In the back of Jewel’s head a mental clock relentlessly ticked, reminding her of the quick passage of time. The barrier might last another year, but that was only if no one tested its strength by slamming against it and wearing it down faster. She also shuddered to think of what Belthain’s politicians were scheming in her absence. No, the sooner all of the crystals were in place—and safely regulated by the various high priestesses—the better. Since they planned to leave the next morning, Clari spent the night in Jewel’s room. They stayed up until the wee hours of the morning talking. Jewel tried to impart everything she could to Clari but was woefully aware that Clari would have to learn her duties as she went. After all, the situation in Bryn was very different than the established Order in Thornock. Needless to say, they got a slow start the next morning. Jewel managed to drag herself out of bed when everyone else did, but she sleep-walked downstairs and yawned all of the way through breakfast.
