A World Apart The Jake Thomas Trilogy - By Steven A. Tolle Page 0,141

to be kept secret until she left.

"I have my sources." He said, crossing his arms, clearly not going to say more.

She sighed. He could be so stubborn at times. It had to be one of his friends in the Royal Guards.

Worried that Nataly would miss the messenger, she motioned for him to follow her out into the hallway. She walked quickly as they made their way down towards the main floor.

"I will speak to my father tonight after the evening meal." She said warmly. "You should accompany me to help persuade him since time is short." She lowered her voice, speaking quietly. "I am supposed to leave in the morning."

They continued on, unaware of the figure that stepped out from a darkened alcove. He would have to send his own message.

CHAPTER TWENTY-FOUR

Occasionally having to apologize for bumping into someone, Jake made his way up to Tomaris' study for his regular training session, oblivious to the people passing around him, his focus on the letter in his hand. He had re-read it multiple times since it arrived, the parchment wrinkled from the repetitive opening and closing, as well as getting scrunched up in his pocket. He brought it up to his face and sniffed; he could still faintly smell the perfume that had been applied to it.

A rider wearing the signal of Sanduas had shown up at the gates about a week ago, announcing that he brought messages. Jake had been shocked when, after delivering messages for Tomaris and Dominic, the man had pulled out this letter. It was on fine parchment and sealed, the royal seal outlined in the wax, addressed to Jake. When he took it, he noticed that it had the scent of a familiar perfume, the one that Keria wore. Dominic had taken one look at the seal and walked away, shaking his head.

Barely dodging a servant with a basket full of clothes, Jake looked back at the letter. It was written in a neat and flowing script. He read it again.

My Dearest Jake,

I was very upset with you when you left without saying goodbye or leaving a message. However, Bother Jonas has met with and explained to me the reasons that required you to leave in that manner. I forgive you for the hurt your sudden departure caused me and I am glad you are safe and sound.

It is very exciting to hear that you have this mysterious magic. Learn well so you may become a powerful hero. Surely, with such power, my father will reconsider his foolish demand.

I'm leaving tomorrow and traveling to Morisan to attend my cousin's wedding. I had to beg my father to let me go, but he finally relented. I will be gone for a couple of weeks, but hope that when I return, you will have finished your training and are back in Sanduas. I pray that we can see each other very soon. Please stay safe and come back to me.

With all my affection,

Keria

As he re-read the letter, he wondered when he would be allowed to return. He had been at the Keep for two months now, the people and halls becoming familiar, the time passing quickly as he trained. While he was pleased with his progress and Tomaris was a gentle teacher, he was starting to feel the need to return to Sanduas.

Jake shook off his thoughts and put the letter away when he reached Tomaris' study. He knocked and went in. Tomaris was sitting in his chair, eyes closed. He did not respond to Jake's presence at first, only opening his eyes when Jake was close. "Hello, Jake. How was your training?"

"The usual, Tomaris." Jake said, smiling, rubbing his forearms.

"If you will forgive me, we will not have a session this afternoon." Tomaris said. "I have some business that requires my attention." He smiled at Jake. "You can go relax if you like."

"Of course, Tomaris." Jake said. "I will see you tomorrow."

...

Later that evening, Jake was sitting at his desk, his letter pinned down by the inkwell, facing towards the patio doorway, enjoying the cool night breeze that rolled in as he thought of Keria. After several large yawns, he was considering going to bed when there was a gentle knock at his door. He went to the door and was surprised to find Tomaris on the other side. He started to step aside to let him in, but Tomaris held up a hand.

"I apologize for the late hour." He said quietly. "But I would like you