“I’ve already said too much,” she muttered.
Without another word, she grabbed her bucket and cloth, walking briskly to the door.
“Elise, walt-”
The door slammed shut behind her, leaving me standing there, my heart racing.
2/8
After a quick shower, I emerged from the bathing chamber feeling more awake but no less rattled. The memory of Elise’s words lingered, heavy in my mind.
Tenth. Dead like the others.
I couldn’t shake the feeling that I’d stepped into something far bigger–and far darker–than I’d imagined.
Knox was waiting for me when I stepped into the sitting area, his arms crossed as he leaned against the bookshelf.
“Finally,” he said, straightening. “Thought I’d have to drag you out myself.”
“What’s this all about?” I asked, wrapping the robe tighter around me.
He raised an eyebrow. “You really don’t know, do you?”
“Know what?”
He sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. “The king has decided you need training.”
“Training?” I echoed, confused.
“Self–defense, survival, basic combat,” Knox clarified. “You’re the Luna, at least in title. That means you need to know how to
protect yourself.”
I stared at him, trying to process the information. “And whose idea was this?”
Knox smirked. “Alaric’s, of course.”
“Of course,” I muttered.
“Surprised?” he asked, tilting his head.
“Very,” I admitted.
Knox shrugged. “Don’t be. He may not trust you, but he’s not stupid. If you’re going to be here, you might as well be useful.”
I frowned, unsure if I should feel insulted or relieved. “And you’re the one training me?”
“Lucky you,” Knox said, his tone dripping with sarcasm.
“Why not someone else?”
“Because,” he said, giving me a pointed look, “this is a job for someone who can keep an eye on you while teaching you not to die.
Besides, I am the best warrior there is.”
His bluntness made me bristle, but I bit back a retort, only rolling my eyes.
“Get dressed,” Knox said, turning toward the door. “We start in an hour.”
3/0
He didn’t wait for a reply, leaving me alone once again.
I sat down heavily on the edge of the bed, staring at the writing on the doorframe. Beware the monster at night.
Tenth to die.
Whatever lay ahead, I knew one thing for certain: this palace held far more secrets than I’d bargained for.
I was stupid to think it was going to be easy.
In this life, nothing ever comes easy.
