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"HOLD!" A WOMAN'S VOICE REACHED her from behind.
"Mother, do not interfere." The king's voice managed to boom in the chamber.
Rasha yanked again, stopping the mermen from swimming off. They made a slow circle and when she turned around, she saw an old mermaid floating at the side of the king.
"I will speak, you tell half-truths to save what is already gone." She waved Rasha forward. "I am Queen Idara, mother to the king. I believe I can help you."
The queen squared her shoulders.
"There is something, however, you must do for me," Queen Idara said.
"Anything."
"You are a courier so I know this is well within your ability. I will show you where to find The Niramaya Tree. It is said not all who cut from the tree do harm. You must be pure of heart, spirit, and motive. You cut for an
