Book 14: Delegation of Power

Maeve

It’s the middle of the night when I finally slide into my private apartment. Boxes of my things are stacked precariously around the foyer, all labeled to be delivered to specific rooms in the massive royal suite that takes up an entire floor two stories above me. My head pounds from wearing the crown and all the jewels that dangled from my forehead for hours even though I undressed immediately after coming off the balcony. That was hours ago.

Now, I’m wearing the white ceremonial gown from when I blessed the couple performing the Rite and a dark navy blue cloak. It smells like the smoke that drifted off the lake where dozens of bonfires were burning.

After the Rite, I was escorted back to the castle where a party for my grandparents was being held. It had a very select guest list, but party goers still filled the formal ballroom, and even now, in the dead of night, I can still hear the music drifting through the castle.

I assume everyon