Chapter 2 #2
I nodded understandably. “It’s all right.
” Like my uncle, Roosep also worked for the royals.
“I know his job keeps him busy, but thank you for coming, and tell Roosep I completely understand that he couldn’t be here.
” I squeezed her hand. “I hope it wasn’t too much of a nuisance for you to travel all the way over here at this hour? ”
“Of course not.” Opalin swished her fingers through the air. “I wouldn’t have missed it for the realm.”
I glanced toward the street and its busy traffic, then gave her an apologetic smile. “I know you just got here, but I really should get moving.”
Opalin pulled me into another hug. “I knew you’d be on your way soon, so don’t fret.”
Gwen hugged us too, her thin arms locking around me and Opalin, causing Opalin to laugh. “May the stars, moon, and galaxy bless you, Prim.”
Opalin sobered, and Gwen’s formal goodbye had my throat tightening. All thoughts about the irksome male down our lane, not seeing Ree, and missing Roosep too, vanished. With Gwen and Opalin’s love clouding around me, it was enough to infuse me with joyous purpose.
I hugged them back just as hard. “Thank you.” I pulled away and gripped each of their hands. “I love you both.”
Gwen nodded resolutely, but Opalin had tears in her eyes.
“We love you too, Prim,” Opalin replied.
“Safe travels,” my aunt added, “and don’t forget to check in every night.”
“I won’t. I promise.” I sat on my carpet and whispered a command to it. The enchanted carpet lifted higher beneath my crossed legs, just waiting for my next instruction.
Above, the pale green sky shone even brighter in the early morning sun, and I shielded my eyes to see the street better. I needed a break in the congestion to take off.
Aunt Gwen and Opalin moved back from the curb. Gwenery stood with her chin high, yet her hands were clenched so tightly together that her knuckles turned white.
I double checked the magic around my supplies, spotted an opening in the busy street, then lifted a hand. “Bye.”
My aunt and Opalin lifted their hands in farewell, and with a whispered command, I was off.
I flew through the Coswell District, dipping and weaving around those who were traveling slower.
I moved progressively east, flying in the direction of the Wishing Stone.
When it’d streaked across the sky during the early hours of the morning, just before sunrise, it’d been headed toward the eastern horizon.
It wasn’t much to go off of, but once I reached the Wood and night fell, I would consult my constellation map.
With any luck, what my book from the Isle of Song told me would prove true.
And if not . . . then I would be traveling blind just like everyone else.
Wind streamed across my cheeks, and my enchanted carpet zoomed around everything in its path.
I was flying as high as allowed, which meant I could easily fly over the slower-moving traffic on the streets beneath me, but I wasn’t allowed to crest the buildings.
That privilege was only reserved for royalty.
When I passed the stone bridge leading to the Valehill Market—where Ree worked—I looked for a flash of red hair on the other side.
My shoulders slumped. My carpet was moving too quickly, and I was unable to find my best friend in the long lane that led all the way to the capital’s center.
Already, hundreds of fae were present, buying supplies and goods for the day.
When the market and bridge disappeared behind me, a twinge of regret filled me.
Even though we exchanged dillemsills, I should tell her goodbye mentally.
I knew Ree would appreciate the gesture, especially since she’d asked me to connect with her as soon as possible. She was likely feeling guilty that she hadn’t been able to see me in the flesh.
Linking consciousnesses with another fairy had taken me many summers to master. Mental projection was a rare skill that few fae with Mistvale magic held, even though my other hidden magic was even rarer.
I tried not to be reminded that my uncle had ultimately been the one to help me perfect my unique abilities during my maturing summers.
Instead, I tugged on a stream of magic and wove the thread that would link me to Ree.
The connection clicked immediately since I was so practiced in contacting her.
Ree, are you there? I asked quietly.
A slight scratch filled my mind as my magic brushed against her distant consciousness.
Magic streamed out of me, passing the distance between us as if we were only a stone’s throw away.
But even though I could force my magic into a fairy’s mind, I never did so with Ree.
Instead, I waited just on the precipice, asking her for entry.
Seconds ticked by. Morning was always the busiest time for her, and even though I longed to touch base with her before Whiteolf became a distant speck behind me, I also didn’t want to disturb her if she was making a large sale.
But, not surprisingly, an answering pulse tingled in my mind, and our connection linked completely. The familiar aura of my best friend filled my mind, then her voice sounded within me.
Stars, Prim, I’m so glad you were able to connect so soon!
Have you already left? I was hoping to see you off, but Siam was quite fussy this morning, and he’s been clinging to me nonstop.
When I tried to pass him off to Bennif, he was having none of it.
But at least my dillemsill reached you. I just got your return message.
A smile split my lips. I’m glad the dillemsill already found you, and yes, I’ve already left.
I just passed the bridge to the market. I tried to spot you, but I have my carpet moving too fast. And please don’t worry.
