Tag: Interlude

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: Why Me?

Note: Happy Fourth Of July! This is the first of two interludes about…well, largely about Anton and Marie and the strange factors that made their relationship complicated. (The other will go up on July 20th, for the six anniversary) They’re also a lot about Olivia being just the best. Writing about Anton in particular is something I love doing, so much of Annalise comes from her father. He too has a big heart, and sometimes assumes that excuses some less than stellar interpersonal behavior.

Anton

How was she so beautiful? Marie Sanpierre was standing in the Dovetail courtyard. They’d arrived a few hours ago, it had been months and she was all he could think about. He walked over to her.

“Lady Marie,” he said. She smiled at him.

“Your Highness,” she said with a gentle curtsey.

“What are you doing?” He asked.

“Looking at the arches,” she said, “the book I was reading on the ride said Mariah formed them out of magic.” He smirked.

“If you believe every claim, Mariah built half the city out of magic,” he said. She giggled and he kissed her.

“Anton,” she whispered as he pressed her back against one the arches. “We shouldn’t. What if someone sees?” He laughed.

“They’ll see I’m enjoying myself with a pretty girl,” he said, “I doubt anyone will be shocked.” She frowned and slipped out of his arms. “Marie, I didn’t mean,” he sighed, “you aren’t just another girl.”

“So you say,” she said. He sighed and looked at her.

“Come here,” he mumbled and took her hand. She looked at him. “I was just teasing.” She smiled. “I only want you.”

“You were with Lady Olivia yesterday,” she said and he pulled her close again.

“Livvie is a friend,” he said, “that part is over between us.” She nodded.

“And Morgan Lawson?” She said.

“Is marrying Wyatt Allred,” he frowned, “and I haven’t seen her in weeks.” She nodded and smirked as he kissed her neck.

“Natalie Graves?” She asked.

“Marie,” he said, “I only see you, now.” She looked up at him.

“For now,” she said. He frowned. Suddenly the idea that he’d never been serious about anyone seemed awful, if it meant she didn’t believe him.

Marie

She hadn’t meant to turn down Anton exactly. She’d found she really did like kissing him. She didn’t even really object to the idea of going to bed with him, which he’d brought up a few times, though she was nervous about it.

She just hated the idea of being on in his endless cycle of girls. She wondered how many times he’d whispered that some girl was the only one, and then a few weeks later moved on to someone else. She frowned looking in the mirror.

“Aunt Lara would be appalled at your hair,” Les said walking in. She laughed. She’d let her dark curls grow wild, occasionally brushing them out, and usually dressing them with flowers of jewlry borrowed from Les’s Anne.

“Aunt Lara would be appalled at most of my behavior since we got here,” she said and sat down. “I put him off again.”

“Well, Aunt Lara wouldn’t be appalled at that,” he rolled his eyes, “she’d remind you that no man should ever touch you beyond dancing until Rana herself came down and blessed your marriage. Meanwhile Elana’s been in and out of that Pharras captain’s villa for a year.”

“Don’t spread gossip,” Marie chastised him. Their cousin had been rather indiscrete in her dealings with Kieran Franz. Though in her last letter she’d mentioned she’d been seeing more of Daniel. Good for Elana, it was what she’d always wanted. “It’s getting harder.”

“So stop,” Les shrugged. “We live here now, you don’t have to worry what they’d say at home, and literally no one here cares what Anton’s up to.” She looked down. “Oh that’s what this is. You don’t want to be just another one of his girls.”

“No, I don’t,” she said. “I think I’m in love with him.” Her brother looked at her.

“Well that’s troublesome,” he grinned. She tossed a pillow at him. “Marie, you have to tell him, if that’s the case.” She swallowed.

“I know,” she said. “I know that.” Her mandate. She was Chosen. Her child would be something fierce and terrible, some kind of weapon for the gods.

Anton

“What are you so gloomy about?” Olivia said a they milled around before dinner. He looked at her.

“I think I upset Marie.” He frowned. She rolled her eyes. “Tell me something,” he said, “did you feel disposable?” She looked at him and laughed. “It’s a serious question Livvie.”

“Oh,” she sat down and thought for a moment. “No, but you and I understood each other. Neither of us were in love.” He looked at her. “I think Victoria Caplan might have felt differently.” He groaned. “Anton, what did Marie say?”

“I was trying to tell her I think she’s special,” he said. She raised her eyebrows. “And I don’t think she believed me.”

“Were you groping her at the time?” She asked.

“We were in the courtyard,” he said defensively. “She seemed to be enjoying herself.”

“Anton, really,” she said. “Did you ever consider speaking to her when your hand wasn’t up her dress? Marie is a very serious person, and she’s come here to study and escape being objectified by a prince.”

“When you put it that way,” he sighed. Olivia laughed and kissed him on the cheek.

“Is this what John had to do all these years?” She asked. Anton shrugged. “It’s exhausting.”

Marie

She walked into the ballroom and saw Anton sitting with Olivia Bano. He looked up and saw her and quickly walked over.

