Inside, to my amazement, were my crescent knives and my chakram pouch. It had been so long since I’d seen them that at first I thought I was imagining things, but as I wrapped my hands around the handles of the knives and lifted them up to the afternoon light filtering in through my kitchen window, a burst of joy filled me. Rushing to my room, I found the strap and pouch that I used to hold them and fastened my weapons to my legs. Having them back was like welcoming home two old friends.
I then lifted the note that sat at the bottom of the box, and held it up to the light so I could read it. It was written in the same flowing, bold script that was on the outside of the box.
Miss Baine,
After much searching, I have recovered your weapons from an unsavory pawnshop in Downtown, and enchanted them so that you will not lose them again. Though I am still not convinced letting you live outside the palace walls is the best decision for your wellbeing, I recognize the futility of arguing with you and only ask that you remain armed and aware when you are not under my protection.
I fully expect to see you tomorrow at 1 o’clock sharp for your lessons.
Iannis ar’Sannin
Chief Mage
I grinned as I pocketed the note. Maybe I still had problems, but I had my weapons and my magic and the most powerful mage in the state on my side – who apparently was willing to venture into the slums of the city to ensure I was armed and dangerous. If that wasn’t enough to put a smile on a girl’s face, I don’t know what was.
To be continued...
Sunaya Baine’s adventures will continue in Bound by Magic, Book 2 of the Baine Chronicles. Join the mailing list below so you can be notified of the release date, and to receive special updates, freebies and giveaways!
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Acknowledgements
Thank you very much to my awesome beta readers Amanda Miller, Jo Walsh, Carmen Lund, Jason Stanley, Rob Brown, Rachel Berquist, Angel Ray, John Hamilton, Nicole, and Jett. This book would not be what it is without your invaluable feedback and insight.
I’d also like to give a big thank you to my editor and writing partner-in-crime, Mary Burnett. This book would not have been possible without her.
Lastly, I would like to thank Judah Dobin, my biggest supporter in writing and everything else in life. Despite not being a bookworm, you’ve somehow managed to make me a better person and a better writer. One day I’ll figure out what kind of sorcery you’ve used on me, but for now, I’d just like to say that I love you very, very much.
About the Author
Jasmine Walt is a devourer of books, chocolate, and all things martial arts. Somehow, those three things melded together in her head and transformed into a desire to write, usually fantastical stuff with a healthy dose of action and romance. Her characters are a little (okay, a lot) on the snarky side, and they swear, but they mean well. Even the villains sometimes.
When Jasmine isn’t chained to her keyboard, you can find her working on her dao sword form, spending time with her family, or binge-watching superhero shows on Netflix.
Want to connect with Jasmine? You can find her on Twitter at @jasmine_writes, on Facebook, or at www.jasminewalt.com.