by Leigh Walker
“He already had the rogue vampires ambush me. The rebels may have pressed him to act.” His shoulders sagged. “And now, the fact that others know I’ve met with these vampires changes everything. Such news is like a virus. Sometimes it travels unexpectedly, no matter what precautions you take. If the king hears of it, he will shoot me full of silver. Compared to treason, the show doesn’t matter. He would find a way to spin my assassination for the cameras, making himself out to be the protector of the Realm and settlements and every other blasted thing.”
“But still—sentencing Jenny and carrying out that sentence will not save us.” They would stake her, for certain, and it might very well be in vain.
“It won’t save us, but it will buy us some time. I promise I won’t do anything I don’t have to do. Again, my lady, I ask for your trust.”
“And again, I ask you to listen to me!”
His eyes flashed. “I am. I have.”
“I can’t have you making all these decisions—important ones about people’s lives—without me.” I stared up at him. “I implore you to take my counsel. I thought you knew who I was: someone who doesn’t shy away from hard things. But you continue to hide them from me.”
“I continue to shield you from them.”
“That’s semantics, Your Highness.”
“I don’t know what that word means, my lady. I only know that I have made my decision and you continue to doubt me—and that your doubts wound me.” A wounded look crossed his face, but it was gone so quickly, I might’ve imagined it. “You can’t control everything, Tamara.”
“Why not? I’m excellent at it. Sitting on the sidelines has never been my thing, my lord.”
“But sometimes you must sit it out,” Rhys said. “And that’s when it’s imperative to trust your teammates to finish strong. Now if you will excuse me, I must go. I have to prepare for my final date.”
“Of course.” But as my anger drained away, I became cold. I shivered as he left me alone in the hallway. The echo of his footsteps was my only company besides my swirling thoughts. I knew I’d made him upset. I wondered if he understood that he’d done the same to me.
“Tamara, darling, there you are.” Mira Kinney clicked down the hall toward me. “I’ve been looking everywhere. Did you find Maya?”
“No, I didn’t.”
“Hmm, I could’ve sworn I caught her scent around here. Too bad I didn’t catch it in the kitchen before I opened my big mouth.” Mira peered around, as if to look for Maya, but then waved her hand. “She’s a slippery little thing, isn’t she? In any event, we need to get you to hair and makeup. We’re going to start the date early. Everyone seems anxious and ready to go. Dae has agreed to be taped this afternoon, too, so we’ll do an interview with each of you. How does that sound? Tamara, are you listening to me?”
“Huh? Oh, yes, of course. Hair and makeup—I’m ready. I can’t believe it’s so close to the end.” I felt jittery as I followed her down the hall.
“Ah, my dear, neither can I.” Mira linked her arm through mine. “But the sooner, the better. There’s trouble afoot—lots of it. We need to finish the contest so that we can deal with the real world, even though I vastly prefer my pretty television show.”
I took a deep breath and tried to calm my swirling thoughts. “I’m worried, Mira. I’m worried about the Realm.”
She nodded. “I am as well. But Rhys is a strong leader, and an even stronger werewolf. He won’t let his new kingdom go without a fight.”
My heart sank. “That’s exactly what I’m worried about.”
She squeezed my arm. “Me too, darling, me too.”
Faking It
Mira marched me down the hall, intent on getting her footage. I would have to go and see about Jenny later. The only comfort I had was that Rhys, too, was otherwise occupied. Nothing could happen to the vampire girl while he was busy having his last date with Joely. That meant I had until the morning.
As we headed toward the salon, I caught glimpses of the outside world through the windows. The rain had blown out, but gusts of wind howled in the early winter sky. I wondered what Rhys was thinking. Your doubts wound me. I’d gone and done it—I’d argued with him, and now… Well, now he had an overnight date with Joely.
On top of that, Jenny was being prepared for sentencing. I again felt like a helpless spectator. I tried to push all my troubles from my thoughts as Mira Kinney left me with Dae to endure another round of hair and makeup. Although worry bubbled in my chest, I still found comfort sitting next to my friend as the estheticians went to work on us. I was glad she’d decided to stay.
