-So it's him then? - asked Odar, peeking over his shoulder, trying to assess the amulet himself.

-Looks like it. Free him.

For the final time, he approached and released me completely from the rest of the vines.

-Thank you - I finally managed to say.

-I am terribly sorry, but I hope you understand our predicament… it's not often we find ourselves in predicament like this…

-Somewhat… And I would like that to be returned if possible.

I noticed that Odar was about to protest, but got interrupted by the king.

-Of course. Here.

-I don't think… - he started, but it was already too late, I already had it handed to me back.

-Thank you. I'd be problematic if I was to lose that.

-Of course, of course. Let me ask though, what someone of your position was doing there?

-I could ask the same thing of you… or rather your, er, envoy? I am not very familiar with borders and all, is that place under your government as well? Or…

Before I was able to finish my question, Odar spoke up, interrupting.

-While I am aware of your standing, I'd recommend that you watch your tongue. I'd like to remind you that it's the monarch that you're talking to.

His voice was calm, but firm. He genuinely meant that as a warning, but to be honest, it sounded more like a threat.

-Calm down - the king stopped him. - If I wanted to be addressed with honorifics I'd have called you to the throne room, not come here.

-As you wish. I just was reminding him of the situation he's in.

-I know, I know. You are right, that island is far out and away from my domain, but that does not mean I cannot send my people there. As far as the borders are concerned, it does not belong to anyone. The closest to the owner is Melle herself.

-That's an interesting way to look at things - I said under my breath. - Speaking of. What happened to her? In the… encounter earlier I was…

-Yes, I know. While your encounter was, well, unfortunate, for the lack of a better word, I can assure that she is safe and sound.

I hesitated for a second, but since my situation was a lot better than expected, as was the mood and character of the local ruler, I continued anyway, deciding to be bold, testing my luck a bit.

-Strange way to say "imprisoned". As am I, I assume? What do you want from me?

-Imprisoned? Gods, no! Why would I ever! While your… invitation here was a bit sudden, we already confirmed who you work under - he pointed at my neck - and as I am concerned, you are a free man. You can walk out even now if you so wish, although I'd please ask you to at least let us finish talking…

-Okay, but what about the woman? I assume you sort of need her, I do too.

-What do you mean, you need her?

-Well, not exactly her, but she has something I need. Judging from the recent events I feel like you won't just let me see her…

-Why wouldn't we?

-I know our meeting was far from pleasant, but… - muttered Odar.

-Far from pleasant? - I laughed at him. - You attacked and captured both of us. Yeah. Far from pleasant.

-That's just your fault - Odar perked up suddenly. - What else I was supposed to do, let you burn the forest down and all of us with it? Or just let her capture me for change? We need…

The king gestured at him, silencing him.

-Out fault? - he started making me angry. - First of all, you think I am that stupid and just started torching everything in sight?

-Who knows, your people…

I did not let him finish the sentence.

-Second of all, you kidnapped a kid! And destroyed the place to boot. And now you have the nerve to complain that someone retaliated!

-That's not…

The king silenced him once more.

-How do you know that? - he asked, stone faced.

-How? We both saw the aftermath. I got to hand it to you, your timing was perfect. An hour later or earlier and you'd not get off that easy with both of us present.

-What are you talking about? - said the king, suddenly intrigued.

-Your people forgot to mention that? - I looked at Odar, but he did not even flinch. - First of all, you, sorry, your people absolutely turned the place upside down during your search last time. Yeah, yeah, you had to be quick and all but don't you think…

Odar was about to say something again, but the king interrupted us both.

-I am aware of this one. While unfortunate, it's hardly an "aftermath". From the way you are speaking I thought something was destroyed or…

I couldn't help but cough loudly, trying to mask my laugh.

-No, no. Not until the last time that is. While I didn't see much thanks to the efforts of this man - I gestured towards Odar - I am pretty sure that at least one wall was broken during their scuffle.

I expected him to get angry at him for not disclosing this information, or, if he actually mentioned it, a stone faced reply, but I got neither. Instead, he looked visibly disappointed and distraught.

