Cage of Deceit (Reign of Secrets Book 1) (9 page)

Entering the library, she found it gloriously empty. She headed straight to the back wall where the private alcoves were located. The one on the end—the one she always used—still had its curtains drawn shut, so she flung them open and found the table stacked with books, just as she’d left it. Sliding onto the cushioned bench, she noticed two additional books about wooden jewelry. The librarian must have left them for her. She peeled back one of the covers and flipped through the pages, looking for some clue about the wooden ring she’d received.

“Princess,” a gruff voice said.

“What?” Allyssa snapped. Chiding herself for her nasty tone, she said, “I’m sorry.” Schooling her face into a mask of calm, she turned to whoever had interrupted her thoughts. “Yes?” she regally asked. 

Jarvik stood there, staring at her. “I’d like to have a word with you.”

Allyssa froze. What did the squire want with her? Perhaps he came to reprimand her for dismissing the prince so easily the other day. She hadn’t spoken with Jarvik alone since the ball. Taking a deep breath, she prayed she could remain calm and not lose her temper. She motioned to the bench on the other side of the table, inviting him to join her.

He sat down and peered at the books lying on the table. “What are you reading?”

Slamming the book shut, she placed it on the bench next to her. “None of your business,” she answered.

His eyes narrowed. “You know, if you and Prince Odar marry, you and I will be working together quite often.”

Interesting choice of words. Not when she and the prince married, but if. 

“I would prefer to work closely with the prince, not his lackey.” She folded her arms and leaned back against the wall, awaiting his response.

“I don’t care what you prefer,” Jarvik said, contempt in his voice. “The fact of the matter is, our kingdoms face war with Russek. We must do things we might not want to, in order to ensure the safety of our subjects.” He leaned forward on the table, as if challenging her to disagree with him.

“What is it you came here to discuss?” she asked, ready to be rid of the surly man.

“Prince Odar would like you to join him for a private dinner tonight.”

She sat there, staring at Jarvik, not sure how to respond. There was no way she was going to sit through an entire meal all alone with the prince, at least not until she absolutely had to.

“Can we be frank with one another?” Jarvik asked, his eyes darkening.

“I thought we already were.” Around the squire, she found she didn’t have to watch her words like she did with members of her court. 

Jarvik glanced at her guards, who were far enough away they couldn’t hear. “Do you already have a lover?” he questioned.

Her eyes widened and her mouth dropped open. A lover? “Why?” she demanded. He had no right to ask her such a thing.

“Prince Odar is my primary concern,” he said, his voice low. “If you are in love with another man, he has a right to know before he enters into a marriage contract with you.”

Unable to help it, Allyssa started laughing at the absurdity of the conversation.

“This isn’t funny,” Jarvik spat.

“No, it’s not,” she said, becoming serious. “It is ridiculous. And not that it’s any of your business, but no, I do not have a lover.”

“Then why aren’t you interested in the prince?” he asked, scratching his head.

Leaning forward to invade his personal space, she said, “I’m going to rule an empire. I need more than a pretty face by my side. I want a man who’s intelligent and determined. Unless the prince can prove that to me, I have no reason to be interested in him. I want you to leave before I have my guards drag you out. I’m done with you.”

He abruptly stood. “Trust me, the feeling is quite mutual.”

She waved Marek over. “The squire was just leaving,” she said. “Please help him find his way out of the library.”

Marek reached for Jarvik, but the squire brushed him off. “I don’t need to be escorted, thank you very much.” He stormed away.

***

As much as Allyssa loved her father, spending time with him, and training together, she absolutely despised these runs. When Darmik insisted she go with him, it meant she got no sleep at all since he required they leave before sunrise.

Allyssa was already drenched in sweat and could barely breathe even though they’d only gone five miles. Unfortunately, Darmik was just getting warmed up. Blimey. At least he let her run in pants. Both of them had on the training outfits worn by their soldiers. She’d even braided her hair and wrapped it around her head so if anyone saw her from afar, they would never know she was the princess.

“Let’s pick up the pace,” Darmik said. “You’re a bit slow today.”

Blasted. She didn’t think she could run any faster. Her father took off and she sprinted harder, trying not to fall too far behind him.

They ran their usual route, the royal guards trailing them as they headed around the lake and entered the small forest to the east of the castle. This was her favorite part and the only reason she hadn’t been moaning and complaining out loud. Allyssa loved running between the towering trees and over the moss-covered flooring. It was so different from Emperor’s City which was where the royal family spent at least one season each year. Here in the forest, she understood why her mother had insisted they establish Lakeside as their primary residence.

