Page 52 of Sword of Desire
“It starts at noon,” someone to his right said.
“Where’s the ceremony taking place?” another asked.
“I think on the open tower,” the elderly cook answered. “That way everyone can see.”
“Are we serving food in the great hall afterward?”
“Yes.”
Unable to stand there any longer for fear of being noticed, Ackley exited the kitchen and turned right. As he walked along the corridor, he tried to decide what ceremony was most likely taking place at noon. Probably Harley’s coronation, which would explain why Harley’s mother was at the royal castle. He took a bite of the bread he’d taken. Not only did he need to decide his next move, but he needed to see Harley for himself. He couldn’t believe she’d willingly be crowned queen—not with Owen alive.
Outside the castle, Ackley headed toward the tents, wanting to blend in and overhear what the soldiers were saying.
Galvin suddenly appeared at his side. “A letter just arrived,” he mumbled so low no one would overhear. “It’s in my tent.”
Ackley gave a curt nod and headed that way. Once he located the right tent, he went inside. He found a piece of paper beneath the bedroll. Unfolding it, he saw that it was from Owen. He quickly read the contents. When he finished, he cursed.
Owen had received a message from Harley stating that his soldiers and their loved ones were in Losger. However, the Kreng army refused to ride with Owen because they feared leaving Kreng unprotected. Three ships, each filled with soldiers, had docked off the coastline. Owen then proceeded to ask if Ackley would bring his men and join with him near Penlar. Then, together, they would march to Losger and rescue everyone.
There were two major problems. One, Ackley wasn’t with his men; he was at the castle checking up on Harley. And two, the Melenia soldiers’ family members weren’t in Losger. Ackley knew it had to be a trap.
Harley
Sitting in the dark room, Harley thought of all the ways she’d love to murder Lyle. Fury consumed her that she’d allowed him to lock her in this empty room. At least the dungeon had some light. Guilt and self-loathing inundated her. If only she hadn’t hesitated when he’d opened his eyes. If she’d plunged the sword into his neck, he’d be dead. Even if he fought with her, she probably would have done enough damage to kill him. Since she’d gotten herself into this mess, it was up to her to get herself out of it.
The door creaked open, and bright light shot into the room. Squinting, she watched a plump woman enter, followed by two soldiers.
“It’s time to get you dressed,” the woman said. “Let’s go.”
Harley scrambled to her feet, assuming she had to dress for the coronation. Instead of asking any questions, she quietly followed the woman out of the room, the guards close behind them.
They entered the adjacent room. A single bed and armoire indicated it was a simple guest suite, one used for less important guests. An ornate gown fit for a queen had been laid on the bed, looking out of place in the plain room.
The soldiers remained in the hallway, closing the door to give Harley and the servant privacy.
Alone with the woman, Harley assumed she was supposed to get ready, and this delightful person was there to help her. Not caring to make small talk, she removed her nightdress and stepped into the light blue silk gown. As she pulled the gown up and over her shoulders, she became light-headed and swooned. The woman grabbed Harley’s arm, steadying her.
“I’m all right,” Harley insisted. “It’s just been a while since I’ve had anything to eat.” She figured it had to be at least a full day since she’d had food.
The woman didn’t respond. Once Harley had the gown on, the woman cinched it together, lacing the ties in the back. Then she proceeded to arrange Harley’s hair atop her head. Satisfied with Harley’s appearance, the woman opened the door.
The two guards escorted Harley to the staircase where Lyle stood waiting for her.
When she neared him, he held out his hand for her. She hesitated.
He dismissed the woman, but the guards remained. “Let me show you something.” He waved for Harley to follow him down the hallway. Opening the fourth door on the right, he motioned for Harley to look inside.
Harley leaned in and saw Lady Mayle sitting on a chair next to the window. “Mother?” She stepped forward, about to rush into the room so she could hug her.
Lyle grabbed her arm, stopping her.
Lady Mayle stood, facing Harley, tears in her eyes, as she remained on the other side of the room.
“Lady Mayle is here as my guest,” Lyle said, speaking into Harley’s ear, his hot breath assaulting her. “She will remain a guest so long as you cooperate with me. Is that understood?”
Harley nodded.
“If you say or do anything I don’t like, your mother will meet the same fate as Hollis.”
