Chương 1: Prologue

"Everything is prepared, Your Excellency. It is in Her Grace Magalesa's hands now," Alexi said.

"Good. And you understand your role, Wixx?

"Of course." The king studied her.

"It's a simple task. Complete it, and your debt is erased. But you will not be recognized. We have peering stones in place to ensure compliance." Wixx didn't answer immediately.

"I understand the job," she said at last. Something in the room felt… tighter.

"Alexi," the king continued, "if something goes wrong, can we complete a second summoning?" Alexi shifted.

"Yes, Your Excellency. But only by sacrificing the first. We would need to reclaim what was spent." The story has been taken without consent; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.

"Let's hope it doesn't come to that. The other rulers arrive two days after the summoning. We'll decide then." He gestured toward the door.

"You're dismissed." They stood. Wixx moved first. Alexi followed, but stopped just short of the door.

"Your Excellency… a personal question, if I may." Wixx paused. The king waved a hand.

"Go on. Wixx, you may leave." She didn't acknowledge him. For a moment, she simply stood there. Then she turned. As she passed through the doorway, the torches along the wall dipped, their flames shrinking low before returning to normal once she was gone. The door clicked shut. Alexi let out a breath he hadn't realized he was holding. Only then did he step forward.

"Involving her is a dangerous game," he said quietly.

"I don't understand the theatrics.

"It is dangerous," the king agreed.

"She is not someone you control. Not truly." A faint smile touched his lips.

"But she only needs to believe we have two chances." Alexi frowned.

"Why?" he glanced at the doorway, making sure she hadn't returned.

"The Wixx family is proud. Secretive. But not beyond study." The king leaned back in his chair.

"You asked me why we would summon a child." Realization crept across Alexi's face.

"Adriane Wixx," the king said.

"Tell me, is there anyone in this world you would rather have train a champion?" Alexi's expression tightened.

"You want her to take the child." The king's smile widened, slow and certain.

"No," he said softly.

"I'm counting on it."