The Empress scowled at the Dowager Empress. “What do you say, Mother Highness? Are any of these foul accusations true?”
Again, Narcissa Thanos laughed, the low, sultry voice carrying over the crowd. “I've already admitted to these deeds, Daughter. You act as if you don't believe me. What would I gain by denying I did them?”
“Utterly wretched and despicable acts, Mother. Of course I believe you did them. I just can't believe you'd admit to them so readily. What am I supposed to do with that, Mother?”
“Who am I to tell you, Daughter? You're the Empress. I've always said you'd be on your own one day. It's happening a bit sooner than you expected.” Narcissa glanced toward Lydia. “Aren't you going to greet your half-sister, your Highness?”
Lydia and Hecuba both stared at the woman as if she
