Danna

She sat on Seshi’s back staring down Cole.

“You will be delicious,” Seshi said, his tongue flicking out of his mouth.

“Danna,” Cole said, he was shaking. She smirked at that. “Please, don’t.”

“Do you remember the night you came to me?” She asked. Cole stared at her. “My father hadn’t even been dead a month. I was scared and lonely, and you told me I had two choices, I could come with you or you would buy my house and make me.” He swallowed. “Did you think I wanted you? Did you think I liked being held down and treated like your toy?”

Fear filled his eyes and Danna could practically taste it, she thought of how fear had become so flat for her, she barely felt it, like she barely felt it when he hit her, hurt her while he took his pleasure, but his fear was potent, and she realized what she was feeling was coming through her bond with Seshi.

“I wanted to take care of you,” he said.

“You wanted to own me,” she shouted. “And you had finally found my price. If you run now, disappear, you can live.” Seshi growled. “I mean it, I won’t chase you, but I never want to see your face again.” He then and Seshi let out a large flame just as her was out. Then he flew off and they landed further out where Prior and Nika were waiting.

“He’s still alive,” Nika said with a frown. Danna nodded.

“Yes, but how did you know?” Danna said.

“She’s the Priestess of Amina,” Prior explained, “Death is kind of her whole thing.”

“Oh,” Danna said, she dismounted.

“She was merciful,” Seshi said, “I have an honorable rider,” he nudged her. Danna pressed her forehead to his nose, and then she looked at Prior. He looked curiously at her.

“So,” Nika said, “are we going to Dovetail? Is that how it’s going to work.” Danna nodded.

“I have to do some things first.” Danna said. Prior nodded. “Can we go in the morning?”

“Of course,” he nodded. “Tell Tanner I’ll see him in a little while to settle my bill.” She smiled gently and hopped on Seshi’s back, they flew out to the small homestead, and they settled.

“Danna?” Tanner walked out. “What the hell?” She swallowed.

“Lord Seshi, this is Tanner,” she said. Her friend looked at her and then at Seshi.

“I am glad to meet a friend of Danna’s,” Seshi bowed. Tanner swallowed and an older woman walked out. Danna smiled at Tanner’s mother.

“Ah,” she said. “I’m glad you embraced it, Danna.”

“Thank you, Mama Asa,” Danna said softly. “I’m leaving.” Tanner smiled then.

“Good,” he said. “We’ll take care of your father.” She hugged him tightly. “I love you.”

“I love you too,” she said. She jumped up on Seshi and they flew off. It was time to go.

Danna

She watched the Commander ride off and she looked back at Seshi.

“You have accepted it then?” He said. She swallowed.

“I still don’t think my riding you is a good idea,” she said. Seshi exhaled through his nose. “But yes, I’ve decided.” She pressed her lips into her mouth as he dipped down. “Now?”

“No time like the present,” he said. “You are feeling brave, after all.” She swallowed. “Same as you would a horse, my dear one.” She boosted herself up and straddled his back. “Hold on to the spikes. Perhaps the Dovetail Queen will have record of the saddles, but for now, simply hang on tight.” She had no idea what he meant by saddles, but the her launched and she screamed and closed her eyes tightly. He let out a roar that felt joyous.

Then Seshi found the wind and they soared with it. Danna managed to open her eyes and exhaled. She’d dreamed of this, she remembered suddenly. Seshi swooped down and she laughed loud and long.

“Do you see why I wanted this?” Seshi asked.

“Hush,” she said, “I told you so isn’t becoming.” He laughed again and they flew over the village. “Will you fly us to Cammadan?” She asked.

“I will bear you, you are my rider,” he said. “And as a favor, also your mate.”

“Prior is not my mate,” she sighed and stopped herself. It was not worth continuing to argue. They landed on a promontory. She dismounted.

“You fought that for two years,” Seshi teased. “What do you think now?” Danna laughed.

“I apologize for my delay,” she said. “Do you want me there when you explain to the others?” He nudged her.

“No,” he said softly. “No, I will handle them.” She nodded.

“Danna Finn?” She jumped and turned. A woman in a black robe with brown skin, a long nose and amber eyes had appeared next to her.

Her face was familiar. But Danna couldn’t place her. She was a witch though, and Prior had mentioned witches being troublesome.

“Who are you?” She asked.

“There’ll be time for that later,” the woman’s voice was alarmed. “We’ve met before. But Prior is in trouble.” Danna felt her heart lurch.

“Cole,” she whispered. The witch nodded. “Seshi, will you bear her?”

“Yes, daughter of Mariah,” he nodded. “I will bear you,” the witch nodded and climbed on his back and headed towards town.

Danna

Danna Finn woke up and stretched cracking her neck on each side, the sun must have been up for hours, because it was blaring through the window. The man next to her grunted and rolled over and pulled her close.

“Where do you think you’re going?” He kissed her neck, and his hands were holding her just a little tighter than necessary for affection.

“I gotta get to work,” she mumbled, squirming a little. One hand ran down between her legs the other up to her breast. “Cole, come on,” she exhaled. How could he possibly want more? They’d gone for hours the night before.

“I’ve told you that you don’t have to work anymore,” he whispered, but finally let her go. She rolled her eyes and found her dress on the ground and pulled it over her head. “You’re my girl, I’m gonna take care of you.”

“Tanner’s been good to me,” she kissed him gently. “I don’t want to leave him in a lurch.” Cole snorted.

“That trash can handle his little watering hole,” Cole said. She frowned at him. “Come on, baby, just a quick ride before you go.” She crawled over the bed and kissed him deeply.

“I’ll see you tonight,” she said.

“I’ve got the boys tonight,” he said. She rolled her eyes. “You got your work, Danna, I got mine. I’ll buy you something pretty to make up for it.”

“What would your Daddy say if he knew you were spending his money keeping trash like me happy?” She teased. He gripped her chin.

“What would your Daddy say knowing you spread your legs for a useless rich boy like me?” His jab was sharper.

“I’m gonna go,” she said, shrinking back.

“Come on, I was kidding,” he said, and gripped her wrist. “I shouldn’t have, I’m sorry.” She nodded and pulled away. “We’ll come by tonight and get you, yeah?”

“Sure,” she mumbled. She tied her long red hair back and walked out of the bedroom. Cole followed after her, though he didn’t say anything, he didn’t need to. He’d made his point. She knew exactly what her father would think of her being here, in this house, in Cole’s bed.

He’d tell her she could do better. He’d tell some story about their family, and Cammadan, and magic. But Danna had stopped living in her Da’s stories, and Cole was a son of a bitch, but she had a roof over her head, and food in her belly.

Who cares if he fucked her too hard, or held on too long and too hard when she was trying to walk away? Or that his teasing never quite felt like teasing, like he knew he was sending an arrow right to her heart?

“See you later, sweetheart,” Cole said softly and lay a kiss on her shoulder.

“See you later,” she whispered and walked out towards the barn. She grabbed her horse, and rode into town and tied it off, walking into the small but well maintained board building that housed Tarren’s Bar. Tarren himself smiled at her from behind the bar.

“You’re early,” he said. She shrugged. “What’d he do to piss you off?”

“Don’t worry about it,” she teased and grabbed a mop and bucket and started on the floor.

“You might want to crash here for a few,” Tanner said. She frowned at him.

“Cole won’t like that,” she muttered. “Why?”

“Rangers are near by,” he smirked. She exhaled.

“The rangers never bother Cole,” she shook her head. She always assumed he paid them off. Cole bought what he wanted. He’d bought her, too. “What do you know, Tanner?” Her friend exhaled.

“There are two witches with them,” he said, “and one of the border Princes.” She raised an eyebrow. “Those green coats can be paid off, I’d kind of like to watch Cole try to get rid of a witch with a bag of gold.” Danna swallowed. Tanner’s grin wasn’t for no reason, his Wyan mother had often told both of them that one day the reckoning would come for the Cammadie in Westran, who were poor stewards and bad guests.

Danna’s father had often said the same. We’re not meant for this place, Danna, someday we’ll go home. When the queen comes. But her father had died, and the queen had come, and Danna didn’t know what home was, but the idea of leaving this place, hard as it was, to go to some green field that she didn’t know didn’t feel right either.

If Tanner thought these witches were the reckoning, maybe she should finally go. Go where? What would be different in Cammadan? She had nothing and no one there, here she had nothing but at least she had Tanner and Cole.

She walked over to the bar.

“Two witches?” She said. He nodded. “Her?” He rolled his eyes.

“I doubt Lady Anaia would come here,” he said. She grinned at him. “That’s like asking if your girl Queen came riding through.”

“Queen Annalise almost married the Chieftain,” she grabbed a bottled beer and popped the top off. “She might have come here if she had.”

“And instead he married a nice Wyan girl,” he smirked, “my people won that war.” She laughed and the doors swung open.

“Are you open yet?” A female voice said. Tanner nodded at the girl, speak of the devil, a ranger in a green tunic, with an axe strapped to her back. “Thanks, we’re starved,” she strode in and was followed by two more rangers, one a boy with almost white blonde hair tied back in a tail, and the other a dark skinned woman with her hair in braids, the prince followed them, or she assumed he was a prince, white, with dark hair and a chiseled jaw, wearing a brown leather vest, and a long knife on his belt, he was flanked by the witches.

Danna felt something rumble, deep in her, not sure what it was. Our blood is magic, Danna, Da would say, you need to look for it. Listen for it. But Dad was crazy. Both the amber eyed, brown skinned women in black, didn’t even glance at her. They looked right at Tanner who was staring at them.

“My Ladies,” he said coming out from the bar and kneeling for them. “You honor me.” One of them, with silky black hair that she was wearing down her back smiled softly at him and turned up his chin.

