“To summon His Highness.”
“But you weren’t aware he was back,” I note, feeling my heart trip up.
The blood drains from Nolan’s face, and he backs up as if realizing his mistake. “Right.”
My awareness shifts to Asrai, and I quickly realize that she is visibly shaking.
“It’s you,” I murmur, my eyes drifting back to Nolan. “You’re the traitor.”
Unease slithers down my spine, and everyone in the room freezes as they all turn their attention to Nolan. Understanding ripples through the room, followed by disbelief.
One second Maxon is beside me, next he’s across the room, his hand around Nolan’s throat. “How long?” he demands.
Nolan doesn’t answer.
“I’m giving you five seconds to answer me, Nolan.”
Chapterforty-five
Maxon
My grip tightens around Nolan’s neck. He couldn’t be the spy. He was my father’s best friend and closest confidant. Acting as a father figure, he has mentored me since my parents’ passing.
“Nolan?” I growl in warning.
"Maxon, he was there when we made plans to go to the Evergreens. He had ample amount of time to let the Outcasts know what was happening. And with your departure to Escalle . . . ’
I shake my head, not wanting to believe her. A tight knot forms in my stomach. The thought of Nolan being the spy sends a rush of betrayal through my veins.
“Tell me it’s not you giving information to the Outcasts.”
I see Raiden move swiftly, positioning himself to block the exit. There is no response from Nolan as he stares at me. It’s true. A surge of rage courses through me, and with a thunderous bellow, I launch Nolan into the air, his body crashing against thewall above the fireplace. Slumped over, Nolan lands on the floor before attempting to push himself back up. My obsidian sword materializes in my hand, and I stalk toward him.
“Answer me, Nolan.”
Before Nolan even has a chance to answer, the secret passage opens, and three fae come strolling into the room, drawing up short when they see everyone gathered here. Kian, Tristan, and Raiden all draw their weapons. I let go of Nolan and face the new threat.
“Who are you?” I growl, striding toward them. “And how did you know the passages?”
I place myself between them and the rest of the room. The man in front is frozen, his gaze locked on someone behind me. The two other fae are younger, and shift nervously on their feet. One sees Nolan and pales. A cold sensation washes over me when I realize the leader’s stare is fixated on Everly.
“Don’t look at her. Look at me!”
The man’s violet eyes snap to mine. His long silver hair is messily pulled back, and a scar runs down his cheek, the skin red and puckered. Meaning he was cut using a spelled blade. He wouldn’t have been able to heal as he normally would, and judging by the shade of his eyes, he is strong.
“Apologies, Your Highness.” The man bows his head. “Seems Nolan misinformed us of your absence.”
I lock eyes with Nolan, and he winces under the intensity of my gaze.
“Val, I don’t know where she could be–” A woman enters the room behind the three fae, a look of panic on her face as she comes to a stop. It’s one of my aunt’s lady’s maids.
I inhale sharply, my fist tightening around the handle of my obsidian sword. “Someone better tell me what the fuck is going on!” I bellow.
Everly’s touch on my back jolts me out of my anger-induced haze, making me aware of her own emotions. I glance over my shoulder at her, and notice the glistening tears in her eyes.
“I know you,” she whispers.
“How could you know these fae? They are Outcasts and traitors!” Tristan spits.
