Astrid sat looking at her reflection in the mirror. Red-rimmed eyes stared accusingly back at her. How could she have been so stupid, so naive? She had handed power to people whose only interest was themselves. They hadn’t served her father because they loved him; they had done so because they feared him. But they had no fear of her. Now her foolish naivety had condemned her brother to death.

She looked across at the man standing guard at her door and then back to the mirror. What she saw there almost made her cry out in surprise.

The face in the glass was no longer her own. Instead, a beautiful, older woman stared back at her. The face had a finger to its pursed lips, indicating the young queen should remain quiet.

My apologies for startling you, Queen Astrid, the woman said. Her mouth did not move, but Astrid could hear her voice inside her head.

She glanced towards the door again.

Do not worry about your sentinel. He is not privy to my words. They are for you alone. Unfortunately, I am too weak to communicate with you in this manner for long. You must trust me and listen.

Astrid studied that face for a moment, then gave a tiny nod.

My name is Fleya. I have travelled here to Stromgard from my home east of the Maiden’s Fingers with my nephew Lannigon Gudbrandr. We had hoped to speak with you and your brother, but it appears the gods have conspired against us. Know this, Astrid: your brother is not your father’s murderer. That deed was committed by someone known to you, someone who is in league with a powerful sorcerer who escaped death until he could find a new physical body to inhabit. A body like Kelewulf’s.

Astrid’s hand flew up to her mouth as she let out a strangled cry, the sound drawing the attention of the guard, who looked round at her suspiciously. Dropping her head into her hands, she pretended to weep until she was certain he’d turned away again.

That calm voice spoke again.

Your cousin has a dark heart, Astrid, and the lich has made it darker still. Together, they want to bring this world into chaos and will use anything and anyone to achieve that aim.

Do not speak, Fleya said as the girl made to do so. I need to find Kelewulf. With the aid of this lich, he has the power to bring about the end of this world and the freedom of the people in it. I think your brother knows where he can be found.

The woman paused, making sure she had the girl’s full attention.

Is Brant Skifrmunn still the greatest sword in Stromgard?

Astrid gave a tiny nod of her head.

And is Brant still in love with his childhood sweetheart, Princess Astrid?

The young queen’s brow furrowed as the witch quickly explained her desperate plan …

18