Kingdom of Ash (Throne of Glass, #7)

by Sarah J. Maas

The dark-haired beauty said a shade too quietly, “What is your name, child?” “Finnula,” Elide lied, naming her nursemaid. “Here’s a bit of advice,” the second male drawled, sipping from his ale. “If you escaped Cairn, don’t go looking for him again.” His commander shot him a look. “Cairn is blood-sworn to our queen.” “Still makes him a prick,” the male said. The female growled, viciously enough that the male wisely went to see about their drinks. Elide made her shoulders curve inward. “You—you know him, then?” “Cairn was supposed to meet you here?” the beauty asked instead. Elide nodded. The two females exchanged glances. The commander said, “We don’t know where he is.” Lie. She saw the look between them, between sisters. The decision to not tell her, either to protect the helpless mortal girl they believed her to be, or out of some loyalty to him. Or perhaps to all Fae who decided to find beds in mortal realms and then ignore the consequences months later. Lorcan had been the result of such a union, and then discarded to the mercy of these streets. The thought was enough to set her grinding her teeth, but Elide kept her jaw relaxed. Don’t be angry, Finnula had taught her. Be smart. She made note of that. Not to appear too pathetic at the next tavern. Or like a jilted lover who might be carrying his child. For she’d have to go to another one. And if she got an answer the next time, she’d have to go to another after that to confirm it. “Is—is the queen in residence?” Elide ...