The last time I was at the palace was a week before the disowning. I remember going to wait in a sitting room while my father and older brothers attended the meeting for the High Houses with the Emperor of that time. “Zen, you come with me today.” Father had put a hand on my shoulder My eyes went

Realization hits me with a flurry of hazy memories. In my childhood, I’ve met children of the other High House many times, but those memories are long gone. The child I was then died a long time ago. All that remains of that life are a few blurry memories that feel more like strange dreams than real

Damn you, guardian angel! Do you want to be fired for real?! I swallow thickly. I won’t get murdered in a royal palace, right? When is Mesilla getting here? “Pure silver,” His voice snaps me from my thoughts “How did you get this little trinket?” I narrow my eyes “Who are you?” He raises his bro

Dinner is… interesting. When Andrea and I came down, we found the fourth prince in animated discussion with Zen, who looked simultaneously surprised and uncomfortable. Well, I suppose being called the ‘Lord of Murder’ is weird for anyone. I chew forlornly at my food, my thoughts still preoccupied

We’re meeting everyone else involved in the curse’s investigation, tomorrow. And I did tell the fourth prince that I’ll help. Like Zen said, there’s a lot to discuss. By the time I’m back in the bed chamber, Zen is lying on the long couch, boots set neatly aside and eyes close. A tick of annoyance