‘Even when it comes to the darkness in Eriobis’ otherwise perfect past?’

Araxia’s brows pulled together and lines of frustration gathered around her mouth.

‘Where is this coming from?’

Sapphire levelled her gaze at the queen before looking away.

‘I value all of our citizens, even those that may not agree with me. I believe it’s important to send reminders to the kingdom in case it slips their mind. In case it slips your mind.’

Kip cleared his throat, breaking the tension between the pair. Araxia’s face cleared before she returned to her throne. The king and queen looked at Sapphire.

‘We offer you our word, Sapphire. The witches are protected under the covenant of the law,’ Kip finally said.

‘And if the law isn’t enough? What will you do then?’

Araxia took a deep breath.

‘Then we offer action. Responsibility on both our heads, and on the heads of those who breach the contract.’

‘And what for the coven? What will you do if they lose one of their own?’

Araxia stared at her for a few seconds like she was trying to uncover the meaning behind Sapphire’s passionate display.

‘Sapphire, is there something else you’d like to say? Something you’re not telling us?’

She sat there, staring at the pair before her, daring herself to implode. To burn the castle to the ground. To threaten them. To let them know that she knew everything they had done.

But she didn’t. Instead, she shook her head.

‘Swear the Elders’ oath that a plan is in place.’ She almost laughed, asking them to swear by the Gods she did not believe in. But she wanted to push them.

‘We are your parents.’ Kip looked baffled. ‘Is our word not enough?’

Sapphire looked them dead in the eye and smiled sweetly.

‘Not when it comes to something so important.’

‘Alert the council they may rejoin us as you leave. You have the oath. Now, see yourself out.’

She did not bow as she left.

She returned to her room to consider her next move, but could not focus. So, instead, she marvelled at the feeling of wind leaving her fingertips.

CHAPTER THIRTY-EIGHT

Sapphire spent her nights learning what true fear felt like. Ashes was before her, and Sapphire was forced to watch as she was tortured at the hands of people she did not recognize. Their knives cut her arms, their elemental magic filled her lungs with water and burned her skin. And she cried out for Sapphire, begging her to keep her word.

Begging for her help. Those who kept her captive laughed as her cries rang out; Sapphire remained rooted on the spot, two pairs of hands holding her back. She turned around to find Araxia and Kip behind her, smiling as they watched the scene unfold.

Do you love her?