Author's Note: So after a long (yes I know, very long) hiatus, here we are back to the story. I took a break for the holidays, and then got side-tracked on another project. Thankfully, this chapter was just waiting for me to have time to draft and edit it. An advanced warning- this one earns the 'M' rating, so beware. Thanks for being patient!
1/Terreille
Screams echoed in the audience room, each one louder and more desperate than the last. No one dared look away as Kerral made another slice. This time, he chose the right ring finger. The knife slid under the bitch's fingernail and flayed it in one stroke, leaving exposed the snaketooth beneath it. Blood dribbled to the floor steadily, and the witch struggled in Thaesen's grip. No doubt the pain was excruciating.
Jaemie smiled.
"Now, where were we, Lady Daenor?" she asked once she'd silenced the screaming with Craft. "I believe you were explaining why you weren't recorded with the coven as a Black Widow. Do continue."
"I…" the witch whimpered. "I didn't know what the snaketooth meant, my Queen."
"Didn't you? I find that difficult to believe."
"It's the truth, I swear."
Jaemie glanced sharply at Kerral. He understood immediately, but waited for her command. Waited eagerly at that. Such an excellent pet the Warlord made, and for that reason she didn't make him wait long.
"Warlord, I need to know Lady Daenor is telling the truth."
Kerral's eyes glittered with malicious glee. It only added to his ugliness. But Jaemie hadn't picked him for this job because he was pretty. Why waste her nicer toys on anything other than bedroom work? They rarely had the temperament to do it properly, anyway. Kerral and Thaesen did.
The witch continued to strain against Thaesen, but her eyes were riveted on Kerral. The Warlord had traded his knife for another toy. Who knew if it even had a name, but that hardly mattered. He made a big show of letting the coven see it before attending to Lady Daenor. Jaemie was gratified to hear a muffled sob.
As well you should, she thought darkly. Sneaking around in my district practicing Black Widow Craft without Valinna's sanction.
The sickening sound of bones crunching told her that her pet had begun his task in earnest. Of course, one almost couldn't hear it over the witch's agonized wailing. One finger at a time, he systematically broke every bone in her right hand. And while Jaemie would have enjoyed watching it, she was more interested in how the coven reacted to the demonstration.
Liara enjoyed the spectacle with an air of smug self-importance. Hardly surprising. After all, wasn't she the one who'd told Jaemie about the witch's secret? Could hardly contain herself long enough to get the message delivered. How better to get back at her rival?
Oh yes, Jaemie was well aware of Liara's motives for turning Daenor over to her. Apparently, the witch had been fond of using the same pleasure slaves. A petty reason to look for a way to destroy someone, really. Not that it changed the outcome at all. Far from it. Jaemie didn't care how traitors were discovered- just so long as they were delivered to her.
"Please, no," the witch begged as Kerral switched to the other hand. "I didn't know. I didn't know!"
Jaemie didn't heed the witch, still focused on the others. To her dismay, Elora looked positively bored with it all. Perhaps she'd need to think of something more intense for the next demonstration if these were becoming so routine.
Wouldn't want them to forget why she held them in the first place, or what they could face at any time. And from what Meredith had implied, any circumstances would do. Anyone was considered expendable to maintain their control of the city. That suited Jaemie just fine. She was just as content torturing witches as she had been torturing Blood males. They both screamed.
Her gaze fell upon Melanie. Judging by the witch's dismayed expression, she was more focused on the task awaiting her when this was over than the demonstration itself. Healers. If they didn't serve a purpose, Jaemie would be rid of them altogether. To her thinking, they wasted too much energy saving the most trivial things. Almost without a doubt, Melanie would probably try to rebuild Daenor's hand.
Why go through the trouble of maiming the bitch if a Healer would undo it later? She'd have to give Melanie clear instructions about what- if any- healing she was to perform. Definitely was not to touch the right hand. Or maybe she'd assign that task to the Healer's cousin, Liara. Surely one Black Widow could explain what its loss would mean to another.
One good thing about Healers, though. They understood better than anyone the extent of injury and pain inflicted during these demonstrations. Jaemie never need concern herself that Melanie would challenge her rule. Even if she thought she could survive the pain- she was the coven's Healer. If she were hurt, then who would be left to take care of her injuries? No one.
No, Melanie would not ever be an issue.
That only left Frances as the remaining puzzle in the group. She was relatively new to the court, but her credentials had cleared. Maybe the witch hadn't seen much of court life before coming here, and that's why she was so…passive. Compared to the other witches, she wasn't as practiced when handling the males in residence, and seemed surprised by commonplace practices. Hell's fire, she hadn't even heard of safframate.
So of course she'd expected this demonstration to be the stuff of nightmares for the witch. But Frances was surprisingly calm. She wasn't quite as disinterested as Elora, but her expression was far less horrified than Jaemie had expected.
Very disappointing, since she'd hoped at least one of them would have been a little unnerved. Disgusted, she decided to cut it shorter than planned. No need to waste her time if they weren't getting anything out of it.
Jaemie rose from her chair and approached the trio in the middle of the audience room. Kerral paused, eyeing her questioningly. He'd certainly expected to have much longer to play, and would likely pout all evening if she didn't give him something to occupy him. How fortunate for him that she had plans on that score. At least someone wouldn't be disappointed today.
Daenor was no longer struggling, and sagged heavily in Thaesen's hands. She was staring at the floor as her breaths came in shuddering gasps. Jaemie was careful not to step in the blood pooling at the witch's feet as she moved closer.
