“Long ago, when magic ruled the land, there lived a man and a woman, Torvin Corentine and Sarana Vallentis, who hailed from two of the most powerful bloodlines of all time.” Kiva looked down at her fingers, imagining what it must have felt like to yield such power. “Torvin had the ability to manipulate the human body, and to this day, he’s considered the greatest healer ever known. Sarana could control the four elements—earth, air, water, and fire—a gift no one has possessed in entirety since her death. Together, they were unstoppable, and after being joined as husband and wife, they were a king and queen the likes of whom the world has never seen.”

I wish I had magic.

Kiva closed her eyes as the voice swept across her mind—her voice, years younger. But even so, she couldn’t keep the memory at bay, nor her mother’s quiet response.

I’d rather you wish for brains or loyalty or courage, my sweet girl. Magic is dangerous, and those who have it are forever looking over their shoulders.

That’s just because they’re royal, Kiva had replied. Only people related to Torvin or Sarana have magic these days. That makes them targets.

Kiva shoved the memory deep, deep down, and forced herself back into the present.

“As is the way of humans, those with great power risk succumbing to it,” she said, her eyes on Tipp, who was eating up the story, just as she had as a young child. “While Torvin ruled with integrity and had a heart for his people, using his magic to help all those who sought his healing, Sarana’s power simmered within her, corrupting her from the inside out. She grew resentful toward her husband, jealous of his generosity and the way their subjects responded to his kindness. The darkness in her built until she decided she didn’t want to share her crown anymore. She wanted their kingdom—Evalon—to be hers, and hers alone. So she turned on Torvin, a surprise magical attack that left him badly injured. She then lied to their people and said he attacked her, seeking to overthrow her, seeking to kill her, their beloved queen.”

“What h-happened?” Tipp asked in a hushed whisper.

“The kingdom revolted, demanding Torvin’s head,” Kiva answered. “Without allies or aid, the wounded king had little choice but to flee. He made it deep into the Tanestra Mountains before he could travel no further.”

Tipp gasped. “He died?”