-Thank you for bringing this issue to me. While this is saddening, it's already done and I cannot do anything about it, but I assure you, the destruction was not my intent, nor was it for my people.

I gazed towards Odar, but he did not react.

-Let me get back on topic - he shuffled in his chair. - I know it’s rich coming from me after what happened, but actually I have a request to make.

-And what a king might want from me? - I asked, a bit surprised. - I'm not even sure if I am one of your subjects… I'm just a random wanderer. Nor like I can refuse anyway - I added under my breath.

-Don't downplay your own worth. You being my subject or not is up to the debate, and that's why I am saying it's a request. And of course you can refuse, I am not a tyrant.

-I'm listening.

I obviously did not believe the last part, but I was not going to say that out loud.

-You forget what you saw and heard today. Here, as well as during your… encounter.

Oh great. I'm to be a part of some conspiracy now.

-That sounds more like a demand. What if I refuse?

-Sadly, nothing. I have no power over you. I tried talking with your leader before, but, as you heard, she just sent a quick message.

I personally doubted that he'd just leave it at that, considering that he was not below ordering kidnapping.

-Well then, king… - I started after a minute of silence. - Under some different circumstances, I might have agreed, but…

-Just let me add - he interrupted - you don't have to sign deals with me or my men of any kind. The word of mouth is enough for me. I trust your guild.

-No, that is not the issue here - I said, scratching my chin. - As a matter of fact, I wouldn't really mind that, but since it's not needed, even better.

-What's the issue then?

-The person in your "custody".

-I will not be releasing her. Neither of them - he replied instantly.

If I ever doubted that he was the one that ordered the kidnapping, that would clear any misunderstandings.

-If I may, why are you so interested in them in the first place? - I asked, curious. - I am not aware of local politics, but ordering kidnapping definitely doesn't put anyone in a good light….

-While I understand your curiosity - he started after considering something for a while - that is not something I am willing to discuss. You might boast a high rank in Red Edge, but there are always matters above your rank, be it a king or no.

I'd be surprised if he told me, to be honest.

-That is slightly problematic. While I might not be particularly invested in the fate of those two, someone else might be…

-Was that a threat?

He was still calm, but behind him I saw Odar shift angrily.

-No no no no, I do not have a death wish - I raised my hand in a gesture of surrender. - What I am saying is that I was on, for lack of a better word, a mission along with that woman.

-I am afraid you need to continue alone - the king said, unmoved.

-That is what I am intending on, but there is a problem. Along with her, our baggage was taken, and I need that.

The story has been illicitly taken; should you find it on Amazon, report the infringement.

-Oh, that's it? - he legitimately looked surprised. - No problem. Since it's yours I don't think anyone will have an issue with that.

Not like he cared about her opinion.

-There is also another issue… but I think that's easier to accommodate…

-Ask away.

-I need transport.

-No issue as well. I am sure you can find someone in the city that will give you a lift.

He sounded a bit annoyed that I am asking for such a mundane thing.

-I am afraid it won't work. If I can be honest, before we were interrupted by… certain events, we were about to go back to Red Edge. And as I assume you are aware, that is not a place that you can get to that easily…

He frowned, but almost instantly, Odar spoke up for him.

-If I may, I can just…

He raised his hand to silence him.

-I know you can. But I cannot just send you on another exhausting mission without rest. Even if it's you.

-I am flattered that you are so worried about me, but I am more than fine. Another spell or two won't make a difference.

-I know, but…

He started scratching his chin.

-Fine. If you are so sure, you can go - he said and turned to me. - Does that mean that you agree?

-To what exactly? You've been a bit vague in that department.

-The only thing I want from you is to forget what you have seen and heard today. That is it.

Honestly, I was surprised that he was so accommodating, especially after asking just for such a minor favor.

-That’s a bit low price for getting a free teleportation, I feel like.

-Think what you will, that’s what I need.

I shrugged.

-Sure. Okay, I agree.

Both of them visibly relaxed.

-Great. Odar, go get ready. Get his things while you’re at it.

