Vivienne caught the fleeting glance exchanged between Berius and Enyo—subtle, but telling.I’m willing to bet those ‘projects’ were either illegal, heinous, or both.
Her gut twisted.This is the man meant to take over my parents’ work?She had doubts he could even read, let alone navigate the delicate world of Antiquarian research. The very idea of him inside the hallowed halls of the Library of Metis was laughable.No. If anyone continues their work, it has to be me.
Vivienne smoothed her skirts, gathered her resolve, and stepped forward.
"Your Majesty," she said, her voice even and intentional. She dipped into a graceful curtsy, though every muscle in her body burned with tension. "With your blessing, I would be honored to continue my parents' zoological expedition and complete their research."
The King’s laugh erupted so suddenly, so dark and guttural, a cold shudder ripped through her.
"They called it azoological expedition?" He cackled again, shaking his head. The sound was indulgent and mirthful, like a cat playing with its food. "Your parents always did have a way with words."
Vivienne’s brow creased.What’s funny about what I said?She glanced toward the courtiers, searching for some hint of understanding, but their faces remained impassive. They stood watching and waiting.
The King’s lips curved into something between a grin and a sneer. "I'll offer you a deal, Victoria."
Vivienne bit the inside of her lip. She didn’t dare correct him.
He laced his fingers together, his rings clinking softly. "I will give you one chance to further your parents' work, one opportunity to prove yourself worthy of the Banner name." The predatory smile widened, but his eyes remained cold. "I'll even provide a ship," he added, his voice dripping with mock generosity. "For their…loyalty."
Something about the way he said loyalty made her stomach turn. "A ship, Your Majesty?"
"Well, yes. Did you plan to swim?" His laughter cracked through the room, booming and theatrical.
The sycophantic courtiers forced laughter of their own, some too eager, others hesitant, their strained faces betraying their discomfort.
The King let the noise swell, then fell silent, waiting for the room to do the same.
When he spoke again, something menacing lurked behind the soft tone of his voice. "Do you accept?"
Vivienne’s fists clenched at her sides.Something is off about this.The unease in her chest spread like ink in water. She searched the King’s face, but there was nothing to read except the smug patience of a man who always got what he wanted.What other option do I have?
Her pulse thundered in her ears. If she accepted, she might find out what really happened to her parents. She would need to figure out care for Briar before she left, but that was a problem for later. Right now, this was her only path forward.
She inhaled deeply, forcing her voice to sound more sure than she felt. "Thank you, Your Majesty," she said, dipping her head. "I accept your generous offer and look forward to building upon my parents' zoological research on the southern continent."
The King clicked his tongue, his amusement returning. "Theyreallynever told you, did they?"
Vivienne’s back went rigid. The cruel glint in his gray-blue eyes sent a jolt of ice through her resolve.
"Montaghue," the King snapped. "Clear the room."
The Chancellor bowed so fast it seemed reflexive. "Yes, at once, Your Majesty."
"CLEAR THE ROOM!"
The Court Crier’s shriek split the air in two.
Vivienne flinched, her pulse spiking.
The King barely turned his head as he lifted a thick finger and pointed directly at the Crier. "Start with this imbecile."
The man stiffened, paling beneath his helmet. As the courtiers began filing out of the throne room, Vivienne and Lewis instinctively moved to follow.
"No, Miss Banner." The King’s voice carried above the shuffling feet and fabric.
Vivienne halted mid-step, dread curling in her gut.
"You and your friend stay here."
