Page 9 of Destiny of a King

Tavish listened for a moment. “It sounds as though someone is arguing with the guards.”

“See to it,” Dravic commanded.

Tavish crossed the chamber and opened the heavy door.

Bria stood just beyond it, two guards barring her way while Kaelan shielded her from them.

“Great-grandmother!” Bria called out the moment she saw Wynn. “Are you all right?”

Wynn turned, surprised to hear her worried voice. “I am well, child. Fear not.”

“Let them enter,” Dravic ordered.

At the king’s command, the guards stepped aside at once.

Bria hurried directly to Wynn, Kaelan following at a more measured pace.

Unnoticed by everyone, a tiny golden light slipped through the doorway before the heavy doors closed once again.

“Great-grandmother,” Bria said, taking Wynn’s hands in hers. “When I learned you had been summoned here, I feared…”

“You feared I intended her harm?” Dravic interrupted, his voice sharp.

Bria looked to the king. “I meant no disrespect, my king. I only wished to make certain she was safe.”

Dravic glared at her. “Why would I harm someone who could prove beneficial to my kingdom?”

Bria lowered her head respectfully. “Forgive me, my king. My thoughts ran ahead of reason.”

“As they often do when those we love are involved,” Wynn said gently, resting a reassuring hand over Bria’s.

Bria let out a slow breath before turning her eyes on her great-grandmother. “I feared the worst.”

“There is no need,” Wynn assured her. “Though it appears there soon may be reason enough for all of us to worry.”

Bria’s brow wrinkled.

Wynn briefly explained what the messenger had reported, speaking of the strange symbols appearing beyond the Morvane lands and Lord Oaken’s belief that the clan no longer remained hidden in the deepest reaches of Driochmor.

Bria’s expression grew solemn and she felt a slight catch in her chest, recalling Wynn telling her that a piece of a necklace she’d come by was from the Morvan Clan and it now was with Adira. The piece she had fit into the piece Adira possessed perfectly.

Did she tell the king?

She looked to Wynn and her great-grandmother ever so slightly shook her head. She knew what Bria was thinking, having confided in her, and advised her against saying anything.

Instead, Bria said, “Then I will return to Driochmor with you.”

Kaelan was quick to add, “And I shall see that they arrive safely.”

“Nay,” Dravic snapped.

The single word settled over the chamber like a drawn blade.

Kaelan’s jaw tightened, though he remained silent.

Dravic stepped away from the council table and slowly approached him. “Dar and Elara know Driochmor and Lord Oaken well. They will escort Wynn.” He looked briefly to Bria. “If she wishes to accompany Wynn, she has my leave to do so.” His gaze returned to Kaelan. “You remain in Caerith.”

“Nay.” The refusal came calmly and without hesitation.