The people of Thayaria are known to be powerful plant channelers. While the ability exists outside of Thayaria, nowhere else has such a large population, and most of the notable plant channelers throughout history have been Thayarian. Magical historians and philosophers alike agree that Thayarians’ affinity for plant channeling stems from the numerous leylines that cover the kingdom. Plant channelers are best known for their ability to coax the landscape to their will, though their control over the plants around them take many by surprise as they find themselves ensnared in a trap of vines.

A Brief History of Modern Thayaria

“What the hell are you doing?” Laurel asks sharply once we’re secluded. “I will not allow that bastard’s son into my kingdom!” The room practically shakes with her power.

“El, listen to me,” I say with my calmest voice, attempting to deescalate the situation before she blasts me with her power. “We can gain access to the archives, can ask for better thayar prices. You don’t even have to interact with the Prince, just relegate him to the Council and give him busy work.”

“And who would we even send?” Laurel spits out. She’s lethal. I’ve never seen her this angry, especially not with me. I pause, knowing what her reaction will be when I reveal the plan I came up with the moment Mazus threw out this insane proposal.

“Me.” I keep my eyes locked on Laurel’s. She physically convulses for just a moment, so quick that few would catch it. Then she locks down her emotions in the vault she’s too practiced at using. The Queen emerges, and she dons a mask of cool indifference that I hate seeing. “I know you don’t trust him. I don’t trust him either. I know this is some farce and that we haven’t yet determined the game he’s playing. But we have to put our best pieces on the board and play the game. And I’m our best piece,” I say, squaring my shoulders and keeping my eyes on hers. “If he agrees to give me access to the archives, I might finally find information that can help us.”

“You know as well as I that he’ll hide any books that are of relevance to us,” she says dryly.