As much as I wanted to ask who Samuel was, Vera didn't seem willing to give me the chance.

A cynical part of me, the one that viewed everything though the jaded glass of paranoia, wondered if this was some kind of ruse by the First Knight. She had lied to me before, her and Annabelle both. If they had their way I would be wandering through Dunhold on the verge of death, if not already gone to the Great Spirit's embrace. But the look in Vera's eyes, the sudden shift in Annabelle's personality, the fear that permeated them. If this was an act then it was a pretty fucking convincing one.

“Orin?” Elora looked to me with Tessa following suit, both waiting on my decision, my word.

Alden seemed invigorated by the sudden need to see Gida and Julian, some of the exhaustion from our brief scuffle falling away as he looked once again towards Tess. I could see something in his eyes. A regret that was nearly as palpable as the First Knight's fears, as well as confusion, almost as if he were seeing Tessa for the first time. My own anger had burned down to a simmer, dampened by events transpiring around us, but it was far from gone. Alden and I would be having a talk very soon, this I knew to be true. I eagerly awaited it.

“We follow,” I nodded to my Smiths, both looking just as taken aback by Vera and Annabelle's urgency as I was, “Think we need to.”

Tessa grimaced, “We'll need to be quick then. You can't Bond us both for long.”

I nodded, reflecting her expression with one of my own. Tessa and I had only Bonded a handful of times over the past few days, just to get used to the feeling of it. It was undeniably different from Bonding with Elora. As people, the two girls couldn't be further apart in terms of personality and I could feel that through our connection. Elora was stable. There was a kindness and relief that came from joining with her, a sense of calm, that I could scarcely describe. Tessa was like fire, she caused my blood to boil and energy to rush through my body, her savage nature shining through. She made me more aware, sharper. It was different, but both were equally addicting. I wondered whether that was the same for all pairings? Was the feeling of Bonding different from Smith to Smith?

The trouble came when I Bonded both of them at the same time. We had it attempted exactly once yesterday. As an Heir, it's something I should be able to do, though Tessa had made it clear that like anything else it wouldn't happen overnight. I had thought it would be easy and had partially dismissed her concerns. Having one of them Bonded to me was simple, so I assumed that two wouldn't be much harder. I was proved wrong almost immediately.

Tessa and Elora both turned to light, The Princess leaning against my chest while the mercenary was touching my arm. They sank into my chest, one after the other and I took a deep breath, closing my eyes as I focused myself.

I felt them flow into my inner soul and immediately the void began to shake. The black flames were diminished, as though the overflow of energy was too much for them to bear. Fire that once swam with fervour now flickered lazily. The rush of Bonding doubled and I felt the now familiar feeling of becoming stronger all the more intensely. For a moment it felt like my mind was spilt into three before snapping back into place, giving me mental whiplash as I exhaled explosively. The initial part of the Bonding was the worst part, but Tessa had assured me it would get better with time as I got used to the feeling of having two Smiths.

The strain was immense. It was like my soul was splitting in two, the feeling not unlike what I experienced when I had been attacked by Craven's corrupted fire, though to a much lesser degree. It was fine in the beginning, merely an odd niggling at the back of my mind, but I knew it would soon grow to the point that my soul couldn't keep the girls combined power contained and they would be forced to emerge, lest I actually be harmed.

I opened my eyes and nodded to Vera, who stared at me in abject fascination. She must have been as new to this Heir business as I myself was. Her time at the Hall ended long ago, before Imperial Princess Alice of Ingemar had attended.

“Try to keep up,” Vera repeated before she suddenly took off towards the market, moving under the influence of her Gift of Speed. Alden was a second behind and immediately tore down the already destroyed street after the First Knight.

“Lets see if we can catch them,” I murmured with a grin, reaching for the Storm.

Thought slowed my perceptions, worked by Elora through her Throne, as Tess began to throw Aurum into her Resonant Gift. I moved and shot off the steps of the orphanage, the stone beneath me exploding into shards. My foot touched the ground and I slipped. I fucking slipped, falling forwards onto my own face like a newborn who was learning to walk for the first time. Honestly, the analogy wasn't that dissimilar to reality.

I groaned and pushed myself to my feet, trying to ignore the open laughter of Tessa and the barely contained giggling of Elora as I got myself upright, “We should have practiced with this more.”

I turned to look at the damage my sudden burst of speed had done to the stairs. There was now a foot shaped crater in the steps, which had all but been reduced to rubble.

“Well, shit.” I grumbled, examining my handiwork and feeling my two Smiths look through my eye, their mirth easy for me to read through the Bonds. “You two should try this, it ain't as easy as it looks.”

“Oh, but you do make it look so easy, my Knight.” Elora laughed, her tear-filled eyes suddenly filling my vision.

“Fucking... right into the ground... I can't...” Tessa could barely speak, I received a lovely mental image of her doubled over, face red and hands clutching at splitting sides.

“Aye, you both are truly hilarious,” I snapped at my Smiths, though I couldn't stop the smallest of smiles from forming on my lips, “Let's try that again.”

I moved slower, taking it a step at a time as Tessa began to give me Storm. It was such an unusual feeling, so unlike that of Strength. Speed poured into my limbs and a distinctive tingling followed soon after. My muscles felt relaxed and unyielding. Much like a young sapling, I felt like I would bend but not break. Each step took me further and further from the orphanage, Elora's constant reinforcement of Thought giving me the means to keep up with my accelerating body. I moved to a slow run, then to a sprint. The houses blurred as they passed me by and I whooped into the air, temporarily forgetting the reason for this jaunt in my excitement. I was finally away from the orphanage courtyard. Beautiful and well conceived it may have been, but it had lost much of its allure due to the scorched earth from Tessa's impromptu storm. I felt free in a way I never had before and the girls resonated with my emotion, mirroring it with their own.

I looked into my soul, keeping an ever watchful eye on its condition. The flames danced slower than usual, but silver sparks still fell free from the tips of those obsidian tongues. The newest addition was also present as bolts of lightning appeared periodically in the black of my soul fire. Great and blinding, they streaked through the absent air, lighting up the depths of the dark in a blaze of azure light before disappearing just as fast. I had found myself staring at my newest Element often over the last few days, watching to see it interact with Space and Darkness. I was half expecting the three of them not to get along, or their presences at least, but that didn't seem to be the case. I had yet to actively try and reach out to the Dark again, nor had I even attempted Lightning. Space could fuck off for the time being, given its danger to myself and my Smiths through my own lack of understanding. I wanted to wield its power but I wasn't going to be an idiot about it. My latest failure to stay upright told me that I still lacked when it came to the fundamentals of Knighthood. Best to get them down before I started playing with the Elemental superpowers that made up reality.

