Tag: children

The Priestess

Prior

He’d been settled in for about a week. This village wasn’t much but Tanner kept the tavern relatively quiet and clean. He got a bath every other day, never a guarantee in the desert.

He’d ridden out to a rock formation today, there was no further evidence of dragons, but there were rumors of clouds forming that never became a storm and he knew what that meant too. He stop to take a break and got off his horse and closed his eyes and took a deep breath.

“Hello Prior,” the voice that greeted him, made him laugh. He opened his eyes and standing in front of him was a Wyan Tribeswoman, cloaked in a black robe and her head wrapped in a veil. She had a long nose, and sharp face, brown skin and nearly amber eyes. She was leaning against a staff.

“Hello Nika,” he said back. She grinned and jumped into his arms. “It’s good to see you.” So she was actually here, not just projecting herself, among the Priestess of Amina’s many talents.

“It’s good to see you too,” she said. “Though a surprise.” He shrugged his shoulders. “Did my brother in law send you out into the wilderness to investigate something?”

“Livestock and shepherds have been disappearing,” he said. She nodded. “And apparently there’s been a rumor of dragons.”

“Perhaps the dragons have been eating them, and it’s nothing to do with the settlers,” Nika said. “Harran has grown paranoid.” Prior sighed and shook his head. Either was possible. But Harran wasn’t paranoid, that wasn’t his nature.

“He worries about the boy,” he said. “Something about his aunt not yet meeting him to bless him.” Nika frowned. “Why haven’t you been to the keep?”

“Why aren’t you in Dovetail?” She answered back. He looked away. “Mm, hypocrite.” He laughed. “My sister doesn’t want to see me, she made that clear while she was pregnant.” He nodded. “Why aren’t you in Dovetail?”

“I have work to do out here,” he shrugged. She cocked an eyebrow. “Nika,” he exhaled.

“Prior,” she echoed back to him. They looked at each other and she smiled sadly. “How is she?”

“I haven’t seen her in a while,” he said gently. “They’ve been spending a lot of time in Pharras.” Nika nodded.

“Revolution?” She raised an eyebrow.

“Not just yet, as far as I know,” he sighed, “but shoring up their allies for it.” She snorted. “You don’t approve.”

“She’s sacrificing her destiny to his,” she shook her head. Prior smirked. “What?”

“Nothing, I just didn’t realize your still cared,” he said. She scowled at him. “I’m not avoiding Dovetail because I don’t want to see Annalise.”

“No?” She crossed her arms. He shook his head. “So who are you avoiding? Your uncle? Tristan?” He frowned at her. “Oooh, it’s not Annalise, of course.”

“He doesn’t like me being there,” he said, “and it makes things difficult for her. So, I stay away.” She nodded and they both sat down. “There’s this woman in town, she’s involved with a local merchant.” Nika looked at him. “I don’t trust him, and she’s,” he exhaled, “she knows more than she’s telling me.”

“Prior,” Nika said, her voice full of warning, “if he is on the level.” Prior groaned and stretched. “Do you want to burn that particular bridge.”

“I’m not lighting any matches,” Prior grinned. “What’s the worst case scenario? I piss off an apprentice in the middle of nowhere and I have to spend a night smiling and eating shit with Carland Dumanis to smooth things over? I have a feeling I can handle it.” Nika frowned. “Are you going to stay?”

“I’ll go where the Goddess leads me,” she said enigmatically.

“Uh huh,” he nodded. “And The Goddess led you here?” She grinned. “Right, so mysterious,” she giggled. “Well, do try to tell me before you leave, Nika.”

“I will,” she smiled. “I am glad to see you.” He nodded. “Two years is a long time to chase something Prior.”

“I’m meant for this,” he said. “I know it.” She smiled. “Like you knew.” She sighed and stretched. “How is Her Eternal Evilness?”

“Amina is not evil,” she said.

“Debatable,” he said, she whacked him in the shoulder. “You need to forgive yourself Nika.” She exhaled. “Marina’s forgiven you and Brea will get there.” She looked down.

“Rian can’t forgive me,” she whispered. He exhaled. “And Brea will never forgive me for that.” He hugged her and then got back on the horse and rode into town.

He glanced at the tavern and then at another building across the way. A pretty young woman sat out on it’s porch. A man approached her, slid her hair behind her ear, offered her a small bag and she smiled, took his hand and led him inside. He tied his horse off and walked into the tavern. Tanner was behind the bar.

“Hey Commander,” Tanner said with a smile. He liked the man. He poured a beer from a dark brown bottle and Prior took it. “Rough day.”

“Interesting,” Prior shrugged. “Across the way, it’s a pleasure house?” Tanner laughed and nodded.

“Jade’s,” he said. “She’s good at her job, her girls are well taken care of, and know how to take care too, if that’s what you’re looking for.” Prior nodded.

“You don’t consider it competition?” He teased. Tanner snorted.

“Nah,” he said. “If I even considered keeping girls, both my mother and Danna would stop speaking to me.” Prior laughed. He would have to visit, not necessarily for sex, though if he saw someone he liked it wasn’t out of the question, but to see if Jade displayed yellow roses, the sign that some of Carolina’s “friends” were in residence and if he had to collect a report.

The past few years, sex had been strange for him. After Annalise, when he’d sleep with someone else it had felt empty, he’d long for her, and it wasn’t fair to the women he’d been with. That had faded in time, but he hadn’t been in love again. Sometimes he wondered if he ever would be.

The door opened and Cole walked in, flanked by three other men, who, over his time in town Prior had noticed were his flunkies. Tanner’s back straightened, and Prior put on his amiable courtier face.

“Tanner,” Cole said, Tanner nodded tersely. “Commander Chastain, nice to see you.” Prior nodded at him. “I came for Danna.”

“She left early,” Tanner said simply. “Probably went home.” Prior was still holding Cole’s eyes. He didn’t like or trust this man. He was trying to take Nika’s advice.

“I realize I’ve been remiss in my hospitality,” Cole said, Prior smirked. “Why don’t you come home with me, Commander, I can welcome you properly.”

“Happy to,” Prior said. “I’ll see you later, Tanner.” The Wyan man nodded and Prior followed Cole out. “I appreciate the invitation.”

“I was a little worked up when you first arrived,” Cole sighed. “But it would be an insult to my clan and our queen to not extend you what I can.” Prior nodded and they both rode off, towards a large white stone house on the edge of town.

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Lying

Danna

She’d slept a short enough time that she’d made it back to the house before Cole awoke. She made him his breakfast and kissed him before he rode off and she sat down.

She wasn’t his wife. She’d never be. He’d probably import some little girl from Dorin eventually, he was a merchant and that was their way. Whether he’d keep her or not was something she tried not to think much about. For now, Cole meant security, no matter how many little pieces of herself she had to trade.

She rode into town and got to the tavern, Tanner wasn’t behind the bar, or in the main room, so she wandered bak to the kitchen where he was fighting with a pot of porridge.

“Let me,” she said softly. He sighed and looked at her and nodded. “About last night,” she started.

“Don’t worry about it. I wasn’t interested in watching Cole get into it with a Ranger anyway,” Tanner said. Danna nodded. “He took a room.”

“Because you love complicating my life?” Danna groaned. Tanner grinned. He was her oldest friend, the closest thing to family she had left, and the only person who could consistently get under her skin.

“He’s good looking,” Tanner said.

“I didn’t notice,” she muttered.

“Bullshit, you didn’t notice,” he snorted. “You were damn near twinkling at the man.” She frowned at him. “Cole took it OK?” She shrugged. “Danna,” he said softly. She thought of the black eyes, the time that Tanner had ridden to the house and told Cole if he laid on a hand on her again he’d kill him. Cole was careful with her face after that.

“Tanner,” she said back.

“You’re alright?” He asked. She nodded. “Good, you can talk to the Commander when he comes down then.” She groaned.

“Tanner, this isn’t a fairy tale,” she reminded him, “the handsome aristocrat from Cammadan isn’t going to sweep in and save me. I’m doing fine on my own.”

“First of all, no you aren’t, you’re selling yourself to a man who hurts you for far less than you deserve,” he said. She bit her lower lip, “And, second, I don’t think he’s like that.”

“Who’s like what?” They both jumped at the deep voice from the doorway. The Commander had finally made his appearence.

And, alright, maybe she could admit that he was attractive. Certainly the bath he’d clearly had and sleep in a bed had done their work. He was tall and broad shouldered, with dark hair that grew just past his ears, and fell in a pair of stunning blue eyes. He was smiling and it was an inviting and genial look.

“Oh, I was saying you won’t want to eat Tanner’s cooking,” Danna said pleasantly and Tanner pinched her. The Commander laughed. “But if you’re hungry now it’s all we have.”

“I can wait,” he said. She nodded. “I’m glad to see you again, Mistress Finn. I hope you had pleasant evening.” She blinked.

“Pleasant enough,” she said and squared her shoulders. He nodded. “I’m sorry I had to run out.” He was looking at her in a way she couldn’t quite define, some combination of curiosity and lust.

“I don’t mean to be too nosy,” he said. “But your,” he paused, “friend. What’s his surname?” She blinked. He meant Cole.

“DuPrentar,” she said. He nodded. “Is there a reason why you need to know?” She crossed her arms.

“I’ve spent some time in Dorin,” he shrugged. “I thought I might have crossed path with some of his family.” She opened her mouth to say something but them thought better. “We’ll speak soon.” He disappeared again. Tanner was grinning.

“Not a word,” she said. He held up his hands. “He wanted to hear about dragons, why is he asking about Cole?”

“Yes, there’s absolutely no reason why anyone from your girl queen’s army would be interested in Cole,” Tanner said, his voice laced in sarcasm. “A loud wealthy merchant apprentice who’s decided to make himself the big man of this glorious village we call home isn’t suspicious at all.” Danna sighed and pulled out some dough and began kneading it.

“If he asks too many questions,” Danna frowned. “It could end badly.” Tanner looked at her.

“Danna,” he said softly. “Do you love him?” She blinked at her friend. He’d never asked her that before. He’d lectured and cajoled her, comforted her, eventually accepting that she’d made her decision, even if he didn’t like it.

“Yes,” she said. Tanner nodded. “And he loves me too, in his way. He does take care of me Tanner.” She could keep telling herself that. But Seshi’s words from the night before echoed in her mind. How much of herself was she giving away for this?

Prior

He sat in the small room staring the candle flame, he’d chanted the small spell required and sent the note off.

Ran into an apprentice, a miner. Claims to be DuManis clan. Cole DuPrentar. Invited me for dinner, he’s out west of the temple gap.

He set it into the flame and waited for an answer. Carolina’s candles didn’t work instantly, but they were quick enough. And he’d known he’d need to know how careful he had to be around the man.

A paper fluttered into the flame, Carolina’s perfect script present on it. He smiled softly, he could almost hear her controlled careful, low voice as he read the message.

I know the name. I debuted with his sister. Ask for his charter, there is some mining out that way. I’ll ask Trey for more information.

And then another flutter.

Chase says he misses you. Tristan and I do too. He laughed and leaned back. He did miss them, but they were busy and if he were in Dovetail, he wouldn’t be. There was nothing for him to do there. And there was the small needle stabs of watching Annalise and Eric.

He didn’t love her anymore, but it didn’t make watching her happiness easy. Busy was easy, and there was no business for him in Dovetail.

He rubbed his face. But it had been two years with very little to show for it. He’d found The Wheel of The Gods, and he had barely found evidence of the dragons. It was disheartening. Meanwhile, Tristan’s son, who he’d sworn to help train and guide, was growing up without him.

But he’d watched them fly off into the desert and his heart had sung. He was meant to do this. He couldn’t stop until it was done. He walked back down into the bar and saw Danna Finn balancing on a box to reach a shelf.

“Is there breakfast now?” He said. She looked at him.

“There’ll be bread in a few minutes,” she nodded. He smiled and walked over and settled in.

“Your father told you about dragons,” he said. She met his eyes, they were an almost golden shade of brown, and her fiery red hair framed her round face.

“My father told me many things,” she said. “He told me my family rode dragons for Queen Anessa. He said that if we tried to go back to Cammadan, Brayton would kill us and drink our blood. He said that when Queen Annalise rose we’d go back.” Prior looked at her.

“Seven years is a long time to delay,” he said. She shrugged. “Also as far as I know Brayton never drank blood. I could ask Duchess Marina, seems like something she’d know.” Danna blinked at him. “Why didn’t you come back?”

“He died eight years ago,” she said softly. Prior inhaled.

“I see,” he nodded. “I won’t bother you about it again.” She nodded. “There were riders with Queen Anessa.”

“It was an age ago,” she said. “How could you know?” Her voice was playful now, challenging him. He could answer a challenge. Gods, she was stunning.

“I’ve read her brother’s journals,” he said. She cocked an eyebrow.

“In Dovetail?” She asked. “I thought Brayton purged the libraries of that sort of thing.”

“Not in Dovetail,” he said. He remembered the night he and his friend Nika Averran had found the library in Amina’s Temple, the moonlight streaming over the texts. The stories he’d never known, none of them had. The secrets of his kingdom, and home, the gifts the gods gave to their chosen, that put him in even more awe of his queen, her general and the Duchess who sat her right hand. The ones that had given him hope that things taken from him might be restored.

“Even so,” she said, “that doesn’t mean my family were riders.” He looked into her eyes. She was lying. He didn’t know if she was lying to him or herself.

“I think a lot more families had secrets around magic than we ever knew,” he said softly. “Thank you, for talking to me.” She nodded.

“Of course,” she said. “Anything for our queen.” Prior smiled. Words he’d said himself so many times, vows he’d taken, whispered in the dark while Annalise whimpered and moaned in his arms. Anything for you. Until she stopped taking and he wasn’t sure if he had anything left to give.

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The Rider

Danna

Cole rolled off of her and she exhaled running a hand through her hair. He hadn’t wanted to talk tonight, which was both a blessing and surprised her, since he’d nearly gotten into a pissing match with that ranger. If she couldn’t see that he was marking his territory with the stranger she would have argued with him to stay at Tanner’s.

But she didn’t want a fight.

“Swear to Cornan, that gets better every time,” Cole exhaled. She laughed and rolled over and rested her chin on his chest. “The boys wanted to go to Jade’s to celebrate tonight. I told them they could but I had better waiting at home.”

“What’re you celebrating?” She asked. He played with her hair.

“Found a cache of the glass,” he shrugged. She nodded. “Bad timing for a ranger to come through, but it is what it is.” She exhaled. The brightly colored and easily workable glass made from dragon fire was a closely guarded secret at the moment, and Cole was trying to be the merchant to bring it out. “You haven’t seen that beast around have you?”

