“Plans to announce their partnership,” said Drock. “I’m… I’m so sorry. For you and for all of us.”

Maiven seemed skeptical. “But they can’t officially take over just by announcing that,” she said.

“I know,” said Drock. “But I also overheard the Revinir say something about how the other black-eyed people will be coming soon. I think she must know she needs them to vote for a leader.”

“Maybe Thisbe is planning to convince us to vote her into the position of leadership,” said Maiven. She winced. She still had a hard time believing her beloved granddaughter had taken such a sharp turn like this. But the evidence was growing that Thisbe wasn’t as innocent as everyone had thought her to be. Perhaps her time in the catacombs had taken a much deeper toll on her psyche than anyone had realized.

Rohan stared out toward the castle, wishing only to have a glance at Thisbe. He’d be able to tell from her eyes if she was truly with the Revinir. All signs pointed to it, but there was still a part of him that believed something else was factoring into this equation. He wondered if Seth had been onto something when he’d guessed that Fifer and Thisbe were plotting together. It still didn’t make sense, though.

“I need to keep moving,” Drock said as other dragons got a bit too close for comfort. “Sometimes the two of them come out on the balcony at this time of night.” The queen and Rohan ducked back down as Drock continued on his aimless flight.

“Let’s float closer,” Rohan directed Quince.

“Closer to what?” asked the ghost dragon, who seemed to have forgotten his purpose for the moment.

“To the castle,” Rohan said.

“And… where is that?” asked the ghost dragon.

“It’s that building,” said Rohan, trying to be patient. “Go toward that big balcony.”

Quince spied the area and flew toward it.

“Nice and slow,” Rohan said. “Remember, we’re being stealthy.”

“Oh,” said Quince. “I’m glad you told me.”

Rohan and Maiven exchanged a worried glance. As they drew close to the ballroom balcony, the doors swung open. The Revinir ducked her head and stepped out. Right behind her was Thisbe.

“Don’t speak to them!” Rohan said in a harsh whisper to Quince. He was worried about everything now that they were within earshot of the two. He looked at Maiven. “Stay low,” he reminded her.

“You too,” she whispered.

Rohan lifted his head an inch, trying to catch the slightest glimpse of Thisbe without being seen.

“My, the fog is thick tonight,” said the Revinir. “You know the old saying? A change in the weather brings plans together.”