I nearly tripped again and cursed as I stumbled but managed to regain my footing. I could see the people around me as indistinct smears,.

We reached the market in rapid time and I was thankful for the lack of the crowds that would arrive in the afternoon. I was getting the hang of my new Gift, but I really didn't want to test it out on a busy street in the Commons. I found myself wondering what would happen if I ran into someone. Would they just be eviscerated? It wasn't exactly a comforting thought especially when considering I had planted my head in the dirt with my first real attempt. I made myself a promise to train Storm as vigorously as I could.

I zipped up the Old Road, focusing on maintaining my pace. I had been on the move now for only about five or six minutes, but already I could feel the increased trembling from my soul, the irritation rising to become actual pain. The girls felt it and both sent a flutter of concern over their respective Bonds, which I responded with by sending them determination. Being uncomfortable was kinda my bread and butter, if I didn't put the work in then nothing would change.

I passed a rather windswept looking guard at the inner city gates, his helmet askew and eyes wide with confusion. I flashed him a grin and a mock salute as I shot by.

“Alden and Vera are up ahead.” Elora voice whispered into my mind as I spotted the two Knights at the exit of the inner city square. They had slowed to a stop and were waiting for me. I planted my feet and slid across the ground, Elora giving me Strength to slow myself even as Tessa let go of Storm. I managed to come to a stop without falling over and making a fool of myself, which I counted as a tremendous success. I immediately put my hands on my knees, arms heavy and breath heavier.

The girls emerged from my chest not two seconds after I had stopped. I felt Tessa's hands grab my left arm as Elora did the same with my right. The two helping to keep me standing even as my vision swam.

“That was nearly thirteen minutes. You're improving,” Tessa grinned at me as I returned it with one of my own.

“I'm glad someone kept count,” I replied with a sigh, my muscles feeling like I'd just had the shit kicked out of me in training, “Why'd we stop here, Vera? Palace is a little ways up the road.”

Vera and Alden were both watching me, the latter looking red-faced and more than a little exhausted for the journey, while the First Knight remained her usual unflappable self. Vera was taking in my condition with no small amount of concern, but the expression disappeared as soon as I caught sight of her looking, “The palace has Inscribed defences for the specific purpose of fighting Knights. Approaching at Speed while Bonded might cause them to view us as a threat. We'd best walk from here.”

“Fine,” I replied as Tessa and Elora flanked me.

Alden and Vera's chests both glowed with inner light as their Smiths emerged. Annabelle looked just as harried as she did during the Bonding and was already walking before being fully formed, with Vera hurrying to keep up. The dark-skinned scholar that was Alden's Smith immediately took a step behind his Knight after his formation, his gaze cast aside and refusing to meet mine.

“Sir Orin, Lady Tessaraina, Princess Elora, this is Deirdric of House Winder. I have the honour to call him my Smith,” Alden replied with a stiff bow, which Deirdric copied a moment later, a hint of a smile on the tall man's face as his gaze flickered to Alden.

“As much as we would like to get to know you both, we'd best catch up with the First Knight and Smith. They do not seem of a mind to wait for us,” Elora replied before walking past the two men, ignoring them utterly, as Tessa and I were quick to fall in beside her.

“So who do you think this Samuel is?” I asked my Smiths as Alden and Deirdric fell in behind us.

Tessa grimaced, “No idea. I'm not exactly in the know when it comes to the inner workings of the Hall. Who knows who the fucker is.”

“Given Vera and Annabelle's reaction, someone dangerous would be the best guess,” Elora mused as she slid her arm around mine, “And someone they fear is not a person we should take lightly. The Hall knows what my mother is capable of, what Vera is capable of. If they know that then the agent they send to get us must be at least their equal in combat. Perhaps even better.”

“It's hard to imagine someone more dangerous than your mother,” Flashes of death, winged and black, filled my mind.

“But they do exist,” Tessa grimaced, “My father could give Elora's mother a run for her money in terms of power. At least, from what I remember.”

“Your father's a Knight? I just assumed that he was a Smith.” From the way Tess talked about her House it seemed like being one was a step up from being a Knight, especially when you consider that their Smiths were among the first to Bond to an Heir.

“He is, my mother is his Smith,” Tessa replied, “There were no Smiths in our family when my father was growing up. The last before my brother's birth was my grandfather and he was Bonded to an Heir by the name of Count Verdun.”

“Count Verdun? I've never heard the name before.”

“I have,” Elora said excitedly, “Count Verdun was known as the Hero of the Duchies. He saved thousands at the battle of the Three Cities by defeating Abdur of the High Hill in single combat.”

“Oh, that does ring a bell,” I said musingly, “Though, I never heard anything about him having more than one Smith.”

“The Hall is good at hiding it,” Tessa grumbled, “They've had a lot of practice. I can understand why you'd think my father was a Smith though. If they're not Bonded to an Heir then they usually become the family head. It can't be Tristan or me now, though, so it''ll have to be Lilian, since she's the oldest.”

“Your brother is doing well, my Lady,” Alden said with the smallest of smiles as he interrupted, Deirdric throwing him a look like he was insane, “Deirdric and I met him only a few months ago. He told us that he loves living in Ionostrum and has built a good life for himself there, even found himself a woman in the Imperial Court, apparently. He and Princess Alice had forged a tight Bond. Your father received reports saying that they are currently at the top of their class in every subject, including combative arts”

“That's nice,” Tessa replied coldly, “I'm glad he's had a happy life without worry.”

I could feel the tension rising in my Smith and so I placed a hand on her lower back. It was pretty incredible the effect a small touch could have on Tess. She immediately calmed down, eyes closing as she took a deep breath.

I knew about Tessa's brother, though only the barest amount. The Princess and I had assumed that one of her relatives was Bonded to Alice. Elora brought it up with her, the burning question that both of us had wanted to ask. She told us that her brother had been sent to Ionostrum only a few months before she had been packed off to come to me in Venos. Tristan was a sore spot for her and it wasn't one I was willing to press on, since it really wasn't an immediate concern. She could talk to me about it whenever she wanted but I wouldn't push, not with this. Bonded we may be, but I couldn't undo a lifetime of isolation and pain with one action alone. It was a slow process, but we were getting there. I did have another question though, one which would hopefully put the loaded subject of Tess' brother on hold for the minute.

“How does the Hall hide the Heirs? They have them with other pairs, right? You can't tell me that nobody notices Alice wandering around with five Smiths.”

