What do you think of the situation Illian has put Laurent in? Is getting what he wants truly worth all the suffering he is causing those under him? Do you believe Illian will get his comeuppance for all the horrible things he is doing?
Why do you think Vasalie didn’t offer her services and instead offered the excuse that she is slow?
Laurent believes that only King Anton knows about the passages, but do you think this is true?
Laurent warns Vasalie that something big is happening. Do you think this is happening because of Illian or despite him and his best efforts?
What do you make of Illian and the Brisendali working together? Do you think he is aware of Vasalie’s true heritage, and it is one of the reasons why he is blackmailing her?
Do you think Laurent is right in that Illian is aiding Brisendale?
Copelan shifts from staying safe and not attracting attention to giving in to taking risks. What do you think spurred this change?
What do you think of Marian being the person Laurent helped?
Will Vasalie be forced to reveal the tunnels even though she has been asked and begged not to reveal them?
What do you think of the placement of the sea glass walls and the opportunity they provide to spy? Do you recall a chapter where Vasalie was looking at the sea glass mosaic of Illian, and she thought she was staring into his eyes? Do you think that it could have been Illian behind the sea glass wall?
Vasalie thinks that Annais is just as bound as she is. Do you think this is true?
Do you have something as cherished as dancing is to Vasalie?
Vasalie believes that Anton observes her because he is suspicious. Do you think that he observes her for a different reason? Or perhaps there could be more than one reason?
When Anton questions Vasalie again on why she dances, Vasalie answers superficially (to an extent), but Anton answers truthfully. Why do you think Anton opened to Vasalie like this?
What do you think of the two of them deflecting right after this vulnerable moment?
What starts as a friendly moment between Marian and Vasalie quickly turns sour. Do you think the general’s treatment of Marian will go unpunished? What do you think or hope will happen to Vasalie’s father?
Do you think Vasalie will be able to ruin her father?
What are your first impressions of King Estienne?
What do you think of Anton trying to spare Vasalie from King Estienne’s court antics, and him buying those on auction?
14 responses to “A Dance of Lies – Day Four”
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I feel there’s something bigger going on that Vasalie isn’t aware of yet. All the schemes without direct communication as to what Vasalie is supposed to do is very suspicious. I really hope there’s some retribution or karma coming Illian’s way for all the pain and suffering he has put her (and indirectly-directly others) through.
Vasalie had to manipulate her way into getting what Illian wanted to happen, to happen. Her excuse that she’s “slow” might not ever be that far off given her limited mobility after the 2 years imprisonment.
I hope so. There’s nothing indicating that the other’s know about them yet, but I really wouldn’t be surprised if it turns out that Illian was well aware of the passages and made use of them for this schemes.
Oh I am 100% placing all my bet money on both Illian and Vasalie’s father for this one. Illian’s been set up as the main villain of the story and Vasalie’s father, by just being there when he’s not supposed to be, is already a red flag in my head.
I actually wouldn’t be surprised if both Illian and her father are already well aware of the fact that he is her father. Their alliance says enough in this regard. And even if they don’t know, the knowledge would only be beneficial to them and would strengthen whatever “alliance” they already have.
No doubt in my mind, yes. He seems the type.
It’s a very suspicious change… I mentioned before that I think Copelan’s attraction is partly (or mainly) due to a level of jealousy that he feels towards Vasalie and her growing reputation as dancer. I suspect this change is his form of trying to attain that level of fame for himself too.
I’m so so happy Marian has entered the story!! I was hoping to see Brigitte again but seeing her daughter is just as nice! I’m so happy to see that she’s the one Laurent has helped and that she’s doing well.
If not by force, I think she’ll unknowingly do it. I have a feeling that Illian’s been stationing his staff very strategically all over the place and that one might see Vasalie enter the tunnels or even follow her and then find the tunnels (THAT IS, if they don’t already know about them). I’m hoping for the best, but fantasy precedent says something bad will most definitely happen 😔
It’s so smart!! And it speaks volumes of Anton’s character – the nonchalant king with a pretty face that studies people has a pretty window facade that also spies on people. The author was absolutely genius for this little detail! And now that you mention it, it would be really creepy if Illian was in fact looking at her that time around 😳 It would mean that he’s well aware of the tunnels and is already using them to his benefit.
It definitely seems to be true. The fact that she’s not talking at all and that she’s simply spending her time sowing makes me feel she’s bound in her own predicament. I’m scared of what Illian will do to/with her.
Aw as much as Vasalie loves dancing, I absolutely love reading! It’s my escape from a very chaotic and busy reality.
I think suspicion definitely plays a part here, but there’s also some romantic attraction that I’m sensing. He might be calling it suspicion, but I think in reality it’s the second option.
See above ^. He’s showing her that he can be trusted to tell the truth and that she can trust him to also tell him her truth. It’s a smart move that he’s playing – it both allows him to learn more about Illian’s plans and he gets to know her better.
