Page 49 of Witch’s Ruin

“All right. I do enjoy high stakes. I’d like to see how my fastest Lagaras measure up against the prized Akeron horse of Krysinski’s stables.”

I swallowed. “And Jarrow is your winning prize?”

“Yes. What is yours?”

My mind spun with possibility. We had an audience, those closest at the table. There were certain requests the king would outright refuse. My first thought was Trudy Holland—calling off the engagement. But that would have been worth little in the grand scheme of things. I planned to have Rixon far away from here before the wedding happened.

I needed something less selfish.

“The witches,” I decided.

His expression turned wary. “What about them?”

“If I win, you allow the witches and their welders out after curfew to hunt demons in the streets.”

He leaned back, something flashing across his expression. Then he smiled. I didn’t exactly like the look of it. “Well, played, Lady Witch. Well played, indeed. All right. If my Lagaras win, I take Jarrow, if Jarrow wins, I shall fulfill your request.”

Butterflies fluttered to life in my stomach. I didn’t dare look at Rixon, even if I could picture his expression. His shock.

“What say you?” The king addressed the rest of the table. “A race, to offer up some entertainment?”

A feminine squeal—Trudy Holland clapped her hands together in delight. Others lifted their goblets indicating their agreement. There was no backing out now.

I sat up straighter in my chair. Something, nerves perhaps, prompted me to say, “Are you sure this is a good idea, Your Majesty? Jarrow is used to outrunning demons. A couple of Lagaras won’t be so difficult.”

My voice came out even, hiding my sudden misgivings.

Almost as if he could read my thoughts, he said, “There will be no backing out, now.” He lifted his goblet and drank deeply. “Shall we say tomorrow afternoon, then? Two o’clock?”

I opened my mouth and spoke before I had the chance to reconsider. “You’re on.”

Chapter 16

Rixon

Rixon eyed his witch in the darkness. They stood outside the tunnel dumping into the river. “He’s up to something.” The words were out of his mouth before he could stop them.

“I’m not disagreeing,” Mina said, biting her lip, peering into the darkness. “But I have my own agenda.”

He trusted her. This was all part of her strategy. Winning the race would give her an upper hand in solving the demon issue.

He considered, then changed the subject. “Did you know?” His voice dropped low, serious.

“That my father sold the king horses? Yes, I had a hunch. He used to take the trip once a year. He would leave for about three weeks. He loved it, visiting the capital during the racing season. It’s where he made his biggest fortunes. Selling to all the stables that brought competitors from all over Raeria.”

Rixon grunted. He remembered those races as a boy, forced into attendance by his father. Despite his reluctance, once he was out of the palace, he enjoyed them. But he’d never felt the same love and eagerness that his father did.

“Jarrow will certainly be up for the task,” he found himself saying. He didn’t let himself consider the alternative—what would happen if Jarrow lost.

Mina laughed. He let the sweet sound of it brush over him, failing to hide the smile it brought. “He’s a fierce competitor. He won’t let anyone get the better of him.”

“I would expect nothing less.”

“I daresay he might even get violent, if it comes down to it. I would not be surprised if he sabotages the entire race, just to ensure he comes out in the lead.”

Rixon looked over her expression. “You’re actually excited about this, aren’t you?”

“I…I shouldn’t be. But, I’m a little nervous, too. I won’t let him take Jarrow. I’ll fight tooth and claw before that happens.” Blackness bled into her eyes.