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A Dance of Lies – Day Seven

Illustrated by @sakuraartist

At the start of Chapter Twenty-Nine, Anton is having a nightmare, and Vasalie comforts him. Do you think that perhaps Anton was right? Vasalie might just become his comfort?

What do you think of the shift in Anton’s demeanour?

Vasalie isn’t sure if she can trust Anton’s intentions after her experience with Illian. Do you think Anton is being genuine?

What do you think Anton was going to tell Vasalie about the Glory Court?

Anton and Basile have a very lively relationship. What do you think of this in comparison to Illian’s relationship with his staff?

What do you think of the interaction between Anton and Copelan in Chapter Thirty?

Do you think Copelan’s confession is a little too late?

What do you think of Anton being everywhere Vasalie is?

Were you surprised to see Laurent at the Gathering again? He mentions that he has forgiven Vasalie. Would you have forgiven someone for betraying you that easily?

Does finding out about Illian’s childhood allow you to understand the current Illian more?

What do you think of the image of Anton with glasses on his nose and lost in a book?

Vasalie seems to have uncovered another plot. Do you think Laurent will inform Anton so that he has enough time to act?

What do you think of Copelan’s betrayal? Do you think it came from his jealousy?

Despite her current situation, Vasalie has been given something so that she can protect herself. What do you think of Anton keeping his word and finding a way to arm Vasalie?

Do you think Vasalie should have put all her hope in Esmée?

What do you think of the dance that Vasalie and the other performers have put together for the last show?

What do you think Illian has done with Anton and his comrades?

Illian has successfully framed his brother for treason that he did not commit. What do you think of Brisendale flocking immediately to Illian’s side? Do you think that King Rurik is truly incapable of seeing how he is being played?

What do you think of Vasalie’s plan with the flags and her father’s cap? What will the others’ reactions to it be?

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15 responses to “A Dance of Lies – Day Seven”

  1. Sascha Avatar
    Sascha

    I am so enjoying Vasalie and Anton’s relationship and love that they can find solace in each other’s company.
    I really do think Anton is being genuine, his mannerisms and what he has done to save the people who have been in his employ seem second nature to him.

    Anton’s relationship he shares with his guard his based on years of connection and friendship in a sense. He actually sees them as people and as individuals unlike Illian who only sees himself as being valuable and important. As long as he is okay, nothing else matters.

    I was here for the awkwardness!!! Love that Anton still shows up to make sure she is okay and that she is supported. Copelan is just a jealous ‘ex’ at this point.
    His confession is definitely a little too late, I think Esmee must have turned him down and now he’s trying to luck out again.
    Anton always being there is such a green flag!!!

    I’m surprised he forgave her so quickly and even joked about it. But I think after Anton explained what was happening behind the scenes he saw the truth in the matter and by some miracle it ended up working out for him in the long term.

    It definitely does, but I still feel like that is no excuse to go through and commit all these evil atrocities. He is an adult and is simply through a tantrum like a toddler would, in order to get his way.

    Adore that image of Anton ~ dream man right there!

    I am so worried that he won’t have enough time to warn him.

    My jaw was on the floor when I read about Copelan’s betrayal! I was so shocked that he would stoop to this level all because of his jealousy?! Like are you serious?

    Anton is a gem, I love how he is always thinking about the future and her protection.

    She should put any hope in Esmee, as she has proven that she only wants to gain favour with Illian again, even after what he’s done to her.

    I think Anton and his guards have all been beaten and locked up in some dungeon whilst Illian lets his plan unfold. That way he will have no objections.
    Arggg once again, the men in this book never think anything through logically and simply flock to an idea on instinct.

    I think she is bladdy courageous and I can’t wait to see what happens next!

  2. @jodeereads7 Avatar
    @jodeereads7

    Yes, I think he already feels very comforted by her.

    I don’t really see it as a shift. I think it’s who he’s been trying to be all along and Vasalie is only now seeing it for what it truly was this whole time.

    I definitely think he’s being genuine. Anton doesn’t make him being a crown his whole personality, unlike his brothers, so I don’t necessarily think he’s using her to gain something from the situation but rather just protect his kingdom.

    I think he was going to tell her it’s all part of his façade as this carefree king.

