The Jabberwocky Princess Sample

© 2019 Cece Louise. All rights reserved. 

No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means without the prior written permission of the publisher, except by a reviewer who may quote brief passages in a review.

Chapter 1– KAINDA –

“It happened again!” I burst into the stable, commanding my best friend’s attention.

“What did?” Larkin looked up from the chestnut horse he was tending and flashed a crooked grin. He was familiar with—but not overly concerned by—my dramatic entrances.

“Another monster attack,” I said, trying to catch my breath as I sat down on a bale of hay. “Last week, a whole herd of livestock was massacred in the middle of the night. The farmer and his family awoke in the morning to find the carnage—what was left anyway.”

Larkin knit his brows. “Where did this happen?”

“Fernshire again.” I handed him the piece of paper I’d just picked up in the Galesmore village describing the horrific scene.

Larkin perused it, then shook his head. “At least it happened at night . . . It’s a miracle no one was hurt.”

“Yes, but look.” I pulled two more papers from my pocket and smoothed them. “A similar slaughter happened at a farm on the outskirts of Fernshire two weeks ago, and”—I handed them to Larkin—“several people have gone missing from around Fernshire—especially close to Eternity Forest.”

“What do you think it is?”

“I don’t know.” I swiped away an unruly lock of red hair that had escaped my messy braid. “But whatever it is, these attacks sound very similar to the monster my father hunted in Fernshire before he disappeared . . .” I bit my lip. “What if it’s back?”

Concern flickered in Larkin’s eyes as he laid a gentle hand on my arm. “That was over four years ago. It could be just a coincidence.”

I handed him one last document. “Fernshire is in a state of panic. This is the third attack they’ve had in the past month. They want the beast stopped. In fact, the king has promised his daughter’s hand in marriage to anyone who slays it.”

“Really?” Larkin glanced at me. He was far too used to my outrageous imaginings to take everything I said seriously, but I knew this news had caused him to realize the severity of the situation.

I nodded. “People are fleeing Fernshire. Meat and crops are in low supply. The monster is ravaging their countryside.”

Larkin’s brown eyes dimmed with worry as he thought hard, weighing the gravity of everything I’d just said.

The stable door swung open and a gruff voice called out. “Larkin! In the courtyard now! Prince Ander has called a meeting with the knights.”

“Okay.” Larkin dropped the horse brush he’d been holding and wiped the back of his hand on his trouser leg. “I’ll be right there, Korth.”

“Be quick.” The knight named Korth sneered at Larkin, then ran his obtrusive gaze over me. I crossed my arms and fixed him with a wrathful stare. 

Korth licked his lips, then left the stable. Larkin reached for his previously discarded armor and began putting it on over his stable clothes.

“A surprise meeting with the knights . . .” I picked up Larkin’s face mask, fingering the cool metallic surface. “I bet it’s about the attacks in Fernshire.”

Larkin looked up from adjusting his breastplate. “You don’t know that. Prince Ander probably just wants to assemble his knights to make us do something completely useless, like teach him how to win his next tavern brawl.”

I gave a short laugh. “I guess that’s a possibility too.”

Prince Ander, the youngest of the five Galesmore princes, was best known around the kingdom for his immature antics and foolish revelries. Rumor had it that the king had threatened to disown him if he didn’t stay out of trouble and take a more serious interest in the kingdom.

“But if it is about the attacks . . .” I thrust on Larkin’s facial armor and shoved my long red braid inside the helmet, taking care that no stray hairs showed.

“What are you doing?” Larkin stared at me as I loosened my gown and slipped it down my shoulders to reveal a tunic top underneath and an old pair of Larkin’s black trousers. Whenever I wasn’t restricted to my maid duties around the castle, I took to the forest in this outfit to hunt or practice swordplay with Larkin.

“I’m coming with you,” I said, my voice slightly muffled behind the faceplate.

“Are you insane?” Larkin’s eyes grew wide. “You look ridiculous.”

“I’ll stand behind you. No one is going to notice me in the throng with the other knights.” I bent down to tuck my pant legs into my black riding boots. “Besides, it’s an impromptu meeting. I’m sure not everyone will be wearing full armor.”

“You’re going to get us both kicked out of the palace. I’ll be a disgraced knight.”

