Page 62 of Kingdom of Spirits
“You aren’t the only spirit wandering this land,” Marius said.
“Enough, you two,” Tahlia said. “Let’s move on. Where to, Trevain?”
He led them onward for a while, the sky’s mist wetting their faces and weighing down wings and Fae limbs.
A large cluster of lush pines stood out among the dark sludge of the valley and rolling hills. Within the first row of trees, a circle had been cleared. A perfect ring of space like an invisible door hung there suspended by unseen forces.
Trevain approached the circle slowly, holding out a hand and indicating everyone should halt. The dragons landed in the rocky area in front of the small forest, mud and algae splashing up their legs and cloaking their talons.
This place feels like being underwater.
“Really? In what way?”
It’s difficult to explain in your tongue. Immersed in that which is not air. Held by forces outside your control.
“Interesting. Do you think the goddess is here?”
I would bet on it.
“Do dragons have a system of gambling?”
No. I was just using phrases you Fae use. Dragons are too wise to risk money on games.
“Right. Of course.” Tahlia smirked up at Lija.
“Is the dragon telling you to hush? Because that is your move here, Mist Knight,” Trevain whispered, raising a chastising eyebrow.
“Yes, Mother,” Tahlia snarked back.
Trevain made a snarling face at her.
“Ragewing believes we should go in first and check the area with Trevain,” Marius said. “Lady Tahlia, you keep watch of Fara, and I will whistle when you should enter.”
“Something about you whistling to get me to come like one calls a dog isn’t making me smile, High Captain.”
He gave her a flat look. “If this was a mission for the order, your comment would be ruled insubordination.”
“I think we’ve established that when you dig up a giant ancient monster, boring rules like that go out the proverbial window.”
He rolled his eyes. “I will shout for you, my lady. Does that please you?”
Trevain and Fara traded a laughing glance.
Lija’s husky laughter floated through Tahlia’s mind. The sound made her grin from ear to ear.
“That will be perfect. Thank you, Marius.”
“I don’t like this lapse in protocol.”
“Go on, now. You can lecture me later.”
Marius growled quietly and rode Ragewing to the edge of the strange cutout circle. Following Trevain’s watery golden light, the Heartsworn lifted each leg carefully, stepping through to the green shadows of the wood.
He is right not to disturb the magical entrance,Lija said.
What would happen if he did?
I’m not certain, but I wouldn’t want us to be nearby when it occurred. Did you realize you just spoke into my mind again?