“No,” she shook her head. “Not in years, you know that.” She’d have to talk to Seshi again. To try to convince him to leave. Maybe the presence of the Ranger would do it. Seshi was distrustful of anyone linked too closely to Queen Annalise, and Bel, his mate, humans in general. Cole nodded and kissed her temple. “The ranger was asking about them too. Maybe you should lay low for a bit.”

“He’ll move along, they always do,” he chuckled and stretched. “Why was he asking you?” Danna felt her heart speed up a little.

“Tanner mentioned my da’s stories,” she yawned, but her heart fluttered. The ranger, Commander Chastain, she reminded herself, had looked at her with the kind of interest she’d always gotten, which was flattering, but once he found out that she knew something about the dragons, his whole face and demeanor had changed. He’d wanted to hear what she had to say. That she wasn’t used to.

“Well, if he bothers you, let me know,” Cole pulled her close. “I don’t need some green coated city boy thinking he can take what’s mine.” She whimpered as she felt him get hard again.

“Cole, wait,” she muttered as he pushed his leg between her thighs to part them. He shushed her and pushed in and she whimpered.

“That’s a good girl,” he mumbled into her hair, “you can take it, honey, come on.” After two years, she should have been used to this, and she mostly was. He liked to hurt her, and it came without warning or even threat. So she waited for him to finish, feeling where the bruises would be in the morning and then waited for him to fall asleep before slipping out of bed, pulling her dress on and grabbing a shawl and riding out past the high dunes to her family’s old barn and stepping inside.

Settled in the hay was Seshi, Lord of Dragons, only slightly smaller than the barn itself, deep violet in color, with amber horns and yellow fiery eyes, that had just opened to look at her. He squeezed himself in here with some magic and was refusing to leave until Danna left with him.

“It is late Danna Finn,” he rumbled. She exhaled. “Did he harm you again? I will eat his heart.”

“No,” she said and shook her head. Seshi huffed, he knew she was lying. “He did find more glass, though, and there’s a new ranger here, looking for you or at least your kind.”

“Ah,” he said, “you have come to try to convince me to leave again. I see.” She nodded. “Danna, you are my rider, descended from the oldest of rider lines. I will not choose another or leave you behind.” She sat down and leaned against his leg. “Jersa is young, and she was probably playing, that’s what made the glass. I will speak to her again.”

“Alright,” Danna said. “What about the ranger? He said he’d seen dragons before.” Seshi let out a soft and thoughtful rumble.

“Perhaps he was there when Appan went to the capital,” he said, “or when The Dovetail Queen freed us.” She exhaled. “Why do you stay here, Danna Finn? Is it only because of your father’s grave? If we went to Cammadan we would be among your ancestors, surely he would want that.”

“Cammadan isn’t my home, Lord Seshi,” she said, “I was born here, lived here always, I don’t want to leave it.” He hummed again.

“This is the same defense you give that man of yours,” Seshi said. “One can be settled into a place that is harmful for them.”

“The longer you stay in the area the more dangerous it is,” she said softly. The dragon chuckled.

“And you claim to not be my rider,” he answered her. “Your concern betrays your heart, Danna.” She laughed, and he circled his wing around her, drawing her closer. “He did hurt you tonight.”

“Not badly,” she whispered, feeling the steady beat of the dragon’s heart, and the heat of his fire in his belly.

“Perhaps not your body,” Seshi said. “But I worry he will continue to rip at your heart and soul until it is gone.” She inhaled deeply and fell asleep. She dreamed of her father, asking why she wouldn’t look him in the eye.

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A New Start

Prior

Prior walked into the tavern with slight hesitation. He didn’t like that he was traveling alone, but he understood why. Coming into a place like this with even a pair of rangers would draw too much attention. At least on his own he appeared to be simply passing through, needing to rest his horse for a few days.

He’d been out for nearly two months now chasing a wing and this was the first time anything new had come up. He’d seen several nests as he came up on this village and then they’d stopped. Nika had mentioned this place had magic in it, though he hadn’t felt it.

It wasn’t as though Prior was particularly magically sensitive. But even he knew what strong magical places felt like, he’d been in Dovetail, the capital of Cammadan enough times to know that feeling and this place was humming with magic.

“What can I get for you?” The man behind the bar said. Prior looked at him and smiled with a shrug. He had long dark hair tied back, and tawny brown skin.

“Whatever’s brown,” he shrugged. He learned long ago not to trust clear liquors in places like this. The browns were usually safe. The man nodded and filled a glass. He glanced around the room.

“You’ve got business here, Outlander?” Another man said, his voice was even but not friendly. Prior held up his hands.

“Only passing through, Her Majesty likes to have her eyes where she can,” he said. The man grunted and stepped aside. Beside him, now visible was a girl, woman, really, in a threadbare white dress, with red hair brushing her shoulders. She was a really red head, too, not auburn like most of the women of Cammadan. Really, fiery red, pale skin, and green eyes. She looked incredibly beautiful, and then she smiled at him.

Oh no.

“You alright Danna?” The barman asked. She nodded. “Then I can say you’re late” She scoffed and rolled her eyes and walked around behind the bar.

“Really, Tanner, you seemed to be managing” she said. She looked at Prior again. “Who’s this then?”

“Nice to meet you,” he smiled and leaned across the bar. “Commander Prior Chastain,” he offerred his hand. She smiled and took it.

“Danna Finn,” she said. She glanced at his uniform. “You came from the Border?” He grinned.

“Dovetail,” he said. Her eyes widened. 

“Long way,” she said. He nodded.

“It is,” he said softly, “Can I buy your drink?” She smiled at him again, what a smile, it lit up her green eyes, this one was more wry, though. 

“Best not,” she said. He frowned. She was probably married, a girl that pretty out here, no chance she was free. “How long are you here for?”

“Not sure,” he said, “I was planning only a few nights, rest a bit before moving on,” she nodded. “But I could be persuaded to stay longer.” She bit her bottom lip.

“I bet you could,” she threw her hair back and laughed. The line of her throat was even entrancing. Prior could not fall in love right now, or even get himself infatuated. Certainly not with some girl in a backwater on the wrong side of tribal lands who was likely spoken for. 

Unfortunately for Prior his heart and his stomach never listened to reason. The place quieted down as the doors swung open and four men walked in. One was clearly the leader, he was white, with dark blonde hair, trimmed fashionably, a little too fashionably for being so far out, and he was wearing a clean brown coat over a blue silk vest. What the hell was a Dumanis apprentice doing out here?

“Danna,” the leader shouted, as they took a table. She looked at the man behind the bar who shrugged and she grabbed four bottles and walked over. He grabbed her by the waist and she pulled back, then he grabbed her wrist. Prior stood up.

“I wouldn’t get in the middle of that, if I were you,” Tanner shook his head. Prior frowned.

“He’s merchant?” Prior asked. Tanner shrugged. “What clan?”

“Dumanis, so he claims,” Tanner said. “Cole talks a big game, has plenty of money and is working a mine a few miles out. He’s been here about six years, maybe?” Prior nodded, he’d have to write to his friend Tristan Dugarry to verify, if someone was working a mine for the Dumanis, Tristan’s family, he’d know. “You really just passing through?” He asked. Prior sighed. The man was sharp, he’d give him that.

“What do you think?” He asked.

“I think the tribe chiefs have been getting sick of finding their young men dead,” he said, “and I think Harran’s got The Queen’s ear, which is bad news for men like Cole.” Prior grinned. “And I know that you lot have been chasing stories for two years.”

“Not stories,” Prior took a long sip, “dragons. I’ve seen them, from a distance, but they’re real.” Tanner shook his head. “And yes, Harran asked me to look into the killings. What tribe are you from?”

“My mother’s Wyan,” Tanner said, “my da is settler though.” Prior nodded, when he was a child, his homeland had been ruled over by dangerous wizard Tyrant, Brayton Dovetail, Brayton had then been overthrown by his cousin, and the rightful queen, Annalise. During Brayton’s reign many people had fled into the desert. Settlers and their children were hard people, they’d had to be. “How is the Chieftain?”

“Very well,” Prior smiled, “Lady Brea too, they’re both glowing in the light of their son.”

“Gods bless the Prince Rory,” Tanner smiled and they clinked drinks. “Do you need a room?”

“Do you have any?” Prior asked. He didn’t mind sleeping under the stars but it had been weeks since he’d had a bed.

“Can probably scrounge up a bath too,” Tanner winked. ” And you can ask Danna about dragons,” he said as she walked back over. She looked alarmed.

“Why would he ask me?” Danna said quickly. Prior raised an eyebrow. That was an odd response.

“Because your da yammered about the damn things every day for as long as either of us can remember?” Tanner said.

“Oh right,” she shook her head. “I have plenty of old stories, don’t know why they’d interest you Commander,” he smiled at her again.

“I’ll hear any story you want to tell,” he said. He glanced back at the merchant, who was glaring at him. “He’s yours then?” She straightened her shoulders.

“What’s it to you?” She crossed her arms. He smiled and held his hands up.

“I don’t want to step on any toes,” he said. She narrowed her eyes at him. “But any information would be appreciated, by our queen.”

“You’re so sure I’m Cammadie?” She tossed her hair. He smiled. “Maybe my allegiance isn’t to Queen Annalise.”

“If you’re Failon or Rastani, forgive me,” he teased back. “Consider it diplomacy,” she laughed. The merchant marched over then.

“Danna,” he said. “We’re going.” She looked at Tanner, who shrugged. “Tanner.” He nodded coolly.

“Cole,” Tanner’s voice was sharp like a knife. “It’s not busy, Danna, it’s fine.” She nodded. Cole looked at Prior who stood up and met his eyes.

“Just arrived?” Cole said. Prior nodded. “How are things back home?”

“All was well when I left,” Prior said, keeping his voice even, waiting for a challenge. Cole nodded.

“Come by,” Cole said, “Tanner knows the place. I’d never want Her Majesty to think those of us out here have forgotten our manners. The Clans remain her loyal subjects.” Prior nodded. “Danna, now.”

“What’s your rush?” She teased as she walked over to him. “Nice speaking to you Commander.” Cole pulled her close and kissed her. Then they walked out. Prior watched them with a bit of a pang.

“She’s his?” Prior asked. Tanner exhaled.

“Unfortunately,” Tanner mumbled. “She deserves better, but it’s not as though better’s to be had in these parts.” Prior didn’t notice jealousy in his tone. “I’m assuming you have a horse?”

“Yes,” Prior said. “If I need to stable him elsewhere,” he drifted, Tanner waved a hand.

“Take him around back, I’ll get the room set,” he said. Prior smiled and nodded. Twenty minutes later he was leaned back in a warm tub with his eyes closed. Nika had been right. Something was happening in this little village, and he was going to figure out what it was.

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Interlude: Elsewhere, Magic Awakens

The Wolf King

King Raniere of Rastan dismounted his horse and slung his bow over one shoulder, and checked his knife on his hip. He hadn’t hunted in a year and it felt good to be back to it. The stag was near, he could feel it, in his bones, the way he always could, the way his brothers always could.

He’d gone out alone this time though, he needed time to think. Kristoff had asked to go to Phania, again, but he still had no word from Daniel on an invitation. He hated keeping his brother from the woman he loved, but Kristoff’s stormy mood wasn’t worth snapping the fragile string of their alliance with Phania. Rila was nagging him about Gregor, who’d gotten into another brawl in the school room, while Richard and Mikhail had sent a tenth governess in fourteen months packing. His sister mothering their youngest brothers was soothing her, for the moment, but he could feel her about to shatter, she’d soon tire of it, and he knew it. A restless Rila was bad for all of them. Nikolai had disappeared into an affair with a trader from Failon and they hadn’t seen him in a month. He was tired, and his family was wearing on his last nerve.

And none of that addressed what the hell he was going to do about Annalise, and the way her marriage to Eric would place her in a greater position of power he was fully comfortable with, especially without a strong alliance.

He glanced up at the moon and took a deep breath, and saw the stag standing before him, too far to shoot, he ran rather than go back to the horse, his feet padding against the snow and his body moving swiftly, he smelled it, heard it’s heart, his body lengthened, his hands fell in front of him and he ran, feet and hands gone, they were paws now, his senses heightened, and he leapt as he caught his prey by the throat.

The Handmaiden

Talia Warwick sat on the back deck of the villa on the beach, a parting present from Prince Eric, much better than the gowns or jewelry her other “suitors” presented her with. His way, she’d realized, of letting her know that what was between them had mattered to him as much as his forthcoming marriage did.

She gasped as rising out of the seafoam in front of her were two women. No, not women, though they were female, naked, their skin shimmering between green and blue, with large silver wings that matched the color of the foam, they regarded her, one nodding solemnly, and the other raising her hand in greeting.

“Hail sister,” she said, her voice sounding like an echo.

“Hail,” Talia said, terrified, and in disbelief that her voice worked at all.

“We go to serve and save our queen, now,” the other said with a wild smile, “you will do the same?” Talia nodded.

“Until my last breath,” she said. They nodded, and flew off.

Talia knew that didn’t mean Elana. She’d never sworn herself to Elana.

Talia had been born to see Karina crowned and to serve her.

The Serpent & The Princess

Jaden Larsen stood in the crow’s nest scanning the horizon. He glanced down at the deck and saw Princess Karina arguing with the Admiral again.

“We will go where I say,” Karina said. “I want to go to Dovetail.”

“I don’t take my orders from you,” Franz growled and Jaden climbed down to meet them. “Your father is indulging you even allowing you on this ship.” The Princess glared at the Admiral.

“I haven’t heard from Lady Katrin since she arrived in Brightcoast,” Karina hissed. “I want to know why.”

“You haven’t?” Jaden said. She looked at him. He hadn’t heard from Kat either, but Karina not hearing from her was more troubling. She shook her head.

“Princess, I cannot invade Cammadan on your whim,” Franz said. “Lieutenant, explain to her.” Jaden nodded and he marched away.

“Something is wrong,” Karina said. Jaden nodded. “Something has shifted, I can feel it, and I need to see Kat, I need to.” He took her hand. “Kristoff is in pain, I can feel that too. It’s too much, and it hurts.” Karina had always seen and understood things that she maybe shouldn’t. He and Kat had talked about it, if something had shifted she was feeling even more and from at a distance, he didn’t know how to help.

“It’ll be alright,” he said gently, “I promise, Kari, I do,” she nodded and they heard a shout from the edge of the deck.

“Living gods!” The sailor said, they ran to the edge and saw it. A gigantic golden serpent had risen out of the waves.

