Page 136 of The King of Koraha
“Exactly. It’s the best place for them to blend in.”
When they arrived at the market, she scanned the bustling stands and throngs of people. “We need to find a spot nearby that’s hidden from view.”
Rendor didn’t question her. Instead he found an alcove along the back wall. It was being used to store boxes of merchandise. Shyla sat on a stack while Rendor guarded the opening. Then she reached with The Eyes, seeking Mojag and Gurice’s thoughts.
Sure enough, they were in the market. Gurice was pretending to be an elderly woman shopping with Mojag, who guided her through the crowds with ease. He was zeroing in on one of Xerxes’ people, hoping to get some answers from the soldier.
Shyla changed his mind by calling him to her.
Over here.
Back wall.
Be casual.
She repeated the call until a figure darted right by Rendor and tackled her. They tumbled to the ground.
“Mojag…can’t…breathe.”
“Sorry.” He loosened his grip. “I knew you weren’t dead.”
“Are you going to explain why everyone believes you are?” Gurice asked. She stood next to Rendor.
“Yes, once we’re someplace safe.”
The siblings followed them back to the castle. Since the King wouldn’t be going to his sleeping chambers for a while, they found a secluded spot in the unused section of the castle to fill Mojag and Gurice in on all the details.
“Wow,” Gurice said. “You’re lucky you’re not dead for real.”
Shyla agreed.
“Can we get them back?” Mojag asked, clearly worried about the Invisible Swords. He rubbed his shoulder where their symbol had been drawn.
“We’re going to do everything we can to free them.”
The “we” seemed to get through to him. Mojag straightened from where he’d slumped against the wall. “We are.” The words sounded like a promise.
When they followed the King into his hidden sleeping chambers, Mojag gaped at the water. Then, when introduced to the King, he blurted, “But you’re so young!”
The King laughed. “So are you. And you should know youth doesn’t always mean a person is inexperienced or irresponsible or not intelligent. You’re a perfect example. Because of you, the taxes are secure instead of in Xerxes’ hands.”
“Happy to help.” Mojag beamed.
Gurice bowed to the King but seemed incapable of speaking. Shyla elbowed Rendor. She’d never seen her friend so flustered.
“I’m glad you’re both here to help. More people to read through the old scrolls. Mojag, don’t get too close to the pool or you’ll—”
Mojag fell into the water with a splash. He thrashed, panicking. The King gestured and the water parted so the boy could climb from the pool. By the time he reached them, he was dry.
“Thanks.” He patted his clothing as if he couldn’t believe they weren’t sopping wet.
“You just couldn’t resist, could you?” Gurice scolded.
“I’ve never seen that much water. Ever. I just had to touch it!”
“Until you learn to swim, don’t go near there again or you might drown,” the King said.
“Swim? Drown?”