“No,” Tessa shook her head as Elora and I returned our attention to her, “Their class and all who interact with them swear oaths that are reinforced with Inscription. They can only talk about Heirs with those who already know, though it is imperfect and there are ways around it. When news of an Heir spreads, the Hall works to make sure it disappears. They've been pretty successful at it for a thousand years. Plus, there is the natural defence.”

I nodded, Tessa having told me about this. Anyone who looked at an Heir would not be able to tell that they were anything other than an ordinary Knight. If anyone looked at me, for instance, they wouldn't be able to tell I was anything other than Dark attuned. They would be unable to sense the lightning within me, which I was glad for. It at least meant I was safe from a cursory inspection, though if they looked deeper they would discover I had more than one Bond. Thankfully, that wasn't likely to happen and I would be able to sense and resist it if it did. If I managed to reject a ritual specifically designed to remove my Bond with Elora, then I should be able to deal with some curious Smith or Knight.

“Sir Alden, can you tell us more about this Samuel?” Elora asked the man walking behind us, whose gaze had dropped bitterly upon Tessa's biting response.

“I think it would be best to wait until we reach the palace, your Highness. The King and Queen no doubt know more about him than I,” Alden looked guarded and wary, “I can say that your intuition is correct: Samuel is dangerous.”

“I see,” Elora frowned but said nothing more, focusing once more on the backs of Vera and Annabelle.

The last leg to the palace was a blessedly short one and the royal guard on duty all but fell over themselves to bow before Vera and Annabelle, which was followed by borderline apoplexy when they caught sight of Elora, each of the two soldiers stationed taking the knee before her Highness, the Princess of Venos.

Words were exchanged and the gates were opened, leading us into the wondrous royal gardens. Beautiful they may have been, but I couldn't help but look at my surroundings in a new light, considering the time I had spent in the palace. One of the guard charged off at a ferocious pace down the white stone path, no doubt to let the King, Queen and every other official they knew of know that Elora had returned.

Speaking of the Princess, I felt her shiver slightly against my arm and turned to her with a raised brow, squeezing her hand gently.

“This will be the first time I've seen my parents since Paldrum,” Elora whispered to me, her nervousness plain to see, “That didn't exactly end well.”

“I know,” I responded with a smile, “But I'm right here if you need help. Don't worry, I'm sure they'll be happy to see you.”

“I'm not worried about that, Orin,” Elora sighed, “I know my father told you they wouldn't try the Severance again, but I worry that my mother isn't beneath trying something. She did it before.”

“She can try,” Tessa snorted in derision, “But it would fail again. Your Bond with Orin is even greater than it was during the ritual. I doubt something like that would even tickle your Bond now.”

Elora let out a small brief of relief. I looked thankfully at the mercenary, her words having soothed at least some of the Princess' worry. Tessa turned red at my attention and looked away with a sniff.

“Sir Orin!” A call came from ahead of us, a distinctive voice I would know anywhere. I looked to the palace entrance, catching sight of a banner of red hair as it flew towards me.

The common maid, Beatrice, was nearly tripping over herself as she approached. She hadn't changed a bit and for that I was thankful. She obviously still retained her position, being dressed as she was in the white and black of the palace maids. She had a large smile on her freckled face, one which seemed without end.

She skidded across the soft stone as she came to a stop, doing some kind of odd combination of curtsey and bow, almost as if she couldn't decide which she was supposed to do.

“I heard what happened in Dunhold, the whole palace is abuzz about your saving of the King and Queen. It's... It's...” Beatrice threw herself forward and hugged me. Her strength took me by surprise as she squeezed as tight as she could with her vice-like grip. I chuckled softly from crushed lungs as I awkwardly patted the young woman's back.

“Hey, Bea. I wanted to see you last time I were here, but I couldn't get a hold of you.”

“Yes!” Beatrice crowed cheerfully, “A few of the maids told me you were asking, I'm sorry I couldn't come. With everything that's been happening I've been...”

The young maid froze, her body still wrapped around mine. A growl filled the air, one which came from the savage Smith standing next to me. Tessa was glaring at Beatrice with blank and threatening eyes.

I looked to Elora to see her staring at the maid with raised brows, though she did have the hint of a smile on her face. Beatrice slowly backed away from me, almost as if she mistook Tessa and Elora to be predators out on the hunt.

“A-A thousand apologies, your Highness. I was just-”

“It's fine, Beatrice,” Elora grinned at the young woman, who didn't look the least bit calmed, “You have nothing to fear from touching Orin. We've managed to get past that. I understand my husband is quite the hero.”

Was that a subtle reminder I heard in Elora's voice? Was my Princess jealous again? No, I must've been imagining it.

“H-Husband?” Beatrice blinked at Elora before her eyes dropped to her arm, which was now firmly back on my own. I noticed her eyes widen and her face flush a deep scarlet. I was surprised by her reaction, but then realised that Elora and I being together was not really common knowledge. Even those who knew about the ancient Venosian tradition of marriage wouldn't have assumed we were together given the circumstances of our Bonding.

I smirked at my Princess, letting her know I knew exactly what she was doing to the poor maid. Elora blushed but smiled all the same, keeping her golden eyes fixed on Beatrice.

“I'm so sorry, Highness, Lord Protector,” Beatrice curtseyed to us both in turn. She looked quite a bit calmer than she usually did, though I knew her well enough to notice the subtle signs of familiar panic building in her eyes. She looked at Tessa and froze, the anxiety in her rising as she tried to think of what to say. I decided to jump in to save my former maid from any embarrassing attacks.

“Bea, this is Tessa , my greatest and oldest friend,” I said by way of introduction. Tess stuck out her chin as she looked down on the maid with her sharp eyes. Beatrice withered under that stare. In terms of temperament, the two women couldn't be further apart.

“I-It is an honour to meet you, miss,” Beatrice gushed, bowing once more to the mercenary, hands shaking slightly on her dress. I nudged Tessa and she rolled her eyes at me before nodding once to the maid in acknowledgement. Alden and Deirdric were quick to follow suit with the young maid, though I had lost sight of Vera and Annabelle, the pair having already walked inside the palace. I shrugged off their absence. I was in no rush to see the two of them and I very much doubted they would discuss anything without us present.

“So, how have you been, Bea? No problems after Elora and I left?” I asked as the maid began to lead us towards the entrance. I was pleased to note that the enthusiastic skip in her step hadn't diminished which gave me no small amount of relief.

“No, Lord,” Beatrice smiled as she walked, “I don't even think they realised I had anything to do with your escape.”

“That's good. How is palace life treating you? Gotten the hang of the job yet?”

