Page 66 of The Tribes of Magic
“Even the General is afraid of them.”
“He is not!”
“Then why did he reward Rhett for breaking the rules? The General never rewards anyone for breaking the rules.”
“He had no choice. I heard someone is protecting all the kids from Victory. Someone in the Government.”
“Really?”
“No.”
“Can’t be.”
“Must be.”
I walked faster and faster…until I was almost running. I cut toward the closest door and rushed outside, bursting onto theHex. I ran across the soft, velvety grass and through the arch. Running, running, running until I reached the edge of the Castle grounds. I fumbled with the handle at the gate and then I was out.
Someone was waiting for me there. “Savannah Winters.”
The woman drew back her veil, revealing her face.
“I know you,” I told her. “We’ve met before.”
“Yes.”
“It was yesterday. At the conference center. You’re the old woman I met in the kitchen.” I winced as soon as I said it. What a rude thing to say. “Oh. I’m sorry. I didn’t mean…”
“It’s quite all right, dear. I am old.”
The woman’s mouth spread into a genuine, grandmotherly smile—white hair, wrinkles, and all. She really did look exactly how I’d always pictured Mrs. Claus would look.
“I’m so sorry. I’m just tired and wasn’t thinking straight. I’ve had a rough day. I know, it’s no excuse. Do you want me to escort you home?”
“There’s no need. I know the way home, but you do not.”
“I know that. I was just trying to be nice and…”
“Chivalrous?” Her eyes twinkled at me.
“Yes, chivalrous. Because I’m training to be a Knight.” I sighed. “I guess I still have a long way to go.”
Her smile didn’t falter. “You’re doing better than you think, Savannah. You will make an excellent Knight.”
“That’s very kind of you to say, but I’m afraid the only thing I’m excelling at right now is putting my foot in my mouth. I probably should stop talking now.”
“Don’t worry, dear. You don’t need to talk if you don’t want to. Though I would appreciate it if you would listen.”
“Listen? To what?”
“To my plea. Savannah Winters, please help me. My grandson has gone missing, and I need your help to find him.”
EPISODE 4
THE NYMPHS
CHAPTER 1
KNIGHTS WEAR MASKS
