Finally, on the second story of the University, she came across a library. It was smaller than the library in the main Keep, and the books looked older, dustier. She scanned the shelves. Half the titles she couldn’t even comprehend. She started picking and skimming at random.

She found one book on shield tithes, which told her nothing new. Another described curseworkers and the various execution methods used for such “witches.” She shuddered at the descriptions, often illustrated. She wouldn’t wish that fate on anyone, even Rozalind.

When researching curses and tithes proved unfruitful, Ren turned her attention to a different section of the library. The acolytes were responsible for all the pomp and circumstance of royalty—Blood Ceremonies to recognize relatives, coronation ceremonies for new rulers. Figuring she might be able to at least delay Rozalind’s installment as regent once her child was born, Ren delved into that stack.

She was deep into one such tome when she heard footsteps. Just another acolyte, she told herself. Pretend you don’t notice. Her heart pounded against her eardrums.

A pair of silk slippers stopped before her reading chair. A moment later, someone cleared their throat.

She didn’t look up. Panic rushed through her. Go away, she thought, desperate.

But then. “Your mother told me I’d find you in here.”

Ren’s head jerked up to find Akeylah standing over her. She opened her mouth to reply, but Akeylah shook her head.

“Not here,” she murmured, and strode from the room.

Ren trailed after her. Past several occupied rooms. Inside, acolytes swiveled in their seats to watch them. Then Ren caught the sound of other footsteps, behind them but closing in fast. Someone was in a hurry.

Akeylah paused at a corner office, and gently pushed Ren inside, before she continued down the hall alone. A moment later, the jogging person caught up to her.

“Lady Akeylah,” said someone with a deep baritone voice. “One of my men said he saw you enter here unescorted. It is not safe for you to move about the Keep without a guard.”

“I have a meeting with Acolyte Ultrea, Captain.” Akeylah’s voice was even, unharried. “It is my decision whether I require a guard. In this case, I do not. Though I wouldn’t need such protection at all if your Talons would do their job and apprehend Rozalind.”

Ren suppressed a smile. Not long ago, she couldn’t have imagined Akeylah speaking to anyone like that, let alone a Talon captain. The past few weeks had changed them all, perhaps Akeylah most of anyone.

“You are right, my lady, and I apologize for my guards’ continued failure. I’m afraid on that point, I bear worse news.”

“About Rozalind?” Akeylah’s tone sharpened.