A Ranger's Tale by Mysti Parker

Author:Mysti Parker
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: elves, debut novel, elven language, debut, elven, debut book, elven heritage, stand alone, elven fantasy, stand alone in series, elven chronicles, debut author, elven tales, elven stories, elves and fairies, elven history, elves fairies, elven romance

Chapter Twenty-Seven

Jayden

The bookcase was in disarray, and I promised myself I would straighten it. Pulling three or four books out at a time, I stumbled upon an old poetry collection I hadn’t read in years. It had fallen behind the others. Its binding was worn and some pages were loose. I didn’t even need to open the book to remember the poem she had always loved. My thumb traced over the spine. I paced the room, as I often did while reciting:

I drink from her fiery goblet; my lover’s kiss ignites my soul. Hellish fires matter not; her lips have won control.

My mind drifted to all those years ago, when innocent rides became so much more. I paused, book to my chest, remembering her face as I read to her. And then someone knocked. When I opened the door, the book fell from my hands. “Caliphany?”

She blinked. “Jayden?”

“I see you two are acquainted,” King Leopold said. “Ah, from the palace events, I’m sure. Jayden is a fine musician.”

Caliphany’s gaze held mine. I picked up the book and laid it on my desk. “Yes, of course. My lady.”

I bowed and kissed her hand. She withdrew it a bit suddenly.

“Very well,” the king said, “I have other matters to attend to. This is the new recruit I mentioned, Ravenwing. I expect you’ll show her the ropes and provide adequate training.”

King Leopold kissed Caliphany’s cheek. “If you need anything, or if you find yourself overwhelmed, please seek me out.” He turned and left, shutting the door behind him.

A lifetime seemed to pass before either of us spoke; then we both spoke at once.

“Caliphany…”

“Jayden…”

She smiled, and my heart sped. I composed a frown, and went to sit behind my desk. She sat on the other side—perfectly straight posture. Her back had always been a work of art. I could have sketched her for hours.

“Your, um, uncle, didn’t mention who the new recruit was, only that she recently lost a husband. I’m sorry, Caliphany.”

She nodded, tears sparkling in her eyes. “Thank you.”

I didn’t think it wise to mention anything further—especially the fact that I knew the scoundrel she’d run off with and that I’d had them followed. If only Leopold hadn’t called off the search.

“Our mission is to train scouts in all matters of security. You will be privy to things most of our citizens remain unaware of…blissfully unaware. First, though, I think you should stick with the basics. The king tells me you’ve had archery training, so I will evaluate that, and if you are sufficient, you will begin training new recruits to use a bow.”

Caliphany lowered her head and arched a brow. “Archery lessons? You wish me to teach?”

“It’s not terribly difficult—simply guide them in the basic techniques…”

“I don’t think that’s what my uncle had in mind.”

There was that stubbornness I’d both loved and hated in her. It had been there the day I casually mentioned that we elope and forget her father’s madness, before he had me dismissed from his employ. I found refuge as a palace musician, and eventually as head scout of the L.

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