The Crown of Gilded Bones (Blood and..

concern. It was a new experience to feel anything other
than wry amusement from Kieran. “Then what kind of
Queen would that make me?”
His jaw hardened. “The kind that stays alive.”
“And the kind not worthy of those willing to defend her,”
I snapped, struggling to remind myself that his reluctance
came from a place of worry. “Now let go of my arm.”
“Or?”
I stopped considering all his possible good intentions.
“Or I will make you.”
Kieran’s pale gaze burned brightly as he lowered his
head so we were nearly eye-to-eye. “You are already worthy
of those who protect you,” he bit out. “Which is infuriating.”
I tugged on my arm again. “I’m a little confused.”
“If you weren’t so brave, my life and Casteel’s would be
a hell of a lot easier,” he muttered, releasing my arm. “Do
not get yourself killed.”
“How about you try not to get yourself killed, huh?” I
retorted, and his brows furrowed as he stared at me. “By the
way, you and I are going to discuss this later.”
“Can’t wait,” Kieran muttered.
Another shout reached us before I could respond. I spun
toward the sound. It was closer, quickly followed by a
rumbling growl.
Without warning, lights flared across the wall, startling
me. I stepped back, bumping into Kieran. His hand landed
on my shoulder, steadying me as bright beams of lights cut
through the trees and blossom-heavy bushes.
A shadow peeled away from a tree and stepped into a
funnel of light. My entire body flashed cold. A pale, barechested
man stood before us, his face hidden behind the
familiar mask of a Descenter.
Alastir’s parting words stung my skin. You think this
ends with me? I had hoped it had, but the man across from
us was proof that what Alastir had been involved in hadn’t
ended with his death.