“I am sorry, Waterstone, if I have made you feel powerless,” Tarkyn said stiffly. “That has not been my intention. Since that first day, I have tried not to flaunt my power. If you remember, I even gave you permission to hit me at one point.” He ignored the strangled gurgle that emitted from the wizard, “I cannot undo the oath. If it chafes you so badly, I give you permission to leave so that it doesn’t continue to confront you. Others of the woodfolk can protect me.”
Waterstone stared at him, white faced. “Are you ordering me to leave?”
Much to the two antagonists’ surprise, Stormaway intervened, “Now hold it right there. This is getting out of hand. I don’t want either of you to do irreparable damage to what is clearly a strong friendship.” Woodman and prince turned to stare at him. “T