-Are you certain I can leave you alone with him?

The king laughed.

-Please. You should know better. I’ll be fine.

-As you wish.

He bowed slightly and left the room.

For a minute, we sat there both in silence.

-You are a strange person - the king finally said, breaking the silence.

-I am what I am - I shrugged, not sure what to make of that sentence, nor how to exactly act, being alone with a ruler.

-Not many can keep their heads straight in my presence.

-Thank you? If I am to be honest, I am not sure how I am supposed to act… Amazingly, I never had an opportunity to talk to someone in power… directly to boot…

-That’s good - he smiled. - I don’t need any more boot lickers. Nor spies…

The door opened again. Odar was back, with a familiar-looking bag in hand. He was rather quick.

-Everything is ready.

-Good - the king raised from his chair. - Off you go.

I stood up, stretching. After all this, I felt like my bones were starting to stagnate…

-The room next door has the spell prepared. Come with me.

I nodded, and was about to follow him, but I decided I need to mention one more thing.

-I do not know what exactly is going on here, nor do I think I especially want to know…

I looked directly at the king.

-I intend to comply with your request for as long as I feel it’s necessary, but you should know that it will not be for that long…

-What does that supposed to mean? - he asked, indifferent.

-I mean that there are people connected to that woman that will want her back, let’s say, “on her own and available”. I am not sure how they are going to react to recent events, and even if I am to be silent, they will definitely know.

-Mind your manners - Odar said, a bit offended I feel like.

Well, I was pretty casual talking to his liege, so I can’t blame him for that.

-There is no person that has more power and influence on this continent. It’s not your business to worry for someone you have no interest in.

-He is right. Whoever it is, I am sure I will manage.

I shrugged.

-I just wanted to warn you, that’s all. I do not intend to interfere, that is unless I won’t have a choice in the matter.

-I think I understand. Thank you for the warning.

He nodded and gestured towards me to leave the room.

Without much of a choice, I complied, and followed Odar outside.

I am not sure if he really understood, and, to be honest, I was not even sure what exactly I meant by what I said. It left me sort of puzzled, why did I even care about that woman and the kid in the first place?

I didn’t really question that before and just went with it, I guess. Empathy? Maybe. It was hard to tell, but something felt off, although I couldn’t tell what.

I did not have time to think about that though, because my escort opened the door and was urging me to follow him inside.

I wasn’t paying attention before, but when we left the room, or rather the cell, the corridor we entered was completely dark. The only source of light was a small piece of a crystal that Odar had tied to his wrist, like a bracelet. To not be left in the dark, I followed him inside, to yet another cell, although this one was even more barren.

There was no furniture to speak of, nor the light source, but as soon as the door closed behind me, I heard him activate some kind of spell.

The room got illuminated by two crystals on either side of the door behind me, letting me see the readied spell circle on the floor, drawn in what I assume was chalk, mixed with some kind of glittering dust. It looked a bit different than the one Melle used. It was completely white, both chalk and the dust, the former being a lot more prominent. No wonder. Most likely the materials were not cheap, so Odar having more to spend was not surprising.

-Do you have all that you need? - he asked.

-Yes. Do you? I can’t see the anchor…

-I do… - he looked a bit surprised that I knew about that.

Strange if you ask me, is this knowledge really that secret or something?

-Let’s go then. I still have things to do, and the faster the better…

He nodded, pulled out a small book from somewhere, opened it and started focusing on the circle.

I wanted to take a peek at the contents, but before I was able to even read a single word, the whole page suddenly burst into flames. He then casually ripped the page out, placing it in the middle of the circle.

As soon as the paper touched the ground, it distorted and a small opening formed in the air, slowly changing shape to a familiar one - a circular portal, hanging in the air.

-I am impressed - I said, inspecting the new hole in reality from afar. - This is the best looking portal I’ve seen so far.

-What do you mean by “best looking”? - he asked, gesturing for me to move.

-So far the ones I’ve used were… a lot less stable. Hope it’s as good as it looks.

He wanted to answer something, but I didn’t wait, instead just stepped into it.

