The tent flaps snapped, boots shuffled on the dirt and a bright lantern light flooded the room, casting our shadows onto the ground and the back wall of the tent. Kerrick turned to face the four soldiers who had entered.

“Now,” a voice ordered.

Two soldiers heaved a thick rope net over us. Kerrick staggered with the extra weight and before he could recover, the men rushed him, knocking us to the ground. The struggle lasted mere minutes. Useless and a dead weight, my body hindered Kerrick’s movements just as effectively as the net. They took his sword and then all four men sat on him, pinning him down. Just what I had hoped to avoid.

“All clear,” the same voice called.

The tent flaps parted and Wynn strode in with two more soldiers. “Let’s see who we caught in our Baby Face trap.” She peered at the net in confusion.

“They’re camouflaged,” a soldier said.

“Baby Face, have you learned a new trick?” Wynn asked, even though she knew I couldn’t answer. “No. That’s not a healing power, but a... Kerrick! You lived. Come on and show yourself.”

I waited for him to use his forest magic, imagining the place filling with vines, but nothing happened. Instead, Kerrick dropped the camouflage. Did he have a plan?

“I can’t believe it,” Wynn said, moving closer. “You survived the toxin. Are you a healer now?”

Kerrick refused to answer her.

She pulled a dart from her pocket and held it up. “This is Avry’s next dose, but I’m more than willing to try an experiment. If you’re a healer, you’ll live, if not...” Wynn shrugged.

“I’m not a healer,” Kerrick said in a strained voice.

“Then how did you live?”

“Avry sucked all the toxin out.”

“I’m not sure I believe that. Let’s try anyway.” Wynn bent down to prick Kerrick.

I screamed without sound.

“Wynn, stop,” Sepp said as he entered the tent.

“But don’t you—”

“Yes, I want him dead, but the Skeleton King wants to do the honors. Seems he caused some trouble in Mengels. I’m to freeze him until we rendezvous with our king.” Sepp’s voice sneered over those last words.

Not much love there. Interesting.

Wynn stepped away from Kerrick.

While everyone’s attention had been focused on Sepp and Wynn, Kerrick had tugged at my shirt, exposing my back. He touched my skin and we connected.

Did I hear that right? Are Sepp and Wynn working for the Skeleton King? Kerrick asked.

Yes.

That’s just great. His tone implied otherwise.

Why aren’t you using your magic? I asked.

It’s winter. Too cold.

What does—

How much longer will you be...detached?

No idea. Sorry.

No, Avry, I’m sorry for not getting back—

Hush. You came to rescue me.

Some rescue.

Sepp approached.

Love you with all my heart, Avry.