Page 86 of Prince of Shadow and Ash

“I’m not,” he said through gritted teeth. “Tell the men to tidy up the camp and get a fire going. Get Harold to a cot. And put a tent over Sieger. I’ll be back soon.”

Dresden stopped as Regulus broke into a jog. “Where are you going?”

“To get Adelaide.”

Chapter 31

“ADELAIDE!” THE PANICin Regulus’ voice chilled Adelaide to her core.

She pushed Giselle aside and ran out of her tent, not caring that Giselle had eased the lacing on the back of her dress and that it sagged a little around her shoulders.

Light from a nearby torch reflected in Regulus’ wide eyes. His scar pulled at his skin, wrinkling against his grimace. “I need your help,” he panted. “Please.”

“What’s going on?” Gaius walked out of his tent, followed by Minerva. “Lord Hargreaves?”

“Please,” Regulus begged. “I need your...I need your help.”

“Help forwhat?” Gaius demanded.

“Regulus, what’s wrong?” Adelaide placed a hand on Regulus’ forearm and his shoulders sank further.

His throat bobbed as he swallowed. His chest heaved. “Harold and Sieger. They’ve been attacked. They’re hurt.”

“What?” she gasped.

“Harold says he’s all right, but...I...he—I’m not sure he is.” Regulus hung his head. “And Sieger...” His voice broke. “I—I might have to... Please.” He took a shaky breath as his shoulders quivered, and her heart cracked. “I... I understand if you can’t help. But...I had to ask.” He met her eyes. “I’m sorry. I had to ask.”

Fear slid like ice down her spine.Someone could find out.But he looked so broken.Nolan might already know, anyway...

“This is my fault,” he whispered, looking away.

“Nolan,” she guessed, anger melting away her fear.

Regulus shook his head. “He was mingling with other nobles all night. But he has to be behind it.”

If Nolan was behind the attack, and if Nolan suspected her magic, healing Regulus’ horse would confirm her power. But if Nolan was behind the attack, it was likely because he hated she had chosen Regulus. It wasn’t Regulus’ fault, or hers. But she understood his guilt.

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