Painted (The Forever Series #1)

The Forever Series
Painted Marlan Ice Good Intentions The Devil and the Diamonds
Painted
The Forever Series
Book 1
Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler
Copyright 2013 by Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler Cover art and map by Eliza Wyatt. ISBN: 978-1620304112 All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced, scanned, or distributed in any printed form. However, the electronic manuscript is freely available online to download and redistribute at http://theforeverseries.com
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The Legend of Gideon Flynn

This is a story that parents in Hael Malstrom tell to frighten disobedient children. Once, in times long past, when dragons were still common and the Great Fault was young and the Valdenemus redwood was only a sapling on a bare hill, a pack of mercenaries and treacherous guards massacred a king and all his family: his wife, his children, even his grandchildren. Only one person of the kings household escaped alivea young man named Gideon Flynn, the youngest prince of the royal family. Gideon loved his father. He loved his mother, his brothers and sisters, his nieces and his nephews. He claimed his fathers throne with a heavy heart, and he did not wait long before he plotted revenge against those responsible for his familys murder. And because he could not be sure which of his nobles were ultimately responsible, he had them all killed. But it wasnt enough. Revenge, he thought, was supposed to satisfy. He felt nothing. He began to pursue the men who might have been indirectly involved, spending the contents of his treasury freely. He put his fathers enemies on sharpened spikes first, then their servants. When Gideons friends spoke against him, he turned on them with the blind zealotry of a man who had lost everything. It was only a matter of time before the

nation rebelled against their mad king. When opposing armies marched down the capitals streets, when he found himself trapped in his palace with nowhere to run, Gideon turned to the only thing he still believed in. He threw himself from his highest tower and smashed on the ground below. That should have been the end of the story. But it wasnt. When Death came to Gideon Flynn, it told him that his hands were stained by the pain and blood of his people, that it had no interest in collecting his soul. It cursed him with healing and eternal youth, and the broken king who had wished for death became immortal. It has been thousands of years since the fall of Gideon Flynn. The country Hael Malstrom has risen and fallen many times, under many names. A new line rules nowthe peaceful Torlo family, who have discarded the office of king in favor of the more ambiguous Grand Meister. The dragons are nearly gone, the Great Fault is old, and the ancient redwood dominates the capital city Valdenemus. But they say that when terrible things happen to good people that Gideons shadow has fallen upon them. He is the cause of droughts and calamity, and his existence is a darkness that lingers on his subjects to this day. And though no one has seen Gideon Flynn for thousands of years, they know he isnt gone.
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Chapter 1
Wyrrens father liked to say that if you choose to fight, then you must also choose to win. It was advice Wyrren never seemed able to follow. She sat in an alcove deep within the catacombs of Palacia del Torlo. Her blue silk dress was stained by four drops of blood on the bodice hem, and she could feel her face throb with phantom pain under her mask, though her broken nose had been healed hours before. The dead rabbit in her lap stirred under her hands, and she stroked its fur with enough force to make it lay still. Some women knew how to handle a romantic rival. Her best efforts had left her hiding in the dark. The ceilings stood eight feet tall, arches between pillars, lit by enchanted hanging lamps that cast shadows in all directions. Granite laid here on the foundation, white limestone on the floors above and at the top of the stairs. When Sebastian had shown her this place, he had told her that living with bodies under their feet had become an unsanitary proposition decades ago, and his grandfather had given the order to have the catacombs exhumed. Shelves that had once held corpses had been sealed with new stone, pock marking the walls in a lighter shade of gray. They used the space for storage nowcrates, old files and papers, holiday decorations, cobwebs, spiders and the occasional ratbut the

area had not forgotten its original purpose. An aura of death had seeped into the granite over the centuries, and it made the catacombs the best setting in all the palace for necromancy. Wyrren had quietly claimed her own corner after her tour, sure that no one would mind if she arranged the boxes to make herself a hole. Learning to animate the dead was not pretty at its novice levels. Her hand brushed the rabbits gray fur, felt the ribs penetrating from its side. The rabbits ears twitched, and it sniffed at her leg, then settled down and began munching at the fabric of her dress. Wyrren leaned against the wall in the dark and felt the sort of emptiness that followed physical and emotional injury. Maybe if shed been a better mage or a better chess player, things would have turned out differently. Maybe if she had somehow kept the rights to her inheritance, or if shed even been able to smile at Sebastian Maybe if she could have been someone else. She had been there for nearly an hour when she heard the catacomb door at the far end of the chamber open and close. Two pairs of feet descended the stairs. Wyrren considered a quiet retreat, but the room would echo and they would notice and ask her what she was doing. It seemed to be the least trouble to pretend she was another crate stacked against the wall. No one else stayed in the catacombs long. The newcomers spoke as they walked, their words an indistinct mutter in the background. Wyrren listened to the sound of their feet as they came closer. She expected them to search the crates for something put away, but they seemed more interested in arguing, and after a minute Wyrren sat up. That was the voice of Sebastian del Torlo, the man she loved. She strained to make out the words. Sebastian said, cast away no place. His companion said the point, then damned either way. His tone was snide, mocking. They mumbled again. Wyrren heard more footsteps. The rabbit in her lap tried to jump from her arms and as she
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restrained it, it occurred to her that the animal had better ears than she did; why not use it? Wyrren shut her eyes and focused on the animal, her hands around the rabbits face. She had seen people die. Death was no strangerher familiarity made it easier to connect with the bones and body, and when she finished the words became clear. spoken like a fanatic in denial, the unknown man said. Wyrren heard rats in the walls, insects burrowing in the rotting wood of a crate, the wind of her own breathing, the drumbeat of her heart, the distant thud of footsteps overhead, the scuff of the mens shoes. You keep doing the same thing over and over, expecting different results. Im dedicated, Sebastian said. Someday Ill be rewarded for my efforts, Lowar. Youre losing your mind under your facade, the first man Lowarreplied. I wouldnt expect you to understand, Sebastian said. You dont know anything. But by all means, give me an excuse to string you up. Lowar laughed. I can think of a few well-placed words that would have some very interesting people asking some very interesting questions, Grand Meister. Sebastian was silent for a moment. Whats your price this time? Who said anything about a price? Then why You havent been listening, have you? I dont want anything this time. Im trying to give you a warning, Lowar said. This is the end of the Torlo line, Grand Meister. Youre falling to pieces, and soon you wont be of any use to me. Wyrren heard the rustle of fabric, the shift of Sebastians weight. Of use to you. Just how deluded have you become, Lowar? Lowar laughed. Why else do you think Ive let you live like this for so long? I suggest you put your affairs in order, Grand Meister. Id hate to see Hael Malstrom in a crisis, after all weve been through. The turn of Sebastians shoe, then a loud, dull smack. Lowar

stumbled and swore. If you try anything Sebastian said. Lowar chuckled. You want to do this here? Really? he asked. The chuckle became a laugh. With all the palace over our heads? Wyrren heard roaring wind, followed by a crash of wood so loud in her amplified hearing that Wyrren gave a yelp of pain, dropped the rabbit and covered her own ears with her hands. She looked up and saw Sebastians body in a broken crate a few yards in front of her, fractured wood scattered liberally around him. Wyrrens mouth dropped open beneath her mask. Sebastian raised his head and pushed himself to his feet, fists clenched. Splintered wood fell around him, but he seemed more angry than hurt. Remember what happened last time we fought near a city? Lowar called. Why dont you call your crows? Im sure theyd love to help. Im going to rip your heart out and feed it to you, Lowar! Why wasnt Sebastian calling his bodyguards? I didnt think so. Pity. Wyrren heard Lowars footsteps walking away. Thats all for now. Consider yourself warned! Youre not going to win this! Sebastian yelled back. When everythings said and done, theres going to be one king on the board! And its going to be me, do you hear?! Me! Lowar mounted the steps at the far end of the catacombs. The door clanged behind him, echoed. The lights rocked, their shadows subtly shifting on the floor. Sebastian collapsed on the nearest crate and buried his face in his hands. * * * That morning Wyrren had woken at dawn, laid in bed for a time and stared at the sunlight on her ceiling. She savored its color and glow, the way it streamed and shifted, the dust flecks so clearly illuminated. No one appreciated light like someone who had been raised underground.
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She bathed in a claw foot tub enchanted to fill itself on command. She scrubbed her skin with sponges and rubbed herself with expensive oils and soaps. Flocks of birds were carved into the screen that separated her bath from the rest of the room. Sparkling ornaments hung in her windows, shelves and shelves of books lined the walls, rugs covered the floor, silk flowers sprawled in painted vases. Wyrren Jadis was twenty years old, her hair gold, her eyes blue, her stature tall, her figure too thin for curves, her skin the color of old ice. She never knew what to do with her arms, so she usually stood with her hands clasped unnecessarily tight. In her homeland her coloring marked her as a woman of breedingshe had once been heir to a duchy, and for an afternoon she had been queen of Marlabut here her colorless skin made her an oddity, a foreigner from a land known for assassins and icy wastes, prone to sunburn in the fertile north. And while her features were pleasant when taken on their own, Wyrren had been born with a rare disfigurement: she could not change her expression. Her eyes and mouth hung limp; She tended to stare and could not smile. Her strong, clear voice was a recent development, a spell Sebastian had crafted for her. Shed spent most of her life slurring her words until shed taken to avoiding social interaction altogether unless it involved writing letters. When Wyrren had arrived, Sebastian del Torlo, Hael Malstroms ruler, had welcomed her. She might have offered him jewels for political asylum, but he had given her and her companions good rooms in his opulent palace, new wardrobes in the local fashions, a generous allowance, a place beside him at his own table at meals, a pledge of protection, access to the palace entire, and a guarantee that Wyrren would be welcome as long as she wished to stay. Wyrren had not dreamed of such generosity. She failed to mention her part in the former King de Marlas death, or the execution waiting for her should she ever return home. Every evening she had been invited to his private office with its wood

