Rhydian;
The atmosphere in Queen Cassia's chamber is calm. Too calm. It's like an imitation of the peace that has taken over Gravemaw for weeks now.
A deceptive calmness that irks me. It's the very reason I haven't left Gravemaw. I can sense trouble brewing, and I can not bear to leave her alone to face it.
Because nothing about this kingdom, or the situation currently surrounding it, is light.
I stand near the centre of the room, with my arms folded behind my back, and my gaze fixed on the polished floor rather than on her.
I have had my fill of the deception and doubt, and I have come to bear my mind.
I didn't come alone.
Across from me stands my mother with her usual rigid composure. Queen Cassia had offered us seats, but we chose to stand. What we came here to say demands that urgency.
"You've both been unusually persistent," She says, with her voice delicate, like warm milk, and I look up at her through my lashes.