I wish it didn’t end!! They were making such good progress…
It most likely will. He’s still a higher authority and she’s but a cellar manager. Though I wish Anton could berate and arrest him for assaulting Marian, I highly doubt anything will happen…
It’s times like these that I’m really understanding Vasalie’s views of her father and that I’m hoping she gets her revenge. Not only for herself, but for Marian and her stepmother too.
He’s… a character… 😳 That was definitely an introduction… It’s so interesting to see how the three brother differ and what aspects of being a king they decide to focus on. Illian craves the control, Anton the fame, and Estienne the fear that comes with the title.
Vasalie sees it as him expanding his “court”, but I don’t think I agree. After seeing how desperate he was to remove Vasalie from the room and the overall situation, I believe his intentions were noble. He had a part to play as king – to look powerful and in control – but I think he bought them in order to set them free & to end the charades. I’m really starting to like his character.
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Illian is honestly the worst person. I think he put Laurent in the situation as a way to give Vasalie a chance to sneak the tailor in. Illian is acting very selfishly and he really doesn’t care what he destroys to get what he wants, but I definitely believe that he will get what he deserves in the end.
Because at the end of the day she too is willing to do anything to ensure her freedom. Her freedom now isn’t only from Illian’s kingdom but Illian as well.
No, one of his guards might also be working for Illian as he has so many spies in the palace.
I think everything leads back to Illian. He has shown that he is willing to do anything to get his way. And after what he did to Vasalie he’s very much capable of starting a war just to get what he wants.
Definitely, right now I believe anything bad all leads back to Illian. Illian might even know who Vasalie’s father is and roped him in but still kept Vasalie a secret for him. Or maybe he knows way more about Vasalie than she knows and threatened to expose her father. But then again that man also doesn’t need threatening to do bad things.
It might be greed to be seen or maybe now that knows more about Vasalie, and trusts her, he’s willing to put a little more faith in her with their performances.
This was such a full circle moment, but I knew we would meet her eventually. But now I want to know what the connection is because not much is said about how and why he came to help her.
I don’t think so because I suspect Illian already knows. But I also think she wouldn’t tell him out of her own.
Anton is definitely smarter than be think he is. This also adds to the fact that he loves to observe people. I don’t think really think it was Illian. Maybe it was Anton and by the way she looked at the mosaic was what made him wonder if she doesn’t work for her brother.
She is most probably. I don’t know why I get the feeling that her tongue is cut out. Also I have a feeling that Vasalie isn’t the first person Illian framed of something just so he could blackmail them into doing things for him.
My love for music and reading. Both I’ve used over the years as an escape. In a way music is like a story too. A lot of the music I listen to has a message they want to send or a story they are telling.
I think there is more than one reason. Maybe it started out as suspicion but I think he’s also intrigued.
I think Anton wants to gain Vasalie’s trust, thinking if he is honest with her she will start opening up and be honest with him.
They deflected as a way of protecting themselves. Even though both try to be as honest, as much as they are allowing themselves to be, I think both of them have a dark past to hide. Something dark enough for them to want to keep their walls up. We already know a lot about Vasalie, but this makes me wonder what Anton is hiding. What is it that he can’t have. And maybe it’s a deeper connection with someone as most of the people around him most probably just entertain his needs because they want something from him.
I think it will go unpunished for now, because who really can they report this to if Marian basically doesn’t even exist within the palace. I think he will eventually be exposed for the horrible person he is. I really hope he suffers when he dies.
Definitely. Vasalie is very determined and I believe she is capable of anything she puts her mind to.
Estienne might just be a psychopath. He’s honestly a despicable man. But it’s amazing to see how different the brothers are from each other.
Anton is very much a good person. He has a weird way of showing it but I think it is to protect his image as a king. If he did not care for Vasalie he wouldn’t have tried to spare her that gruesome image. And he definitely bought those women and children to set them free again. He knows what his brother and the rest of those men are capable of, especially after the disgusting things they said, and he wanted to spare the prisoners of that.
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1. Illian has put Laurent in an impossible position because he’s loyal, but trapped. The suffering Illian causes seems to outweigh any potential gain. It feels inevitable that his cruelty will catch up to him. Whether it’s karma or rebellion, his downfall feels earned.
2. Vasalie’s excuse about being slow was strategic. She’s choosing not to involve herself too early, likely to keep some control over the situation. Offering too much would give Illian more power over her.
3. I don’t think only Anton knows about the passages. In a palace this political, secrets never stay buried. Others likely know or suspect and especially people like Illian, who always seem two steps ahead.
4. Something big is definitely brewing, and I think it’s happening despite Illian’s efforts. He’s too focused on control, and real change is coming from the undercurrents he’s missed, or underestimated.