panels and tall windows, and they would play chess and talk of history, politics, magic, mathematics. No crown for Sebastian; he wore a pendant instead, a double-breasted suit instead of a robe, and his throne was a seat amid the high council. He had slanted eyes and high cheekbones, and his long, very straight brown hair was usually tied behind him with a white ribbon. Sebastians mother had been a foreigner, brought back from the furthest reaches of the world, and Wyrren always found his features exotic and alluring. There had been times when she could catch him looking at her in his office, at the dinner table, across the room at social gatherings, and he would smile and look elsewhere. She had thought it meant something. Since Sebastian had confessed that she wasnt a suitable match five weeks ago, she had worn a mask over the lower half of her paralyzed face: a painted smile to disguise the slack, dull features that nature had given her. And though they still played chess every night, his smiles were no longer directed at her. Every day Wyrrens younger stepsister Ana let herself into the room and picked out Wyrrens clothes: blue satin with a wide, round neck today. Ana dressed her, brushed her hair, filled in Wyrrens pale eyebrows and eyelashes so they could be seen against her skin. Ana had taste. Ana had style. Ana was a brown-haired beauty, and she knew it. Youll never guess what I heard, Ana said. Ana was a gossip. Yesterday afternoon, Sebastians new fiance-to-be had arrived at the palace: an athlete in a white dress with a company of armored women. Whatever news was to be had, it most certainly had something to do with Lady Kartania Reise, and it made Wyrren severely depressed. Can we skip this today, Ana? No, Ana said, and continued brushing Wyrrens hair. Kearn had to give one of Kartanias girls a good, long talk about assaulting the palace guard last night. She was walking by one of the men, and he started cat-calling? So she challenged him to a duel, and when he
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protested, she beat the crap out of him. Youre kidding, Wyrren said. Bethy said so. The Doppel girls are brutes. They ought to be wearing horned helmets and eating turkey legs at every meal. Wyrren pictured the encounter for a moment. As much as she didnt want those women here, she hated boorish behavior more. I hate to say this, but that girl may have something there. Of course, it had probably become severely distorted in the retelling. Dont say that. Honorable men are hell to manipulate, Ana said. Beyond that lets see. Theres a man with Kartania, coming as an escort or something. Apparently hes one of High Chancellor Jolcimers advisers. Lucky man, right? One of him, a dozen women in his charge? A dozen women who will assault anyone caught ogling them? Wyrren asked. Ana paused. Well. It sounded good in theory. Keep going, Wyrren said, resigning herself to her sisters stories. Whats so interesting about this adviser? You should have been at dinner last night, Ana said. The adviserhis name is Edward Lowar, if Im remembering right walked right up to Sebastian and challenged him to a game of chess. She finished brushing Wyrrens hair and helped her put on the mask. The wager is enormous. Lowar must be putting his life savings on this; all in diamonds, too. And you should have seen the look on Sebastians face. I dont think they like each other. Lowars going to lose a fortune, Wyrren said. Sebastian only does two things. He works and he plays chess. I dont know if hes ever lost to anyone. How about eating? Ana asked. Part of his job. Sleeping? Does he sleep? Ana grinned. Not to my knowledge.
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Ana laughed and stepped away. There. You can get up now, youre done. She leaned close to the mirror and touched up her full lips with scarlet lipstick. The games scheduled at the rear courtyard after lunch. Some of Kartanias girls had these knowing smirks on their faces when the offer was made, and from what one of them said to the staff, this Lowars supposed to be an excellent player. He might stand a chance. Perhaps Ill play him myself then. He can earn that fortune back from me. Oh, come on. Come with me. Itll be fun. You like chess. I like keeping my routine, too, Wyrren said. After lunch is my necromancy practice. They headed into the hall together, locking Wyrrens suite behind them. It wont kill you to skip it for a day. My routine keeps me disciplined. You have enough discipline for four of five normal people, Ana quipped. I think you should come. Youd enjoy it. Or are we just avoiding Sebastian now that his ladys here, hmm? Wyrren wasnt sure how to answer that question. Watching a man lose a fortune isnt my idea of a good time, Ana. As for Sebastian Im not avoiding him, exactly. Im still expected for our usual game in his office tonight. Though she dreaded going. What was she going to say to him? You dont have to give up, you know, Ana said, her voice quieting. Theyre not engaged. Engaged to be engaged, Wyrren answered. Its a political match. Theyve only just met. Its a smart move. Hael Malstrom and Doppel have been at odds for decades. Maybe even centuries. And Kartania Riese had the right connections, the right position, and she could smile: everything Wyrren lacked. Wyrren and Ana turned into the main hallway, which had tall east-facing windows that threw light in golden stripes across the crown molding and violet plush carpet.
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Wyrren, Ana said, and frowned. One of the first things were taught in courtesan work is that people hardly ever make logical decisions. If Sebastian is convinced that he wants you, hell find a way to excuse himself. You could change Sebastians mind. He told me weeks ago that I wasnt a good match. You could change his mind. Ana stopped and crossed her arms. With what? Wyrren stopped as well and faced her sister. Ana stood in a patch of sunlight, Wyrren in shadow. He had my interest, and he knew it. I didnt withhold anything. My assets are my intelligence and my character, and hes turned me down. Theres nothing more I can offer him. Bullshit. Seduce him. The idea was both ridiculous and appalling. I cant do that. Why not? Besides the part where it would never work? Not that shed try it even so, but that was the first thing that came to mind. Because because Sebastian made a choice, Ana. He didnt choose me. I dont like it, but I cant love him one minute, then try to control him the next. She couldnt bear the thought of being refused again. And who was she, to look for his attention anyway? He was her better, the ruler of a great country, an accomplished mage, a respected leader, with all the power and privilege that came with. She had no right. Its time we moved on. Ana was in the process of rolling her eyes, and she gave a pained sigh. Wyrren, I love you, Ana said, and brushed her sisters shoulder as she passed. But sometimes youre an idiot. And why is that? Wyrren asked. Because you still think that people should make sense. * * * The dining hall had been rearranged, and a young, pretty brunette
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in a cranberry dress had been given Wyrrens seat: Lady Kartania Reise, daughter of Doppels High Chancellor. Beside her sat eleven women who wore boots instead of heels, their skirts split at the sides showing pants beneath, fur trim at their sleeves instead of lace, hair in braids, braces on their wrists, arms thick with muscles. They talked and laughed louder than the rest of the hall, and Wyrren saw one near the end summon one of the kitchen staff by banging her mug on the table. The head butler, who was passing by, cringed. Youre staring, Ana whispered, and took Wyrrens arm to lead her to the other end of the table. On Sebastians left sat the seven members of his elite bodyguard, collectively known as the murder. Their uniforms were black with silver edging, and crow feathers had been sewn into the base of their collars. Kearn Nosland sat on Sebastians left, a quiet man with shoulder length silver hair. Like Wyrren, Kearn wore a mask over his mouth except at meals, where he revealed an ugly scar where his cheek had once been sliced to his ear on his left side. As head of the murder, Kearn was not only in charge of palace security, but in an emergency could take control of the citys law enforcement as well. Corvin sat beside Kearn. He was a stringy, unhealthy looking man with dark circles under his eyes, his black hair spiked down around his face. He had a narrow jaw, his mouth was set in an eternal scowl, and he always wore an orange scarf, black clothes, and twin bandoliers of knives. As Wyrren recalled, Corvin was a demon of some sort, though she never heard the details, and Corvin had no interest in interacting with her. Next sat Faril, Ornil, and Undil: elementals and identical triplets with round faces and curly brown hair. One was slow-witted, one was cruel, and the last was a charmer. Like Corvin, Wyrren didnt speak with them often, and she could not tell them apart. The last two members of the murder were a pair of brothers named Fervius and Verrus. They had been men once, soldiers who were killed
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in action centuries ago, their memories and personalities summoned and crafted into golems projecting flesh-and-blood human form. Fervius was tall with dark hair, while Verrus had a wide, muscular boxers build, his red hair shaved, and a perpetual grin, which widened when he saw Ana come to sit down beside him. Morning, sweet thing, Verrus said. Ana kissed his cheek and scooted closer to him. Wyrren made a mental note to never let those two sit together again. Ana gossiped and flirted; Verrus mirrored her. Wyrren looked the other direction and spent breakfast pretending not to know either of them. The serving staff brought her a hoppy beer, creamed potatoes, dropped eggs on toast, and thick cuts of bacon, well done. Every few minutes the Doppel women would shout their conversation, bang their mugs, laugh uproariously. Ana smirked. Someday, someones going to have to learn the meaning of inside voices. Wyrren excused herself from the meal early, and couldnt help looking at Sebastian on her way out. Sebastian didnt notice, but Kartania Reise did. Her eyes met Wyrrens for a moment before Wyrren continued on her way, walking a little faster than usual. <The chess match is right after lunch> Anas voice sounded in Wyrrens head. Wyrren answered, and turned into the hall to the library. The palace library was a multi-story love letter to the written word. As large as the great hall and four stories high, it curved like a shell and took up an entire tower to itself. Three spiral staircases let the patrons onto the second, third, and fourth galleries, where sliding ladders ten feet high allowed patrons access to the top levels. The Grand Meisters of Hael Malstrom loved books so much that their collection contained over a quarter million volumes. Students attending the university across the city often schemed and worked their best connections to be allowed
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access to the palace. The air smelled like paper, and the desks between the shelves felt like home. Wyrren spent nearly an hour climbing ladders, books in one arm, her dress skirt held in the other. She found books on truename necromancy, truename ice magic, and truename theory, piling them high around a table shed claimed. By late morning she had two books open, and was busy scratching notes with a squeaky black quill, oblivious to the other patrons until a shadow fell over her light and a woman cleared her throat. Excuse me, but are you Lady Jadis? Wyrrens quill stopped mid-word, blotting her letter with too much ink, and she looked up into the face of Kartania Reise. Two other girls accompanied Kartania. The smaller of the two couldnt be older than fourteen, and she eyed the titles in Wyrrens pile. The other sported a dark tan, and stood immobile with her arms crossed. Kartania smiled pleasantly. My name is Kartania Reise, shieldmaiden of Maeranya, she introduced herself. This is big Julita and thats Thera, our youngest initiate. Wyrren felt the urge to protect her books from them. Lady Wyrren Jadis de Renideo, of Marla, she said. Pleased to meet you all. And you. Without invitation, Kartania drew up a chair and sat down, smiling at Wyrren with her hands folded on the table. I wanted to meet the guest weve heard so much about. Im unsure that there is much to tell. Im very flattered, however, Wyrren said, even while she reached to contact her sister. <Ana, help me.> Is it true that all Marlans are assassins? Thera asked. No, Wyrren said. Are you an assassin? Thera asked. Im a scholar, Wyrren said. A mathematician. Thera looked disappointed and scowled. Math? Really? <Im on my way to the library,> Ana sent. <Whats wrong?>
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<Kartanias cornered me at my desk,> Wyrren replied. Ana paused. <Please tell me you didnt just call me out for that.> Wyrren replied. So, Kartania said. Why dont you tell me how you met Sebastian? Id love to hear more about him. <He was so good looking!> Ana continued. <Ana!> Lady Jadis? Kartania prompted. Wyrren exhaled. We were trading partners, she said. Hael Malstrom exports food and textiles south, and we ship precious metals and jewels in return. Its business. So youre wealthy, Kartania replied. Whats your position in Renideo, exactly? Im Wyrren couldnt think of how to respond, and faltered. What would be the best way to make them go away? Big Julita answered. Shes the dukes heir. de Renideo means Renideo is her birthright. Mordache naming conventions. So why come here? Kartania asked. Wyrren looked over Kartanias shoulder, but didnt see her sister. She had a terrible premonition concerning how this was going to end. Lady Reise Im just here to study magic. Thats all. She shifted her chair back to leave, but Big Julita stepped behind her, pinning her in place. Youre lying to me, Kartania said. Because I know you see the Grand Meister privately every day. Youve been in his office every evening for months now. I want to know what youre doing in there. Kartania leaned forward, elbows on the table, her eyes hard, her lips pressed. Wyrren stared at the jealousy on the face of the woman who was about to get everything Wyrren wanted. A fury Wyrren didnt know she carried surged forward. She pushed the table, its feet scraping against the wood floor, and stood. If you
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want to know, we make wild love on his desk every night, Wyrren said. He cant get enough of it. Its hell on my dresses, but he always buys me more anyway, so I cant complain. I dont know if he gets any work done in there at all. Kartanias fist smashed into the side of Wyrrens cheek so hard that Wyrren found herself curled on the floor, pieces of her broken mask scattered around her and her hands clasped around her nose. Her hands were warm and sticky, her own voice vocalizing on its own. Then there were other people around her. A man touched Wyrrens shoulder and said, Stay still, I know vivomancy, and began to heal her. When hed finished, members of the palace guard offered to help her to her feet. Wyrren protested. Shed do it herself in a bit, she was fine, everything was fine, please go. Ana waited behind the crowd. Her eyes went from Wyrren to the blood the servants were cleaning on the floor. What did you do?! Ana hissed. I I didnt Your dress! Wyrren looked down. Several drops of blood marred the hem and bodice of her lovely blue silk dress. Sebastian had given her that dress. Ana had a handkerchief out a moment later and dabbed Wyrrens chin. You did something stupid again, didnt you? Ana asked. I did something stupid, Wyrren agreed. Again. Why do you do that?! Wyrren didnt know. She did this every time. Ana escorted Wyrren back to her room, where Wyrren scrubbed her face of blood and cosmetics until she was a ghost in the vanity mirror. Her nose throbbed and Wyrren prodded it, wondering if it had been healed as well as it could have, then buried her face in her hands. Ana put her hands on Wyrrens shoulders. Come on. Lay down. Wyrren let her sister guide her, and stared at the sunlight on the ceiling.
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I told Kartania that I was sleeping with Sebastian, Wyrren said. In his office. Shell probably repeat that to him. She was horrified. Sweet, proper Sebastian, whod never so much as touched her. Shed never get another chess match after this. Hed probably ask her to leave. Why do I keep doing this? Picking stupid fights you cant win? Ana brought Wyrren three books from her bookcase and piled them at her bedside. Do you want the comforting answer or the real answer? Will I like the real answer? Wyrren asked. Nope. Wyrren didnt ask for either. You stay here and read, Ana said. Im going to get lunch. And dont worry about it, Wyrren. Kartania is in more trouble than you are, I promise you. Wyrren picked at her lunch tray when it arrived. Ana slipped out, giving Wyrren her privacy, and Wyrren had time to think. How stupid was she? Trying to make an enemy out of Kartania Riese? In what world would that be a good idea? She stared around the room: her tall sunny windows, the vanity desk, the porcelain washtub with the clawed feet, the wooden screen and its carved flowers and birds, the small black table where she beat Ana at chess and Ana slaughtered her at cards. Fight or no fight, there was no way that she was going to be allowed to stay here, once Kartania was queen of Hael Malstrom. She had laid there for nearly an hour when she heard her sisters voice in her head. <Wyrren?> Wyrren turned over. <Not now, Ana.> <Youve got to get out here and see this chess match,> Ana replied. <Im really not in the> Wyrren sat up. < What?>
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<Get down here!> Wyrren sat still for a moment and tried to imagine a world where such things were possible. She had lost over a hundred games to Sebastian; it didnt seem to matter that she had played since she was a small child, the books shed read, the theories shed memorized, the new strategies shed planned. She grabbed her spare mask and ran. She had to see this. She caught glimpses of the game through windows on the waya good sized crowd had formed around the table and the two players, and Wyrren wasnt sure if shed be able to see anything through the people. There was also Kartania to consider; the woman was probably in the audience. Wyrren opted for a second floor balcony that overlooked the courtyard instead, and joined the smaller crowd there. A few people had thought to bring little binoculars and opera glasses. Wyrren recognized an older lady with kinky brown curls and made a deal; Wyrren would explain the moves in exchange for a share in her brass binoculars. The two ended up leaning on the rail together, one eye pressed against a lens each. Sometimes dignity had to be discarded when chess was at stake. Wyrren had arrived in the last quarter of the game. Sebastian always played black when he could help it, preferring a subtle, defensive style. Edward Lowarwho Wyrren could only see from the backhad taken a stand in the center of the board. He was an aggressive player who sacrificed what he needed to and kept Sebastian stumbling back, scrambling for a foothold. Ten minutes after Wyrren had arrived, she saw a clear black checkmate. Thats it. The Grand Meister cant stop him nowLowars about to win. But when it was Lowars turn, he removed the last black rook instead. Then he took a pawn on his next turn. Why is he doing that? the lady asked. Wyrren raised her head and studied Lowars relaxed, nonchalant
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posture, then the tension in Sebastians hands. Hes well, hes gloating, Wyrren said. Lowar took another of Sebastians isolated pieces. Gloating? the lady asked. Lowars going to win. They both understand that, Wyrren said. Lowars drawing it out. Rubbing the Grand Meisters nose in it. In Sebastians own courtyard, no less. That man had gall. He was also risking his potential victory, if Sebastian could only turn things around. He didnt. The game ended with black in checkmate; Wyrren breathed better once Lowar finally said the words. Sebastian offered the curtest handshake Wyrren had ever seen. Kartania stepped out of the crowd and clasped Sebastians arm. Applause was polite, but without enthusiasm. Ana found her after the game, with Verrus from the murder in tow. Verrus handed Wyrren a dead rabbit: a gift from the gardener, whod wondered why shed not come by today. Wyrren said her thanks and escaped when she could. Down to the first floor, sneaking past the crowd discussing the Grand Meisters match, and into the catacombs, where Lowar threatened Sebastian in the dark. * * * After his fight with Lowar, Sebastian slouched on the edge of crate, his head between his knees. Bangs fell in his eyes, his hands clutched at his hair, and he gasped between his sobs. Wyrren felt like a voyeur, even as she fantasized about making herself known. Shed go to him, put her arms around him, feel him squeeze her arm but her fantasy wouldnt stretch any further than that, and in her minds eye he pushed her away and asked what she was doing. Sebastian wouldnt accept her help. He didnt want her. Sebastian stood after a time. He brushed himself off, tied his hair with his ribbon. At a gesture the dirt, cobwebs, and wrinkles disappeared
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from his clothes. His expression regained his usual composure. He waved a hand, opened a glowing red doorway in the air, stepped through and vanished. The portal closed a moment after. Wyrren walked to the crate that Sebastian had been thrown into. Shafts of wood stuck out, and an enormous vase inside had shattered. Wyrren touched the broken glass, and her fingers came away sticky. The dim light made the smear look like a rust with a black center. What have you gotten yourself into, Sebastian? Wyrren whispered. What could he possibly have gotten involved in that he couldnt handle, with all his money and power? And who would protect him, if he would not protect himself ? She always picked the wrong fights.
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Chapter 2
Two girls sparred on the lawn greenhair in braids, padded armor on their torsos, heads, arms, and legs until their sex was obscured to the casual observer. They practiced with staves today, flourishing their weapons about their bodies on guard, the clack of stick on stick on the deflection and block. One girl struck, the other dodged. The first rushed suddenly, caught and sent her opponent sprawling to the ground. Some of the other Doppel girls around them whooped. Less arm-wagging, more footwork, Halina! Kartania yelled from the sidelines, where she and a couple of her close friends had planted themselves. Big Julita, lay off on the charges for a while. Julita nodded and helped her opponent up. Can I ask you something, Adela? Kartania asked. Adela looked up from her embroidery. Yeah? If I told you that I was sleeping with Drane, what would you do? Hypothetically speaking. And you hypothetically meant it? Adela asked. Right. Id punch you in the face. Adela went back to her needlework. And if our positions were reversed? Still hypothetical? Right.
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Id duck. Kartania scowled. Jadis wanted me to hit her. She didnt even try to block me. Yep. Adela shrugged. It was a bad move, Kartania. You know Marlans are snakes. Now she looks like a victim, and youre the crazy Doppel lady who likes to punch unarmed women. She deserved to be hit, Kartania said. This isnt Doppel, Kartania. In Doppel, we would have asked her why she didnt fight back like a sane person! Kartania glared at the next pair to take their place on the field, as if this were their fault. Silver-hair from the murders coming, Adela said, and nodded past Kartania. Kartania spotted the man Adela was speaking of. Kearn Nosland, first in the murder and head of palace security. He was also the man whod had that talk with Little Julita about assaulting the guard last night. Of all the company he might have picked, he was walking with Edward Lowar, who had shoved his hands deep in the pockets of his long green coat. Kartania got up. Ill be right back, she told the rest, and went to meet him. Mr. Nosland? Lady Riese, Kearn inclined his head slightly. Id like to have a word in private, if you dont mind? Kartania glanced at her girls, then beckoned him to follow her off a ways over the green. Is this about Lady Jadis? Kartania asked. Im afraid it is, Kearn replied. Would you tell me what happened, Lady Riese? If shed said half of what she did in Doppel, Id have had her on a field of honor, Kartania said. Lady Riese, you arent in Doppel, Kearn said. If Lady Jadis has stepped out of line, a word to palace security will suffice. Keeping the peace is my job. And under no condition are you to challenge anyone to
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a duel while you are here. Do you understand? Kartania bit back an urge to argue, but that smarted. What sort of place was this when people couldnt defend their own honor? Did everyone in Hael Malstrom run off to tattle when someone stepped out of line? I understand, she said. It wont happen again. Thank you, Lady Riese, Kearn inclined his head again and excused himself. Edward Lowar, who stood at a polite distance nearby, coughed into his fist for her attention. Kartania breathed deeply and counted to five in her head. Yes, Mr. Lowar? Lowar stepped forward. I couldnt help but hear some of that, he said, his voice quiet. May I give some advice? It is your job, Kartania said, and crossed her arms. Dont tell palace security next time, Lowar said. Tell the Grand Meister, or tell me. You know how much is riding on your time here, and if the Grand Meister wont take action on your behalf, hes not serious about our agreement. Violence on our part isnt an option. No one will slight you with impunity, I can promise you that. Yes, Mr. Lowar, Kartania said. Lowar smiled. Think of it as a test for Sebastian del Torlo, Lady Reise. I imagine seeing him put Jadis back in line would be much more satisfying anyway? Kartania smiled despite herself. That was a gratifying way to look at her problem. Thank you. My pleasure, as always. When Kartania rejoined her girls, Adela looked up from her embroidery. What are you going to do about Sebastian? He already told me that Jadis was just a friend, Kartania said. I guess we see if hes lying. Frankly, she needed Sebastian. Of the three men her father wanted her to consider, he was the only one who interested her, and shed not settle for less. She and her father would have a fight to remember if she
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came home empty handed, which could very well end with her return to Maeranyas temple permanently: a disowned priestess without any political position or family. But whether Sebastian was for her or not, she hadnt come all this distance to meet with a man involved with someone else. * * * When she was very young, Wyrrens nannies would tell her how lucky she was to be alive. Stupid little girls like her were usually left to freeze on the Marlan ice. Back then she had lived in a set of rooms in the back of the Renideo fortress, and every so often she would be brought out in her best dress and paraded before her father and mother. Wyrren was to be silent unless she was addressed, to speak carefully when she was called to. Her frozen lips often mangled words beyond understanding, and sometimes, when she was alone in her room she would stay up all night practicing speech, trying to get the sounds right. By day she would play with her toys and listen to the adults and the things theyd said to each other, scandals and inner-palace politics, who was hated, who was admired, suppositions when she might get a normal sibling, why Duke Chyril Jadis insisted on keeping her, what things would be like when Wyrren grew older. They werent shy about speaking in front of her. Stupid little girls couldnt understand gossip. Wyrrens mother died just before she turned six. Her mother had been born a princess, and so nobles from far beyond the Renideo duchy had risked the snows to travel to her funeral. Wyrren had to attend, so her nannies had brought her out in her best dress and let her eat breakfast with the nobles. Wyrrens mouth never fully sealedat that age she hadnt yet mastered tricks to keep food from falling out of her mouth while she chewed. The nobles curiosity and initial interest in her passed as soon as it had come, and they politely ignored her afterward.
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When Wyrrens father excused himself, most in the dining hall accompanied him. Wyrrens nannies snatched her away from her meal mid-bite. Wyrren remembered yelling and trying to grab the table. She had been hungry. Young Sebastian del Torlo had been present. He stood. He ordered the nannies to release Wyrren, saw her returned to her breakfast, and told them off for being so horrible to a little girl. The nannies had protested that it was their orders, that little Lady Jadis was simple and not to be there unless needed. Sebastian knelt down beside Wyrren and studied her, a finger on her chin, turning her head to and fro gently. First he asked how they were sure. Then he asked Wyrren if she wanted to learn a new game. They played chess all morning and into the afternoon. By the third game Wyrren had memorized the rules. By the fifth, shed taken a few of Sebastians pieces. She remembered her father returning and watching them play, how Sebastian had asked her father for a quiet word and pulled him aside. Wyrren still remembered the first sentence as they walked awayYour simple daughter appears to be exceptionally brilliant, Chyril. She was given a governess, a host of tutors, and a proper room the next day. Her father began to visit and talk with her often. Her fathers subjects began to listen to what she said. From distain to respect, from weakness to influence. She never saw her nannies again. Who wouldnt love Sebastian after that? That night their chess game was a quiet one, punctuated only by the clink of the marble pieces against the board. Candles lit the side of Sebastians face, the pensive set to his jaw. He stared at the board and hardly looked up. Wyrren waited until the game neared its conclusion before she spoke. Sebastian? she asked. Are you doing alright? Sebastian looked up at her and smiled. I am fine, Wyrren. A little distracted with all thats going on at the moment, Ill admit. He returned
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his eyes to the board. Sebastian always said that he was doing well. For all Wyrren knew, his enemies threatened to ruin and kill him in the catacombs every afternoon. You havent looked like yourself since the chess match with Lowar. Im sorry that I didnt see it from the beginning. I would have preferred you not see me lose at all, Sebastian said. Looking back on a match like that is hard. I know what I should have done now. Stab Lowar with the bishop, Wyrren supposed. Perhaps youve gotten too used to winning? I havent seen anyone really challenge you since I arrived. No, I dont think thats it, Sebastian said. His fingers went to a pawn, and moved it forward. Wyrren looked at the board as well. Sebastian had impeccable defenses, in the game as much as he did real life. Shed always felt like he was holding her at arms length from him, and it wearied her. Shed never hurt him. He knew that. So why do it? She moved her queen to the far side of the board, beside one of Sebastians black pawns, and kept a finger on the pieces head as she double-checked her strategy. Sebastian, she said, if there was something troubling you something wrong? You can tell me. You know that I would help you. I owe you more than you know. Sebastian smiled. Dont worry yourself with my problems, Wyrren. They arent anything that I cant handle. I do worry, Wyrren said. You never tell me anything. Well, thats an outright lie. If there is something I can ask of you, I will not hesitate, Sebastian corrected her. It would be a waste of the talent around me if I didnt. But Im afraid theres nothing for you to do, though. Ill inform you the moment there is. Perhaps it was a blessing that Wyrren couldnt look worried or upset. He smiled. He won. She did not tell him what she had seen that afternoon.