“Stop being so dramatic. I want the real story behind this monster. I can’t rely on any of the gossip in the maids’ quarters.” I headed for the door. “They’re all so flighty.” I didn’t mention the real reason I wouldn’t learn anything from them—none of the maids liked me.

“So wait until I’m done, and I’ll tell you everything.” Larkin rushed up behind me.

“You might miss something important.” I took long strides, appreciating that I was no longer inhibited by my heavy gown. “Now hurry up, we don’t want them to start without us.”

Larkin groaned but jogged to keep up. “You’re going to feel awfully foolish when you get roped into herding swans to impress Prince Ander’s latest visiting princess.”

“If that’s the case, you’ll be glad to have me. Swans are nasty creatures with vile temperaments—my specialty.”

Larkin laughed. “Kainda, the monster hunter. How could I forget?”

~

As Larkin and I entered the courtyard, I was relieved that most of the knights had already gathered, allowing us to slip into the back of the horde unnoticed. As we took our places in the crowd, I heard a few murmurs of “spoiled prince” and “a waste of time.”

I fidgeted with my tunic in nervous anticipation. I hoped my deception wouldn’t really end up being a waste of time.

Although I often disregarded Larkin’s worries, he had a point. If I were discovered impersonating a knight, I’d likely be dismissed from my job as a kitchen maid. Not something I could afford to happen, given my circumstances.

Looking around, I was pleased to see that many of the knights were dressed in tunics and trousers like me, not in full armor like Larkin. I smiled. He was such an overachiever.

I lifted the faceplate of my helmet to see better and appear less conspicuous. Most knights were not wearing their armor masks.

Galesmore’s head knight, Sir Ivan, entered the balcony overlooking the courtyard, then announced in a booming voice, “Your Royal Majesty, Prince Ander!”

A respectful hush fell across the crowd as Prince Ander stepped onto the balcony. Regardless of what the knights thought of the king’s youngest son, no one would risk speaking out against him where he could hear.

As a small line of knights followed and assembled behind him, Prince Ander strode toward the balustrade, looking every bit as royal and arrogant as I remembered. His dark blond hair was perfectly groomed to one side, and his rich, cerulean coat—probably worth more than my year’s earnings—highlighted his cool blue eyes.

The prince relaxed his angular jaw as he surveyed the crowd, looking down his long nose at us. He cleared his throat. “Good afternoon. As I’m sure most of you are aware by now, the kingdom of Fernshire is facing a crisis.”

I nudged Larkin in the ribs to say, I told you so. He grunted and pushed my elbow away as Prince Ander continued.

“A terrible beast has descended upon them, bringing destruction and death with it.” Although Prince Ander’s words were grim, his languid expression gave me the impression that he might yawn at any moment. “As close neighbors and friends of Fernshire, it is our duty to come to their aid.”

I snorted in amusement and whispered to Larkin, “I’m sure the princess being offered as a reward for slaying the beast had no bearing on this decision.”

Larkin nodded. It was long known that Prince Ander’s father, King Malcolm, wished to grow his imperial power by uniting Galesmore and Fernshire. However, rumor had it that King Nicholas of Fernshire wouldn’t agree to a marriage between his only daughter and a rogue like Prince Ander. Apparently, there was finally a chance for the match King Malcolm sought. The fact that the Princess of Fernshire was said to be extremely beautiful probably hadn’t caused Prince Ander to protest.

“I will assemble a team of my best knights,” Prince Ander said, “to join me in hunting and slaying this beast.”

An excited murmur broke out among the crowd. No matter what public opinion of Prince Ander was, knights were trained for challenges such as this. They lived for excitement. I felt a pang of envy that I would never be allowed to share in that exhilaration. How I longed to experience adventures like the ones my father had told me stories of as a child.

“Now”— Prince Ander motioned to the line of men behind him—“I’ve already selected several knights to be part of my team. Men who have proven themselves courageous, strong, and clever . . . but I am looking for additional knights who can prove they add value to our mission.”

The excited din grew louder, but Prince Ander raised his hand.

“Before we begin the selection process, I would like to make it very clear what you are getting yourself into. The Fernshire beast is a formidable foe—not only are we unsure of exactly what we are facing, but we’ve also seen proof this monster is able to bring death to its adversaries swiftly and painfully.” He frowned. “If you volunteer for this expedition, be prepared that you may not make it out alive.”