“Goddess,” Karina mumbled. Jaden looked at her. “They did it.”

“Who?” He asked. “And what?”

“Annalise and Marina,” Karina whispered, “they freed the gods, magic is back.”

“Magic never went anywhere,” he frowned. Karina smirked at him.

“Old Magic did, my family’s,” she exhaled. Jaden shuddered. The thought of that chilled him, though it seemed to comfort the Princess.

The Shadow Queen

Delia Bettencourt sat quietly in the dark room, the shadows she’d commanded all her life, dancing around her. They were playful today, excited and a little wild.

“Delia,” the door opened, Lord Andrew Bryant, the man who’d raised her walked in. His dark hair was combed and he was dressed in finery. “What is this?”

“They’re unruly,” she sighed. His blue eyes met her grey and she pulled the shadows in. “What is it?”

“They would like to speak with you Princess,” he smirked. She nodded and followed him outside the room. “Has something happened?”

“I haven’t seen anything since that evening I was pulling to Annalise,” Delia shook her head. “Why?” They entered the parlor and Wyatt and Morgan Allred were sitting. Of course.

“Princess,” Count Allred smiled at her.

“Count,” she said coolly. “To what do I owe the pleasure?”

“We’ve been told that Annalise is in Westran,” The Count said. “And she is bringing the Phanian prince with her.”

“And this means?” Delia raised an eyebrow. Gods, Allred was tedious.

“Delia,” Andrew said gently, “It means your time is coming.” Her shadows danced on her finger tips.

“My time?” She said. “I thought you wished to crown the other one,” Allred cleared his throat as she made her shadow dance around him. “What made you change your mind?” The count swallowed, and Lady Morgan’s eyes were wide. “My darling niece seems to have accomplished her goal. Perhaps you should adjust your plans.” She circled the black shadow around his neck.

“N-no, Princess,” Allred stuttered, “I am your servant.” She smirked and pulled the shadow in.

“Good,” she rose. “Get me my crown, then.”

The Dragon Rider

The girl in the shabby brown dress, her red hair tied on top of her head in a messy knot, heaved the bucket into the water into a trough when she heard the wings beating above her, a sound like thunder and rain, but steady in a way they didn’t get out here.

“Living gods,” she whispered as the four creatures, scaly like the lizards that sunned themselves on the rocks in the desert, but large bat like wings and four legs, and long tales and claws flew by. Three flew off into the sun but one, a deep purple like a quartz, and horns the color of amber, with glowing yellow eyes to match landed before her.

“Hello Danna Finn,” it’s voice boomed loud and deep. “I have slept for centuries and was glad to wake and know you were here.” She blinked.

“You know me?” She asked. The beast bowed it’s head.

“I have waited for you since I was hatched,” it said, “and dreamt of you while I slept,” she exhaled, “and known you since you took your first breath.”

“I don’t understand,” she shook her head. Her Da had told her stories of such creatures, and the brave folk who rode them, but those people were heroes, magicians and kings. She was most certainly not any of that. “I’m no one.” It snorted, as if amused.

“You are Danna Finn,” it said simply, “and you are mine. I am Seshi, Lord of Dragons, and I have claimed you, at last.” She looked at the dragon and reached out and stroked his nose. “We will speak again soon.” He purred and then took off into the sky.

“Danna,” the angry male voice called from inside. “What’s taking so damn long?” She exhaled. She’d spent too long in the sun, she was hallucinating. That had to be it.

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Interlude: Lefty

Damian Lestoff exhaled and gripped Nikolai’s hair as the Prince of Rastan took him into his mouth. They were leaving in the morning and Lefty had dodged Nicky’s sister to make this rendezvous occur.

He’d enjoyed Rila during this visit and he knew the royals saw him as little more than a shared toy, but he’d play back.

“Gods, Nicky, that’s good,” he mumbled before letting out a groan, pulling away and finishing with a grunt. He fell back against the bed.

“Couldn’t let you leave without having some fun,” Nicky laughed sliding up and kissing him.

“I’ve had plenty of fun,” Lefty smirked. “Your sister is very accommodating.” Nicky huffed.

“Please don’t talk about my sister while I’m holding my cock,” he said, “you could stay.”

“Eric has orders,” Lefty shrugged. “He’s supposed to marry Annalise.”

“Mm,” Nicky kissed him and pulled close, “then he and Raniere will both be kings and can sit around all their lives comparing their crowns.” Lefty laughed and kissed him and wrapped a hand around his cock and began stroking. “Unh,” Nikolai exhaled.

“What’s your stable boy going to say about tonight? Hm?” Lefty teased.

“Ash isn’t,” Nikolai grunted, “a servant. He’s the best damn breeder and racer in Rastan.”

“As you say, Your Highness,” Lefty laughed and kissed him. “But you didn’t want him tonight? He could have joined us.”

“I don’t want to share you,” Nikolai growled. That was bullshit. Lefty had felt it while his lover tossed him to his sister. Nikolai got off on the idea that Lefty was desired by others in his orbit but would always come back to him. “I want to be in you, Damian.”

It had been a mistake to invite Nicky to call him by his first name. It was too intimate, it made him melt. He rolled over, rose up on his knees and Nikolai came behind him and kissed his neck.

They’d arrived in Cammadan, in Dovetail. Navigating the river into the dug out lakeside port had at least been a challenge but Lefty already felt like the city was cutting off his air. He needed to see the south sea, breathe it in, and bathe in it.

“Dress uniform,” Eric said walking into his cabin. Lefty raised an eyebrow at him.

“For you and Raymond, certainly,” he shrugged. “I’ll stay here.”

“Lefty,” Eric met his eyes. “Please, I need you for this. I have no idea what I’m doing.” Lefty smirked.

“Are you asking for help, wooing, little brother?” He sat up.

“No,” Eric said flatly. “I’m asking you to put on the damn uniform and stand next to me.”

“The secret,” Lefty grinned, “is to listen. Pay attention, make her feel as if she’s the only woman in the world. That you would die for her.”

“Annalise is a queen not a tavern wench,” Eric said with a sigh, “and she needs a husband not an orgasm.”

“Dunno,” Lefty said with a shrug, “thinking how frustrated Elana gets and how frosty your other brother is, she might need both.” Eric stared at him placidly.

“Are you done?” Eric raised an eyebrow. Lefty shrugged and stood up. “Don’t disrespect Elana that way, first of all, and second of all, if you really plan to seduce the Dugarry girl, you’d at least better try to look your best.” Lefty laughed and Eric turned to leave.

“Eric,” he said and his brother stopped. “It’s going to be fine.” Eric smiled softly, and nodded.

Lefty dressed and came above board quickly. He looked to the dock and saw her a froze. A daughter of Tumona, undeniably, her dark curly hair pulled off her face in a knot, dressed in a simple blue gown, standing beside a handsome white man with red hair who’d made her laugh.

That must be her. Eric’s queen. And Lefty wanted her, more damned him.

He’d never been happier to be wrong. Not that it changed much. No matter how much he wanted Duchess Marina SanPierre he couldn’t have her. But at least he wouldn’t have to watch her with his brother, wed him, bear his children.

At the ball that night he watched her, twinkling and flirting, her white gold gown revealing her neck and shoulders. Goddess, he wanted to kiss that neck, strip the gown off her and run his hands over her body and make her coo and sigh, melt into him and beg.

Two guards watched her every move, Dugarry, with some kind of leery protectiveness, and another, dark haired and soft looking with a sort of pained longing. She’d argued with him earlier, on the balcony and it had been subtle but he’d noticed.

He’d managed some conversation, perhaps even to flirt, but when her bright brown eyes fixed on him, in a sort of confusion he felt himself shrink. Her confusion was kinder than disgust, but she surely knew who he was and considered him well beneath her notice. Even if she weren’t the single most beautiful woman he’d ever lain eyes on, she was a duchess. He was the spawn of a ferryman and a whore.

After the ball he made his way back to the apartment where they’d put him, Eric and Raymond. Raymond was sitting on the balcony his feet kicked up.

“So,” Lefty leaned against the door, “what do we think?” Raymond looked at him sardonically, resembling his sister more than made Lefty comfortable.

“The queen is hiding something,” Raymond said. Lefty nodded, he’d gotten that sense too. Annalise had been friendly, but was clearly keeping Eric at arm’s length. Raymond eyed him. “The Duchess was involved with one of the guards but it apparently has ended.”

“Tristan Dugarry?” Lefty tried. Raymond shook his head.

“The name being gossiped about was Santino,” Raymond shrugged, “Dugarry is with the queen, apparently.” That was a complication.

“Do you think that’s the secret?” Lefty said. “She has a lover?” Raymond shrugged again. “Eric won’t like that.”

“No,” Raymond agreed, “he won’t.” He looked down. “What else do you want to know about her?” Lefty grinned at his friend.

“What else were you able to find out?” He asked. He wanted to know everything about her.

He’d made her laugh, when he’d asked to kiss her, she hadn’t said no, he watched her, something was happening with Dugarry, but he wasn’t sure what, and now, she was asking to dance with him, and flirting and gods, he wanted her so badly.

“Were I to compare the light I’ve seen in your eyes to the stars,” he whispered seductively, “the stars would be found woefully in adequate,” Marina swallowed and met his eyes. He wasn’t exaggerating, she was so bright, so stunning, he lips curved up into a smile, and she burst into a laugh. He blushed.

“And this works with most girls?” She said incredulously. He smirked.

“Yes,” he admitted, “but as I said, I’ve never been with a politician.” She paused then and leaned close. Too close, so close. Rana save him, let him have this, even if it was only this, as she kissed him. “Well then, perhaps I should stick to the stars,” he managed to mutter when they parted. She giggled again and kissed him again. He gathered her into his arms. It was enough, this moment, it would be enough, he swore.

She could never be his. He knew this. But he could have this moment with her, innocent, perfect.

She’d been standing on the dock like one of the Glora and he’d brought her on board, below decks, to his cabin.

“Have you had a lot of girls here?” She asked. Her voice light and teasing. But something was wrong, her eyes were heavy, the light sharp.

“Here,” he said, “you’d be the first.” She smiled and settled on the bed. “You seem preoccupied.”

“Distract me then,” Marina said. A challenge. He crawled on top of her and kissed her deeply.

“I’m in deeper trouble with you than I’ve ever been in my life,” he admitted.

“I’ve known this kind of trouble before,” she whispered back. “It’s the other thing for me.” They kissed again hard. “Be patient with me?”

“Forever,” he cooed. She nodded and they kissed more, hard, fevered, “Marina,” he said as he slid his hands over her thighs. The heat between them rose, unbearable, but also impossible to resist.

“Love me, please,” she whimpered. They kept kissing. “Love me, touch me, I need you.” It was too much.

“I do love you,” he whispered, “forever, I need you, love you.” It was a vow, he realized. There was no one and nothing else, just Marina.

“How tedious,” Brayton Dovetail smirked pushing him aside. Damian felt himself choking as the shadow consumed him. A laugh, distant, female, soft, and then sharp, like a needle.

“Who do you think you are Damian Lestoff?” The Dark Lady appeared before him. “To stand in the way of those that I ordained be together.” He gasped.

“I love her,” he whispered. “She chose,” Amina laughed.

“You can do nothing for her,” she said, “even now, she dreams of leaving you for another of mine.” He swallowed. “You cannot protect her from her destiny.” He fell back and light bloomed in front of him.

“Don’t let go of my hand, Dami,” his mother’s voice said. “Don’t you dare.”

He jolted awake and Marina was sitting beside him and wiped his forehead.

“Hello my love,” he whispered. She smiled softly. Already she dreams of another one of mine, he wanted to hold her close, to shelter her. But he couldn’t, he wouldn’t hold her back, even if it destroyed him.

Marina was lounging, naked in the apartment in Rastan. He looked at her as he rose to get dressed. His relief these past few weeks at being near her again was starting to subside and he was starting to notice her. How she’d changed and how she hadn’t. She’d grown more beautiful, her body softening into irresistible curves and the light in her eyes playful and sharp. Her shyness was almost completely gone, though he watched her deploy it strategically with Rastani courtiers, and even with the royal family. When he’d first fallen in love with her he’d seen that side of her, political, intelligent, cunning. And yet it was still tempered by her unending kindness, that light of compassion that lit everything she did.

“You don’t have to go yet,” Marina whispered. He looked at her and smiled.

“You have to get ready,” he said sadly. “Raniere is waiting.” She sighed and played with the cover.

“You’re upset about it,” she said. “That I like him.” He sighed and sat with her.

“I never expected you to not like him,” he said, “I don’t like this. You’re not safe. I hate that Brayton is always watching you, that you ever have to see him, and I hate how he looks at you.” Her smiled curled, cat like, a little devious.

“And how does he look at me?” She asked.

“Like he wants you,” Lefty sighed. “Which he does.” She shrugged. “That doesn’t bother you.”

“Most men want me,” she said, “I’m used to it.” It wasn’t arrogance, he realized or even confidence, just fact. “They look at me, and they want my body, my beauty, my magic, my position,” he sat down and pushed her hair off her face. “Even you, my love.”

“Of course I want you,” he said, “I’ve wanted almost nothing else since I saw you for the first time.” She smiled. “It isn’t the same, I love you.”

“What if I told you I’d never lift a finger to help Pharras?” She said softly, “or my power threatened Kat? Or I’d been a good little girl and married Kieran Franz to ease the way for Annalise and Eric?” He drew back. “You wouldn’t love me then, but I bet you’d still want me.”

“I’d still love you,” he whispered. “That’s never changing, Rina, you could never do anything to make me stop loving you.” She kissed him again and pulled him close. “Marina,” he groaned. “Raniere will be waiting, Brayton,” she kissed him deeply.

“Let him wait,” she mumbled, “let Brayton tear his hair out trying to figure out where I am. I’m with you, this is us, nothing can touch us.”

He stared dumbfounded at the spot in the ice garden. Gone, simply gone, as if they hadn’t been here at all. He’d been so close, he should have struck, should have killed them, should have saved her.

She’ll never be safe with you, a voice in his mind, the one that had haunted for years, who are you to protect her? If you’d let her be she’d have been safe, her queen, her witch, they would have protected her.

“Lefty,” Eric was calling through his stupor, “Lefty,” he turned to his brother, “come on, we have to make decisions.” He stared straight at him.

“You do whatever you must,” he marched past him to his room and began packing. Carolina tried to calm him down, it didn’t work, but he heaved his sack onto his shoulders. He would prepare the ship, let the rest of them dither. Nika and Annalise would know what to do, he had to keep her safe, it was all he could do.

