Chapter 31 · Untitled Chapter

"Put the case down, Marek." Rafe's voice cut through the judgment hall before the blade even left his hand.

Marek stood on the blackstone dais, the blood-seal case wedged against his ribs. Red light leaked through the iron frame.

Under Helen's breastbone, the matching key burned.

Every pulse stole another breath.

Marek smiled at the crowd. "You heard him. The exile still thinks he gives orders."

"I don't think." Rafe's fingers tightened around his sword. Blood ran over his knuckles and dripped onto the floor. "I know. Put it down."

Helen stepped closer. "Rafe, don't. The case is bait."

"I know that too."

"Then stop walking into it."

"You want me to leave it here?"

"I want you alive long enough to make Marek regret breathing."

Marek laughed. "Still pretending you care about him, Helen? That's adorable."

The chamber doors yawned open behind him. Beyond them, Veyrhold's broadcast towers glowed red. Every word spoken on the dais would reach the city before anyone could shut the signal down.

Directorate officials packed the lower platform. White judicial coats. Military black.