Chapter 210: Freezing air.
Before stepping into the carriage to leave the castle and head to the Cave temple, Ren caught sight of Lucas and Jace making their way toward the forge, soot smudging their sleeves and firelight dancing behind them. She lifted a hand, signaling Arkilla without a word. The armored guard nodded and peeled away from her luna to fetch the boys.
Moments later, the brothers stood before her, heads bowed low in silent reverence.
"We are at your disposal, Your Highness," they said in unison, their voices soft, skeptical. Rarely did their Queen talk to them.
Ren’s smile wavered, tinged with sorrow. "How is your mother’s fever?"
Lucas lifted his gaze. "Thanks to you, she’s much better. She only cries for Gloria now."
The name struck a tender place in Ren’s chest. Guilt gnawed at her, this family had lost so much, and still, she asked for more. But Gloria had to leave this family to live. If Luther had opened his mouth, the girl’s blood would’ve darkened the palace stones. A secret heir was a threat. A rival. And an easy prey to kill.
"Tell her to come and see me tomorrow evening," Ren said, her voice serene but firm. "Bring little Dave too."
The boys bowed again, holding the gesture even as she turned away. Only when her carriage wheels rolled down the gravel path did Jace lean toward his brother?
"It’s getting dark," he whispered. "Where’s she going?"