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* * * It doesnt make sense, Ana objected. Are you sure youre not forgetting something? Wyrren paced the edge of the carpet in her stepsisters bedroom, around and around the small table before the sofa. Verrus sat on the edge of the sofa; Ana lounged on him. A fire burned behind the mesh screen across the room. They were arguing. Sebastian was resigned to being blackmailed. Then Lowar told Sebastian that he was going to end his family line instead, that Sebastian was falling apart and wasnt useful anymore. Sebastian hit Lowar; Lowar blasted Sebastian into a crate. Shattered wood went everywhere; Im surprised it didnt stab Sebastian. Then nothing. Youre sure Sebastian never said a word to the murder, Verrus? Nothing Ive heard of, Verrus said. It still doesnt make sense, Ana repeated. If Lowar meant to assassinate Sebastian, he wouldnt have said so. Its stupid. Wyrren turned with the carpets corner. But why didnt Sebastian call for the murder? Lowar ought to be in a holding cell by now. Maybe its a personal matter, Verrus said. And he wants to deal with it himself ? Because, obviously, youre only his bodyguard when hes being Grand Meister, Wyrren returned, though she supposed that it was possible. I dont accept that. Sebastian might have gotten killed. Sebastian has a secret he doesnt want the murder privy to, Ana said. Most people have secrets, you know. If he didnt call the murder, its because he sees keeping them away preferable to his safety. Ana shrugged. Who knows? Maybe its got to do with his work. You know how important it is to him. Maybe hes protecting his Kartania venture.
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Wyrren considered that. I dont think Doppel would mourn if their official was arrested for attacking the Grand Meister. And Sebastian was far too angry. Its the best I can do, Ana said. Youre right; it doesnt make sense. Except Except? Wyrren repeated. Sit down first, the pacings making me dizzy, Ana said. Wyrren chose the high-backed chair, and Ana continued. What if what if Sebastian knew you were there? And hes testing you? To see how far youd go for him? Hell, he could have gone off with Lowar for a drink afterward, congratulating each other. Verrus laughed. Wyrren, though, considered it. Shed like to believe that. But then she thought of the chess match, the way Edward had drawn out his victory, the look on Sebastians face at the handshake, the way hed held himself. No, Wyrren said. I think something is wrong. Sebastians not stupid, Ana said. If he was in danger, hed do something about it. Alone? Wyrren shook her head. He needs help. If you dont like it, then take action. Whats your plan? What was her plan? Wyrren hadnt gotten that far yet. Ana waited then said, Youve talked to Sebastian. Hes not letting you in, right? Not at all, Wyrren said. He smiles and says everything is fine. Well, theres someone else who knows what happened in the catacombs, isnt there? Ana pressed. If you cant find out from Sebastian then maybe Lowar can tell you. You can start by figuring out where theyve met before this. I can check the gossip lines I can look into the records, Wyrren said, agreeing at once. She turned to Verrus. Id appreciate it if youd keep quiet about this. Sebastian wanted whatever this is to be a secret. I assume there must be some reason for it.
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For now, Verrus said. Verrus may have had a much different opinion if hed known what Wyrren had meant by look into the records, though. Wyrren had forbidden Ana from telling anyone her specialty in the mordache art, or even explaining what the mordache were capable of. The mordache art came in three very specific branches. Practitioners of the mordache arts first branch were called crystal mages, and they were the sanitation workers of Marlan cities. They cleaned puddles of spilled magic and helped children recover from misusing their art. It was a much needed position, but had no status. Threaders made up the vast majority of mordache nobles: the ability to grab and manipulate the strings that wove the soul and body together. It was fast, painful, deadly, and the only counter to the art was a second mordache threader. Wyrren had refused to learn threading, despite her fathers threats and punishments. Wyrren had a trunk at the foot of her bed. She opened it, revealing white sand. Sebastian had black appointment book on his desk most days. She started with that. She took the mass of the sand and recreated the book from its imprint on her memory. The technique was called desolidification, the third, last, and most dangerous branch of the mordache art: its practitioners were known for being intelligent, wealthy, and dying young. And while Wyrrens father had based their economy on the export of gold and gems, he had not acquired these things by mining. A minute later Wyrren had Sebastians private notes in hand. * * * The next morning, Wyrren woke at dawn to sunshine on the ceiling. She turned over and hugged her pillow. Ana let herself in the room, poured her bath, picked out Wyrrens clothes, brushed Wyrrens hair
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and applied her makeup. Wyrren tried to stay awake. Neither of them could find any information at all. Not Bethys gossip channel or Verrus mention to the rest of the murder, nor had any book or file that Wyrren recreated from the recent piles on top of Sebastians desk. Anas gossip only helped to put Edward Lowar even farther away from Hael Malstrom. He was a mage, yes, but an Attican mage whod immigrated to Doppel to start his political career. Hed served his high chancellor well, and the only talk worth mentioning spoke of a loud personality and a bent toward hedonism in his free time. No one could say theyd remembered Sebastian meeting him five years ago during his only trip to Doppel. One of the Doppel girls had even said that they were fairly sure that Lowar had been on a ship halfway across the Rikewell Sea at the time. Wyrren and Ana went to breakfast. The Doppel girls still called for refills by pounding on the table. Wyrren sent a mental message for her bodyguard Saffira to meet her after the meal, and picked at her eggs, hash sodden with egg yolk and thick, chewy warm bread. Wyrren was halfway to the library when she saw a shadow immediately behind her and started. Saffira, whod fallen into step with her, gave no indication that she had noticed. Wyrren had had plenty of bodyguards over the years: Rylan, the honorable young man with orange hair and a heroic death wish; Dacha, an enormously overweight threader who liked to make self-deprecating fat jokes; Ermyn, who had gotten her sipping northern beers when she was fourteen and with whom she had formed a secret smuggling ring; Tars with his big belly and missing teeth, who had once invited the eleven-year-old Wyrren to a chess match and confronted her with five rows of black pawns on his end against Wyrrens back rowThe peasantry is revolting, mlady. Saffira was odder than all of them combined. She was a tall woman, even taller than Wyrren, about forty years old, and would have been as slender if her dark skin didnt cover lines
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of sinewy muscles. Her jaw was strong, her ears pierced with loops and loops of golden earrings. Dozens of beaded necklaces hung about her neck and her face had been tattooed with black lines, dots, and swirls. Now that they were in a warmer climate Saffira had taken to wearing long, thin, brightly colored dresses. She rarely spoke, never seemed to pay attention to anything, and she loved her knives like little children. She was certainly a warrior woman, Wyrren decided, looking her bodyguard over, but she wasnt going to fit in with the boisterous shieldmaidens. Still, Saffira seemed to be Wyrrens best option. I have something Id like you to do, Wyrren said, checking the halls to ensure their privacy. I overheard Edward Lowar threatening Sebastian yesterday. I want you to start sparring with the Doppel girls. Watch Edward as much as theyll let you. See if Kartania is part of this. Saffira nodded once. You can go. Saffira left. Wyrren shook her head at Saffiras back. There was something with that woman that unnerved her. If she didnt know better, shed think Saffira was less human than Sebastians murder. She spent the late morning across town, attending a university class on differential geometry. Lunch she took with Ana in her room. Afterward she went to the gardens to see if the head gardener had a body for her necromancy practice. She came away with a half decomposed bird, stiff as a board, its neck suspended perpendicular to its body. When Wyrren walked on the grass to claim it, the birds feathers began to brighten and the grass under Wyrrens feet drooped. Wyrren returned to the palace and headed for the favorable conditions of the catacombs. Jadis! Kartanias strident voice echoed well off the palace walls. Wyrren stopped a few paces shy of the catacombs door. So close. Kartania closed the distance at a march, the clip of her boots distinctive on the marble tile, then dull on the plush carpet. Just what the hell do you think youre doing, Jadis?!
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Wyrren turned, cradling the bird to her chest. Magic practice? Dont be cute, Kartania snapped. Her hair had been pulled back tight, with strands of hair escaped here and there. She wore padded armor and her face was flushed. Why is your woman trying to cozy up with mine? Youre spying on me? Saffira? Guilty as charged, for all the wrong reasons. Yes, Saffira. Your tattooed giant. I want her gone, Jadis. Saffira she spars with everyone, Wyrren said. The guard, the murder Im sure she wasnt intending any harm. No harm. Right. Im sure. Kartania said. So it wont be any harm at all, then, if you would be so kind as to tell her to stay the hell away from our training sessions. Ill stay on my side of the palace, and youll keep to yours. Wyrren hesitated. Im sorry, Lady Jadis, is there something wrong? Kartania asked, her lips pressed into a long, thin line. Because I can be much worse if there is. Yes, she could break Wyrrens nose. And then the vivomancers would have to set it again. Wyrren fought with herself a moment longer, then realized that even if she refused, Saffira would never be left alone to gather information on Edward Lowar. Ill ask her to keep her distance. Do it now. Wyrren sent a mental message to Saffira. Done. Thank you, Kartania said, turned, then turned back and gave Wyrren a bewildered look. Why are you carrying a dead bird? * * * So, let me get this straight, Ana said, lounging on her bed, fingers laced together beneath her head. You want me to go happen to bump into Edward Lowar, flirt shamelessly with him, maybe spend the
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blinkerbug festival on his arm so that I can pump him for information and figure out how hes planning to hurt Sebastian. Ana stopped, gave her words a dramatic pause, let them sink in for flavor. You know. That sounds a lot like courtesan work. I thought I was supposed to stay away from courtesan work. I thought it was bad for me. Wyrren wondered why she thought she might get through this with her pride intact. Im sorry for antagonizing you. What was that? I couldnt quite hear you. Ana put a hand to her ear. I apologize. For forbidding you from sleeping with every man who laid eyes on you. I was wrong. Wyrren wondered if all little sisters were so aggravating. Have all the self-indulgent, relationship crippling casual sex you like. Ana brightened and sat up. Why, of course Ill help save Hael Malstrom with my good looks, Wyrren! She kissed Wyrrens cheek. Give me a couple of hours. Ill have him eating out of my hand by dinner time. Wyrren put the dead bird in the chest of sand at the foot of her bed. Then she put her foot on the chest and kicked it, slamming it into the baseboard. She never got around to necromancy practice. She felt lost and disjointed; her daily routine fell to pieces. When Wyrren came to dinner, she took her place beside Ana expecting some fantastical story. Instead Ana loaded up her plate and didnt look at her. What happened? Wyrren asked softly, and fumbled with the clasp of her half-mask. Lowar hadnt hurt her, had he? Ana took Wyrrens mask off and set it aside. She pushed the food around her plate before answering. <He played me.> <What?> What did that even mean? Ana returned, stabbing her dinner. <I thought everything was going fine! It was just like any job! And then I dont know. He turned it all around and dismissed me. Wyrren,
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he must have known what I was up to. I dont know how. Its never happened before. Im damn good at this.> Wyrren had never seen Ana fail so quickly, in fact. She put her own fork down. <So what do we do now, then?> She had two girls, and both of them hadnt been able to get near Edward Lowar. What else could she do? Bribe the cleaning staff ? Hide dead things in their rooms to spy on them? Lowar was an established mage, and Wyrren was barely a novice; there was a good chance hed sense her necromancy now that he wasnt busy threatening Sebastian with regicide. <We could give up.> <Absolutely not,> Wyrren returned. <Oh, I know you wouldnt. I just wanted to see you get all puffed up,> Ana said. She shook her head. <You arent going to like this, but I dont see a choice. Youre going to need to get involved yourself.> <Me?> Wyrren said. <Im not what can I do? I dont have your charisma. I cant manipulate anyone. Im not a warrior like Saffira. Im not even a real mage!> <You play chess, dont you?> Wyrren ate dinner. Sebastian smiled when they played that night, as pleasant as ever. Wyrren read before bed and woke with the sunrise. The routine resumed its usual pace. After breakfast, Wyrren packed her own chess set and started for the guest wing on the other side of the palace. The servants were collecting laundry in that hall; one of them told Wyrren where she could find Edward Lowars room. Wyrren stood in front of the door and gathered her courage for a time before she knocked. Wyrren waited for a man in a long green coat; instead an older woman in the palace servants uniform answered and offered her a quick curtsy. Lady Jadis. I beg your pardon, I was asked to see who was at the door. Would you wait? Wyrren nodded. The door shut again. The servant reappeared a minute later, a basket of linens in her
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hands. Mr. Lowar says you may enter, she said, and held the door open for Wyrren with her hip. Wyrrens grip tightened on her chess case, and she stepped past the maid and into Edward Lowars room.
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Chapter 3
Edward Lowars rooms looked like many in the palacia. The hall opened into a common area with tall windows. He had a desk, which had been piled with books, paper, and pens. An end table had been pulled by a stuffed chair at the window, where the curtains had been drawn halfway. A book laid face down on the arm of the chair, and several potted plants had been set around the space. For someone whod only just arrived here, Lowar seemed to have put some effort into making himself comfortable. The room stood empty. Was he in the bedroom? Wyrren eyed the desk, with its papers and books. It was so easy to slip forward, set her chess case down, and ease the drawers open one by one, peaking inside then shutting them again. Pens. A small black book. Notes and scraps of paper written in a careless, fluid hand. She made mental notes of them all. A door on the far side of the room opened. Wyrren jumped back from the cracked desk drawer. I wish youd told me that you wanted to visit, Lady Jadis, Lowar said. I might have been ready for you. Wyrren clasped both hands behind her back. Its she began, and her voice died when she spotted the man. He stood dripping in front of an open doorway, the washroom, wearing nothing but a toosmall towel about his waist. Long dark hair shone in glistening strands
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clinging to his chest and shoulders. He had an average frame, but not a bad looking one. I. Um. Wyrren felt her face burning, realized she was staring, turned her gaze to the floor. What the hell was she trying to say? She heard his bare feet walking closer. Then hed taken her hand in his and kissed it. His palm was damp, and his hair dripped on her. A pleasure. Edward Lowar, at your service. What can I do for you, Lady Jadis? Wyrren couldnt look up from the floor. Perhaps you could get dressed? she asked, in a very small voice. He laughed. Yes. Yes I should, he said, and started away. Wyrren rose her eyes, just in time for him to throw his towel on the desk chair. Wyrren put her hands over her face, certain that she was bright purple by now. She blushed in shades of violet. So what brings you here? Edward called. Wyrren heard the rustle of cloth, and took a guilty peak through her fingers. No, it wasnt safe to look yet. Um. Why had she come again? I I had hoped that you might be willing to humor me for a chess match? she asked. I missed your game with the Grand Meister, and Im um very enthusiastic. About the game. Yes. Well, that is tempting, Edward said. Very tempting. Ill have to shift some things around, but I think I can accommodate you, Lady Jadis. Wyrren took her hands from her face when hed finished putting on pants. Do you always walk about your rooms naked? she asked. Only for you. Edward winked, then pulled his undershirt over his head. He picked up an ivory button-down shirt next. Do you always introduce yourself to your hosts masked? He pulled his wet hair through the collar. Take it off. The mask? Wyrren asked. Youre not going to expect me to wear the proper amount of
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clothes, then cover up half of your face. His tone changed, becoming stern and dangerous. Take the mask off. Wyrren hesitated. Edward shrugged, then began undressing again. Wyrren scrambled to get the mask off, her fingers tangling with her hair around the clasp. Several pieces of hair were pulled out of her head, caught in the strap. There. The smile returned to Edwards face as if it had never left. Much better, he said. He left his shirt half buttoned and swung his green coat about himself as he donned it. The hems rippled through the air in a wide arc. I always find flesh more interesting than porcelain, no matter how lovely its been painted. Please, sit. Is this your chess set? He rubbed a hand along the side of the case shed placed on his desk. Wyrren nodded and sat at the small table. Edward brought the case, put his hands at the latches, and asked, May I? Wyrren brushed his hands away and opened the box in answer. Every piece in that chess set had been hand-carved by Marlan sculptors. Every piece was a statue with its own face, its own personality in its eyes. One side was made from bone. The other was a dark jade. All were tall and heavy, the back rows taller than Wyrrens hand. The jade king was a serious, militant man who wore a helm rather than a crown. Beside him stood an elderly grim looking queen: the kings mother, the type that would run you down if you got in her way. The bone queen was young and smiled, a finger pressed to her lips. A bishop glanced behind him, papers in hand. The rook stood before a stone wall, loading his crossbow. One pawn looked unsure. Another had a beard and a glint of zealotry to his eyes. No expense had been spared, no detail overlooked. My father commissioned these for me, Wyrren said. If she knew her father, her mothers funeral had only just ended by the time their sculptors had the order. Edward plucked the lamp off his table and set it beside the board,
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and he began to pick up the figures and stare at them one by one as Wyrren tried to set up for the game. These are he began, but this time it was his turn to be out of words. I could live to see the end of time and never grow tired of Marlan craftsmanship. Wyrren laughed, but could not smile. She wanted to put on her mask. Pray instead our craftsmen live forever. Not that Id wish such a fate on anyone. She finished setting the board. Edward pressed his lips together, and for a moment he looked troubled. Theres no horse. The knights had been replaced with women. He examined one in white, who held a key in one hand and a drawn knife behind her back. We have no horses in Marla, Wyrren said. Its too cold for most overland travel. Assassins fight our wars, so female assassins are used instead. Its a weakness of the set, I admit, though once familiar with the pieces its no trouble. He looked across the chessboard. The other white knight was a lovely woman who looked hurt and vulnerable, her dress torn at her shoulder. The jade knights were tall warriors, one holding a hammer, the other a grim, wide woman with dogs at her feet. You could learn a lot about Marla from this set. What they think is dangerous. Everything is dangerous, Wyrren replied. White or black? Lets let luck decide, shall we? He asked, and pulled a coin from his pocket. It was one of Doppels currency, a sword on one side and a shield on the other. Shield, Wyrren called. Edward caught it spinning and flipped it over on his arm. The swords emblem glimmered under the lamplight. Ill have white, Edward decided. Wyrren spun the chessboard about and took the militant jade pieces. Edward moved a pawn forward two spaces, then leaned his cheek into the palm of his hand, watching her. For a time Wyrren kept her eyes on the board. There were only
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so many beginning combinations in chess. The opening strategy was important, but often just a matter of patterns and previously memorized tactics: advantages and disadvantages to opening moves. She kept her focus on the board. Edward seemed to keep his focus on her instead, his elbow on the table and his chin on his palm. Seven moves in, Wyrren said, You play very well, as she moved her knight. Shed expected that of someone who could beat Sebastian. Your match with the Grand Meister the day before yesterday, was that your first game with him? It was, Edward said. Though Ive played quite a few like him. He favors a particular defensive subtlety, the Grand Meister. Very passiveaggressive. That would be Sebastian, yes, Wyrren thought. I thought hed visited Doppel, five years ago? He had, Edward admitted. At the time I was a junior member of Jolcimers staff. Even if Id had the time it would have been difficult to have procured a match with a Grand Meister, and I was getting ready for a sea voyage. Besides, Sebastian del Torlo I dont think he appreciates my sense of humor. Edward paused. Actually, I dont think he has one. Thats it? Wyrren asked. The glare, the stiffness, drawing out your victory like you did because you made a joke he didnt appreciate? Remember what happened the last time we fought near a city?, Edward had said in the catacombs. What can I say? Edward smirked and offered her a lazy shrug. Some people just werent meant to get along. Its your move. The game progressed. Wyrren lost track of what Edward thought he was doingmany of his moves seemed to make no sense at all. Hed sacrifice his pieces to get into positions that seemed to have little strategic value, waste time and moves going back and forth, dancing in front of her. Wyrren wondered if he was even taking this game seriously, until she was well into the trap that shed helped him build.
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The game turned. Edward became aggressive, just as he had with Sebastian. Wyrrens jade statues grew sparse, and her kings last hold did not last long. Wyrren spent a full minute staring at the board after checkmate, trying to figure out how he had done that. Brilliant, she said at last. That style Something I came up with a little while ago, Edward said, and waved a hand dismissively. It catches most off their guard. You developed it? Wyrren asked. Shed been sure that Edward couldnt be older than Sebastian. One thing to learn from a master, but I suppose you do nothing but work and play chess, as well. Not on your life. Edward picked up the pieces and studied them again. Speaking of, theyve announced the date of the blinkerbug festival. Have you heard, Lady Jadis? I know of the festival, Wyrren said. It lasts a week. Parties every night, starting the day after tomorrow. You should let me take you. He smiled and leaned forward. I promise youll have a good time. Im I dont usually like parties, Wyrren said. Parties meant standing in crowded places with drinks, watching everyone else have a good time, listening to her quiet, slurred voice getting lost in the noise when she tried to converse. Perhaps you havent had the right partner. Edward took her hand and kissed it. Wyrren blushed purple again. It would be an excellent opportunity to figure out what Lowar was up to. It should have been her idea, in fact. Then I accept. * * * Wyrren played chess with Sebastian that night, as usual. She asked how things were going with Kartania. He smiled and assured her that
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everything was fine. How was her day? After her chess match with Sebastian that night, Wyrren kicked her chest of sand several more times, hurt her foot, then recreated the books and the papers that Lowar had had on and in his desk. She took them to her bed and scattered them around her: a file of papers, a small book of blank pages and handwritten notes bound in dark brown leather, a large beige book with worn corners, another black book so pristine it must have been preserved with magic. She read Lowars thoughts on a tax law the Doppel government was considering changing, a speechs rough draft on the importance of international peace, snippets about public relations with countries other than Hael Malstrom. The beige book contained theorems of the relationship between magic and physics. She picked up the pristine black book, certain this would be her clue, opened it in the middle, and slammed it shut again so fast she crushed the tips of her fingers. Then she took a guilty peek inside, at sexual illustrations and instructive text, then began to turn the pages, studying each with intense fascination. Some forty pages later she started, realized how much time had passed and shoved the book under her pillow. She had real work to do. By the time Ana knocked it was past midnight and Wyrren was at her wits end. So, Ana said, and stepped into the room, around Wyrren. How did it go? I have a date, Wyrren said, locking the door behind Ana. Edwards claiming to have never directly interacted with Sebastian before, though. Nothing new from Verrus? Well, there hasnt been any orders to arrest Lowar or anything. A date, though? For the festival? Not with Edward Lowar. I was going to set you up with someone. It seemed a good opportunity. Lowars going to play you like a harp, Ana said. Did you find
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anything in the books? She shoved them over so she could lie on the bed, her hands beneath her head. Nothing useful, Wyrren admitted. Nothing that has anything to do with Sebastian. I dont understand how this fits together, Ana. They knew each other. They knew each other well. If you know someone, then youve spent time with them. But Sebastians important enough that someone ought to remember something if they had, and neither will admit it. Thats because they were lovers as teenagers, Ana said, and closed her eyes. Lowars still got evidence, and hes been blackmailing Sebastian since. Wyrren stiffened. What? she asked, comparing Anas explanation to their fight in the catacombs, then to Edward Lowars act that morning. Why do you think Sebastian waited so long to get a wife? I I dont believe it, Wyrren said. That changed everything, didnt it? Shed have to re-examine everything shed assumed since shed arrived. How did you find this out? A smile crept up Anas face, until she grinned from ear to ear. I made it up. ANA! Just now, in fact. Wyrren grabbed one of the pillows and began bludgeoning her sister with every ounce of strength she had. Her very best just sent Ana rolling with peals of laughter, which turned into curses when she fell on the beige hardback. Your books are trying to kill me, Wyrren. It serves you right, making up things like that! Wyrren said, realized that shed uncovered the sex book, and hastily replaced the pillow before her sister could spot it. Dont do that to me, Ana! Hey, it fit! It could be true. Ana started giggling again. You are the antithesis of scientific method. Wyrren began gathering up the books. Were looking for facts, not making up wild
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theories. It could be true. Ana grinned, then frowned and wrinkled her nose. Wyrren, do you have any idea what youre getting yourself into? No. Wyrren crossed her arms. Social skills are not my forte. And you probably dont want to have sex with him. Does that actually ever get you anywhere? What do you say? Now that weve made love, please divulge your secrets? You would make the worlds worst courtesan, Ana said. But thats not important. You need to get information, and I need to make sure you dont do something stupid in the first ten minutes. Ana moved to sit on Wyrrens pillow, the one Wyrren had hidden Lowars black book under. So. This is your angle. Youre going to go to the parties on Edward Lowars arm and not try to learn anything. What? Wyrren asked. Just date the man, Ana said. Youre as subtle as an airborne brick. If you start trying, everyone will know what youre really after. Talk to him. Drink. Flirt. Imagine marrying him and having those twenty kids you wont shut up about. But how am I going to help Sebastian if I dont try? Wyrren asked. Ana grinned so wide she squinted. Thats the great part. How many people see Sebastian every day, Wyrren? The council, the murder, his secretaries, his chef, his steward, Wyrren began listing them off on her fingers. His valet, his personal servants No, actually. No they dont. Sebastian does two things, remember? He worksusually in his office, behind closed doorsand he plays chess. Sleeping is debatable. You are the only person in the entire palace that gets to see and actually interact with Sebastian every day. Hes made sure that he gets to see you every day. He likes you. Ive told you he likes you dozens of times. Why do you think Kartania is so jealous? You have what she wants!
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Wyrren let the idea sink in. Now. Lets revisit Edward Lowar. Lowar wants to hurt Sebastian del Torlo. Hes got a reputation for being a hedonist and a womanizer. Hes not terribly handsome, but hes not bad looking either, not to mention that now he has a fortune on him and everyone knows it. He could get almost any girl he wants. Do you really think that he wants to date a disfigured woman because of her great personality? Ana crossed her arms and shrugged. Thank you, Ana. Wyrren slouched a little more. Im saying that if you remain clueless, he will try to use you. Your friendship with the Grand Meister gives you position, and he will want to manipulate you for it. That is how youll find out what hes up to. Stay with him and play dumb. You can play dumb right? * * * Wyrren met Edward Lowar at her door wearing a black and red dress with a wide triangular neckline, a party mask over her face and a silk rose in her hair. Edward smiled when she took his arm. You look lovely, Lady Jadis. Youre not going to make me take the mask off this time? Wyrren asked. In answer, Edward used his other hand to reach into his coat pocket and pull out a mans black domino mask. He slipped it over face and hair with one hand. Not tonight. In the center of the capital stood an ancient, solitary redwood tree. A courtyard had been built around it, a park and garden around the courtyard, and it was there the first big party of the festival week was to be held, starting at dusk, when the insects filled the air above their heads. An orchestra played at one end, refreshments stood at the edge of the gardens, couples danced under lines of paper lanterns. Men and women smiled under their masks, toasted their friends, talked in clusters.
