I tried not to be reminded that my uncle had ultimately been the one to help me perfect my unique abilities during my maturing summers. Instead, I tugged on a stream of magic and wove the thread that would link me to Ree. The connection clicked immediately since I was so practiced in contacting her.
Ree, are you there?I asked quietly.
A slight scratch filled my mind as my magic brushed against her distant consciousness. Magic streamed out of me, passing the distance between us as if we were only a stone’s throw away. But even though I could force my magic into a fairy’s mind, I never did so with Ree. Instead, I waited just on the precipice, asking her for entry.
Seconds ticked by. Morning was always the busiest timefor her, and even though I longed to touch base with her before Whiteolf became a distant speck behind me, I also didn’t want to disturb her if she was making a large sale.
But, not surprisingly, an answering pulse tingled in my mind, and our connection linked completely. The familiar aura of my best friend filled my mind, then her voice sounded within me.
Stars, Prim, I’m so glad you were able to connect so soon! Have you already left? I was hoping to see you off, but Siam was quite fussy this morning, and he’s been clinging to me nonstop. When I tried to pass him off to Bennif, he was having none of it. But at least my dillemsill reached you. I just got your returnmessage.
A smile split my lips.I’m glad the dillemsill already found you, and yes, I’ve already left. I just passed the bridge to the market. I tried to spot you, but I have my carpet moving too fast. And please don’t worry. I kind of figured Siam might be the reason you were unable to visit this morning. Did he keep you up most of the night again?
Her sigh was as clear as her voice in my mind.He did. I managed to get a few hours of rest, but you know how it is when babies are teething.
I laughed softly.I don’t, but I’ll take your word for it.
Her laughter joined mine, and a sense of peace settled within me. Sobering, I added,I’m sorry I’ve been so absent lately. I promise that after I find the Stone and cure my uncle, I’ll be around more. And please give my apologies to Siam. I know I’ve been an awful galaxy-mother lately.
Ree’s mirth filled our connection.I’ll be sure to let my six-month-old know that his galaxy-mother sends her regrets, but don’t you dare say you’re sorry for not being around. I know it’s been crazy for you. The fact that you’re caring for your uncle, and that you traveled to the Isle of Song by yourself last week, would occupy all of anyone’s time.
My guilt lessened at her fierce response.Do you think Siam will forget me while I’m gone?
Doubtful.An edge of worry crept into her tone.You won’t be gone that long, will you? I thought you said it would only be a few weeks.
No, you’re right. My plans haven’t changed. I promised Aunt Gwen I would be back in time if—My throat thickened, and I couldn’t continue.
Ree’s mood dimmed, strumming to me along our connection.I’m so sorry, Prim. I still can’t believe this has happened to Timith. Just take care out there. Be smart and stay away from any fae you get a bad feeling from. You know what the legend warns of about fae hunting the Stone, so make sure you come back in one piece.
I laughed softly.You’re starting to sound like Gwen.
She laughed too.It must be because I’m a mother now. It’s aging me.
My amusement grew.You’re only thirty-three summers.
I feel more like three hundred and thirty-three summers.
I giggled again, and felt thankful for our typical banter. It could always make my darkest days brighter.
Prim, hang on. A customer is here.A moment of silence came from Ree, and I waited patiently and returned my attention to what lay ahead.
My carpet careened through the last of the busy streets. Not too far down the lane, rows of thatched-roof homes waited. The quaint houses in the Armoth District were some of my favorite pieces of architecture. The houses weren’t big or grand—not as the kingdom’s ten Houses were north of the city—but bright colors infused their siding and the Wood had been welcomed into this fold of the capital, even more so than the others. Vines dipped around the home’s corners. Tree branches wove through some windows. Even wildlings had been welcomed, some scampering in and out of the abodes.
I’m back.Ree’s voice abruptly filled my mind again.How’s Timith today?
I snapped my attention away from the streets.The same. Maybe a little worse, but not by much.
I felt her nod even though the movement made no sound.I know I likely can’t do anything for you while you’re gone, but I’m planning to bring over another meal for your aunt tomorrow. And if you think of anything more I can do to help, just reach out. Okay?
I will, but don’t worry, she still has Verin to help her, and we both know how exhausting your life is right now with Siam, so please don’t stress over it.
She sighed.It’s the least I can do, even if I don’t get much sleep these days, because servants and friends are two different things.
My throat grew thick again. Ree’s kindness and constant thought for others were two of the reasons I loved her so much. She’d always been that way, even when she was only nine summers old and we’d met for the first time. As soon as she’d seen me—the new girl in primary school who’d acted so awkwardly since I’d never met other children before—she’d marched right up to me and told me we were going to be the best of friends.
And she hadn’t been lying. I still acutely remembered the intense relief I’d felt when she’d declared that. It was as though she was daring anyone in the classroom to treat me badly, and if they tried, they’d have to deal with her too.
I’d counted her as my best friend ever since even though it’d been so many summers since Ree and I had met. But she’d wormed her way into our family, just like Opalin and Roosep had done. In a way, Ree was the sister I’d never had, and she was like another daughter to my aunt.
