Ch-13

Chapter 13

Carina arranged for Klara to be placed in one of the best rooms available and had all the best care on hand. Klara was changed into a new nightdress the shade of sapphire blue, and laid on the most plush bed she’d ever felt. Carina requested that Randolf remain outside the room, needing full concentration on healing the Wiccan.

“I’ll be right outside,” Randolf whispered to a frightened Klara, kissing her forehead. Reluctantly, Klara released his hand and took a deep breath to calm her panicked heart.

“Don’t worry Klara, it’ll be over quickly.” Carina sat down and took one wrist between both hands and closed her eyes. Instantly her golden magic surrounded the burn, banishing the poison from Klara’s body.

The young woman groaned as the poison fought against the magic, the battle overwhelming her body and mind.

“Think of something happy, Klara.” Carina said forcefully. “I need you to fight through this with me.” Klara whimpered but did as the princess ordered, instantly thinking of the kiss with Randolf. Warmth and peace filled her soul, and soon she fell into a relaxed state where all she thought of was the handsome man who’d saved her and cared for her.

“There, all done.” Carina panted, wiping her sweaty brow. Klara opened her eyes and was astonished to see nothing left of the burns on her wrists. “Now, I want you to rest for a good while. I’ll send some good food to your room in a bit.” She rose gracefully and started to leave.

“Princess…” Klara started then paused, biting her lip. Carina turned with a bright smile.

“Call me Carina, please.” Blushing, Klara fiddled with the sheets.

“I…thank you.” Carina nodded then left, shutting the door. On the other side, Carina turned to Randolf gravely and he stepped forward anxiously.

“Is she….?”

“She’s fine.” Carina whispered. “But I’m concerned, how did this happen to her?” Randolf glanced around then whispered under his breath.

“Gerrick has returned.” Carina paled for a moment then anger returned to her eyes.

“How did he get his hands on her? She should have been able to fight him…” Randolf looked away. “You didn’t return her magic to her yet?!”

“I didn’t have a chance!” Randolf replied hotly. “She was gone by the time I got back home!” Carina crossed her arms and narrowed her eyes at his tone.

“Why was she gone at all?”

“I didn’t do anything to her, if that’s what you’re implying, your highness.” Randolf gritted. “For some reason she feared for my safety and felt she had to leave. Gerrick must have taken her when she was leaving.”

“We can’t allow this to happen again. We barely defeated him last time…” Carina sighed, shaking her head. “We need her on our side, Randolf. We can’t fight both Gerrick AND Gertrude!”

“I realize…” Randolf started then gulped when the door creaked open and a pale Klara stood, wide eyed and afraid. “Klara, you need to rest…”

“You’re talking about me, I deserve to hear what you’re saying.” Klara replied softly. Carina smiled slightly.

“You’re right, I’m sorry. But you do need to lie back down. I can’t let you faint.” Randolf escorted her back in and then took a seat beside the bed as Carina stood next to him. “What is on your mind?”

“Why are you both so worried for my health and safety?” Klara replied. “I…I’m just a low born girl with healing abilities. Or….I used to.” Klara looked at her hands and bit her trembling lip. Randolf clasped one tightly and replied,

“Do you know why she took your magic?” Carina asked. Klara shook her head, shaking from the painful memories. “Because she’s fearful of your power. You’re the only wiccan who could match her dark magic.”

“And…you expect me to stand up against her?” Klara asked fearfully. Carina hesitated.

“We…we are HOPING, you will.”

“But no one is forcing you to.” Randolf quickly added, reaching for her hand again but she drew back. “I will protect you no matter what.”

“Why?” Klara demanded. “I’m nothing without my magic!”

Klara felt overwhelmed, wanting to wake up from this nightmare. Randolf glanced at Carina and she nodded, leaving them alone.

Author: Katie (Crios) Editor: Elizabeth (Eala)

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