“Where is she?” Raniere’s voice was sharp, as he blocked him in the hallway. Lefty sneered at the king. “She did not simply disappear.”

“She did actually,” Lefty bit back. “With your advisor, in fact.” He laughed darkly. “Are you so blind, Your Majesty?” Raniere blinked at him.

“She wouldn’t,” he said, “he wouldn’t. I trust Braga with my life, and Marina.” Lefty barked out a laugh.

“You’re a bigger fool than I thought,” he muttered, “Brayton Dovetail has been spilling poison in your ear, and now he’s taken her.” Raniere stared at him.

“I have tolerated your presence in my home, and the disruption of it,” Raniere said, “because of my brother and sister’s fondness for you, but I will not tolerate,” Lefty stepped closer.

“Tolerate it or not, Your majesty,” he hissed, “I am going to find the woman I love and bring her home.”

“The woman you love,” Raniere said. Lefty glared at him.

“You’re blind, Raniere, and I will not waste a minute I could be helping her forcing you to see,” he shouted. “He tricked you, and lured her here with an offer she could not refuse for the sake of her home.” Raniere glared at him. The fight continued, but he wasn’t speaking rationally, he needed to get to her.

He sat by her bedside as she thrashed and screamed. He wanted to touch her, hold her comfort her.

“If she comes back from this,” Nika said gently appearing in the door, “it will be because you’re here.” He looked at her.

“I tried a million times these past four years to hate you,” he whispered. She smiled. “But from her letters she seemed so happy.” She exhaled.

“She wasn’t,” Nika whispered. “She ached for you every minute. She tried to hide it, I tried to ignore it.” She looked at her. “She loved me as much as she could, but her heart ceased being her own a long time ago.” He exhaled. “She won’t ever give Tristan up.”

“I know,” he whispered.

“I couldn’t accept it,” Nika said, “you were different, but him.” She looked down. “I don’t know, it seems silly right now.” He inhaled. “What will you do about the child?” He pressed his hands together and leaned his face into them.

“When my mother died,” he whispered, “and my father married Aimee, I became hers, because she loved my father and so she loved me.” Nika nodded. “I love Marina, the child will be hers, so I will love the child.” It was that simple.

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Interlude: The Ice Maiden

Rila

“I won’t,” Rila stamped her foot, her father’s cool blue eyes stared back at her. She was sixteen, and felt like a child. 

“I am your father and king,” he said simply, “you will do as you are bid, daughter. Alcott has done me a great service and I will reward him.” Her nostrils flared. Her father had sold her, and everyone knew it. A loveless marriage was expected, she was Princess and marriage for alliance was normal but Lord Alcott was twice her age and notorious for his rapacious appetite for drink and women. 

“Father, maybe it can wait?”  Raniere, her oldest brother spoke up, Rila stared at him. “Rila is still so young. And Alcott has,” he swallowed, “specific tastes.” Rila looked at him. 

“This is not a conversation,” he said and stormed out. She sat on the couch and inhaled deeply. She wouldn’t cry. She simply wouldn’t. 

“I’ll fix this Rila,” Raniere said. She looked at him. 

“How?” She asked. “He’s made up his mind.” Raniere sighed. “Mama would have been able to talk him out of it, maybe. But it’s done.” 

“Rila,” Nikolai, her other brother said gently. She stared at both boys, her eyes burning with hatred. Nikolai cycled through his lovers with little thought. Raniere was going to have his choice of bride as a future king, and that didn’t stop him from more discrete liaisons with women at court.

It wasn’t fair and their pity was infuriating. 

“I’ll say just that,” Raniere assured her, “that Mama would never want to see you married to someone who would take you away. He knows Alcott rarely comes to court, stays up North with his hunting and his,” she bit her lip, “well, that’s not the point.”

“His women?” She said. “That’s what you were going to say. How is that different from any of you?”

“Well, I don’t have any women, to start with,” Nicky smirked.

“You and your boys then,” she scoffed.

“You aren’t helping, Nicky,” Raniere said. “I know it isn’t fair Rila, but I want to help.” She frowned at him.

“If what just happened is a display of your help, Raniere, you can keep it,” she said and stormed out of the room.

Rila lay in bed on her wedding night. Her husband had already come and gone, had his pleasure, and stumbled out into the night. For the first time in this whole ordeal she let herself cry. This was her life now, she realized, stuck in this stupid cold house, with a man who didn’t really want her at all, away from anything fun, or lively or interesting. 

In the morning she dressed and went to do what wealthy wives did, which was as far as she knew, write letters to people actually doing anything.

Rila,

Nicky says you’ll be lonely and so I wrote this note for you.

I miss you already and I want to see you soon

Mikail

She laughed, thinking of her sweet little brother, she flipped the note over and saw another one from Nikolai.

There’s one for every day of the year from one of us. Come back whenever you can, love.

-N

She smiled. 

1 year Later

Being back at court hadn’t settled her like she thought it would, though it improved things a little bit. She was worried, watching her youngest brothers, they seemed somewhat wild.

“Come on,” Nicky said one afternoon as she sat in her room reading. 

“Where?” She said. 

“Prince Eric arrived today,” he grinned. She looked at him. 

“Eric and his friends aren’t interested in me, they never were,” she went back to her reading. “Is that bear Kristoff wants to send to Princess Karina old enough?”

“You’re not fun anymore,” Nicky exhaled. She arched an eyebrow at him. “And yes, he’s very excited about the damn bear,” he plopped down next to her. “I don’t know what I’m going to do with Ash now that they’re here.”

“I thought you were in love,” she laughed and he flopped against her lap.

“Well,” he said, “I am, but now Lefty’s back, and I know you’ve decided that sex is worthless, and given your marriage I fully understand why,” he exhaled, “but let me tell you something, darling sister, it can be spectacular.” She looked at him.

“How do you know he’ll want you, hm?” She teased.

“He always has before,” he said, “Come on, come say hello. They might even cheer you up. And now that you’re married and no longer a threat, Eric might finally be interested.” She rolled her eyes. 

“Fine, I’ll come,” she said and stood up. Since she’d decided to come back to court, Nicky had been pushing her to start taking lovers. She didn’t want to. She couldn’t imagine the distasteful act her husband performed on her every few months was at all worth the risk to her reputation and body. 

She was so very wrong, she gasped as Damian Lestoff kissed her neck and moved his hands under her skirts and up her thighs.

“Nicky’s going to be devastated,” she teased, pulling away. Lefty smirked at her. 

“I think he’ll survive,” he said, “where have you been, might I ask?” She kissed him again.

“What do you mean?” She asked. He shrugged. “You were too busy being dazzled by my brother to notice me, that doesn’t mean I was hiding.” He grinned and pushed her back into the bedroom and onto her bed, “Besides, I was a bashful maiden.”

“True,” he said, “I’ve never much cared for deflowering, messy business,” she giggled. “And now, you’re an experienced married lady,” he whispered, “and I am absolutely enchanted, Princess.” She blushed looking up at him, his amber eyes full of lust and adoration. No one had every looked at her like that before.

“Lefty,” she mumbled and he made love to her. After she giggled and stretched. 

“What do you have to drink?” He said, scratching his head and standing up. She looked at him.

“There’s some wine,” she said, “and tea, I think, though it’s cold now.”

“Hm,” he nodded, “no armis then?” She gaped at him.

“I’m not a dock worker, so no,” she said. He smirked and kissed her.

“My mistake,” he teased. She giggled. “You’re really lovely, Rila,” he whispered. She exhaled. “What’s your husband like, why haven’t I met him?” 

“Lord Alcott doesn’t care for court,” she said with a cynical shrug she didn’t quite feel to her bones. “Or me.”

“Impossible,” Lefty whispered and kissed her neck. 

“He married me to be a trophy against my father,” she sighed, “he won’t even give me children.” He kissed her. “Aside from the fact that he’s old and drunk and fat and thoroughly beneath me.”

“We are all thoroughly beneath you,” he teased, pulling her in a straddle onto his lap. “I cannot, in fact, think of a more appealing position.” She laughed and then gasped as she began to ride him. Maybe Nicky had been right, sex was worth it. 

Lefty wasn’t her last lover, it became something of a habit, indulging the same way that her brothers did. She occasionally received letters about her “humiliating behavior” from Alcott, but he never came, so she never worried. 

But her father’s health was declining and the whispers were impossible to ignore. And eventually he’d stopped seeing her, which was a dagger through her heart.

2 years later

“Rila,” Raniere stopped her one day as she passed her father’s rooms. She looked at him. “I wanted to speak to you.” She swallowed. “When he dies,” she shook her head.

“We don’t need to do this,” she said. He looked at her.

“When he dies, which seems imminent,” he whispered, “I’m annulling your marriage.” She blinked at him.

“What?” She whispered. He shrugged. “Why?”

“Because I couldn’t stop it,” he said, “but I can fix it.” She nodded and started crying. “Sweet one,” he said pulling her close. “I know how hard it’s been on you.” She nodded. “Do you want to see him?”

“Is he up to it?” She asked. Raniere nodded and she walked into the bedroom. “Hello Papa.”

“Hello little Rila,” he said. She glanced at the man standing in the corner. “Master Braga, have you met my daughter yet?”

“I haven’t yet had the honor,” he smiled. His voice was soft and gentle, somehow warm and invigorating, like a summer breeze. “Your Highness.”

“Master Braga is a healer,” Raniere explained. Rila nodded. “As you can see he’s working miracles for us.”

“I’m glad of it,” Rila said. Her father cupped her cheek. “We’ve all been so worried, Papa.”

“I know this,” he said softly. “Your brother tells me hourly.” She laughed. “You came home for the little ones?”

“Yes,” she nodded, “though they’ll fight like beasts if you call them little.” He smiled. 

“Your Majesty, you should rest more,” Braga said. Rila smiled and nodded walking out and wiping her eyes. 

That night at dinner Rila was dignified and quiet, not sure why her mind felt oddly clouded and dark, despite the respite of having seen her father hale and happy, if bedridden earlier. Her eyes and mind kept drifting to the Cammadie healer, seated beside Raniere, his dark hair clean and combed back, and his grey eyes fixed on her.

She stepped out into the ice garden holding a lantern and wandered, ending up in The Glen of The Maidens. Seven girls sculpted of ice positioned as if they were dancing.

“They are lovely, aren’t they?” She stopped seeing Braga beside her, as if he’d materialized out of thin air. “Rastan’s ice maidens.” She nodded, drawn in by his voice again

“I used to wish on them,” she said, “that’s what they taught us. You ask them for things,” he smiled gently.

“And what sorts of things did a princess have to wish for?” He said. She closed her eyes.

“I wanted to be like a storybook princess, not a real one,” she whispered. “Fall in love and live happily ever after.”

“And this has been denied you,” he said, “I quite understand.” She looked at him. “I was denied my hearts desire when I was young.” She swallowed and kissed him, not sure where the impulse came from, just knowing she must. “Are you sure, Princess?” She nodded.

A month later it was clear that whatever was between her and Braga was somewhat permanent. He had basically moved into her rooms and he was a particularly attentive lover. One night after she lay with her head against his chest.

“Braga,” she whispered.

“Yes Princess,” he whispered.

“Who were you, before you came to us?” She whispered. He laughed.

“No one of consequence,” he said, “my father was a drunk who beat my mother, and denied me the chance to become what I should have been.” She looked at him. “Despite that I learned what I could, and then I came here.” She nodded.

“You said once you were denied your heart’s desire,” she said. He stroked her hair. “What did you mean?”

“I loved a woman once,” he said, “she was beautiful, I would have given her the world,” he exhaled, “but she chose another, someone I should have been able to trust, but never did,” she looked at him.

“What happened to her?” She asked. He kissed her gently.

“She died,” he said, “him too.” She rested her chin against his chest.

“Raniere says when my father dies he’ll annul my marriage,” she whispered. Braga smiled at her.

“Why do you think I would want this information?” He teased. She giggled. “I am not worthy of you Princess.”

“That’s up to me,” she said, “I won’t let them sell me again.” He pushed her hair off her face. “Would you?”

“I’d be honored,” he whispered. She smiled and snuggled close.

She was standing outside of the throne room, holding back from crying. She wouldn’t cry. What Lefty was saying, it couldn’t be true. Raniere was sitting, crumpled on the dais and that merchant bitch was talking to him.

“You’re lying,” she hissed at Lefty. He sighed.

“Rila,” he whispered, Nikolai was staring at the floor.

“She did something to him,” she sharpened her voice, made it steel, “the same as she did Raniere, and you, some spell. She’s controlling him, I don’t know why, but that has to be it.” The pity on Lefty’s face was gone.

“You don’t know what you’re talking about, you spoiled little bitch,” he growled. “I know it killed you that all of a sudden I wasn’t on your leash any more but the rest of us grew up.”

“Lefty,” Nikolai cautioned.

“No,” Rila said, “let him talk. Do you know how desperate I was to take you on? The common son of a whore and my brother’s cast off?” Lefty snorted. “I let you in my bed when you’re not even fit to tie my boots and you threw it away. Braga loves me, we’re going to be married.”

“This is news,” Nicky said, “is that why Alcott’s here?” Rila glared at him. She was sure her husband was answering some summons. That Raniere was keeping his promise. She’d be free. She was going to marry Braga, she was going to have his children, his beautiful, grey eyed, magical children.

“I’m sure he told you so,” Tristan Dugarry said, his voice even. The Commander hadn’t talked much, she realized, in the months that he’d been here, and his cool placid face was betraying almost no emotion. “Brayton fooled a lot of people.” She blinked at him. “What reason would I have to lie to you, Princess? I’ve known the man every day of my life, I stared into his eyes the day his agents killed my parents, bowed to him when I knew I was abandoning Marina to his mercy when I was seventeen, and guarded him in his cell in Dovetail while Annalise held him prisoner.” She swallowed. “I saw plenty of other girls like you too, beautiful, vital and bewitched by him.” Her lip quivered. “So many would be Queens of Cammadan, left hollow when he grew bored.”

“He had a great love,” she said. The Commander nodded “He told me, but she died.”

“All his lies hold some truth,” he said. “She chose another?” Rila nodded. “He didn’t mention her name though, Marie, or the stabbing her in the gut part, I’m just guessing.” She exhaled and shook her head. “I’m sorry for you Princess, I am, this is going to be difficult for you, but then again, he is going to take Marina wherever they went and rape her until she’s pregnant with his child.” She closed her eyes. “He’s going to hollow out her soul and turn her into a shadow who will kill her friends and family, which at this point includes your brother, probably, and then the boy, it’s a boy by the way, she had a vision of that months ago,” he exhaled, “he’s going to open the gates of hell.”