“You honor us,” she said.

“Is there food?” The other one said, her hair was veiled and the look on her face was amused. “Then I think we can talk about honor?” Tanner rose and looked at her, Danna kept watching them.

“Of course, Lady Nika,” he said. “My Prince,” he bowed to the other one. “High Lady Brea.”

“High Lady?” The beautiful one preened, “that’s new, I like that.” The Prince groaned.

“Yes, what you and my brother need are more titles,” he said, and she settled in to a seat and stuck out her tongue at him.

“Hush Rian Riordan,” she said, then she noticed Danna and her amiable mood seemed to evaporate. Danna looked away and went to get them water, she left it on the table and they started laughing and chatting. The beautiful witch watched her like a hawk though. She went back into the kitchen.

“What was that?” She asked. Tanner was standing in front of a tray staring at the ice box. “Tanner, are you alright?”

“Lady Nika is here,” he said, “Lady Brea is here,” he exhaled. “I have to feed them.” She crossed her arms. “They’re the daughters, Danna! Chief Walkin and Lady Anaia’s daughters, Lady Brea is married to the Chieftain.”

“Oh,” she said. “This is very exciting for you, then.” Her friend glared at her. “Give me that,” she grabbed the tray and filled it with bread and cheese from the box. “I’ll take care of them while you get yourself together.” She went and laid it out. “I apologize, Tanner is a bit, erm,” she said as they reached out and grabbed at the foot, “over come?”

“I have that effect on people,” the blonde ranger winked at her. The Veiled witch, Nika, Danna remembered rolled her eyes.

“He’s Wyan?” She asked.

“His mother,” Danna explained. “She lives just north of town.”

“We will go see her,” Lady Brea said, her face somewhat softer, but she still had Danna in her sights it seemed. “And you are?”

“Danna Finn, Lady,” she bobbed gently. “I can bring drinks if you like.”

“We do like,” the dark skinned ranger girl smirked, she’d leaned into the princes’s arm casually draped around her. Danna nodded and served them. Their chatter was interesting, mostly teasing, eventually they took rooms and went up to bathe. Tanner had recovered himself and as Danna went to clear the tables Lady Nika walked over to her.

“I apologize for my sister,” she said. Danna swallowed and nodded. “She dislikes the Cammadie presence on our land, it’s not personal.”

“You’re riding with the rangers,” I pointed out. She shrugged.

“We all have our hypocrisies,” she smirked, “and she’d argue the rangers beat the alternative.” Danna nodded. “Regardless, you have my apologies.” She walked away silently. Danna swallowed, she had a feeling Lady Nika had done this a few times.

“You should go home,” Tanner said as she helped him set for when the mines got out and the farmers settled their days.

“This morning you wanted me to stay here,” she reminded him. He exhaled. “Tanner,” she said. “What do you think is going to happen?”

“I don’t know,” he said, “I just have a bad feeling.”

“He’s not going to be there,” she shook her head, “he said he’s coming by for me whenever he’s done whatever it is he’s doing.” Tanner inhaled. “He doesn’t tell me what it is, it’s not like that.” Tanner frowned.

“What is it like?” He asked. He fucks me when he feels like and I don’t starve to death. She knew she couldn’t tell Tanner that. She looked at him and shrugged. “Danna,” he whispered, “what are you doing?”

“What we’ve always done,” she said, picking up a crate of empty bottles, “surviving.” She walked them out dropped them behind the store and looked up a the stars with her arms crossed. A breeze blew threw and a voice enveloped her.

Don’t run, Danna Finn, it was low, rumbling, male, but not human, she was sure of that. Wait for me. I have waited for you. She swallowed. So she was going insane in addition to everything else. She turned and walked back into the bar. Cole had arrived with his boys and waved to her, they were bragging loudly about what they’d “found” that day.

They hadn’t found shit, some miner probably had. She noticed the ranger party had settled in another corner and the arresting amber eyes of the witches were on her as she walked over.

“Hey beautiful,” Cole grinned and pulled her into his lap. “We scored big today.” She nodded.

“Cole, be careful,” she said. He laughed.

“Aw, you worried about me?” He nipped at her neck. She exhaled. “Is my girl great or what?” The group snickered. She met Broderick Dorthrin’s eyes, and thought of the time he’d cornered her at a mid summer festival and she’d stroked him off to get him to leave. She’d held that back, and Broderick must know it too, because he watched her constantly. “The greencoats and the savages won’t bother us.”

“Prince Rian’s no savage,” Lady Nika had walked over with a smirk, “I’ll cop to the label though. Mistress Danna, I was hoping you could find water for a bath for me? It’s been a long ride and I think the soak would do me good.”

“Of course, my lady,” she stood up and followed her. “You had a bath, I don’t know if I can scrounge more,” she admitted.

“You seemed uncomfortable,” the witch shrugged. Danna looked at her.

“Oh, no it wasn’t like that,” she looked down, “Cole’s my man.” She regarded me skeptically but then shrugged.

“I see,” she said, Danna turned to go back to work. “Danna Finn,” Danna turned and met the witch’s eyes, their amber color deepened and her face serious. “Whatever it was that you heard on the wind, I would heed it.”

“I don’t understand,” Danna said, “did you hear it too?” Lady Nika’s lips curled into a smile.

“No,” she said, “but I can feel your power, and the wind in this place is strange, and talkative and the wheel is about to turn.” She turned and left.

Danna swallowed. I can feel your power.

There’s magic in our blood, Danna. Da had sworn it.

That night after Cole had had his way, Danna drifted off to sleep, and dreamt of the sound of beating wings so loud it almost thunder, and she was soaring over the mountains towards the moon.

Wait for me, Danna Finn, the voice boomed. I have waited for you.

Note: This is the first ever interlude that doesn’t have it’s character’s next step already defined by the story. But, for what comes next for everyone else, Karina’s similarities to Annalise really do need to be clear (they are ridiculously alike, as reading about her here will make clear, I hope.) There’s a reason why Rana wants them ruling the world together.

Karina

She stood nervously as they walked into the gates of Rastan Palace. She was wearing a simple black gown and her hair was tied back in a knot.

“You need to calm down,” her best friend, and official court companion Lady Katrin Lestoff said. Karina swallowed. “Kristoff invited you, he wants you here.” Karina frowned.

“It isn’t that,” she looked at her. “Doesn’t something feel wrong?” Kat frowned at her.

“It’s colder than any normal person would ever want to be,” Kat said. Her older brother, Damian, Lefty, coughed to cover a laugh. Karina sighed. “I thought you loved it up here.” They royal family walked out, all, well what felt like a hundred of them.

“I’ve enjoyed myself on my visits,” Lefty shrugged.

“Lefty!” One of the Princes walked over, “wonderful to see you.”

“And you, Your Highness,” he grinned.

“Oh,” Kat muttered. “Now I see.” Karina stifled a giggled.

“Prince Nikolai, may I present Princess Karina of Phania, and her companion, my sister, Lady Katrin Lestoff,” Lefty said. “Your Highness, Kat, may I present Prince Nikolai.”

“I hope you ladies enjoy your time here,” he said, taking each of their hands and kissing them. “My brother is glad you were able to come, Princess.” He stepped away with a wink. “Lefty.”

“Nicky,” Lefty sighed. “Maybe I shouldn’t have taken this assignment, I’m going to get into trouble.” Karina giggled.

“Nicky?” Karina said. Kat rolled her eyes.

“You’ve never been front row to Lefty’s antics before,” Kat said, “it’s amusing. Like watching a dog chase it’s own tail.”

“Lefty,” Princess Rila walked over, her ice blonde hair in an elaborate braid topped by a black mourning veil. “We weren’t expecting you.”

“Your Highness,” he took her hand.

“Her too?” Karina mouthed to Kat, who shrugged. Then he walked over. Karina swallowed. His light hair and blue eyes were perfect, just as she’s always imagined them.

“Karina,” he whispered.

“Kristoff,” she said. She wanted to throw her arms around him. “I am so sorry about your father, Your Highness,” he smiled gently.

“Thank you, Princess,” he said. “You came.”

“You asked,” she breathed out. Kat cleared her throat. “This is Kat, she’ll be following us.”

“Chaperoning,” Kat said sharply. “I don’t like it either.” Kristoff laughed.

“I’m glad to meet you, Lady Lestoff, I of course know your brother,” he said. Kat nodded. Karina took his offered arm. He was perfect, she realized, everything she’d wanted him to be. They had moved into the hall, Karina and Kat had been presented to Raniere, and on their way out, they bumped into a man with salt and pepper hair, and stormy grey eyes intercepted them.

“Your Highness,” he said. His accent was Cammadie. “It is our honor to have you in Rastan.”

Karina felt a chill go down her spine.

“I don’t know you,” she said softly.

“Princess,” Lefty was at her side, he met the man’s eyes. “Master Braga, I understand?” His voice had changed. “The King mentioned you. We’ll have to discuss Cammadan, you must miss it.”

“I don’t believe we’ve met,” this Braga said cooly.

“Captain Damian Lestoff,” Lefty said simply, “Princess, it’s been a long day.” She nodded and he pulled her out. Kat was already waiting in their suite. “You are both to avoid that man, do you understand me?”

“Lefty, you can’t just,” Kat started but the look on his face was so serious, she stopped. “Who is he?”

“That’s Brayton,” Karina said, “isn’t it?” Lefty nodded. “How is he here?”

“I don’t know,” he said. “How did you know?” Karina shook her head.

“I don’t know,” she whispered, “it just, I just knew. But also, his eyes. Eric talks about Annalise’s grey eyes.” He nodded.

“Dami,” Kat’s voice went soft, reverting to the name she’d called him when she was small. “Are you alright?” He swallowed. He wasn’t, he would tell them that he was, he would make some joke, and laugh. That was what Lefty did. But this time he didn’t.

