425 "I know you"

Damon paled instantly, and his eyes widened at once. 

He remembered the words she had said to him the last time she had privately met with him to convince him to blame the queen and Ivan.

 "Do not give anyone a reason to be suspicious of you and your blind loyalty to the queen. I understand that you cannot help it, but now is the time to free yourself from that commitment and do what is right."

He had merely thought she was bluffing, even with the subtle threat of an unpleasant rumour spreading in the kingdom. 

She revelled in his reaction. Seeing him look so terrified brought her great pleasure, and she began to cackle. She looked up, laughing so loudly, while Damon turned his attention towards the door to be sure no one was there. 

"You... t-that is nonsense—"