Page 46

“Yes, all is well.”

He probably told Khazmuda to give him time, because he turned his head slightly as if he was having a conversation with someone that wasn’t there. He looked at me again, his eyes focused like he didn’t want to miss a word of what I had to say.

“I don’t want to detain you. It’ll be quick.”

“Everything is second to you. You know that. Khazmuda knows that.” His face remained serious and focused, proving his words with his actions. “Talk to me,Zunieth.”

“Well, I’ve done some thinking and…” I knew I wasn’t a coward. I was someone who faced challenges head on rather than took the easy way out. Maybe I wouldn’t be as great as my father, but I would certainly try. “I want the crown…if you still think I’m worthy enough to have it.”

His reaction came on slowly, like a flower that gradually bloomed in spring. Brightness reached his eyes, and then the rest of his features followed suit. The happiness was infectious, the sense of pride was strong, and the affection was the deepest it’d ever been. “You already know that answer, Lily. But is this whatyouwant?”

I nodded. “It is. I was scared that I’d never be you. But IknowI could never be you…I can only be me. It will be a different reign, guarded by a different blade, but my heart still beats the same as my forefathers—and it will beat strong for this kingdom.”

A smile lifted his lips, and he took a deep breath. Signs of mist erupted in his eyes, but they disappeared before his next blink. He stepped closer to me and gripped my shoulders, looking down at me with pride brighter than the sun. “That’s my girl.”

PROLOGUE III

LILY

My mother had the strength to smile rather than cry, tried to be excited when she probably felt terrified. “Be careful.” She embraced me in a hard hug before she kissed me upon the brow. “Don’t leave me alone with these two for long. I’m outnumbered.”

I smiled. “I won’t, Mom.”

She gave me another squeeze before she stepped aside.

Hawk came up to me next, not as emotional as either of my parents. “Bring back some treasure. Something that will impress the ladies.”

“There’s nothing you can do to impress any ladies.”

He smiled like he didn’t take it too personally. “Be careful. And don’t be afraid to go for the groin when you need to.”

“I won’t.”

He gave me a quick hug then patted me on the back. “See you soon, sis.”

“See you soon.”

He stepped away.

My father was the only one left.

He looked at me, eyes devoid of emotion, like he was utterly broken.

It killed me.

My mother moved her hand to his shoulder and gave it a squeeze of encouragement.

We stood on the docks where the ship was tied to the pier. Our supplies and essentials had already been loaded below deck. It was a beautiful day with the wind in our favor. But it was a cloudy one for me, saying goodbye like this.

He finally stepped forward and took a heavy breath to steel his nerves. He’d supported my decision when I’d told him what I wanted, but I knew now that was just a front. He was worried and scared, probably up all night wondering if he should stop me from going. He looked me in the eye and said nothing.

“I’ll be okay, Dad.”

His eyes dropped to the dock below us. He still said nothing, like he didn’t have words.

“It’ll be over before you know it.”

His eyes found mine again, but he still didn’t speak.