Silence descended upon the crowd as Prince Ander’s grave words dampened the thrill-seeking spirit.

The prince surveyed the group with a solemn eye, then continued. “For those of you still interested, I’d like to hear what you think you could bring to this mission.”

Hands shot up in the air and yells rang out as eager knights vied for a chance to be the next hero.

“One at a time, please.” Prince Ander nodded to a man in the front.

“Your Highness, I heard the beast was a lynx. Cunning creatures and terribly hard to—”

“No!” Another knight pushed forward. “It was a pack of wolves! They bite like bears, they do, and have ferocious appetites—”

“Nonsense!” A gruff voice declared, “Only a pride of lions could butcher a herd like that—”

Before I knew what I was doing, I spoke up. “A lynx is native to the northern regions and thrives in a much colder climate, so it’s highly unlikely one would end up in Fernshire—especially this time of year. Wolf packs are easy to track, so they would leave behind obvious signs. And lions have been extinct in this region since the Roman conquest.”

The crowd fell silent as everyone turned to stare at me.

“Well, those are some interesting observations,” Prince Ander said, spreading his hands behind his back. “So, what do you think the beast is?”

I glanced around, then caught Larkin’s gaze. He shot me a warning look that said, Don’t you dare answer that. But I couldn’t very well ignore a question from the prince.

I cleared my throat and lifted my chin. “I don’t know, exactly. A bear, perhaps, or even a dragon—”

Laughter and jeers broke out among the other knights.

“Hear that, lads? Next, we’ll be hunting unicorns and fishing for mermaids!” Korth, the knight who’d summoned Larkin earlier, said with a chortle.

The prince raised his hand to silence the crowd. “A dragon? I must say, after your previous statement I was hoping for a more intelligent answer than that.”

“Your Highness,” I said, ready to defend myself, “while the dragon has long been regarded as a myth, there are those who believe—”

“Remove your facial armor when addressing the prince!” the head knight, Sir Ivan, demanded from behind Prince Ander.

I hesitated, knowing if I did, I would reveal myself to not be a knight.

“Now!” Sir Ivan barked again.

I glared at him, but seeing no other option, yanked my mask off. Gasps and angry cries sounded around me as my long, red braid tumbled out, several loose locks of hair falling around my face.

“It’s a woman!”

“That explains it . . .”

“Must be crazy, that one.”

“What is the meaning of this?” Sir Ivan marched to the edge of the balcony and stood next to Prince Ander, his ruddy face looking like it might explode. “Your Highness, I assure you, I have no idea who this woman is.”

Amidst the commotion, I dared a glimpse at the prince. His mouth twitched as he glanced at his head knight.

“Don’t just stand there, you fools!” Ivan pointed to me as if I were a threat to everyone’s safety. “Seize her!”

Before I could run, rough hands enclosed my shoulders and arms.

“Let go of me!” I struggled to break free, wishing I’d had the foresight to wear Larkin’s sword as part of my deception. Maybe then I could have forced these louts to unhand me.

“Listen here, young lady.” Sir Ivan raised a meaty finger, his black moustache bouncing above his lip with every syllable. “I don’t know what you think you’re playing at, but impersonating a knight and infiltrating a private meeting is a severe—”

“Ivan.” Prince Ander placed a hand on his head knight’s shoulder. “I’m sure there’s a reasonable explanation. Why don’t you just let her explain?”

“Hmph!” Sir Ivan straightened his armor over his large middle, then reluctantly gave the signal for the knights to release me.

Once their hold loosened, I pushed myself away from the knights and threw my shoulders back.

“What’s your name?” Prince Ander asked.

“Kainda.”

“And just who are you, Kainda?” The prince rubbed his jaw. “And more importantly, what brings you to this meeting of my knights this afternoon?”

“I’m a kitchen maid here at the palace, Your Highness.” I took a deep breath, unsure if he was angry. “I wanted to learn more about the monster attacks in Fernshire.”

“I see . . . And why is a maid like yourself so interested in this monster?”

“My father.” I stood a little taller. “He was a great hunter and knew everything about wild beasts. My mother and I travelled all over the world with him while he vanquished monsters. He started teaching me about them when I was very young, and I’ve never stopped being fascinated.”

Prince Ander stepped closer. “Where is your father now?”

I swallowed thickly. “He’s dead.”

