Ahce's mind was already racing. She needed to fortify her position, prepare her defenses, and make alliances she had previously avoided. Reichardt would have to be at her side, even as he struggled with the remnants of Richard's consciousness and the tainted blood core.
Speaking of Reichardt—he had been waiting in the private chamber, pacing, concern etched into every line of his body. When she returned, he noticed immediately the subtle shimmer of energy around her, the slight burn of exertion across her skin.
"You encountered him," Reichardt said, voice low, a mixture of relief and tension.
Ahce nodded. "Yes. The Queen's agent. He followed me."
Reichardt's jaw clenched. "Did he—did he know? Could he sense your abilities?"
She met his gaze evenly. "Yes. And he will report it. The Queen will know, sooner or later. But I controlled it. I was careful."
