Sira watched as Klavon prepared the serum. Only a sprinkle on the barrier, and she would be able to slip inside undetected—so Klavon believed. Of course, no one had ever tried, and if discovered, there would be no mercy shown by Barsovy to the intruder. Barsovy was an enigma and the keeper of the fields…and he was most powerful. Sira would not dare to confront him.
She wasn’t concerned, however—she had other plans. Ever since she had met Darius, saved him from the field of dead stalks to gain his trust, she wondered at Klavon’s intention to kill the boy…disagreed. A klutz for sure, but there was something else she detected in this handsome youth. He could be of use to Klavon, she was certain—of use beyond death.
“Here,” said Klavon, interrupting her thoughts.
“Are you certain this is wise?” she asked.
“You doubt my ability again?” asked Klavon. “I certainly hope this isn’t becoming a habit. That would be most unfortunate…for you.”
“I do not doubt. All of my intentions are to further your power and reign. As always, I am your servant,” she replied.
Klavon laughed. “You are servant to no one. We both know that.”
“My allegiance then. I merely wish to ensure that you do not become detected, bring upon yourself and your realm the wrath of the one called Barsovy.”
“Barsovy is nothing. Parlor magic. No, this will work. And you will convince the boy to continue on his quest for the book—without training.” A satisfied sneer crossed Klavon’s lips as held up his sword, turning it slowly in his hands. “Blood is such a beautiful shade of red…”
Sira watched her master as he obsessed. She recalled the first time she had met him—at the end of the blade that had just killed a powerful sorcerer in whose service she had been attached.
It was true. She was servant to no one, and although she was willing to align herself with a sorcerer, it was selfish. Her talents were many, but the energy she absorbed when aligned with a sorcerer? She was almost as powerful as…a wizard.
She could not, however, turn against the one whose energy on which she relied, not that she would ever want to. However, Klavon’s decision to kill the boy could not be allowed.
Klavon, still turning the blade in his hand, nodded toward the serum. Sira bowed in turn, quietly picked it up, and left.