“I’m sorry to hear that.” He did, at least, sound genuine.

“Thank you.”

“Unfortunately, due to the nature of this meeting and the fact that you are not a knight, I must ask you to leave.”

“Of course.” I set Larkin’s helmet on the ground, not too close to his feet. I didn’t want to make it obvious that he was the knight I’d gotten it from. No use getting him in trouble too.

As I walked away, ignoring the angry glares and whispers from some of the knights, I released a long, shaky breath. I was lucky to have kept my job after being discovered, but there was still a heaviness in my heart that I’d come no closer to learning more about the monster in Fernshire.

Ever since my father had gone missing and been presumed dead, I felt closest to him when recalling his tales about the creatures he’d seen and vanquished.

When memories weren’t enough, I pored over his books, trying to glean any extra information I could about the beasts he had faced.

But of course, there was one that really held my interest. The one my father had finally not been able to conquer—the unknown monster he’d faced in Fernshire over four years ago.

~

“But why can’t I come with you, Father?” I had handed my father his hunting dagger in its leather strap as I helped him pack for his next journey. “I trapped a wolf by myself yesterday. I’m ready.”

“This is different, Kainda.” My father had looked up from the bag he was packing to give me a warm smile. “Someday you’ll come on all of my hunts with me. We’ll be a legendary duo, slaying beasts in every land. But”—he flashed a mischievous grin—“your mother will have my head if I take you away from your studies now. You’re only fifteen, my dear. There will be plenty of time for hunting monsters when you’re older. Once you’ve completed your education.”

I rolled my eyes. “My studies are so boring. I’d much rather be with you—exploring, hunting, and saving kingdoms from ferocious beasts.”

“I know.” My father gave me a fond grin, then held up a finger. “But don’t underestimate your education, Kainda. Much of what I learned about beasts, I first learned from studying. There is more to hunting monsters than just finding them—you must understand them as well. And more importantly, you have to have the prudence to know when to attack and when to hold back.”

“I know, I know, the three principles of the hunt.” I was practically able to recite them in my sleep. “Education: one must identify the monster. Bravery: one must be able to face the monster. And wisdom: one must be able to understand the monster.”

“That’s right. Remember, the hunt isn’t about the glory or the excitement, it’s about keeping others—and yourself—safe.”

“Where are you going tomorrow?”

“A kingdom called Fernshire.” My father led me to a map on his desk and pointed to it. “Right here. It’s a small kingdom, but a proud one. They’ve been plagued by a mysterious monster for several weeks now. There have been no witnesses to the attacks—none that have survived, anyhow—and no one knows for certain what the beast is.”

“But I bet you do,” I said, feeling proud.

My father laughed. “I have my suspicions, yes.” He reached behind him and grabbed a large black book and placed it in his bag.

Before I could decide which of my many questions to ask next, my father ruffled my hair.

“I’ll know more when I get to Fernshire,” he said, buckling his bag.

“I wish I were going with you.”

“I do too. But if the beast plaguing Fernshire is as fearsome as the rumors say, I’d much rather have you somewhere safe. That’s why I’ve arranged for your mother and you to wait for me here in Galesmore.”

“I hope you slay the beast quickly, so you can return and teach me to hunt elk this winter.”

“I’ll certainly do my best, Kainda. In the meantime, take good care of your mother, and keep your mind on your studies.”

“I will, Father,” I said as he wrapped me in a large hug. I took a deep breath, inhaling the familiar scent of woodsmoke from his hunting clothes.

My father had departed early the next morning, but he hadn’t come back that winter. Or at all.

The beast in Fernshire had proven to be troublesome, and one fateful morning, my father led seven Fernshire knights on a hunt. No one returned.

The bodies of the knights were found, scattered across a canyon with arrows buried in their chests. No beast had killed them. They’d been murdered.

But my father’s body was never found.

News of the incident spread, as did speculation. Some believed that my father, the great monster hunter known for his eccentric ways, had finally gone insane and murdered every one of the knights in his madness.

Of course, my mother and I knew my father would never do such a thing. We believed my father had been killed by the beast he’d tried so hard to vanquish—or by whomever killed the knights.

But that didn’t stop the talk from spreading. With my father no longer around to provide for us, I’d been extremely lucky to secure a position in the Galesmore palace as a maid.

