”—Valeriethought of a lie—“studied it for several years.”
“You use the intonation of the peasants. Is that taught in your books?”
“I knew an Eyllwe woman who taught it to me.”
“A slave of yours?” Her tone sharpened, and Chaol flicked his eyes toward them.
“No,” Valeriesaid hurriedly. “I don’t believe in keeping slaves.” Something twisted in her gut at the thought of all those slaves she’d left behind in Rieo, all those people doomed to suffer until they died. Just because she’d left Rieo didn’t mean Rieo had ceased to be.
Nehemia’s voice was soft. “Then you are very unlike your court companions.”
Valeriecould only manage a nod to the princess as they turned their attention to the hall ahead. Servants darted past, eyes wide when they beheld the princess and her guards. After a moment
