Chapter 49 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.