LYRA

Kael moved immediately, positioning himself between me and the guards with his hand already going to his sword. "By whose authority?"

"The King's, Your Highness," Marcus said, his voice carrying false regret that didn't match the satisfaction in his eyes. "He's been informed that Lady Lyra has confessed to plotting your assassination again and you've been conspiring with her against the crown."

"That's a lie," Kael replied, his voice cold enough to freeze water.

"Is it?" Marcus smirked, ...