Chapter 15
Sabine found it difficult to enjoy her time on the ship with Captain Higman following her around like a dog. She snorted, realizing he reminded her of Harta. At least she would be reunited with her dog soon.
Standing at the bow of the ship, she watched the lush landscape pass by as the vessel cut around the land, heading for the small port not far away. Sabine imagined Evander doing this very thing only weeks ago when he’d arrived here with his delegation. That had been on her wedding day. The irony wasn’t lost on her.
“Are you doing okay?” Otto asked as he came to stand beside her. He gripped the railing, scanning the land before them. “There are a lot of hills. And everything is so…green.”
She chuckled. “I’m fine. And yes, it’s a vastly different climate than you’re used to.” She hoped he could stay for a bit before he returned home. Having him nearby felt reassuring. However, it also made her nervous knowing what Rainer was capable of. The last thing she wanted was for her brother to be hurt in some way. Same with Markis. As soon as it was safe, she needed to send Markis home. Hopefully he could accompany Otto and the missing Bakley children.
Speaking of which, she was curious to hear Rainer’s explanation of events. She still didn’t know what to believe.
Drumming her fingers on the railing, Sabine realized the first thing she needed to address with Rainer was Lottie. She couldn’t very well have her sister-in-law plotting to kill her. Rolling her shoulders back, she wondered when Lottie would marry Evander.
“You seem tense,” Otto murmured.
“I’m fine.”
As the ship neared the dock, Sabine caught sight of dozens and dozens of Lynk soldiers standing at attention. A chill slid over her. “How did they know we were coming?” she asked her brother.
“I’m sure Rainer has watch towers.” He put his hand on her lower back. “It’s going to be okay.”
Given what happened with the Avoni delegation, perhaps the Bakley soldiers accompanying them should remain here on the ship. If Rainer had planted poison and cut holes in the Avoni ship, he could do the same with this one.
“You and Markis will be the only two disembarking. Are we clear?”
“Yes.”
“No one from Lynk is allowed to step foot on this ship.”
He eyed her but didn’t argue. “Okay.” He went over and spoke to one of his men.
The ship reached the dock and the soldiers ran around the deck, securing the sails and dropping the anchor. The gangplank was extended.
Captain Higman joined them. “Let’s go.” He reached for Sabine’s arm.
She leaned back, away from him. “That’s Your Majesty to you, and you will not lay a hand on me.” One of the first things she needed to do was discuss this matter with Rainer. His men needed to speak to her appropriately.
Turning away from Higman, she gazed out at the rows upon rows of soldiers standing at attention. This was not the welcome she expected or hoped for. She spotted Rainer standing slightly in front of his men, his sword strapped to his waist. She shivered. He looked fierce and commanding. She thought she’d have the journey to the palace to figure out how to handle her first meeting with Rainer. However, it appeared she’d be reunited with him in five minutes.
Whatever happened, Rainer had to believe he had the upper hand. He couldn’t see her as a challenge or threat.
“Are you ready?” Markis asked, coming to stand at her side.
She looked into his eyes. She was not ready. In fact, she was terrified to step foot off this ship. Rainer could welcome or arrest her. She truly had no idea what his response would be. However, there was only one way to find out. Besides, she had to prevent a war and make sure Lottie paid for her crimes.
“Yes,” she said. “I’m ready.”