“How many did we send?” I asked as the fish Casteel had cut up ended up on my plate.
“Not nearly that many.” A muscle along his jaw flexed as he picked up his glass and took a drink.
“That’s why I sent Thad toassist,” Kieran said, referring to the brownish-black draken I’d yet to see in his mortal form.
My mind flashed to the seventeen that had perished outside of Massene, sending a wave of anger and sorrow through me. They had awakened only to die. It would never seem fair to me.
“I had planned to get your opinion on doing so, but it was one of those moments where I was deterred,” Kieran added.
“It was a smart call,” Casteel told him.
Forcing a breath, I asked Cas, “Why did your father go to Pensdurth?”
“He escorted the envoy to ensure they made it through the Blood Forest with the least number of losses,” he answered, his hand moving once more to pick up some cubes of cheese, which, unsurprisingly, also ended up on my plate.
“Yousent him?” My voice rose. “And please put some food onyourplate.” I glanced at Kieran. “You, too.”
Kieran inclined his head. “Yes, my Queen.”
I dropped my hand to the table with a loud thump.
His lips twitched.
“My father found himself growing restless,” Casteel explained, finally plating his own food after he poured more wine. “I gave him something to do.”
Kieran let out a barely audible snort, which, based on Casteel’s flat amber stare, he heard.
“Why was he restless?” I asked, worry for his father growing. Valyn Da’ Neer was well-trained and strong. He’d make it through the Blood Forest. However, we had no idea what was truly happening in Pensdurth or who was there. We did know that gods loyal to Kolis had awakened, though. What was stopping them from entering the mortal realm? Nothing.
Taking a bite of chicken, Kieran returned Casteel’s stare from across the table.
Cas raised a brow.
“Okay.” I looked between them. “Someone tell me why.”
“I barred my father and most of the generals from entering the city,” Casteel answered.
“Why would you do that?”
“Many of the Atlantian forces still remain outside the Rise. Having them in the city would have added to the people’s stress and concerns.” Casteel frowned in my direction. A moment later, I felt his left hand land on my knee and heard his voice whisper through my thoughts.Eat, my Queen.
My eyes narrowed on him as I slowly lifted the fork and took a bite. The fish had been marinated in a blend of spices and citrus and was quite tasty.
Squeezing my knee, Casteel smiled and speared a slice of red pepper.
I ignored that smile. “And the other reason?”
“My father would’ve wanted to speak to you. And, obviously, that wasn’t possible.” He stopped to chew, his gaze sliding to mine. “I wasn’t going to let him see you in that state.”
My breath caught as I stared at him.
“Very few are aware of what really occurred.” Kieran balanced a small heaping of rice on his fork. “We knew you wouldn’t want many to know, especially if…”
Especially if I had no memory of myself.
Or was possessed by a potentially demented Primal of Death.
I took a breath around the swelling in my chest and stared at Casteel’s profile. “Thank you,” I whispered, clearing my throat. I looked at Kieran. “Thank you both.”
