“Except for Johnny?” Koios asked.
“Except for Johnny. He maintains a home here but grew reclusive over the past…decades.”
Ben moved to Cosmo’s side and wrapped an arm over his friend’s shoulder. “Cosmo, it may not have been your friend who did this, but he may be able to help Koios.”
Cosmo nodded. “And that is the reason I will reveal his secrets. I’m trusting you with this information, Ben, and I have never trusted it to another.”
“We won’t betray your trust, Cosmo.”
Cosmo moved from Ben’s side and picked up the pen and notepad they’d been using earlier for research. He scribbled something on it, then ripped off the page and handed it directly to Ben.
“I know that, my friend. You must limit the entourage you bring with you for this visit. A show of force will not be welcome. I will provide an introduction, but you must tread carefully, as I will not be able to offer any further assistance.”
“I understand,” Ben said.
“Garzaxie!”
The hobgoblin popped into existence at Cosmo’s side. Koios’s heart monitor picked up the pace and Ben hurried to his side.
“I’m fine. I wasn’t expecting him to just…appear.”
“Yeah, I’m used to brownie magic.” Ben held Koios’s wrist, but he didn’t check his pulse. No, those stupid perfect fingers stroked over Koios’s knuckles and his stupid heart continued to thump in his chest, although for an entirely different reason.
“Garzaxie, bring Ben a bottle of Beshaba’s Bane.”
Garzaxie’s big eyes widened even more, making him appear like one of those cartoon characters whose eyes pop out of their head.
“Yes, my consort,” Garzaxie said.
But he didn’t disappear.
“Oh, go on,” Cosmo said. “You know Ben. I’m not giving it to just anyone. And yes, you can tattle to Thudlez who will then tattle to my mate, but I will have told my king first, so your efforts will go to waste.”
Garzaxie bowed his head and disappeared again.
“I swear, those two are more overprotective than Nana Jerrick and your Papa combined.”
“Whoa,” Ben said with a laugh. “That’s very overprotective.”
“Tell me about it. Now, don’t open the elixir. Hell, don’t even touch the bottle if you can help it. Wrap it in sturdy linen, and then tie a black ribbon around it. Above all, keep it safe. Johnny Begood will know what it represents, and it should gain you a favor with him.”
“Ben, help me up.”
“What? You shouldn’t?—”
Koios shot him a look.
Ben nodded and pulled the blankets off. Koios had regained a lot of his strength, but he still needed Ben’s help to stand. Once he had his balance, Koios turned to face Cosmo.
He held onto the bed and bowed as low as he was able. “Thank you, King Consort Cosmo. I will forever be in your debt.”
“Aww, Koios. You know better than to say such words to the fae.”
“I do know, Cosmo,” Koios said. “And I know exactly what this favor costs you. My debt is as great as the cost to you.”
Cosmo sighed. “I hope I do not gain an enemy for this, as the valravyns are a ruthless bunch.”
“I will do everything in my power to ensure your favor does not cost you more than it already has.”
