Return and revelation

The meeting with Yvette was Kael’s last official duty of the day, but he makes sure to revisit the scene of the attempt on his life. The place is swarming with guards now, clearly scouring the area for clues as to how this happened. Those who speak with him are extremely apologetic, but Kael’s initial anger has faded. Anything can go wrong once.

Leaving them to their work, he heads through the palace towards his quarters. Petra remains close by his side, ever vigilant, for which he is grateful. After seeing her capabilities today, Kael is more intrigued than ever by the strange woman, though conversation is still difficult. Her speech is slowly improving, but she still struggles sometimes, which Kael can see is a source of frustration for her. It’s clear that an intelligent mind lurks behind the simple speech.

When they reach the door to Kael’s quarters, he’s about to dismiss Petra when the door flies open, and Evie nearly bowls him over with a hug.

“Master! We heard you got attacked! Are you okay?!”

Steadying himself, Kael returns the hug, giving the petite elf a squeeze. “I’m fine. Petra handled it. Not even a scratch.”

Evie steps back, clearly still a bit distressed. “I’m glad, master. We were worried.”

She turns to Petra. “Thank you for protecting him. We’re all grateful.”

Petra looks like she’s about to respond as Evie reaches out and clasps Petra’s hand. Both women freeze, and Kael can feel the telltale sensation of magic in the air. Evie’s eyes are wide, staring at Petra, who looks slightly panicked. Both women stand, seemingly frozen, staring into each other’s eyes. Hesitantly, Kael puts a hand on Evie’s shoulder, and as soon as he does, she releases Petra’s hand, both of them gasping.

Evie speaks first. “S-sorry, Petra! I lost c-control. I didn’t mean to…”

Petra gives the tiniest shake of her head, and Evie goes quiet, biting her lip nervously. Clearly shaken herself, Petra bows to Kael. “Petra will go. King safe. Petra…will see king tomorrow…”

Kael nods to her, and she hurries off. Kael watches her go before turning to Evie. “What happened there?”

Evie looks at the floor. “I lost control of my power, master. Emotions can do that, sometimes, especially if someone is highly magical. When I touched her, our minds connected. We both had a view of each other’s lives. I saw…a lot.”

Kael looks at her curiously. “Like what?”

Evie shakes her head. “I’d rather not say, master. Please don’t ask me to betray her secrets.”

Kael sighs, then nods. “I suppose. If there was something bad, you’d tell me.”

Evie takes his hand, looking at him with obvious sincerity. “Of course, master! Believe me, there’s no one who could guard you better. But I won’t betray her trust without a good reason.”

Kael smiles. “You don’t need to explain yourself to me. Now, how about we head inside. It’s been a long day.”

Evie nods, leaning against him with a smile. “Yes, master. Maybe I can help you relax a bit…”

Kael laughs, walking inside with the giggling elf.