The Crown of Gilded Bones (Blood and..

One of the Atlantians stepped forward as we reached
the top of the steps. It was Emil, his auburn hair redder in
the torchlight as his gaze slid from Casteel to me. His
nostrils flared as his throat worked on a swallow. His
handsome face paled slightly as he clasped the hilt of his
sword, bowing slightly at the waist. “I am relieved to see
you here, Your Highness.”
I gave a small jerk. The use of the formal title caught me
a little off guard, and it took me a moment to remember
that as Casteel’s wife, that was my formal title. It had
nothing to do with the whole issue with the Crown. “As am
I,” I said, smiling. Another ripple of shock came from Emil as
he looked at me as if he couldn’t quite believe I was
standing there. Considering the state I had been in the last
time he’d seen me, I couldn’t blame him for that. “Thank
you for your help.”
The same look Naill had given me earlier when I’d
thanked him crossed the Atlantian’s face, but he inclined his
head with a nod. He turned to Casteel. “Your father is inside
and isn’t exactly thrilled.”
“I bet,” Casteel murmured.
One side of Emil’s lips curved up as Naill joined us. “And
neither are the handful of Atlantians and mortals who found
their way here, attempting to free Alastir.”
“And how did that go?” Casteel demanded.
“It was a little…bloody.” Emil’s eyes glowed in the
torchlight as he looked at his Prince. “Those who are still
alive are being kept with Alastir for your…enjoyment.”
A tight, dark smile appeared as Casteel tipped back his
head. “Has anyone else become aware that my father’s
being held here?”
“No,” Emil answered. “Your mother and the Guards of
the Crown believe he is still with you.”
“Perfect.” Casteel looked over at me. “Ready?”
I nodded.