Page 69

“I’m also saddened by the deaths of those innocent people. I never meant for that to happen.”

He clears his throat and glances at the ground. “There are also rumors that you have been partaking in certain…activities…that are not fitting for an unmarried princess.”

Anger floods through me and I gesture toward the window. “The city is falling into the ground. I’m sure there are far more important things to worry about than what I choose to do in my private life.”

He straightens his shoulders and lifts his chin. “When you are a queen, there is no such thing as a private life. You belong to the kingdom.”

“I’m not queen yet.”

“Then perhaps you should think of taking a husband.”

His words shock me further. Is he talking about Ruarok? He can’t be. We are stepsiblings. What would people say?

Cirrus continues. “I have word that the kingdom ofImnor is sending a messenger to you from King Robertus.”

I know of the kingdom of Imnor, which is at least five days’ ride west of Askos. And I’ve also heard of King Robertus.

“Why would King Robertus send a messenger here?”

“Word has spread about how we are the latest kingdom to be affected by the rot. Perhaps he plans to offer his help.”

“His help?” I ask. “In what way?”

“I’m unsure, exactly, Princess, but I suggest we listen to whatever he offers. The gods know we are in great need of help.”

I nod. “Yes, of course I will listen.”

But even as I say the words, unease churns inside me. I’m losing control of the kingdom. I know I am. It breaks my heart, but I don’t know how to steady myself again.

If only I hadn’t released Ruarok from the cage, life would be simpler. He’s the one who’s been messing with my head. My heart and body, too. No one would be talking if he wasn’t around. It would just be accepted that I am to be the new queen, no questions asked.

However much I might want to, I can’t go back in time, and I can’t put Ruarok back in his cage…

Can I?

34

RUAROK

Today isthe service to say goodbye to the king and queen, and I am in torment.

Whispers are echoing all down the corridors, in the kitchens, through the courtyard and stables.

No one is mentioning me, of course. That I like to fuck is of no surprise to anyone. The princess, however…now, that is a scandal. I’ve changed the way people look at her.

The sky is gray and low, and a cold wind whips around us. The clouds skitter around the tallest parts of the castle, swallowing the flags that snap in the air. It’s as though the weather understands the mood of those gathered here today and is doing its best to mirror it.

The service is taking place at the edge of the pit where the King’s Tower once stood. A platform has been erected, which I’m now stood upon, together with the cleric, and several other prominent members of the king’s court.

Princess Taelyn stands on the opposite side, doing her best not to make eye contact with me. She’s been avoiding me, too, and that is worse than anything. Does she know Ileft the door open deliberately? That I made her say words I knew would shock anyone who overheard them? I did my best to make her appear as un-queen-like as possible, and it worked.

I’ve betrayed her trust.

And I feel sick at myself.

By the gods, she looks beautiful, though. Her long, silvery-white hair is braided and knotted on top of her head. Her pale complexion is striking against the black of her dress.

Everyone has dressed in black. Citizens of Askos have gathered as far as the eye can see, a winding trail of them leading from the castle, down into the city. They won’t be able to hear every word spoken, but they will pass it from person to person.