I didn’t like not knowing what I was facing, and for one second, I considered fleeing. I could hurry back to my secure little world and tell myself selecting my next gown or which high lord might make the best marriage match were my only priorities.
But then I’d never discover what happened to Addie or the children from my court.
No, I was going to get through this trial and if they made me, I’d bond with whatever was thrust at me. Then I’d be allowed to stay here long enough to tear this place down.
The boots fit perfectly too, molding to my feet. After tightening the fastenings, I straightened and took a few steps, marveling at how the leather moved with me without chafing.
I caught my reflection in the mirror and barely recognized myself. Gone was the princess in silken gowns and one mask or another.
This woman looked dangerous. Capable. Like someone who could survive whatever might be coming next.
Lexie exited one of the bathroom stalls, her gaze sliding up and down my body. “Where’d you get that?” She sidled closer and gave me a slow once-over, whistling low. “You look like a walking threat and a very expensive problem.”
“I—”
“You didn’t bring that with you. No one with elite training leathers like that would choose to travel in a tunic and pants that are so big on her, she’s tripping and stabbing our king.”
“I purchased these before I got here and kept them safe in my bag, knowing I’d need them for the trial.” The lies were coming from me quite smoothly now, and a twinge of guilt shot through me. I didn’t like being dishonest with my friend.
“I see.” She frowned but didn’t push.
As for my guilt, I wasn’t here to make lasting relationships. I washere for answers. For justice and revenge. I couldn’t afford to be distracted by her or perfectly fitting leather or the man who’d known exactly how to clothe my body.
Anyone here could’ve killed my sister, including him.
The thought had occurred to me before I’d arrived, but I’d let it slide away while gazing into his pretty golden eyes.
I yanked on my tunic, the leather suffocating against my skin, and forced myself to breathe, to think strategically. I needed to pass this trial, whatever it was. If I failed, I’d be expelled from Syllavar. And I’d proven my too-large clothing was a hindrance, not an asset. This leather outfit could make the difference.
I’d use this gift to my advantage.
My resolve thickened. I would lie when I needed to. Make friends because I’d have a better chance of surviving if I had allies. And shove my weak, guilty twinges down deep, where they belonged.
And as for Trew?
He was my enemy, no matter how gorgeous his eyes were or how drool-worthy his muscular body was.
Nia guided us to breakfast, which was a rushed affair—bread, cheese, and fruit that tasted decent enough. Nervous energy crackled around our table. Derren kept flexing his fingers, Lexie braided and rebraided a section of her hair, and Fara fidgeted with her silverware.
I forced myself to eat, knowing I’d need every bit of strength for whatever came next. The leather gear felt like a second skin now. I couldn’t ignore how perfectly it fit.
“Finished?” Malcolm called out from where he stood on the platform, his gaze scanning only our section of the room.
Cheers echoed from those who’d been through this, the ones with various small creatures sitting beside their plates on the table, soaring above, or roosting on their shoulders or by their feet.
“All recruits to the great hall,” Malcolm added. “Don’t dawdle or we’ll leave you behind.”
“And boot you out,” someone shouted.
My stomach dropped, but I rose with the others, following the stream back to where this had all begun yesterday, Nia leading our group.
Bryson fell into step behind us in his fatherly way, guarding the rear from threats. Last night, he’d proudly announced that he’d recently turned fifty. I couldn’t imagine coming here at that age. He’d told us he’d retired from the kingdom’s guard and after his wife died, he’d decided to try a new career.
As part of the guard, he must know something about the trial, but this wasn’t the place to ask him.
The hall felt different now, charged with anticipation and fear.
“We’ll be fine,” I said to Lexie beside me, even though my chest had tightened to the point it ached.