“Look at me,” he said, “both of you. Eric and Daniel sent me to keep you safe, and that got a lot more complicated, knowing this, so please, just promise me, stay away from him, as much as you can.” They both nodded. “Karina, write to Raymond, assure him everything is alright, that you arrived safely.”

“Are you going to write to Duchess Marina?” Karina asked. He swallowed.

“No,” he whispered. “Anything we’re sending to Dovetail will likely be read, he can’t know that Marina,” he was shaking. Karina had never seen him like this. “He can’t know anything about her.”

That night Karina wandered across the suite to Kat’s room and curled up in bed with her.

“You can’t sleep either?” Kat said. Karina shook her head.

“What’s wrong with Lefty?” She asked. Kat sighed.

“Brayton tried to kill him,” Kat said softly. “Not even kill him, turn him into a shadow. Not to mention what he’s done to the Duchess over the years,” she sighed. “He’s going to be very protective.”

“Hm,” Karina curled into her friend. “Kristoff is very handsome.”

“You knew that,” Kat laughed.

“Yes, but I didn’t know how handsome,” she said. She paused. “You have to help me be alone with him.”

“Karina, no,” Kat groaned. “Especially not now, Dami’s going to be relentless.”

“Please,” Karina said, “Kat, please!” Kat sighed. “Please,” she pressed her face against her neck.

“Goddess, you’re annoying,” Kat sighed. Karina giggled. “Of course, I’ll help you.”

“Good,” Karina said, “and when I’m queen I’ll pay you back.”

“You have such a back log of favors, I think you’ll have to give me the throne,” Kat giggled.

The next few days were calmer, Lefty was acting somewhat like his old self, though the way the Rastanis were reacting to him made Karina remember that he’d changed a great deal over the past few years, but they’d watched it happen gradually, so it felt less shocking. He gave both Prince Nikolai and Princess Rila wide berth, which only made them more persistent.

“Karina,” Kristoff whispered to her, one night while they were sitting watching a dance performance. He was seated just behind her, “I want to show you something.” She looked at him.

“I’m enjoying myself,” she said. One finger traced against her shoulder, and she inhaled.

“I’m sure you are, lovely,” he said, “but I’m also sure we could be enjoying ourselves a great deal more.” She felt the heat rise into her cheeks. Kat looked at both of them sharply. “Are you enjoying the performance, Lady Katrin?”

“You’re both going to get into trouble,” Kat muttered, and Karina looked at her pleadingly. She sighed. “I think I could use some air,” she said a little more loudly, Lefty looked over at her. “Dami, it’s stuffy, we’re going for a walk.” He exhaled.

“Fine,” he mumbled. His eyes hadn’t left Brayton all night anyway. They stood up and walked out of the room where Kristoff was standing waiting for them.

“So,” Karina said, “what is it that you wanted to show me?”

“Have you seen the Ice Garden yet?” He asked. She shook her head. “Come on,” he took her hand and they rushed out to a courtyard. They were handed fur cloaks by footmen waiting. Kat trailed behind looking at the large ornate ice sculptures. “What do you think?”

“I think when we first arrived, Kat was right,” she pouted. “It’s too cold here.” He smiled and took her waist and pulled her close.

“Let me warm you up then,” he mumbled. She giggled as he kissed her, gently at first but it grew intense, quickly. “I’ve wanted to hold you for so long.” He whispered. “I know I’m not supposed to say that, I know we’re supposed to act like we haven’t always known we’d be together.” She looked up at him. “But Karina, I’ve loved you through our letters for as long as I can remember.”

“Kristoff,” she mumbled as he kissed her again. “I,” she said softly. “I love you too.” He smiled widely at her. “You’ll come back with us? When we go home?” He kissed her again.

“Darling, I want to,” he said, “more than anything, but it’s mostly up to Raniere.” She bit her bottom lip. Of course, just like her, he was subject to someone else’s will. Her to her father, him to his brother. She looked over her shoulder and saw a very annoyed Kat, standing far enough away for plausible deniability but not so far that they could truly slip away.

“I wish we could be alone,” she whispered.

“At some point we’ll go on a hunt,” he whispered. “And we’ll go to the lodges.” She looked at him. “It’s very easy to be alone in the lodges, Karina.” They kissed again. She didn’t know what that meant, but the idea of some sort of wood cabin, a roaring fire and Kristoff sounded absolutely amazing.

Karina was watching Lady Carolina Dugarry and Lefty carefully. The gossip about them had seized the entire court, and if she didn’t know better, she might even believe it. They made an excellent show of their flirtation, and Lady Dugarry in particular played her role as a bored and neglected wife, flattered by his attention, to perfection. It’s a role she’d watched her mother play many times to bring allies to her side. The number of men in Phania who claimed to have Queen Elana’s heart was probably countless. Playing it with Lefty was risky though, the Rastani seemed to love gossip, but Princess Rila in particular did not like her former lover’s new pursuit.

She understood why they were doing it though. Brayton was, even in his disguise, keeping his distance from Lefty. Their “affair” was keeping him away from Lady Dugarry as well.

“I suppose she’s used to Scandal,” Rila pouted as they sat in a sleigh one day.

“Rila,” Kristoff cautioned his sister. Karina looked at her.

“Well, I’m only saying,” she sighed, “her marriage was challenged, and there’s the whole business with her husband and Queen Annalise.” Karina looked at Kat.

“Queen Annalise and Captain Dugarry ended their affair years ago,” Kat said snappishly. “Before he even met Lady Carolina.” Rila laughed.

“Of course,” she said. “Publicly.” Kat scowled at her.

“Rila, I think Lady Katrin might have more intimate knowledge of the situation,” Kristoff said. Karina smiled at him as she snuggled into his side. “I don’t imagine the Queen deceived her brother.”

“My Uncle and Queen Annalise were very much in love,” I said, “he was heartbroken when my brother asked him to end the engagement. But our lives aren’t our own, and that can end badly, don’t you agree Princess?” Rila swallowed and looked away. It wasn’t even gossip that Rila despised her husband, a crony of her father’s twice her age and given to drinking and womanizing, merely a fact.

“There’s no reason to be cruel, my love,” Kristoff whispered in her ear before kissing her neck gently, but he was laughing. They were rushing off the hunting lodges for the night and in the morning they’d be after a stag. Karina was looking forward to it. The approached what looked almost like a children’s play village, about ten small wooden houses arranged in a circle. She understood what Kristoff had meant about how easy it would be to be alone here, as he lifted her from the sled to help her. His hands lingering on her waist. A footman helped Princess Rila and then Kat out. “I’ll find you tonight,” he smiled and kissed her. She grabbed Kat’s arm and squealed as they followed the footman to their small cottage. Karina giggled falling back against the bed.

“Karina,” Kat said seriously, “I know what you think is going to happen tonight but I think that maybe,” she exhaled. “I just think you should be cautious.”

“Why?” Karina said. “Kristoff and I love each other and we’re going to be married.” Kat bit her bottom lip.

“But you might not be,” Kat said softly, “we were just talking about it. Eric was sure he was going to marry Annalise and your father changed his mind. He could change his mind about Kristoff too. I just want you to be careful. I don’t want you to get hurt like my brothers did.” Karina went and hugged her friend.

“I already love Kristoff,” she said, “if it doesn’t work I’ll already get hurt. At least this way I’ll get to remember being with him, I won’t regret anything.” Kat nodded. “You’ve always said you wanted an adventure, but you’ve been so cautious since we left Phania.” Kat sighed.

“Where am I supposed to sleep?” Kat whined. Karina sighed, that was a difficulty.

“What about Caro?” Karina perked up. Kat rolled her eyes. “Oh, I’m sure she won’t mind.”

“It might blow her cover,” Kat pointed out. “I’m sure everyone expects her and Dami to spend every minute of this hunt together.” Karina looked down, Kat was saying without saying what they were both thinking. What if the affair wasn’t a lie? What if like her and Kristoff, Lefty and Caro had been looking forward to this opportunity to be alone together? “I’ll ask her,” Kat stood up and wrapped herself in her cloak and walked out. Karina smiled and giggled falling back against the bed. After dinner which was held outside in the middle of the circle of cottages over a fire, she adjourned to her cottage, and Kat went elsewhere. It was a few minutes before Kristoff slipped in the door.

“I told you it would be easy here,” he whispered. She giggled as he kissed her and they fell back against the bed. She lost herself in their touch and kisses, and as he made love to her, she felt the world melt away except for him.

The next day they all rode out into the woods, Karina spotted the stag, drew her bow, said a quick prayer to Rana and let fly. As it moved through the air she saw a vision, one that had been denied her for as long she could remember. She was kneeling before the High Mother on the steps of the palace in Vacana, and the Goddess’s Crown was being placed on her head. Kristoff stood to one side of her and Uncle Raymond the other.

The arrow struck the stag’s heart, and he fell. She understood then. There was a path for her, she just had to find it. Because what lay at the end was glory.

“It’s not unheard of,” Queen Elana of Phania said softly, her husband Daniel frowned, “There have been Chosen boys, your whole bloodline claims the title.” She was watching as her younger brother Raymond was standing on the beach moving waves.

“It’s different,” Daniel said. “Your brother is unsettling, Elana, even The Mothers say so.” She sat down.

“He’ll inherit Tumona,” she said.

“Well, we’re used to Tumona being peculiar,” Daniel smirked. She sighed. “And that doesn’t even address the…other part.”

“If you mean that Raymond likes boys, does it need addressing?” Daniel’s brother Eric was leaning against the door frame. Daniel sighed looking at him.

“Why are you here?” He muttered between clenched teeth.

