20. Unexpected Change

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    Kalian soared over Selcouth, drinking in the salty air that wafted from the sea. It was risky to fly; he knew it was possible he'd be recognized no matter what he did, but he couldn't stay grounded any longer.

    As soon as twilight fell, marking his third night in the city, Kalian had accompanied Bellamy to a tavern and left while his friend was busy drinking. He'd let his glamour fade and shot into the sky without a second thought.

    Kalian threw his head back, letting the wind pull hair out of his face. The icy blue swirls in his wings shimmered with his elation. The currents gathered beneath their membranous folds and carried him higher, farther, faster. Kalian came to a halt and hovered, letting his gaze sweep over the city. He'd thought it was beautiful from the ground, but it was even more beautiful up here.

    The warm colors of the buildings accompanied by glowing paper lanterns and firepits, the din of music and laughter, the scents of many delectable treats, and the clatter of dishes and wagon wheels created a beautiful symphony. A magnificent landscape. Ones that even the most skillful artisans could never replicate.

    A flash of green in a dim alleyway caught his attention. Kalian banked towards it. He kept his movements silent as he scanned the alley for signs of life. There came another flash of green, followed by a timid laugh. Kalian drew his wings up and landed.

    Instantly, the Witch rounded on him, magic flaring at her fingertips. Kalian raised his hands and took half a step back. "Easy. I'm not here to cause trouble."

    "You're a Night Faerie," the Witch realized. Her magic faded. "What are you doing here? Don't you know there's an Ironblade unit positioned right outside the city?"

    "I'm aware. And, I could ask the same about you."

    "I live here."

    "Oh."

    "What is it you want?" Her golden silver eyes flashed with renewed suspicion. "I'm not a courtesan, if that's what you're thinking."

    "It's not, don't worry." Kalian drew a slip of folded paper out of his pocket. "Can you deliver this for me?"

    "That depends where you want it to go."

    "To Queen Iyan of the Night Faeries."

    The Witch stared at him in surprise. "Oh, I didn't expect... Yes, yes I can deliver it."

    "And no one is to know about this," Kalian added. "I can't tell you why, but I'm sure you can come up with a few theories."

    The Witch nodded and took the letter. Her eyes closed briefly and magic sparked to life. Her lips moved in a short incantation. The letter winked out of sight. Kalian breathed a soft sigh of relief. He'd been carrying that letter to his King and Queen for far too long. He'd sleep easier knowing that it was safe in their hands and out of his own.

    He grabbed two gold marks from his pocket and pressed them into the Witch's palm. "Tell no one," he repeated. "Please."

    "I swear."

    With a flap of his wings, Kalian was airborne once more. His next sigh was resigned, rather than relieved. He would have to return to the tavern soon or Bellamy would ask questions. And if Bellamy didn't, then one of the many Ironblades who'd accompanied him would.

    Delilah and Malachi were among them. Kalian had felt Malachi's gaze pressing into his back when he left. He would probably ask questions anyway. At least Lir had gone to see his sweetheart, making one less person Kalian had to worry about.

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