Elix: Sci-Fi Romance (The Gladius Syndicate Book 2) by Emma James (22)

Aerdan frowned. “Friend, what do you wish to do?”

Baelan swallowed hard. He turned to the harbor. The sun was just beginning to rise over the calm waters of the Zhekan harbor, and the ships were gently bobbing up and down. A new idea struck Baelan – a dangerous, thrilling idea.

“I will take a ship,” Baelan said. “I will sail out and find her – I must.”

“Baelan,” Aerdan said reproachfully. “Those ships do not belong to you – they belong to my mother, the queen!”

“I do not care,” Baelan said, shaking his head defiantly. “I’ve learned all I need to know from weeks of being on board, and I do not care if I anger your mother. I cannot let Rillie go – I must find her!”

Aerdan stared at Baelan for a long time. “Well,” he said in a low voice. “If that is what you are determined to do, I will look the other way.”

Again, Baelan felt choked with emotion. He couldn’t imagine a better friend than Aerdan.

“Thank you,” Baelan said quietly. “And please, tell your mother that I am sorry.”

Chapter Eleven

Rillie

As Maeraria’s ship rocked back and forth in the waves, Rillie struggled to hold onto the walls. She gasped as the ship pitched violently to one side and she went hurtling across the small room before crashing into the opposite side. The pain was immediate but Rillie didn’t cry. She bit her lip and sniffled, rubbing her wounded thigh that had caught the worst of the impact.

Rillie had been with Maeraria and her men for a little over a week. Each new day brought horrors untold – just a few hours ago, Maeraria had told her that they were soon to be docking in Jhal. Although the idea of leaving the ship was tantalizing, Rillie was horrified to discover that each day meant moving further and further away from Zheka – and Baelan.

“Jhal is a prosperous place,” Maeraria had said, tossing her mane of dark hair over one scarred shoulder. “You should please me well.”

Rillie hadn’t replied. Some small part of her had begun to hope for mercy – after all, Maeraria was human, wasn’t she? She’d thought that perhaps after a few days as a captive, Maeraria would begin to warm to her. But if anything, Maeraria seemed more vicious than before. Rillie sensed that she was jealous. While Rillie could reduce a large crowd of boorish men to meek babes with just a few bars of a song, Maeraria relied on power and brute strength.

Flint had become the only man on the ship whom Rillie could speak to. It was odd, given how he’d threatened to drown her when they’d first met, but Rillie knew she couldn’t exactly be choosy about her companions. Flint had begun coming down to the hold of the ship every night with scraps of extra food for Rillie, and sometimes a word or two.

“By the gods, what kind of mess have I gotten myself into,” Rillie said out loud. The sound of her voice was almost strange to her. For a moment, the ship seemed to calm. Rillie put her face against the soaked, briny wood of the hold and closed her eyes, breathing in the smell of rot and salt. Her dress was hanging loosely on her body – despite Flint’s best attempts, she was losing weight at an alarming rate. Her teeth ached and while she hadn’t had the chance to see her own reflection since boarding Maeraria’s ship, she knew her hair was greasy and her face was pale and wan from spending so much time in the cargo hold.

“Rillie? Are you there?” Flint’s growly voice sounded from the other side of the door.

“Aye,” Rillie called back. She frowned – she didn’t like how her first reaction was happiness. She winced as Flint unbolted the door, for the iron bolt and lock was squeaky and the sound was shrill and painful.

Flint stepped inside with some food wrapped in a dirty piece of cloth. “Looks like a big storm ahead,” he said. “Maybe we won’t make it to Jhal.”

Thank the gods, Rillie thought. But she knew she couldn’t admit as much to Flint. Instead, she forced a smile. “Thank you for the food,” she said.

Flint nodded. He handed it over and Rillie was dismayed to see the rations were even more dismal than usual – one measly piece of salt pork and a piece of what she surmised to be bread, although it was rock hard and grey and lumpy. Nonetheless, Rillie began gnawing at the salt pork with her teeth, shredding it into small dry pieces and choking them down.

“Is there any water?” Rillie asked softly. “My throat is so dry.” She thought for a moment. “And if I do not have water, I won’t be able to sing.”

Flint laughed. “You’re a crafty one, aren’t you,” he said. There was a note of approval in his voice. He sighed and sat down, leaning against the damp boards. “I wish I could give you some water, Rillie, but Maeraria has forbid it. We are running low on our stores.”