“Enough, Tristan,” Lefty said. Dugarry shrugged. Like it was nothing to him. Like she was nothing.

“We’re going,” Carolina Dugarry walked in. Her husband rushed to her side and she kissed him softly. Rila swallowed and looked at Lefty who seemed unperturbed. But Lady Dugarry was his lover, it had been made clear. The other woman looked at Rila as if she sensed the confusion, “I am sorry if our deception caused trouble for you Princess.” Rila looked at her mouth agape. She’d seen nothing but a shallow merchant girl a few hours ago, maybe looking to get a bit above herself. The silly flirt who’d taken Lefty from her, but that wasn’t who was standing in front of her at all. This woman was serious and assured and impatient.

“Alex?” Tristan said. Caro sighed with a shrug. “We won’t have time to stop with my grandfather.”

“We don’t need to stop in Dorin,” Lefty shook his head, “The Glora can navigate through the river right to Dovetail.” Rila stared at him. “I made sure she was the right size when she was designed. I always knew I’d have to get her back there.”

“What about your crew?” Nicky asked.

“Anyone who wants to come can, the others can leave with Eric,” he shrugged. “I know you’re not much of a sailor, Dugarry but, she can handle with just two or three,” Tristan nodded. “Excuse me.” He left the room and Rila followed after him. “Rila, don’t.”

“Why didn’t you just tell me?” She asked. He looked at her. “That it was that you were in love with her?” He looked over his shoulder. “I thought that,” she exhaled. “I thought that you, that I,” pity crossed his face. “I didn’t know you knew him.”

“Four years ago in Brightcoast, he tried to turn me into a shadow,” he whispered. “Marina saved me. Tonight it was what he used, to get her to agree to go with him.” Rila looked down. “When I walked in here and saw him at Raniere’s side, saw him with you, I couldn’t,” she nodded. “And I’m faithful to Marina, now.”

“All those years,” she asked. He looked at her and nodded. Suddenly the last few months snapped into focus.

“And now the rest of my life,” he said. “You’re free now, Rila, don’t waste it.’

Rila stared at the Cammadie Guard Captain who was kneeling before Raniere, somewhat in shock. His dark hair had grown into his eyes he was looking soulfully up at her brother. But it was the kneeling that took her by surprise. The others had been so proud, almost arrogant.

“I gave Lady Dugarry my word,” Raniere said, “whatever any of you need.”

“We are grateful, Your Majesty,” the Captain said softly. “Her Majesty most of all, that is, until Lady Marina is restored to herself.” Raniere nodded. Rila steeled her spine. Raniere was still not quite himself, Braga’s betrayal and his complete misreading of the situation with Marina had shaken him.

Brayton she scolded herself, not Braga. Braga had never existed, the quiet healer who’d soothed her father, and advised her brother and warmed her heart had been a fiction. After court broke she stopped him.

“Captain,” she said. He turned and looked at her. “I’m sorry, I didn’t get your name.” He smiled.

“Prior Chastain, Princess,” he said softly, with a gallant bow. Rila smiled at him then. The dark hair and pale skin and the manners were so different from the other members of Annalise’s court that she’d met. But not from any other Cammadie she’d met, the twitch in her guts came again. “Is there something I can help you with?”

“He’s dead?” She said. He blinked at her. “Brag-Brayton?”

“Yes,” he said, there was something satisfied in his voice. Of course, he was one of them. He paused and looked at her again. “He’s dead.” She should be glad. He’d lied to her, used her, even aside from his more heinous crimes. “I’m sorry.” She blinked. “He clearly meant something to you, to all of you, different from what he meant to us.”

“Thank you,” she whispered. He nodded. “Is Lady Marina alright?” He swallowed.

“She will be,” he said firmly, as if he was talking himself into it. Rila regarded him. He was handsome, almost comically so, with his drawn nose and strong chin and clear blue eyes. “Was there anything else?”

“No,” she said, “did you know him, at all? Sir Tristan said things,” she drifted off.

“No,” he shook his head, “I didn’t come to Dovetail until Annalise,” he swallowed, “until The Queen returned.” Now it was his turn to look pained. Rila understood then, who this was. Rumors of Annalise’s engagement had reached them, no official announcement, and clearly, something had changed.

“Is Captain Lestoff alright?” Her heart squeezed, “he must be very worried.” He nodded.

“He is,” he said softly. ”But better, now that she’s been found, that she’s safe. Were you close?” Rila blinked at him. “You and Lefty?”

“Once, yes,” she nodded. Was he another spy, like Carolina Dugarry? He seemed very straightforward but then again so had she. “You’ll tell him I’m sorry?” The Captain nodded. “Thank you,” she said.

Prior

He looked out over the icy harbor. His audience with Raniere had been fine, very civilized. He’d been warned, by Eric of all people, about how formal everything would be. The kneeling had been Raymond’s idea, seconded by Evan. But his encounter with Princess Rila had thrown him. She’d looked so haunted. Beautiful, those cheekbones, and that porcelain skin and white blonde hair, but drained of light.

Clearly, Brayton, or Braga, as she’d known him had been her lover. Poor thing. Gods, he missed home. He missed Annalise, he wanted her in his arms, leaning against him, talking about how insufferable these people were. Instead she was on the other side of the world, in Eric’s arms, talking about her future.

He poured himself a glass of the cold clear armis, which, considering the stuff was from here, made him less homesick. Aaron and Athena drank it like water. Evan had told him that he should see The Ice Garden. That might kill an hour. He pulled his cloak on and walked out and wandered.

The sculptures were remarkable, lifelike in so many ways, clearly shaped with a combination of magic and skill, preserved by that same magic. He reached one courtyard of a wolf, large and looming over a stag it had taken down.

“This was my father’s favorite,” the princess appeared by his side. “It’s supposed to represent our family, the great hunters.” Prior smiled at her. “But I think our instincts have dulled. And I never understood the wolf, even Kristoff who loves animals, always preferred bears.” She exhaled. “You all have crests don’t you? Carolina Dugarry wore that heinous copper pendant with the spear and bow constantly. And Raniere had something made for the Duchess.”

“The necklaces are a fashion at the moment, for betrothals, an old tradition that the Count and Countess of Pantona brought back,” he explained. The one in his pocket seemed to whirr to life, he didn’t know why he was still carrying it, “yes, we have crests. My family’s is a tower standing over a mountain.” She nodded. “He killed my father too,” she looked at him. “Brayton, he had him executed for standing up for Annalise’s parents.” She swallowed.

“I thought he loved me,” she whispered. “I thought we were going to get married, and I’d live happily ever after, it was so stupid.” He looked at her.

“I’m familiar with that brand of stupidity,” he mumbled. She tossed her long blonde hair.

“Before my father married me off to pay a debt,” she said, “he used to try to push Eric and I together.” She looked down. “He never even looked at me twice.” Prior found that hard to believe, as Eric was clearly not blind. It was likely more the bargain the two brothers had struck, if Rila had caught Lefty’s eye, the prince was honor bound to leave her be. And Eric knew another Princess didn’t matter, with Annalise waiting somewhere for him.

“My uncle wants an Allred king,” he said, “I took this mission because a part of me is still the little boy afraid of his belt.” She met his eyes.

“So you aren’t marrying her?” She asked.

“No,” he said. “Probably for the same reason Eric made himself ignore you fighting fate is exhausting.” She nodded. “Do you have a favorite?” She raised an eyebrow at him. “In the garden.”

“I used to,” she said. “Now it feels, defiled.” Something in him wanted to reach out, to find some way to comfort her. This broken, beautiful princess standing before him.

Rila

She closed her eyes as Prior spread her on her bed. He’d walked her back to her rooms and gone to excuse himself, perfectly polite, when she took his hand and pulled him close

“Are you sure?” He asked. She nodded. She wanted this, needed it maybe. Now his head was between her thighs and she whimpered softly as he pleasured her. He was taking his time, like he was savoring her, this ranger from the south with his soft sad eyes and kind voice. “More,” she exhaled. He looked up at her and slid up her body pressing into her with a kiss and a grunt. Tasting herself on him was something but again his care felt wrong.

She wanted to be consumed and obliterated. Shattered like ice against stone, and despite what she’d thought she’d seen in his eyes at the Ice Garden it was clear Prior Chastain was not the man for that job.

Prior

He’d left her room after, she’d asked him to, which was fair enough. They’d both found release, however tepid, but he wandered back to his own rooms and sat down.

This was a disaster. For so many reasons.

He knew what was wrong. Rila was beautiful, clearly intelligent, and thoughtful, but she wasn’t Annalise, when it came down to it. And he wanted Annalise. Before he’d been with her there had been others. A few at the start too, when he had no idea what his queen wanted of him. He’d never walked from them aching for her though, as he had just now.

He’d go home, then to Westran, it was the only way. He just needed time. There was nothing else for it.

Rila

She walked into an office the next day, Alcott was sitting going over a ledger. He glanced up at her.

“Wife,” he muttered.

“Raniere is making me heir,” she said.

“He is also letting you divorce me, so I don’t see how it affects me,” he said. She looked at him.

“I want children,” she said. He looked up at her. “I’ll come back, if you promise me children.” Alcott’s ambition might be enough to save this, but instead he regarded her again and then he laughed.

“If you think I still want you after the past few years, Rila, you are sorely mistaken,” his voice was cold and cruel. “You were of little use unspoiled and I’ve absolutely no use for an ungrateful slut as a wife.” She nodded. It was done then, the decision made. She walked back out and into the ice garden, sat down among the maidens, and finally cried.

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Interlude: Alex And Emily

Note: So, the main line being a little heavy these days (understatement?) I figured we could all use a little frothy romance for this month’s interlude. What better for that than the story of two spoiled rich kids who never wanted for anything except each other?

Emily

Emily DuKarras lay on her back on a stone bench in the back courtyard of her house, her dark blonde hair hanging off the side and brushing the grass, staring at the book that her sister had just finished and raved about. It was a history of Cammadan’s relations with the tribes of Westran and Emily was mostly finding it depressing.

“Oh, sorry,” she sat up at the voice, “I got turned around.” She smiled. Alex DuCray was standing in the doorway. “Hello Emily,” he said.

“Hello Alex,” she said, golden haired, tall and certainly better looking than every other man in Dorin, she shouldn’t have been surprised. “Caro is out.” He nodded. Alex had been courting her older sister for almost a month.

“I’m sorry to have missed her,” he said. “What are you reading?” She frowned and put it aside and he came to sit with her. “Cornan save us, you are allowed to tell Caro, no thank you, occasionally.” She laughed.

“You’re the one marrying her,” she stood up and looked over her shoulder. “Are you coming to my presentation?”

“I wouldn’t miss it,” he said. She smiled. “My father will be in Rastan, unfortunately, he sends his regrets.” He sighed dramatically.

“And you’ll dance with me?” She pouted. She had to get better at flirting and practicing on Alex was harmless. He smiled.

“If your sister will spare me,” he shrugged. She laughed.

“She will,” she said. “I’ll tell her you were by.” He bowed and left. She giggled and plucked a flower from a pot and smelled it.

Alex

“You’re late,” his Uncle Trey said from his desk, not looking up from a ledger. Alex plopped down on a couch across from it. “I don’t ask much of you Alex, gods know your mother would have my head if I pressed too hard, but I’d appreciate at least promptness.”

“I was visiting the Dukarrases,” Alex said, by way of an excuse, “I hope that’s acceptable.” Trey looked at him.

“You’re serious about that?” He said. Alex nodded. “About Carolina Dukarras?”

“I feel like I should be offended, Uncle Trey,” Alex said, “what’s wrong with Carolina?”

“Nothing, she’s a lovely girl,” Trey shrugged, “and intelligent and amusing, and she’ll make a wonderful wife I’m sure. She just seems a little,” Trey was clearly searching for the right word, “melancholy, for you.”

“Athena is melancholy sometimes,” Alex pointed out. Trey rolled his eyes.

“That was your mother’s scheme, not mine, I told her it was idiocy,” Trey said. “And now Athena’s going to be a countess, and everyone is thrilled and congratulating me.” Alex grinned at him.

“You had nothing to do with that,” Alex said. Trey laughed.

“No, I didn’t,” he sighed. “It is good for us though. What about the younger one?” Alex stared at him. “The younger DuKarras girl, Alex?”

“Emily?” He said. Trey nodded. “She’ll be out next week, why?”

“We’ve been considering options,” Trey explained. “For Tristan.” Alex frowned. The idea of his serious soldier cousin and giggling, pretty Emily DuKarras felt unbelievably wrong.

The image of Emily lying in that garden rose to his mind and he swallowed. She’d looked like some kind of nymph or fairy. It was wrong to think of her at all, she’d be his sister, he needed to sort her back there. But when she’d ask if he’d dance with her, the look of hope on her face. He knew Caro was fond of him, but she’d never looked at him like that.

“I don’t think it would be a good match,” Alex said. “I’ll think on it. I’m sure we can come up with someone.”

Emily

Emily stood in The Guild Hall, her hair pinned up, and beating her fan against her hand. Caro was smiling as Alex chatted with her, and she didn’t know why but she felt her heart catch.

“It ought to have been at our house,” her mother grumbled.

“But then we couldn’t have danced,” Emily frowned. “There’s nowhere for a ball at our house.”

“If Carolina had moved more quickly,” her father sighed. “Could have done it at the manor.” Emily sighed.

“Caro’s being cautious,” she defended her sister. “I don’t blame her, Alex isn’t always,” she exhaled. “He could always change his mind.” Her mother eyed her.

“Emily,” Alex walked smoothly over to them, “I believe I promised you a dance.” She took his hand and he walked her onto the floor and took her in his arms. She felt something shoot through her. The rest of the room was gone and when the song ended he stepped away and cleared his throat.

“Thank you,” she said. She felt the same as she had last midwinter when she and Caro had stolen a bottle of sparkling wine from their father’s cellar.

“My pleasure,” he said and walked away. Emily swallowed and quickly moved to a different partner, but it didn’t matter, all she could think about was Alex.

Alex

He was standing in the garden of the guild hall, lit with torches looking at the ships.

“Alex?” Carolina stepped next to him. He looked at her. Why didn’t he feel more for her? Caro was beautiful and interesting and they’d always been good friends. “This isn’t working, is it?” He exhaled.

“No,” he said, “I’m sorry.” She nodded and then smiled. “What?”

“Emily will be pleased,” she shrugged. “And that will appease my father.” He blinked at her. “Alex,” she said indulgently.

“You wouldn’t mind?” He said. She shrugged.

