Page 11 of Queen of Serpents and Shadows

“Your message was thorough,” Ryvin commented.

“Our father is in your throne room. He’s already killed your entire council,” Laera announced.

“Subtle,” Vanth murmured.

Laera glanced at him out of the corner of her eye, but didn’t seem bothered by his comment.

Bahar’s hands balled into fists. “What else do you know?”

“They’ve got the princess. He’s holding her hostage,” Laera added.

Someone charged us, but Bahar interfered, dropping the attacking shifter to the ground before I even lifted my blade. The man’s head made a sickening crack when it hit a rock. Blood poured, turning the earth crimson. Empty eyes stared up at us. A knife lay near the dead man’s hand.

Gasps and whispers sounded, but nobody else made a move for us.

“Anyone else have a problem with our guests?” Bahar asked.

A woman stepped forward, chin high, posture strong. She lowered her eyes to look at the fallen man and her upper lip curled in momentary disgust before looking at her king. “If you say they are allies, they are allies. But I want to know how the witch knows this information.”

Bahar looked at Laera.

The princess rolled her eyes, then let out an exaggerated sigh. “I’m not sure if I’m more insulted at the insinuation that I’m a spy or the fact that my reputation wasn’t enough.”

“She’s got a uniquegift,” Ryvin said.

“She can read minds, is what you’re saying,” the woman accused.

Several of the dragons standing behind her shifted their weight uncomfortably. One of them covered their ears with their hands as if that would keep Laera out.

Laera shrugged. “If you say so.”

“It’s considered impolite to ask fae what their magic can do,” Bahar said. “Even their own parents don’t know. Which in this case, benefits us.”

The woman grunted. “Stay out of my head.”

“I don’t waste my time on useless drivel,” Laera said with a dismissive wave of her hand.

The woman tensed, and for a moment, I thought she might attack Laera, but she relaxed, then returned to the group.

“Come on over,” Bahar said. “I have a feeling you three will be able to help us with this plan.”

We listened as someone explained the drawing of the tunnels and I tried not to think about the last time I’d been underground. The wild magic had nearly killed me, but we weren’t facing that. This time it was crumbling, ancient tunnels that hadn’t been used in so long, they weren’t even sure if they were still intact.

“You don’t think these entrances are monitored from the inside?” Vanth asked.

“The only people who knew about them are all dead or here with us,” Bahar replied.

“Who’s dead?” Kabir asked. He was limping, and oneside of his face was angry and red. The prince must have been injured in the initial attack on the city.

Bahar rose and rushed to the newcomer. “You’re up, thank the gods.” He embraced the man in a curt manner that made the other man grunt.

“Careful, Nissa says I’m fragile now. Or at least I will be until I heal up a little more.” He nodded toward me. “Princess,” then at Ryvin, “Your highness.”

“I am also royalty, but please, continue to ignore me,” Laera said smugly.

“None of us need the titles,” Ryvin cut in.

Laera huffed. “Speak for yourself.”

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