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Im not familiar with all the local dances, Wyrren admitted. I cant say I am, either, Edward said. Well just have to improvise, if it comes to that. He smiled and squeezed her hand. No need to be nervous. Im not nervous, Wyrren replied, but had Edward not had her arm, shed be clutching her hands together tight. Edward raised his eyebrows. Lets get you some champagne, I think. Wyrren watched for Sebastian and Kartania as she entered the party proper, and had to slip her mask around her shoulders to drink from her fluted glass. She caught sight of Ana in a burgundy gown, laughing and talking to a new audience. Verrus tall brother Fervius had brought a book to the proceedings, of all things. Wyrren recognized a few men from her mathematics class at the university, and they offered her a polite wave. She danced with Edward, stopped to say hello to another classmate, who introduced her to his wife. More dancesthree, then four. She noticed Saffira in a sleek gown the color of fire, her arm around Kearns. The stars came out, muted by party lamps. Edward fetched her another glass of champagne. She spotted Sebastian and Kartania at the top of a wrought iron stair. Several blinkerbugs had settled in Sebastians long hair, and he carried his champagne glass at an angle, almost to the point of spilling. Kartania flipped her hair and glanced sideways at Sebastian. He didnt seem to be paying attention to his date. That was interesting. Lady Jadis? Edward asked mildly. Wyrren drank the rest of her champagne in a gulp, then coughed into a fist. My apologies. Another dance? Edward smiled and took her hand. Wyrren caught sight of a busty Doppel girl giving her a dirty look as Edward spun her around, then held her unnecessarily close. He smelled like soap and spice and old paper, and despite whatever she had with Sebastian, it made her heart race and her skin tingle. <Ana, I cant do this.>
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<Hes good looking, hes a chess player, a politician, and a mage, just like Sebastian del Torlo. Hell, hes even about the same age. Drink more.> An hour later, when the crowd had begun to thin and the orchestra retired, Edward put his hand on her arm. Come. Well find a place out of the way. What are you up to? Wyrren asked, and set her glass down on the edge of a table. After all that champagne, she found her mind comfortably blurred. She no longer thought about little things, like how she ought to be standing or where to put her arms. Absolutely no good, Edward said, and grinned at her in a way that made Wyrren want to grab him and retreat in the same moment. He took her through a garden arch, along a brick path to a stone bench in a hedges enclave. Blinkerbugs flickered around them, climbed into the hedges leaves and branches. Edward sat, catching Wyrrens waist and pulling her on his lap. And now I have you all to myself. Part of her desperately wanted to hold him close, her loyalty to Sebastian yelled at her to draw away, that she was enjoying this too much, that it was too real. Champagne coated everything, blurring the lines, but it was the way he smelled and a strange familiarity about him that decided the matter, and she kissed his jaw and bit at his ear and gathered her skirt to straddle him. Edward slid a hand below her waist. Wyrren pulled his mask away and tossed it into a bush. While she could not move her lips, she could bite and make use of her tongue. She held his head in both hands, his long hair in her fingers, her tongue in his mouth, his throat making small, pleased sounds as she kissed him, and louder when she dug her nails into his shoulders. His fingers dug into the fabric of her skirt, pressing her into his lap, while his other hand crept up her leg. Her hair, which had been put up pins, came loose and draped around her face. A man cleared his throat behind her. Wyrren froze, her sense of space returning with a start, then turned to see whod caught them.
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Sebastian del Torlo stood on the brick path, his gloved fist to his mouth. Wyrren pulled herself out of Edwards lap so fast she fell off the bench, her face growing hot. Sebastian, she said. Her skirt was above her knee; she yanked it back down to her ankles. The grass shed landed on began dying. Yes, Sebastian said. Hello, Wyrren Id come to see how you were enjoying the festival. I apologize for interrupting. She caught the look on Edwards face; he wore a gleeful, malicious smile as if to an enemy. I suppose the party is over? Wyrren asked Sebastian. She picked up her mask. Just about, Sebastian said. The last guests are leaving and things are being cleaned. Ah. I see. Wyrren got to her feet and stepped away from Edward. As if that would help now. Did you have a good time? Not quite the time that you seem to have had, Sebastian said. Ill be off, then. Goodnight, Wyrren. Goodnight, Sebastian, Wyrren said, and her heart sank as he walked away. Why did he have to catch them? Why couldnt it have been anyone else? Her shoulders slumped. Something wrong? Edward asked, and stood behind her. He kissed her neck again, but this time Wyrren stiffened and pulled away. The Grand Meister is my host, Wyrren said quietly, as well as my friend. You seem to antagonize him and that was unkind. Im sorry. Im not used to this. Is there a reason I shouldnt be kissing you? Edward asked. No, Wyrren admitted, but was no less humiliated for that. I should return to my rooms. If you like. May I take you back? Edward offered his arm. Wyrren put her arm on his. The heart-pounding shivers that shed felt before Sebastian had caught them didnt return. Wyrren arrived at her room to find her bedroom door wide open.
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Saffira met them inside. Anas been hurt, she said. What happened? Wyrren released Edwards arm and dashed inside. There was Ana, laid out on her bed. Her beautiful burgundy gown had been torn around the midsection and stained with blood, but Wyrren saw no wound. A vivomancer healed her? Wyrren asked. I used a potion, Saffira replied. She has been poisoned as well, but she is stable. If I may? Edward said, and pushed past them both. He put his hand on Anas. His fingers began to glow green. Ten seconds later, Ana stirred. Edward let her go. Wyrren grabbed Anas hand and held it tight. Tell me what happened, Saffira. She screamed. I ran to her. Why did Wyrren assume Saffira would be helpful? Ana? Im alive, Ana said, but didnt try to get up. Were safe? Were safe. I picked a bad date. A man tried to knife me down an alley. What did he look like? Edward asked. Hell if I know. He was wearing a mask, Ana said. Like everyone else in this city. Well have to report this to Kearn, Wyrren said. Mr. Lowar thank you for your help, but I need to see to my sister now. I understand. If anything happens, call me, Lady Jadis. Ill be at your door in a moment. Wyrren thanked him again, escorted him out and locked the door, then returned to Anas bed. Strange, that Edward would be so good at vivomancy. That was Sebastians specialty as well. You flirted with the wrong man? Wyrren asked. Its more than that, Ana said, more frank now that they were alone. We were talking, he was joking around and he said glowing rivers. He didnt even think about it, moved right on I feigned a distraction, tried to turn back, and he realized hed made a mistake.
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Wyrren stared at the far wall. Glowing rivers was a Marlan curse: holy hells and all its glowing rivers. He got me with the knifes tip; I screamed my head off, people came running, Saffira shoved a potion in my throat and carried me off. I fell unconscious partway here. I can give you a list of poisons he might have used, if you want. He was trying to make you disappear, Wyrren said. Ana nodded. Yes. He was good at it, too. Wyrren looked for any explanation but the obvious one. It wouldnt come. Unlike the mystery between Sebastian del Torlo and Edward Lowar, this answer was very obvious. Marlan assassins, she said. Theyd come for her after all.
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Chapter 4
Wyrren sat at her sofa with her hands clasped around her mouth and nose, giggling hysterically. She could not make herself stop. The King de Marlas assassins, here. Here, where they did not use tunnels to move from one place to another. Where they had no threaders to counter the art. Where the sun lit everything, and you could see your target from a distance, and people did not think to look up when they entered a room. Shed survived her uncles abduction, her imprisonment in Vastii, the Kanichende revolt and coup, and her flight here only to die now? Hilarious. But eventually she stopped laughing and shook until she was sick. We could send to Duke Chyril for a threader, Ana was saying. There and back again is at least a months journey, Saffira replied. Even by way of portal to and from Astra. True, Ana said. Wyrrens not threatening anything here, though. They may let us have the time. They know you saw them. We can find a threader in Valdenemus, then, Ana said. Were not the only people ever to come out of Marla. Theyre rare, but they do exist. There are even more in Attica. I couldnt trust them, Ana, Wyrren said. No one I dont know.
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Shed just end up hiring the men coming after her; no unaffiliated threader would be fool enough to duel a specialist. She should have brought a threader with her. Why hadnt she brought a threader? I know a way to get you out of this alive, Ana said. How? Wyrren asked. Leave Hael Malstrom. Ana leaned forward and pushed Wyrrens hair from her face. We get Sebastian to give us a portal to the other end of the world. We step through, he closes the gate, and we never come back. See if they can track us then. Wyrrens stomach turned. Leave Sebastian. Sebastian wont have you, remember? Ana reminded her. With Edward threatening his life. Let Sebastian take care of himself! I wont abandon him! Wyrren yelled, abrupt and loud. Wyrren thought back to the fight in the catacombs, to threats of ending Sebastians line. Sebastian sobbing in the dark. The malicious grin Edward had sent Sebastian just an hour ago. I will not leave the people I love! Not now, not ever! Damn what becomes of me for it! I would not leave either of you in Vastii, and I will not leave him now! Anas lips pressed into a thin line. Then youre going to die. I need to the end of the week. Let me try to investigate. When Sebastian announces his engagement, and I see Edward leave, Ill run to the corners of the world. But not before. Thats stupid! What, I tell you not to sleep with every man you see. You dont listen to me either! This isnt about how I like to entertain myself! It nearly killed you this time! This is not about me! And if I am willing to gamble my life to ensure Sebastians safety, you wont stop me! Wyrren caught her breath, saw the hurt look behind her sisters anger, and softened her tone. You know what its like, having
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someone change your life. Youve been there, Ana. You know. I love you more than Sebastian does, Ana said. She wiped her eyes. Wet mascara smudged her finger black. I say we need to go. One week, Ana, Wyrren begged. Ill have Sebastian disguise me with magic. Ill use poison testers. Ill keep to private rooms. One week, Ana agreed, but reluctantly. She looked to Saffira. Do you think we can protect her for a week? Saffira looked at the ceiling. We can try. But we cant do it alone, Ana said. Theyre not all threaders. Id be killed if they were, and Sebastian has amazing bodyguards. Find Sebastian, and tell him whats happened privately, and ask him for help. She clasped Wyrrens arm. Wyrren nodded. Sebastian hadnt been told the whole story, and didnt know what sort of trouble that they were in. She would have to trust that hed forgive her for lying. Ill stay in my room as much as I can in the meanwhile. Tell Sebastian tomorrow that I must see him privately? Ana nodded. As soon as I can corner him. * * * Wyrren woke at dawn as she always did, and stared at sunlight on her ceiling. People in Hael Malstrom took daylight for granted. They understood the value of light in Marla. Wyrren bathed, but since she wouldnt be going out, didnt have Ana dress her. She put on a simple white shift and waited for Ana to arrive with breakfast. Was Sebastian really in the same sort of situation? Surely he had a plan of his own? But what it was, or what he had to fear that remained a mystery. The documents Sebastian had kept on top of his desk had been useless. By the time Ana arrived in Wyrrens room with a breakfast cart, Wyrren was desolidifying Sebastians desk in chunks, rooting through
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the drawers, and then using pieces of broken desk to replenish her sand supply. She was developing a headache; an inexact transfer backlashed on its practitioner, and the art was so fussy Keeping busy, I see, Ana said. You realize you can kill yourself with the art, dont you? You could be saving Kartania and those assassins a lot of work. Everyone knows this, Wyrren said. Thats why she had spent her childhood pursuing advanced math and calculus: to avoid an early death. So far the desk contained several books, a ledger, a wooden box, a drawstring bag full of letters, ink, wax, seals, fountain pens, a pair of small round blue glasses. She set them aside for breakfast, and ate with Ana, who seemed subdued. Ana told her that Kearn had launched an investigation to find the man that had attacked her. Shed been trying to get to Sebastian, but the man had barricaded himself in his tower, and wasnt coming out or taking messages. Kartania was more than a little huffy over it. Wyrren listened to Anas gossip while eating her chicken and poached egg, and considered. She wasnt making any progress with Edward staying in her room, either. After lunch Wyrren returned to the piles shed collected from Sebastians desk. Those letters looked interesting, but perhaps the box could be searched more quickly. It had been beautifully carved and inlaid with mother of pearl. If you wrote Sebastian a note, begging him to meet you in your room, this could go faster, Ana said. As soon as he accepts letters again. Or maybe Ill just poke it under his door and waggle it until security carries me off. Wyrren tried the lid. Locked. Meet him in my bedroom? Do you want Kartania to murder me? Ill write you the note, but itll have to be his office. Ana nodded. I bet this is because he caught you smooching Lowar last night.
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As if the Grand Meister has nothing better to be concerned about. Wyrren looked down at the lock and used her art to cut the box open. She gasped when she saw what was inside. Found something? Ana asked, and pushed her breakfast aside. These are the queens jewels, Wyrren answered. The queens crown, emerald leaves and sapphires in twisting golden vines, a matching necklace, ring, and earrings. She had seen them on a portrait of Sebastians mother over the northern stairs, but shed not realized that they were so beautiful. Ooooh. Ana stuck her head over Wyrrens shoulder. Oh, hes already written a note. She snatched a piece of folded paper nestled in the velvet casing. Then she tapped Wyrrens shoulder and handed it the square to her. You need to read this. Wyrren hesitated. You need to read this, Ana repeated. Wyrren unfolded the note. It had been addressed to her, and the message it contained was short. Perhaps this crown will suit you better than the last. Wyrren stared at the gold, the emeralds, the sapphires, at Sebastians handwritten note. He was going to make her his queen? Im going to see if hes out of his tower yet, Ana said. She left quickly. Wyrren touched the gold, let her finger linger over the gold branches, slip over a cluster of emeralds. Sebastian had said she wasnt a suitable match. He had been considering marrying her? Her? With her lost position and her crippled face and her social clumsiness? Ana had been right. She was the only person Sebastian saw, outside of work. He had made sure of that. Wyrren poured through all the letters with a renewed vigor; invitations to parties, thank you notes, breaches in diplomacy, border disputes, negotiations. They contained nothing about Edward. The letters werent getting Wyrren anywhere.
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You told Edward that I wouldnt be attending to the festival tonight? Wyrren asked Ana when her sister had returned. Yes, Ana said. He sends his apologies, and offered to help if you needed anything. I see. Thank you. But after Ana had left with the letter for Sebastian, Wyrren sent a message. <Edward? Is this a good time?> <Lady Jadis, for you, its always an excellent time. What can I do for you?> <How are you at illusions?> Wyrren sent. <Impeccable,> Edward replied. <Theyre my specialty.> <Wasnt vivomancy your specialty?> <Lady Jadis, I am a man of many talents. Is this a sexual favor? A fetish? I love fetishes. Who would you like me to be?> Wyrren returned. <Could you disguise me?> <Yes, of course. Does this mean youre coming to the festival after all?> <On the condition that you fool my sister.> Ana later told Wyrren that shed bullied Sebastians steward into putting Wyrren down for an appointment the following afternoon. It was the best that she could do, with Sebastian suddenly turning hermit on them both. Wyrren thanked Ana again, but meant to see him sooner. Wyrren knew where Sebastian would be that evening. Saffira stood outside of Wyrrens door after dinner, while Ana left to return the plates and trays. Unlike Ana, though, Saffira did what she was told without protest. Wyrren let Edward in when he arrived. I dont even know what to wear, Wyrren confessed, shutting the door. She still wore her simple thin white underdress. Ive always been dressed by servants or Ana. Ive never tried cosmetics myself And Ana knows all my dresses. Shell spot me. Not necessarily, Edward answered, smirking and eyeing her slip. I quite like you like this, personally.
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Youre hilarious, Wyrren said. But no, thank you. Here, Edward said, and went to her wardrobe. He pulled out a plain, every-day sort of affair. Put this on. Its not Put it on, and well drop into the city before the shops close, Edward said. Hurry. Five minutes later, Wyrren was a tall peach-skinned woman with an ordinary face and honey-blonde hair, stepping out of a portal mid-city with Edwards hand in hers. He found a gown of blue velvet and gold satin and bought it for her, along with a blue and yellow sun-and-moon mask. Wyrren didnt know herself in the mirror. She liked it. So, why are we hiding from your sister? Edward asked on the way to tonights party in the town centera massive courtyard with an elaborate fountain, enchanted colored lights to play off of the water. She thinks the men who attacked her may have been political enemies from Marla, Wyrren admitted. Shes trying to keep me safe. Edward smirked. Better to get forgiveness than permission? Better not to get caught at all. Dont use my name, and let me switch partners? Wyrren asked. She ought to have been terrified. Instead she felt excited, adrenaline rushing through her system. She was never this daring. It felt good. That should alleviate suspicion. I think I can do that, Edward replied. He seemed more amused than anything. She entered the banquet on her own and found herself in a raucous festival, music and blinkerbugs and dancing fountains all around her. There was a table at least a hundred feet long spread with a white tablecloth and platters on platters of food, the sort only a noble would get on a feast day in Marla, here for everyone to enjoy. Wyrren got a plate, and began to load it full. No one recognized her. No one looked back to stare at her face. She felt liberated. She ate with her mask barely pushed above her mouth. A stranger asked her to dance. She took his
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hand, and let him take her around the dance floor as if she had nothing to lose. Then she asked a new man to dance, and felt a rush of joy when he accepted. She wasnt Wyrren Jadis anymore. Not tonight. This must be how Ana felt all the time. A heralds voice boomed out over music, laughing, cheering, and conversation, announcing the entrance of the Grand Meister and Lady Kartania Riese of Doppel. Kartania wore a white dress that sparkled in the light, her dark hair loosely curled. Sebastian he wore that pleasant smile, the one he liked to hide behind. Wyrren watched him from the beverage table, sipping a pink wine. Sebastian passed very close by on his way to a high seat laid out for him in advance. Food was brought to him on carts and silver dishes with domed covers. In the meantime the partygoers around her discussed sportsof polo and magic games that Wyrren hadnt yet learned. They talked about musicians, the men playing here, and who should have been hired; the string quartet was traditional, yes, but trumpets were all the rage. They talked about Kartania, how she looked, what theyd heard about her assaulting the Marlan lady (Mordache, Wyrren thoughtthey were mordache, not Marlan) and apparently every other guard in the palacia, and what was Sebastian del Torlo thinking, going with a Doppel brute on his arm? She found Edward Lowar and led him out to dance. Edward seemed to think this was an invitation to make a grab for her butt. Wyrren shoved his hand right back. Behave. Never, Edward said, and grinned. The man seemed to like being refused more than he liked getting his way. And after this dance Ill have to let you go again. When can I sneak you off ? After the party, Wyrren said. So long as you find a way to get around my sister when you return me to my rooms. And this time she told herself that she wouldnt feel so guilty. He was an enemy, trying to use her. Doing the same was only fair, right? They parted again. Sebastian took to the floor with Kartania for
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a song, then left her to mingle with some of the local lords. One of the councilors that accosted Sebastian had an older, red haired wife who wore a fox pelt around her neck. Wyrren entertained an immature notion of letting the fox raise its head, look around, maybe drink the womans amber wine. The politicians moved on. Sebastian looked around, unoccupied for a moment. Wyrren left her drink, slid through the crowd, and grabbed Sebastians arm while she had the chance. Come dance with me, Wyrren said. Sebastian waved his murder back. Wyrren? he asked, sounding surprised. What are you doing? Why are you disguised? Im seducing you, Wyrren said, and pulled him back to the floor. Sebastian took her hand and put his other on her shoulder-blade. He was such a graceful man. Youve been avoiding me, Wyrren said. You know Ive been busy, Wyrren. Youve been locked in your tower all day, and Im trying not to provoke your future wife, Wyrren said. Which is difficult. Why did you refuse me? I didnt refuse you. Why did you refuse me five weeks ago? I thought we discussed this already. Why would you want to hear my answer over again? Sebastian asked. I believe I said, I understand and left, Wyrren said. Thats not a discussion. That was a poor attempt to avoid the issue on my part. I should have done better. Its a matter of politics. I was wrong to simply call you an ill fit. I apologize. Dancing is not the time to discuss this, though. Wyrren agreed. She took a mental step back; she had him here for a few minutes, but she didnt know the best way to use this time. What would Ana do? Youll see me tomorrow afternoon? Its important. Sebastian nodded. Of course. Ill make sure the time is made for
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Thank you, she said. Ive gotten used to seeing you more often than this, you know. I miss it. Sebastian seemed surprised. You should have told me. I would have given you the time you wanted, Wyrren. I assumed that you knew, Wyrren said. I always assume that you know these things. Ill take the fault for that. Had she really been that quiet? Did she come off as distant and secretive, too? I didnt want to disturb you. You wouldnt have disturbed me, Wyrren. My obligations are many, but Im not so trapped that I cant move them around for something important. Someone important. Wyrren pulled her mask onto her hair, looked him in the eyes and kissed him. Sebastian inhaled sharply, and for a moment Wyrren had her lips against his, his form stiff against her. Then he grabbed her and kissed her hard. Everyone knew the Grand Meister; hundreds of people could see them, but for a long moment she let the kiss linger and enjoyed herself. Nothing else mattered, not right now. Wyrrens heart raced, and underneath her illusion her white skin had gone purple, but if she could smile well. The music played on, couples danced around them. Wyrren touched Sebastians cheek, his beautiful hair. I should go, she whispered, and put her mask back on over her face. Tomorrow. Yes yes, tomorrow. Sebastian watched her turn and leave. Wyrren found the beverage table, and clutched a glass of wine with shaking hands. Shed done it. Shed kissed Sebastian. Hed kissed her back. Ana had been right. Right now, it seemed more significant than any amount of assassins, conspiracies, or politics. And while telling him she needed protection might have been the smart thing to do, Wyrren regretted nothing. She
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was safe for now. Then someone grabbed her mask and yanked it away from behind. Jadis, Kartania said. I thought I smelled a snake. Wyrren pressed her hand over her mouth. The partygoers around them had backed away, a small clearing forming around her. Four Doppel girls in party dress flanked Kartania. Excuse me? Wyrren asked, and took a step back. Theres no amount of magic thats going to fix your broken face, Jadis, Kartania pressed. What the hell is it that you think youre doing? Wyrren stopped backing up. She glanced at the people around her, then to Kartanias escort, then to Kartania herself. Sebastian wanted her. She knew that now. If you choose to fight Id like my mask, if you please, Lady Reise. Kartania stared at her for a long moment. Then she dropped Wyrrens mask and crushed it under her boot. There is your mask, Jadis. Thats your honor, too. You are a snake, Jadis! If this was Doppel, I would be putting you on a spit! Wyrrens posture straightened, and she looked pointedly down at the shorter woman. If you want a duel, Lady Reise, Wyrren said, then you will have it. But by Hael Malstroms laws, not yours. A slow, wide smile began to spread across Kartanias face. Then its a duel. Tomorrow youll get what you deserve, Jadis. I promise. Tomorrow after breakfast, Wyrren said. Ten oclock, outside the palaces real courtyard. Youll arrange the mediators. I have things to do. She bent down and gathered the mask into her hands. Done, Kartania said, and marched away. Her girls gave Wyrren nasty looks as they turned to follow. Wyrren started to the fountain. Kartania, right now, was the least of her concerns. <Edward?> she asked. <Of course, Wyrren. Give me a moment and Ill be about to whisk
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you away,> Edward replied. One could almost hear the smile in his mental voice. <Im next to the fountain,> Wyrren said. <Im afraid that Ive botched my disguise.> <Now how did you manage that?> Edward asked. <Your charge is a jealous, angry woman, Edward,> Wyrren returned. <There is no may have challenged with Kartania. Wyrren, has any ever told you that youre magnificent at getting yourself into bad situations?> Edward asked. <Its my greatest talent,> Wyrren said. <Id rather face her than spend the rest of my time here dodging her, though.> <Thats commendable, if not stupidly noble. You do understand that Kartania will show you no quarter?> Edward asked. <Ive specified that it will be by Hael Malstroms law,> Wyrren said. <She cant kill me, and there are vivomancers here. Pain I can handle, if worst should come to worst. Where are you?> <Coming,> Edward answered. A few seconds later he came around the side of the fountain. Well, my lady, it was a pleasure to meet you before you died. Stop that, Wyrren said. She handed him her shattered mask, which he pieced together with magic. He took her arm to escort her once shed put it over her face, as if it still mattered. They hadnt gone five paces before Ana materialized in front of them, a furious smile spread across her face. Mr. Lowar. Miss. Ill join you, shall I? she asked, and grabbed Wyrrens other arm. Nice to meet you. Ill just stay here, shall I? <If Kartania Riese doesnt kill you, Wyrren, I will,> Ana growled at her. <What the hell are you doing here?!> Helping? Wyrren asked aloud. Im going to skin you and wear you like a hat, Ana replied. Its good to see you, too, Miss Ana, Edward said.
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Edward received a good-night kiss at Wyrrens door, and a promise of compensation for the dress. Edward waved it away. I won a fortune from the Grand Meister a few days ago. Buying a beautiful woman a dress is the least of my worries. Good night, Lady Jadis. Ill have to ravage you tomorrow. Once inside Wyrrens room, Ana made Wyrren stand near the doorway and began checking her room for signs of tampering while they were gone. She emptied a glass of water that Wyrren had by her bedside, looked under the bed, poked at the fire. Wyrren sat down in front of her chess board and began playing a game with herselfher right hand against her left. Well, I hope youre happy, Ana said. Youre so stupid sometimes, Wyrren! What were you thinking?! People are out to kill you, and Kartania Riese is a trained fighter! Youre a desolidifier. You can conjure ice and little skeletons! You have the reflexes of of a blindfolded dog! Thank you, Wyrren said. Pawn forward. Knight takes pawn. Bishop protects the next pawn. Piece sacrificed, position acquired. The Marlan bone and jade clacked against her board as she moved, almost without thinking. Reflexes and reactions, intuition, decisions. One move led her to another, on to its inevitable conclusion. Whats the plan? Ana asked. The plan is that it doesnt matter if I win or lose, Wyrren said. Its that Sebastian knows that Im fighting. The rest is immaterial. Youre involved with Verrus, Ana. Tell him to have the murder nearby. A threader will kill the grass if he walks on it; watch for it. Then she just had to worry about surviving Kartania.
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Chapter 5
There was no sunlight on her ceiling the next morning. Rain beat against Wyrrens window instead. Ana came to her room with breakfast, bathed and dressed her. You have a little less than two hours, Ana said. Lets go over some basics. I have a plan, Wyrren said. Dont bother with the cosmetics today. Ana agreed and braided Wyrrens hair instead. Wyrren picked up another book from her pile of the contents of Sebastians deska red leather bound tome. You cant be serious. Youre reading now? Ana asked. Its relaxing, Wyrren said. I dont have all the time in the world, either. I might as well make the most of what free minutes come my way. She flipped the book open, then cocked her head, confused. Ana, have you ever heard of someone named Gideon Flynn? Gideon Flynn I dont think so. Why? Ana asked. Sebastian has his diary, Wyrren said. There was a date on the first entry, but it wasnt a date from the Marlan or the local calendar. Odd. She opened the book to flip through its pages. The book looked to be several hundred pages long, but something strange happened as Wyrren thumbed through it. When she reached the middle of the diary, the pages continued to flip bytext and sketches,
