The Foxglove King (The Nightshade Crown #1)

by Hannah F. Whitten

No one is more patient than the dead. —Auverrani proverb

Those born to darkness will carry it in their nature; they will carry sin in their very selves, body and mind and soul. —The Book of Mortal Law, Tract 7

she looked worse than a revenant, which was really saying something.

“A foxglove for a foxglove.” Bastian handed it to her with a bow and a flourish. “Beautiful and poisonous. Much like yourself, if I may be so bold as to make an assessment after our brief acquaintance.”

“Are you so accustomed to being used that you don’t realize when it’s happening, as long as it’s done kindly?” She had no answer for that.

The bonds of family are sacred, but they are not always bound in blood. —Myroshan proverb

“You aren’t.” It came out hoarse; she swallowed. “You aren’t alone, Bastian. I feel it, too.” Then she turned and started forward again. Behind her, Bastian pulled in a ragged sigh, and followed.