    It just shows you what kind of king he is to his people and that should be enough for Vasalie to trust him.

    I was living for their interaction. As much as I adore Copelan, and what he has done for Vasalie, he got what deserved. He was not afraid to flaunt Esmee in Vasalie’s face so why should Anton even consider his feelings.

    It’s a lot late actually. If he knew what he wanted from the beginning he could have made that clear to Vasalie. Instead he wanted to make sure he was over Esmee and had no problem stringing Vasalie along.

    I’m thinking he can’t stay away from her. In the beginning he might have been spying on her but I think he’s past that.

    No, I knew Anton would still keep him close. It depends on the situation. In this situation I would’ve forgiven Vasalie if I knew the whole truth. At the end of the day she did what she had to do to stay safe.

    Definitely, and in a way I resent his mother for the way he turned out. Because of her he thinks everyone owes him everything. But at the end of the day he had a choice. Anton wasn’t even next in lien, yet he chose to try and kill Anton every chance he got. I think it’s because he knew Anton is more worthy of being a king than he ever was and ever will be.

    I was smiling so hard at this. Anton is truly full of surprises.

    I know Laurent will do everything in his might to get the news to Anton as soon as possible. I just hope Anton has enough time to do something. Unless he already knows, because nothing gets past this man.

    This was my last straw with Copelan. He thought nothing of it do ditch Vas for Esmee and then when he finally figured out what he wanted he ran back. When he didn’t get what he wanted, instead of trying to fight for her, he threw her under the bus. I’m honestly so disgusted by Copelan right now. I hope Vasalie gets justice and he’s banished from the kingdom.

    Anton really is the man he thinks he is! This, once again, tells us a lot about the type of person he is. If Vasalie still doesn’t trust him after this, I don’t know what will convince her.

    No, Esmee is too delusional to even click that Illian never wanted her to begin with still she’s running after him.

    I wish I could witness it myself!

    He’s probably keeping them where he’s been keeping everyone he imprisoned while at the kingdom.

    I think that Rurick thinks he’s in on the scheme when in truth he really isn’t.

    I just really hope the think he commit treason so he can get out of the way. Because once he’s out of the way it will act as a stone in Illian’s path.

  3. Qady Avatar

    I do think he’s right, I can already see her becoming his comfort.

    We are getting to see his softer side. Which is making me love him and Vasalie together.
    And I do think he is being genuine.

    He could be confessing something that explains his influence there.

    It shows he cares about how he treats people and doesn’t let his power affect that.

    Copelan is such a red flag and Anton is the opposite.
    And yes Copelan confession is a little to late.

    He probably loves being around her but also wants to protect her.

    I was surprised to see how fast he forgave her. If I was him I would have forgiven her once I knew the truth but would have been more hesitant to trust her.

    Yes but that doesn’t excuse his behavior.

    Vasalie has her very own book boyfriend lol.

    I hope he informs him on time!!

    Omg yes! He is so annoying at this point.

    She deserves someone like him and I’m so happy for her.

    No, we can’t trust that she’ll act in Vasalies best interest long term.

    It must be so good!

    He’s probably keeping them locked up.

    I think they are both just siding with the person who has the most power. It’s all about survival and not getting on Illian’s bad side.

    I think they will be shocked the same way I was when I read what she was about to do.

  4. Kayla/Geeky Avatar
    Kayla/Geeky

    1. Yes, I think Anton was right because Vasalie is already becoming a source of comfort for him, whether she realises it or not.

    2. His shift feels like the walls are coming down because he’s showing a softer, more human side.

    3. I think Anton is being genuine, but Vasalie’s caution is valid after what happened wjth Illian.

    4. Pr

    4. IT is probably something that would have revealed a hidden danger or his deeper involvement there.

    5. Anton and Basile’s banter feels warm and respectful which is a total contrast to Illian’s colder, more transactional way with people.

