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He grins, patting my hand again. “No, my pet. You have a far bigger role in this than you know.” His eyes narrow on me, revealing the pure evil behind them, so dark they seem to bleed to black.

Deep caverns of nothing. “You and your sister are not the same as the others with power. Your gifts are recognized by Vaohr. It is why you are so much more powerful than the rest. Together, you will usher in a new generation of priests and priestesses, brought up by the temple and chosen by the god himself.”

My breath catches in my chest. They don’t intend to just bleed us dry, soak up all of our energy, and leave us for dead as they did all the others?

He must see the confusion playing out in my expression, because he continues his explanation.

“Your marriage to Evander should be fruitful. He comes from a long line of those believed to be gifted, as we found out with his mother. So, though he is not chosen by Vaohr, he will do. We just need to find an equal match for your sister, which is proving a bit...challenging.”

What in the fuck does that mean? He expects Ev and me to get married? Expects Nimai to as well?

“I am so sorry, Father, I don’t quite understand what you mean,” I choke out, trying to keep my face neutral while I wait for a response.

“Your children, my pet.” My jaw drops to the floor before I can control it. “Your children will be those of Vaohr. The chosen ones who will guide the temple going forward. The most powerful people, returning to Vaohr and aiding in the cause.”

Evander stirs in the corner of my vision and I turn to stare at him, barely hearing the words that Father Mallory is saying anymore.

“The king and I have discussed this matter at length, and had intended to tell you about it tonight at dinner. But you have a very curious mind. Your sister already knows of her fortuitous future.”

Children. They want me to have children so that they can enslave them.

Make them work for the king and promote their fake god to the entire world.

To bring all of Azudora under their control.

And they want to use my sister as well. To breed us like we are nothing more than livestock.

I don’t dare speak, watching as Ev sits up, holding his head.

There will be a bruise for sure, but he seems alright.

Though he won’t be after I tell him this lovely new revelation.

“I’m sure this is quite shocking for you, to hear that you have such a bright future ahead of you when you came here ready to deem yourself unworthy.

But child, Vaohr has found you worthy. Oh, so worthy.

” My fingers itch to smack him. To drag my nails down his wrinkled cheeks and draw blood, to rip the flesh from his bones.

I steady my breathing once more, worried that the flames will engulf my body and the shadows will rip forth if I cannot get a handle on myself. I will myself to speak past my clenched teeth and tight jaw.

“Yes, quite shocking. But also, such lovely news.” I swallow, having trouble getting the words out over the lump that is building up in my throat. “I cannot wait to speak with my sister tonight.”

“Oh yes, she was also quite taken aback by the news. I am sure she will be most pleased to speak with you regarding it as well.” I see him glance at the pocket watch he has stashed in the folds of his robes.

“You really must be off, my pet. Dinner with the king requires much preparation for you and your sister. Evander can meet you there. He appears as if he needs a few moments to collect himself after receiving his blessing.”

That was no blessing. There’s a large red gash stretching across his forehead, blood seeping from the wound.

He’s risen and moved himself to the bench across from me.

I catch his gaze now as he stares at me, and there is a deep sadness in his eyes.

No part of him wanted to partake in that, and it drained him physically and mentally.

I finally wrench my grasp from Father Mallory and stand, getting my footing before I stride across the smooth floor to Ev.

His eyes never leave mine and I feel as if I’m drowning in them, drowning in the madness of this insufferable fucking place.

Unable to speak of what I just learned or hold him to ensure he’s alright.

He grabs my hand as I stop in front of him and laces his fingers with mine. The gesture instantly soothes me.

“Are you alright?” I ask, my voice low.

Ev cocks his head to the side. “I am blessed by Vaohr. I am better than alright.”

Right. They are listening to us. His mask is in place and mine needs to be as well.

“Father Mallory would like me to return to Castle Eccleston to ready for the dinner.” I want him to say he’s going to come with me, but by the look of him, he’s not ready to ride just yet. He probably has a concussion from that hit to the solid marble.

His lips brush against my hand and my stomach tightens. He lifts those molten chocolate eyes to me and his look turns feral.

“I can’t wait to see the gown.” He breathes across my hand.

The Keeper save me . This man.

I purse my lips to keep from smiling too wide. “I will see you at dinner then,” I say, and he lets my hand fall, a smirk gracing his face as I saunter away to the door.