Beatrice was only too happy to tell me of what she'd gotten up to in my absence, with many stories of the Nobles, maids and guards. She had been kept busy and settled into her role among the gentry with aplomb. She even had a man in her life, a young guard from a small Noble family named Maric. When she said that, I believe some of the tension left my Princess. I couldn't help but chuckle as I bent down to whisper in her ear.

“Jealous, Princess?” I asked as I watched Bea, who was continuing on with some tall tale about a Noblewoman's cat.

“She's adorable, Orin,” Elora murmured back, though I did note she didn't deny it, “She's more dangerous than any high-ranking Noble looking to make a name for herself. The man who has won her heart is lucky to have her.”

“He is,” I agreed, “But you are the real prize. I can't believe I managed to convince you to be with me. All it took was a few near death experiences too. A small price to pay.”

“Is that a fact?” Elora giggled, kissing me on the cheek firmly, seriously.

“It is,” I murmured, “Though, I quite enjoy you being jealous. You're fairly adorable yourself, you realise?”

Elora's cheeks reddened even further as she chuckled, “One day, my Knight, you're going to get angry at another man's eyes on me and I'll be quick to remind you of this.”

“Oh, I'm sure you will,” I smirked into the air, “But unfortunately I don't become adorable when I get jealous. Just violent. Though there is something to be said for the adorable sight of another man's skull bouncing off the floor.”

Tessa laughed at that and I joined her even as Elora rolled her eyes, “You both are so childish.”

“I suppose we are.”

We continued into the foyer of the palace. This was my second time here and yet the sheer size of the vaulted ceilings, grand tapestries and decorative weapons still managed to take me aback. The sheer size of it was intimidating and it was rare that one could say that about a fucking building. Beatrice led as to a small group that had gathered at the foot of the gold encrusted stairs that led into the palace proper.

I recognised one of the men as Duke Brynyar, Lord High Chamberlain of the House of Hymns. The man was a warrior, grizzled and battle-worn. Next to him stood a familiar face in Lord Yale, the Spymaster looking at ease, his face a mask of casual indifference. Beside the two men, Vera and Annabelle appeared to be yelling in hushed whispers.

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“We really should have told Embla where we were going,” Elora said suddenly as soon as she caught sight of the small gathering, “We did just kind of fly away without a word.”

I winced as I realised that I hadn't paid much mind to the recently returned Embla, nor the warriors she had accompany us to Laird's shop. It must have appeared like something terrible had happened, especially seeing as we left without telling them anything. After a moment, I could only shrug.

“Sister can tell Embla what happened. I'm sure they'll catch up to us eventually.”

I felt something over Tessa's Bond, a hesitance, an uncertainty. I turned to look at the mercenary who was standing slightly away from the Princess and I. Her expression was difficult to decipher, but I didn't need to know what she was thinking to know she wanted to talk, “Give me a minute.”

I separated from Elora, who followed Beatrice over to the most powerful men and women in her Kingdom, each bowing to her with a dignity that I doubt I'd ever be able to master.

“You alright?” I asked, concerned for the young woman.

Tess kicked at the marble with her feet, her dirty boots leaving muddy stains on the previously immaculate surface. My own footwear was having a similar effect on the stone. I would've bet a lot of gold on being the source of much fuming by the servants later that day.

“What I said to Alden, about Tristan having a happy life while I didn't. I hope that... Shit, I hope it doesn't make you think that I'd have rather been Bonded to Alice.”

An eyebrow shot up at that. My mind hadn't even gone near such a conclusion. Was that why Tess appeared so distressed? “You really believe I'd think that?”

Tessa shrugged, but still didn't look at me, “It's just... Fuck, this feelings shit is harder than fighting. I didn't have the best of lives, but I wouldn't change a thing. Even if I could go back, Orin, I'd choose you every time. I hope you know that.”

“Course I know that,” I growled and gave my Smith's hand a squeeze. “And as far as I'm concerned, I got the best D'viritazi.”

Tessa snorted, “You only know the one D'viritazi.”

I widened my eyes in disbelief, “Not true. I know Deirdric and that guy's an asshole.”

Tessa laughed, her eyes still aimed at the floor but I was glad to see at least some of the trepidation within her laid to rest.

“You'd hate living in a palace, anyway,” I grinned, “I know you too well.”

Tessa blinked, something changed in her eyes and the smile that appeared was softer, kinder. I didn't really know what to make of it.

“You really do.”

“I really do,” I finished, “Now come on. The Princess is dealing with the wolves without us. Lets see this done and figure out what the fuck is going on.”

Tess nodded delicately and allowed me to silently lead her over to the gathering, my free hand finding the small of Elora's back to let her know we'd arrived.

“We must speak with them immediately,” Vera insisted and not for the first time it seemed as Brynyar seemed to be already shaking his head.

“I really don't think it's a good idea to allow the Knight of the Princess and her Majesty in the same room.” The old warrior replied firmly, “I have a feeling that could only lead to disaster. I urge you to rethink this.”

“You have no say in who sees the King and Queen, Lord Brynyar,” Annabelle quipped frostily, “You overstep.”

Brynyar's face went blank, “No, Lady Annabelle, it is you who oversteps. First Knight and Smith you may be, but you are not the highest authority in this land. I have done as you asked and sent a messenger We will wait for her to return with their decision. That is the final say in the matter.”

“The Queen is only doing this because she's pissed at us,” Vera snapped. I found that very interesting.

“I hate to interrupt, my Lords and Ladies, but time really is of the essence.” Alden said, stepping up with Deirdric behind him in a silent show of support.

The Lord High Chamberlain turned his experienced eye to the duo, “The House of Hymns and the Kingdom of Venos welcomes you, messengers of the vaunted House D'viritazi. However, I bid you refrain from interfering in affairs of state.”

“Come now, Duke Brynyar, is that any way to treat our guests?” Yale said, his ever-present smile making me as alert of possible dangers as it usually did. “Your Highness, perhaps you could shed some light on this matter? Despite the urgency, the Ladies Vera and Annabelle seem to be unforthcoming with the reason for it.”

“We do so because the walls have ears, especially here,” Vera replied caustically, “You saw to that.”

Yale nodded, “Does this have something to do with the mysterious and magical thunderstorm that appeared over the Commons? I believe it was centred over your home, sir Orin. I was told it was the strangest thing. Disappeared as soon as it arrived, in fact. Or is it to do with the recent battle that took place between two Knights, right here in Myrin. Again, it seemed to take place at your orphanage, sir Orin. Most curious.”

Tessa grinned at Yale then and the Spymaster's eyes narrowed as they took in the young woman.