“I need to talk to you,” she said, before he could kiss her and she lost her senses.

“Alright,” he said, “the terrace?” She nodded and followed him outside. “Marie, this afternoon.”

“I think I’m in love with you,” she said. He was staring at her. “I know I am, I just,” she exhaled. “I didn’t just leave home because I didn’t want Daniel.”

“No?” He said, but a smile had returned to his face.

“No,” she said. “Oh, you’re going to think I’m crazy everyone always does.” He cupped her face.

“Marie,” he whispered. “I’m in love with you too,” she smiled. “Please tell me, whatever it is.”

“I have a prophecy,” she whispered. “I’m supposed to give birth to The Sword Of The Goddess. Some foretold warrior who’ll free the gods.”

“I know who the sword is,” he whispered. She nodded. “Anselm had me read every story about the gods ever written down.” She laughed. “You love me?”

“Yes,” she said.

“Why me?” He asked. She smiled.

“I don’t know,” she said. “But I do.” He nodded.

“Can I kiss you now?” He asked. She smiled and nodded. He took her in his arms and kissed her.

Anton

Marie was asleep in his arms, in his bed. She loved him and he wanted to be worthy of that. She’d already placed so much in his care. She stirred awake.

“You should be sleeping,” she mumbled.

“I know,” he said gently. “I will, I just wanted to look at you.” She smiled.

“What does this mean now?” She asked. “Am I your mistress, like Olivia was?” Anton smiled. Olivia was his only public mistress, his other affairs were rumored, never acknowledged. If Marie wanted that, he could give that.

“If that’s what you want,” he said. She smiled. “I could also court you, officially, if you like.” She raised her eyebrows.

“That would mean marriage,” she mumbled.

“Eventually,” he nodded. “You don’t have to decide right now. You already chose me, that’s enough for me, for tonight.” She kissed him, gently. “Or we could just be this, just us, private. I want you forever, whatever that looks like.”

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Interlude: John And Alexia

Note: Sorry I missed last week everyone! I was away, and also I’ve been working on other projects and I realized the post was not ready. Anyway, here’s the John and Alexia interlude I’ve been working on for a while.

Alexia Dumanis pouted as the wagons rolled away. She’d begged to go to Dovetail, but instead she was stuck in Dorin. She was ten years old, she knew how to stay out of the way. It didn’t make sense. Her brother Tristan was going and he was only eight. Practically a baby.

“Don’t be sad, Lexie,” her sister Andrea said and petted her hair gently. “I know it’s not as exciting but you are going to be a big help for me with the wedding.” Alexia looked up at Drea.

“I want to see the city though,” she sighed.

“You’re going to live there one day,” Andrea gently pushed her inside. “And then you’ll be telling your husband that you just want to come back to Dorin.” Alexia frowned. Her marriage to Sir John Dugarry was spoken of with such finality. But she was never sure if it was going to happen.

“But wouldn’t it be better if I went to Dorin and I found out if Sir John liked me?” Alexia knew better than to add and if I like him. No one in her family cared if she liked Sir John.

“Why wouldn’t he like you, sweetheart?” Drea smiled and cupped her face. Alexia sighed. “Cheer up, without Papa here I think it would be a good idea for us to try all the different cakes I have to choose from instead of dinner.”

“Really?” Alexia said. “Mama said it would make us stout.”

“Eh,” Drea flipped her hands, “we both already have husbands picked out, we can eat as much cake as we like.” Alexia giggled following her sister.

“This is boring,” Prince Anton said as they stood in the secret passageway outside of his father’s office, but John Dugarry rolled his eyes at his friend and charge.

“I didn’t make you come,” John said, “and shh, we’ll get caught, and I’ll catch a beating.”

“I would too,” Anton frowned.

“No you wouldn’t, you’re the prince, everyone lets you do whatever you want,” John said. His father was sitting in a meeting with a merchant named Carland Dumanis.

“I’d like to meet the boy,” Dumanis said, “if it’s at all possible.” John’s father, Avery frowned at that.

“I don’t think it will be,” Avery said, “my wife and I still worry this is all too early. We of course planned on sending John to Dorin when he’s older, but he’s a protector, it’s a lifetime commitment, and a great deal of John’s future is wrapped up in Prince Anton’s. Whoever he marries will need to understand that.”

“Since when are you getting married?” Anton made a face at him.

“Shh!” John hissed. “Since always. My parents made the match. Merchants do it all the time.”

“But you’re not a merchant,” Anton said. John shrugged. It wasn’t worth trying to explain it to Anton.

“Are you having second thoughts, Avery?” Dumanis said slowly. “That would be unfortunate.”

“No,” Avery smiled, not taking the bait, John felt a swell of pride at his father. “But I want to be clear, this moves on our timeline, mine, and my sons. Not yours.” Dumanis frowned but nodded and they shook hands and he left. “You two can come out of there now,” Avery called. Anton looked at John, they pushed the secret door and walked out. “Your Highness, I am very disappointed in you.”