5. Illian and the Brisendali working together is dangerous. If he knows Vasalie’s true heritage, that would explain his manipulations. Her bloodline might be a key piece in his power game.
6. Yes, Laurent is probably right. Illian’s ties to Brisendale reek of betrayal, and if he’s aiding them, it’s likely for personal gain at the cost of his own people.
7. Copelan’s shift was probably spurred by Vasalie herself. She challenges him, makes him feel again. He sees something worth protecting, maybe even worth risking everything for.
8. Marian being the one Laurent helped is powerful. It shows Laurent has compassion beneath his role and hints at a deeper web of loyalties and past mistakes coming to light.
9. I think Vasalie will be forced to reveal the tunnels eventually as she’s too deeply entangled. But it will break her to do it, especially after being begged to keep them secret.
10. The sea glass walls are an incredible detail as it’s beautiful and haunting. I do think Illian was behind the wall when Vasalie stared at the mosaic. That moment had too much weight to be coincidence.
11. Annais being just as bound is probably true. She may have more freedom on the surface, but she’s still trapped by courtly duty, appearances, and likely, her own secrets.
12. Yes, writing is what dancing is to Vasalie for me. That one thing that feels like freedom, identity, and soul all at once. I think everyone needs something like that.
13. Anton’s observation might have started in suspicion, but it’s deeper now. He sees her complexity. He may not fully trust her, but he’s drawn to her in a way he can’t ignore.
14. Anton opened up because Vasalie even despite her own guardedness already feels real to him. In a world full of performance, she reflects truth back at him. That moment was rare, raw, and deeply human.
15. Their deflection after that vulnerability is so them and guarded and afraid to be seen too clearly. They’re not ready for intimacy, but they’re dancing around it all the same.
16. The general’s treatment of Marian was heartbreaking. I hope he won’t go unpunished. As for Vasalie’s father, I want to see him stripped of his power and pride because he’s caused too much pain.
17. I think Vasalie can ruin her father but it’ll cost her. Emotionally, morally, and maybe politically. But she has the strength to do it, especially with the right allies.
18. King Estienne gives off immediate predator vibes, charming but cruel. He’s dangerous, especially to someone like Vasalie. His power feels performative and hollow at the core.
19. Anton buying the auction items and shielding Vasalie was telling. He’s trying to protect her in the only way he knows and by controlling the stage. It’s possessive, but also strangely tender.
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1. I think those who crave power or are selfish will ultimately do whatever they want to get what they want regardless of how it impacts others.
2. It seemed strategic and her opening to suggest a “friend” that could assist.
3. I suspect others might be aware of them as well seeing as a few people Anton trusts knows of them. Anyone could have made a mistake and accidentally mentioned something when they thought no one was around. Or stumbled across it
4. Definitely involves Illian. I think the brothers are aware of each other’s agendas to some extent so Anton must suspect something.
5. Its possible, especially if he met the general and made the connection. But I’m unsure at this stage.
6. Its possible but difficult to say at this point. It seems like speculation ar this point.
7. He’s been inspired by Vasalie and has been how much attention she has garnered with her daring dance.
8. I was hoping we got to meet her at some point! It at least answered one question – why Brigette stayed.
9. Given Annais quiet nature, she might not need to say anything right now so its possible she could keep it a secret.
10. Oh I had forgotten about that! I definitely think it could have been him which does support the theory that others might know about the tunnels.
11. Yes. I think her son is being use as leverage over her.
12. My general creativity. I cherish moments when I am able to use it! Whether it’s crafting or coming up with ideas, it brings me joy.
13. I definitely think they’re vibing so its possible he’s just intrigued by her. I suspect also suspecting something but curious all the same.
14. To possibly create psychological safely so that she opens up as well. But maybe its also a moment of genuine vulnerability that Anton felt safe enough to share.
15. When walls are built that high, it takes time to tear past them so smaller pieces get shared before they retreat behind the walls.
16. I really hope he is punished! He is absolutely vile! I hope Vasalie is able to do it but given everything on her plate, it might not be her first priority.
18. Gosh. He seems very intense and dark. Consumed by bloodlust and vicious in nature. Possibly chaotic and unpredictable as well.
19. I think Anton tried to save those people from a terrible fate! I think he was trying to protect her from a gruesome sight! Definitely some chemistry between them!
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Illian is playing a game and its going to end badly for everyone and honestly i dont think he really cares as long as he gets what he wants.
Illian ordered Vaselie to find a way to bring in Annais and thats what she did. She gave an excuse of being too slow to help Laurent thus suggesting Annais to him.
Im sure the other brothers know of those passages. Theres no way that only Anton knows of them.
Something bigger than what Illian has planned is happening. Its more than what we have been let in on. We’ve got bits and pieces but Illians motives are up in the air and probably this “something bigger” as laurent put it, is due to Illian amongst others.