The feeling was as weird as usual. The only thing lacking was the shift of dimensions, but that was a plus in my book. A second of magically caused confusion later, I found myself standing next to a familiar bookcase, with a spear pointed right at my chest.

-Whoah there, it’s me.

I was about to pull out the necklace, but for naught. The guard recognized me, it probably was one of the people that saw me leave.

-Oh! It’s you sir! I didn’t know that you…

-I thought someone sent…well, it doesn't matter. You should probably…

Before I finished the sentence, from the portal behind me sprung Odar.

I wanted to stand in front of him, so the guard wouldn't point his weapon at him as well, but to my surprise, he backed off, and instead saluted.

-Sir.

-Stand down. I am on business with your master.

I did not question him, instead nodded and gestured for him to follow me outside.

-Mind explaining that? - I asked, walking down the corridor, towards the tower where For’s room was.

-It’s not the first time I visited here. People here know who I am.

-Yeah, I kind of figured that out when he saluted, but never mind that. Why are you here in the first place?

-Oh. Nothing that involves you directly, I just need to pass a message to For.

-Uh-uh…

-And what about you, don’t you need to deliver this bag somewhere or something like that?

-Yes.

-So do that.

-I am.

He looked at me, puzzled.

-Look, I am going to be blunt here - he said after a moment of thought. - I need to talk to her alone.

-What a coincidence. So do I. I guess we can do it together.

-What part of “alone” you don’t get?

I sighed.

-Listen. I understand, but I have a feeling that, since you’ve not exactly been invited here, you’ll have to wait.

-That’s besides the point.

-Maybe. In any case, I’ll just take a minute. I can introduce you or…

-She very well knows who I am.

-Riight. You mentioned that - I picked up the topic. - Out of curiosity, personally, or just business-wise?

He looked at me, considering something.

-Both. If you need to know, I worked with her family for a while. By the way, is he around today?

-Who?

-Jacob. I thought you worked under him?

-Ah, yeah, I do. And I am not sure, I don’t think he’s available today.

-Shame. Oh, we’re here.

Before I was able to answer, he knocked at the door.

At first there was no answer, but a minute later we could hear some movement behind the door and a muffled voice.

-I said I don’t want to be disturbed today.

She still sounded hungover. Odar noticed that, because his eyes suddenly opened wider than I thought it was possible.

-I sorry to come unannounced, but I have a word from the king.

In return, there was a loud noise behind the door, and I think I also heard glass breaking, along with some cursing.

-And I am here too… - I added.

Another noise. This time both of us definitely heard some glass breaking.

-Are you alright in there? - Odar asked, sounding genuinely concerned.

-Yes, yes - she suddenly sounded a lot more sober. - I just did not expect to hear either of you right now.

The door opened slightly, to the point where she was able to peek out without us being able to see inside. She still looked like the effects of the “therapy” were still lingering.

-What happened?

-Quite a bit - I replied, before he was able to open his mouth. - I have completed my task and I am here as requested.

-Yeah, I figured. You’re alone?

-No? Mr. Odar is here?

-I kn… never mind. Why are you here, Odar?

-During this “task” of yours, whatever that might be, he’s had an unfortunate occasion to get involved with some business involving the king. While it’s been mostly resolved, I’ve been tasked to report everything to you, and confirm a few things, as well as to pass a message.

So it was about me. Go figure.

-Uh-uh… I assume that’s going to take a while.

-Quite.

-Do you mind waiting for a minute? The business with him - she pointed at me - is definitely going to be faster than yours.

He first looked at me, like he was judging me, then at her, intently, but nodded.

-Okay. I’m going to be waiting in the guest room.

He was about to leave, but she stopped him instantly.

-Actually, the guest room is unavailable right now. Can you wait in the library?

He looked at me intrigued.

-You have guests that are more important than me?

-No, no! - she quickly denied - It’s just not prepared.

He definitely was suspicious, but decided not to pry.

-Fine. I’ll be waiting.

-Thank you. I’ll send someone as soon as we’re done.