Rillie nodded. She felt like crying. After forcing down the bit of salt pork, her mouth was so dry that it stung.

“But I have some, right here,” Flint continued. He passed Rillie a cedar flask. “Don’t drink it all,” he warned. “You’ll get sick and throw it back up again, and that won’t help either one of us.”

Rillie tried to be conscious of Flint’s warning but the cedar-scented water tasted fresh and sweet. She gulped a few greedy mouthfuls before passing the flask back over to the gingery man.

“Thank you,” Rillie said. Her stomach felt full and swollen. It seemed almost miraculous to Rillie that after such a short time, she was already accustomed to small meals.

“Forget what I said,” Flint said, leaning forward and smirking. “I’m sure we’ll make it to Jhal. There hasn’t been a storm yet that we’ve not been able to sail through.”

How lucky for me, Rillie thought. She nodded. “Aye,” she said. “I am sure Maeraria wouldn’t like the chance to forgo any money earned.”

For a moment, Flint looked stunned. Rillie wondered if he would slap her for her impertinence. But to her surprise, he burst out laughing. He threw his head back, exposing a mouthful of yellow teeth, and cackled, rubbing his belly.

“Aye, Rillie, that is too true,” Flint replied. He raised an eyebrow. “Perhaps it will be good for you.”

“What,” Rillie asked crossly. “Singing from dawn until dusk, for crowds of men that I’ve never seen before in my life? How could that possibly be good for me?”

Flint didn’t answer. He raised an eyebrow at her instead.

“What? No,” Rillie cried loudly. “I could never do that – I wouldn’t steal!”

In fact, she’d been thinking about doing just that. The previous few days, she’d sang on the docks of a small town. Men and women and children had gathered to see her. As usual, the men were spellbound. The women eyed her with a mixture of envy and pity, and the children flocked about, laughing and giggling. Maeraria had left her for hours at a time, but Rillie hadn’t stopped singing. And once, an old woman with yellowing, loose skin and no teeth had pressed a solid piece of silver into her hand, whispering what Rillie had taken to be a warning in a foreign tongue. But as soon as the men had escorted Rillie back to the hold of the ship, Maeraria had appeared and demanded the silver piece.

“I couldn’t,” Rillie said, shaking her head. “She…she knows, Flint. She sees things that no one else can see.”

“And yet, you have a strange talent,” Flint replied. He rubbed the gingery scruff on his chin and exhaled loudly, spitting on the floor.

Rillie tried not to make a face of disgust. “Aye, but she is not affected,” she replied. “It doesn’t matter what I sing – Maeraria won’t be taken under.”

Flint eyed her and narrowed his eyes, frowning. “Perhaps that is true,” he said slowly. “But still, it seems to me there could still be a way, could there not?”

Rillie shook her head. “I do not know what you mean,” she said honestly in a soft voice. “Flint, this is my destiny. This is…this is the life I have chosen.”

Flint laughed, but it wasn’t a happy sound. “Why did you do it,” he asked slowly. “Tell me, Rillie – why did you drive us away? You know, we likely would have let you go. As soon as we killed your friends, at least.

Rillie doubted that was true, but she declined to say so. “I had to,” she said. As she spoke, Baelan’s face flashed across her mind. “I didn’t have a choice.”

Flint laughed at this, too. But his laughter was harsh and knowing, the laughter of a man who has known nothing but a hard life. “Of course you had a choice,” he said. “You just made the wrong one!” He shook his head, as if in disbelief. “Rillie, you are young yet.” He leaned in close and lowered his voice. “And do not resign hope right now – you do not yet know where your path in life will take you.”

Flint’s breath was astonishing foul and Rillie struggled not to cringe as she listened to his words. It was strange – he looked like an unkempt heathen, how could he be so wise?

“It’s the truth,” Flint said. He looked satisfied with the advice that he’d given, and he leaned back and spat again, tossing his head arrogantly.

“What made you choose this life?”

Flint shrugged. “I was arrested for stealing,” he said, shaking his head and laughing. “And sent to the stocks. They gave me two choices – either rot in a prison cell or join Maeraria. The choice was easy,” he continued. “And now my life isn’t very difficult at all, save for the odd storm or two.” He chuckled. “And whatever ship you were on – wherever you were going – I’m quite sure those men know nothing about sailing.”