While Dae was getting a fresh manicure, she said, “Mira’s giving me the opportunity to answer questions for the audience, and I think it’s a good idea. They deserve to know the truth—that the king is a good man and that I do care for him deeply. But I’ve told him my feelings. He knows my heart. He just doesn’t feel the same way, and I wasn’t comfortable playing some game.”
“How do you feel about the way your date ended now?” I asked.
“I guess I’m relieved, which I wasn’t expecting, and it’s not just because this is one of the last times I’ll have to be plucked and blown-out.” Dae was quiet for a moment, considering her position. “I don’t think he’s the man for me. I wish that he was because not only is he strapping and kind and a king, but because then it would be easy: he was right in front of me. But now that’s no longer an option, and I don’t know what I’ll do next, or who I’ll meet.”
“I understand.” I nodded. “Your future was within reach. There’s comfort in that.”
“True, but that’s not enough—not when you’re talking about getting married.” Dae searched my face. “What about your future, Tamara?”
“I have to wait and see what happens.” I put on a brave smile that masked my anxiety—at least, I hoped it did.
The estheticians finished their final touches. Mira set us up at a conference table in front of the production crew, and the interview started. I vaguely noted that Maya was nowhere in sight. Perhaps she was off somewhere in her seaweed-colored gown, still fuming.
I struggled to be attentive during the interview. Ninety-nine percent of the questions were for Dae. I smiled, nodded, and added encouragement when appropriate. But even though I was sitting at the table, smiling for the cameras, my thoughts were miles away. They continued to circle Rhys, wondering what he was doing, what he was thinking, what would happen next…
Soon enough, the interview ended. Mira left to join Rhys and Joely in the formal dining room to film their date. Dae and I were sent to watch the show from the library. It was still early, but we agreed that wine would be necessary to get through the broadcast. I poured us each a healthy glass. The sun had set, and the last of its brightness waned as we settled in on the couch. The wind grew stronger, rattling the windows.
The show started. Joely and Rhys were seated in the exquisitely decorated formal dining room, talking over their dinners. The candlelight lit Joely’s creamy skin beautifully, but I couldn’t pay attention to what she was saying. I searched Rhys’s handsome face. He seemed completely at ease, as if nothing had happened that afternoon, as if he weren’t severely worried about what was going to happen to his country. He smiled at Joely as they chatted. I had to give him credit—he’d gotten very good at playing his part for the cameras.
“Joely looks beautiful, huh?” I asked.
Dae smiled. “She really does. D’you think she seems nervous, though?”
“Maybe a little.” I watched for another minute, then something occurred to me. “Hey—Maya’s commentary isn’t on here! I wondered what happened?”
Dae raised her glass in a toast. “I don’t know, but thank heavens.”
I was relieved that Maya’s annoying voice wasn’t piped in, ruining every scene, but it made me nervous that she still hadn’t surfaced. “I’m just going to go and check in with Rose about it. Be right back.” I left Dae for a moment and went to inquire a
bout Maya at the production center.
Rose frowned. “We haven’t seen her today—she never checked in. Perhaps she’s taken ill?”
“Thanks, Rose.” But I felt troubled as I went back and rejoined Dae. Maya had disappeared soon after she’d overheard us that morning. I didn’t know what she was doing, but I felt certain that she was still angry.
The show continued. Once again, Rhys brought his date to the luxurious tree house. Our evening there seemed many moons ago, though it had only been a few days. I tried to pay attention as Rhys gave Joely a tour and she oohed and aahed, but my mind kept wandering. I thought about Jenny. As far as I knew, she was out in the barn, locked away. She’d seemed so petrified when I saw her, and I didn’t blame her in the least. She was out in the barn, probably terrified, awaiting her sentencing in the morning…
“What do you think of the episode so far?” Dae asked me.
