“I’ll show you the oubliette,” I said and led Dragomir through the halls until we reached the right spot. I was just searching for the door in the paneled wall when I heard the sound of feet behind me. I turned to see two of Patrascue’s men bearing down on me.

“Please to come with us,” one said in atrocious French. He grabbed my arm.

“Wait,” I said trying to shake myself free. “Where are you taking me? We must save my friend first.”

But another man grabbed my other arm and I was swept along the corridor at a great pace.

“Wait a minute. Slow down and listen to me,” I shouted but to no avail. The third man went ahead and flung open a door. I was borne inside and came upon a tableau. The king of Romania and Siegfried were sitting in high-backed chairs on one side of the fireplace. The king of Bulgaria, Nicholas and Anton sat on the other. In front of them stood Darcy, his arms being held by two policemen. And beside him stood Patrascue.

Chapter 31

Chapter 31

Bran Castle
Saturday, November 19

As I was thrust into the room, the tableau moved and they all turned to stare at me in horror.

“What is the meaning of this?” the king demanded, rising to his feet. “My dear, what has happened to you?”

“She was obviously attempting to flee and she was caught by my men,” Patrascue said before I could answer. “Now we have apprehended both the suspects. The case is complete. You can proceed with your wedding with confidence and serenity.”

“What are you talking about?” I demanded.

Darcy gave me a long look that warned me not to say too much. “This idiot has told Their Majesties that Pirin was poisoned, and what’s more, he has got it into his head that you and I were paid to come and carry out the murder.”

“It is too obvious for someone of my experience and talent,” Patrascue said. “Mr. O’Mara thought he would cleverly pretend to drive away with the body before I had a chance to examine it. I expect he has tried to hide the evidence. And Lady Georgiana denies that she hid the vial of poison in the trunk in her room. But they cannot fool Patrascue. I ask myself, why are they really here? Why should she come to this wedding instead of a member of the British royal family?”

“I am a member,” I said. “The king is my cousin.”

“But why send a mere cousin to represent the English people, when the king could send one of his own children?”