Page 11

11

NEO

N eo could not get out of the carriage fast enough. The two days with Zula had been nothing but pure torture, especially because her upcoming sentencing had made her mellow. There was still that fire that so compelled him, but there was also a softer side to her he’d never seen.

As soon as they arrived at the palace grounds, he excused himself from the carriage before he did something truly disgraceful and kissed her while his men looked on.

The palace rose above the jungle. Built on a hilltop, it had beautiful views of the fauna and flora, the flower gardens and the smaller waterfalls that fed the streams that passed through. It was lush with vegetation, an idyllic paradise. Unlike other structures, the palace had been built around the jungle. Vines hung off balconies, trees grew inside, and it was impossible to tell whether the bamboo walls belonged to the palace or the jungle. Even the marble columns and thick stone walls blended in with the vibrant colors of the jungle. It was like stumbling upon a hidden relic and discovering it was a place where people dwelled.

Neo relaxed as he walked toward the columns. Putting his hands in his pockets, he took a deep breath of the lotus-scented air, instantly feeling better.

“You’re back!” Thune, one of the guards, stepped away from his post and saluted Neo.

Neo grinned. “I am, and I was successful. When does the queen want to see her?”

“About that.” Thune sobered. “Her Majesty gave specific orders that you are not to attend.”

Neo froze. “I’m not to attend?”

“I’m sure she has her reasons.”

Neo nodded, letting his shoulder relax again .

Thune nudged him. “Well? How did the chase go? You have to be proud of yourself. I heard the trolls were appeased.”

“They were, but the chase was rough. My own fault—I violated my own rules of engagement. I caught her, but I don’t think it’s over. She sprained her ankle, maybe broke it, which gives us a small reprieve, but I expect she’ll try to escape from the palace. With all the balconies and vines, it will be too easy. Be on guard.”

“I will. I’ll let the others know, although I’m curious why she wasn’t immediately taken to the dungeons.”

Neo shrugged. “I intend to find out. For now, I’m going to finish my report and find something to eat. Shout if you need me, will you?”

“I’ll do one better. I’ll escort the Blue-Feathered Bard to meet with Her Majesty myself and report to you later.”

Neo clapped his old friend on the shoulder. “I appreciate that.”