Summary

In Chapter 12, “Poisoner,” Owen follows Ankarette to the tallest tower of the castle. Everyone in the castle believes that someone else is in charge of the tower, so no one goes there. Though Ankarette is still loyal to the queen dowager, even she does not know where Ankarette lives. Owen is breathing hard by the time they climb all the steps. The room is filled with items needed by an herbalist. They play Wizr and Ankarette quickly wins, then promises to teach Owen some strategies. Ankarette addresses the fact that she is the queen's poisoner, but pledges that Owen does not need to fear her and that she seeks non-violent answers. She also says the queen would not order Severn's death because the country would fall into chaos. Ankarette is obviously in pain and says she is tired. She says, “It was nice...