Page 26 of Of Blood & Stone

They stood in silence as the storm cloud expanded its reach across the sky.

“It will take a day and a half to make it through Lhaal Forest. While the monsters will prove an obstacle, it’s Estea that will be far more dangerous for you. So if you truly wish to survive, then you will heed my warnings with utmost caution.”

Despite Elnok’s efforts, sweat formed on the back of his neck.

“First, the High One, our leader, will not be pleased that you are arriving in Tosh’s place.”

“You said he wouldn’t accept anyone besides those of royal blood.”

“Correct, but it doesn’t mean he wants to undergo trade revisions with someone who’s been supposedly dead for ten years. He’ll more than likely delay the meetings and gather as much information about you as he can, but I believe this will work well for what we need to accomplish.”

“We’re looking for a tree that heals people, and yet you speak as if we’re inciting a revolution.”

“Perhaps we are.”

Elnok’s muscles tightened as he pushed back from the rail.

“Our goddess, Aretta, died centuries ago, leaving the High One as her vessel of sorts. But if her tree remains, then this could challenge his position; it would mean a piece of her survived in the battle between her and her brother, Distrathrus.”

“Seems like information you could’ve shared with me two days ago.”

“I didn’t think such a factor would deter you.”

Elnok worked his jaw back and forth. “It might if it means this is an impossible task.”

“I wouldn’t be considering this if it was.”

Elnok leaned back on the rails. “Then being under your High One’s scrutiny sounds like a disadvantage.”

“Not entirely. Since Vutror is an allying kingdom, you have free access to parts of the temple many of our people don’t. Yes, you will have guards with you, but simply be under the guise you’re interested in our history as you search for information about the goddess’ tree; it will be your first time in Estea so I doubt it will cause much suspicion if you play it right.” Kharis straightened, leaning an elbow on the railing as a smile peeled across his mouth. “And given your occupation this last decade, I’m guessing you’re rather talented at such games.”

“So it would be folly to inquire this High One about the mythical tree?”

Kharis’ smile faded as he tapped a finger on the railing. “You said it yourself, Estea has the means of providing for all of Druenia if we so wished. And yet, we don’t.”

Elnok raised a brow.

The Dynami continued, his gaze narrowed, “While the High One is a pious man, he is prideful above all else. Your worries mean little to him. All he wants are the Vutrorian weapons. Wield that knowledge carefully, Prince Elnok, for even I’m uncertain why he covets them so greatly.”

Elnok’s brow creased. “Is there anything else I should know?”

“Be wary of our kingdom’s Kreenas.”

“I’m sorry… a what?”

“A Kreena. It’s what we call Estean women who use our goddess’ power to produce food and water. They’re the most pious of our people. They’ve been dedicated to our goddess since they were young and know little else. My people, especially the Kreenas, are steeped in tradition; if you question anything in regards to our kingdom in front of them, they might report you to the High One.”

“They sound like my personal hell.”

“Except they’re the most educated in subjects such as Aretta’s Willow. Gaining the favor of one could be a tremendous help in finding the tree,” Kharis countered.

“Let’s hope it doesn’t come to that,” Elnok replied. “So that’s the plan then? We make it through Lhaal, your High One will observe me ruthlessly for days, and I’ll scour the temple to find information about the tree?” Elnok tipped his head to the sky. “And what will you be doing through all of this?”

Kharis smiled. “Doing what I can to make the High One’s observations of you… difficult.”

Elnok couldn’t help but smile in return.

“We’ve only got a week left before your friend’s sickness takes him.” Kharis held out his hand, “But I believe that in our joint effort, we can find Aretta’s Willow.”

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