The roasted fish smells of basil and oregano. A familiar scent for Jack. Dad would bring her there whenever they stayed at the inn after cutting some moonwood. Such rare items were worth the trip. But not only humans value then, other animals do too...

“What a great suggestion, Jacqueline.” Solanus declares and readies his fork.

Not even mom calls her that. But after the topic of her name came up the night before, the summoner exclaimed how beautiful it was and she didn't have the heart to tell him she actually hated it. Jack mentally sighs and her face forms a weak smile.

“The waitress recognized you.” Kai adds. “You a regular?”

After the party explained more or less their situation to the guide and she let them in some rumors during that first night of camping, a rule was agreed upon: if either side had any further questions, then they could ask; although the other part wasn't obliged to answer.

“Yes. Father, I and some others used to be. But it’s been some years. Funny how Leticia still remembers me.” When Jack first heard that those people traveling together with the princess were neither her long-standing allies nor resistance members, the girl was shocked and apprehensive. How could they help save the kingdom then? But the group reassured her things would work out. And with hindsight, not dealing with a bunch of nobles allowed her to talk more freely.

“Expeditions for the lunar trees?” Omega asks; the kid is very sharp. Jack nods and her eyes fall to the plate in front of her. He proceeds with his train of thoughts. “Is that how Seth got the scars?”

The guide knows he’s not trying to reopen old wounds, just a curious boy with very little tact. He inadvertently did the same to the princess last night by asking her to talk about the current king and queen. Like yesterday, Solanus places a hand to his arm and shakes his head while pronouncing his name.

But hey, it might do Jack some good letting it out. “Yeah… A Great Black Bear was with her cubs near us. Some of the men tried scaring it away, so it got violent. Dad stepped in to save them. It grabbed his leg and threw him, then went for his throat.” The table shift in discomfort. “I swung the back of my axe to its head and it let go. The others came with torches and the bears ran off.” Huh, easier than she anticipated. And no tears, only a bitter taste to the mouth.

Aisha gives an awkward pat to the girl’s back, Kai squeezes her hand, Omega apologizes, and Solanus wears a sad smile when speaking. “I’m so sorry you had to remember this.”

“Nah. Father always say--" Jack pauses to correct herself. “Writes that memories can’t be bad, ‘cuz they help us learn.”

Thank the goddess Leticia chooses this moment to bring over a bowl of mashed potatoes, interrupting the heavy atmosphere. “Jack you won’t believe what I just heard is going on at Enseada.” Everyone stare at her. “There was some loud thunder or something and the sea went crazy!”

“Do elaborate.” Omega requests.

The waitress raises a brow, but complies. “Rain that won’t stop, giant waves, fish gone. Been like that for a week. Very weird if you ask me.”

-x-x-x-

Author's Suggestions (links on the description):

Series:  The Prince and I

Author: MariMontoya

Synopsis: In this struggle for power who will come on top? Zach never thought he would be caught in a power struggle between the Duke, Ravi and Prince Richard, but now he is Ravi's prisoner and is forced to choose a side. Though soon he realizes fate has its own dark plans…

My thoughts: Who doesn’t like some political schemes involving magic and a fantasy world with dwarves ‘n elfs ‘n all of the gang? Also the writing style is a big plus, very fluid and well-structured. And if you need one more reason to start reading it, think of how many cliffhangers you’ll avoid with the story being over 50 chapters so far. Seriously, add it to your list.

Series: Protective Layer

Author: Ratscout

Synopsis: What is a city where art and religion are illegal? It is a faceless thing with no identity like a human who wears a mask. At night, when he has no other business, Kay gives the city an identity and personality by spray painting it. But Kay himself does not even have an identity. He is a shell – a species born and raised to work for whoever is buying. But with the help of his only friend, Tarr the dragon, can he realize he is more than a tool to manipulate and do criminal deeds?

My thoughts: Everyone roots for the underdog, and Kay fits that criteria. Then there is Tarr (or Allison, you can choose) to add the right amount of sass and no-nonsense attitude. The plot and the synopsis let room for some character growth, which is always great to read. And the background of all that is rich ‘n mysterious, you’ll want to find out more about it. So do go read.