We went back to dockside. Because we had nowhere else to go, and no idea what to do when we got there. I felt sick and scared and helpless. We knew something terrible was going to happen, and our power to do a damn thing about it felt so limited.
Ms. Jackson was droning pleasantly from the little radio, talking about the Darkside Police Department’s plans for an increased presence at the Unmasking Day celebration, and then she cut out.
Citizens of Darkside came a familiar voice—boyish, almost cheerful-sounding. But it stopped the blood in my veins, made me tug hard at Maraud’s reins, stopping her so short she snarled.
“Sorry, girl,” I said, and kissed the top of her head.
The Shield said, Please forgive this interruption. My followers have temporarily jammed the signal for several radio stations, to permit me this opportunity to speak to you directly.
All up and down the block, people were hearing him. Some looked angry. Some looked excited. Happy. Proud.
At this moment, I am addressing the Refugee Princess.
Ash flinched. She was well-disguised, but suddenly I felt like we were both exposed. Visible to anyone.
Are you listening, Princess? I think you are. I know you found me. I felt you watching. Come to me, now, alone, and I shall trade your freedom for that of your two friends. No harm has befallen them. By morning, I cannot promise this will still hold true.
“Monster,” I hissed.
People of Darkside. Tonight—finally—the truth will be revealed. The thing Queen Carmen has tried to keep hidden for so long. The proof that her time is over. I call on her to abdicate now, and set a date for free and fair elections.
Some people on our block cheered. Others looked like they were about to cry.
Do so now, or I cannot guarantee your safety and that of your beloved othersiders. Once they know the truth, there is no telling what the people of this city may do to you. And to all the monsters that live among us.
“We have to go,” Ash said, her mouth inches from my ear.
“Please,” I said. “Wait. Don’t do this. Not without—”
She told me where to find the movie theater. She did not listen to my additional attempts to talk her out of this mission, or respond to any of them.