"Are you ready to tell me what I need to know?"
No response. Jaemie nodded at Kerral and pointed to the right hand.
"Once. Right there."
He obeyed, delivering a ruthless blow to the badly mutilated hand. The witch let out a breathless scream and jerked up.
"Now that I have your attention," she continued as if nothing happened. "What do you have to tell me, Lady Daenor?"
"I…I," she stuttered.
"Speak up, dear, or we could be at this all day. The sooner you tell me the truth the sooner we all get back to our normal lives."
"I…" tears sprang from her eyes and she bowed her head in defeat. "I knew what the snaketooth meant."
"See? Now none of us needed to go through that bloody business if you'd just said so from the beginning."
"Yes, my Queen."
Jaemie loved this next part most of all.
"Now tell me what you were plotting against the coven while you kept this secret from me."
"Oh but my Queen…I would never…"
Daenor was telling the truth. In fact, the only lie she'd given during the demonstration had been her confession a minute ago. But if Jaemie were interested in the truth, she wouldn't have arranged for any of this. Despite how naïve she was, Daenor should've known that much.
Annoyed that she didn't, Jaemie slapped the bitch. Hard. Enough that the palm of her hand burned like hot ash. She didn't mind, seeing blood drip from a split on Daenor's bottom lip.
"Never? You think I don't know what your kind is up to? What else would you be doing if not working with those scheming Dhemlans. Only a traitor and spy would hide her true caste from her Sisters."
"Noooo!" she wailed in despair. "I swear to you, I'm no spy!"
"Not a good one, I'll grant you. You got caught."
The witch was trembling violently now, all but hysterical. She tried appealing to the other witches in the coven.
"Please…you all know I'm no spy. Please assure her I'm telling the truth."
Stoic and silent, no one stepped forward to help her. As Jaemie knew no one would. She gestured to Kerral.
"Your Sisters don't seem to believe you, Lady. You see, none of them are willing to lie for your sake. Shall we hear your answer to the charges, or will I need the help of the Warlord again?"
Daenor shook her head, and several minutes passed in silence.
"We're waiting."
She was weeping uncontrollably, making it difficult to hear her answer when she finally gave one.
"I'm a spy for Dhemlan."
"Thank you, Lady Daenor. That's all I needed to hear." She turned her back to the witch and addressed the coven.
"You see a traitor before you, Sisters. One of our own, who plotted against us these months with our enemies. Let this be a lesson to you all that they can be anywhere. Not just back alley slums and the dark corners of taverns. But right here in our very midst. I swear to you all that I won't let the Dhemlans take what's ours- no matter who they send against us."
They cheered in approval; Jaemie expected no less from them. Without turning around, she gave a final command to her pets.
"I believe we're finished with Lady Daenor, Warlords. I'm sure you will be sufficiently thorough in breaking her without the need of our supervision."
2/Terreille
Daenor struggled desperately against her captors, but she was no match for them in her condition. Frances could barely watch as they hauled her out of sight. Those two animals would use the witch in ways she never wanted to imagine. And whatever was left of her when they were done would go to work in the laundry or the kitchens. If anything was left of her at all.
It was evil.
And yet I stood by and let it happen, she admitted guiltily. We all know Daenor was no spy, but we let Jaemie do this to save ourselves.
Over the past few months, the court had become a dangerous palace. More dangerous than some of the places Frances had lived in before signing on with the Queen. At least out there she never worried that a witch she called 'Sister' would label her a traitor to settle some stupid grudge. Times like this, she wished she could go back to talk herself out of coming here.
But she was stuck in this coven with no way out and no way back. May the Darkness be merciful if she ever gave Liara or Elora a reason to turn on her. If they were willing to turn on Daenor so easily, she could be next.
"The bitch got off easy," Liara muttered as soon as they'd left the audience hall.
"I dunno if I'd call that easy," her cousin countered. "That hand will never set right again."
"It's a hand, cousin. The last spy was crisped to a cinder- and that was after Kerral had cut off most of her fingers, toes, and well…you saw the rest."
"I guess so."
"You know I'm right."
The debate would end as it always ended. Melanie would back down and agree to whatever her cousin thought. If not for Liara, Frances would consider testing the Healer's true thoughts about what the Queen was doing. She suspected the witch was more like minded to her than the others. But she couldn't risk that Liara would hear of what she thought. Frances had no wish to endure the same fate as Daenor.
In truth, she was appalled that they were so quick to dismiss what they'd just seen. Ridiculous, really, to argue whether it was worse to lose a hand or fingers- or to be burnt to death. None of them were willing to talk about what really scared them. And Frances bet without a doubt the rest of them were just as scared as she was. The only way they could tell themselves that they weren't was by ignoring the obvious.
Screams ripped through the hallway, and everyone's steps faltered. For a split-second, she saw reflected in their eyes the fear they were trying too hard to hide.
Hard to pretend when the truth is ringing in your ears, she admitted with an inward shudder.
Elora recovered first, and spun on her heel- away from the screams. Everyone else followed her lead, silent. It wasn't until they'd found a room isolated enough to muffle the sound that anyone ventured to say anything.
"Well, I'd say there's not much point in hanging around here all day. We might as well go down to the market quarter and browse the artisan goods."
"They never have anything worth buying," Liara complained.