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little maps, handwriting shifts. But where it should have taken her a few seconds to reach the end, the middle continued on and on without visually progressing. She couldnt seem to reach the end of the book. One minute passed. Ana put her eyes at level with the beds surface so she could watch the page level fail to rise. Two minutes passed. Then five. What the hell? Ana asked. How long is that thing? It must have been over ten minutes by the time Wyrren reached the end. By then her thumb was hurting, as if rug-burned, and only two blank pages existed at the end. Some sort of enchantment? Wyrren asked. You think? Ana asked, sarcastic. Wyrren grabbed a pen and scrawled her name over the last page. Then she turned it. Another page had materialized. Enchanted it is. She scanned the last entry: Sebastians writing, dated three days prior. Well, Ana said. If Sebastians writing his deepest thoughts and feelings, I think youve found out what Edward and Sebastian are up to, she said. Youre not going to try to read it all, are you? Dont be silly. A book this long would take me months, Wyrren said, and began to turn the pages back, her eyes on the date. Shed arrived in Hael Malstrom a little over three months ago. Months, Ana said, and pulled a face. Its only millions of pages long. Probably less. Wyrren said, without breaking her eyes from the text. If I can thumb through a thousand pages in five seconds, at say ten minutes, that would be she did a few calculations in her head. One hundred and twenty thousand pages. A few months. I can get through a thousand pages a day if Im dedicated, and this book is hand-written. Finally, a use for your crazy reclusive habits, Ana said. Shush, Wyrren said. She skimmed, then read it aloud.
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Four months prior I have received word from Duke Chyril Jadis of Renideo that his daughter seeks political asylum in Hael Malstrom. She shall have it. The letter had barely touched my desk before I penned my answer and sent a messenger to Renideo with all haste. Last I saw Wyrren Jadis she was a young child. I am looking forward to seeing how she has grown. If she is half the woman I suspect shes become, and if shell have me, perhaps this may lead to something more. My last string of matches have been arranged for the sake of politics; perhaps I might have a choice of my own in her. Last string of matches? Ana asked. Hes got a secret harem? Hush, Ana, Wyrren said, though she wondered as well. Sebastian had never been married before. She knew that. Everyone knew that. But there was Sebastians handwriting, and the current date, in a book found in Sebastians desk. It looked real. Three months prior Wyrren is everything I hoped she would be. Intelligent, magically gifted, compassionate, amazing on a chessboard, able to discuss philosophy and law and every other subject I can think of at length. She has every courtesy that a noblemans child would have learned, but completely free of false pretense; polite, but will move straight to the point and speak plainly when needed. I could spend the rest of her life in her company and never be bored, I think. That said, I do not believe I will make any advances immediately. There is a darkness on her mind. Whatever she is hiding about the events in Marla, they come with their own deep wounds. I didnt stay to see the details. There is no rush. She will be safe in Hael Malstrom, and I have all the time in the world.
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Eleven weeks prior Wyrren and her two girls have settled into the palacia. Ive begun to draw Wyrrens attention to the study of magic in the library. I think that shell enjoy it, if our conversations over chess are any indication. Ive also taken pains to craft some additions to her mental magic spellher speech impediment embarrasses her; shell be able to speak with her mind when Im done. It seems my interest in her is not unrequited. Ten weeks prior I should have known that Wyrren would be particularly talented at necromancy. Mordache seem to take to it naturally, but in her case, I suspect that with practice she will have few equals. A thought passed through Wyrrens mind today, while we were conversing in the palace hallway. She is lying to me about her circumstances for coming here; they were far worse than she made them appear, it seems. I have said nothing on the subject to her. Perhaps someday she will come to trust me. Nine weeks prior It is too soon, but I am considering proposing to Wyrren. I dont think I would be rejected. Eight weeks prior I have taken Nassamituuqs jewels from the treasury and placed them in my desk. I cant decide on the wording. As if Ive never done this before. Seven weeks prior During my meeting with my council, the entire group brought up
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the subject of my marriage. They had rehearsed this ahead of time, it was clear. Doppels High Chancellor Jolcimer has a daughter that is pitched as a good choice, for the sake of my peoples welfare. I can not deny that they do have a point. Doppel is the one country I continue to have problems with. I have not given them an answer. Kartania is not what I had in mind. Six weeks prior The council will not stop. Wyrren, they say, has nothing to offer me. Damn them all. Five weeks, five days prior I have told Wyrren that I can not consider her for a match. It was a difficult conversation, but a necessary one, and did not last long. She only said that she understood and excused herself. I have never been so glad for her paralyzed face. One can pretend it does not move because she does not will it. I have stopped looking into her mind. I dont think I want to read its contents after this. Five weeks, four days prior Wyrren came to breakfast wearing a mask todaya painted porcelain half mask covering her mouth. It makes her look as if she is smiling. I can not say how much I hate it. Wyrren seemed to disappear from Sebastians diary for a time. Sebastian wrote nothing about Edward Lowar either, not until the day after they had arrived. Five days prior Kartania Riese has arrived, and my shadow has come with her. He is still calling himself Edward Lowar, and he is all smiles and jokes. There was no way to deny him a chess match as he challenged me
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in public, though. Hes back to his taunting, vile self. He brought me to the catacombs for a discussion. I wish hed threatened me somewhere he might have gotten caught; Id love to have him in my dungeons, imprisoned by his own facade. I wonder if he means it this time, or if hes just trying to make me jump again. Fours days prior It seems Kartania wants to wear me as jewelry. She is brash, possessive, and jealous. I suppose I shall grow used to it. She is young, and there are worse traits. Three days prior Lowar, the backstabbing, conniving, grinning weasel. He made certain to inform me that Wyrren will be on his arm this week, all the while giving me obscene hints about what he would be doing with her behind closed doors. I thought she was smarter than that. Cant she see what he is?! Why doesnt she know better?! I cant stand for it. I cant and I wont. Ill get her away from him somehow. Ive let it slip into some of the servants minds that Edward is stringing along a chain of women. Her gossip of a stepsister will pass the word on; maybe that will make her see sense. No reason to crack a nut with a sledgehammer if it is not needed. He called me a gossip! Ana looked outraged. Hes been snooping around in my head, Wyrren said. As a diary confession goes, thats not that bad, Ana said. If you had the ability to look in his head, youd use it too, and dont pretend youre above that sort of thing, either. Im more concerned about where these other wives went. She checked the time. Youd better be getting ready.
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I wonder what he means by calling Lowar his shadow? Hes still not talking about what the mans up to. It must be something in his past. They have met before, Wyrren said. But Ana was right; the appellation was odd. His rival or his enemy, she could see, but a shadow? A shadow seemed very close. This was getting her nowhere. Ill read more later. Perhaps shed start with Sebastian inheriting his fathers position, some sixteen years prior. She hoped Sebastians entries went back that far. Perhaps a communal diary was a tradition among Hael Malstroms rulers? Wyrren picked up a staff shed readied, a solid piece of wood that Kartania wouldnt snap easily. Wyrren wore no armor; if Kartania came close, then Wyrren would lose. She picked a simple dress and a pair of Marlan flat-heeled boots, specifically made for walking on ice. Youre sure you dont want a knife? Ana asked. No, Wyrren said. I dont expect to win this, and Kartania isnt my enemy. To some extent I sympathize with her predicament. I wouldnt want to come meet a political suitor and find another woman shoving me about. Of course, Wyrrens solution would probably be to ask them both to someplace with drinks and get to the bottom of the matter. Kartania must have had her heart set on Sebastian before shed arrived. They walked along the main hall, with its tall east-facing windows. Saffira fell in behind them. Theyd reached the main stair when Ana said, What if Sebastian isnt really Sebastian? What if someone killed the prince young, took his place with magic, then arranged for his father to die? And Lowar is say the son of the imposters partner in crime? Youre making this all up again from nothing, Ana, Wyrren said. He writes about having multiple political marriages in his diary. Youre certain that its Sebastians diary from his desk, in his handwriting, and the man has always been a bachelor. Everyone knows that. This isnt some repressive country where the people are afraid to talk, Ana said.
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You have an enemy who doesnt make sense being called a shadow following him around. Hell. What if Lowar is really Sebastian? What if they traded places? Wyrren stopped. End of the Torlo line, Lowar had said. Easily done, if there were no true Torlos left. Sebastian no longer being useful. Sebastian falling to pieces. And then there was the very strange fact that Sebastian and Edward, aside from the points where they were exact opposites, were very strangely similar to each other. What if Ana was right, and the man she knew as Sebastian had only learned chess to fill his role? And if he was an accomplished mind reader as well Not a word more of this, Wyrren said, then started out again. Youre still conjecting without evidence. She paused. They were on the ground floor now. Through the far double doors shed find her duel waiting for her. Ana, I want you to go find the oldest servants you can. The people whove been here the longest. Find out if there were any changes in Sebastians behavior before and after his fathers death, or if he had any childhood personality shifts. Ana gave Wyrren a knowing smile, which disappeared a moment later. But what if Kartania kills you? she asked. Then there will be some very disappointed assassins, Wyrren shot back. She straightened, grabbed her staff, took a deep breath. Terror was starting to build, like a metal hand squeezing her stomach. What was she thinking, dueling an experienced warrior? This wasnt supposed to be a fight to the death, but accidents happened. One last question, Ana said. If if Sebastians really a usurping villain then what? Then we protect him from his enemy just the same, Wyrren said. Sebastian obsessed over his job and he had relationship problems, but he was a good ruler who cared for his people. That seemed more important than how hed gotten himself in this position. Go. Ana left. Wyrren squared her shoulders and walked outside.
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* * * Kartania watched Jadis approach with her tattooed bodyguard, a staff in her hand, no other weapons, and no armor. Mages, Kartania muttered. Rain dripped from her own helm, and she could hear the tink of raindrops on the metal. Jadis had picked a thoroughly miserable day for this, hadnt she? She doesnt even know how to hold her staff, Adela said. Youll teach her a lesson? One she wont forget in a hurry, Kartania replied. She didnt come all the way to Valdenemus to be displaced by a two-faced ex-duchess from assassin-land. Jadis hesitated when she came to the green, then stepped off of the courtyard patio. Kartania? Adela said, her tone uneasy. The grass at Jadis feet was dying where she walked. Jadis stopped a few paces away from themhand tight about her staff, her false mouth curved into a painted smile, her blue eyes staring slack as if she were dead herself. Are you ready? Kartania asked, and stepped forward. She had nothing to fear from dead grass, and Wyrren Jadis didnt scare her. Jadis nodded once. Kearn Nosland had been the one to tell Kartania that there would be no more violence, so it was Kearn that Kartania had asked to officiate their duel. He looked between the women for a moment before he spoke. Im here to make sure this duel stays lawful. This is not a fight to the death, nor are you to treat it as such. If I call for you to stop, you will or you will be made to stop. The duel will end when one of you clearly cannot fight any longer. Do you both understand? Kartania bowed to Kearn. She accepted the rules, even if they differed from Doppels traditions. Jadis nodded a second time. I understand.
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Kartania had chosen a blunted sword, which she pounded against her shield thrice, scattering droplets of rain in all directions. Kearn stepped back and said, Begin! and Kartania started forward. She had a snake to crush. Jadis retreated, walking backwards. More grass with her every step. Kartanias girls began yelling, cheering Kartania on. Jadis bodyguard kept pace with her mistress at a distance, silent. Kartania scowled, increasing her pace until she broke into a run. Jadis swung her staff around to block Kartanias sword. Before the sword could reach the staff, though, Kartanias right foot slipped, and she fell flat on her face. Her shield crushed the sheet of ice that had materialized on the ground between them. A bitter cold emanated from around her, colder than any winter Kartania had ever felt, and it burned her skin. The rain turned to hail. Jadis moved better on ice than Kartania did. She stomped on Kartanias sword as Kartania struggled to get to her feet, slipping and pushing against the weight of her armor. A flash of sand fell out of nowhere, and Kartanias sword snapped. What was that?! Kartania abandoned the sword and rolled off the ice, back to the grass two yards to her left, and pushed herself upright there. Jadis stayed in her ice patch, which grew thicker and longer by the second. The ice steamed in the warm Hael Malstrom spring. Kartania sank into a deep stance, her shield raised against Wyrren, and called for her goddess blessing. The air rippled around her and the cold and ice began to retreat, more quickly than it had formed. Once she could get within striking distance of Jadis, Kartania advanced. Jadis set her staff in front of her to block. Kartania grabbed her staff and wrenched it, pulling it from the mages hands and throwing it behind them. Jadis hand went to Kartanias shield. Another sand-cloud fell.
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Kartania balled her fist and hit Jadis across the jaw, then slammed her with her shield. Jadis fell on her back. Kartania kicked at her. ]Jadis grabbed Kartanias calf with her bare hands, all dignity and semblance of combat gone. A moment later, there was a terrible pain behind Kartanias knee, and the leg dropped under her. Jadis must have hidden a dagger in her sleeve. Kartania, half fallen atop Jadis, pushed herself up, straddled the mage, and started to pummel Jadis with her gloved fist. She heard the snap of bone and the shatter of her second mask. Jadis screamed, shoving against her with what little strength she had. Blood covered her slack mouth and chin. Then Kartania grabbed Wyrrens throat and squeezed her windpipe next. Someone was yelling at them, and Kartania felt pain in her shoulder. Her right arm stopped responding. Someone grabbed Kartania and pulled her away. Kartania struggled, yelling and cursing. Jadis bodyguard grabbed Jadis and pulled her into her lap. Jadis gasped and coughed, though she looked just as blank and lifeless as when the fight began. An arm laid disembodied on the dead grass between them, and it took Kartania a moment to realize that it was her own. Then the vivomancers appeared and grabbed the limb, and set about reattaching it to Kartanias body, while Kartania yelled at them to hurry up, that the fight wasnt over yet. Her head spun and the grass around her seemed to be covered in blood. * * * Wyrren folded her hands and stared at her lap, sitting in front of the crackling fire in Sebastians office. Am I supposed to apologize? Wyrren asked. Her stockings and dress hung from the mantle while she sat in her slip. This was the third mask Kartania had broken, and despite her state of undress it was the loss of her mask that made her feel naked.
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Sebastian sighed, shaking his head, sitting in the chair next to hers, his turned sideways to face her and not the fire. No. You accepted a challenge to duel, and you did so you certainly scared everyone with your performance though, Sebastian said. I challenged Kartania. She didnt challenge me, Wyrren said. Her loss seemed inevitable. I admit, I panicked near the end. I dont like to be held down like that. My plan was to turn the terrain to my advantage. She knew how to tread ice very well. Sebastian nodded. I dont think that people can fault you for fighting back. I cant say that the council is going to like this incident, though. The council, Wyrren repeated. Shed had very little to do with the council; shed always been a guest and nothing more. If I had not challenged Kartania, I expect she would have continued hassling me. Kartania has gotten her way, and I survived. I hope thats enough for her, but it may not change anything. You seem to have changed though, Wyrren. Wyrren raised her gaze to meet Sebastians eyes. He had such lovely eyes. Perhaps, Wyrren admitted. In some ways. This isnt why I asked to meet with you, though. I didnt think it was. What is this urgent meeting about, anyhow? Sebastian asked. Kearn probably told you one of Anas dates attacked her the evening before yesterday? Yes, I received that news. She made a full recovery, though? he asked. She was knifed and poisoned. Wyrren paused. Ana said that the man who attacked her was Marlan. He was trying to lead her off somewhere private. Why would a Marlan be trying to do something like that, Wyrren? And why am I only now hearing this from you? Sebastian asked. You should have told me at the dance.
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I was trying to keep it quiet, Wyrren admitted. We didnt want it getting out in the open. Id rather the city not know that the new King de Marla would pay for my head. We have a nasty reputation as it is. You need to give me a proper explanation, Sebastian said. You know that they dont want me coming home, Wyrren said. Sending assassins here though? Thats different. Wyrren looked back down at her folded hands. Things may have gotten worse in Marla than Id originally told you, she admitted. Im sorry for deceiving you. Getting away was a little more important at the time than perfect honesty. Sebastian motioned for her to continue. Wyrren nodded. She had to get to this eventually. Im wanted for regicide, she said. On three counts, technically, though only the first is true. Im very talented at getting myself into trouble. So it seems. Can you tell me what happened then, not just the outcome? he asked. Thats something of a story, Wyrren said, reluctant. Her folded hands clenched each other tight. Youre very busy I will make the time Wyrren. Please you can tell me, Sebastian said. Shed been avoiding even thinking about this since she had gotten out of Marla. She wanted to leave it behind her. Instead, it seemed to follow her like a shadow of her own. You dont fight wars with armies in Marla, Wyrren said. Two years ago, there was an incident in our capital, Vastii. A favorite slave of the kings raped and killed a diplomats daughter from our region. He was found guilty and yet went unpunished. It was the catalyst for a war long coming. My father began to find ways to get independent of the king. I dont know who he sent to Vastii, but things escalated. While I was traveling last year I was kidnapped with Ana and one of my slaves by the kings men. They brought me to the capital as a hostage. I What happened next is probably my own fault. I didnt want
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to cooperate with the king. I was his niece, he wanted to win me to his side of the dispute. He pushed, I pushed back. I found a way to hurt him, and I was caught at treason. He Wyrren stopped, held there for a time, then began speaking much more quickly. Things were bad, Sebastian. The people were starving in the city, there was plague and talk of revolt, and my uncle ignored it all. I I was raped and tortured for disobedience. I had an ally who talked me into killing my uncle. He said he could steer things differently, and She stopped again. Her hands squeezed each other tight. I dont want to talk about this, Sebastian. As Kartania had just discovered, Wyrren didnt like being held down on the ground. I think I understand, Sebastian said softly. I wish you hadnt kept this from me though. Wyrren nodded and shivered, holding her arms tight. She couldnt bring herself to look at Sebastian any longer. And now there are Marlans here. Probably mordache as well. I I dont have a threader, Sebastian. Were scared. I promised to protect you when you came here. I intend to keep my word, Sebastian said. He rose from his seat and put his hand on Wyrrens shoulder. You dont have to worry. You will be safe here. Wyrren chuckled despite herself. Have you ever watched a mordache assassin, Sebastian? Ana got lucky. She faced a human, and she has training of her own. The mordache Id fall over dead, and youd never see a thing. I was hoping the illusion last night would keep me safe, but Kartania saw through that after our dance. I dont know if that will work twice. Unless you have a way to track them down first. What could he do, make every man in the city press his hand against a plant and see who killed it? The only way to counter a Mordache Threader was with another Threader. I have an idea, to track them down. If it works I could have them before the day is out, Sebastian said. He sounded sure of himself. You really have a mordache-tracking spell? Wyrren asked. He was
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a mind-reader, though. Perhaps that was how hed manage it. No, Im sorry. If you think you can handle this, Ill be grateful. Ana wants me to stay in my room, but I suspect I might be safer with one of the murder nearby in the meantime. I cant work on tracking them and keep you with me, though. As much as I hate to suggest something like this. Youll be safe around a capable mage. Edward Lowar will do, until Ive captured these assassins. What? You trust Edward Lowar to keep me safe? she asked, carefully casual. I dont trust Lowar in the slightest, but he is an exemplary mage. He also seems to have taken a liking to you if the other night was any indication. He will keep you safe, Sebastian said. Id like to know why, Sebastian. Hes supposedly something of a player, and you know he could sell me to the Marlans for a lot more than the fortune he won from you half a week ago, Wyrren said. Ive been going with him because he asked, and frankly Im interested in keeping tabs on him and Kartania, but this is different. And didnt you just meet him a few days ago? I doubt hes enough of a bastard to simply sell you to the Marlans. I do know that his magic rivals my own, and I wouldnt say that lightly, Sebastian said. I think anyone who wouldnt sell a girl they barely knew for a fortune must be a very good man, Wyrren said, but relented. There was more going on here than she knew, and Sebastian wasnt going to tell her his secret. She took his hand from her shoulder and held it instead. Thank you. Of course Wyrren. I want you to have a place here, Wyrren. To have a home here, Sebastian said. Sebastian Im going to have to leave after you marry. At the very least then I can make it safe for you to leave, Sebastian
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said. His hand held hers tight, though, and his voice betrayed him; he didnt want Wyrren to leave. Wyrren shut her eyes and nodded, and let Sebastians hand go. She didnt want to leave, either, but if he went ahead with his plans, there was no way around it. Thank you, Wyrren said, and got to her feet. Be safe, Wyrren. Ill let you know once I have them. Wyrren nodded, and for a moment she thought about stepping close to him instead of collecting her dress. She hesitated, doing neither. Sebastian Sebastian kept his eyes on her, his lips pressed together, his eyes sad. He didnt move away from her either. The fire crackled and popped. Neither were willing to be the first to step away. Sebastian finally reached for Wyrren, and he pulled her close and wrapped his arms around her. Then he kissed her, as she had kissed him when theyd danced the night before. Wyrren shut her eyes, enjoying every moment. Her arms went around his shoulders, and she barely breathed. Why didnt you do this weeks ago? she whispered, and rested a hand against his cheek. Im a fool, Wyrren. Im so sorry, Sebastian said. Wyrren brushed Sebastians bangs from his eyes and nuzzled her nose against his, enjoying just being there. He kissed her again, his hands on her waist. She could feel his fingers through the thin fabric of her slip. Lock the door, Sebastian? Wyrren whispered. The doors lock gave an audible click. Wyrren unbuttoned his heavy jacket. He had to help, pulling off his heavy gold pendant. Chair? she asked. Sebastian kissed her again. Or theres the desk, he said. Wyrren glanced across the room, surveyed the enormous desk. Messy, busy. He had plenty of paperwork strewn about, as usual. All important things to finish. Youre sure? she asked. Sebastian waved his hand. Wyrren heard wind, and every paper,
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letter, and book was swept onto the floor. Absolutely. Wyrren grabbed him by the collar and dragged him there. * * * Kartania Riese had a less pleasant meetingshe sat at the end of a long table, half of the Hael Malstrom council sitting around her in the councilors building in the heart of the government district. There was even some men in the audience; she recognized the big shaved redhead from Sebastians murder in the balcony wings, and resented him for watching. Kartania explained the afternoons eventsthe challenge, the duel, which had been initiated by Jadis and conducted by Hael Malstroms laws, with the proper vivomancers and Kearn Nosland in attendance. It really isnt the point, Lady Riese, said one councilor, a pear shaped man with big, sloping shoulders and gray sideburns. Just because it is legal does not mean that it is acceptable behavior for a lady in your position. We understand that you are from a much more free society, but this can not continue, Lady Riese! We are trying to work with you, and we are very interested in good relations with Doppel, but not at the expense of our dealings with the Renideo Duke. This is not diplomatic. Your Grand Meister has not been quite diplomatic, either, Kartania observed. He kissed her in front of half the county last night! I trust you didnt call me here so you could scorn me in person? What did it take to please these people?! No one wants that, the councilor said. And we can promise you, the Grand Meister has every intention of making amends with you before your engagement is announced at the end of the week. Starting with his most heartfelt apologies, and the immediate removal of Lady Jadis from the palace. Now, in return, I trust that you and your girls will conduct yourself in ways better befitting a noblewoman of our
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culture? If it would get rid of Jadis? Absolutely, Kartania replied. Well be perfect simpering babes. The councilor frowned. I dont appreciate being mocked, Lady Riese. Were asking you to be polite. There is a difference. Kartania made herself smile. She hated this country more every day. Of course, Kartania said. I meant to disrespect. Sebastian will confirm all this, of course? You have our word. * * * Afterward, Wyrren put her chin on his shoulder and held him tight, and started laughing into his skin, nuzzling and nipping at him. Youve sullied your office, you know. Sebastian laughed and put an arm around her, staring up at the ceiling. I couldnt be happier about it. Wyrren started kissing his neck. When Kartania went after me the first time, she got me so mad I told her we did this every day during our chess hour. Id never get any work done, were that true, Sebastian said. I had wondered what youd said to make her hit you. That wasnt my brightest moment, Wyrren said, and paused, looking at him. I heard you and Lowar fighting, after your match. In the catacombs. You heard us fighting why were you in the catacombs? Its the best place in the palacia for necromancy practice, Wyrren said. Dont change the subject. Tell me whats going on. Wyrren you werent meant to hear any of that. Its a dispute between Lowar and myself thats been going on for a long time, Sebastian said. A dispute? Ana and I have an ongoing dispute. About whether her
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sleeping with half the palace is acceptable. Threatening to kill you and orphan Hael Malstrom is not a dispute. Sebastian sighed. If you give me some time Wyrren Ill explain everything to you. Just not now. Really. You have something pressing to do? Wyrren asked. I do need to track down the men hunting you, Sebastian reminded her. Oh. That. Wyrren stopped asking questions, then turned his head and kissed his lips. I suppose, she agreed, and sat up. Her slip and underclothes were on the floor, mixed up with his scattered papers and books. An inkpot had made a puddle, staining a swath of documents. I wont leave you in the dark forever, I promise, Sebastian said. Wyrren slid off of his desk. I will ask again, Wyrren said, dressing. Youre sure I should go with Edward tonight? Yes. Hell keep you safe, Sebastian said. This seemed to be getting stranger by the hourEdward wanted to kill him, but Sebastian trusted him completely in this? Wyrren puzzled over it as she slid her wet dress over her head. Before she left, though, she paused and squeezed Sebastians hand. This This isnt going to be Were not finished, right? No, we arent finished. You just have to give me time to work everything into its place, Sebastian said. Wyrren nodded. Ill contact Edward. Good luck, Sebastian. She unlocked his office, hoping desperately that that office had been sound-proofed. She sent a message to Lowar, telling him that she still wanted to go to the festival, then to Ana to pick out her clothes. When she arrived at her suite, Ana locked the door behind Wyrren and propelled her to the bathtub. You remember what you asked me to do, before the duel? It took Wyrren a moment to recallAnas latest theory about Sebastians big secret. Yes? Hot water began to fill the tub, and Wyrren began to strip the filthy wet clothes she had worn there. She hoped Ana
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wouldnt notice her new bruises; that desk had not been comfortable. So I went and found the oldest people still working at the palace? Servants, cooks, that sort of thing, and I asked them about Prince Sebastian? Wyrren, he was entirely different. I mean, Sebastian was a carefree slut-boy. His father Gabriel kept having to stifle all these would-be scandals. Then suddenly, daddy dies and Prince Sebastian gets suddenly mature and responsible and different. Your Sebastian del Torlo is a fake.
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Chapter 6
