She looked up at the sky, then concentrated on the world around her. It was so easy now. She drew magic and moved herself upward.

Cold wind ruffled her hair. A few strands, wet from a quick wash in a basin of water, chilled her neck. She dried them with magic. Rising higher, she saw lights in the distance. The army camp.

Were there more lights than usual, or was she imagining it?

Drawing more magic, she created a shield to protect her body from the wind and sent herself speeding toward the camp. It did not take long before her suspicions were confirmed. She could see lines of torches moving through the tents. At the point where the line fragmented, near the edge of the camp, she could make out tents being erected.

Newcomers. This must be the Toren army.

As she drew closer she saw four pale figures standing outside the war-council tent. Facing them was a small crowd, lamplight reflecting from an abundance of polished metal and shining cloth. Nobles and other important personages, she guessed. One figure stood a few steps in front of the rest.

Berro. The Toren king. Why didn’t Juran call me when they first arrived?

She hovered above the gathering. The sound of the king’s voice drifted up to her. Deciding it would be rude to interrupt, she sent Juran a quiet communication.

:Juran? Should I join you?

He made a small, surprised movement, then glanced upward.

:Yes, he replied. When I indicate.

She heard him say something. Then he made a small beckoning gesture. She dropped down and landed beside Mairae.

The king turned to stare at her in astonishment. He looked up at the sky, as if expecting to find she had jumped from some structure, then at her again.

“Auraya,” Juran said. “I believe you met King Berro just after your Choosing?”

“Yes,” she said. “A pleasure to meet you again, your majesty.”

The king drew in a deep breath and appeared to gather his wits.

“It is an honor to see you again, Auraya of the White. You have settled into your new position with impressive speed and confidence. I had heard of your Gift of flight, but did not quite believe it until now.”

She smiled and made the sign of the circle. “The gods give us what we need in order to do their bidding.”

His gaze flickered, and she was pleased to see his thoughts turn to the Siyee. By pointing out that the gods had given her the Gift of flight, she had hinted they had done so in order that she might convince the Siyee to become the White’s allies. Hopefully he would think twice about contesting the removal of Toren settlers from Siyee lands. No monarch dared to defy the gods.