Page 44 of A Kingdom so Crimson

My throat tightened uncomfortably at her praise and realization of how much everyone seemed to know about my pastandthe King's Match, especially considering I had only recently learned of it. Granted, Jesri had kept most things from me to show dominance.

"Thank you, Elise," I murmured, the gravity of her words settling heavily on my shoulders. Saasha gave me a wink. It was the same knowing wink she had left me with after helping me following the Miehja attack, a silent gesture of support. My heart filled with warmth at their kindness.

We heard footsteps descend the spiral stone staircase, and we all turned to see who approached.

"Lady Eliah?" the tall, rosy-cheeked footman called from the bottom of the stairs. "You have a letter."

Glancing at the girls, I noticed Elise's bright smile and flushed cheeks as she looked at the footman. With a suppressed smile, I approached him, feeling joy at seeing Elise's fondness for him. He extended the letter, and as soon as I saw Calum's handwriting, a rush of longing swept over me. I snatched the letter away, surprised by my yearning to hear from him.

"Thank you."

The footman nodded before turning his attention to Elise and Saasha. "Afternoon, ladies," he greeted, prompting Saasha to continue cleaning while Elise waved.

"Afternoon, Aveal," Elise responded, her cheeks mirroring the rosy hue of Saasha's apple.

Suppressing a grin, I addressed them both. "I'll see you both at dinner?" I confirmed, receiving enthusiastic nods from the pair.

With that, I slipped past Aveal and hurried up the stairs, clenching the letter tightly.

Once upstairs, I hesitated at the main floor, feeling that Kaizen might be with Levon in his study, and I didn't want to run into him headed to my room, so I decided to go back to the library instead.

As I entered, Madame Hannel was engrossed in her paperwork, hardly noticing my arrival. I made my way to my usual corner, settling into the velvety red chair next to the stack of books I had been perusing during my stay.

I quickly tore the letter open.

My dearest Eliah,

Forgive my delayed correspondence. Uncle has tasked me with numerous responsibilities that once fell upon your capable shoulders, and I cannot help but feel remorse for not sharing the burden with you sooner. I deeply regret not being the friend you deserved, and I offer my sincerest apologies.

As I read Calum's formal words, I couldn't help but stifle a laugh. His attempts at formality were endearing, though transparent with his silly games that I somehow found myself missing. I shook the thoughts away and kept reading.

I must confess, I did not anticipate the profound sense of solitude that would accompany me each morning without seeing your face, no matter how cunning your demeanor may have been.

Stop the eye-rolling.

I did stop mid-motion.

I trust your time with Sir Alder proves less demanding than living here. I hope you are seizing the opportunity to explore the world while you still have the chance.

I've been researching on my own since Uncle won't tell me anything and I've stumbled upon further information regarding the evil Magics—details I believe you would find intriguing.

Supposedly, they were part of the Magics that went rogue, wanting something more for their lives since they knew they would wither away with King Leonard and his savage war.

Fable says that they went to live within the Adauntas Mountains, where even the mountains began bowing to them—whatever that means.

I have already said too much in a letter. I hope you'll burn it like that book that might have given us more details.

Aoife told me to give you her most profound love.

I miss you, Eliah.

Cal

My heart swelled as I read his words, realizing how much I missed him. Memories of our time together, nestled beneath that wicked, faulty wish tree, flooded my mind. Despite my attempts to suppress them, those childish yearnings lingered.

Shifting my focus to the Spellcasters, I couldn't help but wonder how Calum managed to gather information on them. Perhaps it wouldn't hurt to ask Levon if he had any insights if he wouldn't punish me for asking due to its illegality. However, the excitement I felt moments ago was quickly overshadowed by regret and despair, knowing Iwouldn't obtain more knowledge.

I stuffed the letter into my pocket and stormed towards Levon's study, praying Kaizen would be elsewhere. With a few hours until dinner, a walk through town seemed like the perfect way to shake off my overwhelming thoughts, hoping to pry more information from Levon.

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