Her eyes flicked to Claye once more, and she stifled a laugh. His mouth had fallen slack. He looked so worn down that she hoped the ride back to the castle would be longer than the one to Aleburn, allowing him to sleep more. And to offer her more time to explore the text Evera had given her.

With careful hands, she opened the book, the spine whining in protest, and thumbed the worn pages. In the front was a folded piece of paper. She watched Claye closely as she unfolded it, and then read:

Sapphire,

I found this as I helped my mother do our seasonal cleaning. This was my ancestor Linai’s journal. She lived a hundred years after the First War. I know you have your questions regarding the Shadow Witches and the history of it all. I can’t promise answers, but I believe these pages can help you understand the history of this land more, if only so you can be a better queen in the future.

Evera

She began to study the first page. The faded spidery penmanship was hard to read, but she focused. The carriage hit a bump, and Claye’s breathing hitched, causing Sapphire to tuck the book behind her quickly once more. But Claye was lulled back to sleep quickly, and she returned to her reading.

The world continues to evolve each day, it seems. The Canmore crown seemingly carries us further into a new era with each rising of the sun. New fruits, new innovations, new temples. It is an honour to be a part of this world – but one must wonder how long it can last. New Gods seemingly watching our every move, scorned witches existing beyond a barrier made from magic no one can understand.

I cannot be the only one asking … how?

Why?

What comes next?

I cannot be the only one who is questioning the Canmores, the crown, the new world.

And I cannot be the only one wondering what happened to the Shadow Witches.

Can I?

Sapphire was entranced by the words on the page – the musings of a woman who shared her curiosity nearly nine hundred years ago.

The carriage came to a sudden stop. Claye jumped awake with a panicked look, and Sapphire grinned at him.

‘I’d appreciate it if you didn’t mention I –’

Sapphire held up a hand, silencing him.

‘Did you dream?’

He nodded as they exited the carriage.

‘Then I demand you tell me of your dream.’ She took the captain’s hand as she stepped on to the platform, and it rocked slightly under her step. Claye joined her, sitting next to her with worried eyes. ‘And your much-needed sleep is safe with me.’

He smiled as the platform began to move, and told her about his dream.

CHAPTER THIRTEEN

The hour was late, the staff long asleep, and a single candle cast just enough light for her to make out the letters.