Rillie flushed. She knew Baelan and his friends were inexperienced sailors. Somehow, the news frightened her. What if Zheka abandons all naval plans, she thought as her heart began to thump in her chest. What if Baelan stays on shore forever, and I never see him again? Part of her was angry with Baelan – at the very least, he could’ve jumped into the sea and rescued her! But Rillie knew that wouldn’t have been possible. His captain would have disciplined him for that, perhaps even killed him. And then where would she be?

“Yes,” Rillie said stiffly. “It’s a very new navy.”

“And let me guess – you’ve got a man in it.”

Rillie blinked. She hadn’t expected to come across as so transparent.

Flint chuckled again. “You don’t need to say it,” he said, waving his hand in the air. He smirked at her and leaned back. “You’re too skinny for me, anyway,” he added. “And despite being a thief, I’m not a rapist.”

Rillie forced a smile. That didn’t exactly make her feel any better – just because Flint clung to some kind of notion as to what made a man good, that certainly didn’t mean anyone else on board Maeraria’s ship did as well.

Flint got to his feet and wiped his hands on his damp trousers. “I should be going,” he said. “I’m on deck all night.” He heaved a sigh. “Rillie, if you get a chance, you should look at the stars from the middle of the sea. It makes you feel like nothing else.”

Rillie pointed to the lock on the door. “I doubt I’ll get the chance,” she said drily. Then, remembering her manners, she added: “But thank you for the food. I appreciate you helping me. Without you, I’d likely be dead.”

Flint snickered. “You’re welcome,” he said. Then he closed the door behind him and bolted the lock.

Now that she was alone again, Rillie felt herself sinking into the same pit of gloom that she’d inhabited before Flint had shown up. He certainly wasn’t the most stimulating company she’d ever enjoyed, but even talking to a half-dead man would’ve been more palatable than sitting in the cargo hold of a pirate ship and staring at the walls.

Closing her eyes, Rillie curled up on the damp floor and hugged her knees to her chest. Maybe, in the morning, this will all have been a dream, she told herself as she began to feel lightheaded and drowsy. Maybe, in the morning, I’ll wake up and I’ll be with Baelan.

--

“Get up!”

Rillie groaned and struggled to open her eyes. Her limbs were sore and stiff and cold and she felt locked into place.

“You lazy wench! Get up!”

The sharp words made Rillie blink in confusion. When she felt a sharp cuff on her shoulder, she scrambled into a sitting position and closed her eyes.

Maeraria was standing there with her hands on her hips, glaring down at Rillie.

Oh, no, Rillie thought as her heart began to slam into her chest. Flint betrayed me! He told the captain what awful things I said about her!

But to her surprise, now that she was awake, Maeraria smiled down at her. It wasn’t a warm smile – and the sight of her teeth was a ghastly one – but Rillie was surprised all the same.

“I have a surprise for you,” Maeraria said. She gestured towards a small cedar trunk that had been set down next to Rillie’s sleeping figure.

Rillie didn’t move.

“Open it!” Maeraria said loudly. She frowned again and shook her head. “You’re a stupid one, aren’t you,” she added, narrowing her eyes and tapping her toe on the floorboards of the ship.

Rillie scrambled forward and fumbled at the latch of the trunk with weak, trembling fingers. When the lid was lifted, Rillie saw a variety of bright silks in a pile inside.

“It’s a gown,” Maeraria said. “And it’s for you.”

Rillie pulled the gown out of the trunk and glanced down at it. While it was much better than the now-tattered dress that she still wore, it was hard not to notice the gaudy, bright pattern. Stripes of cobalt and crimson adorned the skirt, and the bodice was a bright golden-yellow. Bright green and purple embroidered stars decorated the sleeves and Rillie noticed the neckline was astonishingly low.

“Excuse me,” Maeraria said. “Aren’t you going to thank me?”

“Oh, yes,” Rillie said. She sank into a lazy curtsey, dipping her face to hide her expression.

“And you will change into that dress, and wear it today,” Maeraria said. “For we have arrived at Jhal, and I expect you to do very well.”

Rillie nodded. She could feel that the ship was only rocking very gently in the waves, and now that she was alert and paying attention, Rillie could hear laughter and song from people. We must be at a very large harbor, she realized as she clutched the gaudy silk dress to her bosom.

“Hurry,” Maeraria said sharply. “It is already halfway through the day, and I wish to make as much coin as possible.”