“Am I supposed to be elsewhere?” Eric asked. “You haven’t sent me anywhere specific, and my mother is here.”

“We’re always happy to see you Eric,” Elana said diplomatically and walked over and kissed him on the cheek.

“Just you?” Daniel said. Eric sighed.

“Lefty opted to stay in the city,” Eric said, “I can’t imagine why, when he always gets such a warm welcome.” He looked down. “I need to talk to him.”

“Raymond?” Daniel said. Eric nodded. “Why?”

“I’ve been having these, feelings,” Eric shrugged, “about her.” Daniel stared at him.

“Who?” Elana said and then paused, “oh, her.” Eric nodded. “Are we sure she’s alive?”

“Reasonably,” Daniel said with a sigh.

“Anyway, I’m going to talk to Raymond about them, and then I will get out of your hair,” he kissed Elana on the cheek wand walked down to the beach. The younger boy looked over at him and smiled. “They’re up there worrying about you.”

“Imagine my shock,” Raymond said, “The Brothers said no again, I’m out of appeals.” Eric nodded.

“I’m sorry,” he said. “You could come on The Glory.” Raymond looked at him. “You hate it here, Raymond, I know that.”

“You had another vision,” Raymond said. Eric rolled his eyes. “What this time?”

“I could just be being nice to you,” Eric pointed out. This time Raymond rolled his eyes. “They aren’t visions, exactly, more like, feelings. Like she’s thinking about me, and I can hear her, and I know she’s just,” he sighed, “waiting.” Raymond nodded. “I don’t know what to do about it, I don’t know where she is, no one does.”

“She’s in Cammadan,” Raymond said, “somewhere green, probably The Midlands.” Eric looked at him. “Rana’s not likely to let us forget she’s out there. I know everyone thinks I’m crazy, but I Dream. And sometimes she’s there.” He sighed. “They found me and Randolph.” Eric exhaled. “They weren’t happy.”

“I’d imagine not,” Eric said. “But, a strong sailor like him, and a seer who knows how to actually do all the stupid ambassador stuff that Daniel is always making me do? That seems valuable from where I stand.” Raymond looked at him. “It’s a big world Raymond. You don’t have to spend your life in a place with people who don’t see you.” Eric looked at him. “If I had to guess, it’s Brightcoast and then Rastan next. We’d be glad to have you along.” He turned and walked back to the palace. Raymond sat on the beach and hugged his knees.

Later that night he took a deep breath and worked his way to the villa on the palace ground where Randolph Eres lived with his parents. He knocked on the door and Randolph opened it.

“Ray,” he said and stepped out onto the porch, “you probably shouldn’t be here.” He shut the door behind us.

“I know you’re technically six months from getting a posting,” Raymond said, “but Eric offered to put us on The Prince’s Glory.” Randolph raised his eyebrows. “I know it isn’t perfect, but we could be together and,” he looked down.

“This is real,” Randolph said, Raymond nodded. “Prince Eric wants us on the ship?” Raymond rolled his eyes and they took each other’s hands and started walking towards the beach.

“Eric likes to feel like the Goddess herself put him here to save people,” Raymond shrugged, “but it’s convenient. We’d go to Rastan and probably Cammadan too.” Randolph smiled and kissed him.

“Cammadan,” Randolph said. Raymond nodded. “We could be together there, really together.”

“I know,” Raymond said, “I could learn magic, real magic not just control like they teach here. And you’d be out of the navy proper, really sailing.”

“Under Prince Eric,” Randolph grinned, “And Damian Lestoff, it doesn’t get better than that.” Raymond glared at him. “He’s not my type, Ray.”

“He’s everyone’s type,” he muttered. Randolph kissed him gently. “You’re sure. I don’t think we can turn back from this.”

“No turning back,” Randolph nodded. “And this way I don’t have to tell my parents yet.” Raymond laughed and they kissed again. “What did your sister say?”

“Very little,” Raymond admitted, “I think if they acknowledged it, then they’d have to you know, acknowledge it, and she won’t.”

“I’m sorry, Ray,” Randolph said softly. “I wish we lived in a better world.” Raymond nodded and they kept walking.

A year later he sat on a dock in Rastan, when Lefty bounced over and sat next to him.

“Have you heard the news?” Lefty said and bumped his shoulder, “We’re off to Cammadan. Eric has to fulfill his destiny and woo Queen Annalise.” Raymond nodded. “You can be Mastero Quents! It’s a reason to celebrate.” Raymond laughed.

“And you’ll get to find out about Cammadie warrior women,” Raymond teased back. He wasn’t great about it yet, but he’d almost gotten the hang of taking the air out of Eric and Lefty’s sails. Lefty laughed. “How is he?”

“Worried,” Lefty said, “It isn’t as thought that’s difficult to understand. If I thought the Gods were genuinely counting on me wooing a girl I’d probably need to be locked in a dark room for a very long time.” Raymond smiled and nodded. “How are you doing?”

“Alright,” he said softly, “it isn’t exactly what I expected.” Lefty nodded.

“You know when Eric told me his plan to bring you on,” he said, “I told him there was no way you’d do it.” Raymond looked at him. “I’ve never been happier to be wrong.”

“Why didn’t you think I’d come?” Raymond asked. Lefty ruffled his hair and shrugged.

“Because you’re the little boy with his books and prayers,” Lefty said, “I can’t help that I’ll always see you that way.” Raymond smiled. “It never made sense to me why The Brothers wouldn’t take you.” Raymond snorted.

“I have this feeling that was always more about my sister,” he muttered. “They don’t like being seen as They Royal Family’s dumping ground.”

“Ah, that,” he grinned, “well, I think Brinecliff would have to challenge them for that particular honor. It is our distinction.” Raymond laughed. “Come on, Eric told Raniere that we’re leaving there’s going to be one last hunt.”

“Great,” Raymond said, “something new and different.” Lefty laughed and stood up, offering him a hand to help him up. He’d been more nervous than anything about spending much time in proximity to Damian Lestoff.

The man was impossibly handsome. And kind and charming. And Raymond felt almost no attraction to him. Being with Lefty and Eric was the easiest thing in the world. He grabbed his hand and pulled up.

It was a few weeks at sea and then a whole one of careful sailing down river to Dovetail’s large dug out harbor when they arrived at what had to be these least opportune moment possible. It was before dawn and they’d missed the coronation.

“It’ll be memorable at least,” Randolph had teased him.

“It’s disrespectful,” Raymond mumbled. “We should have left Rastan earlier.” But there they were, standing on the dock, a girl, who was clearly Phanian, and a boy, tall, and lanky, with reddish hair.

“Not quite the grand welcoming comittee,” Lefty muttered. Eric glared at him. “I’m only saying.”

“Is that her?” Eric said to him. Raymond shrugged. “Alright.” It wasn’t. Instead of was Duchess Marina SanPierre, and her smile was one of the most breathtaking things Raymond had ever seen. She was also, he realized, the most powerful person he had her been the presence of, and that included the High Mother of Vacana.

“I am very glad that’s over,” Eric said flopping on a couch in the richly appointed apartment they’d been sent to. Lefty was staring dreamily out the window and Raymond wrinkled his forehead. “You’re worried.”

“No,” he shook his head, “they’re powerful. Did you feel it?” Eric nodded, Raymond was glad of that. Eric wasn’t very gifted, but he had some intuition that pointed towards it. “The Duchess especially, astounding.” Lefty looked over at us.

“She is, isn’t she?” He said and sighed walking back over. “Did you see those eyes?”

“I don’t think Raymond is talking about the same thing, Lefty,” Eric said. “But yes, even I could feel how powerful she is and I don’t have your insights, and she’s very beautiful too.” He stopped. “They both are.”

“You have the queen, leave something for the rest of us,” Lefty said kicking Eric.

“I don’t have her,” Eric mumbled, “but knock yourself out with The Duchess. I have to go see about the crew.” He stood up and walked out.

“What are you going to do?” Lefty said, Raymond sighed.

“I should probably go to the temple,” he said. “We had a safe voyage. She likes to be thanked. Want to come?”

“To the temple?” He said. “And get drowned in my sleep for trouble, no thank you.” He kicked back. Raymond rolled his eyes and stood up. “Raymond,” he said, “is she dangerous?” he swallowed.

“I don’t know,” he said softly. “She’s powerful, but it doesn’t feel dark.” Lefty nodded and he left, asking the guards for directions to The Temple of Rana.

The walk was distracting, he kept noticing things, the kinds of things he’d never see on the street in Vacana. Two women being chased by a little boy shouting, “Mamas!” at them, a merchant boy handing another boy walking into an inn a flower. He entered the temple and was greeted by a Sister.

“You’re a stranger here,” she said with a kind and giving voice. He nodded. “I’m Sister Anya, welcome.”

“Thank you,” he said. At home he was one of only a few men welcome in the Temple at all. To be welcomed as a stranger felt exceedingly odd. “My name is Sir Raymond Quents, I’m a companion to The Prince of Phania, we just arrived I wanted to thank The Goddess for the safe voyage.” Sister Anya’s lips turned up in a smile.

“Of course,” she said, “there are several salt basins available.” She gestured to the alcoves surrounding the circular center of the temple. He nodded, mumbled a thank you and he went to a Salt Basin and gently waved his hands over it before losing consciousness.

“Oh well done!” A dark skinned woman was standing in front of him. “Really, you didn’t waste any time.”

“My Lady,” He nodded sagely. “Thank you for,” she waved her hands dismissively.

“Yes, yes, safe voyage,” The Goddess Rana sighed, “as if I would imperil my Sword’s Future Husband and one my own.” He blinked at her.

“If I’m Chosen then why,” he drifted off.