“You’d owe me,” she said. He laughed and she turned and walked back into the hall. He thought for a moment and his conversation with Trey from earlier. They’d be leaving for Dovetail soon. He’d speak to Emily before, of course. And he realized that while the idea of Emily and Tristan Dugarry was absurd, shy and thoughtful Carolina might suit his cousin perfectly.

Emily

“He’s going to what?” Emily said, dropping her tea cup.

“Emily,” her mother said annoyed. Caro was smirking.

“Alex is Caro’s suitor,” Emily said. “Why is he coming to see me?”

“He’s not my suitor anymore,” Caro said cheerfully. “He likes you.” Emily blushed.

“Carolina this is not amusing,” Angelo Dukarras glared at his older daughter.

“What difference does it make to you if Alex marries Emily or me?” Caro said sharply. Emily sighed. This devolving into a fight between her father and sister. Although most things did.

“Emily,” her mother said gently and touched her hand. “Is this what you want?” She looked at Caro who really did seem disinterested. But she must feel a little hurt. And she thought about what it would mean. Becoming Madame Ducray would be a huge responsibility to the guild and mean a great deal to her family. And it would mean she could have Alex, and his soft hands and easy smiles and that jolt of whatever it was when they danced.

“Yes,” she said softly, “yes, I think it is.”

Alex

“Alex,” Emily giggled as they tumbled through a set of doors into a small isolated parlor at Dumanis Manor, escaping his terribly dull welcome back party after his time in Dovetail. Entangled and kissing wildly they fell back against a couch.

Emily had snuck him into her bedroom before he left and while he’d worried her innocence would have made her shy, she was instead curious, eager and playful. Now he was excited to see what other surprises his little bride to be had.

“I missed you so,” he kissed her neck, “so much, my darling.” he slid her gown up around her waist. She’d skipped wearing underthings. “Oh, you little minx.”

“I didn’t want us to fuss much,” she teased. “I didn’t know how long we’d be able to slip away. Since Andrei left Mama’s become a jailer.” He laughed and unlaced himself and she stoked him before he sunk into her and she cooed happily.

“Emily,” he murmured. “Oh sweetheart.” She groaned happily arching up into him. It would be at least another year of this sort of thing, stolen moments, before they could marry. His mother and Angelo had opened negotiations, but Emily was young for a debutante, let alone a bride. But gods, he was in love with her.

“Alex,” she said softly as they finished and her kissed her again. “When is he coming?” He looked at her.

“Any day now,” he said. “You’ve been a little too excited about this.” She rolled her eyes at him.

“Yes, what I’m actually interested in isn’t you, just steeling my sister’s beaux,” she deadpanned. “I drove Andrei away with my obsessive promises about our future.” Alex grinned and laughed. “I’m worried about Caro, that’s all.” He kissed her. “Also, I want to see him. I’m curious.” He kissed her shoulder.

“I’m sick of Tristan,” he muttered, “I’m sick of thinking about him, talking about him, cajoling him to come here.” He pulled her close again. “You’re the only person I want to expend that much energy on.” She giggled.

Emily

“He’s taller than you,” she teased Alex, peaking through the window watching Sir Tristan talk with Carolina.

“Stop that,” Alex said. She looked at him and giggled. “This is good for us.”

“Good for you,” she said. “My father doesn’t approve,” Alex kissed her.

“Please,” Alex rolled his eyes, “marrying Tristan to a merchant girl is going to make my grandfather so happy, your father won’t ever have to fight for a deal again.” Emily laughed. “Plus your mama will be distracted.” She smiled and they kissed again and he slid his hand up her thigh. Then they heard a throat clear behind them.

“Emily,” her mother said and she blushed. “Master DuCray.”

“Madame DuKarras,” he said, “you’ll all join us for dinner tonight won’t you? It’s been so long since my cousin has been with us, my mother and aunt are overdoing it.”

“Of course,” her mother said, “Emily, inside.” Emily nodded and rushed in and waited in the small sitting room, the parlor still being occupied. “You’re being reckless.”

“Mama, it’s Alex,” she rolled her eyes. “We’re getting married.”

“He was marrying your sister this time last year,” she said. Emily swallowed. “And I would have thought our experience with Andrei would have taught you some caution.”

“Alex isn’t a coward,” Emily narrowed her eyes. “And he loves me.” Her mother sighed. “Shouldn’t you be making sure Caro isn’t insulting Sir Tristan?”

“Caro knows what she’s supposed to do,” her mother said, “she wasn’t the one who brought up Queen Annalise five minutes after meeting the man.” Emily looked down. “Darling, this is just a delicate moment, be more discreet.” Emily sighed and stood up and walked back to the parlor and noticed Carolina sitting blushing. She smiled and went to sit with her.

Alex

“What do you think of her?” Alex asked Tristan as they arrived back at the manor. His cousin glanced at him.

“She’s what you said,” Tristan shrugged. “She’s very beautiful, she’s clearly intelligent.” A servant walked over and handed Tristan a note. “Thank you,” he muttered and the girl left. “Damn,” he mumbled. “Varys wants to give me a tour. How did she know I was here already?”

“Gossip spreads quickly in Dorin,” Alex laughed. “You’ll get used to it. You can’t go today we have dinner.” Tristan looked at him.

“I’d rather get it over with,” he muttered. “Apologize when I’m late?” Tristan rushed out. Alex collapsed against the couch.

“How did it go?” His mother walked in after a while. Alex frowned.

“I’ve never been able to read the twins,” he shrugged. “Certainly not Tristan. Caro is equally opaque.” Brie DuCray nodded. “I’d like to move my own case along.”

“Angelo is being difficult,” Brie frowned. “You can’t really blame him. The idea that the girls are interchangeable isn’t particularly generous, especially because Emily is by most metrics the better bride.” Alex nodded. Brie wasn’t wrong.

He adored both DuKarras girls, Carolina as his friend and Emily as his lover, but Caro was taciturn, shy and thoughtful. She didn’t particularly care for the social whirl of their world. Emily was bubbly, friendly and quietly shrewd, an ideal merchant wife.

“I want it done, Mother,” he said simply, “yield wherever he pushes.” She looked at him.

“Alexander,” she said, “that isn’t,” he stood up.

“You ran away to marry Father,” he said, “Drea and Alexia did as they were told, that’s what you always told me?” Brianna Dumanis-Ducray nodded at her son. “So get this done too, I want to to be a good son, but I want Emily.”

Emily

She giggled as she twirled into her bedroom and flopped on the bed. She’d been drinking wine and dancing all night.

“You drank too much,” Carolina laughed and shook her head from the doorway.

“Tomorrow I’m marrying Alex,” Emily said dreamily. “It’s going to be so beautiful.”

“Not if you’re vomiting all day,” Carolina said an sat down with her to start undressing her.

“The queen is going to be there,” Emily sighed, “which was really quite nice of her.”

“I agree,” Caro said, “you should sleep, and I should go, Tristan is waiting.”

“Tristan can keep waiting,” Emily snuggled close, “you were my sister before you were his wife.” Caro laughed. “Do you like being married?”

“I don’t think your marriage will look much like mine,” Caro said. Emily noticed it wasn’t really an answer. “But yes, most of the time.”

“Good,” Emily said and snuggled close to Caro. “I miss you, but if you’re happy then it’s alright.”

“Thank you,” Caro said. “I miss you too.” She exhaled. “Athena’s going to have a baby.”

“That’s good,” Emily yawned. She gasped. “You should have a baby, and I’ll have one too, and then my baby can marry Athena’s baby.”

“That’s an extremely cogent plan,” Caro said and stood up. “Go to sleep, Emily.”

Alex

He stood in front of the guild hall, and he was reasonably sure that half of Cammadan was there and none of it mattered because Emily was walking towards him, beaming.

They exchanged vows and he refused to not be holding her for the rest of the day. She leaned back into him or sat on his lap or they danced. It was perfect. She was perfect. And she was his.

Forever.

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Interlude: The Desert Rose

Note: We need to talk about Brea. I love writing “mean girls,” I love digging into their hearts and hurts and insecurities. And Brea, well, like with everyone, it’s complicated. Also, this is a long one.

She sat at their table, which was a place of honor, she reminded herself, and tried not to pout. This feast was supposed to be celebrating that Chieftan Marcus’s oldest son, Harran was home from a long trip to Cammadan.

“You’d been looking forward to this” Brea’s sister Nika said, pinching her gently. “Why are you in such a bad mood?” Brea frowned.

“He won’t even look at me,” she said. Nika plucked one of the flowers out of a vase on the table and stuck it behind her sister’s ear. She picked up a cup and sipped on the beer that had been poured. The feasts at the border keep were always loud and a bit wild. She and Nika were allowed to come only under their mother’s watchful eyes. She sighed. “Did I do something wrong?”

“Of course not,” Nika said and rubbed her arm, but Brea shook her head. She was prettier than ever, she’d thought, after the summer, and she’d turned sixteen and started wearing her long black hair down her back rather than covering it in a veil like her mother and sister. But Harran had granted her a kiss on the hand and a pleasant but indifferent greeting. Not the reaction she was hoping for.

“I need some air,” she stood up and walked out to the courtyard and tried not to cry.

“Lady Brea?” Prince Rian walked out. She swallowed and looked at him and squared her shoulders and smiled sweetly. “Are you feeling well?” Rian resembled his older brother, but he was slighter, and a bit darker, he simply took up less room.

“It was hot,” she lied, “I needed to get air.” He smiled.

“My brother takes up a great deal of it,” he said. She looked at him. “Air, I mean.” She nodded. She didn’t want to lead Rian on, he was nice enough, and she knew their parents supported the match between them, but she wanted Harran, she loved Harran.

“I suppose so,” she said. “You must be happy he’s home.” Rian shrugged.

“My father is,” he said, “and it means I get to go to Rastan for the winter.” She nodded. “Brea,” he said, “you should know,” before he could finish, thank the gods, Harran walked out.

“Rian, there you are,” he said. “Lady Brea,” he bowed lightly.

“Your Highness,” she said, and dipped a curtsey, her eyes not leaving his. Look at me, she begged inwardly, wondering if her power could maybe pull him to her. “We’re glad to have you home.” He smiled gently at her.

“Thank you,” he said, “your family honors me with you presence.” She smiled.

“Did you enjoy your time in Cammadan?” She asked. He smiled.

“I did,” he said. “I was sorry to leave,” she nodded. “The Count of Pantona and his family were very good to me.”

“His family?” She asked. “I thought he only had a son.”

“There’s a girl too,” Harran said cheerfully, “his natural daughter some people think, or just a war orphan, they didn’t say. Lisette.”

“Harran,” Rian said, trying to stop him, but it was too late, Brea had already seen the look on his face.

“Oh,” she whispered. That was what Rian was going to tell her. Harran was in love. With some Cammadie farm girl. “Leaving her must have been difficult.” He smiled. He didn’t see, he didn’t see at all, her heart had just cracked in two.

“It was, yes,” he said.

“Harran,” Rian said, breaking whatever revelry his brother had entered. Harran looked at him. “You were looking for me.”

“Right,” Harran said, “Father wanted to speak to you.” Rian nodded and they walked back inside. Brea sat down and looked up at the moon.

Nearly a year went by, their usual rhythm of coming and going from the keep, stayed. In the spring, Rian returned from Rastan and gave her a pearl bracelet which she accepted with a smile.

“It’s beautiful,” she said as he slid it on her wrist.

“Princess Rila suggested it, when I asked a what gift to bring you,” he said, shyly. She smiled. “Brea, I think we should talk.” She pressed her lips into her mouth.

“If you like,” she said. She looked inside the hall and saw Harran sitting with a few other people. “Rian, this was very thoughtful,” he smiled sadly.

“But no thank you?” He said. She nodded. “You can’t say I didn’t try.” She laughed. “My brother is a fool,” she sighed.

“I wish it was you,” she said, “it would make everything easier.” He smiled. But she’d made her decision. She’d made it months ago.

That night before dinner was over she slipped out and into Harran’s chamber. She undressed and lay in the bed, and waited. The door opened and then she sat up.

“Brea?” He asked, clearly confused. “What are you doing here?” She smiled and let the blankets drop off of her. “Brea,” his voice was soft, but a little frustrated. “You should go.”

“I don’t want to,” she said softly. He picked up her robe with a sigh and sat down to cover her. Instead she leaned close and kissed him.

“Don’t do that,” he said and guided her away. “Rian,” he started.

“I don’t want Rian,” she whispered, “I want you, I’ve only ever wanted you.” He looked at her. “You must at least think about me,” she slid his hands to her waist. “Enjoy seeing me?”

“You’re very beautiful,” he was still talking so carefully, so gently. “You know that. But this isn’t,” she kissed him again. This time he bent to her more. “Brea,” he whispered.

“I’m yours, Harran,” she said softly. “You can have me however you want.” Did your little farm girl ever offer you that? she thought. He kissed her back hungrily. She let her magic graze his skin to show him what she meant.

Lust makes beasts of us all, her mother had told her once, when after performing a wedding, they’d watched a shy young man, a shepherd known for his gentleness, drag his pretty little bride to his tent, and the girl’s cries had startled and even frightened her. At least now he’s bound to protect her.

“I won’t hurt you,” Harran murmured, as if he’d seen the same memory. It had worked. she looked at him. “Not on purpose at least, I know for girls, the first time,” she groaned as he slid his hands between her thighs and parted them. “I’ll be gentle.”

“How do you know it’s my first time,” she whispered as his fingers parted her lips and he began suckling at her breasts. Her body shuddered.

“Brea,” he laughed, “if any man or boy had had you they’d have bragged endlessly,” she whimpered as he found the secret place in her that she’d touched thinking of him so many nights. “Except perhaps my brother and you’ve just said that you two hadn’t.”

“Oh,” she whispered. Of course, Brea Averran, the desert rose, one chief has called her. Such a beauty, and the other such a talent, the gods blessed your parents. “Ohh,” her next exhale was one of shock as Harran’s hardness invaded her. He was so large, and it did hurt, a little, but he was stroking in and out of her so gently, his hands on her back, gently moving in circles, she mostly felt dizzy with pleasure.

“So beautiful,” he whispered. Yes, if it was her beauty that he wanted, rather than herself, she would live with it. “So soft, and tight, Brea.” He grunted her name and withdrew spending in the sheets. The sudden absence of him made her mewl with need.

Lusts makes beasts of all of us.

“I need more,” she said, clinging to him, he chuckled gently and began moving his kisses down her body, “Harran,” she moaned his mouth landed between her thighs, and he licked and kissed her.

Nika had whispered to her once that a girl had done this for her, but she’d never expected it from a man. She moaned and writhed as her pleasure gripped her and then collapsed.

