#Chapter 48: Royal Orders

The gathered crowd quieted at Nicholas and Julian’s declaration. The King narrowed his gaze. “You are saying that Piper did this.” “Yes,” Nicholas said without hesitation. Around us, the speculative gazes of the onlookers were more than enough to tell of their disbelief. Yet before they could make me nervous, Julian’s easy laughter claimed everyone’s attention. “Have you all forgotten how talented Piper is with a bow? She nearly matched me shot for shot during our archery event.” No one could deny the truth of that. Soon the speculative glances returned more to ones of annoyance and jealousy. “Very good, Piper.” The King studied me closely, draped over Nicholas’s back as I was. “Though it seems you have gotten injured.” “A twisted ankle,” I said. “I will have the physician make certain she is well,” Nicholas added. The King moved his probing eyes to Nicholas. “Send a servant to do so.” Nicholas tensed beneath me. “Yes, sir.” Moving from us, the King approached Nathan. “Send