“Was it what you wanted,” she said softly, “to be a monk, shunted away and alone?” He swallowed. “I brought you home, Raymond. And I ask only that you stand at the side of My Sword.” He nodded.

“I will,” he said softly. She smiled gently at him. A smile that somehow reminded him of his mother and sister, but with more love and less indulgence.

“I haven’t had a High Priest in a while,” she said, “it might be fun.” He then lost consciousness again and came to, still standing at The Salt Basin in the temple. He closed his eyes and exhaled, realizing his life in Cammadan just got very very complicated.

Mercy Graves hurried quickly through the courtyard in the palace of Dovetail to the hedgemaze and through it to the center, where sitting calmly and serenely was Lady Marina Sanpierre. She was moving her hands over the water of the salt pond and it was rippling and rising up in small waves.

Marina was the closest thing to a friend Mercy had. There weren’t many people their age at the palace who weren’t in the guard. But she was also in awe of The Little Duchess. She was so small, and yet contained so much power. And she was beautiful, with her brown skin, and curled hair and quiet smile that so few people ever got to see.

Mercy knew that Marina would probably be Queen some day. Whether crowned in her own right because Princess Annalise was long dead, or as consort to Lord Brayton. It was good for her to be near her. Their friendship was productive. At least that’s what her father said.

“I’m sorry to interrupt,” she said. Marina looked over at her. “They’ve asked everyone to come to the hall.” Marina sighed.

“Oh, alright,” she said, “do you know why?” Mercy shook her head. Marina slid her arm through Mercy’s and they walked through the hallways. Mercy felt an electricity shoot through her.

“Something’s happened,” Marina said and slid her arm out and she started looking around. “No, they aren’t here.” Mercy swallowed and realized what, who, Marina meant.

The Dugarrys. General Thomas Martin.

“Lady Marina,” a girl from the guard walked over to her. She wasn’t a soldier, though, she was in blue not green. She was a healer. “Sir Tristan went to see his Uncle. He said to tell you that he’d see you at dinner.” She nodded.

“Thank you,” she said softly. “Is he,” she swallowed. “He’s alright?” Mercy rolled her eyes.

“He’s alright,” the healer girl said. “Lady Athena too. The General has been exiled.” Marina nodded.

“I should find my father,” she whispered. “Are you alright?” Mercy nodded.

“Of course,” she said, “always.” Marina squeezed her hands and disappeared into the crowd. The healer looked at her awkwardly. “That was kind of you. She worries about him.”

“He worries about her,” the guard girl smirked. “I don’t think either of them realize why though.” Mercy giggled. “I don’t think we’ve met. I’m Elodie.”

“Mercy,” she said and shook her hand. “You’re a healer, so you have magic?”

“Some,” Elodie said and they started walking. “Mostly though it just makes me better at my job. I can perceive things and move medicine through the body.” Mercy nodded. “What about you? You’re always with Lady Marina, do you have,”

“Oh no,” Mercy interrupted her, “no.” Elodie nodded. “We’re just friends, or friendly really.” She was blushing, she realized.

“Alright,” Elodie smiled. Someone called her name, “Duty calls.” Mercy nodded. “It was nice meeting you.”

“You too,” Mercy said as Elodie bounced away. Mercy swallowed, her throat dry. Only Marina had ever given her butterflies like that before. Surely it was because Elodie also had magic.

Elodie looked back over her shoulder at Mercy and smiled. She was pretty, with her red hair and her overly fashionable gown. She glanced around and notice Lady Athena standing with her fiance, Warren Davis. Davis was holding Athena’s face in his hands and she was nodding. Elodie swallowed and walked over to her.

“I’m so sorry my love,” she heard Davis say. “But you understand?”

“Of course,” she said softly and kissed him. “Go, I’m sure you have work to do.” He nodded and walked away. Elodie saw her friend’s face change to one of blind rage.

“Do we know it was him?” Elodie asked. Athena nodded. “I’m sorry, My Lady.”

“I know,” she said softly. “So is Tristan, and Martin. Everyone’s sorry, even Warren.” She sighed. “You may have to go to Camp. Are you ready?”

“I think so,” Elodie nodded. “It’s been a while. I’ve gotten used to things here, but change is always good.” Athena laughed darkly. “Lady Athena, if you need anything, please let me know.”

“I’m alright,” Athena said and walked out quietly. Elodie frowned and sighed walking out to the barracks. She flopped onto her bed and closed her eyes trying to sleep. But sleep didn’t come. She got up and quickly walked outside to the main courtyard.

There was some whispering from the people around but it was mostly silent. The barracks had been breached, Thomas Martin was branded a traitor. Nothing made sense.

Elodie frowned as she saw the moonlight streaming through the trees and saw Mercy sitting. Then she smiled in spite of herself. She’d always kept her distance from Court Ladies. They reminded her of the wealthy merchant daughters who came into her father’s inn when she was little, all softness and beauty disguising sharp edges and sadness.

But Athena wasn’t like that. She often reminded herself. And Athena was both, a noble lady and a wealthy merchant daughter in addition to the fiercest warrior in Cammadan. Still, Elodie made most of her friends in the guard and healer corp.

“We don’t have to choose,” Athena had shrugged, once when Elodie had asked her. “I’m not just one thing. No one needs to be.”

She walked over and Mercy looked at her and smiled shyly.

“Is it alright if I sit?” Elodie said. Mercy nodded and she sat. “It’s been a trying day.”

“I’m sure,” Mercy said softly. “My father says it’s a glorious one, traitors don’t deserve our sympathy.” Her hands were balled in her skirt.

“General Martin would sooner cut off his own head than betray Cammadan,” Elodie said defensively. Mercy looked at her. “I don’t mean to contradict you,” she said, “he’s been very good to me.” Mercy looked at her.

“I think my father is very afraid,” she said softly. “And he thinks Lord Brayton is safe.” Elodie nodded.

“And what do you think?” She asked. Mercy looked at her surprised, as thought no one had asked her that before. “You’re close with Lady Marina, aren’t you? Surely, that’s safer.”

“Marina isn’t,” Mercy stopped. “There aren’t that many other people to talk to. Besides which, she’s going to be Queen. Surely you’ve seen how Lord Brayton looks at her.” Elodie grimaced. They all saw how Brayton looked at The Duchess, like she was a skittish animal for him to tame and conquer. It was unsettling. “She’s lucky.”

“Do you really believe that?” Elodie asked. Mercy swallowed and looked at the healer.

She didn’t. Well, she believed Marina was lucky, because she was beautiful, had a father who loved her, friends like Tristan Dugarry and powerful magic. But not because of the attention Brayton gave her.

“I don’t know,” Mercy admitted softly. Elodie nodded and they locked eyes. “I wish you’d stop looking at me like that.” Mercy said.

“I’m not looking at you any way in particular,” Elodie said softly, and pushed a strand of hair behind her ear but then turned her gaze away. Then both girls laughed. “I like you.” Mercy looked at her. “You don’t have to say anything, but well, it’s not something a person hears everyday, so,” Mercy smiled blushed, turned to her and kissed her gently.

“I like you too.” Mercy said. Elodie smiled and they pulled close. She smelled good, like flowers and something sweet, and she was so soft. Mercy’s hands were tangled in her hair keeping them close, as Elodie slid her hands onto her waist. “I don’t normally do this,” Mercy whispered when they stopped for breath.

“You’re good at it for someone who doesn’t normally do it,” Elodie grinned.

The next few motnhs, Mercy found herself more often than not in Elodie’s small room in the barracks at night. She’d lied to her father, saying that she’d been asked to wait on Lady Marina, which of course thrilled him. She knew he’d never approve of Elodie, who was working class and firmly in the Anti-Brayton camp of officers.

But Mercy thought she was amazing. That night she giggled as they kissed pushing gently against one another.

“I want you,” Elodie said softly. Mercy smiled coyly and rolled onto her back. Elodie laughed and straddled her. “You’re too beautiful,” she mumbled.

“Do you want me or not?” She said and pulled Elodie’s shift over her head. The door opened then they both heard a throat clear and a low laugh.

“Lieutenant,” Lady Athena Dugarry was leaning against the door. “Mistress Graves.”

“Lady Athena,” Mercy said with an eyeroll, pulling her clothes back on.

“Elodie, I need to speak to you.” Athena said. “If you aren’t too busy.”

“Of course not,” Elodie said. “Mercy, I’m sorry.” Mercy held up her hands and kissed Elodie on her way out. “Knocking, a novel concept, My Lady.” Athena snorted.

“I don’t know what you see in her, but I am sorry I interrupted,” Athena sat down.

“I don’t know what you see in half the men you’re with so we’re even there,” Elodie sighed. “What is it?”

“Um, you’re being asked to help escort Lady Marina to Camp,” Athena said, “I chose you for the assignment Elodie, I don’t trust anyone else.” Elodie closed her eyes. A few months ago this would have been the best thing to ever happen to her. But that was before Mercy.

“Why aren’t you doing it?” She asked. Athena sighed.

“Tristan and I are escorting Countess Olivia home,” she mumbled. Elodie bit her bottom lip. Of course. Athena had leaked crucial Resistance details to Warren Davis. She’d be given lower priority missions right now. “Are you up for it?” Elodie nodded.

“What’s the cover story?” Elodie asked softly. Athena sighed.

“She’s going home,” Athena said, “to Brightcoast. To study with the sisters there.”

“You’re going?” Mercy said when they met up in the garden the next day. Elodie nodded. “But why, you’re a healer, not a guard.”

“I’m both,” Elodie said, “and studying with the sisters in Brightcoast is a big opportunity for me.” Mercy swallowed and plopped down on the bench. “I’m sorry, Mercy, it is only for a few months, though, I’ll be back.” Mercy turned her head to look away.