“Training with my Smiths, Lord Yale,” I said blankly, though I'm sure the Spymaster wouldn't believe me, I didn't want to give him any more insight into my life than I had to. As always, Yale's tone of voice, his dismissive assessments, caused my ire to rise, “We could demonstrate if you like?”

Tess stepped up beside me and the Spymaster tensed, with Brynyar following. Elora placed a placating hand on me as she spoke. “The matter truly is urgent, Duke Brynyar. I can vouch for the voracity of Vera and Annabelle's words. We must see the King and Queen. At once.”

Yale and Brynyar both exchanged a look, a crack appearing on the Spymaster's facade as the Lord Chamberlain's frown became all the more pronounced. The Spymaster spoke, “Of course, we would never dream of denying your Highness from seeing her parents. Saying that, perhaps it would be best for the Ragoran messengers to remain here. We have yet to vet these young gentlemen and allowing them to see the King and Queen without confirmation of their identity would be negligent.”

“I carry the emblem of the House I serve,” Alden spoke up, pulling the medallion containing the seal of D'viritazi from within his slightly charred tunic, “I'm sure you know this cannot be faked, bound and wrapped in Inscription that is impossible to forge.”

“Besides that,” Vera interrupted, “The Queen is hardly defenceless. Alden of Nian is well-trained, but he's hardly a match for her Majesty.”

“You see?” Elora insisted with a smile, “They are the ones who have brought the information that my parents must hear. Please, step aside.”

For a tense and pregnant moment the two men did nothing. I finally noticed the royal guard arrayed around the edges of the foyer, wrapped in sparkling plate with halberds in hand. I found myself tense despite the lack of danger. None of the men and women around me were Knights and so weren't a threat to any of us. Still, being detained by the royal guard would be something of an inconvenience. Not that Yale or Brynyar would dare set their men on Elora. Neither was that stupid, they knew they had no choice in the matter.

“So be it,” Duke Brynyar muttered, “Their Majesties are in the throne room. I will escort you.”

Elora beamed at the old man, which caused his frosty exterior to melt somewhat. I could understand why, her smile had melted my own heart on more than one occasion.

“Sir Orin, I must return to my duties,” Beatrice had sneaked up beside me, her eyes wide and unused to the company we now found ourselves in, “It was lovely to see you again, I hope your visit goes well.”

“Thanks, Bea,” I said fondly to the young maid, “We won't keep you. I'm sure I'll see you again before too long.”

The young woman smiled at me, the expression causing her adorable freckles to dance as she turned and bounced away, nearly falling before she righted herself once more. It had been good to see her again, good to confirm that she was alright and didn't suffer any consequences for helping Elora and I. I found myself meaning what I said. I remembered being irritated by the young maid's panicked exterior on more than one occasion. But the more time I spent in this place, the more I realised it was rare to find someone without some kind of agenda. Beatrice was one of the rare few who was just happy to have work, to keep busy. There was an innocence about her that reminded me of Delithia, a pure way of seeing the world.

I fell into step beside Brynyar and the others as we walked up the stairs. I had never been to the throne room, seat of power for the entire Kingdom. Shit, I don't even think I'd ever been in this part of the palace before, though that wasn't surprising considering the sheer size of the fucking place.

“Sir Orin,” Brynyar said, nodding his head as he finally acknowledged my presence.

“Lord Chamberlain,” I replied shortly, “I heard you sent people to my orphanage, to collect my wife while I was busy with the King.”

Brynyar didn't look taken aback by my accusation. In fact, it almost looked like he was expecting it. He didn't so much as grimace as he replied.

“I did. I believed it to be the right course of action at the time. The warrior in me was acting up. You have my apologies, I truly did it only with the best of intentions. Your... Smith showed me and my men the errors of my judgement.” The Duke turned to glance at Tessa, who was examining her surroundings with a disinterested eye, “Many of them came back with severe injuries.”

I left it at that, noticing that once Brynyar looked away, Tessa turned at me and winked, her lips peeling back into a feral grin that made me chuckle. One of a kind in every respect.

“Who are my parents meeting with, my Lord Chamberlain?” Elora asked, her hands folded across her waist as she spoke.

“Just catching up on recent events in the Kingdom, your Highness,” Brynyar replied, “Their Majesties have been gone for some time and much is needed to be done.”

We reached an open walkway, one which hung suspended over open air with a glorious view of the many flowers and trees of the gardens below. At the end of the small bridge was a pair of large doors, each covered with elaborate carvings of animals, battles and different landmarks of Venos. The central image portrayed a tired looking man on his knees, an expression of sheer bliss clear to all as he leaned on his sword and gazed up at three spires which towered over him. Even though it was on wood, they still had an incredible sense of power about them.

“Gilderbrand and the founding of Venos,” Elora whispered into my ear, “Those were a gift from the King of Fero, back during the time of my great-grandfather.”

I heard something then. It was strangely beautiful, ethereal, a voice singing in silky tones. My soul quivered at the sound, almost like it had heard it before. “Do you hear that?”

Tessa and Elora both looked at me, confused, “Hear what?”

I frowned and walked to the edge of the bridge, peering down over the lip as I sought out the source of the voice that seemed at once familiar and yet so foreign. Far beneath us lay the royal gardens. The boundless colours very nearly blinded me, but I located where the voice was coming from with almost no effort at all. It was almost as though I knew where to look.

A solitary bench of stone sat amidst trees of every shape and shade, crisp evergreen leaves sitting atop delicate branches. On this bench sat a woman of about Elora's age. She sang quietly to herself, her skin as pale as moonlight, her eyes a sky blue that bordered on white. She wore a tattered white dress, one which seemed frayed at the hem and her feet were without covering, digging into the soft dirt beneath her. She was combing her hair. A lustrous black river flowed from her head, so long that it lay in a small pile gathered at her feet. Her arms were bare and the limbs seemed fragile, as though they'd break under the smallest of pressures. In her hand was a comb the colour of blood with lines of bone running through it periodically. The strange girl kept on working, her motions sure and smooth as she sang.

“Shit, that hair would be a nightmare in a fight,” I said with a raised eyebrow, “Who is that, Elora? A Noble?”

The Princess and Tess came to the edge with me and peered down into the gardens below as I pointed out the young woman. Elora looked up at me after a moment, a confused expression on her face, one which was touched with concern. Tess followed a second later, her face a mirror of Elora's.

“Orin, there's no one there.” Elora said, her eyes darting between the bench and my face.

“What?,” I pointed again, but stopped myself before I could complete the motion. The bench was empty, with no sign of the delicate young girl who had occupied it only a moment ago. “Shit... where did she go?”