The largest public party scheduled that evening was to be held at the riverfront, on either side of the citys main bridge. Noisy, crowded, with the richest and poorest both in attendance; it would be a security nightmare. Even with Sebastians assurances that she would be protected, Wyrren wasnt about to try her luck. Instead she asked Edward if perhaps they might attend a smaller, private party. Edward promised that it wouldnt be a problem, and found a garden party hosted by one of the men of the councilthe party stretched from the gardens in front of his manse, inside the first floor, then out to the back gardens and the artificial pond filled with lovely orange and pink fish. They looked delicious; Wyrren wondered when theyd be eating them. This was the third night of the festival. Wyrren had known Edward for five days now. Shed just made love to Sebastian, and had never been inclined to polyamory. She had a history since she was fourteen of obsessing solely on one man and one man only. She could count her age by her crushes better than her birthdays. Yet somehow, even with Sebastian so fresh in her mind, Edward could make her hand tingle when he stroked her fingers, as if it were Sebastian touching her instead. It left Wyrren cursing herself internally for her suddenly overexcited hormones. What was wrong with her?
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Edward hadnt affected her so much before shed had Sebastian. She ought to be losing any interest shed once felt, not the other way around. Was he using magic somehow? You survived your encounter with Kartania, I see, Edward said when they arrived. You saw that hours ago, Wyrren said. Dare I ask how terrible I looked? Youre not giving yourself enough credit. Kartania lost her arm, half her knee, and passed out while they were healing her. Edward cocked his head to the side. Lady Jadis, can I ask something? Youve been fighting with Kartania since she arrivedover the Grand Meister, no less. What are you looking to be? His mistress? It doesnt suit you. No, Wyrren said. That had never been her choice. If he marries Kartania, Ill leave. Interesting. Where? Edward returned. I havent considered it, Wyrren said. Im particularly fond of the universityIve been taking math classes therebut it is a little too close. Especially if Marla continues to give me trouble. Perhaps you should travel, Edward said. Theres much more of the world than Hael Malstrom and Marla. You should see the cliffs on the Attican coast make your way north along the Tameric River. Visit Doppel, maybe? Perhaps, Wyrren said. Not getting your way could be a great adventure. One which she did not want to go on. She could almost feel Sebastians mouth on hers, his hands on her skin. She would love to be his queen. Or was that an invitation? I like your company, when I can get it, Edward said. Even if I seem to be playing tug-of-war for you. Of course it is. Think about it? Wyrren nodded. I will, she promised. What was he up to? They had no dancing at that party. Edward offered Wyrren a plate of snacks, and took her to a chair out in the garden terrace. Ana had
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arranged to be nearby, and had secured Verrus for her date. Wyrren took off her mask to eat and drink, and Edward gave her a lazy, appreciative look with his chin in his hand that made Wyrren blush and look elsewhere. She pressed a napkin over her mouth. You really do hate your face, dont you? Edward asked. More than anything. Id rid myself of it in a moment if I could. People see me and they make assumptions, she said. Though both Sebastian and Edward were exceptions to the rule. Assumptions are dangerous. People like you help the rest of us learn better, Edward said. No one said such things. Ever. Wyrren stared. Thank you, she said finally, not knowing how else to respond. She hadnt shown her crippled face in public for weeksnot unless she was eating. She reached for her glass, flattered and uncomfortable both. The pain struck so suddenly that Wyrren fell from her chair. Her wine glass shattered against the tables edge a moment before she hit the stone terrace. Ice clutched at her under her rib cage; her veins burned from the inside; her heart and lungs contorted, turning themselves inside out. She heard screaming and yelling, saw boots pounding the terrace, the lamps with tails of light above as she whipped her neck to and fro, clutching herself, clawing her skin. Someone shouted her name. The pain stopped. Wyrren took a gasping breath. Ana had her arms around Wyrren, holding her with arms and legs both in a fierce grip, her chest against Wyrrens back, pushing her head down. She heard screaming close by. What-- Threader, Ana hissed in her ear. Wyrren began to look around her. Beyond a forest of human legs writhed a screaming man, devoured by black nothingness with violet edges. He was already missing his legs and half his chest. Ana grabbed Wyrrens hair and yanked her back into her embrace. Get!
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Then Wyrren heard a dull, wet thud, and felt a shove forward, pushing her to her hands and knees, her forehead on the pavement. Ana gasped and grabbed her tighter, still pressed close. Dont move. Dont you dare move. Ana squeezed Wyrrens arms so hard that it cut off circulation, and Wyrren shook, still feeling the echoes of ice in her gut from the threaders attack. Wyrrens right lung squeezed. Her dress was wet, and every breath felt like she was being stabbed. Wyrren started coughing, a wet, rattling cough. Every time she shifted even the slightest bit Ana made the sound of pain so intense she choked instead of screaming. Wyrrens vision blurred, and she tried to leave Ana to lay down, hacking and spitting out mouthfuls of blood. She could hear her heart in her ears, like a vast army marching together. Wyrren! Edward turned back to her and looked in her eyes. He seemed afraid, and reached out to snap the head off the crossbow bolt that had gone through her chest and Anas abdomen. Dont move. Then Sebastian was there as well, his face white when he saw what had happened. Wyrren hadnt felt the crossbow bolt go in, but she felt them take it out, sliding it from Anas stomach and her chest both. Two enemies worked together to heal them without word or argument, moving in perfect unspoken coordination. * * * When Wyrren woke, she found herself laying on a red sofa in a tan room, decorated in upscale dark wood furniture. A vase of lilies had been placed in the dark window, and she could see party lamps hanging from the trees. Her dress was gone; she was back in her slip and underclothes, but when she touched her chest she found that the hole in her slip was not matched by any wound in her skin. Her pillow shifted slightly; they were a mans legs, and realized her head was resting in Edward Lowars lap.
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Awake finally? Edward asked. His clothes were clean, somehow. He leaned back on the sofa, savoring a dark cigar, and had one arm laid across the sofas back. He seemed decidedly pleased with himself. Where are my clothes? I dont think even magic could salvage that dress, Lowar said, and blew a smoke ring. The lady of the house will loan you something, when youre ready to go home. Were still in the mansion? Wyrren thought about sitting up, but decided against it. Where was Sebastian? Is the party still going on? What happened? The party was cancelled after you were attacked. The good councilman was kind enough to loan us one of his private sitting rooms on the second floor while you recovered, Edward answered. The Grand Meister is leading the investigation below. The entire murder are prowling around downstairs in case there are any more. Your bodyguard Saffira brought in the bowman. Dropped his unconscious body at Sebastians feet like a cat with a kill and a new carpet. If you care to know, you nearly had your soul ripped out, and were shot and poisoned. Ana? Wyrren asked. Alive, though it was a close call. She got the first dose of poison on that bolt and it nearly killed her. She kept them from getting a clear shot at your head, incidentally. Once she stabilized she was taken back to the palace. He began to stroke her hair. Wyrren nodded. She felt so very sore. What was that? she asked. The blackness that ate the threader? She assumed that had been the threader, but how had Edward been able to tell who the culprit was? Magic, Edward said. Very, very effective magic. Wyrren closed her eyes, not quite believing it. Only a threader could counter a threader. Edward continued to stroke her. After a while, he continued. Its called Biskmatry, if you care to
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know. Its an antithesis to all things. Life, death everything. Your mordache art is a tainted form of life magic, you know. Thats why you kill grass and attract the dead. Biskmatars are natural opposites to your people. We can feel you. Were that man a stronger threader? Wyrren asked. No, Edward said. Your art is tainted. The taint weakens it. But my vivomancy, necromancy those are counters. When did you become such an expert on everything? Edward laughed. I am a particularly talented man. Wyrren didnt move her head from his lap. She was starting to feel attracted to him again. As if sensing that, Lowar leaned forward and kissed her. He tasted like that cigar, cedar and spice, and he was very bold with his tongue. Wyrren kissed him back, then made herself sit up. She desperately wanted him; it took every ounce of willpower she had to shake her head and scoot away. She had Sebastian to think of. You are a scoundrel. Lady Jadis, I am a fount of moral shortcomings, Edward said, all of which Id be happy to demonstrate to you in detail, if youd permit me. I dont think thats going to happen. She wanted to kiss him again; maybe try that cigar herself and compare the two. At least her face would betray no such thought. What was wrong with her? I do my best. When youre strong enough, Ill get one of the Murder to carry you back to the palacia. You can stay in my rooms tonight. I swear no one else will be able to harm you. * * * Verrus accompanied Sebastian to the dungeons under the palace, which were small, windowless stone paths, mainly used for special and political prisoners and short term holding cells until they could be moved to the local jail. Three more of the murder joined them before
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the Marlan assassins cell was openedKearn, with his black cloth mask over his mouth, Corvin, in his black clothes and bandoliers of knives, and followed last of all with Ornil, one of the triplets, who told Sebastian that Fervius and his brothers accompanied Lady Jadis. The head jailer opened the cell for the Grand Meister, pushing heavy iron door inward and revealing what looked to Verrus eyes to be an average looking man, clean shaven, his short dark hair receding, his party clothes torn after Saffira had tackled him. Not the sort of man youd expect to pull out a crossbow and shoot a pair of girls from a rooftop. Sebastian stopped forward and surveyed the would-be assassin. My name is Sebastian del Torlo. Im the ruler of Hael Malstrom. I need to know the names and locations of your associates, he said. Fuck you, the prisoner said, and did not look up. If youre waiting for the poison youve taken, its been neutralized, Sebastian continued. Hael Malstrom boasts some of the finest healers in the world. Your associates? <How many has he caught already?> Verrus asked Kearn privately. <He found two in the city prior, one which he took alive. This is the fourth,> Kearn returned. <As I understand it, the Grand Meister has been using biskmatry to track them. Assassins without the mordache magic will have slipped by. May I ask you something, Verrus?> <Yes, of course,> Verrus replied. <Ana. I know she is a courtesan. Does she have assassins training as well?> There was a holler in the cell, over Sebastians patient, insisting voice. Verrus looked away. <Not that shes admitted. I think she is, though. She can be a social monster when shes properly motivated. A very specific type of assassin, perhaps.> Rhetorically speaking, if Ana was out to kill him, hed given her plenty of opportunities. Golems who projected themselves as men werent immune from poison.
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 Kearn answered. There was another yell from the cell. Corvin seemed to enjoy the sound of pain. Verrus pretended that he hadnt noticed. The sound of footsteps came down the hall, followed by their creator: older man with a cane and a black hat. He was one of the men on the council, Mr. Kitch, who looked, in Verrus opinion, like a rather proud walrus. Mr. Kitch smiled briefly in greeting, but motioned Verrus to stand aside, and took his place outside the cell door while he waited for Sebastian to finish. The prisoner had tensed, but said nothing. Sebastian had his hand on the mans head and seemed to be focusing intently. When Sebastian left the room a few minutes later, Mr. Kitch was the first to speak. Mind reading isnt the best way to get information, your grace. Youre the only one with evidence. Marlan assassins seem to be quite resistant to other means of persuasion Im afraid. I didnt have the time to wait for this man to break. I dont think youre here to critique my interrogation skills though, are you Mr. Kitch? Sebastian asked. No. I cant say I like assassins in Valdenemus, either, Mr. Kitch replied. The councils been trying to patch things up, after your indiscretion at last nights ball toward Lady Riese. We will need your cooperation. My cooperation? Im not sure I understand what youre saying Kitch. Please, enlighten me, Sebastian said. Specifically? Kissing other women in front of your soon to be fiance and half the country is bad manners, Kitch said. As was her duel with Lady Jadis this afternoon. The council has nothing against Lady Jadis, but hosting her any further is not in the countrys best interest. Not if this is going to keep happening. A single woman is not going to suddenly throw this country into disarray. I understand my mistake, but not hosting Wyrren now would
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be as good as sending her to her death with these assassins about. If youd like to understand the scope of a political incident then you can write the letter to Chyril Jadis explaining how we stood by and let his only daughter be murdered after pledging her safety. Weve already given your word that she would be leaving the palace, Mr. Kitch said, though that was before tonights incident, yes. You must at the least apologize to Lady Riese, and it would be in Lady Jadis best interest that she stay out of sight. Your sight, in particular. I will apologize to Kartania, but since you all see yourselves fit to give my word then you can retract it as well. I can fix these problems as long as people arent going behind my back and making them worse, Sebastian said. Then we can still expect you to announce your engagement to Lady Riese at the end of the Blinkerbug Festival? Mr. Kitch asked. You can expect whats best for this country, Kitch, Sebastian said. Is that all then? Ive a very pressing matter to attend to. Dammit, Sebastian, we had a deal! Im not backing out of the anything, Kitch. Your assumptions arent improving, Sebastian said. Forgive me, Grand Meister, but this is important. Jadis has been making trouble, and you dont seem eager to do anything about it. Id like some assurance that were on the same team. Your engagement to Lady Riese? I will uphold the engagement if I can. If Lady Riese will have me and if it continues to be the best course of action, Sebastian said. Thank you, your grace, Kitch said. We will inform Lady Riese that the situation has changed, with the appearance of assassins in the city. There was a slight hesitance to Kitchs voicesomething that said he didnt entirely believe Sebastian, and wondered what to do if Sebastian did this again. Ive never steered this country wrong Kitch, you know that. You, and the rest of the council need to have some faith in me. This is a
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delicate, complicated situation. Im trying to track every facet so that we can all come out better for it. Just allow me the time to see things through, Sebastian implored him. You have until the end of the festival, Kitch said. Let the lady down gently, then. He didnt need to say which lady he was referring to. I wouldnt have it any other way, Sebastian assured him. Kitch nodded. Good. Thank you. He paused, then continued, in a gentler voice, Dont worry about it, either. Youre youngbut eventually they all turn into hags in the end. The one you wanted and the one you didnt want both. Sebastian nodded. Kitch left. Verrus pretended not to have noticed anything. * * * Edward spent the morning trying to seduce Wyrren. Wyrren held out on pure willpower, and made a mental note to see if there really was something wrong with her later. It wasnt just his suave lines and his funny banter that drew her, either: he felt like a lover, somehow, and she didnt know why. Sebastian fetched Wyrren just before breakfast. He waited until they had left Edwards doorway before he spoke. I had the assassin interrogated, Sebastian said. I have all the information that I need now. The murder are scouring the city. We will be rid of those men before the night is done. Sebastian took her hand as they walked. Are you alright? I wasnt able to attend to you after the chaos. Im fine, Wyrren assured him, and she squeezed his hand. A little shaken after everything, but fine. Thank you. I didnt think it could be done. How had he found a team of Marlan assassins so quickly? Her people were famous for being elusive and deadly. Im nothing, if not resourceful in situations such as this, Sebastian
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said. I was hoping though, that we could have a word in private. Perhaps you might accompany me back to my tower? Your tower? Wyrren knew what he meant, but still had some trouble believing it. She studied Sebastian and didnt like what she saw. He was frowning in the distance and seemed upset. His hand squeezed hers tight. I yes, Id like that. She needed that, after refusing Edward so many times. Good. It will be nice to spend some time with you. Is everything alright, Sebastian? Wyrren asked. Last nights close call aside? You did sleep at some point? Yes. Ive had my rest. Its just that there is trouble with the council, he said. You didnt think theyd let you change your mind easily, Wyrren said. He was finally telling her when he wasnt happy, and he wasnt smiling. Is there something I can help with? Im afraid not. Theyre going behind my back and promising things with my word. I dont think you can fix that, Sebastian said. Im making everything more difficult, arent I? Wyrren asked. Nothing is easy Wyrren. Nothing worth doing, anyway. Sebastian said. This is just another obstacle. Wyrren felt her face go warm. She wanted to smile. I love you, she whispered. Sebastian smiled at her, drawing her close for a moment and kissed her forehead. Come lets get to my chambers, he said. Wyrren nodded and followed, excited and guilty both. * * * What are we doing, exactly? Kartania asked, for the third time. She wasnt usually roused this early in the morning by Mr. Lowar, and hoped that there was good reason for this. This is a learning expedition Kartania. Just bear with me. Edward
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said. He took her down one hall, turned, then down another until he glanced around a corner ahead. There, peek around that corner slowly and tell me what you see, he instructed. Kartania sighed. Mr. Lowar was a decent adviser, but she hated his riddles. She stepped up to the corner and glanced around as he said, expecting one of his jokes. Instead, she saw Sebastian opening the door to his private quarters, Wyrren Jadis stepping through. Wyrren stopped, turned, kissed him full on the lips, both arms tight around his shoulders. Then she caught his hand and tugged him inside. Kartania grabbed her knifes hilt on her belt and bounded forward. Edwards arms were around her the next moment, his hand over her mouth, pulling her back around the corner. The Grand Meister hadnt noticed the scuffle. The door shut behind them. Edward let her go. Kartania pushed him away, teeth clenched tight. How dare he?! The two faced cheating weasel! Kartania spat, then turned on Edward. You knew about this? she demanded. Jadis she had expected, but not Sebastian. I had my suspicions. I could have just as easily looked around the corner and seen nothing though, he assured her. The Grand Meister met her at my door this morning. I watched them leave together. It seems were both being cheated on. Jadis has been with me as well. This isnt one of your illusions, mage? Kartania asked. You have that little faith in me, Kartania? Edward asked. She turned back to Sebastians door and stared at it, willing it to burst into flame. It didnt open. Wyrren didnt leave. Im going to bury him. Dont be too hard on him. Hes just a man, Edward said. Just a man, my ass, Kartania said. How long has this been going on? Id venture to say since the other night at the festival, Edward offered.
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Kartania shook her head. What to do? What would her father have her do? Mr. Lowar? Kartania said. I want my girls packing our bags. Were leaving. Shed not waste any more time here. I dont suppose youd like to contact your father first? Edward asked. I Kartania felt a little nervous at that. Her father Yes. I should, she said. She wasnt sure what his reaction would be. She was supposed to be strong enough to solve her own problems. And Sebastian had been the only man theyd agreed on. I dont think youll have to work too hard to convince him that leaving is the best course of action. Even he will understand this slight, Edward said. I suppose youll want to stay to have word with the council, Kartania said. Theyd promised her yesterday that her problems with Jadis were over. Uselesseveryone in this country was useless. Of course. Im sure Ill have to be the medium between them and your father. Do it, with my blessing. Shed have to stay as well, probably for a week or more to see things through. Unless She took a good, long look at Lowar. He never had let them down. He had risen to be one of her fathers best men for good reason. She could trust Lowar. Perhaps you could excuse my girls and I once my father sends his reply? I could, I suppose. Is that your wish then, Kartania? Edward asked. Yes. Yes it is, Kartania said. She beckoned for Edward to accompany her down the hall. She really wanted to break something. A vase, maybe. I want you to bury that man, Mr. Lowar. Whatever you can deviseIll bear witness to whatever you can imagine, in word, writing, you name it. Make him suffer for this. Edward smiled. Your servant, Lady Reise. You can always count on me.
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Once alone and returned to her room, Wyrren poured herself a bath. Sebastian had wrecked her routine; she ought to be at breakfast. <Ana, Im in my room. Breakfast here?> <Its about time. Ill get a tray again. Theres something I need to tell you, by the way,> Ana replied. Wyrren stepped into the bath, rubbed soap that smelled like flowers over her arms, raised a bare leg, rubbed that down as well, took guilty pleasure in the bruise she found on her inner thigh. Sebastian. Shed be a queen again soon. <Now, or should we wait?> she answered Ana, lazy and comfortable. <Well, you were gone for the night, so I went into the red book myself ?> Ana said. Wyrren stopped scrubbing her skin. <What?> <The formation of Attica as a nation proper, shortly after the battle at Port Yjarl. Verrus and Fervius were slave-soldiers, raised to commander positions late in the war on the losing side. They got their regiment out of an ambush alive by holding a bottleneck with a small squadron. Commemorated after their deaths as war heroes. You knew that our Fervius and Verrus are memories of dead men, imprinted on golem forms, right?> <It was mentioned,> Wyrren returned. <Positive. It gets better. Remember the name at the start of the diary? I asked Verrus if hed heard it before. Get this. Gideon Flynn is a folk tale. The cursed immortal who sucks blood and steals children from their beds late at night. Originally he was an evil bastard king who tried to kill himself, and Death wouldnt have him. Anyway, according to
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the legend, Gideon Flynn runs around in the shadows and curses good people with rotten luck, and no ones seen him in ages.> <Because Gideon Flynn survives now by stealing other mens identities?> Wyrren asked. <And Edward Lowar he must be the real Sebastian del Torlo.> There was a very easy way to check that. She rose from her bath and grabbed a towel, drying herself off as she walked to her bed, leaving puddles on the wood floor, found the red book from where shed hidden it and reclined on the comforter in her towel to read. She flipped back through the description of Sebastians reign. She found the date of her mothers funeral, and stopped brieflySebastian (Gideon?) wrote of meeting her, that he was impressed with her mind, how he hoped shed do great things in spite of her disability. And then Wyrren found the passages before Sebastians coronation and read from there. The narrative had changed, as had the handwriting. She was reading the Grand Meister prior, Sebastians father Gabriel del Torlo. Seventeen years ago Ive received word on Sebastians new lover. Apparently this time hes with a genuine prostitute, one with a client list on the riverside district and a reputation to match. Hes dressed her in silk and diamonds, and means to have her on his arm for the solstice parade. Every noblewoman in Valdenemus is furious. I could understand if he was in love. I would talk this through had the lady been sincere and Sebastian dedicated. But the girls head is spinning with dreams of money, and hes already thinking about a serving girl in the west wing. I didnt want to replace him at such a young age, but he is a menace, and I need to stop him before he does any more damage. Or, gods forbid, he learns how to use that strange magic sleeping within him. Ill have to take preparations so his change of personality is not noted.
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Two days later Ive set most of my affairs in order, cleaned out my office. Sebastian hasnt noticed anything, but his prostitute has some sixth sense. Shes become uneasy, and her eyes have become alarmed and furtive. The day after that Ive scouted out a new world not unlike our own, though its magic seems virtually nonexistent. Thats one less thing to worry about. Im going to rename him. Nassamituuq may hate me for it, but shes dead, and I always wanted to call him Claudio. The day after that Ive cast my memory spells, perhaps more vigorously than usual, put mental blocks in place to keep him from casting. Ive left Claudios new family a good sum of money. Hell do better there. Ive taken his form and made my corpse, and Ill send the girl home in the morning. So much for this generation. As one last security measure, Ive erased the location of Claudios new world from my mind. No doubts. No looking back this time. Long live the king. On the next page, in a new handwriting My name is Sebastian del Torlo, and this is the account of my life. Wyrren sat and thought about that for a long time. The memories of Sebastians touch no longer felt quite the same. She dressed, and when Ana came in she ate with a determined focus. Her lover was an old monster. What did she really know about Sebastian, anyway? And what if Edward had good reason to threaten him? This was still the Sebastian del Torlo who had cared for her as a disfigured mordache girl. The man who had taken her in when she
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needed shelter. The man who had hunted down an assassin team intent on killing her. The man who had written how much he wanted a wife of his own choosing this time. Who had meant his kisses, even if being his wife meant if she married Sebastian, that was what he was going to do to their son, wasnt it? The thought made her sick. When shed heard Lowar talking to SebastianGabriel? Gideon? what exactly had he said? End of the Torlo line? But what if there was no succession? What if she was only facing one king, succeeding himself as his son or grandson or nephew every generation for however long the Torlo line had continued on. Lowar wasnt trying to kill Sebastian at all. He was trying to root Sebastian out of his position. He was trying to break the pattern, save another son from being replaced. Or maybe he just wanted Sebastian off the Hael Malstrom throne. I need to know who Edward Lowar is, Ana, Wyrren said. I thought wed agreed that Edward was the real Sebastian? Ana asked. Wyrren shook her head. The real Sebastians memory was erased, then abandoned on another world. Lowar is someone else. Ana thought about that. So who is Sebastian? Either hes Gabriel del Torlo making him my fathers age, Wyrren said. Or one of Gabriels ancestors. Or we can surmise that hes Gideon Flynn. The length of the diary and the way he wrote of things so long past seemed strong evidence, though it was a concept Wyrren had trouble taking in. She could imagine a man of eighty, but a man of several thousand years? Gideon Flynns supposed to be ancient, right? Ana asked. If your sources can be trusted, Wyrren said. And by the length of that diary, yes. And Edward Lowar beat an ancient immortal at a game of chess? Ana asked. Made it look sortof easy? Wyrren suddenly realized why shed never managed to beat
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Sebastian. The damned cheat, hes got so much experience on me, Wyrren said, newly outraged. Wyrren! Focus! Ana snapped her fingers in front of Wyrrens face. Right. Wyrren focused. I dont know, Ana. Lowar knows about Gideon, obviously. I know there were once dragons in the world. Ancient monsters. He can match wits with an immortal mage and come out of it unscathed. An old nemesis, maybe. Did the legends say anything about a counterpart to Gideon Flynn? Some enemy who had the same fate? Ana shook her head. Nothing like that. It was just Gideon Flynn. No friend, brother, or enemy included. Wyrren nodded, and said, Then theres only one thing to do, she said, closed the diary, and then opened it to its first page. We start from the beginning.
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Chapter 7
In the beginning, Gideon Flynn was a child. The youngest grandson of Evander Flynn, the biskmatar. Gideon had a mother and a father, both sets of grandparents, nine brothers and sisters, two half-tanomanmer cousins in the jungles where his mother had been raised. Gideon wrote of school, of family, of outings and fights and first-everythings. He was an uncle at eleven, then again at twelve. He exulted the first time hed beaten his father at chess with enthusiastically scribbled illustrations. His mother had taught him vivomancy. His father tried to make a warrior out of the child, but Gideon was both clever and scrawny, and his father soon gave up. But it was his grandfather that taught him his first biskmatry spell. Just one, his grandfather said. The rest were far too terrible. The triumph with which little Gideon wrote of finding his grandfathers secret stash and learning contraband spells made Wyrren suspect that the old man had goaded him in that direction. Evander Flynn went mad a few years laterhe killed a great many people, including his wife, then took his own life. Teenage Gideon admitted in the diary that hed stolen his grandfathers books; his father would have burned them, and grandfather would have wanted him to have them. He would carry on his legacy. Alastair Flynn, Gideons father, made himself a king by conquest.
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He was a reavera bloodthirsty, supernaturally strong brute of a man addicted to defeating his enemies. The Flynns became royalty. When Gideons mother told her children that their father had died in battle, Gideon didnt believe it. He swore in writing that it had been a set-up. He just didnt know who was to blame. He lost his brothers and sisters, nieces and nephews over the years. Accidents, they said. Bad luck. Disease, disappearances, spells gone wrong. Someone was trying to destroy his family, but his mother, the Queen, would never kill someone who might have been innocent. There was no proof. Gideon grew up. He fell in love with a scholars daughter named Grace, drew pictures of her as best he could in his diary, made calligraphy out of her name. He married her. Another of his brothers died. His family continued to shrink. The queen searched for her sons killer, but when she found nothing, she wept and would not act. Then Wyrren came across a description of a banquet. Gideons writing had become strangely fluid, flowery, even. Lines of poetry with the descriptions, bordering on the melodramatic, went on and on with great flourish and ended abruptly: Grace and his mother had been poisoned. He was alone. Things would be right, now. He would make them right. He killed every suspect, and every suspected accomplice. He described what he did to them in unnecessary, gory detail. He relished his plans for the next traitor. Or would-be traitor. He would see them suffer, as he had suffered, and then there would be justice for all. Wyrren couldnt read it all in one sitting. She drank her tea and cried, sure that it would get worse before it got better. She skipped what she could, trying to get past Gideons madness, until at last she reached a passage that marked itself as the very last thing he would ever write. Enemy troops marched down the streets, and he had so few men to defend his fortress now. This was the end of the Flynns. But hed be damned if hed give them the satisfaction of taking off his head