Seeing that Maeraria wasn’t about to leave her in privacy, Rillie turned her back and shed her soiled dress. She desperately wished for a basin of hot water in which to bathe or even a comb for her greasy hair. But she pulled the silks on without complaint, fumbling at the tight laces that secured the bodice.

“Not very pretty, but it will have to do,” Maeraria said. She reached forward and grabbed a hank of Rillie’s hair, twisting it painfully away from her head. Rillie winced in pain and tears came to her eyes but she didn’t protest as Maeraria twisted her hair into a complicated knot at the top of her head.

“Now, wash that grime off your cheeks and I’d say you’re presentable,” Maeraria said. She stepped back, obviously pleased with her handiwork.

Rillie forced a smile. Her head was throbbing from Maeraria’s indelicate touch, and she could barely breathe in the tight gown – it had evidently been sewn for someone much smaller than she – but she knew she didn’t have a choice.

“Ma’am?”

Maeraria turned around. “Yes, wench?”

Rillie lifted the hem of her gown and showed her bare feet.

Maeraria grinned viciously. “You have no need for shoes or slippers,” she said, tossing her mane of black hair. “As you shan’t be going very far.”

Rillie’s heart sank. As Maeraria turned back around and began walking out of the cargo hold, Rillie stared enviously at the rich leather of her boots.

On deck, Flint and the others were busy dropping anchor. Rillie eyed him as she passed by, following Maeraria, but he didn’t look up.

“Come, wench,” Maeraria said. She grabbed Rillie roughly by the elbow and led her off the ship. “Now you will sing for the people.”

There was already a large crowd gathered on the docks. Rillie blinked – the people were unlike any she had ever seen. Their skin was tinged with a faint blueish cast and their eyes were as dark as lumps of coal. They were staring at Rillie with intense curiosity.

“Sing for them,” Maeraria said. She pushed Rillie forward into the crowd of people. The men and women began to paw at her, clutching at her skirts. Rillie was suddenly glad that Maeraria had pinned her hair back in such a tight style.

Rillie obediently opened her mouth and began to sing. She sang one of her favorite ballads – a story about a wicked sorceress who lived in a high tower. And as usual, the men fell prey to her voice. They stared, slack-jawed, with their hands dangling uselessly at their sides and swaying from side to side. Even the women seemed captivated. Their black eyes shone a little brighter and their mouths curled into smiles.

When Rillie had finished the song, she stepped back. No one was clutching at her skirts now.

“Keep singing,” Maeraria hissed into her ear. She poked Rillie painfully hard in the small of her back.

So, Rillie continued singing. She ran through all of the songs she knew until her throat was dry and parched and her jaw ached. The crowds changed as people came and went throughout the day. By the time the sun was setting, Rillie was exhausted. Her bare feet were numb from standing on the cold, wet wood of the dock all day and she didn’t have to look at her reflection to realize that she was badly burned by the sun.

Maeraria came by in the early evening. When she saw the large basket filled with coins and small gifts in front of Rillie, she smiled happily.

“Very good,” Maeraria said. “And tomorrow, we will be moving on to a new land.”

“Where are we going?” Rillie asked hoarsely. Maeraria was clutching a vessel of water and she stared at Rillie as she lifted the skin to her mouth and drank until water dribbled down her chin. When the skin was near empty, Maeraria passed it to Rillie.

“You may drink now,” Maeraria said.

Rillie was too thirsty to care and she drained the skin, squeezing it tightly to get every last drop of water. When she had finished, she saw that Maeraria was still staring at her.

“We are going to a strange land,” Maeraria said. She smiled coldly. “A land called Zheka.”

Rillie’s eyes rolled back into her head and she collapsed to the docks.

Maeraria frowned. “Get up, wench,” she said, nudging Rillie in the belly with the toe of her boot.

But Rillie didn’t move.

Chapter Twelve

Baelan

Baelan stood on the deck of the ship for what felt like a very long time, staring at the shoreline of Zheka and wondering what the consequences would be for doing something so reckless and dangerous. Aerdan had warned him, of course – did that mean that Aerdan would be of any assistance?

Baelan didn’t care. He was ready to face the punishment from Queen Zornaya all on his own…as long as it meant that Rillie was safe and sound.