    6. The Anton–Copelan scene had such tension; it’s like watching two storms circle each other.

    7. Yes and Copelan’s confession feels too little, too late.

    8. It’s suspicious, but also maybe protective and Anton being everywhere she is could go either way.

    9. A little surprised, yes. I don’t think I’d forgive betrayal that quickly.

    10. It helps explain Illian’s ruthless, distrustful nature and his childhood clearly shaped him.

    11. Honestly, the mental image of Anton with glasses and a book is adorable and it humanises him.

    12. I think Laurent will tell Anton, but maybe not in time to stop things completely.

    13. Yes, his betrayal feels rooted in jealousy and he can’t stand the idea of losing her.

    14. I respect Anton for keeping his promise and arming her and it shows he’s willing to give her agency.

    15. No, putting all her hope in Esmée feels risky.

    16. The final dance sounds like it’s going to be beautiful and symbolic and a statement as much as a performance.

    17. Whatever Illian has done with Anton and his comrades, it’s probably brutal and strategic.

    18. Brisendale’s quick loyalty shift says a lot about his opportunism. King Rurik either doesn’t see the manipulation or refuses to.

    19. The flag-and-cap plan is bold and I think it’ll shock some, inspire others, and definitely rattle Illian.

  5. Tanith (@tanith_justanotherchapter) Avatar
    Tanith (@tanith_justanotherchapter)

    Yes, I do think Anton was right in predicting she may be his comfort.

    I don’t think it’s necessarily a shift. I just think that there are less secrets between them so he can be more himself.

    Yes, I do think he’s being genuine – he’s shown us this all along. He plays off parts of himself / doesn’t correct the narrative around him but that is because he’s looking at the bigger picture. I believe he’s genuine towards Vasalie.

    The Glory Court is exactly what I thought it would be. I am glad that he confined my suspicions.

    Anton’s relationship with Basile proves our point that he’s genuine. Illian has been trash from the very beginning and we saw that.

    Copelan needs to get a grip, I understand his worry to a certain extent but Vasalie is not Esmee and Anton is not Illian.

    Yes and no. I think Vasalie would have figured out her feelings for him eventually without Anton or without Copelan’s confession.

    Anton is strategic. He’s steps ahead. So him being everywhere she is is deliberate.

    It depends on the situation and context. Laurent knew why she did it, he also knew Anton. I think if Lauren’s fate was different then forgiveness may not have been so easily to come by.

    Knowing his childhood provides context to his character but it doesn’t excuse his behavior.

    That image of Anton feels sweet and domestic. As though he only let’s those close to him see it as he let’s his guard down.

    I hope that Laurent had enough time to warn Anton. She suspected from the start there was more to it so I’m happy she figured it out – I just hope it’s in time.

    Yes, Copelan can say it’s from a place of caring or not breaking the rules but it’s very clear it’s from a place of jealousy.

    It shows us that Anton is genuine and he wants to prove it to her too.

    Vasalie is grasping at straws and Esmee is one of them. She’s just trying in whatever way she can. Maybe we’re lucky and Esmee listened.

    I think the dance was poetic and a type of foreshadowing. I wish we were able to see them.

    I have no idea right now. I just hope that Anton was his usual self and thought a few steps ahead like he always does.. And that he has a plan.

    King Rurik will be bale to see he’s being played if he sees the evidence. Brisendale wanted everything to end and for there to be stability.

    Vasalie is good at thinking in her feet. I hope that it gets the message across but even if it doesn’t it will at least spark questions.

  6. Adeela (@adeela_books) Avatar

    Oh totally yes! I’m counting on them becoming each other’s EVERYTHING

    It’s not a shift, its more like Vasalie is getting closer to him and can see the real Anton and he is letting it show with her, more freely.

    Yes,Anton hasn’t given us reason to doubt him the way Illian repeatedly has.

    The glory court isn’t what everyone assumes it is. Its a place I believe where Anton sends people that need help and assists them as long as they need. Its a safe haven disguised as a brothel house to keep those people safe and Anton’s soft side a secret so it wont be exploited.

    Illian is all controlling,power, I AM THE KING, You will OBEY me vibes whereas Anton has an easy going nature and environment with his staff. He treats them like friends instead of the help which is how it should be.

    It’s fun seeing Copelan’s disapproval and jealousy while Anton enjoys poking and teasing him.

    At this point I do. We’ve moved on from here and it’s just Anton in the picture right now.

    I like that he is, its giving book boyfriend.

