Navigating the constantly shifting political alliances of Faerie would be difficult enough if Cardan were easy to control.
Its also exciting to explore more of Faerie.
Before the murdering began.
Credit: Sharona Jacobs
Before I took Cardan prisoner at knifepoint.
I wonder if he is thinking of it when he spins me around the Milkwood.
I let him steer me through steps I doubtless would have fumbled.
Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
My heart is racing and my skin is slicked with sweat.
Papery moths fly above our heads, circling up as though tragically drawn to the light of the stars.
Whatever you do to me, I say, too angry to stay quiet.
I can do worse to you.
Oh, he says, fingers tight on mine.
Do not think I forget that for a moment.
Youd never allow it.
You believe I planned your humiliation?
That sounds like work.
I just care that you enjoyed it.
And why shouldnt I delight to see you squirm?
You tricked me, Cardan says.
You played me for a fool and now I am the King of Fools.
TheHighKing of Fools, I say, sneer in my voice.
I inhale the scent of him moss and oak wood and leather.
I stare at his treacherous mouth and imagine it on me.
Everything about this is wrong.
Around us, the revel is resuming.
Go back to the palace, Cardan had said and Id ignored the warning.
I think of Lockes expression while Cardan spoke, the eagerness in his face.
It wasnt me he was watching.
I wonder for the first time if my humiliation was incidental, the bait to his hook.
Tell us what you think of our Lady.
I pull away from him.
I am overcome, your Majesty.
I would like your permission to withdraw.
For a moment, I wonder what I will do if Cardan denies me permission.
I have issued many commands, but none about sparing my feelings.
You are free to depart or stay, as you like, Cardan says magnanimously.
The Queen of Mirth is welcome wheresoever she goes.
My cheeks are hot, my face is burning.
At the edge of the Milkwood, I see waves beating against the black rocks.
Then I notice shapes on the sand, as though shadows were moving on their own.
Selkies, rising from the sea.
A score, at least.
They cast off their sleek seal skins and raise silver blades.
The Undersea has come to the Hunters Moon Revel.
