Page 45 of The Starlight Savior

“Then…” She looked down at her lap. “Why didn’t anyone come to retrieve me?”

Eva reached her hand across the table, flinching at the heat of Saige’s skin. “I thought of you for so many years. I had hoped you built a life of your own in the mortal lands. Tell us about Brevil.”

Nodding, Saige shook off the possibilities of a childhood in Etrane. For the first time in her life, she spoke freely. From when the light first flowed through her veins to her parents’ execution. Niana inhaled sharply as Saige described her trek to Denholm, three sunrises and sunsets with no food, collapsing on Judith’s doorstep where she graciously took in a child who was a risk to all. The years growing up that came after.

“Judith,” Niana said quietly. “She sounds like a kind woman. But why would a mortal take in a child with magic? She could’ve gotten executed.”

Saige shrugged. For years, she often wondered the same thing. “The day she found me, Judith prayed to Terrus, asking for guidance. She claimed he spoke directly to her, urging her to care for me. I don’t think I’d be alive without her.”

“I can imagine you’re missing her a lot.”

Saige nodded, reaching for the chalice of ale. Taking a long sip, she closed her eyes. Each day, she continued to put aside the thoughts of Brevil and the people she left behind. Now an ache in her chest was settling as the memories of Denholm flowed through her.

Niana reached for her hand. Saige didn’t know why this woman, a stranger, was being so kind to her. But she appreciated it in a way that felt taboo. If Althea had reached for her, she would’ve snatched her hand away. Afraid of the burn her skin brought upon others. The people here embraced it though.

“What do you think she is doing now?” Eva asked. “Your father would be so grateful for her kindness. I know I am.”

“I don’t know,” Saige admitted. “I haven’t thought much about her. Too much going on.”

“I can’t imagine how much you’re having to relearn.” Eva sighed. Bringing her fingertip to her mouth, she gnawed at a loose piece of skin.

“When I was younger, right after she cleared out the shack, she’d make my favorite dinners. We’d sit by the fire; she’d scour for chocolate and mix it with water or milk, if we had it. It always made everything better. Even for a moment.” Saige wiped at a stray tear on her cheek. “I hope Judith is doing that now.”

“The shack?” Eva placed her hands on her chin and leaned forward.

As Saige explained the little room behind Judith’s home, Niana frowned. “You were sent away?”

“N-No.” Saige shook her head. “It was safer for me to stay out there. Just in case.”

“But you were all alone.”

“It was what was necessary.”

“So Judith was the only one who knew what you were going through, and yet you had to experience coming into your magic on your own?” Niana’s frown deepened, her head cocking to the side.

“Niana,” Eva warned, “this is not your business to meddle in.”

“I don’t mean to offend,” she clarified with a sigh. “I just don’t think that sounds very fair.”

“It was what was necessary,” Saige repeated, her words sharper than before.

“Well at least you aren’t alone now.” Niana smiled, returning to the dessert and ale in front of her.

Saige tried to do the same, but emotion stuck in her throat. For the first time in years, she believed that could be true.

─── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──

When they exited the dining hall, Niana reached for Saige’s hand. “I’d like to show you something. If you’re up for it.”

Saige looked behind her to see the same two warlocks waiting expectantly. Normally she’d go back to her quarters and dive into one of the shelved books until her eyelids grew heavy. But where was the fun in that?

“Sure.” She followed Niana across the main hall. The heavy steps of armored warlocks followed behind them.

Walking out the castle doors, Saige realized it was the first time she’d been outside besides the courtyard. Snow fell lightly from the sky, dusting their hair. Horse hooves echoed in the distance as a group of soldiers were dispatched. Winding gardens lined the paths as they walked towards a wooden structure sitting on the edge of a brimming forest. Hay and dung lingered in the air as horses stood in a line. One whinnied in their stable as Niana and Saige approached. Towards the back of the stables, ravens flapped their wings in seven silver cages.

“I have something for you.” Niana walked towards a wooden desk set in the corner. A quill, jar of ink, and blank parchment sat upon it. “For you. To write letters home to Judith.”

Something inside Saige’s chest softened, a tingle going down her stomach.