“It’s fine,” she said, “go, it doesn’t matter.” Elodie nodded and sat down with her. She pushed her hair to the side and rested her head on her shoulder. “I love you Elodie.”

“I love you too,” Elodie whispered.

Sitting in Camp after victory hadn’t been what Elodie was expecting. The Twins were with the Pantonas and Princess Annalise. And all she could think about was if Mercy had been evacuated. She took a deep breath and walked into the command tent.

“General,” she said softly, “do you know where the evacuees were taken?” Martin smiled at her. “There’s someone I should find.”

“Of course,” he said. They walked through the celebrating camp. “We can’t know if she left, Captain Willis.” Elodie swallowed, the new title felt awkward.

“I know,” she said, “if I have to find her in the city tomorrow I will, but,” she trailed off. She quickly scanned around the group of tents and the chaos of this area. It wasn’t organized like resistance camp. But she checked each fire until finally seeing Mercy sitting with her father, warming her hands. She made eye contact and smiled and stood up quickly running over to her and throwing her arms around her neck and kissing her.

“I knew it,” Mercy said through tears, “oh I knew you’d be here!” Elodie kept kissing her all over her face and laughing. “Elodie, is it true?”

“What part?” She swallowed and pulled back and looked at her.

“That Princess Annalise is here,” she said. Elodie nodded. “Gods,” Mercy exhaled. “Have you met her?”

“Yes,” Elodie said, “and I got promoted. I’m a Captain now.” Mercy laughed and stroked her face. “And I’ve missed you.”

“I’ve missed you,” she whispered. “It’s crowded here,” she wrinkled her nose. Elodie laughed and took her hand and led her to the main camp.

“Elodie,” Marina walked out of the medical tent, “Mercy! Goddess!” She hugged her tightly. “Oh I’m glad you’re safe!” Mercy laughed and Elodie shrugged. “Oh! How silly of me. You two enjoy yourselves.” She winked and headed off.

“She seems,” Mercy cocked her head to side, “well different, I guess.”

“She’s changed a lot,” Elodie said as they walked into her tent. “You haven’t,” Mercy laughed and they kissed again falling back against the cot.

“You don’t know that,” Mercy giggled and then sighed as Elodie’s lips slipped to her neck. “I could have changed a lot.” Elodie laughed and unbuttoned her guard jacket.

“You still like that though,” Elodie whispered, sliding Mercy’s skirts up around her thighs. Mercy cooed happily. “And this,” she said and kissed her while sliding her hand inside of her.

“Mm,” she whispered, “yes, I do.”

After they’d finished Elodie buried her face in Mercy’s hair. That same smell from that first night in the garden, flowers and something sweet.

“Never go away for that long again,” Mercy whispered. Elodie smiled.

“If I do, you’re coming with me,” she said softly. Mercy smiled.

“That’s something I can definitely do,” she said, “I love you.” Elodie pressed her forehead to Mercy’s.

“I love you.”

Content Warning: This story contains references to and descriptions of Domestic Child Abuse. If you are aware of or suffering from Child Abuse, please contact your state CPS, (A list of United States CPS Agencies can be found at childwelfare.gov) or if you are in crisis contact the Crisis Text Line at 741-741

7 Years Before Crowning

Tom was pacing in the parlor, unsure what to do next. Trey was simply staring at him.

“Should we wake them up?” Tom asked. Trey shook his head.

“Let them sleep one more night not knowing,” he whispered. “Gods, my father, he’ll want them in Dorin.”

“They can’t go to Dorin,” Tom said, “Trey, Alexia made me swear, that they wouldn’t be pulled off the guard path. And besides which, they’re as much Dugarry as they are Dumanis. Dugarrys are in The Guard.” Trey frowned. “They can live here, can’t they?”

“Here?” Trey said. “Not the palace?”

“The Palace is no place from children these days,” Tom said, “I can’t even think, I need to,” he swallowed, “if he knew, if they knew, Trey, I have to go to Pantona.”

“I’m sure they have it under control,” Trey stood up. Tom looked at him. “She’ll send word, she always does.” Tom nodded but something felt wrong. John and Alexia were dead and had been for nearly a week and there hadn’t been word from Olivia. “We have to focus on the twins, you’re right about that. Athena is headstrong and stubborn already, and Tristan is sullen and quiet, without their parents, without their mission,” Tom’s heart suddenly broke, seeing his partner’s attempt to be strong. Trey had been close to his sister. He pulled him close.

“I know,” he whispered, “but I still have to,” he sighed. “I’m sorry,” he whispered and left quickly. He rode fast, through the flat land, stopping only to change horses and drink and eat a little, but he arrived at Pantona withing a few days.

“Tom,” Olivia exclaimed as he burst into the hall, she ran down the stairs and into his arms. “Oh I’m so glad to see you, we were so worried, is it true?” He nodded and burst into tears finally. She pressed her face into his chest. “Poor John, and Alexia,” she swallowed, “oh and those children, Tom, are they with you? Do you need,” he shook his head.

“They’re with Trey,” he said softly. She nodded and they walked into another room and sat down. “But you’re safe?” He cupped a hand against her cheek.

“Yes,” she said softly. “As is my son, and,” she stopped as a little girl came running in. “Lisette, please give us a moment.”

“Of course, Countess,” she said and curtsied gently, “sir,” she whispered to him and then pitterred out.

“Gods,” he whispered, “it’s like seeing a ghost.” Olivia smiled softly. “But you haven’t seen anything? No one has come or reached out?”

“No,” she said softly, “we’re safe.” He exhaled. “Your probably passed my husband on the road, he was going to make sure the twins and Lady Marina were safe.” He smiled. He’d never expected to grow fond of Caleb Pantona, but he had over the years. “Trey won’t be happy you came here.”

“Because it’s you?” Tom said. Olivia laughed.

“Partly,” she said, “and partly because she was his sister.” He nodded. “You must be exhausted, I’ll get a room set for you. Do you want to see the children?”

“No,” he said, “I’ll sleep and get back. You’re right, he’ll be furious.” She laughed and he touched her face gently, “I just had to see you, I couldn’t,” he choked on some tears. She nodded.

“I know,” she said softly, “I was frantic too, it’s why Caleb went. I can’t, but well,” he nodded and then kissed her softly. “Tom,” she whispered and pulled back, “no.” He sighed and looked down. “I’m sorry, I thought you understood.”

“No, I do, I shouldn’t have,” he sighed, “it would be easier, sometimes, if I didn’t. Then I could have gone on being angry at you.” She smiled and took his hands. “I wish so badly that I didn’t love you anymore, Livvie.”

“Oh, Tom,” she sighed, “I don’t think you do. I think you loved me when I was seventeen, and you love that idea. I love it too. There are plenty of times when I wonder, if,” she sighed, “we’ll always have a maybe, between us. But you have Trey, and now you have to be there for Tristan and Athena. They’re wonderful children, but this will be so hard on them.” He took her hand again and kissed it gently.

“No,” he whispered, “it’s not the idea of it, but that’s there, I love you, I think I always will.” She nodded.

“Mother,” a boy walked in, he was clearly awkwardly between boyhood and manhood, but tall, a little gangly. Tom hadn’t seen Aaron Pantona since he was a small child. The resemblance to Caleb was obvious, but there was more of Olivia in his face than he’d realized. “Lisette said we had a guest, I thought I should say hello.” Olivia sent him a crooked smile.

“Of course,” she said, “General Thomas Martin, may I present my son, Viscount Aaron Pantona.” The small Viscount bowed and Tom smiled.

“Your Grace,” Tom said standing up and extending his hand. Aaron took it and shook it enthusiastically. “If you’ll both excuse me, I think I ought to go to the inn.”

After arriving back in Dovetail, Tom walked into the house and was immediately blindsided by a tumble of blonde curls tackling his stomach.

“Where were you?” Athena Dugarry looked up at him, her green eyes flashing in anger. “Aunt Brie said we have to go to Dorin and I won’t! They can’t make me. I know that we can’t stay at the palace anymore with Mama and Papa gone, but I won’t go to Dorin!”

“Thena,” he sighed, “you do not have to go to Dorin. Where is your brother?” Tristan was sitting at the dining table and looked up at him. “Come along, and sit,” Athena obeyed, though she looked unhappy about it. The twins identical faces and hair, so like John’s, looked back at him. “I want you both to know first of all that you will always be safe. I won’t let any harm come to you.”

“We know that, Sir,” Trsitan managed, “but we don’t want to leave Dovetail, we told Uncle Trey that and,” he swallowed what was likely a very large sob.

“Good,” he whispered. “And Tristan, Athena,” he took one hand each, “I need you to be brave, I swore to your mother that I would take care of you and I take it very seriously. I’m going to speak to your grandfather and settle things. You are not going to Dorin, not if you don’t want it, and if you do want it, you won’t go without me.” He stood up and Tristan joined him and hugged him tightly. After releasing the boy he saw Trey waiting in the hall.

“How is she?” He asked.

“Coping,” Tom said softly, “thank you, for not just sending them.” Trey shrugged. “I know it’s hard for you to stand against your family Trey, I’m always grateful.” Trey nodded.

“You were right that it wouldn’t be what Alexia and John would want,” Trey said. “Caleb Pantona talked me out of it. He pointed out it would play into Brayton’s hands, and that you’d never forgive me for it.” They both laughed. “I loved my sister Tom, I love you, I couldn’t do something that would cause you so much pain.”

“I know that,” he said, “I shouldn’t have run off, it isn’t fair to you, to them, to whatever it is we’ve had for the past twelve years.” Trey smiled. “But there’s something in me, Trey, I love you, but whenever something goes wrong, in my guts, it’s her.”

“I’ve noticed,” Trey muttered. Tom frowned. “It can’t be like that now. Not with Athena and Tristan with us.” He nodded.

