“In the meantime, should we venture into other towns and cities?” Luccan suggested. “We might be able to rouse more support around the common people.”
Uncomfortable silence settled over the table, which Isolde broke.
“We might, but they could support King Magnus,” my mate mused. “He’s using the Ice Scepter to melt the snow. That will gain him popularity. And outside of Avaldenn, I’m not sure how far his cruelty spread.”
“Mostly, fae were angry that the winter never ended, as much as it can in this kingdom, anyway,” Thyra said. “Of course, they heard rumors of the atrocities the king committed in Avaldenn and closer cities and towns, but it’s easy to forget that sort of behavior when it’s not directed at you. When you don’t have to see it and live under its thumb, and you have other matters to deal with. And especially when your hardships are lifted.”
“It’s worth a try, though.” Excitement sparked in Sian’s eyes. “A small number can roam cities. Not Thyra or Isolde or Vale—no one so recognizable. But they can get the temperature of the common fae. Recruit if they’re sure it will not be in danger.”
I arched my brows at my friend. “That means you’re staying here, Sian.”
He frowned. Not what he wanted to hear, but when his father nodded, I knew he wouldn’t have been able to go, anyway.
“I can offer services there. Many in my spy network are still loyal to me. I’ll have them put out feelers.” My father’s gaze shifted to the Falk twins.
It seemed to take great effort, but Isolde met his gaze and nodded.
“And have you learned anything of the Frør Crown or the Blade?” Lord Balik asked. “You focused on Shadow Fae, but your Hallows might be of use, too.”
“We have learned nothing new on those fronts,” Isolde said. “And you’re right. We need to look into those more. They’re hiding secrets.”
We covered a few more matters, and the meeting adjourned. I took Isolde’s hand as we left.
She exhaled, looked up at me. “That was intense. Care for a drink?”
“With you? Always.” I leaned closer. “Lord Balik gets spirits sent from the Autumn Court. Ones we don’t get in Avaldenn.”
“Did I hear you whispering about my father’s liquor collection?” Sian butted in. “If so, I’m in.”
“Not that you were invited,” I teased. “But please, take us to that trove.”
Chapter 18
ISOLDE
Sian took twenty bottles of expensive liquor from Lord Balik’s personal stash.
Perhaps I should have felt guilty about taking so much from my ally when, so far, I’d offered little in return, but I could find no place for such an emotion. Not when the day had wrung me out. And especially not when I was surrounded by my friends in a cozy den inside Ramshold, all of us safe and a bit tipsy. We needed a moment to justbe.
Near the window, Vale sat with his cabal. That clandestine group preferred the bite of Dragon Fire, whereas the ladies had taken to the less intense cinnamon-flavored spirits hailing from the Autumn Court. Though if Sayyida were present, I was sure we’d have a bottle of Dragon Fire, too.
My heart clenched at the thought of my storm-spirited friend sailing our way. I hoped she would arrive soon. Not just because I wanted House Virtoris for an ally, but I missed my friends. Missed Vidar’s kindness and Sayyida’s boldness.
“Do you remember when you said you’d make me a dress, Isolde?” a voice brought me back to the circle of ladies sitting with me.
I smiled at Marit, sitting primly with her ankles crossed. On either side of her lounged Princess Bavirra and my sister.
“I want to make it green to match your eyes and complement your hair. It’ll be so lovely.”
Marit clapped her hands together. “So you’re still going to make it? I’ll admit, I’ve been envious of that amethyst one you wore ever since I first saw it.”
“You’re that good?” Thyra tipped her goblet until it was at a precarious angle.
“I’m skilled.”
“She’s one of the best seamstresses I’ve ever seen.” Anna sat next to me, Thyra on my other side. Two sisters, one of the heart, one of blood.
“You’re just as good.”