"Yeah, but it's better than this. Or did you want to stare at each other in this room all day? Not to mention tonight," Melanie added glumly. "I doubt it'll be over before morning."
Elora smirked at the Healer. "If it's a diversion you're after, why not find one of the males? I doubt you'd hear anything if he's doing his job right."
Frances laughed along with the others because she knew she had to. But on the inside, she felt sick. How could Elora make jokes or even think about sex when Daenor was…she couldn't finish the thought. How could Liara find them funny? Both of them were twisted and wrong, just like Jaemie.
I wish someone out there could fix all this. If only someone was strong enough to fight whatever is wrong with Hayll.
Silly dreams. Frances had sent those thoughts out into the Darkness as long as she could remember and they never did any good. No one ever came.
"What do you think, Frances," Melanie asked.
The witch probably thought she was being generous to include her in their discussion, but she'd rather to have bene left alone. No such luck, so she'd better think of an answer quick. She prayed to the Darkness to forgive her for what she was about to suggest.
"If you ask me, the males we've got aren't much of a thrill lately. Going to the market quarter might give us a chance to spot a few that might prove to be better sport."
Elora and Liara were immediately sold on the idea, although neither of them wanted to admit it. They would brush her off initially just to remind her that she was not equal to them. If only their pride wouldn't let them consider the suggestion at all. Then she could have the satisfaction of saying the right thing without feeling responsible for the fate of whoever might suffer for it later.
Unlike most witches in the courts, Frances had never felt it fair to torture Blood males on account of their gender. She'd seen a fair share of them who deserved death- or worse. But that had more to do with what they did rather than having a penis. Of course, that opinion was one she kept closely guarded once she arrived in Jaemie's court. She'd learned to play the part without violating everything she believed personally.
"Like we'd actually find anything acceptable there, dear," Elora scoffed condescendingly. "As Liara said- the market never has any goods worth anything."
"Besides, the better males are harder to come by ever since we lost the Rings."
"Don't even get me started on that."
"Did Jaemie ever explain what happened?"
"Not to me, cousin, that's for sure. You hear anything, Elora?"
"No. I told you before that I don't know what happened to them."
"Mother Night, I just asked a question.'
They all continued to bicker, leaving Frances to her own thoughts. In her opinion, she suspected that not even Jaemie knew what happened. One day the Rings had worked; the next, they didn't. Panic had run rampant in the days that followed, and a lot of the weaker coven members had died in the struggle to control the Blood males. Some of the stronger Warlords had escaped and no one had seen them since.
No one except her.
Frances had been running errands in the district one day when she'd run into one. She couldn't remember his name, but she knew his Jewels, and they outranked hers. The instant he recognized her, Frances thought she was as good as dead. But he'd only stared at her for a long while.
"I remember you, Lady Frances. You're in that bitch Jaemie's coven."
"Yes," she'd whispered as the basket in her hands trembled.
"You don't belong there," he'd told her. "You should get out."
"I have nowhere to go."
"Get out of there while you still can, Lady."
And then he'd melted away into the shadows. She wished she'd taken his advice and just kept running that day. Maybe she could have gotten out of Draega. Out of Hayll. For all the rumors she'd heard about Dhemlan, maybe she would have been better off trying her luck there. Now it was too late.
"Anyway," Liara cut into her thoughts. "I've changed my mind. I could use the diversion in the market quarter. Who knows, maybe we could find something suitable."
Elora shrugged noncommittally. "Fine. It's not like I have anything better to do around here, anyway.'
"Come on, ladies, let's go hunting."
Suppressing a sigh, Frances tagged along behind the others. It seemed this miserable day would never end.
3/Terreille
Meredith played with her Warlord for most of the morning and afternoon. By then, the dose of safframate had worn off and he wasn't going to be of any further use to her. Just as well. She needed to appease the crone and make progress on her grand plan.
After dinner, that is, Meredith thought with a slow grin. I believe I have to see the cook about a special meal for two special witches.
Feeling considerably cheered by the prospect of entertainment, she threw open the doors of her wardrobe and fussed over what to wear. As she looked closer, though, nearly every gown showed signs of wear. A small rip here or a blemish on the fabric there. Just enough to be noticed.
Meredith couldn't remember the last time she'd bought something new. That would change today. If Valinna was going to have her way about Terreille, she was going to make a few demands of her own. Starting with an updated wardrobe.
A slinky gold dress caught her eye at last. It didn't look too terrible, so she grabbed it off the hanger and tugged it over her head. The elastic material fit her as tightly as a second skin. Maybe a little too tight. When she turned sideways in the mirror, her belly appeared slightly pudgy. That would never do.
In a temper, Meredith yanked off the dress and threw it aside. Her blue silk sheath might be better.
It wasn't.
No matter what gown she chose, some imperfection marred her figure. The best she could do was a deep purple wrap that she'd never really liked.
And this is exactly why I need new clothes, she grumbled to herself. How can I be a Queen if I don't look the part?
This would have to do for now. Meredith had to get to the kitchen before the servants began sending food up to the dining room. She shoved her feet into a pair of shoes, used a bit of craft to smooth away the worst stray wisps of hair. At least she didn't have to touch up her make up.
I should have summoned my maid.
Too late for that. If she delayed any longer, her plans would be ruined. With one last look in the mirror, she created a sight shield for the trip to the kitchen. Added insurance that no one would discover what she was planning. Worked every time, just as it did now.
