I hate that I’m always off balance with him.
As we walk, the repetitive banging continues, but it’s too far to figure out what it is. “What’s that sound?” I say.
“Stonemasons and artisans,” he says. “Delmetia’s House deals with all forms of masonry and stonework. Her talent can be found all over the Crystal City.”
As he says it, I realize that the bricks of the manor aren’t just green and yellow, but each one is slightly carved to reveal shadows in lighter and darker colors. We’re led through an archway to an outdoor garden backed by more bricks, with a path made of stones inlaid with green jewels.Flowers bloom everywhere, along the wall, in pots along the path, in a massive spray of color along every archway. It makes for one of the most beautiful spaces I’ve ever seen. Two women sit at a table in the corner, surrounded by an array of pastries, and at least four glass pitchers, each one sparkling with a different-colored beverage. Six servants wait along the wall, and it seems ridiculous, because there are only four of us here—and I’m fairly certain we could all serve ourselves.
I don’t belong here. I’m not a noble, I’m not a spy, I’m not a soldier. I’m better at figuring out if a merchant is trying to overcharge me for a sack of sugar than trying to determine if anyone is an ally or an enemy of the crown. I truly don’t think the queen knows what she’s doing, because I’m the last person she should have sent to meet with Alek.
But then one of the women stands, and Idorecognize her as someone who visited the bakery—and more than once. She’s an older woman with light brown skin and a waist-length mane of gray hair, along with a stern—though kind—expression. Her hands are full of gleaming rings, with a diamond bracelet dangling from one wrist.
“Lady Callyn,” she says, with the slightest emphasis onLady. “I heard you were brought to the palace, and I am pleased to see that our queen recognized your loyalty—and your bravery. I am Delmetia Calo. You may call me Della. We are glad you have chosen to visit the Fifth House.” She nods to the other woman, who’s easily twenty years younger, with black hair tightly tied back in a braid. “This is Firena, my companion.”
I’m still stumbling over her words about loyalty and bravery, but I curtsy to them both. “Thank you,” I say. “I’m honored to be here.”
“You arewelcomehere. When Alek told us your mother was an army captain, we were surprised that you were left to languish on the border, without any help from the crown.”
My eyes snap to Alek’s. Is that what he told people? Is that why so many nobles began visiting the bakery?
He looks back at me placidly. “Callyn is very independent,” he says. “Her tenacity is admirable. Or maybe it’s her courage? I still haven’t decided which.”
Warmth floods my cheeks. Every word sounds completely sincere.Augh, why does hedothis?
“I believe it’s both,” Della says. “You told us about the day she stepped in front of a blade for you.”
My cheeks flush. Ididdo that. I’d almost forgotten.
It reminds me of the moment in the arena, after Nolla Verin had pummeled me into the dirt, when Alek asked why I have the courage to stand up tohim, yet not the queen’s sister.
Have I been letting her comments destroy my confidence? Have I been letting self-doubt ruin my fire?
Della is still talking. “I’ve never heard Alek talk about a young woman as much as he talks aboutyou, my dear—”
“Wait—really?” My eyes flash to Alek, expecting him to brush this off, but he shrugs, denying nothing.
“Yes,” says Della. “I’m glad our queen has seen the same courage and tenacity, if you have been assigned to assist with the young princess.” Her gaze flicks to the table. “We should sit,” she says. “I haven’t been to court in weeks, but Alek has told me that tensions are high.”
A footman is pulling out a chair for us both, but I hesitate. The queen told me to talk to Alek, but I have no idea how open she’d want me to be with someone else.
Alek reaches out a hand and squeezes mine, and I’m surprised by the warmth there. “As you mentioned,” he says, “Lady Callyn is very loyal. She doesn’t like to speak out of turn about the royal family.”
Della smiles and nods. “I understand.” She holds out a hand toward my chair. “All the same, sit. Please.”
I sit. Beside me, Alek does the same. As if by some unseen signal,more servants appear. Juice and wine are poured. Sweet rolls are placed on plates beside us. Slices of cheese and fruit follow quickly.
“Thank you,” I whisper. I’m the only one who acknowledges them at all.
Alek is looking across the table at Della and Firena. “Callyn may not be able to speak openly, but I can. I believe our queen is still in danger.”
My back goes ramrod straight, but I keep my mouth shut.
“I thought as much,” Della says. “I have received no invitations to call since the night we demanded that Lord Tycho have his magic stripped away.” She pats Firena’s hand. “Firena thought it was a signal of displeasure on the queen’s part, but then the King’s Courier was exiled to Emberfall, so we know more intrigue is afoot.”
I have to clamp my mouth shut even harder.
Tycho still has magic!I want to scream.So does the queen!
So do I!
