Page 125 of Shadows and Roses

Reluctant nods and grumbled assent. Vern gave Thakris a glance.

As the others filed out, Anais said, "Escort Thakris. Keep an eye on Duchess Kipos as well."

The woman had a slight smile as she bowed.

She didn’t believe Damon attacked his own people, but this complicated things. The nobles would be upset at the supposedly tamed rebel recruits. Perhaps it was time to wipe the board of her court. Her eyes scanned the map. There would always be chaos. Was she delaying because they were truly not ready, or because she was afraid?

When her mother had poisoned all those children, the nobles hadn’t expected such a large-scale event. They would be prepared this time.

She was not ready.

—

The next day, Damon entered her study flanked by two guards.

A sheet of paper fluttered onto her desk.

"The list, your majesty." His voice was flat.

"Thank you, Damon." She gestured at a seat.

The rebel leader glared as she scanned the paper. This anger felt hot and bright, not like the deep-seated rage that she’d glimpsed before.

Anais looked up. "Are there any other rogue factions?"

"Several small ones. They’re on the list."

"Have the captives agreed to join?"

"They will."

Why do you hate noblewomen?

Anais set down the paper. "This will go away in a week or two. These rogue companies marching across the nation are stirring up the court far more. Have you discovered anything?"

His eyes narrowed slightly as he shook his head. "That’s it? Not going to string me up and throw me on the coals?"

"The coals are for the nobles. They seem to adore you."

He shrugged, then leaned on one elbow. "Their game is easy—cruelty in plain sight, all their whims attended to. Even Satryani doesn’t hide her intentions. She wants war. The legions are hers."

She knew that already. "Yes, she’s wanted war for longer than I’ve been alive. But what is she doing with her army?"

Damon smiled crookedly. "Dariusand all your spies can’t find out?"

"They will, it’s only a matter of time. If you have nothing for me, Damon…"

He raised his chin slightly. "Patience, my lady. Allow me to savor a moment after false accusations."

She sighed.Insufferable.

"Fine, fine," he chuckled. "The ever-so-magnanimous Lady Satryani offered me a barony. She wants to go to war… withyou."

Anais went still. The two guards by the door took a step closer.

A small flick of her fingers kept them back.

Damon was far too relaxed, his grin calm as he stared at her boldly. He was ill-positioned if he intended harm.

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