THE HANDMAIDEN

Mika was waiting in the forest at the slope of the hill for Dija to return. The cat eye did, running through the forest at speeds far faster than any human could perform, and faster than most with magic could as well.

Her heart jumped.

“Did you find her?”

Dija came to a stop, breathing hard, or what passed for breathing hard with her race. “I have,” she said. “Are the knights ready?”

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“They already left not long ago.”

Dija narrowed her large yellow eyes. “And the mage?”

“He’s preparing to go after her with the help of Hiun’s magic.”

Dija walked past Mika. “Then I’m going with them.”

She could have done more. She could have fought like Dija had. Instead she had been shunted aside like a doll that didn’t want to be played with anymore. It’s my fault she was taken. I can’t let them get away.

Mika clenched her fists as she turned to follow Dija. “I’m coming with you.”

The older woman made a sound of acknowledgement. Normally she would be more protective of Mika, even if usually in an overbearing motherly way, but now their princess was in danger, and she needed all the help she could get.