He wrapped around her from behind, burying his face in her hair. Any man who had you would brag endlessly. Yes, most of the keep would know about this tomorrow, but she couldn’t bring herself to care.

The chieftain’s health and mind were failing. He had three sons, Harran the presumptive heir. Brea and Nika had been volunteered by their father to help care for him. So her days were taken up with the father and her nights with the son.

Every night she wondered if she and Harran had reached the limits of pleasure only to find there was more, always more. And it wasn’t only sex, when they lay in bed together, they talked.

“I don’t know if I’m ready,” he whispered. She looked at him. “What if the tribes want someone else?”

“Why would they?” She asked. He laughed lightly.

“Not everyone sees me how you do, Brea,” he mumbled, and kissed her forehead. She smiled.

“It isn’t as though I think you’re perfect,” she rolled her eyes. “You’re terrifically arrogant, and you have awful table manners, and you laugh too much even when whatever was said wasn’t that funny.”

“Well that is a through accounting of my flaws,” he smiled and kissed her.

“Oh I’m not through yet,” she giggled and rolled onto her back, “when we were children you used to tease Nika so much she cried every time we came here, and you’re too competitive, and,” he kissed her.

“Enough of that,” he said. She smiled. “But you think I’m ready, despite all that?”

“I don’t know what ready means,” she admitted. “But I know your father isn’t going to die tomorrow. Probably not for a long time, he’ll be weak, and confused sometimes, but he’ll live.”

“You know this?” He said. She nodded. “How?”

“Because Nika and I are really very good at this,” she said. He smiled.

“Of course you are, Love,” he said. It was just an endearment, he didn’t really love her, he never said so. But still her heart raced when he said it.

“You’re going?” Brea asked, her face fully fallen. Harran looked at her kindly, and cupped her face.

“It’s a great honor, for me,” he said, “for us.” She narrowed her eyes. “I’m going to sit on The Queen’s Council.” That wasn’t why hew as excited to go. He was excited because his Lisette, his little farm girl turned out to actually be the Queen of Cammadan. She crossed her arms and frowned. “Don’t pout, Brea.”

“You don’t think she’ll actually want you?” She said sharply, her frown turning to a glare. “What have the Cammadie ever wanted from us but our land and bodies for their army?”

“You don’t know her,” he snapped back.

“Neither do you,” she argued, “you spent a few months with a little girl three years ago! I’m here, I’ve been here for years, in front of you, in your bed, at your side and it’s like you feel nothing!” He stared at her.

“Brea, I’m not leaving you,” he said. She swallowed. “But what am I supposed to do, ignore her?” Marry me, part of her thought, or at least take me with you. Promise me anything. “I’ll come back, and we’ll,” he exhaled. “We’ll make decisions then.”

“It’s up to you to decide it all then?” She said, she was seeing red, she was so furious.

“I think you’ve made your decisions,” he said. “You knew my feelings.” She raised her chin.

“I don’t seem to recall any complaints,” she said. His face flattened. “I’m sorry that I didn’t slink off into a corner and marry Rian because it would simplify your situation, Harran. Have a safe journey.” She turned on her heel and left.

Brea sat in silence looking over at Brightcoast palace from her horse. Nika was besides her.

“He probably wants to see you,” her sister said cheerfully. Brea looked at her.

“He probably needed a seer, and knew you’re too loyal to come without me,” she snorted and tossed her hair.

“Cynicism doesn’t suit you,” Nika sighed, “and if you’re the sarcastic one and the beautiful one, what does that leave me, hm?” Brea laughed. “Harran loves you, he’s just stubborn, I’m sure the minute he sees you again, he’ll drop to his knees begging you to take him back.” Brea smiled.

He hadn’t. And she couldn’t peg quite what was happening, between him and his farmgirl (Queen or not, Brea wouldn’t think of her as anything else.) but it was clearly enough that the Prince of Phania was nowhere to be found and Harran could barely make eye contact with her. They were settled in an elaborate and comfortable apartment after a meeting where she should have behaved better at, when Nika walked in and plopped down on the bed.

“What are you thinking about?” Brea asked, brushing out her hair. Nika bit her bottom lip and unwound her veil.

“She said she had Dream about me,” Nika mumbled. Brea laughed softly. This happened, from time to time, they’d walk in some place and Nika would notice some pretty girl and be distracted for a few days, but Duchess Marina was exceptionally pretty, and apparently had magic so, Nika might be a goner for weeks. She’d heard people say that the Duchess and the queen resembled each other, but she refused to think about that. “Did you talk to Harran?”

“I did not,” Brea shook her head, “and I don’t plan to.” She mustered her dignity into her spine. Nika shook her head. “He’s sleeping with her.”

“Yes, that was patently obviously,” Nika sighed. “I’m sorry.” Brea closed her eyes. “You should still talk to him.”

“He’s just going to tell me to go home and marry Rian,” she muttered. Nika laughed. “That’s his answer to everything. ‘Rian is a good man, he cares for you, it will please the elders!’ As if we haven’t shared a bed for two years.” She plopped next to her sister.

“Seems rather unfair to Rian, too,” Nika said. “To have his brother assume he’d be content as a consolation prize.” Brea smiled. Nika was of course right, and it wasn’t as though Rian and she hadn’t discussed the matter. She did like him, and never wanted to see him hurt in this crossfire.

That evening they sat through a rather painfully awkward dinner, though Nika seemed to be befriending the Cammadie. It was after dinner that it got really bad though. Harran walked out onto the terrace where Brea was watching the waves.

“I suppose we should talk,” he said. She turned and looked at him and smiled wickedly.

“What about?” She said. He sighed. “I’m not leaving you, Brea,” she repeated to him, “we’ll talk it about when I come home.”

“I had every intention,” he started.

“What did you say to her?” She asked and crossed her arms. “Did you talk about how you pined for her? How you would mumble her name in your sleep after you’d spent the night satisfying yourself with me?”

“There’s no reason to be cruel,” he said. She laughed then.

“I am not the cruel one in this scenario,” she said. “She doesn’t know who I am does she? You sent for me and didn’t even tell her!” He swallowed. “I can’t believe you,” she marched out onto the beach. “I don’t understand why you did send for me.”

“Because I needed to trust whoever it was, and I trust you.” She frowned.

“You needed someone with the sight and knew Nika wouldn’t come without me,” she said, her hurt rising. She would not cry in front of him. “I suppose I was fooling myself, because I thought maybe you actually wanted to see me.”

“Brea,” his voice went soft, pitying. “What am I supposed to do?” She frowned again.

“I don’t care what the elders say or even you,” she said, before he could even start. “I won’t marry Rian just because you changed your mind.”

I never made up my mind,” he said, “You made it up for me.” She swallowed another lump. “But things changed.”

“Yes, obviously,” she said, letting outa huff, “and now I’m supposed to just bow and smile to the woman who ruined my life. Wonderful.” She marched back into the palace and only when she knew Harran hadn’t followed did she let out a sob.

Two years of fruitless searches and long magic lessons had lead to and exhausted Brea asking if she could stay at the keep for longer than a few days. She was exhausted. Nika was pouting because Duchess Marina was in Dovetail. But they were needed anyway, as Chieftain Marcus was dying.

“I had wanted you as a daughter,” he said one day, as Brea ground some flowers to dry for his tea in the morning. She smiled gently at him.

“I wanted to be your daughter,” she said, gently. “It’s been my honor to care for you.” She brushed his hair off his forehead and applied a salve to his brow. He slept and she passed the time drying more leaves and flowers.

“How is he?” She turned and saw Harran in the doorway.

“Weak,” she said softly. “It won’t be long now.” He nodded. “We didn’t expect you yet.” He exhaled.

“Lisette and I,” he said, “I think we’ve reached an impasse.” She looked at him with half a smirk.

“She said no?” She asked. He nodded. “Well, she’s always been foolish.” He laughed.

“Not everyone sees me with your eyes, Brea,” he teased. She smiled. “I’m glad I didn’t miss him.”

“He’d have waited for you,” she said, “I think he has been.” He nodded. “Anders and Rian arrived a few days ago.” He nodded.

“Thank you for,” he swallowed. “Thank you, Brea.” She looked at him, she hadn’t looked at him in so long, she’d been afraid to, afraid to let her heart stop hating him.

“What else can I do?” She whispered.

Another six months went by, Harran was selected by the tribes, and Brea resumed her more nomadic life. She’d stopped in a tribal camp to name a few children, and she’d settled into a light sleep when the yells came.

“Is there a witch?” Came from one voice, male and she knew it. She shot off of her cot and out to the center, Prior Chastain and Tristan Dugarry were holding Harran up. “Brea, Thank Cornan,” Tristan said. She felt frozen.

“What happened?” She asked as they moved him into her tent. But she feltit instantly. Shadows. “How many were there?”

“Ten, maybe,” Prior said softly. I nodded. “Should we go?”

“No,” she said and knelt down. She brushed his hair off his face. He smiled at her. “What are you smiling about, Chieftan?”

“The gods are good,” he said, “I’m attacked by a shadow and in the nearest camp is Brea Averran.”

“Fool,” she shook her head, and looked at the two Cammadie Rangers. How in the Dark Lady’s web had it been woven that she was currently in a tent with all of Annalise Dovetail’s lovers. Was Eric of Phania going to stride in next? “Harran,” she whispered. “Do you remember our first night?”

“Vividly,” he tried to tease but his face was going pale. She nodded. “Is the cure for you to be naked and bossy?” She rolled her eyes and she noticed Prior grin.

“Hush,” she said, “when you touched me, you saw what I was thinking about, now I”m going to see your thoughts,” she slid her hand against his chest, “think of warmth, and joy.” She closed her eyes and her body filled with light from Harran to reflect back to him. Some things she recognized. Rian and Anders and him with their father as boys, learning their swords. The first time he’d made Nika laugh, a shared memory that she added hers to. And then an unexpected one, an unremarkable morning they’d spent together. Then the shadow rose out of him and hissed.

“Do you claim him?” It hissed. “Brea Averran, Desert Rose, lesser of two sisters?”

“Yes,” she said. “I claim this man, he is mine, you cannot have him.” She shot a beam of light at the shadow and it dispersed. She nearly fainted.

“Brea,” Prior caught her. She looked up at him. “It’s alright.” She swallowed and looked over. Harran’s color had returned. He was asleep but she could handle that. “What do you need?” She stared at him.

“Water,” she said. He nodded and left. I sat down and looked at Tristan.

“You claimed him,” he said. She swallowed. “That’s powerful magic, Brea.”

“What would you know about it?” She asked. He shrugged.

“You’re right,” he said, his voice deadpan, “I’ve spent the past two years hunting and fighting shadows and doing nearly nothing else, but what would I know about a claiming?” She glared at him. “You’re bound now, forever.”

“I was anyway,” she said. “I would think you of all people would understand that.” He smiled sadly.

“Yes,” he smiled, “I do understand.”

“How are you friends with them?” She asked. Tristan laughed.

“Prior and I were friends before he and Annalise began,” he exhaled “whatever they’re doing, and he,” he nodded to Harrani, “is a very difficult man to dislike.” She smiled. “I hate Eric and despise Damian Lestoff and your sister is a deeply suspicious person, if that comforts you at all. There’s also a Rastani merchant captain who if I ever see again I will probably murder.” She laughed. “I’ll leave you,” he kissed her on the cheek. She sat on the end of the cot and looked at Harran.

“You’re mine,” she whispered.

It had been weeks of misery. Harran was healing, but he was a terrible patient. She’d wanted to move on leaving his care to the apprentice in the camp but everyone had insisted that she continue to care for the Chieftain.

“Brea,” he said one evening from the much more comfortable bed, that had been set for him than the cot where she frist healed him. “Lay down with me.” She glared at him. “Not for that, I know I’m too weak.”

“What for then?” She asked.

“Because I’ve missed lying in bed with you for years.” He said. She looked at him. “Please? I’ll order them to give you room to leave if you do.”

“Oh honestly,” she said and lay down beside him, “it is my honor to care for the chieftains.” He smiled and wrapped his arms around her, their heartbeats began to sync. “Harran,” she mumbled. “What do you mean you missed lying with me?” He smiled. “Didn’t Annalise,” he sighed.

“I loved her,” he said, “but she carries heavy burdens, it makes her hard to talk to.” Brea smiled. “I could always talk to you.”

“What’s it been like?” She asked. He frowned.

“Strange,” he managed. “When people call me Chieftain, I still look for my father,” she smiled, “and I’m not used to Anders and Rian deferring to me. That’s very strange.” She laughed. “And this, for instance, you being compelled to stay with me, that wouldn’t have happened before.”

“I’m surprised they didn’t send for Nika,” she whispered. He smiled and kissed her softly.

“When will you stop that?” He asked.

“What?” She asked.

“Acting like people only value you in relation to Nika,” he said. “Your sister has a great many gifts, but she wasn’t the one who soothed my father’s fever enough that we could say goodbye,” he traced a finger to her hairline, “she didn’t convince Annalise that annexing the tribes wasn’t as productive as partnering with us. And she didn’t stand toe to toe with a shadow to save my life.” She lookedat him.

“I won’t let you do this to me again,” she whispered.

“Do what?” He asked.

“Make me love you and then pretend there’s nothing between us,” she whispered. He slipped her hair between his hands.

“When did I ever say there wasn’t anything between us?” He whispered. She rolled her eyes. “Alright, fine, but perhaps you were too pushy.”

“If you once said ‘no,'” she shrugged, “I would agree.” He laughed. “It was always ‘wait,’ so I did.” He kissed her again.

“Rian has never missed the chance to tell me what a I fool I was to turn you away,” he murmured. She laughed and they kissed again. He slid a hand to the fold in her robe.

“Harran,” she mumbled.

“You’re the healer,” he mumbled, “am I well enough?” She giggled. They kissed heavily.

“If you leave me again, I wil curse you,” she mumbled.

“I’m not leaving you ever again,” he whispered. “You’re mine.”

Posted on by Reenie 0

Interlude: Leave It Settled

Note: OK, so, if two weeks ago we were talking about how Annalise is like Anton, here we get into how she’s like Marie. Also Olivia is still the best…and a Brayton insight that kind of…changes things, at least in my opinion. (And is also this sort of key detail about him that I realized I’ve never revealed. Mostly because, in what context would anyone talk about these events?)

Marie

She stood on the beach looking across the water and inhaled. She felt Anton step behind her and wrap his arms around her waist. It had been a year since she’d come to Cammadan and falling in love with Anton had brought her more peace than she thought possible.

“Do you still fear it?” He asked, kissing her neck gently. She cooed leaning back against him.