As she expected, dinner preparations were already underway when Meredith arrived in the kitchen. Several witches were bustling around doing who knew what. She called the head cook away from the hearth fire and pulled out the bottle of safframate.
"Before the meal is served, be sure a spoonful of this powder is added to two plates. Only two- do you understand me you addle-brained nag?"
The old witch merely nodded. Meredith tried not to be disgusted by the misshapen nose, sunken cheeks and shriveled lips. Or the twisted left arm. Mother Night was the woman ugly. If she wasn't the best cook in Draega, she'd be gone. But thankfully, she rarely crossed paths with her. Only at times like this.
"Those plates are special for Lady Maeren and Lady Danella. No one else is to eat from them, or I'll have your head over it."
The head cook nodded again. Satisfied, Meredith handed her the bottle and gave her one final instruction.
"And most importantly- so important your life depends on it- you are not to tell anyone about the powder or who it's meant for. Should I hear that anyone found out about it before the meal, I'll make you regret every miserable second of your life."
One final nod.
Meredith could not have been happier to escape that dank room. She recreated the sight shield and headed upstairs. Her plan was so close to unfolding; Meredith would do anything it took to ensure it wasn't spoiled.
Besides, who knows what else I might stumble across if they don't know I'm here.
Sadly, nothing caught her interest the whole trip back to the main level. That would have been too much to ask for, Meredith supposed. Oh well, two witches would be enough entertainment for the evening. Meredith found an empty hallway to drop her sight shield.
When she entered the dining room, most of the coven had already arrived, Maeren and Danella included. Good. No need for a search that would give anyone a reason to be suspicious. The anticipation was almost too much to bear. Meredith was practically giddy with the knowledge that everything was turning out just as she planned.
Valinna can have her grand plans to gloat over them all she wants, but they aren't half as satisfying as playing games with these coven bitches.
And speaking of the wrinkled windbag, Valinna was on her way over now. Meredith was in such a good mood that she almost didn't need to remind herself to smile. So help her if the Black Widow spoiled her mood before the entertainment, though. If anyone could, Valinna would find a way. She almost willed her to do it- just to see what would happen.
"You look in good spirits this evening. I trust that the rest of your morning went well?"
Oh well, I suppose she's decided to play nice. Too bad I haven't. And I know the perfect thing to needle her.
"Naturally," Meredith purred as she slid by. "Lady Jaemie's latest gift was truly inspirational. I'd say the most invigorating aspect of my day."
Valinna dogged her steps, but made no comment. Oh she wanted to, as Meredith knew damn well. No doubt the same boring lecture that sex was a distraction they couldn't afford. Absurd. Maybe if the sour hag made use of the males herself she'd be less uptight.
Everyone sat down, and the staff brought in the dishes. She resisted the urge to keep an eye on Maeren and Danella. But she didn't want to miss the look on their faces, either. A quick glance showed her that neither had so much as picked up a fork yet.
They knew. Meredith was sure of it. That bitch cook must have said something. Everything was ruined, and she vowed they all would pay dearly. And then Maeren took the first fateful bite. Next to her, Danella did the same. The cook- not to mention everyone else- was spared her wrath.
The trap was sprung, and now she didn't bother to hide her scrutiny of the two witches. Idrina, sitting on her left, noticed first.
"Is something the matter, my Queen?"
"Not at all," Meredith replied, not even turning her head. "Everything is absolutely perfect."
Something in her tone must have alerted Maeren, who immediately looked to Meredith. With a smile, she saluted the witch with her wineglass. In seconds, the safframate began to work. Maeren's face grew flushed as she dropped her fork with a horrendous clatter. Danella wasn't long behind her.
Meanwhile, the rest of the coven watched in silence.
"I believe you've discovered the extra ingredients on the menu," she announced cheerfully. "Feeling unwell, Ladies?"
"What," Maeren gasped, "have we done to earn your displeasure, my Queen?"
"See, that's precisely the problem, isn't it? During our brief meeting this morning I was sure you were up to something, and that's what I'm going to find out with a little help. I'm sure you know how safframate works."
Danella was trembling already, awash as the intense reaction to the drug overwhelmed her rational mind. But Maeren hung on a while longer.
"My Queen, there's been a serious misunderstanding. Lady Danella and I were merely meeting our friends for breakfast. Nothing more."
"Hmmm…" Meredith replied. "So you said before. We'll see how long you can stick to that story over the next few days."
Her gaze flicked to Larkin and Othar- her latest replacements for Grael. Draega was never short of supply when it came to Blood males who wanted to hurt witches.
"Take them to the attic room and see they're taken care of properly."
They immediately understood her meaning, and eagerly hauled the witches away from the table. Meredith watched their struggles with vindictive delight, finding satisfaction in the spectacle.
*You go too far with this, Meredith* Valinna admonished shrilly over a Red distaff thread.
*Nonsense. These two are conspirators and they'll get what they deserve for it*
*Even if they are, this is not the way we discussed dealing with the coven. It's definitely not part of the plan we discussed this morning*
*So what? It's not like they matter*
*If you have them broken right now- in this way- you will lose the support of every witch at this table*
*Oh please*
*Look at them, Meredith. Look hard*
Just so she could shut her up, Meredith did as she said. Not one witch at the table was looking at Maeren and Danella- or their captors. Each one stared directly at her, expressions carefully blank. While she couldn't call it overt disapproval, their consensus was clear; the coven would not side with her on this.