Illian isnt stupid so I do think he knows of Vaselies true heritage however, i dont necessarily think the link up between him and the Brisendali is a direct connection between Vaselie and where she comes from and why he is blackmailing her. But maybe it has something to do with her father rather then the Brisendali. Laurent knows everything, to a certain extent, so him saying that Illian is aiding the Brisendali, it must be true as he does hear whispers that occur between the staff.
Copelan is a loose canon and i still dont really understand him. i think he was influenced by someone change his decison of staying safe. Maybe Illian or one of the other kings? (Not Anton though)
Finding out that Laurent helped Marian warmed my heart. This also tells us that Laurent is one of the good ones. He trusts easily as well and hes made a grave mistake by telling vaselie about the tunnels and i know shes going to be forced to reveal them very soon.
It could be Illian! However, im curious to find out more of the sea glass walls!
Annais is most likely just as bound to Illian as Vaselie is. Illian doesnt just trust anyone.
Photography is something that I cherish just as much as Vaselie adores dancing.
Anton observes Vaselie for more than one reason. I think initially she intrigued her and the more he observes her the more he finds out about her, like her little quirks when dancing – how shes in pain while dancing. But at the same time he’s skeptical about her intentions.
I like to believer that Anton is trying to gain vaselies trust, thus being wholly truthful with her and not holding back. He knows something is off with vaselie and that someone is ‘controlling’ her but doesnt want to push her too much. So revealing something personal about himself, and truthfully, is basically laying all his cards out in trying to tell her to trust him.
They’re both individuals who have gone through something big – near dead experiences – and i think they find it hard to truthfully convey how they feel and be vulnerable with another person. So its just easier to deflect what is happening between them especially after being so raw and open.
The general will come out of this unscathed unfortunately. he knows he has power and that he can pull strings. hes not afraid of anyone. However, I do hope he does get punished for all the pain he has put vaselie, marian, Emilia and others through and with Vaselies determination I can see her ruining her father and getting justice.
King Estienne is hectic and very ruthless. Seeing Anton trying to spare Vaselie from being in Estiennes court screams that he cares for vaselie, and for others. The fact he won the auction. He wanted to save those people and spare them of the wrath that they may have faced from the others who were placing bids.
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King Illian does not care about anyone let alone Lauren so I wouldn’t expect much. It breaks my heart watching Vasalie betray him though because he is a really good friend to her.
Because it was her objective to get someone else in the castle.
No, I think King Illian knows they exist and wants to find a way in he can use in future.
Anything that is happening I believe that King Iliian set in motion. I think he is extremely clever and has been planning this for years.
I don’t think he knows of Vasalie true heritage if I’m being honest I think this will end up being revealed and will come as a shock to him. But him allying with Brisendali is a very smart power move.
Yes I agree with Laurent
I think Copelan is an incredibly oblivious sweetheart. I move that he admits that he was wrong and that he has been playing it safe but this is such a bad time for that particular epiphany.
I’m so glad we get to meet Brigitte’s daughter. Laurent is truly an angel.
Yes, Vasalie will 100% have to give up the tunnels to Illian. I’m pretty sure that was the main objective to all of this.
I’m not sure if Illian knows about the tunnels because if he did my theory does not make any sense lol, but it is definitely suspicious. And King Anton is the one who built them.
I do think it’s true, maybe even more so but I think she has a bigger role to play.
I would say reading? It’s the onky thing I am really passionate about.
I do. I think King Anton is a very very layered man who is trying to change the world for the better. I cannot believe that he is bad.
It’s clear that Anton has alot of things weighing on him, I’ve always thought the way he acts is a facade and I think we will learn more about who he truly is soon.
I think that I’m really starting to enjoy Anton’s character!
I absolutely despise the general. He is a disgusting bully of a man. I hope that she is able to bring him down but I’m not sure the law or the views of this particular time in these kingdoms will even care.
I hope she does, she is strong and I believe she can do anything.
Honestly? He is brutal, a bit evil and why do I like him? 👀😭 Send help.
Again, I think Anton is way more than he seems and I honestly think that he is doing what he can to help the people of his kingdom and other unfortunate souls but covering up with all his glamor and debauchery.
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To Illian, I think anyone and everyone suffering meets his end cause then it’s okay. If he gets a redemption arc, it’s going to be very difficult to believe or get behind as everyone is collateral damage to him and that seems fine with him.
Using the excuse that she’s slow is strategic but she’s also using what’s currently in her arsenal and given her circumstances this seems plausible.
No, I think other people will also know about the passages.
I think it’s a combination of everything and Illian may only be one player in the game and he might not even be aware of it either. I’m curious about what Anton has up his sleeve
If her true heritage is known then a few things atart making more sense and there’s danger lurking even she isn’t aware of. I do think Laurent is correct about Brisendale and Illian.
