Argo wasn't the prettiest, wealthiest or the smartest but she possessed a gentle heart and a beautiful smile. By no means was she the homeliest woman in the village, and she had a magic touch with washing clothing. Seemingly capable of removing the most stubborn stains.

Henla is widely considered one of the most beautiful women in the village. She's not as pretty as Amaras, but who is? But she is the daughter of the village blacksmith, a catch, so everyone agrees it's a good match when she marries Gerld, the headman's son.

The three years before Arlo is engaged to Metir find Henla pursuing a one sided war with the quiet Arlo. Why can't she be as kind as Arlo? Henla was polite in public but irritated that the daughter of a cooper would be considered more desirable than her. No one was as amazing as Amaras. Amaras knew her father's craft and was very good with her hands. Strong, smart, friendly and brave, she rose to nearly every challenge. Amaras was amazing, no doubt. No one else compares.

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Henla hadn't pursued her father's craft, or any, afraid of damaging her fair looks. Weaving? That would knot her back and her fingers! Cooking? And risk burns? Not on your life! Healing? What if she caught an illness while treating someone or some herb discoloured her fingers or she was disfigured while foraging in the woods? Are you mad?!

So, no, Henla wasn't the most beautiful. No, wasn't the most skilled. But she is the most vain. And to be compared to a washerwoman? How dare they! We'll see how wonderful she truly is.