It was an effort to keep my features calm and even. “I think we need to focus on finding a way into the dungeons under the Montagne mansion. Tell me about them again.”
Amelia frowned. “I already did.” We’d discussed them for a long time on the ride over. Amelia knew there were old dungeons under the castle. Most likely, those had been refurbished to make a magickal prison.
“One last time.” Talking always calmed Amelia, and my friend seemed to be unraveling as we neared the front door.
“Philippe and I came here as children. We’d always end up playing in the garden. There’s a huge stretch of land behind the castle. The older boys would threaten to throw the girls into the old dungeon. There were these wells in the gardens, you see. If you pulled out the copper basins, then you’d find out that they are actually old airshafts for the dungeon below. One of the Montagne girls even fell in once by mistake. Broke her leg and everything.”
I nodded slowly as if this was the first time Amelia told the story. We’d discussed the plan on the ride over. Even so, it felt good to say it one last time. “Once it becomes dark, we’ll split up and look for the different wells.”
Amelia twisted the folds of her skirt with her fingers. “I still worry about the Fantomes.”
“They’re holding the play in the gardens, right?” I didn’t wait for Amelia to answer. We both knew this to be true. “They’ll be hundreds of Royals walking about the garden paths and looking into the wells. All we need do tonight is find which well leads to the dungeons.” I planned to do more, if possible, but Amelia didn’t need to know that. “We still have until tomorrow at midnight to save everyone.”
“You’re right. It’s just a quiet walk through the gardens. What could go wrong?” The wagon rolled to a stop. Amelia gave my hands a shaky squeeze. “We’re here.”
The carriage’s half door swung open, and my heart leaped into my throat. This was it. Ada could be here.
I steeled my features and peeped outside. Philippe stood at the base of the staircase, looking dapper in his purple velvet overcoat. He offered me his hand to help me down from the carriage. I didn’t need any assistance, but I also didn’t need to attract any attention. “Thank you.”
I took Philippe’s hand and stepped down. Amelia followed along behind me, and together we all walked up the golden staircase to our hosts. The willowy Baroness and Baron greeted Amelia and Philippe with barely-there kisses on either cheek. When it came time for my greeting, they scrunched up their noses as if a small turd had been placed before them.
I stifled the urge to roll my eyes. Point taken. I’m not Royal and don’t belong here.
Amelia and I curtsied low. Philippe bowed gallantly. The ritual of greeting was over. The tension in my chest loosened up a little.
That had been quite easy. Now all that remained was a walk in the gardens.
I wanted to cheer. Things would go smoothly. I knew it.
I slipped past the Baron and Baroness into the castle proper. From tapestries to rugs and tables, the mansion was a monotone of white and gray. Servants scurried about everywhere. Royals huddled in small circles of conversation. There was no sign of the Vicomte. Good. I scanned the crowd more closely. No traces of the Fantomes, either. Even better.
Amelia began to follow me inside. The Baroness moved to block her. “One moment, Amelia.”
I was so close now. It would be easy to slip off into the crowd. But I couldn’t leave Amelia alone. My friend was already trembling.
Even so, Amelia bravely forced on a large smile. Her doll-like face was the picture of innocence. “Yes, Baroness?”
“The Baron and I have heard of your impending—how do I say it—boost in status?”
Amelia blinked. “I’m sure I don’t know what you mean.”
I stifled the urge to roll my eyes. If news of Amelia’s engagement was already circulating, then there would be far more scrutiny on us.
Stay positive. Things are going easily for once. Believe that, and it will come true.
Our hosts exchanged knowing looks. The Baron was the first to speak. “We have a great honor we’d like to bestow on you.” He straightened the lapels of his white silk longcoat. “We’d like you to play Theodora in the play tonight.”
Worry tightened around my throat. Giving Amelia a part in the play? That would be a disaster. We’d be forced to prepare for the performance instead of look around. “Perhaps next year,” I offered. “Amelia hasn’t practiced.”
“But we insist,” said Baroness. “And there is no speaking to this play. All our dear girl needs to do is fall down, step through a gate, and come back carrying a sword. What could be simpler?”
Amelia hugged her elbows. “It’s too much of an honor for me. Wouldn’t one of the other Ladies be offended?”
“Nonsense. You’re from the House of Theodora. Who else should play the role?” The Baroness tossed her head, making her white-blonde hair move in a single perfect wave. “And besides, it’s about time your family participated again.”