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themselves. Hed jump from the towerone last glorious moment, one more man dead. Maybe hed find Grace on the other side. Death came in the visage of a drowned woman, her skin a bloated, clay shell, her clothes dripping, her fingers brown with rot, her eyes empty sockets, her lips drawn back around her teeth. She would not use her scythe. She would not take Gideons hand. He had the blood of a people on his head. How had he not felt it? Death denied him. His body healed. He fled. <Are we still going to the festival tonight?> Edward asked. Gideons diary jumped in Wyrrens hands. Her tea sat cold and unnoticed. The sunlight out her window was fading, and she realized that shed missed another math class. Wyrren returned. <Last night last night was bad.> And shed gotten no hints at all from Edward all this time. Was dancing with the man really helping her? How did he fit into Gideons story? Was she too obviously attached to Sebastian for him to try to use? Had her loyalty to Sebastian destroyed her cause? Wyrren didnt even know where to look anymore. <It was, wasnt it?> Edward asked. He remembered. <What are you up to?> Wyrren asked. <The festivals getting boring. Ill come get you; well play chess half the night. Ill say nice things about you, youll say terrible things about me, and well both enjoy ourselves thoroughly.> <Youre terrible.> <See, just like that. Ill be over in a few minutes.> <Im not dressed> Wyrren locked the diary in her box of sand. <Even better.> Wyrren sputtered mentally. He laughed at her, and she ran to make
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herself decent. Ana wasnt here now. Wyrren had to dress herself. She had no idea how to properly paint her face; Anas army of cosmetic stood like enemy troops on the vanity desk. Edward arrived too soon; Wyrren came with her half-mask clutched to her chin. What have we said about you wearing masks? Edward said, and pried it away. Let go. Wyrren fought him for a moment, then gave in. I dont have my makeup. Its different, isnt it? Edward agreed, and offered his arm. My room? He poured her champagne when theyd arrived, and set up the board for chess. On their second game, Wyrren assembled the pieces white for Edward, black for her, but instead of the correct formation, shed given Lowar only his back row, and set five lines of black pawns against him. Edward raised an eyebrow. The peasants are revolting, Wyrren told him matter-of-factly. Edward laughed so hard that he nearly fell over, then made her play him like that. By their third drink, he had brought out a four-person chessboard and they each took two armies, and again she fell asleep, still dressed, beside him. But she learned absolutely nothing useful. The next morning, Edward rose before she did and squeezed her hand. Wyrren? he asked. Theres something I need to talk to you about. When youre awake? Wyrren opened her eyes. The sun hadnt yet risen. Now? she asked, stretching. What is it? Its about the Grand Meister, Edward said. All fuzzy thoughts of sleep fled as if Edward had poured cold water on her. Im awake, Wyrren said, and sat up. What is it, Edward? Part of my job is looking into his past, making sure Kartania is safe. Ive noticed that youre fond of him, too, and well, Ive found something. If it affects you, then I think you should hear this, too.
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If Sebastian wasnt the man you thought he was if hes been deceiving you you would want to know, right? Edward asked. If Kartania isnt the next queen, you seem to be the alternative. I dont want to rescue Kartania and leave you behind. Just tell me what youve found, Wyrren said. Edward hesitated. Look. Give me a day to make sure that Im not slandering the man too soon. Know that Ive found something, and keep an open mind, if I need to warn you about something crazy? Of course, Wyrren said. Ill always listen. But you need to bring me proof, Edward. Can you at least give me a hint? It has to do with his succession, Edward admitted. Enough of that, though. Ill bring you proof tomorrow or you can laugh at me for being a conspiracy theorist. When Wyrren returned to her room and the diary, she locked the door and pulled the book from her chest, hurrying to read the rest of the book. It was the fifth day of the blinkerbug festival. Kartanias engagement would be announced on the evening of the seventh or Kartania would have to leave. Whatever Edward was up to, she didnt have much longer to uncover it if he meant to make his move soon. The next section of the diary meandered. Gideon escaped his enemies. He went to the other end of the world to start over. He moved from town to town, took stupid jobs, pretended to work and completed his tasks with magic. He avoided the girls he caught looking at him, raged in his diary over the injustice of what Death had done to him. This went on for nearly a decades worth of entries, with no sign of Edward, or anyone who might have been Edward. Wyrren wanted to smack Gideon and tell him to get to the good parts. Finally, she found an entry where Gideon had made a breakthrough. He had been cursed for being evil. It then fell that he must live a life of charity and good works, and once his good works out balanced his bad, Death would rescind its curse and hed be able to go home. He went to the most corrupt city he could findthe metropolitan
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center of an empire. Wyrren fetched several history books from the palace library, but couldnt find its name in its earliest entriesthose people must have come and gone, their records forgotten. Gideon stole money from the rulers and city vaults with his magic, and with the proceeds he opened a house for the sick, and healed everyone who came in. He fed the hungry and gave shelter to those without homes, and he made checklists of every good thing that hed done in every entry. Eventually he noticed that the same people would keep coming to him. Drunkards with hangovers. Gang thugs who were starting to grow bolder, knowing that they could always be healed later. The same woman would arrive twice a week with bruises that made Gideons blood boil, and he began to write terrible things in his diary, how the people he helped werent even gratefulthey just took advantage of him. How was he going to earn back his mortality if this was all he got? For every decent person he healed, hed treat two drunkards and a thug as well. Gang-related fatalities rose even higher. And then one night he lost his temper. The same woman with the same bruises, the same excuses that Gideon wouldnt believe. He followed her home, and he murdered her husband that night. Then he returned to his shelter, furious with himself, debating whether or not Death could blame him for that, justifying everything even as he condemned himself. Ten months later, the woman returned. The same bruises. The same excuses. Shed gotten another husband with the exact same problems as the first. Not long after that, one of the children Gideon saw passing by every day was found dead, shot by one of the gangs, and probably someone Gideon had healed. He was doing this all wrong. He found the headquarters of the first gang and butchered them all. He did the same with the second and third, until the slums ran red.
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He wiped his hands and watched his own wounds heal on their own, and returned to his healing house, and resumed his work. For a few days, there was peace and mourning. Then came violence. New men who wanted to control the streets came out, and they fought to establish new territories. Things became even worse than when Gideon had arrived. Gideons new friends were trying to get to know him. There were people he was starting to care about despite himself. People who hed see die someday, and he was terrified of love for fear of the grief it would bring. He called this mess a good experiment, and fled his mistakes. He moved to another city to try again. It happened over and over and over. He tried for years, always with the same results. He could not seem to escape himself. He made the same mistakes every time. Eventually Gideon gave up and married again, this time to a pretty farm girl in a little town in the middle of nowhere. He settled down as a town scribe and had a son, and decided he could stay there and be happy for a while. He was tired. He deserved a break. He deserved to be happy. His son grew upa cheerful boy with a penchant for mischief and a love of heroic epics. He became a soldier in the local militia against Gideons wishes, drunk on tales of glory. Then a war came with a neighboring country, and Gideon received a messenger with word of his boys death. His wife followed their son seventeen years later. Gideon returned to his home continent. His former capital had changed. His enemies children ruled there now. He was a hated story distorted beyond recognition of real events. He began delving into magic. Perhaps Death could be cheated. He knew biskmatry and vivomancy, illusions, and elemental magics. Now he looked into things he hadnt researched before. He tried necromancy, and found he couldnt even cast the simplest spell. He had no connection to Death. He looked into conjuration and charms, but what really began
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to fascinate him was manastrymental magic, the delving into the mind, the rearranging of memory, creating new memories, new desires. Hed always wanted to change the people he was trying to help, to shift what they wanted, to set their sights on better things. After a hundred years of immortality, this could be the answer. Festival lights shone outside her window. Wyrren had read for the entire day and had missed the party entirely. Edward was checking on Sebastian, Wyrren expected. He hadnt called her tonight. She slept in her own bed, and wondered what she was going to do if she couldnt find what Lowar really wanted tomorrow. Skip through the book randomly and make wild guesses, like Ana did? She woke to sunlight on her ceiling. The sixth day of the festival. Wyrren grabbed the diary. She had to continue. Manastry. The answer was manastry. Forget the other people. Death took them. Death took the gangsters and the addicts and the beaten and the beaters alike. But Death wouldnt take him. The answer was manastry, but it was Gideon who needed to change, not those around him. He needed to be someone else. He needed to escape himself: that would change everything. He learned to meditate. He studied and he practiced. He founded a group of mages dedicated to magic, and he learned from some of the most brilliant minds in the area. In the meantime he prepared. He was going to be a good person, to rid himself of his faults and his weaknesses, to get away from the things he did over and over again, no matter how hard he tried to break away. He was his own worst enemy. And since he could not manage to reform himself, he was going to force the issue. At one hundred and forty years of age, he found a brook in a wood, sat quiet and still, let himself relax. He listened to the sound of water, the birds in the trees, the wind in the leaves. And he separated the man
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he wanted to be from the man he was. The pain was sharp and brutal, like cleaving his physical brain in two. He fell unconscious. When he opened his eyes again, he found himself staring at an exact double who laid naked on the ground. His double woke, and for a moment they both stared. Then the copy got to his feet and ran. Later Gideon wrote that hed found his double impersonating him. His name, his own traits, his own talents, but he was also the very worst of his own person, the things about himself that he had come to abhor. He had let a manifestation of his own darkness loose in the world. His own personal shadow. Wyrren put the diary down, closed its cover with a calm that she did not feel. Pieces clicked together in her mind. Ana brought Wyrren lunch. Wyrren ate, silent. She felt like she had a fire inside her, a raging inferno, and couldnt focus on Anas news and small talk. She didnt remember a word of it after her sister had left. <Edward?> Wyrren called. <Do you have your proof yet?> <Its not air-tight yet,> Edward admitted. <But its leading. Wyrren, I think you need to get out of here. Youre in danger.> <Youll have to do better than that.> <Ill come to your room and explain,> Edward offered. Wyrren accepted. She cleared her sitting area, and invited him in when he arrived. Edward came with his arms full of books and files. Wyrren spotted the original red diary among them. Tell me everything, Wyrren said. Edward put down a print of a portrait of the child-prince Sebastian del Torlo. Most didnt think much of the change in his personality when he took the throne, Edward said. Those closest to him made excuses. Gabriel del Torlos murder made some statements before they disbandedyou know each Grand Meister picks his own murder. It made sense. People change when they go through hardships. It was
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mentioned to me a time ago, and I let it pass without investigating. Then Edward began setting down papers. Laws that Gabriel had began that Sebastian had finished, almost unhindered. From irreverent to solemn, from irresponsible to duty-bound, and evidence of each. Edward presented Wyrren with letters, with written testimonies from the prior murder, who had urged an investigation be launched years ago. He spent hours showing her everything, building his case carefully, methodically. Then Edward brought out the red diary. I stole this from his office last night, Edward said. I wanted to be sure. Let me show you something, Lady Jadis. And he opened the book backward, flipped back a ways, and began reading Gabriels abandonment and renaming of his sonthe true Sebastian del Torlo renamed Claudio, his memory erased, abandoned on another world. Edward went back farther, and read a similar passage. This time it was Gabriel who was removedrelocated to the other end of the world, his memory erased, his place taken. He read passages that Wyrren knew to be taken out of context about the importance of being king, justification arguments with himself about how this is best for the people. You only have an evening, Edward said when hed finished, and pushed the diary at Wyrren. Read until youre convinced. Keep everything, in fact. Wyrren, Kartanias decided against having Sebastian. Please. Dont stay here, either. Its not safe. Hes going to use you and discard you, like the rest of these women. Hes going to twist your memories around until you think how he wants you to. Wyrren couldnt move her face. Edward expected her to be shocked and dismayed but without a face that could convey emotion, he would have to take her feelings on faith. Wyrren flipped through the pages, read sections here and there. You think Sebastian will use me to replace Kartania? she asked.
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I know youve been having an affair, Edward said. Ive known since you dueled Kartania. If I were to marry Sebastian Hed pretend to be Sebastian. Which he isnt. Youll find a monster if you go back in that diary far enough. He would give you a son, then pretend to widow you when the child is old enough to be useful. Edward paused, let Wyrren take all this in. I can give you the night to think this over, but Wyrren, when I leave Doppel after the festival, you must come with us. Kartanias agreed to take both you and your girls, in light of all this. I this is difficult to believe, Wyrren said slowly. You must understand Take the book, Edward said. By all means. But dont be caught with it. Keep it locked up. Read as much as you can. I Im sorry, Wyrren. Im very fond of you. I admit it. I dont want to see this be your fate, too. Please. He looked in Wyrrens eyes, his brown eyes sincere. Desperate, even. Wyrren kissed his forehead. I like facts, Edward. I need to crossreference the dates, the entries. I need to check the handwriting, and make certain there are no spells on the volume. I dont like to sound as if I dont trust you, but I stole it from his desk myself, Edward said. Examine it at your leisure. Test it as much as you want. Its all valid. Her skin still tingled when he touched Wyrren. Wyrren knew why now. He may have even meant what he said when he claimed to be fond of her. After Edward left, Wyrren called to Ana and Saffira. She paced along the edge of her carpet by the time her girls arrived, and told them to sit. I know who Edward Lowar is, Wyrren said, and I know what hes doing. Youre sure? Ana said.
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Wyrren nodded, and she continued pacing. Sebastian del Torlo is the immortal Gideon Flynn, she said, inheriting his own position generation after generation, displacing his sons, trying to make up his past wrongs as king by being a benevolent ruler. When Edward threatened him in the catacombs, he wasnt going to kill Sebastian. He was going to destroy his current facade. End the Torlo line. There is no Torlo line. Its always been him. What about Edward? Ana asked. Im getting to that, Wyrren said. A little over a hundred years into his immortality, Gideon Flynn tried to purge himself of evil with mental magic. But the split didnt work. He expelled traits that he thought he didnt want but it wasnt his evil side. He rid himself of his sense of humor. His carelessness. His love of pleasure. His fierce passion. Sebastian kept his discipline, his responsibility, his sense of duty. Gideon Flynn is immortal. He couldnt kill half of his own soul. So when he expelled it, it healed as its own entity. Edward Lowar is the half of Gideon Flynn that Sebastian is missingtheyre both half of a whole person. Thats why they both love chess, why theyre both vivomancers and biskmatars and manasters and mages and politicians. Why theyre both attracted to me. Why the closer I get to Sebastian, the more I want Edward too. Sebastian hes determined to do the same thing over and over, Wyrren said. He still believes that if he works harder, if he does better, Death will come take him away. Hes trying to do everything right so that he can die. And in the meantime he has become addicted to his routine, and has nothing to pull him out. He despises the only person who understands him. But hes destroying his sons lives, Ana said. And hes holding himself back from the people around him, Wyrren said. And hes trying not to get attached, not to really care about anything. Hes done this pattern so long he no longer sees its flaws, I think. He hasnt lived in centuries. Millenia, maybe.
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As for Edward, hes figured out that Sebastian is in love with me. He must have suspected since I mouthed off to Kartania in the library. Sebastian tries to stop himself, but hes only human. Edwards used this week to see Kartania fully humiliated. Sebastian has treated her terribly I think Edwards right. Five thousand years of this its a wonder Sebastians even partly sane, still. Kartania is going to the council, where shes going to denounce Sebastians behavior. When Sebastian refuses to cooperate with their plans and insists on marrying me, hes going to set Hael Malstrom in a very bad diplomatic position. So Edwards trying to start a war? Ana asked. No. Edward came to me with Sebastians diarystolen from his deskand showed me his secrets in the worst light he could. Im supposed to be crying my eyes out now because the diary is genuine. All my hopes and dreams are supposed to be crushed. Tomorrow night Im to tell Edward that he was right all along and refuse Sebastian as well. Edward knows me well enough to know that I wouldnt marry a monster for a position. What was going to happen is that Sebastian places himself in a bad situation with Doppel and the council, while the woman hed picked instead also retreats from him. Hell ruin his relationship with Renideo, not to mention being an enemy to the king de Marla for sheltering me in the first place. Worsening relations with Doppel is bad enough, but both Doppel and all of Marla is unacceptable. Edward nudges Sebastians wild childhood forward, convinces the council that Sebastian never really changed and can no longer rule after hes ruined everything, then agrees to patch everything up between Doppel and Hael Malstrom. Hell be an agent of peace. The price I will bet anything the price will be that Sebastian steps down from his office. Exile. Which puts Sebastian out of the job that was supposed to save him, from the people hes addicted to ruling, and the woman he loves despises him, Ana said. Well done, Edward. Sebastian will probably
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break down completely. She cocked her head. What then? Then then Edward goes to Sebastian, after his wills been completely broken. Probably somewhere secluded, Wyrren said. Hes going to rape himtake Sebastians unwilling half of a soul and force it to join with his own, and remake Gideon Flynn. But the Gideon Flynn that comes out of such a union they were split in agreement, Ana. Theyre equals. If Edward dominates over Sebastian like that, half broken? It wont be any Gideon Flynn youd ever want to meet, Wyrren said. Edward is desperate to be whole again, I think. Expelled five thousand years ago, and still trying to come home. Hell take Sebastians half in any condition. Checkmate. One king on the board. And Wyrren had seen how Edward ended that game the week before. But thats not whats going to happen, Ana said. Kartania may still turn against SebastianEdwards close to her enough to see that. But you He made mistakes, Wyrren said. Three, in fact. OneId found Gideons diary before hed presented it to me. I dont think theyre reading my mind, for some reason. Id never have gotten so far if they were. Two, I was in the catacombs when Edward threatened Sebastian. Ive never considered Edward to be a caring, neutral figure in this game. And the third? Ana prompted. The third is that as far as anyone knows, I met Sebastian three months ago when I arrived, Wyrren said. But my affection for the man called Sebastian goes far beyond that. He may be a monster or a bastard but he still saved me as a little girl. I am convinced more firmly than Edward has any idea that Sebastian is redeemable, despite all hes done, Wyrren said. She looked at the window, at the darkening sky. The sixth festival night will start soon. Ive waited more than long enough. This needs to stop tonight. Wyrren turned and surveyed her two girls, knowing full well what she would need to do. Ana, youre going to minimize Kartanias rage at
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Sebastian, if you can. Throw the whole of the blame on me. Hint at oh, I dont know. Love potions or something like that. Wyrren didnt even know if love potions really existed, even here in Hael Malstrom. Youre going to undermine Edward Lowar. He wont expect you to work against my interests. Ana frowned, but nodded. Kartania would love to blame you, she admitted. Theres bare-handed fighting in a bar called The Shambling Man in the city. I know Kartanias been visiting it. Probably working out her aggression. Wyrren nodded. She could hope that Kartania wouldnt murder her later. Saffira, what Im about to do Im putting myself in danger, but I dont think a bodyguard will help me. If Sebastian reacts badly I need you to get far away. If my memorys erased, you will need to find me and tell me everything. Here. Wyrren took the diary she had desolidified, opened the back page, and wrote a quick note to herself, then handed it to Saffira. Here is your proof. Im a stubborn fool sometimes. Ill trust your judgment as to the how and when. Saffira took the diary and nodded. As you wish, my lady, she said. I will not be captured. Wait, Ana said, as Wyrren got to her feet. Wyrren had the bag that Edward had given her on her arm, and the stolen diary inside. What are you doing, Wyrren? Wyrren clasped her half mask to her face: her painted smile. She opened the door. Im going to save Gideon Flynn.
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Chapter 8
Wyrren called to Sebastian, and he answered, <Im in my office. I need to speak to you as well, Wyrren.> The sun was setting outside. Wyrren hurried on her way to the Grand Meisters office. Sebastian offered her a tight, small smile when she opened the door. Wyrren. Come in. Wyrren sat across from Sebastian. How to begin? Perhaps I should start? Sebastian asked. He reached into his desk, and pulled out the beautiful wooden box from his desk drawer, the one inlaid with mother of pearl. Wyrren knew that box. Shed found it when shed desolidified his desk in pieces. Id prepared this for you weeks ago. Sebastian laid both hands on top. This belonged to my mother, Wyrren. And my grandmother before her. I think they should be yours now. He opened the case slowly. The crowns sapphires and emeralds sparkled at her from their gold settings. They were still stunningly beautiful. These are the queens gems, Wyrren said. Her voice was soft. I want you to be the next queen of Hael Malstrom. He extended his hand. Be my wife, Wyrren? Ill accept whatever comes of refusing Kartania. It wont be easy but nothing worth doing is, after all. Wyrren looked from him to his hand, then to the jewels before her. Sebastian Wyrren began, scrambling for the right words. I love
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you, Sebastian. Ive loved you for some time now. She reached behind her head and took off her mask, folding the straps together. This is yours now. She put the mask in his outstretched hand. I dont want it anymore. Sebastian looked at the mask for a time, then back at her. Im glad. He set the mask aside. He was waiting for her answer. She could say yes. She could agree. She could be his wife, and put on his crown, damn what Edward Lowar had planned. Theyd take whatever punishment the council handed them in retribution. Shed gained and lost the Marlan crown in a days time. She could rule another country at Sebastians side, a land of magic and sunlight and bountiful food. She could sleep beside the man she loved every night. And she could wait for her chance to confront him with his secret. Until he read her mind, and she forgot everything. This is also yours, Wyrren said, reached into the bag, and pulled out the diary Edward had stolen from Sebastian the night before. She closed the jewelry box and set the red leather book on top. Sebastian looked at the diary for a long moment. How did you come upon my diary, Wyrren? he asked. Edward Lowar stole it from your office last night, Wyrren said. He was trying to turn me against you. Of course he would be. He must have told you a fantastic story as well, Sebastian said. Something like that, Wyrren agreed. It didnt work. I see, Sebastian said. His lips were pressed thin, his forehead wrinkled. Edward is a liar, Wyrren continued. I knew that. He might have shocked me if I hadnt already seen your fight in the catacombs. Or if I hadnt found your diary first, days before he made his move. Wyrren took a deep breath. It was too late to go back now. I knew your identity before Edward came to me.
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My identity? Sebastian questioned. Youre half of Gideon Flynn. Sebastians eyes looked at the ground as if searching for an answer. The better half of Gideon Flynn, he corrected her. Sometimes you are too stubborn for your own good, Wyrren. Wyrren felt like she had stepped on rotten ice. Where to go from here? I want you to trust me, she said. I know whats going on now, Sebastian. You wanted to make me trust you by stealing my diary and learning my darkest secrets. Come now, Wyrren how does that sound to you? Sebastian asked. Not a particularly good start, Wyrren admitted. I had to look, given the circumstances. I was scared for you. You are falling apart, arent you? Would it really be so bad to accept help, Sebastian? You cant help me, Wyrren. You dont have the time to help me, Sebastian said. Im a necromancer, Wyrren said. I have a strong connection to Death. Let me try. What do you have to lose? Time? No but you have time to lose. You have a life to lose, a life to live that will be wasted trying to help me, Sebastian said. Its my life. Ill spend it on you if I choose to, Wyrren said. You were asking me to spend it with you anyway. The only difference is you dont get to lie to me anymore. I have to lie to everyone, Wyrren. Its the only way I can try to rid myself of this curse, Sebastian said. Did Death tell you this? Wyrren asked. No. Death refuses to see me. I am barred from it in every way, Sebastian admitted. It wouldnt just leave me here, with no way to undo what happened, though. There has to be a way. This has to be the way. How long are you going to try one idea before you decide this isnt the right answer?
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I was sure this time, though! There couldnt be anything else, Wyrren. I had tried anything I could think of before. I had all the time in the world to ponder, to formulate the plan. No, she said. Only half of you tried everything. You left the other half behind. If Death didnt want Edward, Death could have cut him out himself. What if you need him? Need him?! Sebastian shouted indignantly. I dont need that cast off! That trash! Hes the problem to begin with! Hes the parts of me that put me in this situation! This is his fault! He caused the mistakes! I have to correct them. He doesnt have the sense, the drive, or the will to correct his own mistakes. Hell be left behind once Ive finished. Left to rot! Sebastian declared. He was beginning to become visibly unhinged. Sebastian Wyrren got to her feet. No, Wyrren! I am tired. Tired of living and feeling nothing, tired of being forced to make these kinds of choices. Ive worked and Ive slaved, and for what? To see it all ruined over and over again by that bastard! Sebastian slammed his fist down on his desk, which split down the center. The queens crown and the diary slid into the crack, along with the rest of his paperwork. He might not be able to die, but he can suffer like any man. Wyrren stepped back. Her legs hit the chair shed been sitting in, and she looked at Sebastian in fear and pity. When she spoke, she forced herself to keep her tone gentle. Let me help you. Sebastian ran his hand up his face and through his hair. Do you think this all wrong, Wyrren? he asked. Do you think Ive been doing this wrong, trying to break this curse in the wrong way? Yes, Wyrren said. I do. Sebastian exhaled and shut his eyes. Then I renounce it. He threw his coat from his back, took off his pendant and his rings, everything that represented his status. It all fell to the floor. I am not beholden to these people or this council any longer. Ill try things your
