Chapter 81

Rapunzel

The Prince Crow was so excited that he kept hopping from side to side of the windowsill.

"I found him. Me. Followed nasty fairy to dark, dark place. Hear voices. Hear not-crow Jordon."

Rapunzel wanted to rush right out and rescue Jordon, but she knew that would be a mistake. She sat and thought for a long time, rubbing the crow's head.

"Do you think you could guide someone to the dark place?" she asked.

"Yes, clever crow, tricky crow," announced the Prince Crow.

"He may not be able to hear you talk," Rapunzel added, "but I am sure you can do it." She went downstairs with her news.

"Are you sure of this?" asked her father after he heard her plan. "Angering a King is a very dangerous business."

"There is the Stone," said her mother quietly.

"That could be even more dangerous."

"But if she calls for the Test of the Stone, the King is required to respond," her mother said. "It is the only way to compel the King to appear."

"Then you can stay at home."