I’m still on the fence with Copeland – I’m just not a hundred percent convinced of him being on either side right now or his intentions. He may even just be a character inserted to try to make others jealous. When it comes to performing I think he wants to be the best there is.
I hope that Brigitte and Marian will have the opportunity to reunite at some point. Laurent helping her just has me hoping that he is the person we think he is.. and that nothing happens to him.
Yes, she will be forced to reveal the tunnels.
The sea glass placement is definitely purposefully done. It may have been him, now that you mention it but I’m still not sure. I’ll have to go back.
Yes, I do think that Annais is bound. Maybe not to the extent Vasalie is, but there is something deeper going on there. Everyone seems to be hiding or conspiring.
Do my books count? Then yes.
I believe that Anton did observe her because he was suspicious, but also curious. I think he’s also attracted to her and intrigued by her and maybe those things drew him in at first. Maybe he even recognised her? Which aided to his suspicions. Anton.. is someone I feel is the most powerful player right now – or the smartest – he knows by appearing vulnerable or opening himself up he may get the same reaction from the person. Or maybe he’s just falling for her. I wasn’t surprised by either of them deflecting after this moment especially because of who they are and the roles they are playing.
There’s many things I hope that will happen to her father… none of which I could ever type here. He’s a serious pile of dog poop. I truly hope that she will be able to ruin her father in a satisfying way especially after everything that he’s done.
Anton’s actions make me very “team Anton”. He was trying to protect her and in his own way, buying those on auction is a way to protect them too. Anton has many layers and we’ve barely cracked the surface on him.
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He doesn’t care about others well-being, physically or emotionally. For him, getting what he wants is more important and it’s likely he’ll face consequences for his actions.
She’s using that as an excuse to avoid involvement but it’s a strategic move.
No, I think other people know about it too.
It’s definitely happening because of Illian, and her father is probably involved as well.
I don’t think he’s aware.
Based on his manipulative behavior and the secrets he’s keeping, his actions suggest he could be.
I think he craves fame and since Vasalie made such an impression, he wants to be remembered even more than she is.
That moment speaks volumes about him, it shows he really is a good person.
Or she could be followed and caught using it.
He could, this would imply he already knows about the tunnels.
At the moment I’m not sure but I wouldn’t be surprised if she is.
Yes, reading is so important to me. I read every day because it brings me so much joy and peace.
I believe he watches her because he’s suspicious but also maybe because he’s drawn to her or even attracted to her.
I think he opened up to her so she’d feel safe enough to do the same.
They’re deflecting because they have their walls up. Vasalie, because of everything she’s been through, it would be hard for her to trust anyone. Anton likely has his own emotional scars too.
What he did was horrible and I hope he gets punished for it, though I don’t think it’ll happen anytime soon in the book.
I do think she’ll be able to ruin her father.
He seems intense and intimidating.
The way he reacted shows he truly cares about Vasalie and that he’s a good person deep down.
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Okay first off can we take a moment to appreciate this stunning artwork! I’m obsessed with the detail!!
I think Illian is going to get back tenfold for what he has put everyone through. He’s twisting Vasalie’s arm forcing her to lie to people she truly likes and trusts, just so that he can get his way.
I feel like as soon as one other person knows, secrets are shared. I do believe there are more individuals who are very much aware of the secret passages and have shared that information with spy’s unknowingly.
I think things are in motion as a result of Illian but possibly also the eldest king or doesn’t seem to be stable.
Knowing that Illian has eyes and ears everywhere, I’m sure he is aware and is using it to his advantage.I think Copelan is scared a. He may not be kept around for the following year b. That he may be replaced and c. That he worries Vasalie is in danger and he would rather be at her side to try and protect her if the need arises.
Such a full circle moment to meet Marian, I think Laurent is such a decent person. However he is way too trusting. I think Illian will force her to reveal the tunnels to him.
The sea glass tiles is absolutely brilliant, such a clever invention and the perfect spy tool. It very well could have been him, especially how realistic it looked.
100% think Annais is being held against her will and Illian is bribing her in some fashion.
I think Anton observes her because he is curious, she is not like anyone he has met. She is a mystery he wants to unravel but I also think he knows she is up to something. I think he opened up to her to show he isn’t superficial and that he’s trying to gain her trust and faith in himself.
The general is honestly an awful man, I truly hope he is punished for all his crimes. I do believe Vasalie will have a hand in his ruination.
I absolutely loathe King Estienne, I was truly horrified to read about his atrocities.
Anton is a good man, I believe he is wearing a mask to act like he is the bad guy but I think he’s going to save those people he just bought. He tried to protect Vasalie from witnessing these murders. I do believe he is starting to have feelings for her as well and is concerned about her safety. -
Illian is coming across as this arrogant jerkface that’s self-centered and has no regard for other people. Not a fan of him right now, just want the big reveals regarding what he is planning and what he did to Vasalie to be out soon. I like Laurent so I feel really bad for him. He doesn’t deserve to be played like that.
