When it got around that Nathalya had snuck out of the palace somehow, the King’s anger could be felt throughout the entire grounds. Aster’s only solace was that he and Jace evaded suspicion after spending as much time as possible drinking, laughing, and chatting idly with other members of the small council.

Darreth asked them only once, during a Council meeting, if they were involved. Then, Jasline surprised him yet again by standing up for them. With his most trusted ...