Chapters 11 - 15 Summary

Cassia: The palace in Petra is impossible to miss. Cassia is extremely nervous before entering, and has worn her best silk dress, the one she was only allowed to wear for Aretas' schemes. Even though she looks beautiful, Cassia still feels poor, and she nervously smooths Alexander's hair repeatedly. Inside the palace, Cassia is immediately greeted by the slaves who seem to be expecting her. When the slave who brings Cassia to the throne room states that Cassia is to meet with the queen, she realizes that the king has married again. She hadn't expected this; the new queen will have no emotional ties to Alexander and might even feel jealous of him. Cassia insists on meeting with the king but the slave ignores her. Hagiru is awaiting Cassia's arrival perched on the King's throne so as to look as powerful...