Her back against one of the columns that surrounded the courtyard, Kia watched the line of pilgrims snake through the golden doors on their way into the temple. None of them matched the description Brantly provided of her escort. The urge to pace kept trying to take control of her feet. Time was short to get to the wizard’s isle and Brodie still hadn’t appeared. Once again, she exerted her will and remained where she was.
Something drew her attention to a figure leaning against a pillar at the back of the courtyard. He was surrounded by pilgrims, but his clothing and attitude set him apart. In fact, Kia noted, he appeared to be patiently waiting for the pilgrims, allowing them into the temple first.
The last of the pilgrims entered the doors and Kia hurried after them. The senior cleric on duty tolerated no tardiness and once he shut the doors allowed no one in. And, Kia thought, that includes me. I’d have to walk around the entire building to use the postern door.
“Excuse me, miss. I have a message for the Oracle. Could you please escort me to him?”
Startlement at the voice near her ear halted her mid-step. The speaker was the man from the shadows. Yet she felt no fear, only a curiosity as to who he was. He stepped closer, bringing his face into the light. Warmth that nothing to do with the sun crept up Kia’s back, heating her neck. This is my escort. She scanned him with a new eye, noting his easy stance and the hilt of the sword peeking above his shoulder.
He held out his hand. “My name is Brodie.” A smile lightened his previous expression. “And you are, Kiansel. In the name of the Archmage, Lord Dal, and his lady, the mage Ellspeth, you are welcome to attend the council fire on the Isle of Mages.”
As soon as her fingers touched his, a shock raced up her arm. It will be an interesting trip.
Magic animated the golem. Can someone without powers stop them?
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