Hoodwinked: The Summoning Book One

Chapter 5

The tawny-feathered peregrine falcon flew into the open bedroom window of Traughlin manor just before dawn. The predatory bird jolted her head to peer at all corners of the bedchamber to make certain she was alone.

As she imagined her true human form before the transformation, the princess shifted the channeling ring in her talons and rubbed it with her foot in quick succession, Otti thought of the magic words required to be human once again. Homosapiatis combioto.

To change into a falcon, it was a similar action and phrase. Otti would place the ring on her middle toe and silently chant the words, Falconias combioto. She also turned herself into a house moth. Because the ring was too heavy for a moth to carry, she had to secure the talisman in a crack in the lower shadows of a wall.

She would rub the ring's labradorite stone and silently chant, Asotaplagia combioto. These spells were quite useful when sneaking about. Otti discovered many secrets utilizing these transformations; this included the information she gathered just a few hours ago.

Being disguised as a harmless moth on several walls, Otti listened assertively to all the gossip from the chambermaids, housemaids, parlor maids, guardsmen, the stablemen and the butler. They were all sharing similar rumors.

Preparations were being made in anticipation for the arrival of the Draconian guests. Doors to their rooms were to have spare keys. Everything must be satisfactory to the Draconians and to the queen. Last of all, daily entertainment must be provided to encourage a prolonged stay.

This seemed peculiar to the princess, but she was unable to focus on these clues. Casting these spells caused her energy to wane. Otswana needed rest before contemplating on what the arrival of the Draconians and the use of Otti's blood meant to the queen.

Otswana stumbled to her bed, and struggled as she donned her night dress, not bothering to button up the collar. Tucking herself under her covers, her eyes drooped and in a short moment she was asleep.

"Good morning, Miss Otti, time to rise," Abryan greeted as she entered Otswana's room. Otswana forced her eyes open, as her curtains were pulled back to reveal the morning sun.

Did I even sleep? she asked herself.

"Oh my. You look absolutely dreadful. Are you ill, miss?" Abryan asked in a voice full of concern. She reached over and pressed her hand to Otti's forehead.

Andra stepped into the room a moment later and abruptly stopped. Otti watched with half-closed eyes as Andra took in her appearance.

"Another evening out, I see. Well if you think that will excuse you from your studies, you're sorely mistaken, Otti." Andra made her way to the wardrobe and selected a light green day dress. "Abryan, please retrieve her trousers and vest," Andra instructed.

Abryan turned about to set out Otti's afternoon clothes. "Yes, Mrs. Honled."

"Your father waits for you to join him at breakfast, Otti. We must not keep him waiting." Andra pulled the bed covers off the sleepy girl and helped her dress. They brushed her hair and plaited it into a twist. All the while, Andra cast Otti disapproving glances.

Ten minutes later, the princess sat down at the breakfast table with her father and ate in silence. Lord Briggon sipped on his tea with a vacant expression. He was preoccupied with his thoughts again.

"Otswana, there is something I need to tell you," the sorcerer said, finally concentrating on the present. Otti looked up to meet her father's pensive gaze. "I haven't been completely forthright with you. Because the queen plans to introduce you to all the kingdoms, your existence is now widely known. It is too late to do anything about it now. I have been told the invitations were sent out over a week ago," Lord Briggon paused.