I kind of figured Siam might be the reason you were unable to visit this morning.
Did he keep you up most of the night again?
Her sigh was as clear as her voice in my mind. He did. I managed to get a few hours of rest, but you know how it is when babies are teething.
I laughed softly. I don’t, but I’ll take your word for it.
Her laughter joined mine, and a sense of peace settled within me. Sobering, I added, I’m sorry I’ve been so absent lately. I promise that after I find the Stone and cure my uncle, I’ll be around more. And please give my apologies to Siam. I know I’ve been an awful galaxy-mother lately.
Ree’s mirth filled our connection. I’ll be sure to let my six-month-old know that his galaxy-mother sends her regrets, but don’t you dare say you’re sorry for not being around.
I know it’s been crazy for you. The fact that you’re caring for your uncle, and that you traveled to the Isle of Song by yourself last week, would occupy all of anyone’s time.
My guilt lessened at her fierce response. Do you think Siam will forget me while I’m gone?
Doubtful. An edge of worry crept into her tone. You won’t be gone that long, will you? I thought you said it would only be a few weeks.
No, you’re right. My plans haven’t changed. I promised Aunt Gwen I would be back in time if— My throat thickened, and I couldn’t continue.
Ree’s mood dimmed, strumming to me along our connection.
I’m so sorry, Prim. I still can’t believe this has happened to Timith.
Just take care out there. Be smart and stay away from any fae you get a bad feeling from.
You know what the legend warns of about fae hunting the Stone, so make sure you come back in one piece.
I laughed softly. You’re starting to sound like Gwen.
She laughed too. It must be because I’m a mother now. It’s aging me.
My amusement grew. You’re only thirty-three summers.
I feel more like three hundred and thirty-three summers.
I giggled again, and felt thankful for our typical banter. It could always make my darkest days brighter.
Prim, hang on. A customer is here. A moment of silence came from Ree, and I waited patiently and returned my attention to what lay ahead.
My carpet careened through the last of the busy streets.
Not too far down the lane, rows of thatched-roof homes waited.
The quaint houses in the Armoth District were some of my favorite pieces of architecture.
The houses weren’t big or grand—not as the kingdom’s ten Houses were north of the city—but bright colors infused their siding and the Wood had been welcomed into this fold of the capital, even more so than the others.
Vines dipped around the home’s corners. Tree branches wove through some windows.
Even wildlings had been welcomed, some scampering in and out of the abodes.
I’m back. Ree’s voice abruptly filled my mind again. How’s Timith today?
I snapped my attention away from the streets. The same. Maybe a little worse, but not by much.
I felt her nod even though the movement made no sound. I know I likely can’t do anything for you while you’re gone, but I’m planning to bring over another meal for your aunt tomorrow. And if you think of anything more I can do to help, just reach out. Okay?
I will, but don’t worry, she still has Verin to help her, and we both know how exhausting your life is right now with Siam, so please don’t stress over it.
She sighed. It’s the least I can do, even if I don’t get much sleep these days, because servants and friends are two different things.
My throat grew thick again. Ree’s kindness and constant thought for others were two of the reasons I loved her so much.
She’d always been that way, even when she was only nine summers old and we’d met for the first time.
As soon as she’d seen me—the new girl in primary school who’d acted so awkwardly since I’d never met other children before—she’d marched right up to me and told me we were going to be the best of friends.
And she hadn’t been lying. I still acutely remembered the intense relief I’d felt when she’d declared that. It was as though she was daring anyone in the classroom to treat me badly, and if they tried, they’d have to deal with her too.
I’d counted her as my best friend ever since even though it’d been so many summers since Ree and I had met. But she’d wormed her way into our family, just like Opalin and Roosep had done. In a way, Ree was the sister I’d never had, and she was like another daughter to my aunt.
Thank you for everything, Ree.
I felt her nod again, and then she added, I’m always here for you all, you know that. And I mean it, Prim. Stay safe, and may the gods, moons, and galaxy bless you on your search.
I mentally blew her a kiss. Give my best to Siam and Bennif. I’ll be in touch when I can.
We murmured a quick goodbye, and I closed our connection.
The second I was alone in my head, I sent thanks to the gods and goddesses for imbuing me with such strong magic that allowed me to link mentally with others. And remembering how strong and capable I was caused a smile to spread across my lips.
Optimism flared through me anew. I could do this. I would find the Stone.
I settled back in for the remainder of the ride out of the capital.
I itched to get to the open Wood so I could move faster.
Already, signs of the impending forest were visible.
The Armoth District was falling behind me, and even more vines and leaves wove around the upcoming streets and architecture.
When I spotted a family of spillins peering out at me from a hollow in a babbo tree, my smile grew even wider. The mother wildling blinked at me, and I raised a hand in greeting, but then a male fairy called from behind me, “Prim! Why the hurry?”
And just like that . . . my smile disappeared.