    I was surprised to see Laurent back at this part of the book, I expected a reunion at the end but it was nice seeing him again and was so kind of him to forgive her that quickly. Yes I’d forgive but maybe I’d want a little more time than what Laurent took but I know I’d have forgiven if the person was sincere and apologized properly.

    It does shed more light onto Illian and why he is the way he is and while I do sympathize with his childhood and treatment at that time. I’m still against him and it doesn’t give him a free pass for the his behavior now. Its not on.

    Super cute! I love that he reads!

    I’m hoping so! We need Laurent to tell Anton soon its the only way for things to go well. For them to have a fighting chance. I hope Laurent manages to.

    Copelan annoyed me so much in that scene, Anton gave Vasalie the benefit of the doubt when he first found out she was with Illian but Copelan just crashes out so drastically. I understand that he gave her chances before and Vasalie has danger following her and she’s very vague but if you have feelings for someone you wont get them into trouble no matter what. Copelan just ruined everything with his pettiness and jealousy and need to be controlling Vasalie.

    The love for Anton just grows & grows. I wasn’t surprised as I knew Anton would keep his word.

    Well,not all but its nice to see she’s still trying to find a way out and hasn’t given up.

    Very symbolic, it sounded magical and would be so cool if we could see it in real life.

    Probably subdued and taken them hostage for now. Illian seems like he’ll pin the blame of all the drama on Anton as well as King Rurik’s death or planning of the death.

    I think King Rurik is short sighted and hot headed. He reacts before he thinks. Which is why he’d never see Illian,the General & his daughter’s betrayal coming. He isn’t all mean, but he doesn’t see and study the bigger pictures and that’ll be his downfall.

    No clue but it sounds like it’ll be huge so I’m eager to read further.

    1. Adeela (@adeela_books) Avatar

      Update for the last question: Everyone will be shocked by this but I hope King Rurik believes what’s shown and that Illian doesn’t worm his way out with his minions.

  7. Simone @shelves_by_sim Avatar
    Simone @shelves_by_sim

    I definitely think so, these two are a match made by destiny. Literally two broken souls who could heal each other and I love it.

    I think he is finally starting to trust Vasalie which says alot about him, especially since he knows who she really is.

    Yes, I wholeheartedly believe Anton is genuine in his affection for her as well as just a genuine person in general.

    He was going to explain what it really is and it’s probably something good that he is covering up seeing as who his brothers are.

    It just shows that Anton is a good man. His staff trust him, they are like family to him.

    Copelan is acting possessive even after everything and I cannot stand it, I love that Anton just brushes him off.

    Way too late. He has shown her who he really is and I’m so glad that she is not having it.

    I think that Anton cares for her, and ensures he has her in his sights at all times because he knows his brother and what he is capable of.

    I was so happy to see Laurent again! I think in his situation, yes I would have forgiven her.

    Yes and no. We all have it hard and we all make choices. I can sympathize with him but I also feel like there has always been something a little bit evil in him.

    I think that it’s adorable. Not somthing you’d expect from a man with his kind of reputation.

    Yes I hope he informs Anton in time though because I feel like something is off.

    Yes, I think Copelan is a coward and an bitter excuse for a man. He hangs to esmees betrayal with Illian and yet he still chooses her over Vasalie and then when he doesn’t get to have both of them, he acts out. He absolutely disgusts me.

    I always knew Anton would keep his word, he is not the type to make empty promises.

    It’s hard to say, my gut reaction says no but at the same time, what alternative did she have?

    Loved it! I love how there dances are so unique and all have meaning.

    I don’t know, I’m holding out hope that Anton has escaped whatever trap his brother set for him.

    I don’t think King Rurik has any reason to suspect foul play so yes, I think he is completely oblivious.

    I think that if Rurik figures it out, then it’s genius. But others might just see it as a threat.

  8. metaphors_and_mimosas (Sam) Avatar

    1. Absolutely! They’re bonding so much and it seems to be the case in that scene!

    2. I do think he has a secret or two of his own but I think he is being genuine!

    3. He was going to explain that it was a cover and more like a shelter for refugees (which he did later on)

    4. Worlds apart. Illian treats them like they are beneath him and keeps them all at arms length.

    5. Ugh Copelan is becoming so annoying! His righteous behavior is so unnecessary! I’m so glad that Anton steps in when he needs to.

