“You’re one of the new warriors,” he finally said.
“I am.”
“His Majesty asked not to be disturbed tonight.” He said it in such a snooty tone I wanted to kick him.
“Tell him it’s important,” I growled. “That Isi needs to speak with him.”
The second guard didn’t so much as blink. “His orders were clear.”
I stood there, my hands clenched, flames licking across my spine. For a heartbeat, I considered pushing past them or shouting out Trew’s name, but then I’d really look foolish.
They might grab me and fling me into a dungeon, where I’d rot until Trew came with a smirk to let me out.
I bit back my growl.
“Thank you.” I spun on my heel and stalked back the way I’d come. I would find him tomorrow.
Inside my room, I made myself shuck my boots, dress in my nightshirt again, and climb into bed, dragging the blankets up to my chin.
The truth was inside this castle, locked behind guarded doors and careful smiles.
I was going to pry it out of someone, even if I had to rip this place apart, stone by stone, to get it.
32
TREW
“You wanted to speak with me last night?” I asked when Isi stepped through the open doorway for combat training the next morning, her friends right behind her. I leaned in closer, savoring her light scent and the way the leathers I’d given her hugged her body. “I chastised them for not letting you in. I would’ve welcomed your company.”
Lexie nudged past us, rolling her eyes. Derren shot Isi a grin and followed Lexie, his ember-winged moth-hawk companion fluttering by his left shoulder.
Maddox shoved past my minx, making her shift herself to the side.
My growl echoed in the room.
He froze, blinking up at me, before looking between us. His lips twisted, and he gave me a stiff nod before moving into the room, joining Bryson near the sparring mats.
“Whydid you come to my rooms?” I asked in a softer voice, not interested in providing her watching friends with a show.
“I had some questions.” She studied my face.
“Had.”
“I’m no longer sure if you’re the one I should ask.”
It was all I could do not to snarl. “I will give youanyhelp you need.”
“Noted.” She eased past me, joining her friends who were warming up on the mats.
Gavelle, perched on my shoulder, made eye contact.
“Yes, I know,” I grumbled to him under my breath. “I’m not trying hard enough, am I?”
I sensed the bird was reserving judgement on that one.
He lifted off my shoulder and soared into the room, shooting toward the high ceiling.
I strode over to stand in front of the group, calling for attention. No need to look toward the viewing room. It was not only blocked off but also warded to scorch through bones if anyone attempted to enter.
