Page 119 of A Crown Without Mercy

Riordan lifted her chin and cocked his head. “What’s wrong? We thought you would be excited?”

“Don’t get me wrong, I am. It’s just—will everyone be told I’m an Ascelin?”

“Yes, and we understand your trepidation,” Riordan replied.

“I have hidden my identity for so long, I feel as though I am betraying my mother.”

Nicolai leaned over and kissed her forehead. “You are not betraying her. You are claiming your identity.”

“We know you told Venthana we are mated, but please do not reveal this to anyone else until we make the formal announcement,” Nicolai added.

“Can I tell my family?”

“Of course,” Riordan replied. He then nodded toward the flower she was spinning between her fingers. “What color flowers would you like for the ceremony?”

Sylvana was in the sitting room with a book in her hand, waiting for Venthana to arrive. “Milady, your guest has arrived,” Cassius, her personal guard, stated.

She set the book down and headed for the parlor with him in tow. “Are you ready?”

Venthana asked.

“Yes.” She wrapped her arm in Venthana’s and they headed down the long hallways toward the main wing. “I heard your brother wanted to speak with you regarding me.”

“Yes. He reiterated what I already knew. What is said between us stays between us.”

“I’m sorry. Being friends with me shouldn’t come with a warning,” Sylvana joked.

Venthana laughed. “Being a member of court comes with many warnings, Sylvie. You are an Acheron and with that comes a higher level of responsibility and discretion. Lenora is now in the same position.”

“I appreciate you understanding,” Sylvana replied.

“Listen, I felt an innate connection to you the night we first met at the games. I truly enjoy your company whether you are an Acheron or not. To be honest, you have been a breath of fresh air. The ladies of court are tantamount to a spider web; their intricately spun beauty is just a distraction from the huntress’s true intensions. I also feel somewhat isolated, seeing how my brother is a member of the Guild.”

“An eloquent way to put it.” Sylvana laughed. “I am happy I met you.”

Venthana jokingly bumped her shoulder. “As am I.”

“Milady, I hate to interrupt but your family has arrived,” Cassius interjected.

“Your family is here?” Venthana asked.

“Apparently. Will you excuse me? I need to go see them.”

“Of course. Come down later and bring them along.”

Chapter 17

SylvanastoodoutsideCalista’schamber door and took a deep breath.Relax,she told herself as she slowly opened the door.

“I will be right outside, milady,” Cassius said before pulling the door closed.

“Sylvana!” Mira ran over and leapt into her arms. “Are you mad at me?” she whispered.

“No sweetie, not at all.” She set her down and looked at Calista, whose cold expression and body language let her know she was not happy.

“I thought I heard your voice,” Alaric said, as he walked through the adjoining door.

“Mira, go to your room. We need to speak to Sylvie,” Calista said.

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