Even though Emry had never seen her before, she knew immediately it was the Lady of the Lake. And so, apparently, did Arthur.

“My Lady,” he said, sinking into a bow the moment he stepped ashore.

Emry bowed as well, having a bad feeling about this. Surely this sorceress would see through her disguise?

“I expected you sooner, Arthur Pendragon,” said the Lady. Her voice dripped like honey, sweet and golden and wonderful. “And I see you have not come alone. The wizard suits you.”

Emry straightened, staring at the Lady in surprise. But the Lady merely smiled back at her, although those mist-gray eyes seemed to convey a warning.

“Thank you, my Lady,” Arthur said, his manners more formal than Emry had ever seen them. She watched as he stepped forward and took the Lady’s hand. He knelt, bringing her hand to his lips. He seemed very much like a prince here, on this strange isle in the swirling mist, and not at all like the annoyed boy from the castle library.

“The great and powerful Merlin,” the Lady went on, looking back and forth between them. “This was foretold. You have a destiny—both of you. You will be a great king with this wizard by your side.”

Emry frowned. Surely the Lady knew that she was a girl? That Arthur had the wrong twin?

“Nothing would bring me more joy,” Arthur said, his head bowed. “But my Lady, I came here with a sword. And that sword is now lost at the bottom of the lake.”

“Then you have done your duty. You brought the sword home,” she explained. “It was never meant to remain yours. It was only proof of your destiny for those who would demand such a thing.”

“Is that why the sword wasn’t magic?” Emry asked, forgetting herself. “Only enchanted?”

The Lady nodded. “You are clever, wizard,” she said. “And cleverer still that you did not give chase to the sword. What the lake takes as payment for safe passage is beyond my control.”

Emry shot Arthur a smug look, implying that she’d known it was a bad idea to jump in. Arthur rolled his eyes in return.

“Come,” said the Lady, beckoning for them to follow her up the shore. “We will find you another sword, Arthur Pendragon. A better sword.” She cut a knowing look at Arthur. “One day soon, you will usher in a golden age of peace and tolerance. An era of great learning and great understanding.”

“But how will I?” Arthur pressed.

The Lady merely smiled. Then she held out her hand. “And you, child of the wizard Merlin,” she said, her eyes boring into Emry’s, as if to say, I have chosen my words carefully.

I’m sorry for deceiving you, Emry thought.

I am not deceived, the Lady’s voice said inside Emry’s head, as clearly as if she’d spoken aloud. Your truth is not mine to tell.