1 Year Before Coronation

“What do you mean she won’t go?” Brie DuCray exclaimed. Trey sighed. “She’s sixteen, she’s a member of this family, she will go to Dorin and be presented.”

“Brie,” Trey said, “if I had any measure of control over Athena don’t you think she’d be in this house rather than in the barracks and I wouldn’t be arguing that she shouldn’t marry that idiotic Davis boy.”

“She’s not marrying him,” Brie said, “Goddess, Father would lose his mind. We can do better.” She sat down. “Alex is cooling on the DuKarras girl.”

“No,” Trey said. “That won’t help anyone.” Brie frowned and the door burst open, Tristan walked in, his face red and flustered. “Tristan this is not a good time.”

“I’m sorry,” he said, “Hello Aunt Brie.” She nodded at him. “I just, the Black Guards came to the Barracks.” Trey walked over and took his shoulders. “I’m fine, Athena is fine.” Brie looked at her brother.

“Why were they there?” Trey said. “Tristan?” He swallowed.

“Martin’s been exiled,” he said. Brie closed her eyes and exhaled. “They know he’s leading the Resistance.”

“Living Gods,” Brie whispered. “But you two?” Tristan shook his head. “I have to tell Drea.” Trey nodded and Brie left. Tristan swallowed.

“He got away safely?” Trey whispered. Tristan nodded. “And you and your sister are both alright?”

“Yes,” Tristan said and collapsed. “He told me to come to you, well, us, but Athena,” Trey stopped.

“Davis?” He said. Tristan nodded. “Goddess.” Trey muttered. “I need to see him.”

“He’s gone already,” Tristan said, “he gave me a letter.” He handed it over.

“Where did he go?” Trey asked. Tristan shrugged. “You don’t know?”

“We’re too close to Brayton these days,” Tristan said, “I don’t know where Camp is. But I’m sure it was to Camp.” Trey nodded.

“Why are you so close to Brayton these days?” Trey asked. “Surely there are more useful places for you to be.” And safer. He thought to himself.

“We need to stay close,” Tristan said quietly, “Lady Marina, well.” Trey sighed. He’d seen though never met the “Little Duchess” as she was called. And Tristan talked about the girl enough. “He’s taken an interest in her.”

“I see,” Trey frowned. “It’s a practical move. Brightcoast is large territory. And she’s the heir, after The Princess.” Tristan nodded. “Don’t stay too long, if they’re looking for you, you should be wherever you’re supposed to be.” Tristan nodded and Trey hugged him close. “Stay safe, my boy, please. I couldn’t take it,”

“I know,” Tristan whispered and left swiftly. Trey opened the letter.

Trey,

Know that no matter what comes next for me, I will love you always. Please look after them while I’m gone. I can’t stand the idea of the three of you alone.

Love,

Tom

Coronation Ball

Countess Olivia Pantona smiled sadly looking over the goings on at the large ball. They were so young, and there was so much still to be done.

“Countess,” Trey Dumanis walked over to her holding two glasses of sparkling wine. “If you’ll permit me.” She smiled and took it.

“Thank you, Master Dumanis,” she said softly. “I understand we owe you some thanks. It all would have been more difficult without you.” He smiled and looked down.

“You know better than most,” he said, “how difficult it is to say no.” She smiled. “I am sorry about your husband. Caleb was a good man.” She swallowed and nodded.

“Yes he was,” she said and nodded towards Aaron who was dancing with a laughing Athena. “It seems we’re going to be family soon.”

“Yes,” he said, “my father couldn’t be happier.” She laughed.

“I can imagine,” she said, “he may find Aaron less pliable than he’d like however. Like a good country boy he has a skeptical view of The Guilds. He’s seen a few tenants get fleeced.” Trey smiled.

“Of course,” he said and glanced across at where Tom was standing. “It’s strange, having him back.” Olivia smiled at him coyly.

“Is he back?” She raised her eyebrows. Trey looked at her. “I am in mourning, Tristan, you have nothing to fear from me.”

“Olivia, you were married for thirty years and it didn’t matter to him,” Trey shook his head. She sighed. “I know you never encouraged him, it’s only, I spent most of my life in second place. I can’t keep at it until I die.” She nodded and raised her eyebrow again.

“You didn’t answer the question,” she smiled.

“He was,” he admitted, “just the once.” She giggled happily. “You’re behaving like a child, by the way, not a dignified dowager.”

“With Alexia gone, someone needs to tease you, your other sisters have always been useless at it,” she said. He smiled. “I never wanted to be between you two.”

“I know that,” Trey said softly. “You still are though.” She nodded.

Pantona

The burial had been harder than Tom expected, though he remained in awe of Olivia, she’d barely cried. He thought back to the night in camp, when he’d stopped himself from going to her, despite hearing her wailing. It’s why he’d come today even if it was not the most sound judgement.

Tenants had been coming in and out of the manor all day, and now it was quiet, he, Les and Olivia sat quietly in the parlor. Aaron had gone to the study with William Santino, “getting hideously drunk, most likely,” Livvie had said mischievously.

“You’re sure of that?” Les asked. She sighed and put her feet up on ottoman.

“It is the usual outcome when Aaron and William spend any amount of time together,” she said with a soft smile. Tom looked at her. “Granted it isn’t usually here, it’s at the inn, but still.”

“Why not here?” Tom asked. She sighed.

“Caleb didn’t really approve,” she said, “not of William, he liked him, but of Aaron’s, other activities in the area.”

“Farm girls,” Les laughed, “kitchen maids,” Olivia nodded. “The odd merchant girl if I recall correctly.”

“Precisely,” Olivia sighed. “No man will respect a lord who’s bedded his and half his neighbor’s wives.” Tom snorted. “He was so happy about Athena, Tom, really.”

“I know,” Tom said softly. “We’re happy too, really. But I worry about her, she can be rash.” Les smiled softly.

“She’ll settle,” he said, “all of them have endured so much. I hope peace suits them.” He paused. “I hope it suits us at that.” Olivia reached out and took his hand and squeezed it. “I think I need to sleep. Thank you for this, Livvie. It helped.”

“I’m glad,” she said, “I know I’m not Caleb, but I am here.” He smiled and nodded at Tom before leaving. “He might miss him more than I do.”

“He’s always been sentimental,” Tom said, “and being so isolated these past sixteen years couldn’t have helped.” She nodded and he walked over to her. “Do you miss him?”

“Yes,” she said. “I think I will more now, it’s been so busy.” She stretched. “But he’s at rest, and Aaron will be married and I can rest, and see my grandchildren when they come.” She sighed and looked at him. “You will be here?” She asked. He looked at her.

“If I’m wanted,” he said.

“Athena will want you here,” she said softly. He smiled.

“That isn’t what I meant,” he said, “and you know it.” She sighed and stood up, he took her hand as she passed him. “Livvie,” he whispered.

“Tom,” she sighed. “This isn’t what I thought would happen,” he nodded. “What about Trey?”

“There isn’t anything with Trey,” he said. She frowned. “I thought, maybe we could try again, but there’s too much hurt, too much change.”

“Oh,” she looked away. “And if I’m not ready?” He nodded.

“I understand,” he said, “but are you not ready, or not interested?” She looked at him and sighed and knelt down between his legs and pressed her forehead to his.

“I love you,” she said, “I’ve always loved you. It’s changed and grown so much.” He inhaled. “I can’t lose you too, Tom. It would be too much to bear. Anton and Marie and Anne and Alexia and John and then Caleb. If we try this and it doesn’t work out,” she swallowed. “I can’t lose you.”

“You won’t lose me,” he said softly, “don’t you think you would have be now?” She kissed him and pulled close. He lifted her up by the waist and carried her upstairs to her room.

When they’d finished and lay quietly together Tom gently traced a few scars on her back. They were new, or at least new to him. They hadn’t been there when they were young.

“What are these from?” He asked. She rolled over.

“My father,” she said softly. He stared at her. “It started just hitting me when I was disappointing, but when Anton announced his engagement, I required serious correction,” he exhaled.

“How didn’t I know?” He asked.

“I hid it,” she said, “I was embarrassed. Anton didn’t know either. John did. Caleb guessed, it was how we became close at first.” She exhaled. “It was a long time ago.” He kissed her deeply.

“You didn’t trust me?” He asked.

“No,” she sighed. “It’s hard to explain, I trusted you, but I also didn’t think you would accept my weakness. Of course it wasn’t mine, it was his, but,” she sighed. “When I lost my first baby,” she said, “I was terrified that Caleb would hate me, too, the same way my father did. But he was always so kind, and gentle.” Tom swallowed.

“How may were there?” He asked. “I remember the two others you carried.” She sighed.

“Five,” she said, “three before Aaron, two after. The two who died in their cradles, Mara and Joseph, they were the hardest. The others never even quickened, poor things.” She looked at him. “Do you regret not having children?” She asked. He laughed.

“Sometimes,” he said, “but I have the twins.” She nodded. “But if you mean do I regret spending my life with Trey, I don’t think I ever could, unless of course it meant I got to spend it with you.” She cooed softly and kissed him. “Did you know Annalise asked me if I was in love with Anton?” Olivia burst out in a laugh.

“Really?” She said. He nodded. “Were you? I feel like I would have noticed, I was very jealous. Of both of you.” He grinned.

“No,” he said, “I loved him, and if he’d wanted me I don’t think I could have denied him, but it was never that way.” She nodded. “Besides, I only had eyes for you for quite a while.” She smiled. “What do we do now?”

“Is it alright if we don’t know?” She asked. “I have a wedding to plan, and the gods knows what’s happening with Lisette.” He laughed.

