New Release: PLANTWISE

 

“Her duties could send her away, though,” Glynna said. Sheneatly folded her legs and floated down until she sat facing them, so they madea little triangle. “Those of us with great Giftings have greater obligations tosacrifice.”

“Yes, and you show great wisdom and devotion in wanting toprepare against that day, Princess of Westerland. What I am about to show youis within your skills and strength. But be warned: the stronger the magic andthe more powerful the blessing, the greater the danger of it turning to poisonand curse. Your heart will be too tightly tied into this gift for your kingdom,and the heart can destroy when it is broken.” He tapped two fingers to hisbreastbone, then gestured at Arden’s chest. “You must be strong. You must bepure. And you must fight against bitterness, no matter how tempting.”

What he told them to do surprised Arden with the simplicity.Glynna laughed, when she confessed that surprise to her on their long walk hometo the palace.

“The most effective and useful magic is often the simplest,” herteacher agreed.

The plan, however, could not be implemented now. Arden neededtime to gather up the energy this task would require, a little at a time. Sheneeded to weave together the life and beauty and purity of Westerland allthrough the growing season and the harvest.