“There are guards and magic users out there,” I murmured, thinking aloud. “Obviously enough to subdue an escape—or so Varia thinks. But she can’t be thinking past a single person trying to break out. What about all of us? If we managed to free the other monarchs here, we’d have a force of some of the most powerful gentry in this world. The guards here couldn’t stand against that. This palace couldn’t stand against that. Plus, there’d be such a commotion that my friends in the dungeon would probably be low priority.”

I thought I detected an eager glint in Volusian’s eyes, though his face otherwise remained typically smooth. “As much as I would love nothing more than to start laying waste to this place, I must point out that if my mistress truly wishes to lift the blight, you should probably first make sure you know where the talismans are. Your conquest of Varia will be more effective if you can strip her of those.”

“I agree. Except, we have no way of finding out. I mean, they’re probably in this palace, but it’s huge! Damn. I wish you could wander freely. We need someone to scope out this facility.” My breath caught as an idea came to me. I straightened up. “Volusian! Go to Dorian’s cell right now. You have to give him this message... .”

I quickly relayed it, and Volusian vanished. I bit my lip the entire time he was gone, praying Dorian hadn’t been taken to Varia yet. Why hadn’t I thought of this sooner? If I’d missed my chance, I didn’t know what we would do. I just hoped Varia had to take a bonbon break or have her dogs’ hair restyled between sessions. Even if Volusian did make it in time, this idea was still pretty shaky.

I jumped up when Volusian reappeared. “Was he still there?”

“Yes, mistress. I relayed your message. The Oak King said he would try what you asked and idiotically asked what he wouldn’t do for you.” A distinct look of distaste crossed his features. “He also said to tell you ... that he isn’t surprised at all that you’re planning a way out. He says he has never once doubted you and has the utmost faith in whatever you do.”

I almost smiled. “Boy, relaying something that sentimental was pretty terrible for you, wasn’t it?”

Volusian didn’t respond.