The Truth Over The Wall

Chapter 22

One of Lord Arnold's helpers, Sara, followed Amara out of the tent, and was helping her wash her hands clean. Amara moved in a daze while Sara continued to pour the water.

"It's alright, milady," Sara, said rousing her suddenly. "You did great. No one could've done better."

Amara nodded at her weakly in response. Her head shot up at the sound of horses and she saw Dominic ride up with the princess and her friend in tow.

                             *                            *                              *

"What happened back there?" Hanalea had asked Alistair when Dominic was out of ear shot.

"She got away," Alistair said simply. "I lost sight of her."

"That's..." Hanalea had trailed off and shook her head. Never happened before, she thought. Is that even possible?

But he would not say anything else and she could hardly carry on the conversation in front of Prince Dominic.

                          *                                *                             *

Amara pressed her fingers wearily to her eye-lids while Dominic walked up to Lord Arnold's tent.

"How is he?" Dominic asked Amara, holding his breath, "Did it work?" The words seemed to break some spell and she finally reacted. Amara looked up at him and smiled.

"Yes," she said on a shaky breath and a startled chuckle escaped her when Dominic doubled up with his face in his hands. "He's fine. The nettle worms... they removed the poison. And we've just finished patching up his injuries. In a bit, we'll move him to the recovery tent; I think you can see him then."

Her eyes moved over his shoulder and paused on Alistair.

"I think," she told Dominic with a polite smile, "Proper introductions are in order."

Hanalea and Alistair joined them by the tent then, and Hanalea asked suddenly,
"Is it true then?" She was cautious, "What His Highness has stated...about your predicament."

Amara frowned a little, hurt. "By predicament, do you mean to ask if I am a witch?"

And her frown deepened when all three of them looked around to see if anyone had heard.

"I think," Dominic said, leading the way to his own tent. "This conversation would be better conducted elsewhere."

"Yes," Amara said dryly, even as she studied Alistair curiously, "We wouldn't want anyone to hear." She said and looked away just when he turned to look at her.

Once inside, Hanalea turned her full attention on Amara.

If - and for Hanalea this was a very big if – Dominic's story held true, then she could not see the harm in hearing the girl out.

And if – and this was a much likely if – he was wrong then it was just as important to speak with her. A witch would not knowingly insert herself in their number for no reason, if she was after something, Hanalea would know what.

Jason had Hanalea's trust. And Jason had every confidence in Dominic.

If Dominic could trust this girl...Hanalea thought reluctantly, then the least she could do was give her a chance.