    6. It is. Vasalie let go of the idea of him a while ago already.

    7. I think it’s interesting that he is able to be around her so much, especially if he is trying to find his own evidence. But it is also somewhat endearing because it feels like he can’t keep himself away from her.

    8. I think the hurt would remain with me for some time and it also depends on how they betrayed me and the reasons behind it as well.

    9. It does shed some understanding on his persona but it doesn’t justify his wanting to kill Anton because he didn’t feel that way about Estienne.

    10. It made me smile so much and just made him seem even more endearing to me.

    11. I really hope so! Things ended on a dreary note so I hope he was able to share before the guards went through the tunnels!

    12. Absolutely was his jealousy. I was so angry on Vasalie’s behalf because he didn’t even know for sure what was going on, just made an assumption with huge repercussions!

    13. I think it will go a long way, especially since Vasalie has such a hard time trusting people. Keeping promises is a way to build that trust

    14. No. I think she misunderstood Esmee’s feelings and intentions. There was also little else she could try when being watching so closely

    15. It sounded breath taking! I wish I could see it in real life! My imagination does not do it justice!

    16. I think he’s got them imprisoned somewhere or just distracted so he could have uninterrupted time to set up and execute his plan.

    17. I was surprised at this, especially because it seemed like they would kill Rurik. I thought it would be because he took Anton’s side, and they’d use it as an excuse. Even more intrigued to see how it plays out.

    18. I hope it is obvious and it works! Her creativity came in clutch!

  9. Jaina Avatar

    This scene between was so sweet and I would like to think she will become his comfort. The shift in Anton’s demeanour feels to me like he is at a bit more ease with people that he trusts and him showing this side of himself infront of Vas is a sign that she is becoming a comfort to him.

    I do believe Anton is being genuine as what he has done so far hasn’t been of any malice with that him telling Vas that Laurent and Mariane are safe after being sent to jail. This shows that he does care and is being genuine.

    Anton most likely wanted to tell her that the glory court isnt what she thinks it is.

    Such an awkward encounter between these two!! It was so funny to see Copelan behave so weirdly and for Anton to constantly poke at him by insinuating things happened between him and Vas. It was like a male ego standoff between them both.

    I do think Copelans confession was too late as Vas already made her mind up about him and rightfull so.

    Anton is so smitten and its super cute to see that he’s following Vas around.

    Its never easy to forgive someone so easily but i guess if there was a good enough reason to someones actions then yes but I would need time to process.

    It makes me understand Illian more and I can empathise with little Illian however it doesnt justify his current actions.

    This image of Anton is something i didnt expect considering he is always described differently. So this makes me see him as someone who is soft and who enjoys reading a book away from all the drama and noise that goes on in the courts.

    I hope laurent does tell Anton in time as it is a big deal. However, copelans betrayal defintely spawned from jealousy.

    It means that Anton cares and will do what he says he will.

    Maybe not all her hope as she doesnt really know Esmee.

    The dance was stunning as always!

    I have no idea and its worrying me!

    Everyone is driven by proof so I can see why they all jump to side with Illian as well as Rurick. Although Rurik is silly if he cant see that he is being played.

    Its a good plan although i dont think anyone will see it as Illian is too smart to let something like this slide.

  10. Kayleigh (@masters.library) Avatar
    Kayleigh (@masters.library)

    Yes, this moment feels like a confirmation of Anton’s earlier thought. She’s becoming a grounding presence for him, just as he’s been a source of steadiness for her.

    He’s more open, a little softer, and less guarded with Vasalie. It signals trust and perhaps a growing emotional attachment.

    Given her trauma, her caution is understandable. Anton, however, comes across as genuine, his actions are protective rather than manipulative

    Likely something politically dangerous or personal about his dealings there, possibly a warning or a confession about alliances he’s made.

    Anton’s rapport is built on respect and camaraderie, while Illian rules through fear. It highlights Anton’s leadership style as far healthier and more human.

    It’s tense but controlled

    Yes, it feels like too little, too late. His choices earlier created distance, and this confession might not undo that.

    It’s protective but also a little possessive. Given the danger surrounding her, it makes sense strategically.

