Page 26 of These Violent Delights

Lady Divine stared at her, captivated.

“And we will build you a house.Every door frame will be carved in stone with your name and pictures of your story.”

Lady Divine took a shaky breath.“How do I know you will keep your word?”

“We will sign the contract in front of witnesses.Although it's a difficult thing.I don't know if you want to try, but it will keep me from ordering someone to chop off your head for trying to kill me.”

“Why not just kill her?”Ozzy asked, recognizing his cue.He looked at Lady Divine with contempt.“It's a death sentence anyway, and she's too stupid to pull it off.”

“The crossbow was very clumsy,” Uncle Tank added critically.

Lady Divine's eyes narrowed, hard with determination.“Show me the contract.”

***

“YOU'RE GOING TO SENDa teenage girl after the Beast queen?”Uncle Tank asked, watching Ozzy's men escort Lady Divine away at first light.He still sounded doubtful.

“I am,” Zelda said with satisfaction.Her sister was like a dog with a bone.If she really was committed to being famous, Zelda had just given her the opportunity of a lifetime.That kind of drive could accomplish wonders.

Of course, she could still try and sneak back here and kill Zelda, but the payoff wasn't nearly as great.It was a gamble.

“Do you think it will work?”It was evident he was deeply skeptical.

“Well, she's proved she won't balk at murder, which makes her a good candidate for the job.”If she died in the attempt, it would keep her from bothering Zelda.

If she tried to show up without the Beast Queen's head, she would be shot on sight.

Win, win.

Grandma Redbone

Ozzy's sister Sertaand grandmother Jun visited the castle.They wore traditional tribal leathers and carried themselves like queens.

Zelda got the distinct feeling she was being evaluated, but as what?A potential family member?

That was a sobering thought.These women were in a class of their own.

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