Page 32 of Blackheart

“Come with me,” he said, deathly soft.

“What?” My stomach churned. Had Luna been found? Was she in the burn pile?

“You are to appear before the king.”

I tilted my head.

“Are you drunk? Is this a cruel joke? Because I don’t think this is funny, and I’d like to go back to sleep.”

“I don’t drink.” His jaw tensed as his eyes roved over my lack of clothing, as if analyzing the conditions under which I was allowed to stay in this apartment.

Maybe he’d watched me come here and assumed I’d taken up the same line of work as Luna. Whatever his reasons, they had nothing to do with the king. I would believe Riven was here to bed another Blackheart before I’d think the king knew my name.

“I’m not Luna. While tempting, I have no interest in going anywhere with you. Goodnight, Riven.”

I went to close the door, only for it to be caught swiftly by his hand. He easily pushed it back open and let himself in.

“I don’t need your compliments,” he hissed, firmly shutting the door behind him.

“Oh, fuck off. You can't be here. The homeowner is in the bedroom!”

He gestured with his head at my lack of pants.

“I’m sure he is. Now gather your things. The king is waiting.”

My mouth opened, ready to start another argument, but his features were cold.

It was no jest. The king had requested me.

Was it because I’d won Orb Hazy? Had Ansel reported me for using my Nature?

“Why does the king want to see me?” I asked softly.

“You’ll have to ask him yourself.”

Chapter 11

Lyonsreach

“Little is known about the origin of the Sapphires, but we do know they come from the west. They conquer not for glory, but to drain.”

—Captain of the King’s Guard

Riven madehimself comfortable on the couch while I quietly gathered my things upstairs. It was easy considering I only had my clothes, some gold, and my cyanotic, green trophy.

Another knock thudded downstairs. I snapped my head around.

The homeowner still drunkenly snored like a hog as I tugged my boots on. I prayed it wasn’t Pearl security—or worse—an intruder attempting to take my gold.

I rushed down the stairs, passing by Riven, who sat silently in the darkest corner of the living room. He watched from the shadows, waiting for me to open the door. If it were a thief, at least Riven was here.

I exhaled and twisted the knob.

My eyes widened at Lord Ansel towering in the doorway, holding a black pack with braided straps.

“For Fate’s sake. What doyouwant?”

He leaned back. “Have I offended you, Blackheart?”