    Yes, it’s surprisingly quick. In such a cutthroat world, instant forgiveness is suspicious and could signal an ulterior motive.

    It adds context to his cruelty, showing the roots of his control issues, but it doesn’t excuse his actions.

    It’s a rare, softer image that humanises him. It’s almost disarming compared to his usual political sharpness.

    If it benefits him, yes, but Laurent’s loyalty is questionable.

    Jealousy could be part of it, but survival instinct and fear of losing control likely played larger roles.

    It’s a significant gesture of trust and respect. In their world, keeping promises is rare, and this proves he values her safety.

    No, while Esmée might be an ally, relying solely on one person in this political web is risky.

    It’s symbolic and emotionally charged, a final performance layered with unspoken messages and defiance.

    Most likely imprisoned or placed in a compromising political position—Illian would prefer to humiliate and discredit rather than simply kill.

    Brisendale’s quick allegiance shows opportunism. As for King Rurik, either he’s blinded by loyalty or unwilling to admit he’s being manipulated.

    It’s bold and symbolic, likely to provoke strong reactions. Allies may see it as clever resistance.

  11. Jade Sophia (jadeys.bingereads) Avatar

    I think so, because in a world where they both can’t completely trust the people around them, it seems like Anton and Vasalie are starting to not only trust each other, but seek comfort from each other’s prescence. I love how their relationship is progressing so far!

    I like that he’s showing a softer side around Vasalie. It really drives home just how much he feels he can let his guard down around her.

    I think he is being genuine when he’s around her, and it’s only natural for her to question his motives after her only other relationship to a Crown she once trusted backfired. I just hope she comes to trust that Anton is being genuine.

    I think he was going to tell her that it isn’t real and just another one of the extravagant rumours about him and his court (and then tell her what the truths about his court the Glory Court is fronting/hiding from the rest of the Crowns looking too closely into what he actually does).

    I think it speaks volumes about the type of ruler and person that Anton is in comparison to Illian. His guards seem to be on eggshells around him and loyal out of fear and duty, whereas Anton’s guards (as shown by his interaction with Basile) are loyal to Anton because he’s a good ruler and person, and allows them to be themselves around him.

    I thought it was entertaining. Both men are trying to exert their dominance in this situation, with the subtext being their unresolved feelings (towards each other) about each being a love interest for Vasalie at different points of this novel. There’s some obvious tension between them because of this jealousy, and it subtlely bled into their conversation.

    It’s way too late for him to be having this realisation, especially after the damage his previous stance on this matter caused to whatever relationship he had with Vasalie in the past. But his confession also annoyed me because it just proves that this man doesn’t know what he wants and is confused, and he’s wasting Vasalie’s time (and probably Esmee’s too) as a result.

    I think it’s cute. He’s keeping a protective eye on her, but also seems to just enjoy being in her presence, even if it’s from afar.

    I was surprised! From Anton’s descriptions about how he smuggled Laurent and Marian off the isle, I wasn’t expecting either of them to make a reappearance into the plot. But I’m glad he came back because he got to tell Vasalie she was forgiven, that he understood she was in an impossible position, and so that Vasalie was able to free herself from the guilt of betraying him with his forgiveness.
    That being said, if I were in Laurent’s shoes, I would probably forgive them (since I believe in second chances), but it would take me a long time to fully be able to trust them again. I would probably hold them at arms length until they prove themselves trustworthy, especially if they betrayed me on such a huge scale.

    It definitely does. It’s unfortunate to learn that he was a jealoys, greedy Crown even in his youth, and although I wish his father had done something about it, it doesn’t excuse any of Illian’s harmful actions in the present.

    It honestly made him so much more endearing. Brittney Arena knew what she was doing when she wrote that part.

    I hoped the information would reach Anton in time, but considering this chapter is so far from the end of the book that anything could go wrong, I wasn’t too hopeful.

    I hate this character now. I get being jealous, but jumping to conclusions and making assumptions as badly as he did… you’d think he would’ve learnt from the other times in the first half of this book where his assumptions about Vasalie were proven wrong. When it mattered the most, he failed Vasalie, letting his jealousy override his common sense when her life was on the line.

