Chapter Twelve

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I could still feel Lyle's hand on my face. His fingers gripping my jaw as he forced me to look into his black eyes. It didn't hurt; despite him wanting it to. He was weaker now. The electric feeling, I felt when we used to touch was gone; filled with something else in its place. A consuming darkness; deeper than anything I have ever felt before. He could have killed me, he might have even wanted to; but his father still needs me alive. And after all, Lyle is connected to the kings' leash. He wouldn't dare betray him. Or, maybe he cannot. Yet, a day after the court meeting I can still feel his touch, so cold that it burns.

I had sat awake all night, being unable to sleep. I thought about everything that had happened over the past days. The wedding, my discussion with King Bertherium, and the encounters with the crown prince. I was utterly lost, as was the rest of the rebellion.

"It is simple," Emery had said, "we leave. Get as far away from the castle as possible."

Ansel rose his black eyebrows mockingly, "if only I had thought of that."

Maybe Emery was right, as much as I hate to admit it. It would take a lot more thought, certainly. Although it seems better then waiting around for the king to plan another wedding, this time having it be armed to the teeth. But leaving would also be problematic. The Blood Guard would hunt us down to the ends of the earth, not willing to stay in the jurisdiction of Mayah. Not everyone would be able to come with us. Me, Natura, Xavier, Desmond, Emery, Ansel? What about Tytis? And Madeleine? It is too hard of a decision to make. And where would we go? I shake my head. It doesn't matter, I will forever be trapped here; even if I escape.

I worry about Lord Tanovan's men. If they come what will they do? The king has put their alliance in the faith of Prince Shaias, something I cannot understand, yet, am grateful for. The eastern prince told me that he had his father and brother beside him, and they wished to help the rebellion. I can't understand if he speaks for all of the Eastern Continent, or solely for himself. Despite his interference with Lord Tanovan, I can't find it in myself to trust him.

I stirred in my rose-colored dress, the fabric harsh and itchy. I clasped Xavier's necklace around my neck. Madeleine hadn't come to prepare me today and I was left to my own devices. I had found out last minute that I was to be at lessons at nine o'clock. It was jarring that I was expected to go back to my normal schedule so quickly after the events of the wedding. I shouldn't be shocked; ignoring traumatic occurrences are the Farrow's specialty.

I made it to Ramsey's chamber at exactly nine o'clock, my black hair falling miserably out of its up due. The halls were flanked with more Blood Guard soldiers than I can count; apparently enough to the point of not needing Tytis to escort me. The normal bustle of royals and servants was gone and the corridors were seemingly silent, eerily so. Had everyone fled after the attack? I didn't know.

I opened the door to the chamber and walked in slowly, looking out for stray books and maps crumpled on the floor. "Ramsey?" I called out, closing the door behind me.

"Even better," said a familiar voice.

I turn my gaze on the attractive face of Ansel, his tall figure sat at the table, his booted feet resting on its surface in complete disregard. He looked comfortable. "Ansel," I furrowed my brows, confusedly, "where is Ramsey?"

"Temple," he rests his hands behind his head, "he prays to the gods every morning."

"Then how—" I paused, "What's going on?" I half expect Emery's blond head to emerge from behind the wall of books; but after a moment the room still stood motionless.

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