“You are strengthening muscles you have not used before.” Nian clapped the boy on his shoulder. “You will master this as you have every other spell I’ve taught you. I’m proud of you. Get some rest.”
“Will you be going to sleep?”
“No, I think I’ll go for a walk.”
“Good night, sir.”
Nian smiled warmly at the boy and left so at least Jauer could get some rest. It didn’t matter whether he prowled the grounds or his rooms. Either way, he doubted he would sleep for several hours yet. His body might be tired, but his mind was fresh and needed time to gnaw on the problem of Elainya.
He walked out the main entrance to the castle and passed the guard on the inner gate without being seen. He found himself drawn to the small herb garden he’d tended for many years: Elainya’s garden. He leaned on t
