Walking outside, my mother moved with purpose, stepping aside to let me take the lead. I tilted forward respectfully, waiting as she gave her command in that cool, commanding tone only she could wear like a crown.
“Create a bubble around us—make sure no one comes in, and no one gets out during this exchange. And Klaudia,” she turned slightly, “did you ensure the small Chapel of the Moon is ready for tomorrow’s wedding?”
Klaudia, ever sharp and efficient, responded without missing a beat.
“Everything and everyone’s accounted for. The painter’s in his room with all his needs met, the chapel’s been scrubbed top to bottom, and the last-minute decorations that nearly killed me are on their way. The guards should be arriving shortly.”
We walked a little farther into the castle courtyard, the