“It was John’s idea!” Anton said indignantly.

“Yes, but John follows your orders,” Avery said, “may I have a moment with my son?” Anton nodded and rushed out mouthing, ‘I’m sorry,’ while John glared at him. “So what did you think of him?” John raised an eyebrow. “Dumanis, what did you think of him?”

“He’s arrogant,” John said, “and he doesn’t like not getting his way.” Avery nodded. “Is he dangerous?”

“Very,” Avery said. “But you’re right about his arrogance.” He clapped John on the shoulder. “Don’t do that again, or at least don’t bring Anton, he’s terrible at sneaking.”

8 Years Later

John lay on his bedroll staring up at the stars. They’d reach Dorin tomorrow, and he couldn’t sleep.

“You are thinking so loud, that it’s keeping me awake,” Tom said, and John rolled over and looked at him. “So you might as well talk.”

“I don’t know,” John said softly, “I always knew this was coming, I should be ready. But I’m just, not. Everything is running though my head. What if I don’t like her? What if she doesn’t like me? What if I do something to offend her sisters? What if I offend her father? What if we’re fine but we get back to Dovetail and Anton can’t stand her? Or Livvie does that thing where she acts like she’s complimenting another woman, but she’s really saying something that makes her cry?”

“Well,” Tom said, “first of all, Livvie hasn’t done that to Marie and she and Anton were actually something, so I think your Alexia is safe from that.” John laughed. “And if she doesn’t like you, I’ll convince her otherwise. And if you don’t like her, I’ll offend her father so that you can leave without it being your fault.”

“You’re a good friend,” John said, “I mean relatively useless in this context and I should have asked literally anyone else to come with me, but I know you’re trying.”

Alexia looked in the mirror and frowned. Briana walked in and saw her piling her hair on her head and looking over her shoulder.

“What are you doing?” Brie laughed. Alexia sighed.

“I don’t know,” she said, and flopped on the bed. “Is he here?” Briana shook her head. “What if he hates me?”

“I don’t see how that’s at all relevant,” Brie said. Alexia looked at her. “Even if he hates you, you’re beautiful and rich and his father made an agreement with Papa, so I doubt he’ll back out.” Alexia frowned.

“You have just named the only scenario worse than him hating me,” Alexia said, “he hates me and marries me anyway because he’s afraid of Papa.” Brie laughed.

“He’s not going to hate you,” Brie said softly. “And if you hate him, Amos has already agreed to ship you to his brother in Rastan, so you’ll be fine.”

“Ugh,” Alexia stood up. “You’re not helping. When does he get here?”

“Oh, he’s in the parlor,” Brie smirked. “Trey’s with him, and his representative.” Alexia gulped, “Well, I was going to tell you but then you were being dramatic.” Alexia frowned and walked downstairs. She started to make her excuses but also she was immediately struck by the way he was staring at her.

“John, this is the part where you talk,” his friend said with a smile on his face. Alexia swallowed.

“I’m John,” he managed, “it’s nice to finally meet you.” Alexia’s entire body released. Trey and the other boy excused themselves.

“It’s nice to meet you too,” she managed. “Should we sit, I think there’s supposed to be lunch, did your friend want,” she took a deep breath. “I’m a little nervous.”

“Me too,” he said and they sat down. “Tom should have introduced himself, that was rude.” She smiled and then stopped.

“Tom?” She said. He nodded. “That’s Thomas Martin?” He laughed.

“Of course you’ve heard of him, don’t tell him that, his head is already far too inflated,” John said. She giggled.

“He’ll be busy,” she said, “there are plenty of families that would take a son from a noble family, and a reputation as the best warrior in the kingdom.” John Dugarry smirked.

“They’ll be disappointed,” he said. “Tom is engaged.” She smiled. “I’m sorry this didn’t happen earlier. I kept expecting you to be with your family when they would come to Dovetail.” She rolled her eyes.

“I think my father was afraid you’d get bored of me,” she said. “I was never allowed to go.”

Bored of her. John wanted to throw the tea cup he’d picked up when she said that. He’d assumed that meeting Alexia would be pleasant. But he didn’t expect that he’d be sitting opposite probably the most beautiful girl he’d ever seen. He kept thinking about how he felt like he was going to swallow his tongue.

Or kiss her until she fell over. He really wasn’t sure. Gods, she was gorgeous though.

“Sir John?” She said softly. “Is everything alright?” He swallowed. “You look very pale.” He took a deep breath.

“I’m sorry, I,” he sighed, “it was a long journey.” She smiled and nodded.

“Of course,” she said. “And it isn’t as though we don’t have time. Our whole lives, in fact.” He smiled at that. “Let me show you to your room.” She stood up and he followed her with a large swallow. Room. Bed. Alexia. Alexia in his bed. All that blonde hair, which was long down to her waist, and her wide green eyes, a little bit lighter than his own, her lips, which default seemed to be pouting.