Meredith cursed- first at them, and then at Valinna for being right. Why weren't they enjoying this as much as she was? None of them were going to be hurt by it, and who cared about nobodies like Maeren and Danella? For some reason, they did, though. Something she'd have to fix later, but in the meantime she was stuck.
*Fine* she snarled over their connection. *I'll change my plans*
*Best do it quickly*
She didn't like losing, especially in front of the coven. So Meredith had to find a way to pretend she hadn't lost. A change of mind, maybe. They'd believe her if they thought she had merely been playing a joke.
"Silly boys," she called out with a disdainful laugh.
Larkin and Othar hesitated at the door, waiting for her to continue.
"You actually thought I'd let you break two of my coven members?"
Anger flashed in their eyes, but neither of them said anything. Meredith was incensed that they dared show her any defiance after all she'd given them. She decided to remind them what life would be like when she withheld her generosity.
"Perhaps I should think of a punishment for the both of you as well. While I consider the matter, be quick to lock the ladies in the attic and return straight away."
Their fun spoiled, the Warlords pushed the witches roughly out of the room. Just as well. If she wasn't going to have any fun tonight, then neither were they.
As for the coven, none of them seemed to have moved or changed expression. The room radiated tension, as the food remained untouched. Well, they were all being ridiculous. Her mood grew blacker every passing second, and it was all their fault. Valinna and the others had managed to ruin what should have been a fine show.
Gradually, witches turned back to their meals, talking amongst themselves in low tones. She did her best to ignore them, her thoughts already focused on how long it would take to find suitable replacements. Then Larkin and Othar could have them all for all she cared.
4/Terreille
I swear I'll strangle the bitch- Queen of Hayll be damned- if she ever does that again, Valinna seethed inwardly. She nearly ruined everything.
Obviously, she needed to keep a closer eye on Meredith if she hoped to pull off the plan. The Queen's penchant for dosing the coven with safframate for her amusement was one thing; handing them over to those pets of hers was another. She might as well incite the others to start a rebellion.
If that happened, Meredith wouldn't win. The Gray and the Red may be the darkest Jewels in Hayll, but if pushed too far, the others knew ways around that. They need only wait for the next moontime. Wasn't that how they'd destroyed other strong witches?
If she thought lecturing Meredith on that point would do any good, she would. But considering the past few days, Valinna decided not to waste her breath. She'd be better off planting spies around the Queen. At least then she could stop any future disturbances before they got this far.
One key question remained: who would be her spy?
It couldn't be anyone from the coven, or Meredith would notice. Not to mention, it would be too expensive to replace one of them if Meredith figured it out.
I could try the staff, she mused. Hardly a brain among them, but they understand enough to obey an order. It's not like I need them to understand why I need the information. Quite frankly, all the better that they don't.
She'd meet with them later. For now, she had other things to see to. Meredith wasn't going to make it easy, sulking like a child over a spoiled game. They were supposed to go over the first round of messages and select a Queen to send to one of the weaker districts. Valinna had decided to start with Lady Olivia, as reports from her court weren't as favorable as Jaemie or Julaene's were.
Unlike the Queen, who'd wasted the morning wallowing in bed like a bitch in heat, she'd spent the day on something more productive. The district directly under Meredith's control was home to several young Queens who would fit well for this assignment. By early afternoon, she'd picked Lady Nataline from among a short list of desirable candidates.
Now all she needed was Meredith's final approval to send her to Lady Olivia. It pained Valinna that she couldn't just see to it herself, but she still needed the backing of a Queen. Even if it was a token one.
At some point, she realized that the coven had all but disappeared from the table. Only Seren and Idrina remained, likely because they were seated closely enough that their departure would be noticed. Both seemed agitated, in any case. Valinna glanced at Meredith. Still scowling at her plate, ignoring everyone. She supposed she'd have to find out what they wanted.
"Sisters, was there something you needed?"
Idrina nudged Seren, who did her best not to look nervous.
"The others asked us to stay behind. To see the Warlords obeyed our Queen's command."
Hell's fire, they hadn't returned yet. How long had it been? The trip there and back shouldn't have taken more than ten minutes or so.
A fact not lost on the other witches in the coven, judging by the expression on Seren's face. None of them had been fooled by Meredith's game. They knew she'd fully intended to have Maeren and Danella broken. But since they'd forced her to rescind the command, the witches wanted to be sure the Queen hadn't changed her mind a second time.
And they're letting us know it.
Valinna tried not to let her alarm show, and offered the witches a grim smile.
"Your diligence has been noted, Seren- Idrina. I will see to the matter personally." When they didn't move, she gestured to the door. "It's not necessary for you to wait for my return."
They left the table, albeit reluctantly. Not good. Not good at all. Valinna turned to Meredith.
"We're taking a walk up to the attic and if those Warlords have so much as laid a finger on either of those two witches, they are forfeit."
"They're mine and you can't tell me what to do with them," the Queen retorted.
"You'll do exactly what I say with them if you want to keep the coven from open rebellion," Valinna hissed back in absolute frustration. "Now let's go."
"Fine. But I still don't see why you think this is such a dire situation. So the coven won't approve. Replacing them will be inconvenient, but it's not like we haven't done it before."
Yes, but that was a long time ago, when Hayll still had strong witches to choose from. Since then, we culled most of them and now no one is left if these witches desert us, Valinna argued silently.
