Chapter 2
Gemma turned. She scanned the road, the woods behind her. She even peered up into the sky.
Nothing.
She shook her head, certain her ears—or perhaps the enchanted forest—were playing a trick on her.
The throat cleared again.
“Down here,” it said.
At her feet sat a toad. It was a lean, wiry thing, more legs than squat body. And was it ... wearing a sash? One in scarlet that was trimmed in silver?
“I am Sebastian, High Chamberlain of Her Royal Majesty Queen Francesca.” The toad extended itself onto its legs and executed a stately bow.
Gemma cast a quick look left and then right. Seeing no one, and not really caring, she gripped the hem of her skirt and curtsied.
“The queen wishes to speak with you,” the toad added.
She touched her fingertips to her collarbone in question.