“Thank you,” he managed. She nodded and left him. He sighed. He was going to figure out how to actually talk to her, while looking at her. Might be tricky.

Alexia went to her room and fell back against the bed and giggled. Normally she got annoyed at the vacant and distracted look on men’s faces and manner when she walked into a room, but with Sir John, she was pleased by it. Probably because he seemed more shy than lascivious, and because it was a good first step.

“So, how did it go?” Trey said from the doorway. She sat up.

“Fine,” she said, “you?” Trey scowled at her.

“He’s engaged,” he pointed out. “To a woman.”

“These are not factors that have ever deterred you with anyone else,” she said. He sighed and sat down with her. “Are you going to tell him about the time you saw him fight in a tournament when you were thirteen, and then spent the rest of the summer writing poetry about him?”

“I am not,” Trey said. “Do you like him? Sir John, I mean?”

“I think so,” she sighed and leaned back again. “He likes me.”

“Yes, that was obvious,” Trey said. “They’re going to have to mop up the drool.” She giggled.

“I suppose I was born to be adored,” she exhaled. Trey laughed and looked at her and shook his head.

John was standing in the large ballroom, tugging at the sash on his formal guard uniform. He hadn’t worn it in a while, and it didn’t help that he was standing next to Tom, who looked like some kind of dream in his.

“Relax, will you,” Tom muttered to him. “You’re making me anxious.” John glared at him.

“I’m going to say something embarrassing to her,” John mumbled. “You saw her right?”

“Yes, she’s very beautiful,” Tom mused. “The brother’s interesting.”

“Tom, don’t you dare,” John growled, his friend grinned.

“If you think Livvie stopped flirting when we left,” Tom shrugged. “I won’t let it go too far, John don’t worry.” (Reenie’s Note: HAHAHA…Irony) Tom went to argue some more when he lost his breath. Alexia had entered the room and she seemed to be shining. “Go to her,” Tom said, with a gentle nudge. “You won’t get any better without practice.” John exhaled and walked over and took her offered hand and kissed it.

“Miss Dumanis,” he said.

“Sir John,” she smiled. “I hope you’re don’t mind our little celebration.” He laughed.

“Certainly not,” he said. “I’m supposed to dance with you first, correct?” She nodded.

“Yes,” she said. “Though not right this moment.” He nodded. “I want to show you something,” she said softly. He nodded and followed her into a parlor off of the ballroom.

“What is this?” He asked, she smiled and kissed him softly. He migrated his hands to her waist. “I see, thank you for showing me.”

“I thought you might find it interesting,” she said and crossed her wrists behind his neck. “I certainly have always been curious.” He smiled and then kissed her again. She was sweet and supple, accepting him gently.

“What will you father say?” He teased. She pulled back at looked up at him.

“My father would deliver me bound naked to your bed, if it would finalize this,” she said. He frowned and she left his arms.

“I don’t know that I would ask him for that,” he tried. She looked at him. “If this isn’t what you want, I understand.”

“No,” she said, “I just,” she sighed. “I’ve always felt trapped by it. And that isn’t your fault, so please don’t apologize.” He smiled.

“It was freedom for me,” he admitted. “I lived my whole life a step behind someone else. And I was able to live with it because I knew there was something he couldn’t even fathom waiting for me.” She smiled shyly. “Alexia,” he said, and cupped her cheek. “Open your heart to me, or at least don’t close it off.” They kissed softly again and the door opened. Andrea walked in.

“There you are,” she said. “Honestly, Lexi, I know you hate these but you’re being unforgivably rude.” She looked at the two of them. “Goddess, you two met six hours ago,” John looked down abashed, “out, now,” She snapped her fingers and pointed and they both flew off of the couch and back into the ballroom, Alexia giggled as they walked back.

“Your sister is terrifying,” John whispered. She laced her fingers through his.

“You have no idea,” she whispered.

Two months of parties and dinners, and Alexia spent a lot of time watching John, and kissing him, as finding alcoves and empty rooms to kiss had become their general routine. They talked too, which was nice but not quite as nice as the kissing.

One night they were back at the house and they were in the front parlor. The kissing had begun in earnest and she’d found herself beneath him.

“John, wait,” she whispered as he moved to her neck, “oh,” she exhaled, but he paused. “Why did you stop?”

“You said to,” he mumbled. She swallowed.

“Right,” she said, “so, we should probably,” he nodded and they kissed again. “John, we can’t,” he raised his eyebrows. “We aren’t married.” He stared at her.

“Lexi,” he said. “We’ve been betrothed since we were eight years old, and we’ll be married in three months.” She frowned up at him. “Or we can wait, if it’s important to you.”

“It isn’t important to you?” She asked and sat up. He sighed.

“I forgot about,” he sighed. “So you’re a virgin?” She nodded, now feeling a little bit silly.

“You aren’t?” She asked. He frowned. “But you said,” she started and scooted away.

