Chapter 71

Winter’s POV

We all knelt in front of the shrine dedicated to the late dowager, observing the period of mourning and reflection in her honor. As the ceremony proceeded, I took the chalice from the priestess and in that moment, something flashed through my mind.

I remembered the woman I had seen a few days earlier. I remembered seeing her with Wiles.

Could someone close to Wiles have discovered the truth about her death? Did they find out who murdered her and came to Lordan for vengeance?

The priestess touched my shoulder, and I snapped out of my thoughts, realizing that I had inadvertently poured more wine than needed into the prayer fire.

I watched in dismay as the flames sputtered and extinguished.

I stammered, “Oh, I’m sorry, I...”

I rushed out of the shrine, the hem of my long dress trailing behind me as I hurriedly made my way to Lucas chambers before hearing he went hunting. At least he wasn’t with Lordan and that got me a littl