He shrugged. "I didn't do this to myself," the King said evenly. "I met your Fae grandfather. He demanded punishment, and I accepted it. Sunkiath healed most of the wounds, I kept this one. I wanted to see how pleased my court would be at the sight of my blood. Their faces brightened when they saw I could bleed."
Kai stiffened. He had always assumed his uncle would kill this human on sight. He was generous, since when? The Fae is cruel when it comes to humans. Particularly nobles.
"He just whipped you?" His disbelief rang clear.
"For now, yes. At least he listened to me… and allowed me to return. But something struck me as I crossed the Monster Sea on my way back."
Ren lowered her hand. The soft hum of her magic faded, and Sunkiath let out a deep, satisfied exhale before slipping into sleep. He had likely flown farther than any of them realized.
"Did you pass by Saint Witch Island?" Kai asked, his voice serene.