“The kind of fidelity you grew up expecting wasn’t really,” he sighed. “It’s different at court.” She scowled at him and stood up and started walking out. “Lexi,” he sighed but she was already out on the back terrace. She swallowed.

“Oh,” she stopped seeing Captain Martin standing there. “I’m sorry, I’ll go.” She turned.

“It’s alright,” he said, “it’s your house, I can’t hog the best brooding spots.” She smiled. “I thought that you and John would be,” she glared at him. “Or not.”

“Apparently,” she huffed, “it wouldn’t mean anything to him.” Tom frowned at her.

“I’m not sure what you mean,” he said. She crossed her arms.

“And I suppose dallying with my brother will be just excused by Lady Olivia Bano too,” she said, “as these things just mean nothing in Dovetail.”

“No, I can assure you I would find myself in a great deal of pain if I dallied with your brother and Olivia found out,” he smiled. “And I think I understand what you’re talking about now, and I have to tell you it isn’t as though John was cycling through girls or anything.” She sniffed and looked at him. “When we were younger Anton would,” he sighed, “when he wouldn’t like a girl, John would have to speak to them.” She stared at him.

“That’s awful,” she said. Tom shrugged.

“Yes, and sometimes they would, well, think that being with John would,” he sighed. “Well, I’m sure you can imagine.” She gaped at him. “Anyway, that’s rather slowed down in the past few years.”

“Oh,” she said. He looked at her. “What is happening with you and my brother?”

“We are friends,” Tom said, “and I am getting married.” She side eyed him. “What did he say?”

“The same,” she smiled. “I don’t believe him either.” He shook his head. “I want to trust him.”

“John wouldn’t betray you, Alexia,” he said. “He made some mistakes, and believe me he carried the hurt of it enough.” She swallowed.

John lay on top of the covers of his bed, unsure what he should do next. He’d hurt her, and it was the last thing he’d wanted. He’d forgotten that Alexia’s virtue was a part of the deal, because it felt so horribly transactional. The door opened and he sat up, seeing her slip in, wearing a simple white night gown.

“Lexi,” he said, “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to,” he said.

“Tom explained to me,” she said, “girls would use you, to get to the Prince?” John looked at her.

“Everyone, not just girls, I’m a conduit,” he said, “but yes, I, there were a few.” She sat down on the bed. “A few trying to get to Tom, too.” She kissed him.

“They didn’t see you,” she whispered. He shook his head. “You said thinking of me was freeing.” He smiled.

“You were mine,” he said, “before you’d even seen me, or I’d seen you. It didn’t have anything to do Anton, or his dramas, that was,” he sighed, “it meant everything to me, Lexi. And I know that you didn’t see it the same way, but being here with you,” she kissed him.

“I understand,” she said, “I’m one of a set remember? Three sisters, all meant to increase my father’s power.” He cupped her face. “I never thought of this, of us, being something outside of that.”

“We can never speak to your father again if you like,” he shrugged. She giggled.

“I don’t think it needs to be that extreme,” she smiled, “but I don’t want betrothals, for our children.” He nodded.

“I think that’s a sensible compromise,” he whispered and pressed a kiss against her forehead. She looked up and kissed him properly. “Lexi, I think you ought to go.” She smirked.

“Do you?” She mumbled and straddled him. He looked at her.

“You don’t want to wait,” he said, his hands against her thighs.

“No,” she said, “I think I’m falling in love with you.” He smiled.

“Well, since we’re getting married, that’s very convenient,” he teased. She laughed. “I know I’m falling for you.” She smiled.

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Interlude – From The Outside In

Note: The Merriest Of Christmas Weekends To You, Marina Chronicle Readers! As a Christmas present to you, (and me!) I’m publishing two interludes, about my two favorite people in this world right now…Prior Chastain and Evan Allred. Who are these cousins who popped up and suddenly fit right in with our A list? What’s their deal?

Anyway, Prior first. Please feel free to score this particular piece with Taylor Swift’s “Mastermind” and know that in my mind, Prior is Brandon Routh.

Prior

The induction had come more quickly than he’d paid attention to. As he knelt and looked up at Queen Annalise, Prior Chastain could barely even think of the past two months of training and bonding with his squad. She was almost glowing, and she was all that mattered.

“I thank all of you,” she said, her voice gliding over the group. “And welcome your service.” They rose. Commander Dugarry said something to her and her face lit up in a laugh. He was lost. His queen could have his whole heart, physically if she wanted it.

“You seem distracted,” his cousin Evan said that evening. Prior looked at him. “Aren’t you relieved to be inducted?”

“I am,” Prior nodded, “disappointed to be staying here though.” Evan raised his eyebrows.

“It’s important work,” Evan shrugged, “I doubt Brightcoast will be all that exciting.” Prior laughed. “Did you speak to her?”

“No,” Prior laughed. “I don’t know that I ever will.” Evan sighed. “Why?”