But as she said none of those things aloud, Meredith continued to rant. The whole way to the attic, she talked of nothing else. The Queen honestly thought she could substitute any group of witches for the coven without issue. Mother Night, her naïveté would ruin them all.
No sign of either Larkin or Othar on the way, which only heightened Valinna's worry. By the time they'd gotten to the attic, she was ready to give up all hope to find the witches unmolested. But silence awaited them from behind the heavy wooden door. If the Warlords were inside, they ought to hear something. Valinna threw back the bolt lock and pushed her way inside.
Two witches. Nothing else in the room aside from the barest amenities. Once steadied by relief, Valinna studied the room's newest occupants. Lady Maeren and Lady Danella were already beyond coherent thought- eyes unfocused and trembling severely. She was struck by a sudden thought, and whirled around to Meredith.
"How much did they get," she demanded.
"Just a spoonful. They wouldn't have been much sport for Larkin and Othar if I'd given them any more than that."
Thank the Darkness. The witches could survive this, so long as no one interfered while the drug was still waxing. She still didn't know if Meredith had chosen them out of some imagined offense, or if maybe they were conspiring against them. But she would wait a few days before attempting any sort of interrogation. Better to be safe than to waste two witches they couldn't afford to lose just yet.
She retreated from the room and relocked the door, placing a Red lock and shield over it. Even if the Queen's pets held off their 'sport' tonight, she couldn't guarantee they wouldn't be back. Now, if anything did happen to Maeren or Danella, the coven would know only one other person could have let the Warlords in. Valinna was fed up with protecting Meredith from herself. She'd have to explain it to them without her assistance this time.
Finished, she turned away from the door. Meredith was standing in the middle of the hallway, arms crossed as she huffed out a breath.
"You dragged us up here for nothing."
Unconcerned, Valinna waved a hand around them.
"Nothing? Then where are your pets now, Meredith? I notice they aren't here, but they didn't come back to the dining hall, either. So where are they?"
The bitch had no reply to that, and grumbled something under her breath.
"Well?"
"If you want to know so badly, I'll find out."
Meredith's eyes took on a distant look while she reached out to find Larkin and Othar. Seconds later, they darkened in rage and she snapped back to attention.
"Those ungrateful miscreants," she snarled. "They went straight to the servant quarters."
Valinna didn't need to ask what they were doing there. She only hoped whatever witches they'd selected weren't too high on the staff hierarchy. Or weren't ones she'd hoped to use as her spies. Yet again, she was convinced that Blood males were nothing but trouble.
"I'll shave both of them if they've damaged my personal maid beyond use!"
And yet you were content to let them break witches from the coven before I'd even discovered if they were the scheming liars you suspected.
"I'll let you deal with them," she said aloud. "Since I doubt you need my help with that."
"I think I can manage well enough."
Meredith was about to disappear down the stairs when Valinna reminded her of their unfinished business.
"Shall we reconvene in the green salon when you've finished?"
The Queen paused, one foot hovering over the top step. She looked both confused and wary.
"Why?"
"The letters for the District Queens, for one. But more importantly, I have a candidate for your review. She'd be our spy in Lady Olivia's court."
Meredith pursed her mouth, obviously impatient. Valinna merely waited.
"Yes, whatever. I suppose if you've found someone already, I can take a few minutes to provide my approval. So long as she meets my expectations."
With that, she was halfway down the stairs in a flurry of skirts. Valinna remained where she was until she was certain the Queen was well on her way to the servant quarters. No point in rushing to the green salon, as sorting out the situation would take her at least fifteen minutes. Maybe more, if anything had gone too wrong.
Good thing most of the coven seemed to be content playing least in sight for the rest of the evening. Meaning with any luck, the two of them could keep this lapse of control to themselves. Neither of them could afford any rumor that their authority in this court wasn't absolute.
It didn't matter that the Warlords had chosen to take their revenge on lowly serving witches. They'd acted without the Queen's orders, and should be disposed of- immediately. Sadly, Valinna doubted Meredith would do much of anything to Larkin or Othar. And that would send an unwelcome message to every witch in the coven. Yet another thing Meredith neglected to think about when she pulled stunts like this.
It would fall upon her to fix whatever mess came of this, she told herself as she headed downstairs. As if she didn't have enough to do already. But before she entered the salon, Valinna set those thoughts firmly aside.
Lady Nataline was waiting for her, as she'd requested.
"My apologies for the delay. An emergency arose and we were forced to deal with it."
"Is everything all right?"
"Nothing to worry," Valinna assured her. "Lady Meredith will be here shortly and we'll review your assignment."
"I'm happy to assist in any way I can."
The words sounded sincere enough. And given her accomplishments in the western edge of the district, the witch certainly had the right skills they needed to take control of Lady Olivia's district. Long overdue, since the Queen hadn't been doing much to hold onto it for herself.
The door flung open, and Meredith stormed in.
"Those two are damned lucky…" she began.
*Not here* Valinna sent urgently, hoping to interrupt the Queen's tirade before she said anything they'd regret later.
Meredith glared at her, but checked herself with a sharp smile when she saw Lady Nataline.
*I take it this is the witch you wanted me to see?*
*Yes*
*She doesn't look like much*
*That's precisely what I want Olivia to think when she sees her*
*All right, let's get on with this, then. Just remember- I'm the one making the decision here and not you*
Meaning she was going to make Valinna pay for interfering with Maeren and Danella. If that's the price she'd have to pay to keep the coven stable and get her way about this spy, she was willing to pay it.
