Page 52 of Sword of Rage
“No, you’re correct,” she said. “That is how succession works here. And yes, King Owen is the legitimate king.” She focused on her mother. “When Russek invaded us, they killed the entire royal family except for Owen.” She took a deep breath, preparing to explain how Hollis had been killed in Owen’s place.
“I thought someone else was sitting on the throne,” Lady Mayle mumbled.
“That’s what we’ve heard,” Ackley said. “Can you imagine King Owen’s shock when he learned a lowly foot soldier had taken up the Melenia throne?”
The only sound in the room was the fire crackling as the wood burned.
Finally, Lady Mayle asked, “Why are you here?” Her focus remained on Ackley.
“We’re just passing through,” Ackley answered nonchalantly.
Harley knew him well enough to know this was all an act. Since Owen had told him that he suspected her parents of something, Ackley must have an idea of what it was. That, coupled with the fact that her mother was behaving strangely, made Harley squirm. She didn’t want to face the possibility that something was amiss here. However, she’d be a fool not to.
“Why is a prince from Marsden here in Melenia? Why are you with my daughter?”
“I’m here because of a new treaty.” He raised a single eyebrow, as if anticipating her response.
“A treaty between whom?” Lady Mayle whispered. “Did Commander Beck send you?” Her voice shook.
Instead of answering, Ackley stood. “We need to be on our way if we’re going to reach our destination before nightfall.”
The sky outside had turned dark.
“Where is your destination?” Lady Mayle asked, also standing.
“You don’t need to concern yourself with your daughter. I’ll take good care of her.”
Lady Mayle considered him a long moment before responding, “You can remain here for the night if you so wish.”
“No,” Ackley replied. “That won’t be necessary. I didn’t even want to waste my time stopping here, but Lady Harley insisted.” He glanced around, his face cringing. “Let’s be on our way.” He sauntered from the room. “My men will be wondering where we are.”
Hurrying after him, Harley wasn’t sure if her mother heard that last part, though she assumed Ackley had said it simply for her mother’s benefit. Ackley was a man she couldn’t even begin to comprehend. However, she knew without a doubt that everything he did, he did for a specific reason.
“Can I see Father before we leave?” While she knew his health had been declining, being confined to his room was something new. If she could just see his face, hold his hand, she’d feel better.
“He’s sleeping, and I don’t want to wake him.” Lady Mayle followed them out of the sitting room and down the hallway toward the front door. “But you are welcome to visit with me longer. You don’t need to leave so soon,” she said a little louder than necessary.
Harley glanced over her shoulder at her mother, wondering again about her odd behavior. “Are you all right?”
Lady Mayle pushed a loose strand of hair off her forehead and glanced around, as if expecting to see someone lurking nearby. Lowering her voice, she said, “There are things you don’t know. Factors at play you can’t even begin to comprehend.”
“Tell me,” Harley insisted, taking her mother’s hands in hers.
“You wouldn’t understand.”
“I will. Or I’ll try.”
Lady Mayle peered at Ackley. “I’m sorry, Harley. I’m forbidden from telling you.”
Her mother always did take her oaths, secrets, and station seriously. “Can I at least see Father before I leave?”
“If you stay the night, you can see him in the morning.”
Ackley’s fingers slid around Harley’s upper arm and he whispered in her ear, “We need to leave. Now.”
“Please give Father my love.” She squeezed her mother’s hands, then released them.
“I will.” She kissed Harley’s cheek. “Always remember I love you.”