Baelan struggled with the ropes and the sail. He dimly remembered Loreth giving him advice on how to scale the mast with the rolled flags tucked under his arm, but it was so unwieldy that in the end, he gave up. Baelan stood at the helm with the ship’s wheel gripped tightly in his hands. Hold on, Rillie, he thought as the ship inched slowly out of the harbor. I’m coming for you.

By the time the sun was rising high in the sky, Baelan had overcome some of his initial anxiety. The sea was smooth and calm and blue beneath the ship, and Baelan had a sense of pride – maybe joining the Zhekan navy hadn’t been a disastrous decision after all. The ship was cutting through the waves, gently rocking up and down in the water like a cork.

“This isn’t so difficult,” Baelan said to himself as he guided the ship away from Zheka and into the vast blue ocean. He grinned as the wind changed and a refreshing salt spray covered his face in mist. Now that Baelan was away from Perth and the other sailors of Zheka, he realized he actually enjoyed being out in the open air, on a boat. It was peaceful and calm – maybe after he found Rillie, the two of them could sail around, visiting wherever they pleased. It had worked for his sister, Selene, and Rillie could always bring in a few coins by singing on the docks.

But after a few hours, Baelan realized he was sweaty and uncomfortable under the hot sun. His muscles were strained from steering the large ship and managing the ropes for the sails all by himself. He kept looking down into the bright blue sea and wishing that he could drop anchor and take a refreshing swim. All of that water was making him thirsty, too. In a moment of panic, Baelan realized he had left the Zhekan harbor without any food, water, or thought for comfort. He warily abandoned the ship’s wheel and went down into the stores to see what was left behind.

The result was dismaying. Baelan didn’t find anything except a few rotten ears of corn and some crumbs. The squeak of mice told him that they’d likely gotten the rest of the food. And there was no fresh water to be found, only empty buckets and flagons. In a moment of desperation, Baelan tied a length of cord to one of the buckets, then lowered it down into the sea and hauled it up. The water was blissfully clear and cool, but when Baelan tried to drink, the salt burned his mouth. He dropped to his knees and vomited all over the deck.

When it was over, Baelan felt even worse than he had before. At least the heat of the sun was slowly fading – the bright yellow orb in the sky had slipped behind a cover of grey clouds and white mist. The mist was chilling but refreshing, and it felt good on Baelan’s ruddy, sunburnt face.

Maybe I acted too quickly, Baelan thought. The mist was getting thicker and thicker and he could barely see as he clutched the wheel of the ship, trying to steer the rudder straight. Although he could no longer see the surface of the ocean, he could tell that the waves had begun to churn and foam – the ship was pitching violently from side to side and Baelan lost his footing on the slippery deck. He hadn’t thought to change into his sailing clothes, and the soles of his shoes weren’t doing a proper job of gripping the floorboards. He skidded helplessly from side to side. A bright yellow bolt of lightning flooded the sky, filling Baelan’s chest with panic.

That was when Baelan heard the clap of thunder overhead. When rain began to fall from the sky, Baelan’s heart sank. He realized he had acted capriciously – if he ran into a storm, there was no way he’d be able to make it out alive. He cursed his earlier optimism and stupidity – if it wasn’t for his impetuous temper, he’d never have gotten himself and Rillie into this mess in the first place.

“Gods, please,” Baelan begged. The ship lurched dangerously low, dipping so close to the sea that Baelan gasped as the waves rose up to meet the mast and dampen the sails. The ropes had come loose and the sails were flapping wildly about, cracking in the wind and rain.

A loud noise filled the air and Baelan gripped the wheel of the ship. It was a torturous sound, a loud grinding and tearing. The ship skidded to a halt and Baelan screamed when he saw a large pile of grey rocks right next to the ship. Desperately, he tried fumbling with the ship’s wheel but it was no use.

By now, the rain was pelting Baelan’s face like small insects. He could barely keep his eyes open as another huge bolt of lightning struck down – Baelan gasped as he watched the edge of the bolt touch the water. When the thunder sounded, it was monstrously close. Baelan dropped to his knees and crawled along the deck of the ship, trying to make it to the hold. But the ship had begun to sink, and the water was rising towards Baelan at an alarming rate.

I’ve failed you, Rillie, Baelan thought as his heart constricted in his chest. It was painful, like being in the grip of a strong vise. It seemed so much easier to just close his eyes and give up. When the mast of the ship struck Baelan on the back of the head, he barely felt the pain.