    I think it was a nice reminder that although Vasalie may have been caught and imprisoned by Illian once more, the circumstances aren’t the same because she has allies and a person she can trust to help her, even from afar.

    I don’t blame her for putting all her hope in Esmee. I think at that point, she was a last resort/ a final attempt for getting help with escaping. It’s a shame Esmee was too delusional to be of any help!

    Once again, I wish I was part of th audience watching these dances unfold. It sounded so magical, and I love how it conveyed the myth in such an interactive and interpretive way!

    I thought he probably imprisoned and tortured them.

    Brisendale immediately flocking to Illian’s side should have tipped the other Crowns off to the fact that they have a secret alliance, and it was so infuriating to read about how their collective accusations confused the other rulers enough for Illian to take control over Miridran. Rurik is so blind to the reality of the alliance between Bridendale and Illian, and I just hope Vasalie’s plan works and he sees the truth.

    I thought it was a genius and subtle way of communicating her message, but I’m not sure Rurik is smart enough to infer all that from the imagery Vasalie left for him. I think Illian and General Stova would have prepared for an outcome where Rurik found out what they were really planning, and they’ll probably launch into their rehearsed excuses and denials if Rurik confronts them.

  12. @liztheliterary Avatar

    Q: At the start of Chapter Twenty-Nine, Anton is having a nightmare, and Vasalie comforts him. Do you think that perhaps Anton was right? Vasalie might just become his comfort?
    A: I hope so – they seem perfect for each other.

    Q: What do you think of the shift in Anton’s demeanour?
    A: I think she’s only seeing his true self now and it’s not necessarily a shift from his side.

    Q: Vasalie isn’t sure if she can trust Anton’s intentions after her experience with Illian. Do you think Anton is being genuine?
    A: I do think he is genuine, yes. She will learn to trust him over time.

    Q: What do you think Anton was going to tell Vasalie about the Glory Court?
    A: That it’s made up, I hope!

    Q: Anton and Basile have a very lively relationship. What do you think of this in comparison to Illian’s relationship with his staff?
    A: it’s so much more genuine and respectful – I loved it!

    Q: What do you think of the interaction between Anton and Copelan in Chapter Thirty?
    A: ooh it was really tense 🤣 I love how Anton just showed up.

    Q: Do you think Copelan’s confession is a little too late?
    A: Yup. Came crawling back just like I thought he would. Good on Vasalie for not giving him the time of day.

    Q: What do you think of Anton being everywhere Vasalie is?
    A: I think it’s so sweet and that he is probably concerned for her safety.

    Q: Were you surprised to see Laurent at the Gathering again? He mentions that he has forgiven Vasalie. Would you have forgiven someone for betraying you that easily?
    A: I’m so happy we got to see him again and that he is okay! Laurent is a better person than me because I don’t know if I would have been able to do the same in such a short span of time.

    Q: Does finding out about Illian’s childhood allow you to understand the current Illian more?
    A: A little, but it does not justify his actions.

    Q: What do you think of the image of Anton with glasses on his nose and lost in a book?
    A: I love that he is so down to earth!

    Q: Vasalie seems to have uncovered another plot. Do you think Laurent will inform Anton so that he has enough time to act?
    A: I hope he was able to but I don’t think there was enough time.

    Q: What do you think of Copelan’s betrayal? Do you think it came from his jealousy?
    A: Everytime I think he can’t disappoint us more and then he does.

    Q: Despite her current situation, Vasalie has been given something so that she can protect herself. What do you think of Anton keeping his word and finding a way to arm Vasalie?
    A: Marry this man.

    Q: Do you think Vasalie should have put all her hope in Esmée?
    A: Desperate times call for desperate measures. Esmee is just too blind to see what mess she is in herself, unfortunately.

    Q: What do you think of the dance that Vasalie and the other performers have put together for the last show?
    A: I wish we could see it! I’m really hoping the author has some suggestions to watch that she based her work on!

    Q: What do you think Illian has done with Anton and his comrades?
    A: I was so scared they killed him 😭

    Q: Illian has successfully framed his brother for treason that he did not commit. What do you think of Brisendale flocking immediately to Illian’s side? Do you think that King Rurik is truly incapable of seeing how he is being played?
    A: I don’t know… I think he has something to gain from Illian.