“Orin... your nose...” Tessa muttered, her hand coming up to wrap around my arm.

I reached up to touch my face, pulling my fingers away to reveal blood smeared on the tip, “Fuck. Maybe I was more affected by our Bonding than we thought.”

“Are you alright?” Elora closed in on me, taking position at my free arm.

“Yeah, I'm fine. I was just seeing things,” I chuckled softly, checking once again to see if the young woman had decided to make a reappearance but found the bench as devoid as it had always been. What the fuck was that? Was I hallucinating now? “Thought I saw someone for a second. Guess not.”

I walked on past my Smiths, shaking off the encounter and trying to ignore the worried looks they threw each other. I was just tired, had been for a while now. The fight and Bonding with both of my Smiths at once had begun to take its toll. I followed after the backs of our company, pushing the face of the young woman from my mind, relegating her to a waking dream. I was just seeing things.

“Let us through,” Vera snapped at the guard near the door. He was dressed in the livery of the Crown's personal protection force. Some claimed them to be the greatest warriors in the land and yet the man before me withered before the presence of the First Knight.

“Apologies, my Lady,” The guard began, “But their Majesties are-”

“Let us through, son. I know they asked not to be disturbed, but there is good reason for our intrusion.” Brynyar's voice had a calming effect on the soldier, who immediately saluted to the Chamberlain before he and his compatriot moved away from the ornate doors.

Vera and Annabelle stormed forwards, both throwing open the doors with little to no regard for the noise it would make as a great boom echoed out into the hall beyond. Given the reactions of the Duke and the Spymaster, the two of them had committed some kind of Noble faux pas, but it didn't stop the rest of us from following them inside.

The throne room was exactly how I imagined it would be. A marvel of marble, with pillars of the pearly white stone shooting up to a ceiling more than ten feet high.. The walls were awash with the opulence I had come to take for granted within the palace, with gaudy art and ancient weapons aplenty hanging from the walls. The place must've been large enough to have hundreds inside at a time. A length of red carpet ran from the entrance to the twin thrones of gold, silver and elaborately carved wood taken from the black forest to the east.

What caught my attention completely though was the wall behind the thrones. It was made of glass, a viewing area to what lay beyond: The bases of the three spires, glowing with a golden light that spilled into the seat of Venosian power, setting it alight. I had never been so close to them before and I felt awe rise inside me, matched by Tessa, Alden and Deirdric.

“What is the meaning of this?” The voice I knew well, but it was one that still haunted my uneasy dreams, one I wish I didn't have to hear again.

I focused on the two figures sitting on the thrones, a small gathering of elaborately dressed men and women standing before them. The one of the right I recognised as the unassuming Venosian King Julian, He stared at me with surprise on his face and I noticed a flicker of panic as he looked towards his wife. He looked much the same way as he did during my first visit, though this time a simple crown of gold adorned his brow.

Where Julian's presence was warm and inviting, Gida's could only be called the opposite. The only way I could tell she was Elora's mother at all was the golden eyes that immediately fixed on me, a quiet rage bubbling behind that gaze as I noticed her hands curl over the armrests of her throne. She wore a crown of silver instead of gold and a dress of the deepest black. She embodied power and the need to destroy. I returned her stare with one just as ferocious, just as rage-filled. She had no right to be angry with me. While she may be able to destroy me with but a thought, I'd be damned if I grovelled before the crazy bitch.

“Apologies, my Queen, my King, but this could not wait,” Annabelle was quick to answer Gida's words, bowing before her monarchs with a harried grace, “We must speak with you. It is imperative.”

Gida said nothing in response, merely scanning all of us in turn. Vera, Alden and Deirdric all followed suit and bowed before the mighty Knight and Smith pairing of Venos. Only Elora, Tessa and I did not. I'm sure our reasons varied, but my own was simple. They'd have to cut my fucking legs off to get me to bow to the woman who had tried to take what was mine.

My soul burned cold, near silent as it fumed with a quiet anger that filled my body. I wouldn't let it control me, but neither did I plan on hiding it completely. Gida held my gaze longer than anyone else before she moved to her daughter. The change was immediate, her gaze softened and her lips curled up by the barest amount as she shifted in her oversized chair.

“Leave us,” Julian intoned and the gaggle of Nobles at their feet immediately left the way we'd just arrived, bowing and scraping all the while.

The wait for them to vacate was an agonising one. I shot a glance at Tessa to see how she was holding up, discovering that my Smith, as usual, couldn't give a single fuck about our current location. Elora was quite the same, though she stared at both of her parents with cold eyes. The facade was a good one, but I could read her anxiety over the Bond and gave her hand a subtle squeeze of support which she returned without looking away.

The doors boomed shut behind us before Vera began her slow approach. I remained at the back of the formation, keeping close to Tess and Elora. Despite the promises of the King, I was still leery about dropping my guard before the Queen. If she so much as twitched towards Julian, I would grab my Smiths and get the fuck out.

“My Queen, my King,” Vera bowed deeply and held the position for a full three seconds before rising once more, “May I present Alden of Nian and Deirdric of House Winder. They are messengers I encountered while on assignment at the Dunholdian border. They carry a missive from the honourable Mastan D'viritazi of Ragora.”

The two monarchs twitched. Julian became worried and Gida's eyebrow began to move involuntarily. Tessa's family had considerable clout with the Hall and had a great amount of influence over the entire continent as a result. Their power wasn't one which could directly threaten the Kingdom, but the wrong word in the right ear could cause some considerably large problems for Venos.

“The Crown welcomes the honoured gentlemen of Ragora,” Julian began warily after exchanging a look with his wife, “I see you have reunited with your Lady Tessaraina. A great day indeed.”

“Thank you, your Majesty,” It wasn't Alden who began this time, but his Smith Deirdric, “We apologise once again for the intrusion but our time is short. The Hall is aware of the fact that an Heir is in Venos. It is only a matter of time until they arrive.”

“We know of this,” Gida began, her implacable gaze finally leaving Elora and I to focus on the Smith, “Preparations are underway for their arrival. We expect to receive them within the month.”

“Didn't think Elora and I needed to know that?” I said before I could stop myself, my irritation with the Queen rising by the moment, “Could've used the heads up that someone was coming to kill us.”

“You knowing would've made no difference, Orin of Myrin,” Gida all but spat at me while keeping her face perfectly even, “Besides, the Hall has no intention of killing you. We believe that they wish to bring you and Elora back to the Hall for training.”

“May I ask how you have reached this conclusion, your Majesty?” Alden asked plainly, his frown and disbelief clear to see.