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way. He started for the door. Wyrren stepped in his way. Where are you going, Sebastian? To expose that malformation for what he is, and to present him his reward for years of antagonizing me. Wyrren grabbed his arm. Sebastian, no! Dont go out there. Not like that. Wyrren, call your girls and contact Kearn. Im giving you my authority to see the city evacuated, Sebastian said, pulling away. This will be my last order as Grand Meister. Do not fight Lowar! Wyrren grabbed for him again. Sebastian! Gideon! Sebastian wrenched his arm away from her. Wyrren, Im sorry, he said, and shoved her. She fell onto wild grass in the dark. The portal shed fallen through snapped shut. Blinkerbugs flew all around. She saw trees, the night sky, dead grass where shed fallen. No buildings. No man-made lights. She stood and called, Sebastian? Gideon! She sent him a mental message, but he did not respond. There was the rise of a hill nearby. She started for it, climbed up the grassy slopes in her palace slippers and looked down once shed gotten to the top. The city Valdenemus was ablaze with light and no bigger than a coin on the horizon. No, Wyrren whispered. Evacuate the city, Sebastian had ordered. Remember what happened last time we fought near a city? Edward had said. Two immortal biskmatars, about to come face to face. And shed just taken away the reason Sebastian had not confronted Edward: the sake of preserving his facade. She clamped her teeth down and stared at the city until her jaw hurt. <Kearn,> she thought, <Sebastian asked me to relay his last order as Grand Meister. We need to evacuate Valdenemus.> She was not a
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good runner, and if that hill was any indication she would only hurt herself in those shoes. She sat down on dead grass and recreated a pair more suited to athletics. <His last order as Grand Meister? Im not sure I understand, Lady Jadis,> Kearn returned. <He threw off his pendant and rings,> Wyrren replied. She got to her feet and ran down the hill, toward the distant city. Even then, she was sure shed never reach it in time. It would take hours. Could Edward and Sebastian fight for hours? <Hes quitting. He wants you and the murder to evacuate the city, and you must do it quickly. Start wherever Edward Lowar is.> She felt a slight wind against her face, barging past clouds of blinkerbugs as she ran. <Edward Lowar? Why? Hes in the council chambers, with the council. They called an emergency meeting an hour ago,> Kearn replied. <Sebastian just called you. What exactly did he say?> <He said that you had his full authority,> Kearn said. <And then he didnt reply to any of my questions. Evacuation, though? The city is swamped with tourists!> Kearn projected the mental equivalent of taking a long, deep breath. <The city is yours, Lady Jadis.> Wyrrens lungs felt hot and tight, even as she started climbing the next hill. What should he tell the people? Something to alarm them without panicking them, something to discourage bravado. She couldnt keep running at this pace, not for long. <Tell them that some hazardous spell has been set off near Palacia del Torlo, and they should move to ensure their safety. All parties are cancelled. Can you make that sound more official, Kearn?> Kearn answered. There was a brief pause before his mental voice returned. <City-wide announcements have been made. Im
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sending the golems and Corvin into the council building. The triplets will be with me in the government district, and the law enforcement has been called to see the rest of the city to safety. Is there anything else, Lady Jadis?> <Two last things,> Wyrren said, breathing hard. She reached the top of the next hill and stopped to rest, gasping for air. <Do not try to evacuate Edward or Sebastian. Stay as far away from them both as possible. <Sebastian sent me through a portal outside the city. Northeast, I think. Is there any way you can transport me back to Valdenemus without sacrificing the integrity of your evacuation?> Shed run back to the city until her legs wouldnt carry her any farther if there was no other way, but maybe Kearn would have an alternative. Kearn returned. <Do it,> Wyrren said, let herself stop at the second hills summit and gasped for air. <Ill signal.> <Keep an eye upwards,> Kearn said. The skies above Wyrren were clear, save for the blinkerbugs dancing about. Wyrren sat and turned dirt to sand, then sand to a Marlan flare, which she sent shrieking into the sky. A minute later she shot another. The flare crackled like a firework and the transfer made her head spin. Though it was a clear night, Wyrren swore that she heard thunder. One light in the sky to began to grow brighter than the restgolden and glowing, from the size of a blinkerbug light to that of an eagle, then to a monster. The massive bird flew toward her, circled, and landed nearby; the ground shook and little stones jumped at the impact. Sparks of electricity flew from its wings. Wyrren almost had her breath back the roc took it away again. It must have been as tall as a building. Wyrren ran to it, and she climbed on its back when it knelt down to her. Wyrren got a good grip around its neck. Remind me, which one are you? Wyrren asked. She could never keep the triplets straight.
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<Undil, Lady Jadis. Its nice to see you again. To the city center then?> he asked. <Outside the council building,> Wyrren said, and made sure she had a good grip. <And fast.> <Your wish is my pleasure, Lady Jadis,> Undil returned. With one powerful motion of his wings they were propelled into the air, sparks flying beneath. Undil turned in the air and shot for the council building like an arrow. The sky roared behind them. Wyrren hung on for dear life, eyes squinted against the wind. Her hair stood up on end, only countered by the speed at which they flew. She saw wilderness beneath them, then farmland and farmhouses, brief flashes of small rural parties. She saw the city walls, the city gates, the city roofs. Ahead of them Wyrren saw the council building. Then part of the roof collapsed, black and violet eating away at its center. People in fine dress ran from the government district, but seemed to have no consensus on where to go. There was a phoenix in the air above the city, a big man in frozen armor. Wyrren began to hear a voice in her head, calmly announcing an emergency evacuation. The council building jumped again. Wyrren swallowed hard. <After we land, Im going to run inside. See the rest to safety, Undil.> <Of course. Lady Jadis, are you certain you should be running in there alone?> Undil asked, beginning his descent. <Ironically, I dont think anyone can help me,> Wyrren returned, and buried her face in Undils feathers. She felt his body move with the impact of landing, then slid from Undils back. Thank you, she said, looking up at the building. Windows were broken. Walls were cracked. Statues had been toppled. An entire portion of the structure had been torn away it seemed, and resettled almost in its old position. She opened the double doors with both hands and sprinted inside. No magical lights glowed in the halls anymore. Chunks of the building seemed to be missing, eaten away in meandering swaths. The
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artwork that still stood hung at angles if it hung at all, and as Wyrren ran something shook the building, throwing her against the wall. She struggled to her feet and continued on to a T-intersection, beyond which she found a set of stars. Past the art, past toppled seats, marble floors covered with spilled paper and ink, past a small fire that had started at the end of a hall and the smoke that seemed to follow her through the building until she found the door to the balcony. It rattled violently on its hinges, and Wyrren could hear the sound of rushing air behind it. She caught the handle and threw it open. The wind caught her first, a roaring hurricane that threw her flat against the nearest wall. The door shed opened wrenched at its hinges, slamming back and forth with the wood splintering with every swing. Wyrren had just enough foresight to throw herself to the floor and cover her head before the door let loose and slammed above her. Then the hurricane threw the door to the other side of the great chamber, one more crash in the cacophony. Wyrren couldnt be sure, but she thought she heard laughter. Sebastian! she shouted, as loud as she could. She had trouble making out her own voice, and received no reply. The high ceiling of the council chamber had been torn away; Wyrren could see the night sky through the whirl of the debris. Tongues of fire looped around the chamber, and several chairs that remained bolted to the balcony burned. Most of the rooms light emanated from the center, a swirl of white that Wyrren couldnt look at directly. That would be where Sebastian and Edward would be, the chamber center below the balcony. That was where she needed to go. The wind pressed her against the wall she crouched beside, and her eyes followed the floor and the balcony rail, looking for some way to get there. Part of the balcony had collapsed much further on, forming a makeshift ramp. Almost all the seating had been pried up, but the bolts and metal supports held still. Things she could hold onto. Wyrren crept to the edge of her wall. The six feet from her shelter
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and the nearest viable handhold felt like an impenetrable chasm, and her eyes raised to the wall and the door and numerous chairs embedded deep within wood and plaster. When the wind fluctuated, she dove and grabbed a metal rung and began pulled herself from post to post, slowly and steadily crossing the seating and closer to the collapsed floor. The wind pushed and pulled at her. Sometimes she felt as if it were trying to lift her. Nearly a quarter of the way to her destination she felt something go into her leg, and had to wrench it out again, one-handed and by feel. She came up with a metal scrap, the last several inches stained in her blood, and tossed it. The wind carried it away. She passed an intact chair, cracks in the floor, one several inches wide. A banister railing slid down the floor like an ancient jousters lance shed seen in the local history books. The building trembled, the light flared and receded. One of the walls began to crumble entirely, and the furnishings from the next room were incorporated into the whirlwind. Then Wyrren felt the floor under her shift, groan, and rise under her. She hung weightless for a moment. Then it all came crashing down. Wyrrens handhold bent, and her grip slipped and sliced her hand. The balcony groaned and crashed onto the floor. Wyrren felt the wind lift her, and held out her arms to catch herself. She heard her arm and wrist snap, then fell prone to the floor beside a pile of rubble. Her arm right arm curved like a snake, turning in directions her bones did not point in. Her head spun, and she curled into a fetal position around her broken arm, nauseous and thinking desperately for a way out, any way to get out. She shouldnt have come in here. She should have gotten Undil to follow her. Why did she do this? Why did she always do this? Darkness tinged with violet edges ate away at the floor nearby, leaving nothing in its wake. She heard Sebastian yelling, then an explosion so bright that afterward she could see nothing at allwhite under her eyelids and blackness before her, except for the biskmatry
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fragments devouring the floor. She could see that clearly, every speck of it as it moved embedded in her head. The ground shook again. She heard crashing, crackling, smoke, the sting of debris striking her skin. The blackness and violet reached her and gobbled the tip of a finger. Pain like Wyrren had never felt before filled her, pain to make her curving, bulging arm seem like a dull ache. She was on her feet again, facing the wind, her good arm shielding her face, her unsteady legs backing away from the biskmatry. The wind wasnt as strong here as it had been on the balcony. It pressed at her, but did not threaten to lift her up. bury you, Lowar! Sebastian shouted ahead of Wyrren. bury this city self-important bullshit! Wyrrens jaw hurt from clenching her teeth. She retreated a step from the darkness. The biskmatry followed, as if it wanted her in particular. More of it was coming. A rock struck her chest. She took another step back, pinned against the rubble. The darkness advanced and surrounded her, like something intelligent: it formed a ring and closed in. Sebastian! Wyrren screamed. Sebastian! The darkness crept closer. She shifted her foot, putting an extra few inches between her shoe and the approaching wave. Sebastian didnt break away from his fight. She doubted he even heard. Edward had told her that necromancy was a counter to biskmatry. She hoped that he was right. She thought of Death more desperately than she ever had before. She thought of the wilting, dead grass under her feet. She thought of the friends she had lost in Marla, then the men she had killed there herself, the Vastii palace that had looked so much like this after the coup. It all came to her at her call, and she felt her broken body radiate with the energy. The biskmatry closed in, outlining her feet and did not progress.
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Wyrren took a step forward blindly into the abyssal blackness. The biskmatry cleared just enough to form an island where she put her foot down. Stiff limbs and faded feathers. Wyrren took another step. Without her vision, she had no way to see what the wind was sending her way; fire streaking or stones hurtling through the air. Something crashed in front of her, but she continued on to where she knew Sebastian and Edward stood. Rabbits stiff with rigor mortis. Another step. Bones stabbing through petrified skin. Another. Meat eaten, joints gnawed, ball-joints broken. Another. Every fish and eel she had ever dined on. Endings and dust. The biskmatry followed her, pressing in, barely held back. Her eyesight began to return, enough to see color. She was inside a haze of light now, and could just make out a green blur on her left Edwards long green coat snapping around him. There was Sebastian on her right, and she could just make out a deep rift in the floor between them. Give it up, Sebastian! We both know how this ends! Edward shouted over the chaos. Then she was out of the hurricane and into the storms eye. She staggered, then thrust herself between the two men, where they would be sure to see her, and shouted as loudly as she could, STOP! The biskmatry dispersed. The wind stopped. Rock and rubble fell to the floor. They wouldnt hurt her. Not intentionally. Your arm. Sebastian broke the silence first. He stepped forward. Just Wyrren gasped for a breath, and waved him back with her good arm. His concert for her was the only thing holding his attention. Just stop! Stop. Sebastian stopped. What are you doing here? You pushed me out of the city, Wyrren said, and let herself drop. Being on the ground helped her dizziness, but she had to swallow down
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bile rising up her throat. I want you to stand down, both of you. Yes, you as well, Edward. Youre still half of the problem. Id like to think I was only one quarter of the problem, Edward said. Edward, please shut up before Sebastian goes insane again. Wyrren looked in Sebastians direction, her hands held out palm down before her. Please. Please believe me. This isnt how its supposed to go, Sebastian. However much you hate him, I think you need him more. Please. What? I dont need him! I never needed him! Sebastian insisted. And if it costs you your death? Wyrren asked. Havent you spent five thousand years trying everything else? What if youre wrong, Sebastian? What if you do need him? What if this is whats standing in your way? What would you lose?! Sebastian was silent for a long moment. Nothing, he finally admitted. And if you try, and you are sure I was mistaken later what is there to stop you from splitting yourself again? Wyrren asked. Certainly not him, Sebastian spat. I want you to try, Wyrren said. He had to try. You want me to try. Why? What makes you think that I need him, Wyrren? Sebastian asked. Because youre missing part of yourself, Wyrren said. Theres nothing good to be said for him! Sebastian countered. Hes your sense of humor, Wyrren said. And he has your sense of passion. Hes your suave charm and your quick wit. And yes, hes your sneaky, conniving side. We all have that. We deal with it as best we can. She paused to catch her breath, then continued. And you are his responsibility. Youre his sense of duty. His discipline. He has always needed you, hasnt he? If he needed me, then why did he run? Sebastian asked. Why has he done nothing but try to break me?!
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Edward? Wyrren asked. You Edward seemed to be without words for perhaps the first time since Wyrren had known him. We broke each other apart. I had no idea what had happened. You want the truth, Sebastian? You scare me. You still scare me. Look at what youre doing to the people around you. To your wives. To your sons. You wouldnt see me at all. You wouldnt talk. I had to force you. You didnt give me any other choice. Im doing this to gain my mortality. Sacrifice is required. You wouldnt know anything about that! Sebastian said. Stealing the lives of your children makes you a monster, not a mortal, Edward said. What does that make you then? Sebastian asked. Everything youre missing, Edward said. Everything you need to make it through an eternity. Sebastian seemed to be considering. Wyrren looked between them, silent. The ruin of the council was still. She made herself stagger in Sebastians direction, slowly, painfully. She stopped before him, on her knees. Please, she said. If you dont trust him then trust me. She could almost see his face by now. Sebastian looked down at her for a long, silent moment. Wyrren hoped. Then he held out his hand to Edward. Edward hesitated only for a moment, then jumped over the fissure between them and grabbed Sebastians hand. Another flash of blinding light enveloped them both. Wyrren, on the floor a few feet away, covered her eyes and looked away. The light faded. Edward Lowar and Sebastian del Torlo had vanished with it. The room became dark, lit only by moonlight through the broken roof and the glow of the emptied city. One man remained. He stood naked where Sebastian and Edward had been, his chest rising and falling as he breathed. He picked up a pair of underclothes first, then a pair of pants, and put them both on.
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He grabbed Edwards long green coat, but stopped dressing when he noticed her there on the floor. He knelt down beside her. Let me see your arm, he whispered. A different voice. A different man. Sebastian was gone. He touched her arm gently, and his hand glowed green. Ill try to keep this from hurting. Wyrren heard her bone crunch again, and was struck not by pain, but the clear wave that she ought to be in pain. He set the bone back into place and healed her arm and wrist. He pulled a piece of metal from her leg, put his hand on the side of her face and let her see clearly again. The fingertip clipped by biskmatry closed, but did not regrow. Her last finger on her left hand no longer had a nail. Gideon Flynn had dark hair long enough to fall into his face, but despite this Wyrren could just make out his expression: a mixture of longing and adoration. It scared her. He took her hand and kissed it. Thank you. Thank you so much. Its been so long. Youre welcome, Wyrren said. She put her hand over her slack mouth and looked down. Gideon caught her hand and pushed it away. You never needed your mask, Wyrren. You know me? Im Sebastian. Gideon frowned, then seemed to reconsider, and his mouth curved into a little smile. Almost Sebastian. Almost Edward. Not quite either. Its hard to explain. But yes, I know you. I have something I need to say to you. I should have said this weeks ago. Wyrren Jadis, I love you. I love you more than anything, a thousand times over. Forgive me? Wyrren let his hand go. She felt very unsure about all this, but she put her palm against his cheek and studied his face. His eyes were pale now, blue or gray, and his cheeks were scratchy against her fingers. She turned his head, looking for something of Sebastian or Edward in his eyes. He wrinkled his nose and looked vaguely offended for a moment,
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and then Wyrren saw them bothSebastians press of his lips, the lift of Edwards eyebrows, as if asking are you quite done yet?. She gasped and lunged, catching him in a tight hug around the shoulders. I didnt know what you were going to turn into, she said. I thought I might lose you. No. Never, Gideon said. Im yours as long as youll have me. Such as I am.
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Chapter 9
The council, bereft of their meeting hall, confiscated a courtroom the next day. Wyrren stood before them as one of several matters to be decided on. Mr. Kitch headed the proceedings. Lady Jadis. Your offer of protection was made and maintained by Grand Meister Sebastian del Torlo, is this correct? It is, sir, Wyrren answered. And as Sebastian del Torlo is no longer Grand Meister of our nation, and due to the problems housing you will place on palace security, Im going to have to rescind this offer, Kitch said, unless you strike a better deal, Lady Jadis. I cannot defend you from Marlan assassins, and I do not want to make the king de Marla angry. I will not deport you south, but you can not live under our charity or protection any longer. I understand, sir, Wyrren said. And I thank you. I would appreciate it if you extended your hospitality, however, long enough for my women to pack our things and find new accommodations. One of the councilmen whispered to another. Kitch nodded. Granted. You have a week. Then you must be gone. The furnishings and everything in the room before you came will stay. Agreed, Wyrren said. Thank you for your time. She curtsied
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and left the floor as the council dismissed her. The next man in line moved up. The seats and benches were mostly filled in the courtroom. Wyrren scanned the room until she found what she was looking for: a group of a dozen women sitting together. Wyrren started for them, asked a spectator to pardon her, and maneuvered to the bench where Kartania Reise sat. Kartania had been resting her chin in her hands. She looked up when Wyrren approached. What do you want, Jadis? I have a letter for you, Wyrren said, and pulled the envelope out of her bag. She placed it in Kartanias waiting hand. Also, I would like to apologize. This must have been a terrible week for you, and I had a hand in it. I am so sorry, Kartania. It was never my goal to hurt you. Really? Kartania asked, raising an eyebrow. What were you trying to do, exactly? I had overheard Edward threatening Sebastian early in the week, Wyrren said. Initially I was trying to spy on him. And after? After would you have refused the man you loved for the sake of politesse, if hed changed his mind? Wyrren asked. For an arranged match? Never, Kartania said. Neither could I. Wyrren shrugged. It wasnt a trait she was proud of, but if she had to do it all over again well, she would have followed Anas advice sooner, and then none of this would have happened. Good day, Lady Reise. Wait, Kartania said. Wyrren turned back. Why didnt you come to me, if Edward was out of line? I wouldnt have let anything hurt Sebastian. Certainly not my own escort. You broke my nose. Several of the Doppel girls began giggling. Kartania raised an eyebrow. You were asking for it.
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I was, Wyrren agreed. In Marla, we would have said insulting things and vague threats, then gone off to do something underhanded. Telling me you were having an affair is underhanded? I was kicked out of Marla for a reason, Wyrren said. Kartania wasnt laughing. She crossed her arms, twisted her mouth to the side, and gave Wyrren a good, long look. Fine. Youre forgiven. But only because you faced me honestly at the end. If you ever go to Doppel, I wont crush your skull with a mace. Wyrren wasnt sure if she was supposed to find this reassuring, but that was probably the best she would get out of Kartania. She thanked them and excused herself. <We have a week to move out,> Wyrren sent to Ana. <Because that was just so much to ask for,> Ana returned. <Did you get the items I asked?> Wyrren asked. <Everything,> Ana said. <Though moving Lowar out took some work, and I needed Verrus help to raid Sebastians office. So we have a liability again.> Ana paused. <Do we really need to leave Valdenemus, Wyrren? I like it here. I have an enormous wardrobe now. Ill have to travel with a cart just to hold all my things.> <Im afraid so,> Wyrren agreed. <But change change can be good. It helps you figure out whats important.> <Bah.> Outside, trees bearing tiny yellow-green leaves swayed in the wind. The afternoon sun shone down on the city below Wyrren. The river winding through the city sparkled. Flowers of all colors bloomed around the city. Wyrren saw Saffira tailing her out of the corner of her eye, and paid her no mind. Wyrren went into the city and bought a newspaper, went across town to the university, and had a word with her math professor. She gave him back his textbooks and thanked him for taking the time to teach her, but she might be leaving the city soon, and she formally withdrew from his class. He shook her hand and wished her well.
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At the riverfront, people hawked their waresfireworks for the big finale, the very last day of the blinkerbug festival. They promised it would be spectacular, and people bought bags of them to set off that night. Wyrren passed merchants selling masks, dresses, perfumes, costumes. Wyrren bought two meat pies, and ate one with one hand, dabbing her lips with a napkin. Some still stared, and always would. She ignored them. She would miss this city. At sundown she was escorted by a prison guard through the underbelly of the palace. He checked the things in her bag, and when he was satisfied he unlocked a cell door and let her inside. The cell had been partitioned by bars. On the other side Wyrren saw a table and chair, a bed, a toilet, and an illusionary window that showed the darkening sky outside. The blinkerbugs were beginning to stir and flash. A man reclined on the bed, and he rose when she approached. Gideon, Wyrren said. Gideon smiled and put his face between the bars. Evening, Wyrren, he said. Wyrren pecked his lips. Gideon grabbed her arm and drew her back for a longer kiss, and they hugged through the bars. It made the guard jumpy. Wyrren gave Gideon the newspaper, then slipped the second meat pie through the food slot in the door. Wyrren had no stool, so she sat on the floor beside him while he ate. Anas gotten your diary, Wyrren said. Edwards things were confiscated, but they didnt find his books, or his case of winnings from that chess match. Sebastians glasses with the blue lenses are missing as well. And by missing, she meant that Ana had stolen them all and stuffed the lot under Wyrrens bed. Wyrren would be using the next week to smuggle Gideons inheritance out of the palace. I delivered your apology to Kartania, and she promised not to try to kill me. Were still not sure what the council means to do with you, though. Execution
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isnt out of the question. Gideon gave a sharp laugh. Idiots. Folk tales dont appear every day. Not even in Hael Malstrom, Wyrren reminded him. The murder are out of a job, of course. The council are keeping them in the palace for now, but they dont know what theyll be doing, either. Perhaps we can take them with us, Gideon said. Do you know where you want to go? Wyrren asked. After I break out? Gideons fork went still as he considered. The white cliffs along the Attican coast. The ruins along the Tameric River. The Rikewell Sea, the tanomanmers jungle beyond that. There are so many places I want you to see. I expect youve been to them all. Many times, Gideon said. He put his dinner aside and took her hand through the bars. I need you, you know. I dont know if I can get my mortality back on my own. I know, Wyrren said. You always have been your own worst enemy. She leaned her head against the bars, felt the steel against her cheek. Ill be here for you. As long as I can. And it wouldnt be easy, Wyrren knew. And her lifetime might not be enough, and his mind was so fragile after all these years. She would have to find a way. They sat together on the prison floor and watched fireworks hand in hand.
About the Forever Series

The Forever Series is a series of fantasy novellas about immortality, magic, love, and everything in-between, available in print and ebooks. New books are released every few months. You can find out more at http://theforeverseries.com

Painted (The Forever Series #1)

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The Forever Series

Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler

The Legend of Gideon Flynn

Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler

Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler

Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler

Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler

Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler

Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler

Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler

Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler

Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler

Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler

Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler

Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler

Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler

Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler

Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler

Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler

Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler

Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler

Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler

Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler

Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler

Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler

Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler

Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler

Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler

Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler

Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler

Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler

Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler

Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler

Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler

Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler

Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler

Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler

Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler

Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler

Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler

Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler

Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler

Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler

Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler

Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler

Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler

Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler

Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler

Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler

Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler

Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler

Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler

Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler

Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler

Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler

Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler

Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler

Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler

Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler

Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler

Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler

Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler

Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler

Eliza Wyatt & Christian Leffler