To nudge Laurent further in accepting the other lady’s help
I have a feeling Illian and Etienne knows too. Mainly Illian.
I’m conflicted, I’m definitely more on Anton’s side and believes he is doing the right thing whereas Illian is plotting against his brother and is more or less the villain but a part of me also believes that there is so much more to Illian thats being unsaid. He could also be tryna prevent something bad but I’m siding with Anton.
Could very well be that he is aware but I don’t think he knows to be honest, not yet anyway. Maybe he knows where she comes from but not that her father is the General.
It appears so.
I think Vasalie has inspired him and his feelings for her.
Laurent is a total sweetheart and I’m so glad we get to see Marian here and see that she’s okay thanks to Laurent’s help.
These tunnels play a big role, she knows about it now and Illain will try to extract that information from her no doubt.
Its definitely a cover for them to use as spying. When I read that bit I did feel as if someone was actually spying on her. It could be Illian or Anton (at that time when she first arrived),perhaps even both.
Yes, Annais seems like she doesn’t want to be there, forced to be much like Vasalie.
I cherish my few hobbies, one of them is dancing but most of all I cherish my niece & nephew. They matter the most to me.
More than one reason, he is weary of course anyone would be but he is also intrigued by her and enjoys/cares for her company thats for sure! I lowkey ship them.
He has feelings for her and it makes him wanna be vulnerable even if he doesn’t wish to.
Both are wounded and closed off. Putting on personas for the world. They arent used to being real and I get that. So a moment of vulnerability has them going back to their tools of deflection to keep things lighter.
I doubt anyone would have the courage to go against him and tell on what happened except for maybe Vasalie at some point. I knew the General ended up k!lling his wife. He is an absolutely horrible man and deserves to be punished severely. I hope he gets to pay for his crimes.
Vasalie has a sense of determination thats so strong it practically leaps off the pages, she can do it but I think she’ll need some help along the way.
*cough cough* AntonWe thought Illian was the rude one from the lot but he is nothing compared to Estienne. I thought it was just exaggeration and rumors but its true, Estienne is ruthless!
Anton is winning points left,right & center! He is so protective of her its cute! Also I’m 100% sure he bought those prisoners to SAVE them from a horrid fate. His Glory Court is misinterpreted instead its all the people he has saved and gave a better life to but in secret coz Anton doesn’t want people to know he is truly good and cares. Its better if they don’t. Safer for his kingdom and reputation.
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llian’s treatment of Laurent is not worth it. Illian’s causing deep harm, and yes, he’s building a path toward his own downfall.
Vasalie is playing it safe, staying underestimated ( it is strategic and doesn’t she she is weak)
It is unlikely Anton is the only one that knows. Secrets don’t stay hidden long in a palace full of spies.
Something big coming despite Illian. He thinks he’s in control, but there are bigger forces at play.
Illian and Brisendale working together is very interesting to say the least, I think he possibly does know Vasalie’s heritage
as his blackmail hints he knows more than he lets on, including her bloodline.Laurent is right about Illian aiding Brisendale, Illian is too secretive and calculated, he’s clearly playing both sides.
Marian being Laurent’s secret aid adds a touching twist and adds more depth to each character, which raises the stakes.
Vasalie may have to reveal the tunnels especially if it’s to save someone.
The sea glass walls in the book give a beautiful but unsettling but clever way to spy under the guise of art. Their placement feels intentional, it could be Illian’s way of maintaining control while hiding behind beauty. The scene where Vasalie stares into the mosaic of Illian and feels like she’s looking into his eyes is haunting. Knowing how calculated Illian is, he could easily have been behind the wall, watching.
Yes, both women lack freedom just in different forms. Annais is just as trapped, even though it is more emotional and political rather than physical, whilst Vasalie is more physically trapped.
Yes, Vasalie’s dancing is like my reading. It provides a sense of escape, identity and passion for me.
Yes, suspicion might be part of it, but Anton’s gaze seems layered, he is curious and he’s trying to figure her out not just as a political piece, but as a person.
Anton opening up shows a shift in their dynamic. Maybe he sees something familiar in her defiance or feels safe enough to let down his guard.
Both of them deflecting is very human, as vulnerability is uncomfortable, especially in a world as dangerous as theirs. Deflecting is a form of protection for them both.
The general may avoid consequences unless Vasalie or Anton find a way to challenge him. As for her father, I hope he faces the weight of his cruelty, he deserves to suffer the consequences.
She has the will and perhaps the growing alliances to do it. The question is whether she can do it without losing herself in the process.
King Estienne seems calculating, sharp, and dangerously playful, there’s an edge to him that suggests he’s not to be underestimated.
Anton’s actions show a protective side, but this is complicated. Buying those at auction could be seen as another form of control, but it also suggests he’s trying to shield her from something worse.
