Two weeks after Philippa's Name Day, and Bardulf finally arrived in Asaya. He rushed into the Castle courtyard and shifted into his human form right in front of Ernest, who gave him a robe with a grim face. His voice was harsh as he asked, "Where is she?"
"She has locked herself up with the Princess and won't come out. No one can coax her to step one foot out of those chambers."
An Asayan soldier handed Bardulf some food and a skin of water. He nodded his thanks before asking, "What happened?"
Ernest explained as they made their way into the castle and up to the Princess's quarters. With each word, Bardulf grew angrier and more solemn. Not only had Philippa been attacked, she had to kill Jared.
Just as they reached Jaqueline's door, the princess came out, closing it softly behind her. She did not look surprised to see the King standing there and said, "She is sleeping, but I do not suspect for long. May I have a word with you before you see her?"