“I don’t know,” Evan said, “I just don’t know how to talk to her.” Prior smiled. “I don’t suppose we could swap? I join the guard and you try to marry her?” Prior’s heart sped up at the thought of it. “I’m joking. Aside from my complete lack of interest, no one is getting near her with Dugarry around.”

“The Commander is leaving,” Prior said thoughtfully. “He’s going to Dorin. There’s still the princes though. And the fact that you don’t like women.” Evan laughed.

The Guard had been his Uncle’s idea, but the Rangers were his own. He was more suited to the quick moving nomadic life of the small unit. The long quiet rides through Failon’s forests and Westran’s deserts felt peaceful to him.

“Chastain,” Commander Elodie Willis-Graves walked into his barrack, he stood up and she smiled at him. “I have an assignment for you.”

“Really?” He said. He’d yet to be assigned a permanent partner.

“Mm,” she nodded, “The Countess of Pantona is pregnant.” He raised his eyebrows. “Sir Tristan requires a new partner and I think it should be you.” He stared at her.

“What?” He said, “why?” She shrugged.

“You’re good at this,” she said, “and the family likes your cousin. Tristan doesn’t really like anyone, but I think he’ll get along with you.” He stared at her. “Come on, you have to meet them.”

“You say, ‘the family,’ Elodie,” he stuttered as he followed her through the training yard, “does that mean, Sir Tristan and Lady Carolina?”

“Hello Elodie,” Duchess Marina of Brightcoast cheerfully trotted up to them. “Oh you must be Prior Chastain! Evan’s told me so much about you. I do hope you and Tristan get along.” He blinked at her.

“Thank you, Your Grace,” he bowed. She looked at the Commander.

“Elodie, are you and Mercy going to be at dinner tonight, I need to know how many places are to be set?” The Duchess asked.

“Not tonight, no,” Elodie said. “Althea’s had a cold.”

“Oh, poor thing,” the Duchess clucked, “I’ll make a tea for you all.”

“Thank you,” Elodie laughed as the Duchess padded off. “You look overwhelmed.”

“They know who I am?” He said. She rolled her eyes.

“Obviously,” Elodie said, “your cousin is living with theirs.” Prior exhaled through his nose.

“I know Raymond knows me,” he said. “But The Queen and The Duchess.” Elodie smiled fondly at him.

“Prior,” she said, “I’ve seen you with women, Annalise and Marina are just the same.” He frowned. “I’m serious. Probably Her Majesty more than anyone. She didn’t grow up a queen, she grew up a farm girl in Pantona.” He nodded. “She’s kind of a flirt too, you should know.”

“What?” He said. She smirked. Elodie always saw too much. “It isn’t,” he sighed. “What if I saw something?”

“Yes, the worst thing that could happen to you is that you tell your queen you find her bewitchingly attractive,” Elodie’s voice was flat and sarcastic. “She’ll despise you for it.” Prior sighed. She didn’t understand. No one did.

Six months and three missions later, he’d grown used to the rhythm of things, he liked Tristan Dugarry, who’s seriousness and stoicism, he’d learned was more shyness and social discomfort. Among the people he was close to, the Commander was engaging, and thoughtful.

Their time in Dovetail was his favorite. Because he was close to her. The Queen. Annalise. And she knew him now, paid attention to him, he could make her laugh.

“Hello Captain,” she smiled at him one afternoon walking from holding court.

“Your Majesty,” he bowed. She looked oddly at him. “Can I help you with something?”

“I’m curious why you come here,” she said as they walked out. “Between missions I mean, rather than go home.” He laughed.

“Ah,” he nodded. “My uncle, likes for me to be at court. All of our lives are made easier by my uncle being pleased.” She laughed.

“That’s true enough,” she said, “you’d be next in line wouldn’t you?” He raised his eyebrows. “If I accepted his petition, to dishinerit Evan?”

“His what?” Prior said. She smiled. “Of course. Here I thought he just wanted me to be happy.” She laughed. “I hadn’t realized he’d made his desires official.”

“I’m not doing it,” she remarked. He nodded. “I hope that’s not a disappointment to you. I like Evan and he’s a calming presence on council.” He smiled. “You’ll join us tonight? With everyone back in Pantona, Marina, Raymond and I are feeling a bit lonely.”

“I’d be honored,” Prior said gently. She smiled and turned and walked off. This would be the first time he was seeing her so intimately with Tristan not present.

“May I ask you something?” Annalise said that evening. They were alone, The Duchess had gone to bed and his cousin and his partner were also gone. It had happened too quickly for Prior to excuse himself. He also realized that he didn’t want to.

“I think you may ask whatever you like,” he pointed out. “You’re a queen.” She laughed at that and refilled her wine glass.

“I still like to be polite,” she sipped softly on it. “You watch me,” she said. He nodded.

“That isn’t a question,” he pointed out. She rolled her eyes. “You want to know why?” She nodded. “Because I can’t help it. I’ve tried to, since I came here five years ago. But I can’t stop.” She smiled coyly and leaned back against the sofa.