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I think Illian recognises people’s fatal flaws (like Laurent’s loyalty) or their desires (like Vasalie’s desire for freedom) and exploits them for his own personal gains. He doesn’t care who gets hurt of who suffers, as long as his plans benefit him at the end of the day.
If she offered her services, Laurent wouldn’t see a need to take a risk on bringing Annais onto the isle to help him, and Vasalie would’ve failed her task for Illian.
It technically isn’t true that ONLY Anton knows about the tunnels if his guards and Laurent know about them. Illian supposedly has eyes and ears everywhere, and Vasalie is supposed to report back to him, so even if only Anton and his inner circle knows about the tunnels, I doubt this information will be a secret for long.
It’s definitely happening because of Illian. It feels like him pulling the strings behind Vasalie’s movements and his spies at the Gathering is just a precursor for how he’s pulling the strings behind the political upheaval that might happen in the future.
I hope he isn’t aware of her heritage, but since he’s working with the Brisendali and seems to be friendly with the general, maybe that is an additional layer behind why he’s forcing her to carry out tasks that are aimed at both furthering his agenda and tormenting her (in addition to controlling her).
Most definitely. It was mentioned earlier that he’s jealous of his brothers owning the other 2 thirds of Miridran/ unhappy at not being the sole ruler of it, so to overthrow his brothers he’d probably align himself with the country with the biggest army to help him do so.
I think spending time with Vasalie, and liking her, has influenced him to take more risks.
It was a pleasant surprise to encounter Marian, but Laurent helping her definitely aligns with the kindness that his character has shown so far.
I hope not, but she’ll probably feel forced to do so, especially to avoid the wrath of Illian. If his eyes and ears on the isle find out about the tunnels and Illian finds out that she’s been in the tunnels before his other spies did, then she’ll lose the little freedom she does have now. So if she feels cornered into a position where she needs to reveal this information to Illian, I think she will to save herself. Then again, she hates him and wants to escape, so she’ll probably hold onto this information as a plan B for herself if Illian goes back on his word.
I hope it wasnt Illian behind the wall, because then it means he knows about the tunnels. I think it was Anton.
Definitely. She’s probably keeping silent around Vasalie to minimise the connection between them the same way Vasalie doesn’t get to know/ interact with the other dancers.
For me, it’s teaching and tutoring others. I enjoy modifying my teaching style, experimenting with different techniques to get others to understand, seeing what works and what doesn’t. It gives me a sense of purpose and joy seeing the spark in people’s eyes when they understand what I’m teaching them.
I think he observes her because he’s attracted to her, but mainly to find evidence to confirm his suspicions about her working for Illian.
Anton is a very observant person. I’m pretty sure he realised she’s wary of him and he’d need to show some vulnerability and honesty toward Vasalie in order to receive the same from her in her answer to his questions.
I think they had a moment of honesty and vulnerability, but remembered who they are and where they are, and deflected to keep their guard back up around each other. But on the bright side, this moment of genuine honesty between them made them grow slightly closer.
It will unfortunately go unpunished because he’s so powerful. I hope this man dies/ is assassinated at the end of the book, or at least gets imprisoned in a dark cell waaaaay underground.
I really hope so, but I doubt she’ll be able to do so by herself. She’ll need Anton and a few other allies to take that man (and Illian) down.
I was hoping he wasn’t as hectic as the rumours portrayed, but he seems like a more overtly violent version of Illian, enjoying the pain and suffering of others just as much, but with more bloodlust and blood being shed.
I think he’s trying to protect her and the auctioned “criminals” from the horrors of Estienne’s court. It speaks a lot about his character that he’s able to protect the auctioned prisoners while maintaining his cover as a man who just cares about drinking and revelry.
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Q: What do you think of the situation Illian has put Laurent in? Is getting what he wants truly worth all the suffering he is causing those under him? Do you believe Illian will get his comeuppance for all the horrible things he is doing?
A: I don’t think it’s fair to involve innocent, hardworking people in his schemes. I hope he gets what he deserves. I am so so so curious to read about what his motives were.Q: Why do you think Vasalie didn’t offer her services and instead offered the excuse that she is slow?
A: She did not want to get more involved. I think it’s also a way of making sure she doesn’t have to work more closely to Laurent and causing a greater betrayal toward him.Q: Laurent believes that only King Anton knows about the passages, but do you think this is true?
A: No, I’m sure other people will know. Laurent seems like a gossip lol. But someone had to build and extend the tunnel network, so I’m sure those builders know along with anyone else who they might have told.Q: Laurent warns Vasalie that something big is happening. Do you think this is happening because of Illian or despite him and his best efforts?
A: I think it’s because of Illian and whoever else is involved.Q: What do you make of Illian and the Brisendali working together? Do you think he is aware of Vasalie’s true heritage, and it is one of the reasons why he is blackmailing her?
