Chapter 26: Standing Accused

Executions were too frequent an occurrence in the Usurper’s Kingdom. Among the many rumors and spiteful titles that circulated about Darreth Vireylon, one name coined by allies and enemies alike was the Crimson River Carver. Despite how many of his people feared him, the people of Lupercal somehow still showed up to these public displays of violent consequence. Whether jeering at the executees was done out of genuine malice, or fearful compliance with the regime, or just relief that the focus was on someone else, Aster was not sure he wanted to know.

As he wove through the crowds gathered at the foot of the palace steps, he had to jump and stretch onto his toes to see. The closer he got, the more he was able to put together a basic image of what was happening up on the block.