Page 26 of Prince of Shadow and Ash

A powerful relic guarded by a dragon sounded ominous. Evil. Giving the sorcerer more power seemed a mistake. But what else could he do?I can’t resist him.Regulus rubbed the mark through his sleeve.I’ve tried.

He sank onto his bed and pulled out Adelaide’s letter. He touched her signature and let himself imagine dancing with her, holding her. It was flattering she thought he would be invited. Would she mind that he wasn’t? He looked up at the mirror. It didn’t matter. No woman deserved a sorcerer’s slave. Regulus’ heart clenched as he ripped the letter in half.

Chapter 9

ADELAIDE LEANED OUTof the carriage window as they approached the Carrick’s massive castle. Fading daylight cast an orange glow over the long, wide drive lined with chestnut trees and filled with other carriages and riders. The deep, crenelated wall encompassing the castle, extensive gardens, and courtyards stood three stories tall. Towers emerged above the wall about every fifty paces. The bottom of a portcullis peeked out of the archway above the towering iron-covered front gates. A water fountain depicting a mermaid holding a giant shell over her head dominated the courtyard.

The castle itself was four stories tall and square, with large, round five-story-tall towers at each corner. Crenellations wrapped around the entirety of the castle. Pale limestone formed the edifice, including the gargoyles and grotesques depicting mythical creatures spaced along the top of the castle. Not for nothing were the Carricks known as the wealthiest baronial family in Monparth. Rumor had it their wealth approached that of the ducal families.

Carriages, horses, and servants filled the courtyard. The sound of creaking carriages, hoof-beats, neighs, bubbling water, and chatter echoed against the walls of the castle. Smoke from the myriad of torches arranged around the courtyard wafted in the air. A servant greeted their party, directing others to see to their mounts and baggage. Adelaide turned around, wide-eyed, taking in everything. And she thought Father’s castle was impressive. Minerva shook Adelaide’s shoulder, diverting her attention from the displays of power. They were being escorted inside.

Inside was just as grand. The foyer sported vaulted ceilings and brightly colored tapestries covered stone walls. Coats of armor and bronze statues stood guard in the halls. A marble statue of an embracing woman and man on the brink of sharing a kiss stood on a large limestone pedestal in the center of the foyer. Adelaide slowed to a stop, marveling at the intricate detail on their simple, draping clothes. They even had fingernails.

“It’s a beautiful piece,” a male voice said near her shoulder. Adelaide jumped and turned toward the speaker. Nolan simpered. “Apologies. I didn’t mean to startle you, Lady Adelaide.”

“Sir Carrick.” She smiled and curtsied, but her pulse hammered behind her temple.

“I thought we had agreed on Nolan?” He looked up at the statue. “My father acquired this when he was fighting in the Trade War. I understand your father won a good deal of his fortune in that conflict.”

“Yes.” Adelaide fixed her gaze on the marble curls of the woman’s hair. “King Olfan was generous in rewarding his bravery.” She hated when people made it sound like her father was a mere robber warrior, even if war spoils had added to his wealth.

“He met your mother while in Carasom, is that correct?”

“Yes. She was traveling with her father.” Adelaide braced herself for the inevitable casual judgment of her mother’s non-noble lineage.

“She must have made quite an impression. You take after her—impossible to ignore.”

Wait...what?She glanced sideways at Nolan. His mouth curved up in a slight smile and his eyes glinted as his gaze wandered over her. Her cheeks flushed, and she looked back to the statue.

Nolan laughed. “Don’t be shy.” He gestured to the statue. “Beautiful things are meant to be admired.”

“Pardon me, Sir Carrick.” Adelaide was relieved to hear Lady Drummond’s voice. “But I’m afraid I must steal Lady Belanger. We were just on our way to our quarters.”

“Ah, forgive me.” Nolan bowed and swept up Adelaide’s hand, brushing a kiss against her fingers. He smiled as he released her hand. “I look forward to seeing you at supper.”

As they followed a maid down the hall, Lady Drummond smiled conspiratorially. “I believe Sir Nolan has it in mind to court you, dear girl. Lucky you!”

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