“Hm,” she nodded, “Would kissing me help, or hurt, do you think?” He blinked at her. “Sometimes it can help, you know, to get the fascination and fantasy out of your system. You could ask Prince Harran about that.” He swallowed.

“Are you asking me to kiss you?” He said. “Or is this a philosophical conversation?” She laughed. “Your Majesty,” he whispered as she moved closer, her gown rustling.

“Captain,” she said quietly, and then pressed her lips to his softly. He cupped his hands around her face. They broke apart. “So, what’s the verdict? Help or hurt?” He laughed.

“Too soon to say,” he smirked, “we’ll have to see how my attention moves tomorrow.” She nodded. She smiled and reclined again. She was beguiling, he realized. He’d watched the part she played in public. Their supernaturally serene girl Queen, as close to the goddess herself as they would ever see.

But she was utterly human. He as all the more drawn to her now.

“But I have it now,” she whispered. He smiled. “Your attention, that is?” He exhaled as she wrapped her arms around his neck.

“Yes, My Queen,” he exhaled and kissed her again, his hands moving to her waist. She was so small against him, and she was still overwhelming him. “You have my attention.” She smiled and slid out from under him.

“Excellent,” she said, “come to bed, Prior, I’ll return it.” He followed her into her bedroom and kissed her, falling back against her bed. He kissed down her neck. She said his name, and trembled when he touched her.

“I want you,” he whispered, “so much, it’s killing me.” She looked up at him and touched his face and kissed him again.

“You have me,” she whispered and pulled his shirt over his head. “No need for the dramatics.” He smiled. “Goddess, I will never stop loving this,” she ran her hands over his chest. He wasn’t sure what he meant but they undressed each other and made love. After, he held her and quietly kissed her hair.

“You said you’d never get tired of it,” he said. She giggled. “Of me?”

“I might get tired of you,” she teased, “but I meant this,” she ran her hands over his chest, “of what your training does for your bodies,” she kissed him. He smiled.

“Really?” He said. She shrugged.

“When I was sixteen, at Pantona,” she explained, “Tristan used to run, and he would get too hot, and inevitably disrobe to some extent.” He raised his eyebrows. “And I remember thinking I might mandate the uniform for male guards not have any shirts, just so I could look at all of you.” He laughed.

“Wouldn’t be particularly practical,” he pointed out and she giggled.

“No,” she sighed, “and everyone already gossips about me and the guards, I doubt such a change would go uncommented on.” He frowned.

“Have there been others?” He asked. “Besides me and Tristan?” She closed her eyes.

“No,” she said, “I’ve been friendly with some people, but no,” she stretched, cat like in her movements. “Despite what your uncle and some of the others think, I don’t take every man I blink at into my bed.” He nodded and threaded his fingers into hers. “Tristan, Harran, Eric, and now you.” He kissed her.

“I don’t know what I’ll tell him,” he whispered. She closed her eyes.

“Tristan and I are not nearly in a place where it’s his business,” she said. He kissed her again.

It was months and several cycles through missions and returns home, as Tristan banked a fire, settling in for a night after riding all day that they finally acknowledged it.

“Does she talk about the future?” Tristan asked. Seemingly out of nowhere. But Prior had learned that by the time his partner spoke, he’d usually had several version of the conversation in his mind.

“No,” Prior said softly. “Honestly, I expect every time we return to Dovetail that she’ll have moved on completely.” Tristan smirked at that.

“She won’t,” he said, “it isn’t her nature.” Prior swallowed and large sip of water. “I only ask because,” he shook his head. “People are going to talk, about you, about your ambition, about how worthy or not you are. And you can walk away from that, but she can’t.” Prior looked at him.

“What happened between you two?” He managed. Tristan looked at him. “Really.” Tristan shruggedd.

“We were young. We were in love with each other,” he said softly. “And it wasn’t enough. For anyone. For the council, for me, for her, for Marina, for the gods. So it couldn’t hold. I miss her,” he said softly. “But being near each other isn’t good for us. We’ve tried, a few times, and it hurts too much.” Prior looked at him. “And Carolina doesn’t like it.” Prior laughed at that.

“Your wife’s reservoir of patience is endless,” Prior said. Tristan laughed.

“It really isn’t,” he said. “But it is deep. And I’d never want to reach it’s bottom. Her father learned that lesson the hard way.” He shook his head. “But be careful.”

“I wouldn’t hurt her,” Prior said. Tristan laughed. “I see she’s more fragile than most realize, but I wouldn’t,” Tristan shook his head.

“Lisette is perhaps softer than people realize,” Tristan said, “but she isn’t fragile. And I’m not worried you’ll hurt her, my friend.” Prior looked at him. “I’m very worried you’ll get hurt.” Prior looked at him. “I loved her, and still love her, with everything in me. But she can’t give her whole self to any man, and don’t expect it of her.”

He’d meant to bring it up the next time the were together. Tristan’s concerns, what she wanted from him, from them. But instead, he saw her carrying so much weight, and refused to add to it. He instead relished the moment she let go, since it came while he wrapped his arms around her from behind, slid her braided hair of her neck and kissed it gently.

