Page 71 of A Vow of Wrath and Ruin

Amolie changed into a black satin gown that cinched at the waist, making her breasts look particularly ample. “Ready.”

We pulled Baylis from the library, where she was studying a book on poisonous mushrooms, and headed down to greet Ursula.

Thanks to the blue fire sprites I hired to light the chandelier, the ballroom glowed an elegant aqua.

Ursula marveled at the intricate murals on the walls depicting ancient battles of the Alder King riding his famed white stag. Her spider silk dress of woven fishnets left little to the imagination, and she wore her blue hair in pleats around her head. She was a clever girl. She knew we’d be playing games tonight, and she came prepared.

“Beautiful, aren’t they?” I asked, summoning the diplomat I’d been in another life.

She raked her sea glass eyes over my curves, lingering where my hair brushed my collarbones.

“Quite exquisite.”

Baylis and Amolie took their seats at the long table.

“Come, sit. I hope you have good news for me, my friend.”

She took the open seat next to the head of the table.

I ran my hands over my dress, collecting myself.Do not let the merc out no matter how she may tempt you. You are not that person anymore.

I snapped my fingers, and satyrs streamed from the kitchens into the grand ballroom, silver trays stretched high over their horns.

Finneas, the head satyr, poured us a glass of red wine each.

I held my glass in the air. “A toast. To friendship.”

“To friendship!” We clinked our glasses together.

The satyrs pulled the lids off the plates, revealing an array of suckling meats and roasted vegetables, complete with an assortment of pastries for dessert.

“Did you speak to your queen, Ursula?”

She clicked her tongue. “In the court of the Undersea, we wait until after dinner to discuss business. But yes, I did.”

“And?”

She sighed, toying with her food.

“She said she’ll make a deal with you.”

My chest tightened, but I dared not show it on my face.

“That’s good. What does she want?”

“We can discuss that after dinner. I’d like to finish my meal first. Then we can talk about a bargain.”

I shut my eyes. Should have known a magical bargain would’ve been involved. At least Conrad had the decency to spare me that.

“Wait, she’s not here. I’d have to shake her hand to make a bargain with her.”

“Who said anything about the bargain being with her?” A wicked smile cut across Ursula’s delicate yet terrifying face.

“I should have known better.” I downed the rest of my drink. “The deal will be with you on behalf of your queen.”

“Everything I do is for my queen. My life is hers to do with as she commands.”

“Ursula,” Baylis chimed in. “How did you become the queen’s assassin? I bet there’s a story there.”

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