The oddest thing about the knights’ murders and my father’s disappearance was that—although there were no survivors—the beast of Fernshire had vanished without a trace as well. The kingdom was never troubled by it again.

Until perhaps now, four years later.

~

I was in my usual spot in the kitchen, cleaning after the evening meal, when Larkin found me.

“Well?” I dropped the silver dish I’d been polishing. “How did it go? Were you one of the knights selected?”

Larkin shook his head and picked up a rag. “Not even close. I tried to remember some of the information you told me about monster hunting, but a lot of the other knights were”—he swiped a silver spoon with his rag—“more enthusiastic.”

I nodded. It wasn’t Larkin’s dream to hunt beasts like it was mine, but I knew he still wanted to prove himself to his fellow knights.

Larkin had worked in the stable since he’d been orphaned as a boy—until a few years ago when he was promoted to a knight. Although, sometimes I thought he would have preferred to have stayed in the stable.

“It’s okay, Larkin.” I placed a hand on his shoulder. “I don’t think I could bear it if you went away and I was stuck here”—I picked up a dainty fork—“polishing silver and washing floors.”

“Yeah, I know.” Larkin pushed his brown hair away from his eyes. “I would hate that too. It’s just, I’ve been a knight for over three years now, and no one takes me seriously. They think because I’m quiet, I’m not brave or—”

“Well, they’re idiots! I mean, did you see how most of them reacted today when I took off my mask? Like I was some evil sorceress ready to wreak havoc on the kingdom.” I rolled my eyes. “Heaven forbid a woman would ever want to do anything but darn stockings.”

Larkin grinned. “Sir Ivan was the worst. I think he was hoping Prince Ander would throw you in the dungeon.”

The door to the kitchen swung open and another maid, Greta, strolled in.

“Oh, hello, Larkin.” Greta flashed him a winning smile and sauntered up to him, swaying her hips before placing a hand on his arm. “You’re looking quite handsome today.”

“Hello, Greta.” He stepped away from her. “You’re looking, uh . . . healthy.”

I laughed. Of all the maids, Greta was the biggest flirt. She was also very beautiful and wasn’t used to having her flirtations ignored. Although she’d had her eye on Larkin for a while, he’d rebuffed all her advances.

Greta turned from Larkin to glare at me.

“Kainda.” Her hostile expression changed to sickeningly sweet. “You’re needed in the parlor. Right away.”

“All right.” I wiped my hands on a towel, trying not to be alarmed by her fake smile. “Who’s asking for me?” I was worried it was Madam Prudence, the head maid, ready to scold me for my mishap today. Greta would love that.

Greta tossed her hair. “Prince Ander.”

Chapter 2– OPAL –

“Father!” I hurried down the palace’s marble halls, lifting my heavy skirt so my legs could keep up with my fury. I pushed open the door of my father’s royal study, not bothering to request permission to enter like I normally did, and cast a piece of paper onto his desk. “What is this?”

“Opal, my dear,” my father began as he rose from his chair, but I quickly cut him off.

“Is it not enough that you make a spectacle of me for endless, egotistical princes at your ridiculous balls, but now this? You’re going to sell me to whoever eradicates your latest problem?” Letting out a mirthless laugh, I pointed a well-manicured finger. “That’s low, even for you, Father.”

“Opal.” My father’s voice turned stern. “Fernshire is facing a crisis. Our people are suffering, and as their king, it is my duty to protect them. Since my knights have been unsuccessful in stopping this creature, we need extra help.” He glanced down at the paper I had flung on his desk. “In order to get that help, I need to offer an incentive.”

“An incentive?” My voice rose, and I mentally cringed at how shrill it sounded. “Is that all I am to you?”

“Your Highness.” My father’s head knight, Sir Bayne, took a step toward me and raised a placating hand. “You’re overexerting yourself. Why don’t you have a seat before you become faint?”

I shot Bayne a threatening glare. “You stay out of this.” I loathed Sir Bayne and his smarmy manner, meticulously groomed beard, and overly polished boots. While my father seemed to value his pandering, I certainly didn’t. Bayne was nothing but an opportunist who would go along with whatever my father said if it could improve his station. After all, that was how he had risen to head knight so young, not even thirty years old.

Bayne’s eyes turned hard, but he took a step back and gave a small, respectful nod. “As you wish, Your Highness.”