“You seem rather distracted,” Darmik commented, slowing his pace to run alongside her. He wasn’t even winded, whereas she felt as if her lungs were on fire even though it was freezing out. The sun hadn’t crested the mountains yet, and a dull gray blanketed the land. “Anything you want to tell me?” Darmik asked between breaths.

She shook her head, unable to answer. Darmik started running faster. Was he upset over something she’d done? Did he suspect she had snuck out of the castle? Did he want her to confide in him about Prince Odar?

A dull clanging sound echoed through the forest. Since her father didn’t flinch, he must know where the sounds were coming from. Darmik slowed his pace, allowing Allyssa to catch sight of the Fren soldiers sparring with one another up ahead.

Now that she was paying closer attention to her surroundings, Allyssa realized her father had taken her slightly off their usual trail. “Do they do this every day?” she asked, glancing at Darmik as they jogged closer to the men. He nodded. There had to be a good fifty soldiers out there, practicing sword work with one another.

“Good,” one of the men yelled. “Let’s try that exercise again, only faster.”

She recognized the voice as Jarvik’s. Why was the squire leading these men? Perhaps their captain had stayed behind in Fren.

Allyssa and Darmik slowed to a stop. The princess bent over, resting her hands on her thighs, breathing heavily as she watched Jarvik. The squire started running through the drill with another soldier. When they turned, she realized it was the prince. Prince Odar swung his sword, clashing it against Jarvik’s. With a flick of his wrist, the squire disarmed the prince. Jarvik placed his hand on the prince’s shoulder, speaking to him. The prince nodded.

“One would think the prince of a large kingdom would be a better swordsman,” Allyssa whispered so only her father could hear. Their squad of soldiers stood about fifteen feet behind them.

“I agree. It’s unusual for a squire to lead the exercises,” Darmik commented. “At least Prince Odar is learning now and taking an interest in his army. That’s a good sign.”

“I’m surprised you approve of him as a son-in-law.”

Darmik’s eyes sliced over to hers. “Why do you say that?”

“Father,” Allyssa said, pointing at the prince. “He’s… he’s … .” She wanted to say a daft cow, but she knew her father wouldn’t approve of such language. “I just expected you to choose someone more like Marek.”

Darmik folded his arms. “Honestly, I’d prefer if you married someone with a little more experience in commanding an army rather than a court. However, an alliance between our kingdoms is beneficial right now. I’ve done extensive research on Odar. All my reports indicate he is intelligent—even if we don’t see it.”

She was about to argue when her father put his hand on her arm and said, “You, of all people, should understand that people can show the world one side of them, and keep another side hidden. I say we give him time and become better acquainted with him.” Darmik started jogging again. “Let’s go,” he called over his shoulder.

She ran after him as he led the way around the open area where the soldiers were practicing. All of them appeared to be good fighters—lethal and proficient with their moves. It was rather impressive to watch. 

Allyssa tried not to look back at Prince Odar or Jarvik, but she felt them watching her as she ran past. Did they know it was her? Did they recognize Darmik? Or did they assume they were simply a squad of Emperion soldiers out for a run? 

She found herself able to sprint a little faster than before. Maybe the short break she’d taken had been enough to rest her lungs and muscles, allowing additional energy, or maybe it was the fact that she had an audience. 

That night, Allyssa considered not sneaking out of the castle. She was exhausted from not sleeping last night and then running ten miles in the morning. However, the idea of not seeing Grevik was enough to change her mind. Besides, she’d only be able to do this a little while longer, and then Grevik would be a City Guard and she would be married.

As she traveled along the dirt path that led from the castle to the servants’ exit in the wall, she considered—not for the first time—asking Marek to accompany her on her nightly escapades. But he would never condone such activity, let alone be a part of it. Neco would have his son’s head for allowing her to chase criminals.

The sentries manning the gate let her pass, thinking she was a worker. She exited the castle grounds and entered the city. Heading down the street, she had an eerie sensation that she was being followed. Glancing back, she didn’t see anyone behind her. It was late at night, but there were still a few people out roaming the streets. Pulling her plain, black cloak tighter, she went to the apartment building where Grevik lived. Climbing the ladder, she shoved the window open and crawled into his dark bedroom.

He was on his cot sleeping. Barmy. Picking up one of his boots lying on the ground, she chucked it at him. “Wake up.”

“Stop assaulting me,” he moaned. “I’m awake.” He sat up, fully dressed, and pulled on his boots.

“I was thinking we could head over to the river district tonight,” Allyssa said, leaning against the window ledge.

“Sure,” he said, standing and stretching.

“I can’t believe you were sleeping,” she chided him.

