Chapter Twelve

In early afternoon, Poppy sits in the sunlit atrium with Tawny. Two Ladies in Wait, Dafina and Loren, arrive uninvited, risking censure for proximity to the Maiden. Hawke stands guard with sharp vigilance, a marked contrast to Rylan’s former laxness, and his presence keeps Poppy tense and hyperaware.

Dafina and Loren openly flirt with Hawke and gossip about the Red Pearl. Their talk shifts to rumors that Prince Casteel was seen in Three Rivers and seduced Duchess Everton to infiltrate Goldcrest Manor. Tawny warns them about treasonous speech. When Loren calls rebellion “intriguing,” Poppy breaks protocol to rebuke her, revealing compassion for potential victims.

Poppy’s empathic gift suddenly surges toward Loren without warning, making Poppy feel conflicting excitement and fear, which unsettles her until the sensation passes. The Ladies hastily depart. Tawny presses Poppy about Hawke recognizing her from the Red Pearl, but Poppy avoids confronting the truth while privately drawn to him.

Hawke approaches with teasing familiarity, uses Poppy’s nickname, and banters about his “many talents,” mirroring the charm he showed at the Red Pearl. He then delivers a summons from the Duke. Anxiety spikes as Poppy wonders if this is about Lord Mazeen’s threat, her unveiling, her dagger, or even the Red Pearl.

As Hawke escorts her through the castle, they trade quiet barbs and near-confessions; he hints he has seen her watching him train. At the Duke’s private suite, Hawke waits outside while Poppy enters the dim room, finding Duke Teerman with Lord Mazeen. The Duke rises and declares himself “incredibly disappointed,” signaling impending punishment.