A new law? For the half-bloods?
A bit of a past conversation with Thorne comes to the forefront of my thoughts.
“Half-bloods are despised among your kind.”
“He will fix that any day now.”
Arion waves his hand, unconcerned, but sweat continues to prickle along my skin, even pouring down my back. There’s so much more to the story than I thought.
“In the Enduar Mountains, they have already had dozens of babies with these humans. We are kin to the Enduares, and even if we weren’t,Peredhelshave been a part of our people for as long as history can remember. Most recently, there have been tests carried out in the hills. A child has already been born, and in record time.”
My mouth falls open. A child?
Arion continues. “If I were a less understanding king, I would cast you out of this room for suggesting, even after I have carefully explained this over the last several months, that humans do not require years of gestation. They do not require expertly timed cycles once every year or so. Arlet could already be pregnant in this very moment, as humans have the ability to conceive a child each month.”
As he says the words, I sink a bit lower into my seat. Is he saying I’ve had sex? With him?
He’s lying about that to posture for his people, despite the factthat he’s done little more than kiss me. Will he take me to his chamber tonight, as he promised to do last night?
And what if the herbs are not really working and I do not fall with child?
Gods. One week ago, I bled for the first time in months. My womb could be preparing for the quickening as we speak, or this could all be another false alarm.
My eyes burn. I have no idea what to say or do, so I just keep sitting there. Listening to men talk about my body as if I were not present.
“Lady Arlet has been monitored carefully since arrival. She is in perfect health, and all will be well.”
“I can, in fact, confirm this, after reviewing the reports,” Castien says, then nods to the elf in the corner who has been utterly silent. I see him glower at the entire exchange. “Lord Thorne has also been very forthcoming with information on this matter.”
I blink. Perfect health? I feel weaker than I ever have. Do these people even know anything about women?
The lords, appearing to be satiated by the responses, nod along, and Lord Castien continues. “The other attendants were questioned and found loyal. But a gap remains in your consort’s service.”
Arion frowns. “This is true.”
After a beat, Lord Castien quirks up one corner of his angular lips. “If I may…” He gestures toward the doors. “My daughter, Vesilane of the Obsidian Court.”
A pale young woman enters. She moves like light in fog—graceful but unhurried. Her gown is gray, brushed with silver. Her hair, dark with an undertone of blue, is woven simply. She bows with perfect composure.
“Your Majesties,” she says. “It would be an honor to serve.”
Arion studies her. “You would lend your bloodline’s loyalty to the palace, then? Gods, Castien. Will your gifts ever cease?” He sounds pleased.
“My father’s loyalty is already yours,” she answers. “Mine follows.”
Arion looks at Castien. “I believe that question was directed at you.”
Castien nods. “She would be an excellent attendant for your bride.”
“My king,” Thorne says, interjecting from the shadows. “It is I who chooses those allowed near your bride. As warden?—”
“Your last selections were not so desirable, were they, Lord Thorne?” Castien says.
Thorne goes silent and returns to his seat.
“Do not worry, Warden. I believe our guest is merely showing us a kindness.” A faint smile touches his lips. “The court will welcome you. A timely gift.”
Castien’s eyes glint, unreadable. “May she lighten the shadows around your bride.”