“I seem to remember a certain night not that long ago where I sat in a tavern all night long and you never showed up. Now, why was that?”

“Shut up,” she mumbled, knowing she’d fallen asleep that night.

He chuckled and climbed out of the window. When he was out of sight, Allyssa crept out of his room and down the hallway. She placed a bag of coins in the pocket of his mother’s cloak, which was hanging on the wall, just as she always did every time she visited Grevik’s apartment. She hurried and went back into his room, climbing down the ladder after him.

On their way to the wealthy river district, they passed a group of soldiers on patrol. “What’s going on?” Allyssa asked. The soldiers of the army were stationed in the barracks on the castle grounds. They only came into the city when the royal family did. Otherwise, designated City Guards were responsible for maintaining law and order here.

Grevik shrugged. “Not sure. There are rumors though.”

“There are always rumors.”

“Some say Russek spies have been spotted in Emperion. Others say Russek is mounting its army, preparing to go through Fia to enter Emperion.”

Allyssa wondered how accurate these rumors were. If Russek truly was ready to invade, her marriage to Prince Odar needed to take place as soon as possible so they could merge Emperion’s army with Fren’s. 

“Want to tell me why we’re in this district tonight?” Grevik asked, interrupting her thoughts.

She wanted to come here to investigate, not catch criminals. “I’ve seen maps showing that this river travels straight through Krosek to the Great Ocean.”

“It’s not something I studied in school.” He glanced sidelong at her, waiting for an explanation.

The river ran past the eastern portion of Lakeside. The homes along the water were the wealthiest homes in the city. Grevik and Allyssa rarely came here since there was practically no crime. However, she wanted to see the river for herself. Reaching the end of the street, they came to a small park bordering the water. Silently, the two friends walked through the park. Allyssa stood at the edge of the bank, watching the water rush by. In the books she’d read, the river originated in the north, somewhere in the mountains in Romek, which bordered Fia.

Allyssa jumped and spun around, certain that someone was standing behind her. No one was there. “Let’s go,” she whispered.

“Are you kidding? We just got here,” Grevik complained.

“I think we’re being followed,” she hissed. She took his arm and pulled him back through the park. Allyssa’s skin prickled, yet she didn’t see anyone hiding in the shadows.

They hurried from the wealthy district and went toward the center of town where they usually concentrated their efforts. However, no matter how fast they walked, she still felt someone following them. “First tavern you see,” she said, “duck inside.”

Grevik seized her arm, and they went down a narrow street. Since no one was around, they started running until they reached the next street, where they encountered a dozen or so people. Slowing so they wouldn’t attract unwanted attention, they entered the closest tavern. 

It was packed, every table taken. The smell of ale and stale bread wafted through the air. Allyssa could barely breathe from so many bodies packed so closely together. The sounds and smells made her head swim. She kept glancing to the door, watching to see if anyone entered after them. No one did.

Grevik briefly spoke with a barmaid and then turned to Allyssa. “There’s another exit we can use in the back.”

She nodded and followed him through the throngs of people. They went down a dimly lit hallway and came to a door that was bolted shut. Grevik reached back and took her hand. He opened the door and fresh, cool air greeted them as they stepped onto the dark street.

When they came to the corner, Grevik peered around the edge of the building. “I don’t see anything suspicious,” he said. “What now?”

Exhaustion consumed her, and she wanted nothing more than to go to sleep. “Let’s just go home.”

Grevik’s apartment was on the way to the castle, so they continued walking together. She still had an eerie sensation that someone was watching her. She asked Grevik if he noticed anything amiss, but he didn’t.

“Let me walk you home,” he offered. 

“That’s okay. I’ll be fine.”

“I know you don’t want your parents to meet me for whatever reason, but at least let me walk you to your building.”

She had told him she lived in a small place on the western side of the city in an average neighborhood. He had even walked her there a few times, where he would bid her farewell. As soon as he was out of sight, she would sneak away and return to the castle. However, if she did that tonight, she would have to backtrack a solid mile in order to go home, and that was something she didn’t want to do, not with the distinct feeling she was being followed. If her father and Marek had drilled one thing into her head, it was to trust her instincts.

“If you don’t mind, I’ll just go home with you. I’ll only stay until I’m certain it’s safe.”

“Are you sure?” he asked, yawning. “I don’t mind walking you home.”

“But then who would walk you home?” she countered.

He chuckled. “And that’s why I love you.”

A few minutes later, she climbed through Grevik’s window and into his bedroom. It was small—just a cot and a chest of drawers.

“Since you’re such a pansy,” Grevik teased, “you can have my bed. I’ll take the ground.”

