Page 83 of Queen’s Gambit

Irsha knew my nickname for Tova, but would he pick up on my clumsy clue?

Understanding brightened his eyes, and he nodded as I knelt beside him. Niersen snapped out of his stupor when emerald power pulsed in my hand.

‘Damned idiot should have collared you.’

‘Are you questioning my decisions?’ The Prefect stood in the doorway carrying a tray of food. ‘Roksana and I have an accord. And judging by the fact you’re still alive, she’s kept her side of the bargain. As soon as she heals him, take him away and keep him safe.’

He placed the tray on the table. ‘Finish with his wound, then eat. The carriage will be ready in half an hour.’

Our captors moved to the window, leaving Irsha with me. I wished I could talk to him, plan our escape, but Niersen was still in his head, and the only way to be free was to act unpredictably.

Instead, I nibbled on the bread whilst forcing Irsha to eat the lion’s share of my meal.

‘Enough. It’s time to go. Niersen, take your prisoner and leave,’ Siras commanded. A moment later, we were alone in the room.

‘The Herald insists I kill you,’ Siras said, passing me a cloak.

‘May I insist you kill him too?’ I quipped, and he sighed.

‘In Tangra, women don’t question their men. They often don’t speak at all, especially to strangers. I always considered it a ridiculous rule… until I met you.’

‘Oh, that’s so interesting.’ I placed a hand on my chest. ‘I’m so honoured to be such a bad influence.’

‘Temper your words, Roksana. Especially in front of the Hierophant. I may find you entertaining, but I assure you he won’t,’ he said, gesturing toward the door.

‘Let me use the bath chamber first, please?’ I asked. When his eyebrow rose, I rolled my eyes. ‘Siras, you wanted me to eat. Now I need to pee.’

After what he’d told me about Tangrian women, I shouldn’t have been surprised by his horrified expression. Watching him open and close his mouth like a helpless fish was so worth it.

‘Make it quick.’

I rushed to the bathroom and opened the faucet to fill the small basin.

‘In Vodnik’s name, show yourself, Bannik,’ I called into the empty room, keeping my voice low enough for the flowing water to drown it out.

‘What do you need, human?’ A shadow of an old man materialised on the surface.

‘Where is the dwarf I left by the river?’ I asked, but he shook his head.

‘That I do not know, but I can ask around and tell you later.’

‘There’s no time for that. Find him. Tell him to follow the soldiers and that Irsha is under a spell. Then tell him to find a way to meet me and bring augurec,’ I requested as heavy footsteps approached.

‘Roksana?’ Suspicion sharpened Siras’ voice.

I turned back to Bannik, but the household spirit was already gone, leaving me unsure if my message would reach Tova.

‘Roksana!’ Siras pounded on the door, falling forward when I yanked it open. ‘Who were you talking with?’ he asked, looking around.

‘The mirror. I was trying to convince myself to help you, but you keep making it difficult.’ I rolled my eyes, and for a second, the Prefect looked almost sheepish before his expression hardened.

‘That’s enough. Let’s go.’

I had to trot to keep up. When we arrived at the courtyard, Niersen’s soldiers were still getting ready. Siras escorted me to a carriage that looked suspiciously like a prison wagon. Then he jumped onto the horse beside it.

‘You’re riding all the way to Tivala’s castle?’ I asked.

‘We aren’t going to Ernesto’s castle. I’m taking you to the Hierophant. And the Gate,’ he said, signalling the start of the journey.