Beyond The Depths

Chapter 16

I don't think there's an instruction manual for getting ready to go to an execution. Nevertheless, we all tried to prepare as best we could the following morning. I dressed in a muted version of my usual attire—a sleek purple-and-grey gown with a crimson shawl draped over my shoulders. Everyone else dressed similarly.

No one wore anything ostentatious—no crowns or anything—as to blend into the shadows. I tried to fasten my locket around my neck, but my hands were shaking so bad I almost dropped it.

The ghost's words played on a loop in my head: "Her reign may be over, but her actions, and the consequences following those actions, will be felt for months to come. Be on your guard, Princess. Watch out for your loved ones. Keep them safe." My body shook with a barely-suppressed shudder. When I felt hands on me, I had to resist the urge to reach for the daggers hidden at my sides.

Kai brushed my hair away from my face, his hands steady and soft. "Let me," he said, voice calm. I handed the chain to him gratefully, clenching my hands into fists. I took deep breaths, exhaling deeply. The last thing I needed was to have an anxiety attack today.

He finished with my locket, reaching for my hand. His eyes—wide with concern—locked on mine, scanning my face. I had no doubt he could read the emotions flashing across my face. "I-I don't know if I can do this," I whispered, voice trembling.

He brushed his lips against mine, lingering for a heartbeat before pulling away. "I'll be by your side the whole time. Jesper and Troy will be there as well, keeping an eye on everything. I won't let anyone hurt you."

As always, I was touched by his concern for me, but he misunderstood my words. He assumed I was talking about the impending execution—that couldn't be further from the truth. Don't get me wrong; I was terrified of having to watch a family member die in front of me. But that wasn't the reason for my increased anxiety.

No; my hands were shaking for a completely different reason. I had tossed and turned all last night, unable to dispel the ghost's words—the implications of them. What did they mean? Were the former king and queen going to be present today?

A knock on our door stirred me fron my ruminating thoughts. I swam to the door, steadying myself before opening it. Mom and Dad floated on the other side, the former pale and shaking, the latter silent and calm. I couldn't even begin to imagine how difficult this was for Mom. After losing Aunt Meri in such a gruesome way... This had to be gut-wrenching.

"Are you sure you're up for this? No one would blame you if you stayed behind." Even though I already knew her answer, I had to ask.

She took a deep breath, steeling herself. No. I will not cower. A regent is required to witness an execution, regardless of familiarity. I'm ready.

Her hands were shaking so bad, it took her almost a full minute to get through all four sentences. I glanced at Dad, but he merely shook his head. Clearly, this was not the first time they'd had this conversation.

I turned back to Kai, reaching for his hand. "Shall we?" My face was calm, but my mind was racing.

He took my hand, squeezing it gently as we swam out of the suite. The water had a somber feel to it; like every creature was holding its breath.

The swim to Nepptheas was grim and silent. Aunt Bella joined us there, silent and tense. I didn't see Uncle David; he must have stayed behind to watch Faye and Drew. I was glad—they shouldn't have to witness this. She hugged Mom, putting a gentle arm around her when they broke apart. Jesper and Troy nodded at us before disappearing into the shadows.

My stomach was in knots; I hadn't eaten anything yet. I wasn't even sure I could if I tried. The sounds of chatter from up ahead made my breath catch in my throat. Kai gripped my hand, his touch soothing. We were led to the royal enclosure, each throne with a clear view of the block. I shivered as we took our seats, Kai's hand never leaving mine.