Amryn thanked him, then fell into step beside Jayveh. The princess’s bodyguards flanked them, not even attempting to give them the illusion of space for privacy.
Jayveh sighed. “I got used to my guards in Esperance, but this seems a bit excessive.”
Amryn disagreed. “After what happened last night, I’m sure the emperor isn’t going to take any risks with your safety.” Especially considering the previous imperial princess—Argent’s mother—had been assassinated. As had the former empress. It was a chilling legacy for women who bore the Vayne name. Amryn desperately hoped Jayveh would be the exception in such a bloody history.
“I’m grateful for the protection,” Jayveh said, “it’s just . . . overwhelming.”
Their footsteps echoed softly against the smooth stone floor. Other than the guards around them, and the occasional servant who passed by them, the corridors remained empty. Amryn suspected that Jayveh’s guards were making a point to take less-traveled hallways.
“I’m sorry it won’t be a very long walk,” Jayveh said. “I’ll need to arrive early to the meeting. The emperor wants me to get to know his inner circle.” She glanced at Amryn. “Can I beg you to come with me?”
Amryn’s stomach knotted, but she nodded. “Of course.”
“Thank you.” Insecurity wound through Jayveh. Her voice was softer as she said, “It’s been a long time since I’ve been involved in a royal court, since my uncle liked to keep me hidden. I’m afraid I’ll make some mistake and embarrass the emperor. And Argent.” The flare of pain she felt, just saying her husband’s name, tore at something in Amryn’s chest.
“You’re going to do wonderfully,” she told her friend. And she meant it. Even if Jayveh made a social misstep, Amryn had no doubt her natural grace could cover the error.
“I hope so,” Jayveh murmured. “Argent and I spoke a lot about what would be required from us when we returned to Zagrev. What would be required ofme.”
Amryn touched her friend’s arm. “You’re doing an amazing job, Jayveh. You’re everything a princess should be.” And if the emperor’s inner circle didn’t recognize what a gift they’d been given in Jayveh Umbar Vayne, they were fools.
“Thank you,” Jayveh whispered. “I just feel out of my depth. Argent promised I’d learn quickly, but . . . I thought I’d have him at my side. It makes all of this feel even more daunting.” She gave Amryn a smile, though it looked a little frayed. “I’m grateful to have you with me.”
A tendril of guilt spiraled through her. “Jayveh, there’s something I need to tell you.”
Apprehension flickered as Jayveh glanced at her, their footsteps slowing. “What?”
She took a breath. “Carver and I are going to Westmont.”
Jayveh stopped walking. She stared at Amryn, stunned. “You’re leaving?”
“Yes.” She winced as she felt the cutting slice of Jayveh’s sense of betrayal. “There’s trouble along the southern border,” she said, using the excuse Carver planned to give the emperor. “It may get worse if people in Harvari learn what happened to Argent. With Carver’s experience there, he’s in the best position to anticipate their attacks and defend the border.”
“But . . . you can’t go.”
Amryn didn’t have a choice. Not with the knights coming. “I’m sorry.”
“Has the emperor agreed to this?” Jayveh asked, her voice tight.
“Carver plans to discuss it with him today.”
Jayveh’s hurt burned deeply. “I thought you’d be here with me.”
An ache clutched Amryn’s chest. “I’ll do whatever I can to help you while we’re here.” Saints, the words were inadequate. “I’m sorry,” she whispered.
Jayveh glanced away. “I just . . . I’m surprised.” She swallowed hard. When she looked back at Amryn, it was clear she was still struggling for composure. A sheen of moisture shined in her eyes, though her words were surprisingly controlled. “I assumed Carver would insist on leading the search for Argent.”
“Jayveh . . .”
The princess quickly shook her head. “I know you and Carver fear Argent is dead. But it just doesn’t make sense that you could give up so easily. ThatCarvercould give up. Maybe he’s just trying to protect himself, but after everything he went through in Harvari, I didn’t expect this from him.”
Amryn frowned. “What does his time in Harvari have to do with anything?”
Jayveh stilled. Shock, sadness, guilt—too many emotions to name—arrowed through her. “You don’t know?” she asked softly.
Trepidation trickled through her. “Know what?”
Jayveh glanced at the guards standing around them. They had drifted back slightly during the tense exchange, but were still hovering. “Could you give us a moment?” Jayveh asked.