*Yes, Meredith, of course*
Without preamble, she crossed the room and chose a chair. For some time, she ran calculating eyes over the witch, saying nothing. Lady Nataline looked nervous under her scrutiny, twisting her shawl between her hands. Eventually, Meredith deemed herself ready to begin the interview.
"Tell me, Lady, of yourself and your credentials. Why should I select you over any other?"
"My name is Nataline, my Queen," the witch began carefully. "And I've been training here in your district for the past ten years. I wear the Yellow and Tiger-Eye.
"My skills have been focused on keeping an eye on the streets on the western edge of the district, reporting any issues to the members of your coven. I have enjoyed the opportunity, but would like to advance my skills in hopes of ruling a district of my own on day."
Meredith's gaze fell to the pendant around Lady Nataline's neck, and she gave her a pained smile.
"And how do you expect to control a district if you wear only the Yellow and Tiger-Eye?"
The young Queen refused to be intimidated.
"That is what I hope to learn by studying under one of the established Queens directly."
"Interesting. And what would you do if you noticed that this established Queen wasn't quite as…loyal…as she ought to be?"
"I would do the same as I've done here- report it to your coven," Lady Nataline replied without hesitation.
"Would you," Meredith queried doubtfully. "I'm afraid it's not quite the same to report a Sister in the coven than rogue Blood males. With your youth, I wonder if you might be swayed to their side instead."
"Never. My first loyalty is to you as Queen of Hayll."
"My, my, you are determined, aren't you? Let's say I do select you and you should discover one of your Sisters is conspiring with the Dhemlans, I caution you against reporting it to the coven. Something of that importance should be brought to the attention Valinna or myself."
"Yes, my Queen."
The questions went on for a short while longer, until Meredith appeared satisfied. She rose, and shrugged to Valinna as if the whole matter had bored her. Knowing her, it likely had.
"She's acceptable. I trust you've drafted the letter for Lady Olivia already?"
"Yes, it's right here." She called it in.
"Oh don't bother me to look at it. I'm sure you've drafted it as I specified. See that Lady Nataline is properly briefed with the details of her assignment and send her today."
Valinna gritted her teeth, knowing that she had no choice but to play this game for now. It had to look like Meredith was calling the shots. She merely nodded, watching the Queen exit the salon. Once she was gone, she turned back to the witch seated next to her.
"Now then, this is what you'll be expected to do once you're in Olivia's court…"
5/Terreille
She stared at the letter in shock, unable to believe that Meredith would do something this drastic. Olivia read it once more, hoping to find some other way of interpreting it. Nope, still the same bullshit.
Does she really think I don't know what this is?
Meredith had sent a potential replacement, and expected her to train the upstart Queen to boot. Oh sure, the letter said that the witch was here as part of a new program to accelerate the training of junior Queens. But Olivia knew better. Lady Nataline was a back-up plan. If she did anything Meredith didn't like, she'd be replaced by that moon-eyed ninny in a fast minute.
She wanted to refuse the young Queen. Send her back to Meredith and her pet Black Widow, Valinna, with a letter of her own. That would be suicide, of course. Absolutely out of the question. Meredith wouldn't stop at replacing her; Olivia would be the next 'demonstration' the Queen needed to show everyone who ruled Hayll.
So I guess I'm stuck with her.
"Is everything all right, Lady Olivia?"
She studied her potential rival carefully. It was too soon to tell yet if the bitch were involved in Meredith's plot, or was merely another unwitting pawn. If Rachel were any decent Black Widow, she might be able to find out. But she wasn't. And even if she was, it'd still be risky to try it. So she'd just have to be pleasant to this nesting viper if she wanted to keep her district.
"Quite all right, Lady Nataline. I confess that I was surprised Lady Meredith would have sent you out this late. Parts of the city still aren't safe for a witch travelling alone."
"I thank you for your concern, but I'm sure I could have handled myself if I did come upon one of the rogues. I've dealt with plenty of them in Draega's central district."
Which meant the chit had seen only the tamest the city had to offer, and understood nothing of what it meant to live beyond the safety of Meredith's own district. Out here, encountering Blood males who out ranked witches was far more common. And they despised anyone associated with Meredith. Attitudes like Lady Nataline's could get her killed very quickly. And as much as that might solve her problem in the immediate sense, Olivia didn't want to explain to Meredith and Valinna why her protégé wasn't sufficiently protected.
"The central district is different from living in one of the peripherals, Lady. I advise that until you've had a chance to understand better, you leave the residence only with an escort."
"You're not serious."
"I'm very serious. With this letter from Hayll's Queen, your safety has been entrusted to my care. I would be remiss in my duties if I didn't take these necessary precautions."
"I see," the witch said, obviously disappointed.
"Don't worry. I'm sure you'll adjust in no time. In the meantime, why don't I introduce you to the senior members of my court?"
Olivia called to the others on a general psychic thread, summoning them to her audience room. She doubted any of them would be glad to have this Queen underfoot, but might as well get the introductions over with. Everyone sent back a reply that they'd arrive shortly.
Everyone except Desre.
*Do we have to meet now* the Healer whined. *I was just about to retire to my suite for the night*
No doubt with a Blood male, and that's why you're so put out, Olivia thought sourly.
