Harlan cupped my elbow still, urging me to stand, his deep voice grim. “You need tending.” “Wait.” I stopped him. Madeline’s first assistant stood riveted by the doors to the kitchens, staring at the headless body, white-faced and shaking. “Lise!” I spoke sharply to cut through her shock. Out of habitual obedience, she hastened to me. “Your Highness.” She wiped tears away, immediately replaced by a fresh flow. “I don’t know what to—” “People need feeding. Not here. I’ll have the Hawks take care of Madeline and clean up. Send the word round that everyone can dine in chambers if they can stomach it. Plate up what you were planning to serve. Any delicacies that can be created quickly should be sent to the High King. Can you handle that? I need you to maintain.” “My men will help clear the hall and notify everyone,” Harlan added, and I didn’t protest. Lise nodded and fled to the kitchens. Servants, mercenaries, and pages moved out, speaking to the ambassadors and courtiers and shaking them from their stunned silence.
What do You think about The Twelve Kingdoms (2015)?