Too exhausted to argue, she yanked off her boots and lay on top of his blankets, not wanting to get too comfortable and fall asleep. She just needed to rest for a few minutes.

***

“Wake up,” a female voice gently said.

Allyssa peeled her eyelids open. She wasn’t in her bedchamber. Blimey. She jumped out of bed, nearly stepping on Grevik.

“What’s wrong?” he asked, sitting up and rubbing his eyes. “My mum can walk you home and explain to your parents what happened. I’m sure they’ll understand.”

What was Allyssa going to do? The sun was cresting over the rise, which meant it was nearly breakfast time. How would she sneak onto the castle grounds and reach her bedchamber now? Even if she went in through the servants’ entrance, she couldn’t go to the laundry room and climb back up the chute to her room. There would be too many people working at this hour. She’d never made this mistake before.

Standing there, she rubbed her temples. There had to be a way out of this. A horrible thought occurred to her—what if someone already noticed she wasn’t in her bedchamber? What would they do? Guards were posted outside her room at all times. If Mayra or Madelin discovered her missing, an alarm would be raised. Everyone would assume she’d been kidnapped.

“Is everything all right, dear?” Grevik’s mother asked.

“Yes,” Allyssa assured her.

“Would you like me to take you home?” she asked.

“No, that won’t be necessary.”

“You better be on your way if you want to make it to school on time,” she said.

After putting on her cloak and pulling the hood up, Allyssa descended the ladder and jumped onto the street, Grevik right behind her. “I don’t need your help,” she told him.

He didn’t respond. Instead, he stayed by her side. The streets were starting to become crowded with people heading to work. She walked as fast as she could, her stomach queasy with fear. She was going to be in so much trouble.

“You’re not headed toward your home, and you’re not going in the direction of any school I know of. So tell me, Lilly, where are you running off to, and why do you look like you’re going to be sick?” Grevik demanded, his voice deep.

“I don’t know what to do,” she finally admitted, trying not to cry.

“I know,” he said plainly. “Let me help.”

Her parents were going to be furious, Marek would lose his position as the head of her personal guard, and she’d never be able to step foot out of the castle again. They walked in silence for several moments, a plan beginning to form in her mind.

“Why are we headed toward the castle?” Grevik asked when they were a block away from it.

“I … work there,” Allyssa answered, pulling Grevik into an alcove of a building. Not a lie, but not exactly the truth either. “I need you to go to the servants’ entrance located on the east side of the castle wall. Tell the guards you have an urgent message for Mayra.” She hesitated, removing the plain silver ring she wore. On the inside, her full name and the royal family’s crest were inscribed. It was made in case she ever needed to prove her identity, and very few people even knew of its existence. Wrapping the ring in a handkerchief, she handed it to Grevik. “Say you have a gift for her. Once she comes out to the gate, show her this, and bring her here.”

His eyes narrowed, but he didn’t question her further. He took the handkerchief with the ring and left.

Allyssa slumped against the door in the alcove, hoping Mayra recognized the ring and came. It was early enough that there was a chance Allyssa could make it back into her room with Mayra’s help. She started pacing, trying to think of the best way for Mayra to sneak her in.

What was taking Grevik so long? What if Mayra didn’t bother to read the inscription in the ring? What if she thought Grevik had kidnapped her? What if Mayra called the soldiers to arrest him?

She slouched against the door again, sweating beyond belief. It had been foolish of her to fall asleep like she did. She deserved to be caught for her own stupidity. She heard the faint sound of footsteps running toward her. Sticking her head out of the alcove, she saw Grevik with Mayra and Marek quickly approaching. She stayed where she was so they wouldn’t cause a scene. Fear hit her like a ton of stones. What if Marek told her parents what happened? She’d have to find a way to convince him to keep his mouth shut.

Mayra burst into the alcove, wrapping Allyssa in a hug. “Are you okay? I was so worried when this guy showed me your ring.”

“I’m fine. Why did you bring your brother?”

“In case you needed him,” Mayra answered.

“No one knows who I am out here,” Allyssa whispered to her friend. “I want to keep it that way.”

Marek yanked Allyssa out of his sister’s grip. “What’s going on?” he demanded. He had on plain brown pants and a nondescript tunic, blending in with the city folk. “Did he kidnap you?” He pointed to Grevik. “Or is there something going on between the two of you?” He raised his eyebrows, waiting for an explanation that she had no intention of giving him right now.

“I’d really like to know what’s going on,” Grevik quietly said, his hands resting on his hips.

“Now is not the time,” she said, pulling free from Marek. “I need to sneak inside before anyone realizes I’m gone.”