“About what?” she asked.

“My son, Eldon. He is just like his uncle, Hudson. Both have an evil streak. I was blind to only see the good and to hope for the best.”

“You had no way of knowing.”

“He did this to me.” He took a shaky breath. “I want you to promise me you will help my wife and sons protect this county. I failed in my duties. Now you all must fix this for me. I am so sorry.”

“I promise.” Reid would do everything in her power to take care of the people of Axian.

“Thank you.” Henrick closed his eyes, his breaths coming out short and loud.

“Has Dexter been to see him?” Reid asked Nara.

“He has. Henrick made Dexter promise the same thing.” Nara wiped her eyes. “You better go. It’s almost time for the wedding to start.”

Nara escorted Reid and Gytha out of the room. Before closing the door, Nara lowered her voice. “I don’t know what the king has planned. Be on guard.”

“We will,” Gytha said.

Nara handed Reid a dagger. “This is mine. Slide it up your sleeve. Just in case.”

Reid nodded and took the weapon, doing as instructed.

“Good luck,” Nara whispered, then closed the door.

“I cannot believe the king would do something so dishonorable as to poison Prince Henrick,” Gytha fumed as they headed down the hallway.

“I agree.” It was one of the main reasons Reid supported the assassination of the king. Except now, she didn’t know how they would manage to pull it off.

When they reached the antechamber, they went inside, waiting while the guests took their seats in the great hall. Too concerned about Henrick, Reid didn’t dwell on the upcoming ceremony or the fact that not a single one of her family members would be there to witness the event—not even her grandparents.

Ackley slipped into the small room. “It’s time. With the exception of your father, all the dukes are here. Are you ready?”

Suddenly nervous, Reid clutched her shaking arms. “Yes.”

Ackley placed a hand on each of Reid’s shoulders, squeezing tightly. “You look beautiful.” He smirked. “Just focus on Prince Dexter and ignore the king.”

“Easier said than done.” Reid took a deep breath, releasing it slowly.

“Since a married man must walk you down the aisle—and neither your father nor your grandfather is here, and Henrick is still sick in bed—Gordon has offered to escort you. Is that okay?”

She shrugged, unable to find her voice. This was it.

“I’ll see you in there,” Gytha said as she left the room.

“Come on.” Ackley took Reid’s arm. “I’ll walk you to the doors, then Gordon will take over.” They exited the antechamber, then headed down the hallway to the front of the great hall.