“It's simple. An Heir like Orin has never been seen before. If what I suspect about him is indeed true,” Julian peered at me with curious eyes and a smile on his lips.

He knew. Somehow he knew that I wasn't related to the First Knight. That was I original much like the man himself. But how could he know that?

“Do not look surprised, Orin,” Julian said with a gentle shake of his head, “Your Sister Erin was quite thorough with erasing any trace of your existence, but our Spymaster is persistent and discovered a few threads which led us to part of the truth. It is my belief that the Hall wishes to train you alongside Princess Alice. I doubt very much that they would throw away such a resource.”

“They are sending Samuel.” Vera said, the frustration on her face clear to see. “If they wanted to negotiate, if they wanted Orin alive, why would they send him?”

The effect the name had on the King and Queen was a touch more muted than on Annabelle and Vera but it was noticeable all the same. A slight tremble made its way through the King's hand even as Gida's jaw tightened beneath narrowed eyes.

“Samuel?” Gida whispered, her hand beginning to absently tapping on her throne, “Nonsense. They wouldn't dare.”

“They do indeed dare, your Majesties,” Alden said with a grimace, “Deirdric and I heard it from Mastan D'viritazi himself. The Hall has sent him to retrieve Orin. Dead or alive, my Lord does not know, but he was not included in the talks themselves. I very much doubt Samuel plans on negotiating when he arrives. He has the full authority of Tyra behind him and will burn Myrin to the ground to get his way. You know this, your Majesties, perhaps more than anyone.”

Gida and Julian fell silent, their hands reaching out and grabbing a hold of one another as they silently conversed within the safety of one another's minds.

“Mother, who is Samuel?” Elora said suddenly, yanking the King and Queen away from their conversation. “Vera and Annabelle clearly fear him, as do you and father. What kind of man is he?”

The Queen's eyes widened, as though she was not expecting her daughter to address her. She tried to smile at the Princess, though it looked strangely pained, like she hadn't had to perform the action much in the past. “Samuel is of no concern to you, Elora. You are safe here, within these walls. Have no fear.”

“You say that, but Vera and Annabelle are shitting themselves,” I said, pointing at the First Knight and Smith, “And given your reaction, you aren't exactly excited about this guy turning up. Maybe you should dispense with the bullshit and actually give us an answer.”

Gida's warm expression turned black as she turned her attention to me, “I have killed men and women for less, Orin of Myrin. I suggest you remain silent unless spoken to directly.”

“My Knight speaks true, mother,” Elora insisted taking a symbolic step forward, “We cannot face a threat if all we know about it is a name.”

“You do not face a man like Samuel, daughter” Julian interrupted with a grimace, “You run or you die. He is the Hall's executioner-”

“Julian!”

“-one who stops at nothing to see his goals achieved. Of all the scenarios we were contemplating, we did not once believe they would have the temerity to send such a creature as him. This changes everything.”

“It changes nothing,” Gida cut in, “We will protect Elora. She will be safe here in the palace.”

“With all due respect, my Queen, you know that isn't true,” Annabelle said carefully, weighing her words, “Vera and I would be of no help to you in that fight and your chances of victory are uncertain to say the least.”

“You doubt me, Annabelle?” Gida intoned, staring down upon the still bowing form of the First Smith.

“Never, your Majesty, but if you look into your heart you'll know that I speak the truth,” Annabelle shrugged almost helplessly, “You are a match for nearly every Knight in Ouros, my Queen, more than a match for most. Samuel is not one of them.”

The truth was a bitter pill for the Queen as she flinched away from her loyal servant, her hands curling into fists.

“I agree with the First Smith, your Majesty,” Brynyar stepped forward, his gaze heavy with despair as he gave his assent, “I knew the Saint and the Harlot better than most. They are dogged in their pursuits. If you fight Samuel, many will die.”

“The Saint and the Harlot. An old name. Not many would say that to their faces,” Deirdric whispered to Alden, though it resounded loud enough for all to hear, causing the young scholarly Smith to freeze.

“Once I would've been able to do just that,” Brynyar grimaced at the tall Ragoran, “But no longer.”

“I assume your master has a plan of some kind, Lord Deirdric?” Julian said, leaning forward in his throne, “I do not think he would tell us this grim news only to throw us to the wolves.”

“He does, your Majesty,” Deirdric replied, getting over his embarrassment quickly, “He wishes for Orin to come back to Ragora with us. There he will be safe. Powerful as Samuel is, he is sworn to serve the Hall and would have to kill Mastan D'viritazi to get to Orin.”

“Clever.” Brynyar muttered. The King nodded for the Duke to continue speaking and Brynyar took a breath as permission was given, “Samuel, like all those who serve the Hall, is bound by oaths which forbid him from killing members of the council. Especially so when applied to members of the Five Houses. He would be unable to take Orin away from Mastan. He would never dare attack the D'viritazi.”

“Well, that is rich,” Gida snarled into the air, “The only solution to our problem is to hand over Orin to the D'viritazi? And Mastan sends a Knight barely graduated from the Hall to deliver this news? This is a farce.”

“Your Majesty, I assure you that we have no ulterior motive,” Alden insisted, “We were sent because we are loyal to our House and because I myself was the one who delivered my Lady Tessaraina to Myrin when she was a girl. I swear to you, all we have said is true.”

“Yet another confession!” Gida shouted, “One of the Five Houses has been operating in our Kingdom for nigh on a decade and yet we are to grovel and thank you for saving our lives? Foolishness. Take Orin if you must, but I'll be damned if I let my daughter out of this city. Elora stays here.”

“That will not happen, Mother.” Elora stated, “If Orin and my sister-Smith go then I will follow. You cannot stop me.”

“I can and I will,” Gida barked, climbing to her feet, “You are barely more than a child and-”

“Gida!” Julian hissed at the Queen and she stopped. Her rage fell away as she sank back down onto her throne. Her expression seemed shameful and more than a little damning.

“...My wife is right,” Julian said slowly, “I'll not allow our daughter to leave Myrin. Orin may go, but he cannot take Elora with him.”

“I'm not leaving without her,” I said instantly, taking her hand in mine.

Julian smiled gently, “I would expect nothing less.”

“Father-”

“I know, Elora,” The King spoke kindly, “But I cannot do it. I would be sending you into a situation I know nothing about with no form of protection beyond your own Knight. Orin is formidable, but what if something were to happen on the journey? We cannot send an escort with you without alerting Samuel and anything we do send would be no match for him. Please, try to understand.”

“Your father is right, Elora,” Gida muttered, much quieter than before, “We must protect you at any cost. Even if Samuel does come here, you have a better chance in Myrin by our side than out there in the open.”

