His phrase, ‘stand my ground,’ echoes happily around my brain. That means he won’t marry Adair. My mouth winds into a smile. Whatever happens, at least he’ll never end up with that loser.

Lincoln stares coolly at the two Earls. “You speak of the great houses. But are they the only ones in Antrum? The Houses Gurith, Zerihun, and Alura are all loyal to the King, perhaps many more.”

I remember reading about this in a Ryder library book. Thrax live deep underground. Lands below the old world—Europe, Australasia, Africa—are all ruled by Rixa. There are five major houses and hundreds of lesser ones. All follow the King’s law but pretty much run their own show. Excitement strums in my chest. Lincoln plans to unite the lesser Houses and create one great army to fight Acca. I steal a glance at his mismatched eyes and smile. If anyone can do it, he can.

Horus points at Lincoln, the hint of a smile on his wide mouth. “You’re a crafty one, I’ll grant you. So much like Octavia.”

Lincoln nods. “We return to Antrum tomorrow. I’ll reach out to the lesser Houses the moment I return.” He gestures from Kamal to Horus. “Don’t forget why you signed this Alliance in the first place. Once Acca takes down my House, he’ll come for you next. All I’m asking for is a little time.”

Kamal frowns. “And your father supports this? Word is he bows lower to Acca each day.”

Lincoln’s upper lip curls. “Have you ever seen me bow?”

Kamal steps to the Prince’s side. “No, my Prince. Never.”

“Nor will you.” Lincoln’s gaze shifts between the Earls. “We leave for Antrum tomorrow. There’s much work to do. If you’ll excuse me.” He motions to the exit.

The Earls pause, share a long look, and then nod. Lincoln opens the door. He’s only a few inches away from me now, but so are the Earls.

Yipes.

Kamal steps toward the exit; then he stops at the threshold. My heart thuds so loud, I’m sure they can hear it. “I’ll give you a month. I can risk no more with Acca.”

The desperate look in Kamal’s eyes sets my nerves on edge. The way everyone talks about Acca, you wouldn’t think this dumbass shot crossbow bolts at a Limus demon.

Next, Horus steps up to grip Lincoln’s arm, his features on edge. “You’re the last chance we have.”

The edges of Lincoln’s mouth round with a grin. He’s so not worried, it isn’t funny. “And have I ever failed you?”

Kamal scowls. “Not yet.” They finally leave; the door slams shut behind them. Lincoln exhales slowly.

That was close.