"Are they shiny marbles? Can I play with them?"
"They are not toys, Seraphina," Kaelus said, though his tone was fond. He looked back at his commanders. "Very well. Conduct your test. But if one of those orbs shatters and cuts her, I will have all three of you scrubbing the stables with your toothbrushes for a month."
"Understood!" the three knights chorused, instantly sweating at the threat.
Lucas stepped fully into the carriage, dropping to one knee so the box was perfectly level with Seraphina.
Gallahan and Boris crowded in behind him, their massive shoulders wedged against the doorframe, their eyes wide with anticipation.
"Now, My Lady," Gallahan said, his voice dropping into the soothing, exaggerated tone one uses to explain complex matters to a toddler. "These are magical stones. They are like... special mirrors. But instead of showing your face, they show what kind of special power is hiding inside your tummy."
Seraphina blinked.