“Your Majesties, please reconsider,” Brynyar spoke up, “If the Princess stays and Samuel takes her than he will-”

“We are aware what the consequences are,” Gida said, her expression blank, “But Samuel will have to destroy Venos to take Elora from us.”

“That's what I'm afraid of!”

“I believe we have a solution,” Vera said suddenly, looking to her Smith who nodded to her firmly, resolutely, “You say you cannot send Elora with a full escort and I agree. Annabelle and I will accompany Orin and the Princess.”

Quiet followed Vera's words.

“You are no match for Samuel, Vera,” Julian stated.

Vera nodded grimly, “I am aware of my limitations, your Majesty. Thankfully, in the case of an attack, Annabelle and I don't have to win, just delay.”

“We are Masters, your Majesties,” Annabelle stared into the eyes of her two Monarchs, “Samuel will kill us, but we can make him pay for every second. Enough to buy some time for Orin and his Smiths to escape, if it comes to that.”

Gida's eyes widened, as did Julian's. The Queen opened her mouth to speak, to protest, but she was cut off by Vera before she could start.

“I can see the merit of them going to Ragora. It would save thousands of Venosian lives if Samuel's targets were not here upon arrival. Please, Gida, let us do this. Annabelle and I would give our lives for Elora. We won't fail again.”

They were speaking of the wedding and of our escape to Dunwellen. I could see it in their eyes. They were willing to put their lives on the line for my Princess. I agreed with Vera in many respects. I immediately thought about the Sister, about my family. If I was here when Samuel arrived then they could die. I had seen a glimpse of what a Master could do. If this man was stronger than the Queen, then leaving would the only option, for me and my Smiths. I didn't want to run away, I had always hated fleeing a fight, but if what these Masters were saying was true then there would be no battle, it would be a slaughter. Part of me felt sick that the reason such a monster was coming at all was because of me, because of my cursed power.

“No... I can't allow that,” Gida continued weakly, “We... we need time to confirm. This could be a ploy. Why would the Hall send Samuel? They have no reason to take things so far. Mastan just wants Orin. He can have him, but my daughter stays.”

“My Queen,” Annabelle pushed, “These men do not lie. You can see it, I know you can. If Mastan D'viritazi wanted to take Orin then he could've done so long ago, before we even realised he existed. Even if the worst comes to pass and this is some kind of betrayal, Vera and I are more than capable of dealing with it. Please, Gida, Julian. For the sake of all those who call Myrin home, I beg you. Let us do this.”

Silence once again followed Annabelle's words as Gida and Julian exchanged difficult looks filled with pain and distress, their hands clasped desperately.

“And you wish for this, Elora?” Gida asked finally, her words like nails in a coffin, “You wish to leave? To go with Orin?”

“I... I do, mother,” The Princess said softly, “If it will keep everyone safe, if we can avoid bloodshed, avoid pain. Do we not owe it to the people to try? I know you don't want me to leave, but if we're in danger here and everyone else is as a result, then we must go.”

Gida nodded twice, her eyes empty as she stared, the smallest of smiles on her face as she looked to her daughter. “It is not easy. To be a mother, to be a parent. I have failed at it more than once and will likely do so again. My instincts scream. They tell me this is a bad idea, a terrible one.”

“Mother-”

“But,” Gida cut the Princess off before she could finish, “But... I know what Samuel is capable of, know of the terrible things he has done. If there is a chance I can protect you from that, to move you from his path, then what mother would I be if I didn't take it? You have grown so tall, Elora. In more ways than one. Forgive this old woman for not seeing it sooner.”

The Queen sat back quietly, her eyes finding Julian's and nodding at him. The King cleared his throat as he rose to his feet, “Then... You may go. With our blessing. Keep her safe, First Knight.”

“What of Samuel?” Elora said, stepping towards the throne, gazing up at her parents, “He'll still come, he'll know you sent us away.”

Gida smiled down at her daughter and, just for a second, I saw Elora. In that genuine moment, she looked the spitting image of the Princess, “Oh, my dear heart. Have no fear for us. We will deal with Samuel. We cannot lie to him, but we will delay as long as we can. He will not kill us without cause. That is his way.”

“M-mother-”

“When do you leave?” Gida stopped the Princess, though her golden eyes looked at nothing else.

“Today, now. As soon as we're ready,” Alden's answer was immediate and the nod of assent from Vera and Annabelle confirmed it.

“The young Heir has no objections?” Julian asked with curious eyes, “Nor his second Smith?”

“None from me,”I said grimly, “If Samuel is as dangerous as you seem to believe he is, we'll save a lot of people by leaving.”

The King nodded approvingly before turning his stare to the mercenary standing beside me. She shrugged in response, “Where he goes, I go.”

“Then you all best be away,” Gida's voice cracked as she got to her feet. “Time waits for no one and we have precious little of it left.”

“Mother...” Elora said again more insistently this time.

“Hush now, dear one. See to your Knight and sister-Smith. Your father and I have preparations of our own to make,” Gida looked like she wanted to hug the young woman, but stopped herself just short of doing so, “Orin of Myrin,”

I met Gida's gaze and found something I did not expect. The rage, the anger, the hatred for my very being that had always been present was gone. In its place was desperation.

“Keep my daughter safe.” Gida whispered.

“Always.” I promised firmly. The Queen did not smile, but she did nod before turning away.

Julian walked up to the Princess and wrapped her trembling frame in his shaking arms. The King was red-eyed as he rested his head atop his daughter's, his hands rubbing her back and comforting her. “Orin told me of your wedding. I would've have loved to be there, to see you bound to the man you love. I am sorry you have been robbed of it.”

Elora sobbed as she returned her father's hug, resting her head against his chest as she did so. Gida stood awkwardly to the side, unable or unwilling to show the same level of affection as her husband.

“I would've liked that,” Elora muttered as she was rocked by her father, tears falling free from her honey-coloured stare.

A snort from Tess caught my attention. I turned to the mercenary just as she passed me by, grabbing a hold of the Princess' arm and dragging her free from the King's embrace. Elora could only yelp in surprise as her much stronger sister-Smith began to pull her towards the door, leaving a rather baffled looking Julian in her wake.

“Wait fifteen minutes and then follow after us. Bring the King and Queen!” Tessa shouted over her shoulder as Elora futilely tried to pull herself free.

“My Lady, we must leave now!” Alden cried after his ward as he tried to intercept her only for Tess to brush him aside.

“Fuck that, we can leave after,” Tessa grinned at the still confused Princess, “Besides, she already has the dress.”