Page 80 of A Kingdom of Magic and Rain

“Naeven, this is Carric, the owner of this fine establishment,” Finn introduced the barkeep.

“Nice to meet you,” I said in my best Stellian, hoping that my accent didn’t give me away.

“Welcome to the Oak, miss! What can I get ya this evening?”

“Do you even have to ask? Stew and ale, of course,” Finn spoke on my behalf.

“Of course!” Carric exclaimed. “That’s what we’re known for, after all. Coming right up!”

As soon as he left the lord and me alone, I folded my arms over my chest and scowled. “Prey comes to you willingly?!”

Finn flashed a daring smile. “I have a reputation with the ladies. Relax! It’s all in good fun.”

“Relax?! How can I relax?” I whispered in order not to be overheard. “I’m in a foreign land, in a foreign province, far away from the safety of my chambers.” I paused, rubbing the star on my hand under the table as if touching it would bring me comfort. “I’m in a foreign body.”

“Exactly!” Finn whispered back, his eyes gleaming with mischief. “And isn’t there freedom in that? Emelin might not be able to relax, but Naeven can. In fact, I think she has a wild side.”

Before I could reply, Carric returned with a tray of food and drink.

“Here you are!” he announced boisterously as he deposited the stew and ale on the table.

“Thank you kindly!” Finn exclaimed without skipping a beat.

“Enjoy!” The barkeep left us once again.

Finn stared at me from across the table, a challenge in his amber gaze. “Look, I brought you here because I thought that you might enjoy yourself, but if you’re not, I can take you back.”

Emelin might not be able to relax, but Naeven can. I took a breath to calm my nerves. As I did so, the savory aroma of the stew reached my nostrils, and I looked down at the steaming bowl in front of me. When my stomach growled in hungry demand, I gave in and picked up my spoon.

“Wait, it’s hot,” Finn said after I had scooped up some meat and potatoes and brought the spoon to my mouth. He waved his right hand, and a puff of cool air kissed my face, stirring my hair. “Should be good to go.” He smiled.

“Did you just cool my food with your magic?”

“I did.” His smile grew.

I took a bite of the hearty dish, releasing a soft sigh at the delicious flavor.

“It’s good, innit?” he asked, digging into his own meal.

Innit? I studied him for a moment. While his physical features were refined, his manners were less so. He wasn’t uncouth by any means, but he didn’t carry himself with the same poise that most nobles did. Lack of such practiced finesse didn’t diminish his character. On the contrary, it added to his effortless charm. Why had Adrian said that no one trusted Finn? Everyone at the tavern seemed to like him.

“How long have you been a lord?” I asked before taking another bite.

“I became the lord of this beautiful province twenty years ago. The best day of my life.”

“And each province bears the name of the ruling lord?” I recalled the little tidbit of information Thea had provided before.

“Yes, it does, and please don’t start entertaining the idea of changing that tradition. I’m quite fond of seeing my name on the map.”

“I take it you didn’t inherit the title?”

“Sure didn’t. I came from nothing and had to fight for everything I’ve got, but that’s a story for another time. Try the ale. It’s one of the best I’ve ever had.” He reached for his glass and took a generous gulp.

I set the spoon down and moved my drink closer to me. “I’ve never tried ale. I’m more accustomed to wine.”

“Take a sip. I think you’d be surprised at how many things you might like if only you give them a try.” He wiggled his brows, clearly trying to imply something else.

I shook my head in mild disapproval but then picked up the glass and took a sip. The light-copper drink had a rich, fruity flavor with a hint of bitterness. “It’s quite good,” I admitted, though I still preferred wine.