“The king would like to request an audience with you, my lord,” Kenai told the angel.

Korn adjusted his white headband and tied back his hair. “Let us be off, then. You go ahead of me; I’ll be in Naimon soon,”

“You won’t be rid of me that easily, I’m afraid. I am to accompany you.” She reached out her hand.

“So be it, then. Let us depart immediately.” He grabbed Kenai’s hand and the two disappeared into a mist.

Traveling this way always disoriented and sickened Korn. As the two appeared in King Theodore’s chamber, Korn fell to his knees and shut his eyes to stop the room from spinning. The old king stood near a window, swilling a cup of wine with quiet irritation. 

“Welcome Korn, Kenai,” King Theodore said between swigs.

“Thank you, my lord. Forgive me for not rising to meet you,” Korn apologized, “but travel by mist always makes me ill.” 

“Worry not, there are more pressing concerns.” 

“Kenai has informed me of the prince’s current situation.” Korn rose, beginning to get his bearings. “He has been abducted, correct?” 

“Not abducted, run away–for the FOURTH TIME THIS MONTH!” The king’s cup shattered against the wall and Kenai flinched. “I give the boy everything, anything he could ever want, and how does he thank me? By running away! How is he to be king when he never spends time learning how?” The king took a breath and reoriented himself. “My apologies, Lord Korn, It has been a troubling time for me.”

“I understand.”

“I apologize to you as well, Kenai. You should not have to see me in such poor temper.”

“Worry not, my lord, I do not hold it against you”

“King Theodore, do you have any idea where the prince has gone?” Korn asked.

“I assume he has gone to the harbor in Archere to converse with the sailors.” The king rolled his eyes. “He goes to hear stories of pirates…It seems to be an obsession of his. I didn’t wish to bother you, but I’m at my wits end with him. Can you try to talk some sense into him, please?” 

“I can try, but what makes you believe that he’ll listen to me?” 

The king gestured at Korn. “The boy is enamored with tales of old; he idolizes you.” 

Korn sighed. “I will do what I can.”

Theodore stood taller, as if a weight had been lifted from his shoulders. “Many thanks to you, my friend.”

Korn bowed. “Never hesitate to call upon me for help. I am here for you, my friend. Kenai, let us be off. I will meet you at the harbor.”

Kenai smiled coyly. “We can travel through the mist…”

Korn ruffled his wings. “No, that’s quite all right.”

“Fine,” Kenai huffed with a dramatic pout. “I’ll just have to travel by myself all the way to Achere.” 

“Off with you,” King Theodore commanded the short woman. “I am sure you will fare well.

“Yes, your majesty.” Kenai bowed then stepped into the mist, causing moss and flowers to sprout along the stone floor.

Korn bowed to the king of Naimon then walked out to the balcony and dove off the side, falling for a few seconds before rocketing into the sky. He flew above the clouds at a blistering pace. He would make it to Achere in two minutes, where it was to be hoped that Kenai would be waiting with Prince Laddington. But when Korn landed on the docks the harborside was glutted with stone spawn. Forced to carry shipping crates too heavy for any man, the creatures of magic and stone shambled around him. Sailors shouted orders so loudly they almost drowned out the seagulls’ screeching. Korn searched the crowd but did not see Kenai until he suddenly felt her presence and spun to grab her. 

“Kenai?” Concern filled his voice. Kenai was pale as a ghost as she looked up at Korn.

“The Prince isn’t here.”