Page 78 of Of Kings and Thieves

Killian hesitated for a moment, a darkness passing over his eyes before he finally spoke. “Your situation is dire, Samara. But The Harrow believes he needs you to keep Col in line. Col would have done the right thing, anyway, but having you in captivity gives him another reason to fall in line.”

My thoughts churned as I considered Killian’s words, and a question nagged at me. “Why does Moredanea hunt half-breeds?” I said, searching his eyes for answers. “If she’s obviously part siren herself, why is she allowed to go after her own kind?”

Killian leaned back against the cold stone wall, crossing his arms over his chest. “Moredanea’s motives aren’t easy to understand,” he said, his voice low and measured. “She’s driven by something darker than most can fathom.”

“Doesn’t that make her a hypocrite?” I asked, my anger rising again. “How can she justify hunting down others like her when she’s clearly no better than any of us?”

“Samara,” he sighed, rubbing the bridge of his nose between thumb and forefinger. “There are many things in this world that don’t make sense. Moredanea’s actions, as cruel and twisted as they may be, are just one example.”

“Doesn’t anyone else see the irony in this?” I spat, my hands shaking with frustration. “Why doesn’t someone call her out on her bullshit?”

“Because she’s dangerous,” Killian said, his voice suddenly hard. “And not just because of her power or her position. There’s something about her that instills fear into the hearts of everyone who crosses her path. People would rather turn a blind eye to her hypocrisy than risk invoking her wrath.”

I shook my head.

“You must never underestimate Moredanea. She’s dangerous.”

“Is that the only reason you came here, to tell me to watch my back?” I asked, growing frustrated with his constant reminders of danger.

“No.” Killian hesitated for a moment. “I wanted to check on your welfare, and you’re not the only one I’ve been in touch with.”

“Have you spoken to Col?”

“No. Moredanea herself has placed powerful wards on the king’s rooms to prevent anyone from seeing him. But,” Killian added with a slight smile, “I’ve found a way. I’ll talk to him soon.”

“When you do, please, tell him I…” My voice cracked, and I swallowed hard. “Tell him I love him.”

Killian’s expression softened, and he uncrossed his arms. “You should tell him that yourself when you get the chance.”

I took a deep breath, willing myself not to cry in front of Killian. “Does Moredanea suspect you?”

“If she did, I wouldn’t be alive and speaking with you now.” Killian shifted on his feet, as if he wasn’t quite steady. A distant rumble of thunder rolled over the castle. “Do you know why I work with the Ironguard? Why I risk my life as a spy?”

I shook my head.

Killian paused for a moment, and then sat on the edge of the bed beside me. “I was born into darkness,” he began softly, “cast out by those who should have protected me. But I found purpose in the shadows.” A sad smile played on his lips. “I was born into a noble family. From an early age, I showed a remarkable affinity for magic, displaying a natural talent that surpassed my peers. However, this gift came with a price. When I was still a child, my powers attracted the attention of a group of dark mages who sought to exploit my potential. They abducted me, separating me from my family and subjecting me to a rigorous and harsh training regimen in Arcanfell, the academy where the Deviants study and train.”

I nodded for him to continue. I had heard rumors of Arcanfell.

“Under their tutelage, I delved into forbidden magic, learning to manipulate dark energies and harness their destructive force. In a chance encounter, I met Col, a young prince in exile. He saved my life, as you know.”

I looked up at Killian, his dark eyes revealing little but his voice tinged with warmth. Col had saved my life, and it had changed me. Not right away, but later, as I got to know him. Ultimately, he was the reason I was here, as The Harrow’s captive. But as I thought about Killian’s story, I realized I wouldn’t change a thing, if given the chance. Unless it was to bring my family with me.

Killian nodded, and an understanding passed between us.

“I recognized the opportunity to use my skills for a just cause,” he continued. “And joined the Ironguard as a spy, dedicated to overthrowing The Harrow’s corrupt regime.”

“What happened to your family?” I asked quietly.

He turned away to study the floor near his boot. “They are dead.”

My heart ached for him, and I felt a surge of empathy and understanding that bound us together in that small, cold room. His admission left me reeling, a whirlwind of conflicting emotions: sorrow, respect, and a newfound kinship that threatened to overwhelm me. My throat tightened. “That day, when—” I choked, unable to relive the scene in the Fell Marshes. He had been there for me while possibly reliving his own losses. “I’m so sorry,” I said softly.

Killian turned back to face me, and his gaze flicked to my hand resting on the bed beside him. He took it, in a brotherly sort of way, and the pain I felt radiating from him was nothing short of agony. I recognized it because it matched my own.

“Believe me, no one is sorrier than I,” Killian said, his voice heavy with hatred. “When the time comes, we’ll make sure The Harrow and his pet get exactly what they deserve. But I didn’t come this far by being rash. Promise me you’ll be careful.”

“I promise,” I whispered. “But damn it, Killian, do you think I can just stand by while they hurt him?”

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