No, he couldn’t think about their future, about what it all meant, when all that mattered was after so long, wishing she would even look at him, she was in his arms. It was enough.

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Interlude: Second Chances

Raymond

I’d been ignoring him. I’d forced him to come here and I’d dived so deeply into life here, I didn’t know as he slipped away, that he didn’t fit, didn’t belong.

It was my fault that everything would fall apart.

“You shouldn’t punish yourself,” Eric said, “we all trusted each other and you had no reason to believe Randolph wasn’t honest with you.” I nodded, but I didn’t hear him. “Talk to me, tell me what’s going on in that head of yours.”

“What if I’m wrong?” I said. “What if everyone here is wrong and everyone at home is right, and I’m broken and dangerous and,” he exhaled. “She’s calling to me Eric. Amina, and right now, what she’s offering me is tempting.” He nodded.

“I can’t make you feel like you aren’t broken,” Eric said, “I certainly can’t stop you from going to Amina, I don’t have nearly the power,” Raymond looked at him. “But I’d miss you, Ray, I’d miss you terribly.” He swallowed. I stood up and we stood in silence for a while before I walked back into the palace. I wanted to talk to Marina, to explain himself but she wasn’t anywhere.

“Sir Raymond?” I swallowed and looked at Evan Allred standing behind me. He joined us on the ride down from Dovetail. He looks like a lot of the midlanders, pink skinned and freckled and hair somewhere between red and brown. He was ostensibly supposed to be courting Annalise, but I’m not one hundred percent sure she even knows his name. “Are you alright?”

He’s also my age, and enrolling in the university when we go back to Dovetail as well, so we’ve been talking quite a bit.

“Hi,” I stumbled. He smiled. “I um,” I exhaled, “I think I will be.” He nodded. “You?” He shrugged.

“My father is going to be overly pleased,” he sighed and ran his hands through his hair, “if it gets you lot gone.” I laughed. “I’m waiting to tell him of course that it’s hopeless and I couldn’t be,” he cleared his throat, “I mean, she couldn’t be less interested in me, regardless of The Prince.” I looked at him. “Are you going home?”

“No,” my throat was dry. “No, I’m staying.” I looked down. “They won’t want me at home.” He frowned at me.

“Well, then they’re incredibly stupid,” he said, “who wouldn’t want you?” I really hope my eyes weren’t actually the size of my entire face because they certainly felt it.

“I um,” I swallowed, “ah, thank you?” He nodded and walked away, his face flushed. After another talk with Athena where she hugged me, which felt baffling. And then in my continued desire to find Athena, instead I found Randolph.

“You could have just told me you were unhappy,” I said walking up to him. He stared at me.

“When?” He shrugged. “Between mapmaking with the witch and your social calendar,”

“I wanted you to be a part of all of that,” I said, “I thought that was why we came here, instead of staying,” I exhaled. He took my hand.

“I thought that too,” he said, “but I don’t want that life anymore and I couldn’t,” he choked. I nodded. “I miss home, Ray, don’t you?” I blinked oddly at him.

“No,” I said, “no I don’t, at all. Well, except maybe my nieces.” He laughed and kissed me. I knew it would be the last time. “You don’t think you’ll what you’re looking for back home,” I whispered as our foreheads touched.

“Maybe not,” he said, “but I’ll know who I am, and can you say the same?” I frowned. I tried to think about how Marina or Annalise would answer that. Squaring her shoulders and ranting about The Goddess and being the most beautiful woman alive. Annalise is a Queen and that question is answered.

For once my cousins were not exactly the best models. Instead we just squeezed hands and he walked down towards the beach and walked inside. Marina walked over to me and smiled gently.

“Don’t do that,” I said. She sighed. “Athena’s being nice to me, it’s weird.”

“Before Brayton fell, Athena’s fiance told Brayton where resistance camp was and outlined some of the main hierarchy of the leadership and it lead to Martin being banished and running for his life,” she explained. “So I think she understands how you’re feeling right now.” I stared at her. “And I am sorry, Raymond.”

“I know,” I sighed. “But please don’t pity me.” She frowned.

“I’m not pitying you,” she laced her arm through mine, “I’m concerned, I care about you. It’s different.” I looked at her. “And I’m not the only one.” She nodded to Evan, who was animatedly discussing something with one of the sisters. I blinked.

“He’s, we’re, I’m,” I stuttered, “it’s not like that.” I managed. She shrugged.

“He likes you,” she said, “I’m not a particularly gifted aura reader, Lisette is better at it, but that’s patently obvious. He tries to hide it because he knew about you and Randolph. But I have a feeling things will become more plain now.”

“Maybe I’m not ready,” I said and shrugged. She smiled.

“Then you aren’t,” she said, “but just know that there are more people who care about you than you realize.” I smiled.

I came here to make a new life. I thought with him. But new does mean change. I guess I can be ready for that.

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