Crowned in Crimson Cinders

Chapter 36: A Dark Day

The day of Breya's funeral arrived faster than I'd anticipated. My days had been a blur of secret activities: breaking into dungeons, interrogating prisoners, and practically cross-examining my mother about the powers she'd tried to keep secret forever.

I had no idea what to wear. Black, obviously. But my wardrobe offered precious few options. Black wasn't a common color for me, which was ironic given the nature of my powers. I owned a spectrum of blues and purples, but only two black selections.

The first was a black dress that skimmed my ankles, its hem sparkling faintly, reflecting the meager light in my room. I'd never liked it. It reminded me too much of Amora, who favored such elegant, yet practical, princess gowns.

I reached for the other dress. This one was longer, dragging slightly on the floor, but its generous hem would allow me to run if necessary—a contingency I desperately hoped would not arise. It was plain, simple, devoid of sparkles or fancy details. I held the two side-by-side, and the choice was effortless. The first dress went back into the wardrobe.

I possessed only one black necklace. Its polished jewels gleamed, reflecting my image back at me. A girl with green eyes and light brown hair. I saw the face of someone who had failed to bring her sister's killer to justice. The face of a girl too weak to protect herself from danger. The face of a girl being forced into a marriage for the good of her people. I latched on the necklace before I could conjure any more self-deprecating thoughts.

Next, earrings. At least I had a wider selection there. There were about five pairs of black earrings I'd likely never worn. There was a first time for everything, I supposed. I chose the simplest pair. A plain black gem on each ear.

I had no intention of dressing up. I doubted anyone would scrutinize me too closely anyway. In fact, I doubted many would even recognize me. After all, who would recognize a princess consistently downplayed and ignored, even by her own parents? No wonder no one knew me. For the first time, I truly questioned the point of saving a kingdom full of people who only valued me for the benefits I could provide. I was marrying a man I didn't even love.

Then again, it was becoming increasingly difficult to ignore Darian's unwavering gaze. His feelings for me were practically on display for the entire world, yet he seemed either oblivious or simply unconcerned.

Once I deemed myself acceptably dressed, I made my way to the door. A guard had arrived last night, informing me that all members of the royal family were to report to the throne room before proceeding to the royal church. The church was somewhat close to the castle, but not close enough to walk, so carriages would be necessary.

As I walked down the hallway, passing Darian's room, I couldn't help but feel that he should be considered part of the family too. He would be my husband in a few short weeks, after all. To exclude him would be unfair. I didn't care if things between us were a little awkward. He was putting as much effort into uncovering the murders as Brock, Bri, or I. A part of me would always love him for that.

I found myself knocking on his door before I could change my mind. He opened it a few seconds later, dressed in his usual attire, black and silver. I scanned his outfit, assessing its suitability for a royal funeral, and deemed it acceptable.

"Aleah? What are you doing here so early?" he asked, then lowered his voice. "Aren't you supposed to be going to your sister's funeral?"

"About that," I whispered, unsure how to phrase my request. "I was wondering if you would like to come with me."

Darian considered my offer for a moment. "I don't think I should go," he said, and my heart sank just a little. "It's probably not appropriate for me to be there when half the kingdom thinks I'm responsible."