“I sent Tristan into the Lion’s Den,” he muttered, “because the gods knows what’s happening with Lisette.” She laughed. “And I’m in no rush to explain it to Trey.” She smiled and they kissed again before snuggling into one another and falling asleep

Content Warning: This story contains references to and descriptions of Domestic Child Abuse. If you are aware of or suffering from Child Abuse, please contact your state CPS, (A list of United States CPS Agencies can be found at childwelfare.gov) or if you are in crisis contact the Crisis Text Line at 741-741

30 Years Before Annalise Is Crowned

Dovetail

“What do you think of her?” Olivia Bano said, sitting in the corner of the reception room as Marie SanPierre, the new girl from Phania was standing dear the Royal Family’s dais talking to Prince Anton.

“I think you are much prettier than she is,” John Dugarry said quickly.

“I have you too well trained,” she narrowed her eyes at him. He shrugged. “Look at how Anton is looking at her.” She sighed.

“Your father isn’t here you don’t need to pretend,” John said inspecting his nails. “Run along and make love with Tom in a closet or whatever it is you two have been up to for the past few months, I have to make sure this Phanian girl isn’t carrying poison.” She whacked him in the arm. “Ow!”

“How did you know about Tom and me?” She hissed. He laughed.

“It is the worst kept secret at court, Livvie,” he said. She frowned. “Before you ask of course Anton knows.” She sighed. “You didn’t really want to be Queen?”

“No” she said, and then sighed, “I mean a little, but it’s Anton, every time he touched me I just wanted to giggle and not in the good way.” John snorted.

“I can see that,” he said. “Your father doesn’t know.” She inhaled and looked at him. “But he’ll figure it out soon Livvie.”

“And I will handle it,” she said. He sighed. “I will. I always do.”

“I won’t cover for you this time,” he said. She looked down. “Anton won’t stand for it. Tom won’t.” He swallowed. “I shouldn’t.” He looked down. She stared daggers at him.

“He is my father,” she said. “He loves me and wants what is best for me.”

“What’s best for you is not both you eyes blacked and not being able to sit down for a week,” John said. She frowned. “Come to Dorin with Tom and me. You can enlist in the guard!” She rolled her eyes.

“I am not joining the guard and I am not leaving court to go to Dorin,” she said. “I’ve never understood this obsession of yours.”

“I am marrying according to my family’s cultural traditions,” he said. “And also I like Alexia, from her letters.” Olivia shrugged.

“If you say so,” she said.

“Lady Olivia,” A tall young man with auburn hair almost the same as hers walked past. “Sir John.”

“Viscount,” she blushed and curtsied gently. John bowed and then scowled at her. “Are you very happy that Lord Lestat has returned?”

“I have missed him,” Caleb Pantona nodded. “And his sister is a lovely girl, don’t you think?”

“Oh, I haven’t gotten to speak to her yet,” she giggled. “But I look forward to getting to know her.” The Viscount smiled and moved along.

“What was that?” John asked staring at her.

“Nothing,” she said and pushed her hair behind her ears. “He asked my father for permission to court me. It’s very common out in the country apparently.”

“I didn’t mean the Viscount panting at you, trust me I recalll that. ” he said, “I meant you encouraging it.” She rolled her eyes.

“Lady Olivia,” Tom Martin, his dark blonde hair cropped short and his guard uniform crisp. Olivia melted as they met eyes.

“Captain Martin,” she smiled. “John.”

“Trouble,” John muttered and took a big gulp of his drink as they took one another’s hands and slipped away. “Both of you.” Olivia stuck her tongue out at him as they slipped away into an empty room. He pulled her close and kissed her.

“Don’t go to Dorin,” she whispered. He laughed.

“It won’t change anything,” he said softly, “and I gave John my word.” She nodded. “I’m in love with you, Livvie.” She smiled.

“So stay with me,” she said. He kissed her again. “Please.” He sighed and slipped his hand through her hair.

“I promised,” he said softly. “Besides which, you have other commitments too.” She looked down.

“If you mean Anton and me, it isn’t anything,” she said. “I want you, I’ve only ever loved you.” He smiled and kissed her and she drew him back to a couch.

“I only love you too,” he said softly. She swallowed and nodded. She didn’t know if she believed him. Tom’s love felt unsettled. But his touch, and kiss were intoxicating, the feeling of him inside of her too good. And he was Tom.

He was handsome and brave and kind and adored her. Her father wouldn’t be happy, he wanted a grand match for her. But she would figure it out.

Dorin

Tom was trying not to laugh as John paced back and forth in the very large and ornate receiving room of the Dumanis House in Dovetail.

“I think the summer palace is smaller than this room,” Tom said. John glared at him. “Your in laws, are clearly wealthy, congratulations.”

“You’re supposed to be helping me,” John groaned, “this is not helpful.”

“Sorry,” Tom said, “how can I help? I could ask Jeremy to sell a farm so that I can give you a proper gift.” John looked at him and laughed.

“I am in so over my head,” he groaned. “Have you heard from Livvie?” Tom nodded.

“Mm,” he nodded, “Anton is in love with Marie Sanpierre. She is devastated.”

“I’m sure,” John said.

“Drea, what exactly is the big emergency,” a boy about their age bound into the room. Tom stared at him. He let out a laugh from his throat, “you’re not Drea.”

“No,” Tom said and stood up, “I’m Tom Martin this um,”

“John Dugarry,” The boy sighed, “I forgot that you were coming today. I’m Tristan DuManis, Trey, they call me Trey.” John nodded.

“Nice to meet you,” John said, “is your sister coming? Anytime soon?”

“Lexi?” Trey said. “Did you let her know you were coming about six hours ago?” Tom laughed.

“Trey,” a girl walked in, “stop it.” John looked over at her. Tom smiled, “I’m sorry for keeping you waiting, my father, and my sisters,” she exhaled. “I’m Alexia.”

“John,” Tom said, seeing his friend standing slack jawed. She was beautiful. Blonde hair and green eyes, and she was dressed in a green gown that was clearly designed to invoke the guard uniform. A nice touch. “This is the part where you talk.” Trey laughed from the corner and Tom smiled at him.

“I’m John,” he said softly, “and it’s nice to finally meet you.” She smiled.

“And this is the part where we leave,” Trey stood up. “Good luck.” Tom laughed and followed him out. “She hasn’t eaten in a week.”

“He may have caused more damage to his weapons than good with how much he was cleaning them on the ride,” Tom shook his head. “I suppose you’re next?”

“For the marriage market?” Trey asked. Tom shrugged. “No, I’m not,” he shook his head. “I don’t, not with girls, anyway, and the contracts don’t really allow for,” Tom smiled.

“I understand,” he said. “And it’s good to know.” Trey smiled back at him.

“I should let my father know that I’m here,” Trey said pointing in the general direction fo the hall. “Nice meeting you.” He walked away.

“You too,” Tom smiled. Then he exhaled. “What am I doing?” He mumbled.

Dovetail

“So that’s it then?” Tom stared at Olivia, “you’re going to marry him, throw it all away?”

“Throw what away?” She said calmly, her brown eyes full of tears. “Throw away you and Anton glaring at each other over dinner, while everyone pretends not to notice? Except he’s moved on too. Throw away you spending most of your time with Trey Dumanis and acting like I don’t notice the way you look at each other.” He looked away. “Throw away you leaving for six months? I love you, I do,” she whispered, “but you were gone.”

“Your father must be pleased,” he muttered. One last arrow, the only one left. She swallowed.

“He is, actually,” she said softly. “I love you, Tom. I’ve always loved you and I always will, but Caleb loves me. He’s a good man, and he’ll take care of me.”

“I love you,” he whispered. “I’ll take care of you.” He stepped closer and cupped her face. “Livvie,” he said and kissed her.

“You didn’t deny it,” she whispered. He looked at her. “You and Trey.”

“He’s a boy with a crush, Livvie,” he sighed. “It will pass. I’m yours.” She shook her head.

“You’ve never been mine,” she said. “And I’m tired of pretending.” She turned around and left.

Later that night Tom sat quietly on the steps outside of The Barracks, the large building where most of The Royal Guard lived. He’d thought he’d be leaving it soon. Married officers took homes, his brother had offered him a place on his land.

“There you are,” Alexia Dumanis practically skipped over. Tom smiled. He’d become very fond of her. He didn’t have sisters but he imagined if he did he’d care about them how he did Lexi. “You had promised not to abandon us. Instead Trey and I have been stuck at dinner with all those stuffy nobles.”

“I’m sorry,” he said softly. “Where’s John, I believe that’s his job really?” She sat beside him.

“John is with Prince Anton,” she said, “planning Lady Marie’s security.” He nodded. “How was your evening?”

“Lady Olivia is getting married.” He said softly. Alexia nodded. “I shouldn’t be surprised, I left for six months.”

“I’m sorry,” Alexia said, “I imagine you love her very much.” He looked at her and nodded. “She’s very beautiful. I can’t say I’m too upset though. I would be very happy to call you brother.” He laughed.

“Am I that blind?” He asked. She smiled slyly.

“Trey is cautious, and Papa thinks you’re a menace, but if you don’t see it then, yes, Tom Martin, you are blind.” She kissed him on the cheek. Tom nodded. He stood up and walked out of the palace and down the market to the large and ornate townhouse that The Dumanis family had recently purchased. He stepped in the front door and turned seeing Trey sitting in the parlor.

“What are you doing here?” Trey asked quietly. “Aren’t you supposed to be with Lady Olivia tonight?” Tom nodded. “So, why aren’t you?”

“I want to try something,” Tom walked over and kissed him gently. Trey lit up and they pulled close. “Alright, good, then, that’s good.”

“Do you have any idea how long I’ve been waiting for that?” The younger boy smiled. Tom grinned back at him.