Astra Has More Rebellious Thoughts

However for Velus to reach the door he would have to pass the cat, and he remained where he was, obviously frightened.

Kwan laughed. "He won't hurt you," he told Velus.

"I'll carry you on my shoulder if it will make you feel safer," Fred offered.

So that was how Velus left Kwan's home. The cat stared at him until he was out of the door, but made no move. Once they were outside, Fred put Velus down once more, and they went on their way.

With a fine illusory dress that would last forever, and which even she, Fred and Velus could see, Astra wondered whether she need worry about Minestus lifting her nudity curse. But she still had no choice about carrying out this mission, she reminded herself. She would never forget the punishment that Minestus had inflicted on her the last time that she had rebelled. [52030]

But then she remembered the dream that she had had of living in this land, beyond the Dragon's reach. She was fairly sure that his power was reduced here because of the native magic. Otherwise he would not have needed their help. And they had not heard from him since crossing the bridge, which suggested that even magical communication might be more difficult, the further they went. But was his power reduced sufficiently that she could defy him without suffering any dire consequences? And would she be prepared to spend the rest of her life in the Three Kingdoms?

1. The three continued on their way.
2. But then she heard Minestus's voice in her mind. That dress would draw too much attention to you. I think that I can muster up enough power to replace it by something simpler. And less permanent, in case you had thought of reneging on our deal.

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