Oak stands, knocking over his chair with force. “We’re getting in over our heads. What can we really do? Your father is the king. If we step out of line, he can have us killed.”
I don’t disagree with him. “I know. But whatever he plans to do, we have to stop him.” My stomach tightens as I feel like I’m beginning to understand his plan, but it’s still unclear.
“For far too long, I’ve hidden in the shadows, scared of my own potential. It’s time I start acting like the queen I will be one day. The queen I want to be one day.”
Maines blinks rapidly, her face breaking into a slight smirk. “I’ll gladly honor you as my queen one day.” She bows in mock reverence, acknowledging the declaration I just made.
“We will make Daramveer a better place. Together,” I say, and she nods.
“I’ll do whatever I can to make our future brighter, my queen. I’ll serve you until the very end.”
I stand, the weight of their eyes on me nearly overwhelming. “Let’s hope the end doesn’t come sooner than later.”
“I’m going back to the House,” Maines announces. “Now that I know the crystal’s potential use, maybe I can find more information in the library.”
Oak winks at her. “I better go too. My father will want to discuss more about the upcoming trial. Let me know if anything comes up—unless you want me to come with you, Maines.”
She rolls her eyes but moves closer to me, wrapping her arms around my neck. “We’re going to figure this out. I’m here for you, every step of the way.”
“You promise?”
“I promise.”
Oak shifts, a trail of light following him as he disappears.
Maines slouches, her voice softer now. “Get some rest, Briar. You’ll need all the energy you can get.” A shadow takes her place as she disappears from my room.
Alone, I feel the weight of emptiness press down on me. I used to prefer being alone, but with Maines and Oak around, I realize how lonely I’ve become. The next trial will be announced soon, but I won’t tell Maines that. I need to focus. Thatcher may have a plan, but little does he know that we’re forming one of our own.
Chapter 22
News of the third trial spread quickly throughout the Kingdom of Daramveer. My father summoned all the competitors and their mentors to the throne room for the announcement. As we gather, my father stands near his cold throne, all eyes on him, just the way he prefers. Once polished and gleaming with wealth, his throne has dulled over the years—an afterthought he never bothered to restore to its former grandeur.
“Today, competitors, we are here to learn more of the third test—the trial of darkness. This will be the longest of the four and potentially the deadliest.” My heart sinks at the thought of being alone with these men again.
“The trial will begin soon. All you need to do for now is wait. Your goal is to survive and make it back to the castle. Whoever returns first is crowned our winner.”
Another vague explanation that leaves me questioning everything.
“You chose an item during the second trial. Whatever your bag holds will be the only thing you may use during this trial. No shifting,” he snaps, glancing at each of the men slowly.
A thought flickers in my mind as I recall the two gold axes I carried out of the freezing water that day. The weapons are beginning to become a part of me. Thank the Gods he’s giving us something to defend ourselves, but my stomach turns thinking about what the others may have left with.
Each mentor looks concerned for the competitor before them. Silas stands alone, unfazed, and unafraid. My father doesn’t move toward me but walks closer to Thatcher, where Elrod is stationed. Nolan huddles around Rohhit, while Calia chats with her twins in the far corner. Silas dips his head, lost in thought.
As I make my way through the crowd, Thatcher steps in front of me, blocking my path. “I look forward to the next trial,” he sneers. “It’s always so much fun, isn’t it? I’m especially looking forward to being alone with you again.”
My nails dig into my palms, preparing to swing when Silas appears, placing his hand on the small of my back. A thrill runs through my core, but I remain focused on Thatcher.
“Does being an asshole ever bore you, Thatcher? I’m bored, aren’t you, Briar?” Silas flashes a smile in my direction.
I nod as he moves me forward, taking me with him. Thatcher clicks his tongue.
We step out of the room, the hallway empty except for us. “You didn’t have to do that. I told you I can take care of myself.”
“I know I didn’t have to. Believe me, I’m very well aware of what you are capable of. I told you, though, that I’m protective of you and very much enjoy getting on Thatcher’s bad side.”
I lower my head, my cheeks flushing. “I suppose you are going to stalk me during this next trial?”