“Now, Opal,” my father said, “there is no need to attack Bayne. This was my decision—”

“What is going on in here?” My mother entered the study, her disapproval radiating like a beacon. “Opal, I could hear your outburst from the parlor. Must I remind you that a princess does not behave in such a fashion?”

I snatched the paper off my father’s desk and handed it to her. “Did you know about this?”

My mother gave me a warning look, then perused the document. I watched her carefully as she took in the information.

“Nicholas.” A dour expression crossed her features. “Why was I not consulted about this?”

Raising his hands, my father left his spot behind the desk. My mother and I both glared at him now.

“There simply wasn’t time, Liennet,” he said. “The villagers are panicking, and I have farmers in an uproar over their lost livestock and destroyed crops. We need a solution to this problem, and we need one quickly.”

“So it’s been decided.” My mother’s voice was cold.

“Yes, apparently it has.” I mimicked her tone. My mother and I didn’t have much in common, save our lustrous black hair and tall stature, but this was one time I wished I had her fierce authority. “I just came back from a ride in the village, and these posters were plastered everywhere. And I heard father already sent out a team of knights to spread them throughout other kingdoms as well.”

“Enough!” My father finally raised his voice. “I’ve had enough of your childishness, Opal. Your duty is to your people. They are suffering, and this is how you can help them.” He returned to the other side of his desk and sat down heavily. “Besides, if you hadn’t turned your nose up at every suitable prince I’ve introduced you to, I wouldn’t have to resort to this.” My father pulled his quill and ink blotter toward him and placed a hand to his forehead. “At this rate, I’ll have to marry you off to Sir Bayne as there will be no one left to have you.”

“It would be an honor, Your Majesty,” Sir Bayne said, standing up a little straighter. I wanted to slap him.

Instead, I pursed my lips. “Yes, well, your idea of who’s suitable is much different than mine, Father.” I spun on my heel and stormed out, slamming the door behind me.

From inside the study, I heard my mother say, “Really, Nicholas, I wish you’d discussed this with me first.”

Hurrying down the hall, I ignored the servants who scurried away trying to pretend they hadn’t been eavesdropping. My favorite maid, Samena, sent me a sympathetic look, which only made me feel more wretched.

I climbed the stairs to my room, then threw myself down on my window seat and looked out over the palace grounds. They were vast and vibrant, the first leaves beginning to change color for autumn. However, for all their splendor, I may as well have been staring at four blank walls.

My fate had been decided. In a few weeks, I’d likely be married to a stranger and forced to leave my home. A tear trickled down my cheek, but I swiped it away, telling myself I didn’t care. My father certainly didn’t, and my mother seemed more concerned that she hadn’t been able to weigh in on the plan than the actual outcome.

I pulled my knees to my chest and let my tears fall freely. For all my wealth, status, and titles, what was I really, but a commodity?

 

Chapter 3– KAINDA –

“Kainda, isn’t it?” Prince Ander asked as I entered the parlor. He was reclined in a plush wingback chair across from the fireplace, his long legs stretched out and arms languid by his sides.

“Yes, Your Highness.” I curtsied, almost tipping over in the process as I tried to calm my racing heart.

“Please have a seat.” Prince Ander motioned to a matching chair across from him.

This was it. He was going to dismiss me for the incident at the meeting today. He’d just chosen not to do it earlier in front of an audience. My throat went dry as I thought about my mother. How would I take care of her now? No wonder Greta had been so smug in the kitchen.

“If I may, Your Majesty.” I folded my hands in my lap as I sat down. At this point, I was not above begging. “I sincerely apologize for my behavior today. I know it was completely inappropriate, but I promise, nothing like that will ever happen again. Sometimes, I don’t think before I act, but I assure you, I’m—”

He held up a hand. “Do you always talk this much?”

I shrugged. “When the occasion calls for it.”

“I see.” He stood and walked to the fireplace, turning his back to me. “I had quite the report about you from Madam Prudence . . .”

I swallowed slowly, knowing whatever the head maid had said about me wouldn’t be good. “And what did she say?”

“Let’s see . . . Daydreams during her work. Not punctual. Terribly untidy. A poor cook.” He stared into the flames, continuing his litany of my offenses as if they bored him. “Apparently, now we can add ‘likes impersonating knights’ to that list as well.”

