NINE
Warmth creeps along my cheeks. My jaw drops while I drag my gaze back and forth from the king to Adom’s sad visage.
Adom…
Damn him!
I pull the dress up around my shoulders and hook it with nimble fingers. The tear is small, and I don’t think anyone will notice it, but I still feel guilty because Rhydian gave it to me.
“You’re Fire Breather?”
The king’s eyes narrow. “I’m not going to eat you.”
A tide of sickness washes over me. “So Adom isn’t trying to connect with the other dragon changelings to work against you?”
“I’ve worked for King Siles ever since he came into power.” Adom steeples his fingers. “He ordered me to take control of the dragon herd. That’s why I came back after Ona killed the dragons who protected me. That’s why I challenged him.”
“You acted under orders. Not
