Sapphire forced down the urge to reach out her hand to wipe the vicious smile from Sadara’s face, and Araxia positioned herself between them with a firm step forward.

‘It’s been such a long day, and our family would like some time to gather after so much excitement. The guards will make sure your carriage is waiting out at the front.’ Kip’s face was impassive as he dismissed the group. Sadara’s lips twitched as Tyden tugged at her arm, pulling her towards the exit.

‘Your highnesses,’ he mumbled, dipping in a slight bow as they made their way to the door.

Kaian looked back to meet Sapphire’s eyes one last time, a goofy smile on his face.

‘A pleasure,’ he mouthed, and Sapphire shut her eyes tightly in an effort to not burst out laughing.

Once the doors closed, Sapphire’s anxiety returned. Sadara doubted her enough to make it clear, and she wondered how far the woman would go to uncover whatever she was seeking. The feeling was a heavy weight on her chest.

Time will reveal the Elders’ intentions. Sadara’s words clanged like bells in her ears.

‘How are you feeling?’ Araxia patted her gently on the shoulder.

‘Tired, excited, and in need of a long bath. But I do have a request.’

Kip and Araxia paused, looking at each other for a moment.

‘I’d like to travel to Aleburn – to thank the Viotto family for helping me return to you. I think it is the least I can do after the part they played in my journey.’

The pride in Araxia’s eyes was unmistakable and before Kip could even breathe a word of disapproval, she took Sapphire’s hand and smiled.

‘I think that is a noble idea. I will ensure a carriage is ready for you – but only after training.’

Sapphire mirrored her smile, offering a small bow of her head before excusing herself to her room.

That night, she could not slow her mind. All the day’s events kept replaying, but one memory came to her most often. Kip’s prayer. A prayer to the Elders to uphold the barrier and the magic. The barrier that kept the Shadow Witches away.

Mercy, how powerful must they be, to bring a king to pray for protection?

Sapphire pushed away from the bed, walking over to the windows, too many questions crowding her mind.

What was so detrimental about the witches’ magic?

What if that magic returned?

Would she ever see Ashes again?

The last question grated on her nerves – and she hated how fear of the answer left her feeling hollow. She wanted – no, needed – to get answers, to unravel the mysteries that surrounded her.

She looked back out of the window.