TWELVE
My pulse comes in short, erratic bursts. I breathe in the crisp night air, hoping to cool the fever in my mind, the swirling, disorienting fear that holds me captive.
“Elanor.” The king calls out my name softly, his shadow appearing at the doorway between the rooms. Against my protestations, Adom and Siles moved me to the king’s antechamber. They claim it’s more secure, away from prying eyes. A servant leaving the king’s chambers under such circumstances was sure to draw attention.
He edges closer. A ray of moonlight casts an eerie glow on his countenance. “It’s time for me to leave. With Adom gone in search of Muuth, I’m the only one left to guard the countryside. I’ve asked Patience to watch over you tonight. She should be here momentarily.”
Pain in my upper abdomen evolves in