A: Ooooh I didn’t even think about that – maybe then!Q: Do you think Laurent is right in that Illian is aiding Brisendale?
A: It might just be a rumour but rumours do stem from some truths.Q: Copelan shifts from staying safe and not attracting attention to giving in to taking risks. What do you think spurred this change?
A: I think losing his previous partner along with meeting Vasalie has sparked this change. He sees something in her.Q: What do you think of Marian being the person Laurent helped?
A: That was a beautiful full circle moment. I hope she can be reunited with her mother!Q: Will Vasalie be forced to reveal the tunnels even though she has been asked and begged not to reveal them?
A: I’m not sure she will. Maybe under duress or if lying would cost someone else’s life.Q: What do you think of the placement of the sea glass walls and the opportunity they provide to spy? Do you recall a chapter where Vasalie was looking at the sea glass mosaic of Illian, and she thought she was staring into his eyes? Do you think that it could have been Illian behind the sea glass wall?
A: it’s a very clever way of spying! It might have been him. He seems to be everywhere and nowhere all at once.Q: Vasalie thinks that Annais is just as bound as she is. Do you think this is true?
A: Yes. Something very traumatic must have occurred for her not to speak and her having a son complicates things. I think King Illian might have him held captive somewhere in order to have her comply.Q: Do you have something as cherished as dancing is to Vasalie?
A: I’d say my book collection but I think we all have that in common!Q: Vasalie believes that Anton observes her because he is suspicious. Do you think that he observes her for a different reason? Or perhaps there could be more than one reason?
A: He is definitely suspicious of her. I’m sure his brothers have sent plenty of spies in the past.Q: When Anton questions Vasalie again on why she dances, Vasalie answers superficially (to an extent), but Anton answers truthfully. Why do you think Anton opened to Vasalie like this?
A: He feels comfortable around her. I don’t think a lot of people care about him as much as they do about his wealth.Q: What do you think of the two of them deflecting right after this vulnerable moment?
A: I don’t think either of them have opened up to anyone else in a while and probably felt like they said too much.Q: What starts as a friendly moment between Marian and Vasalie quickly turns sour. Do you think the general’s treatment of Marian will go unpunished? What do you think or hope will happen to Vasalie’s father?
A: That was so upsetting to see and how sweet she still was towards Vasalie in the midst of things. I hope he has the day he deserves.Q: Do you think Vasalie will be able to ruin her father?
A: 100%! Just don’t know how yet but we will get there!Q: What are your first impressions of King Estienne?
A: No good words are coming to mind 😁Q: What do you think of Anton trying to spare Vasalie from King Estienne’s court antics, and him buying those on auction?
A: I think it was his good nature shining through again. That maybe his court consists of people he saved from a bad fate, and is not what outsiders think it is. -
Illian is such an unlikeable character and only cares about himself. He will do anything, even if it means causing harm to others, to get what he wants. I hope he gets his comeuppance for all he’s doing to others, it’s just not right.
Vasalie using an excuse to say she is slow is a smart move.
I think more people know about the passages, but it’s just a well-kept secret. There’s a lot of gossip, and secrets rarely stay secret within these halls.
I think that everything that is happening is somehow linked to Illian. He has a hand in many things, but there’s also an unrest between the royals, so perhaps he is the catalyst.
Illian and the Brisendali working together spells trouble in capital letters.I think Laurent knows more than he’s letting on and is right about Illian aiding Brisendale. When it comes to Illian, anything is possible.
I think Copelan is acting this way since he likes Vasalie and wants to protect her.
It was such a surprise to meet Marian and finding out she is the person that Laurent helped. I loved meeting her.
To be honest, what would a person reveal when the pressure becomes too much? It could be that a secret saves you.
The sea glass walls are such a smart element in a castle, especially knowing all the gossip that goes around. I’m sure at that moment she stared into Anton’s eyes and that he was the one behind the wall.
I think Annias is bound by something different, but also in the same position as Vasalie. And for Annias to not speak, that means something terrible has happened to force her into silence.
It’s probably books, but not just the reading, the connection it brings between strangers and making them feel at home in each other’s presence.
There is no doubt in my mind that Anton observes Vasalie because he is suspicious.
I feel Anton opened up to Vasalie because he needed that moment to be honest, to have a connection, even though it was fleeting. We know he is known for his glory court, so having that moment might have been what he needed and might be the start of something.
It was a moment of realisation and thinking that being so vulnerable and letting down their walls might cause danger for them.
The general’s treatment of Marian is despicable. He needs to be stopped, and I hope that it happens soon.
I definitely think Vasalie will be able to ruin her father, if not her, who else? She knows him best and knows what drives him.
King Estienne – he and Vasalie’s father will make great friends.
That was such an intense moment! I feel that Anton tried to protect her and buying those on auction was in fact a way to save the people.
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