--

“Baelan!” Rillie shrieked. “Baelan, what’s happened to you?”

Baelan groaned. He was so relieved to hear Rillie’s voice again – except something was different about her, harsher. Oh, well, he thought to himself as he balled his hands into fists and rubbed at his eyes. I am sure she has been through just as much as I!

“Baelan, open your eyes!”

Baelan frowned. That voice was definitely not Rillie’s – why, it sounded familiar, but in a strange way.

“I’ve failed you,” Baelan mumbled. He collapsed onto the ground and buried his face in his hands, still unwilling to open his eyes and face the woman he loved. “And now we’re dead, and it’s my fault!”

“Baelan, snap out of it!”

Baelan groaned. He sat up and blinked, wincing immediately at the painful bright sunlight that filtered into his eyes. When he realized he was sitting on the sandy shore of Zheka, he blinked and gasped.

“Baelan, in the name of the gods!” Baelan looked up to see his sister, Selene, standing there with her hands on her hips. Her dark blue eyes were narrowed and her face was cross.

“I…”

“And no, you aren’t dead,” Selene said, shaking her head. “But you’re quite sick.” She stepped forward and reached down, grabbing Baelan’s elbow and pulling him to his feet with surprising strength. “And what’s all this about failing?” Selene narrowed her eyes, looking angry. “Baelan, if you want the truth – the only one you’ve failed is yourself!”

Baelan winced. His throat was dry and parched and his mouth felt like the coarse muslin fabric of his shirt. He blinked at his sister.

“You’re not…”

“I’m not who?” Selene frowned. “Baelan, I need you take you to Aine and have her work on healing you! You look terrible!”

“I’m fine,” Baelan grumbled. In truth, he felt far from fine. He knew he was not only responsible for crashing one of Zheka’s largest ships, but he hadn’t even begun to discover Rillie’s whereabouts.

“Mother tells me you met someone,” Selene said. Her frown faded and she stepped closer, putting an arm around Baelan’s waist and supporting her brother. “And let me guess – you were out, looking for her?”

Baelan nodded weakly. “Aye,” he said. “That’s about the balance of it.”

Selene glanced over her shoulder. “It’s just lucky you washed up!” She said, brushing the dried sand from Baelan’s tunic and trousers. “There was such an awful storm last night, you could’ve been washed out to sea!”

“The queen is going to have me killed,” Baelan said. “She…”

“Don’t worry about the queen right now,” Selene said. “Right now, we need to take you inside and get you healed up.” She touched a spot on Baelan’s forehead and he winced as pain seared through his head.

“I’m fine, really,” Baelan tried to insist. But Selene, despite being petite, was still much stronger than he was at the moment.

“Look, a new ship sailed in,” Selene said. She shielded her dark blue eyes with one hand and glanced down at the harbor. “They survived the storm all right. I wonder if they came because they were worried about you. But it’s not a Zhekan ship,” she added, trailing off nervously.

Baelan’s heart leaped and he found renewed strength as he pulled away from Selene and tore away from her help. He broke into a run and ran down the shore until the docks came into focus. There, in the harbor, was an unfamiliar ship, just as Selene had said.

Baelan gasped when he saw it was the same black ship that had attacked Zheka at sea.

“Rillie,” Baelan said in a hoarse voice. “She has to be with them!”

“Baelan, wait!” Selene yelped. “Where are you going?”

“I have to find her!” Baelan shouted over his shoulder. He stumbled and almost fell, but kept running until the docks were in clear view. There was a large group of men standing around – they looked ragged and threadbare – as well as a tall female captain wearing a large hat and shiny black leather boots.

And there, standing in the middle of them all and wearing the gaudiest gown Baelan had ever seen, was Rillie. Her face was pale and there was an alarming bruise over one eye that traveled up to her forehead and trailed down her face, kissing her jawline with a faint blue tinge.

“Rillie!” Baelan yelled. “Rillie!”

Rillie looked up in surprise – she had been in the middle of a song – and her singing halted. Her face turned even paler and for a moment, Baelan was afraid she would swoon. When she didn’t run to him after a moment, Baelan was filled with confusion.

“Baelan,” Selene hissed in his ear. “Tread carefully, look! It’s the queen!” Selene pointed down to the docks. Sure enough, Queen Zornaya was standing there in golden robes and a light summer cloak of silk and cashmere.

