Chapter Twelve

During a tense meal, Casteel asserts his authority over Alastir and the guards, insists Poppy is not the Maiden, and warns Alastir against using the title. When Alastir questions Casteel’s engagement, Poppy acknowledges the former ransom plan. Alastir presses whether marriage is leverage for Malik or the kingdom, and Casteel claims his feelings for Poppy are genuine while conceding the union improves bargaining power and could help reclaim Atlantian land without war.

Alastir warns of unrest among Atlantians and wolven and hints at King Valyn’s growing alignment with harder tactics. He questions marrying an outsider, and Casteel vows his people will accept Poppy because he does. When Alastir asks to speak to Poppy alone to ensure she isn’t coerced, Casteel allows it, stressing Poppy can defend herself and must be guarded well.

In the corridors, Poppy reveals her combat training and Vikter’s secret tutelage. Alastir probes how she reconciles Vikter’s death with loving Casteel; Poppy admits pain but separates it from her feelings. Alastir then discloses Casteel was once engaged to his wolven daughter, Shea, who died long ago, explaining his caution and hope that Casteel’s motives are truly personal, not solely about Malik.

Alastir offers Poppy safe escape from both Solis and Casteel if she is being forced. Moved by his sincerity, Poppy refuses, choosing to stay for Ian and to help change Solis. They part with an agreement that if she ever changes her mind, she will tell him.

Before returning, Poppy asks about her parents’ departure from the capital and whether they might have known of Atlantian helpers. Alastir says others assisted such escapes, many lost, and promises to ask contacts if anyone remembers Coralena and Leopold. He notes trauma can blur memory, and they head back to Casteel.