Page 15 of Court of Secrets and Flames

“Much better. Now, let’s start over. Good afternoon, my lady. I was wondering when you’d wake up. You’ve been asleep for several hours.” introduces herself with a small, elegant bow that doesn’t diminish her imposing stature. “I am Rhiann of House Barda, cousin to the king and the prince, and Lady of the Bedchamber.”

“It’s a pleasure to meet you.”

Honestly, it’s too soon to make a judgement call on Lady Rhiann yet, but good manners never hurt anyone.

With precise flick of her fingers, she beckons the guards inside. A battle-scarred warrior I don’t recognize scuttles to obey, depositing a tray with quiet efficiency before he’s dismissed with a mere flick of her hand.

The door thuds shut, and she stands sentinel by the entrance.

Her title and the way she commands even the soldiers tells me everything I need to know.

She’s not one of the typical bedchamber maids, the women who not only clean but help people bathe and dress. The Lady of the Bedchamber is exclusive to royalty. She’s a caretaker for those crowned or high nobles.

“Your stay here shall be comfortable.” Rhiann eyes me with a raised brow. “I’ll ensure you have everything you require.”

Do I warrant the services of the Lady of the Bedchamber due to my own title in Aclaris? Or did the king send her because the entire Tirene court and likely many of its citizens witnessed firsthand I’m a dragoncaller?

“Thank you, Lady Rhiann. I appreciate that.” So far, she seems more straightforward and less stab-worthy than King Jasper, but I can’t forget they’re cousins.

Her relation to the king aside, I have no doubt this woman knows every room, every rumor, and all the hidden paths and routes throughout the palace. That makes her a useful ally.

When did I get so cutthroat about how I view others? Oh, right…probably after I discovered how many people were trying to torment, use, or kill me.

She lowers her chin. “Please, call me Rhiann. And tell me, how are you feeling? I was there this morning. Using your abilities like that must have utterly drained you. Especially if you’re not accustomed to it.”

The reminder of this morning’s ordeal burns my blood molten with fury. “Yes, well, it’s not like I had much of a choice in the matter, is it? And I’d feel better if someone told me where my sister is.”

“Your sister is safe and also recuperating.” Whether she approves of the king’s method of coaxing out my abilities or not, she gives no indication. Her quick reply mollifies my immediateconcern over Leesa, though, and softens the sharp edge of my anger. “Now, why don’t you tell me how you’re feeling?”

I remind myself of my earlier vow to play nice. “I’m,” I run a hand through my tangled hair, “a little tired, but all right other than that.”

My back aches like a dragon perched on my spine, but I won’t tell her that. While she seems friendly enough, I can’t let my guard down.

“That’s to be expected. I would have let you sleep longer, but there’s no time to waste as it is. There’s a celebration banquet tonight in your honor, and we haven’t much time to prepare.”

Before I can ask after this celebration, the door flies open, and maids start to stream in. Over their heads, two guards peer into the room.

Yelping, I snatch the sheet and yank it up to my neck. Rhiann throws her arm in front of the first servant and snaps. “When you know someone’s inside, wait for permission before barging in. This isn’t how we treat our guests.”

She maneuvers in front of the opening, blocking the guards’ view.

My breath stills for a moment, and I feel a small burst of gratitude over her gesture.

Though modesty ranks pretty low on my list of concerns at the moment, I’d prefer not to flash the entire castle if at all possible.

Rhiann orders the guards to turn their backs before glancing at me. “Is it okay for me to let them in now?”

I’m tempted to ask what happens if I say no but nod instead. I need to pick my battles.

A parade of maids squeezes through the gap between door and frame. They flock into the chamber, the array of gowns draped over their arms reminiscent of the banners of an approaching army.

The dresses I wore at our estate in Aclaris were lovely, but these gowns? They’re exquisite.

“As I was saying, a night of celebration awaits, Lady Lark.” Rhiann’s eyes betray nothing of the thoughts behind them. I picture Sterling’s inscrutable expressions and wonder if the ability to put on a cryptic front runs in the family. “The king has ordered a royal banquet in your honor this evening that will start in three hours’ time.”

I glance at my ragged, dirty nails. “I’m a mess.”

“Best get started then.” Rhiann gestures to the women, who deposit their offerings and scurry off to the door on the other side of the room. “The bathing chamber awaits, where you may eat a late lunch as we attend to your needs.”

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