“What’s that?” Rynthea asks around a cheek full of food.
“There is only one in Thelanor, created by an ancient sorceress named Frevella. She lives a short hike from Bernwood, higher in the Alvanite Mountains. She’s been a wonderful ally of mine for quite some time, and had it not been for her, I wouldn’t be able to tell you any of this.”
“What exactly does the sphere do?” Kelrean inquires.
“It guides you, shows you to the safest routes,” his father answers. “It was a valuable resource…until it wasn’t.”
Wait…what doesthatmean?
“If you stand any chance of making it to that island and back,” the king continues, “it can only be accomplished with the Kelvanite Sphere.”
“Is it here with you?” Rynthea probes, scanning him.
“No. It always returns to its creator after use. That is how the true essence of its power is restored.”
“So, we have to make a stop to see this Frevella person first?” Thane asks. I’m glad Thane is able to lose the sarcasm. I suppose even he knows the royals of Bernwood have their limits and shouldn’t be pushed past them.
“That is correct.” The king runs a thick claw over the edge of his goblet, making a light scraping noise. “But be warned, my friends. Though Frevella and I are allies, she will not allow you to have the sphere without a price. And I don’t mean with coin or treasure.”
My chest tightens at that. What could she possibly ask for? Blood? A limb? One of our hearts? I glance at Thane, who doesn’t seem the least bit concerned about King Draedor’s warning.
“We defeated a swamp monster,” he reminds the king. “I’m sure we can handle an elderly sorceress.”
“An arrogant one you are,” King Draedor counters with a chuckle. “It’d be wise not to underestimate Frevella. Besides, she will not see you all without confirmation that I sent you.”
Thane frowns as he looks from the king to Rynthea, who also appears confused.
“My son and two of our finest guards will travel with you up the mountain to see her.” He gives Kelrean’s shoulder a squeeze.
Thane stiffens. Oh,nowhe’s concerned.
“It is truly my honor,” Kelrean declares with a cheery disposition. Then he aims his focus on Thane. “I hope me taking this brief journey with you doesn’t present any issues.”
“Shouldn’t be a problem,” Thane says. Right after the words leave his mouth, I feel something warm skate up my inner thigh and give it a squeeze. I stifle a gasp as I jump in my chair. I look to Thane, but he’s too busy staring down the prince. There is a small challenge in his eyes as his magic hand inches higher up my thigh.
I shove it away, flustered, and the sensation vanishes.
“You all right, Zaira?” Algar murmurs.
“Yeah—I’m fine.” I force a smile at him as I pick up my goblet and take a nervous sip.
Thane clears his throat, finally looking away from the prince to finish off his food.
“Very well!” King Draedor’s voice reverberates through the room as he rises from his chair. I squeeze my eyes shut and wince once again as my ears ring.
Kelrean and the queen stand with him, and we follow suit, raising our goblets as he does.
“Though it pains me to see you all make such a grave decision, I wish you nothing but success on your quest,” the king declares. “We’ll pack food and supplies to last you the duration of your travel up the mountain. Kelrean will direct you straight to Frevella’s cave with a scroll of my consent. And crew?” He assesses each of us with his impenetrable feline gaze. “No matter what happens, guard your heart and protect it at all costs. Because once you make it to The Shallows, your entire life will change. And believe me, it willnotbe for the better.”
Suddenly, the king’s face contorts, transforming into something completely unexpected.
My eyes widen with shock.
Rynthea’s shoulders tense.
Algar hisses through his teeth.
Thane narrows his gaze.
