“Myself,” I replied. XXX I would never have been able to do it, but for some reason the Queen wanted me to learn how to read and write. As I looked out at my sisters it all came into focus in my head as if it were a vision. I am third in line to the throne of Queen Zara– actually second now that Malika, heir to the throne, has disgraced herself. The arena was totally quiet as I stood and faced her. A different leather took its place, tied as tight or even tighter. The despicable assassin was quite willing to accidentally meet her and then slowly draw her under his spell. Changing Malika’s name was not a mere whim of the Queen. Jewels and trinkets, however, can be turned into gold coins.
