Chapter 11

Jacob, who had been about to put a spoonful of berries into his mouth, paused. The utensil hovered inches from his mouth while he swallowed down the desire to dry wretch. Then, summoning up the courage, he put the berries into his mouth and nearly choked. The berries weren’t berries at all. In fact, rather than the sweet, fruity taste he’d been expecting, there was a very spicy, nutty taste, instead.

“How are those tandoori beetles?” asked the king. “I have them made following a recipe I received from the fairy Raja Orthanu from the Punjab.”

Jacob did his best to finish chewing and swallow the mouthful he had without outwardly showing his disgust, and once he’d accomplished the task he reached for the nearest pitcher of spring water and splashed some into the wooden goblet that had been provided.

“Not to your taste?” asked the king.

Jacob shook his head. “I’ve never been one for Indian food, Your Majesty.”