Page 130 of Staff of Nightfall

Several moments passed before the king spoke. “Sir Michael, please gather the pieces and have them thrown into the sea at three different points.” Sir Michael gathered the pieces as the king continued. “Lieutenant Beale remove her shackles. Adelaide Belanger, you have asked for our pardon, and we freely—and gratefully—give it.”

“Thank you, Your Excellency.” Adelaide swayed as she stood and curtsied to the king, then drew back next to Regulus. Beale didn’t look pleased as he removed her manacles, but she was too relieved to care.

“You are dismissed, Lieutenant Beale.” The king waved a hand. Beale bowed to the king and departed with a quick glare at Adelaide.

Regulus placed his arm around her shoulders, and Adelaide slumped against his side, exhausted.

“We owe you both our life and our kingdom.” The king inclined his head. “What reward would you ask of us?”

Could they ask to be released from the guard? She didn’t want to appear dismissive of the king’s generosity, but would asking be impertinent? Regulus also seemed unsure since he didn’t speak. She had just been pardoned; maybe humility was best.

“Your Excellency,” Adelaide said with a wobbly curtsy, “your continued rule is a reward in itself.”

The king smiled. “A noble answer, but please. This is your chance to ask anything.” His eyes danced. “We grant you two boons to show our gratitude. The first is our choice, the second is yours. First, in recognition of your service and your sacrifice, we release you, Lady Adelaide Belanger and Lord Regulus Hargreaves of Arrano, from our service. You are free to return to your former lives.”

She curtsied and heard Regulus sigh with relief as he bowed.

“What would you ask of us?” the king pressed.

Before Adelaide thought of an answer, Regulus whispered in her ear. She smiled and nodded.

“Your Excellency, there is only one thing I want in this entire world.” Regulus squeezed her hand. “Would Your Excellency perform our marriage rites?”

Chapter 47

“Marriage? Right now?” The king’s forehead wrinkled. “Here?”

“If it pleases Your Excellency, yes.” Adelaide tapped her toes, impatience restoring some of her drained energy. They could find a priest or lord or someone if the king said no, but she was ready now.

A slow smile spread over the king’s face. He stood. “Very well.” He looked around the room. “I shall send for a unity cord.”

She untied the thin midnight blue cloth belt from her waist. “We can use this, Your Excellency.”

The king took the belt. “Face each other and take each other’s right hand.”

They did as instructed, and Adelaide could no longer stop her wide smile. Regulus grinned until the skin wrinkled around his scar. She fixed her gaze on his sparkling gray eyes and her pulse quickened in eager anticipation.

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