‘Why?' She felt herself asking, tears pricking at her face. "Who would do this?"

"I don't know, Kumari," Kael's voice surprised her, causing her to jump, "but we can't stay here. It's not safe."

He was right. Staying here, even for a moment longer, would not only risk her life and those of her traveling companions but also the entire realm. If anything were to happen to the Kumari it would spell doom for the Ren. As Bae turned to leave, she heard a hissing sound. Her head ...