I shrugged. “Joely looks lovely, of course. And His Highness seems taken with her, as always. But I don’t know. Maybe because it’s the third one, but it seems a bit boring.” Onscreen, Rhys and Joely held hands and stared out at the view from the treehouse. I was too worried about everything else to even feel properly jealous, a small blessing.
An idea struck me. Rhys was busy with his date until morning. Which meant this was the perfect opportunity to go and see about Jenny, to make sure she was at least okay for the moment, with enough nourishment and warmth. I’d promised her that I’d go and find her—I wasn’t keen to go back on my word.
“I agree,” Dae said, interrupting my reverie. “But maybe it seems dull because there’s no longer the element of surprise. Joely already knew all about the tree house, and everybody knows they’re just going to get to the kissing part soon.”
She poured us each some more wine, but I yawned. “I’m exhausted.”
Dae looked at me, brow furrowed. “D’you feel okay?”
I felt my forehead. “Maybe I’m a little hot. Would you mind terribly if I went to bed? I hate to leave you here to watch this by yourself, but…”
“I hope you’re not coming down with anything.” Dae arched an eyebrow. “Or is the show too much for you?”
“Of course I don’t want to see them together.” That was the truth—they looked awfully happy. After my conversation with the werewolf, I feared his easy camaraderie with Joely would seem far preferable to the tension between us. I didn’t want to see Rhys kiss my friend, but that wasn’t my only motivation for sneaking away. The idea of checking on Jenny gripped me, and I knew this might likely be my best chance.
I put down my wine. “Really, I’m just exhausted. If anyone from the production crew gets upset, just tell them I’m not feeling well and I’ve gone to bed. See you in the morning, okay?”
I was relieved that neither Roger nor Duncan sprang out of the shadows to accompany me from the room. Without a bodyguard, I could do as I pleased—but I had to act fast. I went and took a heavy cloak from the front closet. Then I drew it closed around me and pulled the hood up so it practically covered my eyes. I didn’t dare go through the kitchen to the grounds. If Nan caught me, I would be sent to my room for sure.
I snuck out the front door and down the steps. The light was fading, but it wasn’t full darkness yet. I wasn’t sure how many guards patrolled the grounds at the moment, so I moved quickly. I circumvented the gardens and headed for the forest, hoping to avoid detection by staying close to the firs. For a minute, I saw no one and heard nothing except for the wind whipping the trees. But then a werewolf guard stepped out of the forest, scaring me half to death. “Lady Layne, what are you doing out at this hour?”
“Oh! You frightened me.” I pulled my cloak closer. “Have you seen Elsa, my gnome? I’m afraid she’s gotten out.”
“I haven’t seen her, my lady, but I can assure you she’ll be fine. Gnomes are used to living outdoors.”
“I know, but she’s gotten spoiled, I’m afraid. She’s used to sleeping on her bed in the warm castle. She even uses a blanket! Will you help me look for her? I’d be so grateful.”
The guard nodded. “Of course, my lady. I’m sure you don’t want her out all night in this wind.”
“Thank you so much. If you could check the gardens for me, I’ll be in your debt. That’s where she likes to hide. As your vision is so much better than mine, I’ve no doubt you’ll find her.”
I waited until he disappeared into the nearest garden, and then I ran for it. I didn’t have a plan, exactly, and I also didn’t have much time. But I didn’t let that stop me as I sprinted for the barn. That was where Rhys had told Duncan to bring Jenny. I only hoped that she was still there. I hesitated when I reached the door, trying to listen as the wind gusted around me. All I heard was a faint whimper. Someone inside was crying.
I slid the door open and was momentarily stunned by the sight inside. The barn was typically used for parties and other festivities. In fact, we’d had the Coronation Ball there. But in contrast to the fairy lights and centerpieces that normally filled the space, it was desolate and gloomy. The fireplace was empty and cold. Small candles flickered throughout the room, and it was by their light that I saw the terrible state poor Jenny was in.
