Lakin had been observing the festivities as well. He was quite upset when he noticed the green mist following Koral around and knew at once that Malena had done something.
“That stupid witch,” he muttered to himself. “If she keeps this up, she will ruin everything.” Deciding to put off dealing with her until later, he turned his attention back to Brin. He could tell by her determined walk, she was going to see General Traug but was somewhat confused about it. “Surely she is not going to tell her families secret,” he stated to the air. It would be quite interesting if she were. He had thought, as did everyone, she had no significant magical abilities. They were all wrong. Lakin had witnessed her little temper tantrum after seeing her sister use magic. It had intrigued him. The way she incinerated her night table with a mere thought had him enthralled with her. “It must be quite confusing for you, my princess,” he purred, stroking her image in the pool. “Do not worry, I will guide you and then maybe I can be rid of Malena forever. Besides, it would be much better if I were king when I take over this world.” He was daydreaming about Brin when Malena’s voice pulled him back to reality.
“I know you are watching, Lakin. Come to the mirror.”
He moved from the pool and withdrew the cloth on the mirror. “What is it?” he snapped.
“Well, we are testy today,” Malena snapped back.
“I am tired. What is it you want?”
“Koral will be easier to follow now. I thought you would be pleased.”
Lakin sighed. “I am going to send Traug after her when she leaves. I did not want to make it easy for him to catch their little group.”
He could see Malena’s face change. “I am so sorry if it interferes with your plans, but we are in this together.”
“Not for long,” he thought then smiled. “Yes, I’m sorry. I didn’t want to give him too much information is all. I guess it would make things easier if he knew the truth of things.”
Lakin could tell by Malena’s expression she was not pleased by this. “If you think it will help our cause, Lakin, then do it. Just be careful what you tell him. Remember, he believes you wish to destroy all magic not help bring it back.”
“Yes, I am aware of his beliefs. I think he will understand.”
Malena just shook her head and disappeared from view. Happy she was gone; Lakin went back to his pool to watch Brin.