Half Measures

Xandra

I lean against the wall of the barracks as healed troops parade before me in Dun’s Crossing’s pale blue and Tansy Beach’s rich indigo. If Father were here, he’d lecture me about my posture, about failing to stand at attention for these brave men who’ve risked so much for our kingdom. But if I try to stand upright, the gray at the edges of my vision stands a real chance of taking over entirely, and I’ve managed not to faint in public since I saw them burning Mother’s portrait.

Things have only intensified since King Kieran’s departure nearly a week ago. Father has somewhat officially banned Finn from the council meetings. Beta Taner sits in on most of them as the representative for Dun’s Crossing, and he cannot technically refuse a prince where a Beta is allowed, but the message has been conveyed: Finn can enter the room—if he wishes to face the consequences.

No one is quite clear on what those consequences will be. Yet, Father’s glower does