Chapter 30

Two more guards opened the doors to the queen’s private throne room. Her essence filled the space, even though she was seated a great distance from the door. Something about her presence overpowered the other dozen or so women who sat near her, as if their authorities combined couldn’t begin to compare with that of the queen, but Eli was glad they were here. At least, if Queen Rona tried to send him to his own execution for no reason, he’d have witnesses to the injustice, not that anyone would likely dare to interfere.

He bowed low, and she offered her ring, which he kissed, though he was certain the idea of his lips anywhere near her was almost as repulsive to her as it was to him. Nevertheless, that was custom, and she left him staring at the red and gold carpet for much longer than necessary before she finally gave him the command to rise, likely just to show him she was still in charge. He hadn’t forgotten.

When he met her eyes, he noted she