That night after we returned to my chamber, Amarisa and I stayed quiet in bed side by side. We both were obviously thinking about the Naga King's warning, but of course, none of us would let each other know.

"Are you weary?" Amarisa spoke softly to me. There was something in her tone, strained and edgy.

"I am," I said but my mind was clear and my eyes were wide open.

"Then I shall leave you to your rest," she said. The silence reigned on. The only sounds I heard was of hooting owls from a distance. I remained quiet. Then all my thoughts were scattered away when Amarisa pulled...