“No,” she sighed, “you’ll keep me safe.”

“I love you,” he said. “I think getting married here will be good.” She laughed.

“I haven’t said yes yet,” she turned around. He nodded.

“Hmm,” he said. “What could possibly be left to convince you?” She kissed him softly.

“Anton,” she said gently. “Loving each other is one thing, but marriage,” she swallowed. “My mandate,” he slid his hand to her stomach.

“Prophecies are misinterpreted all the time,” he said, “and I can think of worse things than a chosen king or queen for Cammadan.” She swallowed.

“It isn’t that simple,” she said, “didn’t Brayton tell you,” he laughed.

“I’m telling you I love you and want to marry you and you’re talking about Brayton’s jealous ramblings,” he said. She looked up at him. “He wants you, Marie, and he knows you don’t want him, it isn’t complicated.” She shook her head and pulled away. “Unless you do.”

“Don’t be ridiculous,” she said, “you know I only want you.” He pulled her close again.

“And so you have me,” he whispered. “Marry me, love.”

“They’ll hate it,” she whispered sitting down in the sand.

“Who?” He frowned sitting with her.

“People,” she said. “Your people, the old lords. I’m foreign and insignificant! They want you to marry someone very grand and Cammadie!”

“And who is this grand Cammadie girl I’m meant for?” He was laughing.

“Please don’t laugh at me,” she said softly. “I don’t know, Olivia, I suppose.”

“If I asked Olivia to marry me now, she’d never speak to me again,” he said, “and my people will love you because I love you. And the old lords will eventually,” he fluttered his hand, “die I guess.” She looked at him and shook her head.

“I left Phania because I didn’t want to be a queen,” she said seriously.

“You didn’t want to be Daniel’s queen,” he countered. She scowled at him and stood up.

“Oh you have an answer for everything don’t you?” She fumed. “I know you aren’t used to being denied, Your Highness, but my answer is no!” She marched away. He stared at her retreating dumbfounded.

Anton

Anton walked into the bedroom and plopped down on the bed. The door opened behind him and Olivia Bano entered.

“Why are you in my bed, Anton?” She asked, sounding almost as annoyed as Marie had on the beach.

“The answer to that did used to be self evident, Livvie,” he rolled over and grinned at her. She frowned and narrowed her eyes.

“Are you drunk?” She scowled and placed a letter on her desk.

“Is that from Tom?” He asked. She frowned. “Marie turned me down.”

“What could she have been thinking?” Olivia deadpanned and sat down. “You’re just so charming!”

“Come comfort me,” he pouted.

“No,” she said.

“No?” He said. “I am clearly losing my irresistibility!” She huffed at him. “Why would she say no? I’m sensitive, clever, considerate, passionate, charming, handsome and heir to a throne.”

“And modest to boot!” Olivia gasped. He glared at her. “Marie loves you. Let that be enough.”

“It isn’t,” he said. “She said I should marry you.” She smiled.

“I hate to kick you when you’re down but, no thank you,” she said. He frowned at her.

“Is that a letter from Tom?” He asked. “I haven’t heard from him or John in weeks.” She crossed her arms defensively.

“It’s really none of your business,” she said. He sat up and looked at her. “It’s from Caleb.”

“Why?” He gaped. Caleb Pantona was an excellent courtier. He was also one of the dullest men in Anton’s acquaintance.

“We write sometimes,” she muttered, “while he’s in Pantona. We’re friends, like you and me.” He raised his eyebrows.

“So then he’s seen you naked,” Anton nodded. She glared at him. “You said like you and me.”

“I am once again, baffled as to why Marie wouldn’t want to marry you,” she said. He glared at her. “What do you actually want, my Prince?” She said gently. He looked up at her. “Don’t make a joke.”

“I want her,” he said, “forever.” She nodded.

“She’s offered you that,” she said. “But then you can’t marry.” He frowned. “That’s your choice.”

“When did you get so wise?” He said, taking her waist and pulling her down.

“When I grew up,” she shrugged.

“I don’t like it,” he frowned. “It’s quite annoying.” She giggled.

Marie

Marie sat in a courtyard at the University Outpost. She was still furious. How dare Anton treat her concerns like they were trivial, as if he could wave them away? And feel his desire overrode hers? She didn’t want to marry anyone! She’d offered him her love and her body and her companionship, and it wasn’t enough. He wanted vows that bound her to him and a destiny she wanted no part of.

“Marie?” Brayton walked out. He’d grown again. Two years younger than Anton, a year younger than her, he was still moving awkwardly between boyhood and manhood. “They said you were here to see me. Is everything alright?” His dark hair was just brushing his brow and his stormy grey eyes were concerned.

Those eyes. The same as Anton’s but somehow sadder and harder. She and Brayton had become friends when she first arrived. He had claimed to want to help her and Les sever her mandate. But lately being around him was difficult. She could sense the shift in his feelings for her and there was something else there, something darker.

“I,” she swallowed, “I told Anton no.” He blinked at her.

“Oh,” he sat down with her. “Why?” She looked at him.

“He doesn’t see me,” she sighed. “He doesn’t understand and he doesn’t seem to even want to try.” He cupped her face.

“I see you,” he whispered. She swallowed as he leaned closer and kissed her gently. She pulled away and stood up. “Marie, you have to know how I feel, I know you,” he followed her. “I know you don’t feel the same way. I didn’t even hope, because Anton is, well Anton,” she swallowed and looked at him, “but I do love you, and I’d take such good care of you, Marie, I would.”

“Kiss me again,” she said. He smiled and pulled her close and kissed her, more passionately this time. It was clumsy, but terribly sweet. Maybe this was why something in her was fighting against Anton. Maybe she belonged with Brayton. “Tell me what you want from me.” She said softly.

“From you?” Brayton lifted her chin. “I’ll take whatever you wish to give me.” She let him kiss her again. But her heart stayed steady, didn’t speed up, no heat spread over her blood. She didn’t love Brayton, but maybe she could bask in his love for her, and her own would grow.

Anton

This trip to Brightcoast had been hastily put together. He’d done it in hopes of pleasing Marie and now he hadn’t even seen her in days. He wanted to apologize or something, anything, he just wanted to see her.

Instead she walked into the dining room for the only official supper they were having before returning to Dovetail in a week, and he jumped out of his seat to run to her, and he froze seeing she was on his cousin’s arm. He felt like an invisible hand had taken hold of her throat. Marie, in her simple white gown, and her dark curls piled on her head, decorated with borrowed pearls from Anne, with Brayton, who looked entirely too pleased with himself for Anton’s mind. He strode over to them.

“Lady Marie, you look lovely,” he took her hand and kissed it.

“Your Highness,” she said. Her eyes met his. What was she thinking?

“Cousin,” Anton said, his jaw clenched and Brayton smirked. “I didn’t know you were joining us.”

“Had I known you were coming I would have been to see you sooner, of course,” Brayton said. “But until Marie came to see me I hadn’t the slightest idea court was in Brightcoast.” Came to see him? Why had she gone to see him?

“It isn’t full court, as you can see,” Anton said. “I know you came here to study, I didn’t wish to distract you.” Brayton smirked again.

“Brayton has agreed to come back Dovetail,” Marie said softly. Anton clenched his jaw.

“Has he?” He said. “How fortunate.””

“Of course,” Brayton looked at Marie, “after all, nothing is more distracting than being apart.” Anton frowned. He didn’t understand what was happening, but he needed to speak to Marie.

Marie

She stood out on the terrace and took a deep breath. A year ago she’d met Anton out here, now she didn’t know what was happening, how her life had become such a mess.

“You only needed to tell me,” Anton’s voice drifted behind her. “If it was that you wanted to be with Brayton, I wouldn’t have,” he exhaled. She looked at him. “How tedious these last few months must have been for you.” He was so hurt. He could never mask his heart, she loved him so much for it.

“It isn’t what you think,” she swallowed, there were tears in her eyes, “I went to see him after I left you.” Anton was standing so straight and tall. “I just needed someone to talk to. And he,” she exhaled. “He isn’t you,” she whispered. “I love you. But I can’t give you what you need and he just wants me. I can give that.” Anton pulled her close and kissed her deeply. Her heart fluttered, her body flushed she clung to him like it might save her life.

She’d never be kissed by Anton Dovetail again. What a horrible thought. He’d never touch her, or make love to her again, or laugh when she got frustrated, or a million small things that made him perfect.

“I’ll never love anyone else,” Anton whispered. “I think the gods put me in this world for you.” She swallowed. “Be happy with him, Marie, you deserve so much joy.” She looked up at him and swallowed and he squeezed her hand and stepped away.

That night rather than return to the university, Brayton came to her bed. Like his kisses, his lovemaking was eager, sweet, and a bit clumsy.

“I’ve wanted this for so long,” he murmured as he moved in her.

“Brayton,” she whispered, doing her best to draw pleasure from him. He groaned as she said his name and finished. He held her and she slept. She Dreamed that night of a girl with soft caramel skin and grey Dovetail eyes, and she was carrying Anton’s sword.

Anton

Olivia found him on the beach, a bottle of her beloved Caleb’s Pantona whiskey half drunk beside him.

“Oh Anton,” she said. He smiled up at her.

“Spose the next girl will go to, I dunno,” he muttered, “my father? John? You’re with my best frien,” he hiccuped. “She’s with my cousin. Running out of men close by to be left for.” She sat down with him. “Why’d you choose Tom?” She frowned.

“I don’t think that’s the same,” she whispered. “You weren’t in love with me.” He frowned.

“Livvie,” he kissed her neck, “we were nice though. I liked being with you. Didn’t hurt. This hurts.” She pushed him away gently. “Course, you’ve got Pantona now. Pretty Livvie Bano needs her title.”

“You’re drunk so I’m going to let that one slide,” she said. He fell backwards.

“That was mean,” he said, “you’re right. Bet Brayton’s not mean. Pious, smug little shit. With his books and his magic and his, his,” he frowned. “My Marie. But she’s his now.”

“What will make you feel better?” She asked. He took her hand and pulled her on top of him. “Besides sex, Anton.”

“No, no,” he said, “sex will be good. Tom won’t mind, he understands. Plus he’s with that merchant boy.” She frowned and stood up. “Livvie, wait.”

“Come see me when you’re ready to apologize,” she said. “We aren’t just your toys, Anton. The rest of us have lives to live too.”

Marie

Marie woke up to Brayton dressing. He smiled as she sat up.

“I didn’t want to wake you,” he said and kissed her gently. “You were fitful, is everything alright?”

“I was,” she started, but stopped short of telling him she was Dreaming. She’d have to told Anton, she realized. “I just don’t sleep well.” She lied. He nodded. The door swung open and Lady Olivia Bano burst in.

“Hello Lady Olivia,” Brayton purred sarcastically at her. She stared daggers at him. “I’ll see you later, Marie?”

“Of course,” she whispered. He kissed her, possessively, as if proving something. He left the two girls in icy silence.

“I know we don’t know each other well, but may I ask what in the hell you think you’re doing?” Olivia finally broke it. “Anton is beside himself! I am certainly on your side about the marriage, he was being a terrible bully about it, but whatever this is,” she exhaled. “It’s cruel.”

“You couldn’t understand,” Marie stood up, pulling a robe on. Olivia frowned. “I can’t be with Anton, I can’t. And I can’t be alone either, I need,” she sighed. “If I don’t have someone to protect me, my brother will continue to delay.” Olivia stared at her. “Daniel could,” she hugged herself, “well, call me back basically.” Olivia nodded. “Les deserves his happiness. And Brayton is powerful, and he adores me,” she looked down. “But I won’t lose myself to him. I love Anton too much, he’d take all of me and not even realize he was doing it.”

“I understand that better than you might think,” Olivia said gently. Marie nodded. “I think we’d all give our whole selves to Anton before he realized he’d asked too much of us.” She paused. “Tom is in love with someone else,” she whispered. “I see it, in his letters, the way he writes about him. He’s only ever talked that way about Anton. Sometimes I think I went to Anton to please Tom, if he couldn’t have him, I could.” She looked down. “I broke my own heart for him, but you don’t have to Marie.” Marie looked at her and started crying.

“What have I done?” She whispered. “He won’t forgive me, how could he?” Olivia held her while she cried.

Anton

They’d returned to Dovetail and he was avoiding her as much as possible. Complete avoidance was impossible, of course, as Brayton’s sudden interest in being present meant Marie was at his side.

Sometime in Anton made him feel like his cousin was torturing him. And something was wrong with Marie. She seemed desperately unhappy, and it seemed like Brayton hadn’t noticed.

“You need to find someone,” his father said one afternoon. “I know you’re disappointed, I understand, but Anton,” he sighed.

“I know,” Anton said softly. “I know, I do. Can’t you and Mother just pick someone?” His father laughed.

“I believe your mother would certainly try,” he said, “if either of us thought it would make you even remotely happy.”

Anton glanced across the courtyard to see Marie sitting with one of her books. He excused himself and walked across. She looked up at him.

“May I help you?” She asked.

“I suppose not,” he said. She furrowed her brow. “I think I forgot,” she smiled gently. “I miss you.”

“Oh Anton, please don’t,” she whispered. “What’s the point?” He sat down.

“The point is I miss you,” he whispered. “And you seem unhappy.” She swallowed. “If you were happy, maybe I could,” she smiled indulgently. “Well, no, I guess I couldn’t.”

“No,” she said, “you couldn’t.” He pressed his hand against her cheek. “I miss you too.” He leaned in and kissed her gently.

“Sweet girl.” She sighed softly.

“Could I still say yes?” She whispered.

“Yes,” he said. She smiled. He vowed to himself to make her smile everyday for the rest of their lives.

Marie

She stood in her room folding a few things to go in a trunk, humming to herself. The door opened and she looked up.

“You sent for me?” Brayton asked, wrapping his arms around her from behind. She slid away. “What’s wrong? I thought, when you, that you wanted me, we haven’t since that night.”

“Brayton, I,” she exhaled, “this was wrong, of me. Leading you on,” he frowned, he looked so young again. “That night, we shouldn’t have.”

“I don’t understand.” He said.

“I accepted Anton this afternoon,” she said. Brayton stared at her.

“Why?” He asked.

“I love him,” she mumbled. “I know this hurt you, I’m sorry.”

“I love you,” he said. “I thought you understood.” She swallowed. “You’re going to marry him?” She nodded. She saw it then, on his face, in his eyes. The dark thing, whatever it was. “Fine, then, I wish you joy.” He marched out and slammed the door. She exhaled and prayed to Rana that he’d forgive them, though somehow she doubted it.

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