My back stiffened. Clearly, the prince was intent on humiliating me before dismissing me.

“In fact,” he went on, “it didn’t sound like Madam Prudence was impressed with you at all.”

“Very well.” I cleared my throat, not at all appreciating his game. “I’ll pack my belongings and make arrangements to leave the castle as soon as possible.”

“Now hold on a minute.” He tore his gaze from the crackling fire. “I think you may have misunderstood.”

I shifted in my seat. “No, I think your meaning is quite clear. You have no use for me in this kingdom, so I’m being dismissed for my behavior today.”

He waved his hand. “Being curious is not a crime. In fact, I rather like that tenacity in my knights. Which is why I’m asking you to be a part of my team.”

“You’re what?”

He sat again and leaned forward. “I talked with scores of knights today, and not one of them seemed to know as much about hunting beasts as you.”

“So . . . you’re not dismissing me?”

“No, I’m not dismissing you.” His lips quirked into a smile. “I was simply pointing out that you don’t seem to be very happy with—or well suited to—your job as a maid . . . and maybe you’d be interested in another opportunity.”

“And just what opportunity is that?” I didn’t trust him one bit. I knew he was well aware of what his words had implied.

“I have a team of some of the most highly skilled knights that you could imagine. However, the one thing we don’t have is knowledge of our foe. That’s where you come in. After the meeting today, I checked my library about what you said. It’s all true.”

He nodded to a nearby table where several large books sat. “So that tells me you do, in fact, have some understanding of beasts and how to hunt them.” He scrutinized me. “Now, I’m not sure I agree with you that the beast that’s troubling Fernshire could actually be a dragon . . . Although, if that is the case, I haven’t the first idea on how to defeat it. But I think you might.”

His words were so surprising, I was almost rendered speechless. But that wasn’t something that usually happened to me. “So what are you asking me to do, exactly?”

“Join my team, as I said. Come with us to Fernshire and share your knowledge. Look at the signs the monster has left behind, then help us identify it and come up with a plan to defeat it. You obviously won’t be expected to fight the beast. You’ll be there as . . . an adviser, if you will.”

I narrowed my eyes. “And what’s in it for me?”

He tapped his fingers together. “You mean besides the fact that you’ll get to relinquish the grand title of The Worst Maid Galesmore Has Ever Seen?” He paused. “You’ll be compensated handsomely for your time. So much, that you shouldn’t need to be a maid ever again.”

I still couldn’t believe he was genuine with his offer.

“My mother is ill,” I said, unsure if I was pushing my luck or testing the authenticity of his words. “I’m the only one she has, and almost all of my wage goes toward her care. She lives in town, but I visit her as often as I can. I want her to live at the castle while I’m gone, with care from the royal physician.”

“Done.” Prince Ander held out his hand for me to shake.

“And”—I kept my hands firmly in my lap—“I want Larkin to come on the mission too.”

“Who?” He furrowed his brow and pulled his hand back slightly.

“He’s one of your knights.” I resisted the urge to scoff. Some prince he was, he didn’t even know the names of his own knights. “And my best friend.”

“Ah, so that’s where you got the armor from.” He smirked, then nodded. “Fine, Lorken can come too.”

“Larkin,” I corrected him.

“Right, Larkin. So do we have a deal?”

“Not quite.”

He groaned. “What else do you want? A stake in the kingdom? A goose that lays golden eggs?”

“I want to be part of all of it. I don’t just want to help you find this monster. I want to help you kill it too.”

He stared at me. “I’m sorry, but I can’t allow that. It’s much too dangerous.”

“I’m excellent with a bow and arrow, and I ride well. I know how to use a sword, and I spent years hunting with my father in many different lands. I’m not scared. Besides, I won’t be much help to you sitting in some castle on a velvet pillow. I need to be out there in the thick of it—tracking, not just advising.” I crossed my arms. “Either I help you completely or not at all.”

Prince Ander rubbed his forehead. “Are you always this much trouble?”

“So I’ve been told.”

He sighed. “All right. I’ll consider allowing you to come on our expeditions, but”—he held up his hand—“you need to prove to me that you can really do all those things. If at any moment you can’t keep up with the knights, you will take a less active role in this hunt.” He held his hand out again. “So do we have a deal?”

I took his hand and shook it firmly. “Deal.”

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