A Woman Scorned
Jenny was slumped on her feet, suspended in the middle of the room. They’d hung shackles from the rafters, and the restraints must’ve been made from silver. Smoke rose from her wrists. Her mouth was covered with a gag, but she still whimpered beneath it.
“Oh, Jenny!”
She jerked her head up, shocked. But at the same time, Duncan stepped out of the shadows, his arms crossed against his chest. “Why am I not surprised to see you here, Missus?”
“I expect it’s because you’ve gotten to know me a bit.” I went to the prisoner and loosened the gag around her mouth, pulling it down so she could breathe properly.
“Th-Thank you.” Tears streamed down Jenny’s cheeks. “Please help me. They’re going to stake me in the morning.”
“I’m not going to let that happen.” I checked the cuffs around her wrists. They cut into her, and through the haze of smoke, I could see her charring flesh. “Take these off of her, Duncan. Please.”
“I can’t do that.”
I glared at him. “I am ordering you. You can’t say no unless you want to be accused of treason.”
Duncan shook his head. “As you’re using your authority as member of the royal court, and my kingdom’s relationship with said court is currently tangential at best, I respectfully disagree.”
“Duncan, stop using such big words. They don’t suit you.”
“Fair enough,” Duncan said. His shoulders slumped. “But Missus, I cannot let her go. Her wounds are evidence.”
“Evidence of what?” I cried. “Your barbarism?”
“Our intent.” He looked at Jenny then quickly looked away. “Rhys sent a messenger to King Black earlier, letting him know that we would be sentencing Jenny in the morning. King Black immediately dispatched a sentinel to confirm that this was true.”
I shook my head. “King Black does not seem to have much faith.”
“That’s exactly the point,” Duncan said. “The messenger seemed satisfied with the prisoner’s appearance, but King Black could send another representative at any time. We have to keep her here. She’s our gesture.”
“She’s a living thing, not a formality.”
“Remember what I said about your bleeding heart? It’s going to get you into trouble.” Duncan shook his head. “I don’t like it any more than you do, Missus. This doesn’t sit well with me. But I understand Rhys’s position. Even if I didn’t, he’s my king—I still have to accept it.”
“Well, I don’t, so give me the keys. I’ll free her myself.” I stepped toward him, but the werewolf stepped back.
“I told you I can’t. Please don’t put me in this position—”
“Help! Please, help!” a woman’s voice cried from outside the barn.
There was pounding on the do
or, and Duncan moved closer. “Who’s there?”
“It’s Maya! Let me in before those beasts drag me into the forest!”
Duncan only opened the door a crack, but Maya pushed all the way in and collapsed onto the floor. Her seaweed-green dress was dirty and torn, and her hair was loose and wild. Duncan locked the door and eyed her warily. “What happened to you? Who’s out there?”
“Oh, it’s terrible!” she cried. “There’s a band of strange vampires in the woods. I went out for a walk, and they chased me! They’ll come for all of us. I know it. You must stop them before they attack!”
More pounding erupted on the door. “Duncan, mate, are you in there?” a man’s voice asked. “I’ve lost Lady Layne. She had me looking for her gnome, and now I can’t find either of them.”
Duncan opened the door, and the soldier I’d tricked minutes before came in. He looked around the room, confused. “There you are, my lady. I was worried about you.” His gaze skittered from Jenny to Maya, who was lying on the floor, crying. “What’s going on?”
“Have you caught any scents around the perimeter?” Duncan asked.
“None,” the soldier said.
“Not the vampires?”
The guard shook his head. “Not since His Highness went out there yesterday.”
Duncan jerked his thumb at Maya. “She said they chased her. They could be starting an attack. We need to go and find them—now. Phase with me, Jim.”
The guard nodded then started shaking violently, already heeding the command.
“Missus, here.” Duncan tossed me a set of keys as his whole body quivered. “Get yourself and the other ladies inside the castle. Go and find Rhys immediately. Tell him what’s happening.”