Page 14 of The Queen's Crown
“I believe someone in Lynk’s court knows or saw something that can lead us to the killer. Maybe there’s a mole. Someone who helped the assassin gain access to the palace in the first place.” She glanced over her shoulder at the door. “When you’re there, don’t trust anyone.”
“I won’t.” She reached out and took hold of her mother’s hand, squeezing it.
“Good. But to ensure your safety,” Elsa said, “you need to be prepared. Alina knew her wifely duties and what was expected of her as the future queen of Lynk. However, she couldn’t defend herself or navigate the politics of the kingdom. Her death proves that. You will be ready.” She released her daughter’s hand. “You must be able to identify each of these poisons.”
Sabine nodded, ready to try again with renewed vigor.
“Most poisons are made from plants. Each has a slight trace of that plant. If you know which one, you’ll recognize the poison.”
That made sense. As to why Rolf hadn’t just said so, Sabine didn’t know.
“Your brother has collected the most commonly used poisons.” Elsa pulled the first bowl toward Sabine. “What do you notice about this one?”
“It’s a yellow powder.” She didn’t smell anything pungent, but she didn’t want to stick her nose in it either.
“It’s the center of a yellow makey flower. Because it can be ground up without losing potency, it’s usually sprinkled over food. One bite and you’ll be dead.”
Sabine pushed the bowl a little farther away.
“It does no good learning the smell of this one since the food can mask the smell. If you taste it, it’s already too late because you’ll be dead in thirty seconds.”
“What do you recommend then?” Sabine asked, horror filling her. She’d never be able to eat food again and enjoy it. Every time she took a bite, she’d be wondering if it was her last.
“When your plate is set before you, take a moment to look at your food. If you notice anything with yellow powder on it, don’t touch it. This poison won’t melt or change properties, so you should see it if you’re paying attention.”
She nodded her head, trying to remember everything her mother said.
“The king should provide a food taster, especially after what happened to Alina; however, I don’t know how good the person will be. Also, the best chance of killing you via poison will be when food comes from the kitchen to your chambers in the morning. I recommend you not take food in your room. Try to eat with the king as much as possible to ensure the meal isn’t tampered with on its way to you.”
Sabine swallowed, her stomach feeling sick with all this information. The idea of going to Lynk was becoming overwhelming. Dangerous. A stupid idea. Here in Bakley, she had guards and servants who were loyal and protected her. When she reached Lynk, she’d be truly alone with only herself for protection.
She rubbed her temples and looked at the next bowl. “What about this one?” She pulled it closer, noticing it was a light green liquid and had a funny smell that made her eyes water. It kind of reminded her of rotting eggs.
“That’s giplig. It won’t kill you, but I consider it to be the most dangerous of all the poisons here.”
“How can that be if it’s not lethal?”
“If this is placed on a piece of cloth and held over your mouth and nose for a mere five seconds, you’ll fall asleep.”
That didn’t sound too bad. “At least I won’t be dead.”
The queen raised her eyebrows and placed her hand on Sabine’s arm. “The purpose of this one is to kidnap you. Who knows where you’ll wake up and what state you’ll be in. I’d rather die than be at the mercy of my enemy. I pray you never find yourself in that situation. It is a fate worse than death.”
Her stomach rolled with nausea.
“Are you okay?” Elsa asked.
“Maybe this isn’t a good idea,” Sabine whispered. “There are so many dangers.”
“And you don’t think we have the same dangers here?”
She looked at her mother, confused. “No. It’s safe here. We have nothing to worry about.” They didn’t even have that many sentries guarding the property.
A small smile graced the queen’s lips. “I wish that was the case, but it’s not. You’re sheltered and unaware of the dangers lurking here in your own home. An assassin can come at any one of us at any time.”
Cold fear coated Sabine’s clammy skin. “Why haven’t I been trained to use a weapon or sniff out poisons before?”
“You’ve never taken an interest. Besides, your father believes his men are loyal and will protect us. However, the only person I trust completely to keep myself alive is me. You must think the same way.”