*Now, Desre. Your plans can wait an hour*
The witch had the sense not to comment further, but she did break their link rather rudely. Why couldn't Meredith have sent her a new Healer? That girl was a constant problem, and a Summer-sky Jewel couldn't make up for it.
Ysette arrived first, likely because she'd been hovering nearby. The witch was nice enough- always trying to be helpful- but she wasn't much of an asset to the coven. Her Jewels were so light that the simplest Craft was a drain. Olivia had offered her a contract as a favor to the girl's parents. They lived next to hers, so she'd really not had much of a choice.
Rachel and Allina scuttled into the room next. From the look of the latter, she'd been down in the kitchens. Allina's Jewels might not be much darker than Ysette's, but her skills as a Hearth witch had been a welcome addition.
She'd gotten the witch as part of a deal she'd made with her sister, Rachel, who'd been assigned to her court as a Black Widow. Now that was one bargain that Olivia didn't regret. In truth, Allina's skills added more value than Rachel's. The Black Widow had only partial training in Valinna's circle, and what little training she got there didn't seem to stick with her.
I'm the district of misfits. A place for every witch Meredith doesn't want, but wasn't enough of a nuisance to have killed. She's never forgiven me for the loss of her favorite protégé.
Making the offer to train an inexperienced Queen even more suspicious. If she was wrong, and the girl wasn't a replacement, then Olivia had to wonder what was wrong with Lady Nataline to have her sent here instead of to Jaemie or Julaene.
She was about to remind Desre they were waiting when the Healer rushed through the door. Olivia passed a sharp look over her, but the witch ignored it. Typical.
"Now that we're all here, I'd like to introduce you all to Lady Nataline."
Greetings were exchanged in lukewarm tones. If her court wasn't thrilled with the Queen, she wasn't all that impressed by them, either. Olivia pretended not to notice and continued.
"Queen Meredith selected our court as the first to host an outreach program designed to teach younger Queens about ruling a district. The idea is to fast-track their readiness to take on a district of their own."
She paused just enough to be sure she had all of their attention for this next part.
"I'll be looking to all of you for your assistance during Lady Natalie's stay."
"Great, more work," Desre muttered. "As if we weren't busy enough."
In the past, she might have ignored a comment like that. Okay, she absolutely would have ignored it. Life was so much easier that way. But now that she had this Queen watching, Olivia knew she had to address things like this. She drew herself up in her seat and fixed a steely glare at the Healer.
"If you feel your duties are too demanding for you to accommodate this request, you can explain your reasons to Meredith. Personally."
"Me- go there over something so trivial," the witch scoffed lightly. "Why can't you just say something?"
"I'm not the one who seems to have an issue helping one of our Sisters," Olivia pointed out, well aware that she'd just blatant lied.
"Yeah, but…."
"No buts. Either you cut the attitude, or you're on your way to Meredith's court tonight."
"Tonight?"
"Yes. Tonight."
Desre swallowed whatever argument she may have planned to make, sufficiently subdued by that final threat. Unlike Lady Natalie, the witches in Olivia's coven knew the dangers lurking out there all too well. She waited for a few minutes before pressing the issue.
"Well," she prompted.
"There's no need to send me to the Queen," Desre replied, her tone dolorous.
"Excellent, then I look forward to your cooperation with Lady Natalie's training."
"Yes, of course."
"Does anyone else wish to voice an opinion?"
Heads shook vigorously. Thank the Darkness it had only taken one threat to make them compliant. As for Lady Nataline, she looked thoughtful. Olivia wished she knew what the witch had gleaned from the exchange. Hopefully, she'd focused on how dissent was handled and not on the surprised faces of Desre and the others that she had bothered to handle it. Mother Night, things were already complicated and the witch had only been here an hour.
"Olivia," Allina spoke up tentatively.
"What?''
"Has the Lady been given a room yet?"
Trust a Hearth witch to think of such mundane things at a time like this. But she was sadly grateful for it.
"I don't believe so."
"I'll contact Ginger to ready a room. What about the one on the second floor facing south?"
"That sounds fine."
Honestly, she had no idea what room Allina was talking about, but she supposed she ought to pretend that she did for appearance's sake. Personally, she found it silly that a Queen need be bothered about things like room arrangements and how many blankets were laid out on the beds. Why did she have a Hearth witch or a servant staff if she was expected to make those decisions herself?
Olivia had more pressing issues that took most of her attention. They could well manage this on their own. And had been doing as much until Lady Nataline showed up. Desre wasn't the only one who'd be annoyed by extra work before this was over.
"It doesn't have much of a view," the witch told the young Queen, "but the room is large and it's adjoining a private bathroom. I hope that's to your liking, Lady."
"Sounds good to me, Lady Allina."
They shared a brief, friendly smile. At least someone in the coven had managed to make a decent impression on the Queen. Sad that it was only a Hearth witch. Olivia would have preferred Lady Nataline take an interest in someone more important.
First you have to have witches of any importance to be noticed, she mused wryly. And Meredith has ensured none of those ends up here.
"Well, if you'll see to the Lady and get her settled in for the night, I think we should all adjourn for the evening. Tomorrow is early enough to begin anything else."
"Meeting at breakfast?" Rachel asked.
"Nine-thirty. I expect you all to be there."
Even Desre nodded without an argument. Olivia didn't deceive herself that she and Rachel were likely complaining about her the minute they were out of earshot. Just so long as word of it didn't reach Lady Nataline, she'd let it go
Might as well call it a night myself. Tomorrow is going to be a looong day.