    Q: What do you think of Vasalie’s plan with the flags and her father’s cap? What will the others’ reactions to it be?
    A: I don’t know. I also don’t understand the significance behind this act 😭

  13. Rozanne (@rozanne_visagie) Avatar
    Rozanne (@rozanne_visagie)

    I think that Vasalie is his comfort. We’ve already seen the difference in Anton whenever he is around her, her presence brings him comfort.

    I feel that with everything that happened, his real feelings and personality are shown.

    I don’t blame Vasalie for being cautious, but I think Anton is being genuine.

    I think he was going to tell her what the Glory Court really is. I feel it’s something he hides behind so that no one knows his true self.

    I think this just shows how caring Anton is. He is the opposite of Illian and his selfishness.

    This scene was tense and just one of the moments that make it hard to put the book down.

    Definitely, I feel his confession is too late.

    I think he’s shadowing her, trying to protect her, but also because he has feelings for her.

    I wouldn’t be able to forgive a betrayal that easily. Laurent is using this as a facade to make Vasalie trust him.

    Absolutely, I feel this helps in understanding his character, but it doesn’t justify his actions he’s making as an adult.

    I love this image! I would love to see artwork for this 🙂

    I hope there is enough time to act, but since we’re so close to the end, I am nervous.

    I couldn’t believe Copelan’s betrayal! I think it doesn’t just stem from jealousy.

    I love Anton! The fact that he’s the only one through all of this who stays by Vasalie’s side.

    I don’t think she should have put all of her hope in Esmée, especially in the way people are betraying each other so easily,

    The dance sounds wonderful, and I wish there were a way for us to see it. It would make wonderful art.

    llian is keeping Anton as a prisoner; there’s nothing else that I could think of when it comes to Illian.

    Everyone is so quick to fall for Illian’s lies. I wonder what he promised Brisendale.

    Vasalie had a good way of warning the others; hopefully, someone will be smart enough to understand.

  14. @onthe_book_case Avatar
    @onthe_book_case

    I really do!! They’re becoming such a cute pair that I’m really wishing them all the best

    It’s an interesting shift – one I definitely expected with the way the story was going 👀 I’m very excitedly looking forward to seeing how this plays out

    He hasn’t proven himself to be untrustworthy yet, so I’m really hoping he is being genuine. Vasalie deserves it.

    That it doesn’t exist 😭 This “court” has been mentioned so many times now, but I still think it’s a front for something else or that it doesn’t exist. Anton just isn’t the type.

    I absolutely love their banter!!! It just shows that Anton truly is a good person who cares for others. I can’t even imagine that Illian ever had this type of relationship with his staff.

    TENSE 😳 It was tense… I’m really beginning to question why Copelan was ever an option as a love interest.

    Oh 100%. No question.

    He’s a bit obsessed – in a good way. I love that he’s really making sure that she’s safe and not being pulled into any more schemes. I’m really loving their dynamic

    This was such a happy moment!! I love that Laurent was back and better than ever! His forgiveness came so easily and it was really nice to see that, especially since Vasalie was put into such a difficult position. I don’t think I could’ve forgiven that easily…

    It did bring clarity, but not understanding. I don’t think anything could excuse his behaviour anymore

    🤭😮‍💨😉😛

    Ugh everything is going wrongggg!! Laurent has to act. NOW.

    Not surprised just disappointed… His “want” became jealousy and it’s so frustrating.

    As I said before: he’s always making sure that she’s safe and I really love that. Anton is making sure that she has contingencies for when he’s not there and it’s most definitely helping!

    Eish… 😔 I’m not trusting anyone not on Anton’s side right now so no, I don’t think she should’ve. Hopefully it still pays off though.

    Absolutely stunning!! I wish I could have seen it!

    😔 And so it begins… He’s been captured…

    People will see what they’re being shown and nothing more. I’m not surprised that they’d follow the king that’s proven twice now that he’s not shy to put a brother down that has “betrayed” his people. King Rurik just has to be smart – though I doubt he will be.

    Honestly, I didn’t completely understand what she was doing here or what the purpose was. I just hope the people in attending understood and realised what was happening.


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