A Gentle Threat

Lola led the way to the castle gates, where a gleaming golden chariot was drawn up in front, and on either side of it a dozen soldiers in black armour stood in a line. The duchess, who was sitting in the carriage, with a veil of black lace over her face, gave me a slight nod when she saw me through the window. I was lifted into the carriage by Lola, and Catherland sat across from me. She whispered to the footman standing by the carriage, "Let's go!" "Where are we going?" The carriage moved slowly, with the clatter of hoofs on the floor. I glanced round the window as the carriage picked up speed and the view flashed before my eyes. A sense of uneasiness came over me, and I looked at Catherland. Beneath her black veil she seemed remarkably calm. Her violet eyes stared back at me as if she had something on her mind. "We're going to Rose!" There was resignation in Catherland's voice, "That's Princess Madeleine's estate!" "So we're going to meet Princess Madeleine?" I frowned, "Why?" "Nick