“What is she doing here,” Baelan wondered aloud. “Selene, come.” He turned to his sister. “Look, that woman – the one in the bright dress – she is the one I have been searching for. I can’t let her leave again!”

“Well, she doesn’t seem to be too fond of you,” Selene grumbled. “Why hasn’t she come to meet us?”

Baelan’s stomach contracted and a sharp pain struck his belly. “Because something is wrong,” he said in a hushed voice. “She can’t leave them. I need to speak with the queen – I need to free her!”

“Baelan!” Selene growled. “You are speaking madness!” She reached to grab Baelan’s sleeve once again but he yanked free of her grip and began running down the hill, closer to the docks.

Up close, Rillie looked terrible. There were dark circles under her grey eyes and her pale blonde hair was hanging in scraggly locks around her shoulders. Despite the bright, ostentatious silk dress, she looked as if she had neither bathed nor had a proper meal in ages. But there was more than that. There was a look in her eyes, a dullness, that Baelan couldn’t recall seeing. Where was the spirited girl who had laughed and sang and danced?

Baelan’s chest was heaving as he approached the docks. Everyone fell silent at his arrival – even the queen turned to see him, making a face of surprise.

“Why, Baelan,” Queen Zornaya said. “I wasn’t expecting to see you here.” She cleared her throat and Baelan dropped into a low bow.

“Aye, your majesty,” Baelan said in a quiet voice. “I have come to fetch Rillie.”

The queen’s jaw twitched and she narrowed her eyes. “If you mean this woman whom I forbade from singing, I am afraid you are too late,” she said. “She already belongs to someone – and I am seeing that they leave immediately. Her voice is a danger to our safety, Baelan.”

Baelan blinked. “What?”

The queen turned back to the female sea captain and shook her head. “You may leave,” Queen Zornaya said. “And if you are gone by nightfall, I shall assure your safety – I can promise this: my navy will never attack you again, as long as you keep that creature away from Zhekan shores.”

At her words, Rillie seemed to tremble and shake.

Baelan swallowed nervously. This was it – the moment he’d been waiting for. He could betray his country, his queen, all for the sake of Rillie.

It wasn’t a hard decision at all.

Baelan pushed through the crowd and put his arm around Rillie, pulling her close. To his relief, she didn’t pull away – she snuggled into his arm and closed her eyes.

“Please,” Rillie whispered. “Baelan, you can’t do this for me.”

Baelan turned to Rillie and put his hands on her shoulders, staring deeply into her pale eyes.

“Rillie, Baelan said urgently. “You have to fight. You can’t go with them, you have to stay!”

“What is the meaning of this!” Queen Zornaya said harshly. “This woman – this creature – belongs to Captain Maeraria!”

“She’s not a creature, and she doesn’t belong to anyone!” Baelan said angrily. “And she doesn’t deserve to be shipped off, just because you feel threatened!”

The queen went white on the lips like she had just been slapped across the face. The crowd fell silent. For a long moment, all Baelan could hear was his blood rushing his ears and the frantic beating of his heart.

Captain Maeraria stepped forward, laughing coldly. “Child, come,” she said, reaching for Rillie’s wrist and grabbing at her. She tugged at Rillie but Baelan held on tighter.

“You’re not taking her away!” Baelan yelled. “I’m not going to let you do it!” He gazed into Rillie’s eyes. “You have to help me,” he whispered. “I can take her down – but you have to sing!”

Rillie looked fearful for a moment, then her expression hardened. She opened her mouth and began to sing. Baelan felt the strong temptation to stand and close his eyes and sway to the music, but he pushed past it. The other men in the crowd were obviously enchanted, and Baelan began pushing his way through the crowd until he reached the captain.

“You can’t take her away from me,” the captain said indignantly. “She is my source of wealth!”

“You won’t exploit her any longer!”

Baelan blinked as an unfamiliar man rushed to his side. The man was on the thin side, with a hallowed face and gingery whiskers. He shot a brief grin at Baelan before grabbing the sea captain and tackling her to the ground. He took a dagger from his waist and tossed it to Baelan. Baelan grabbed the dagger from the air and jumped on top of the captain, pressing the blade to her throat.

It was a surreal scene. Rillie sang on, surrounded by dazed men, as Baelan and Flint attacked Captain Maeraria. Baelan pressed the blade against her throat until a red drop of blood appeared.

“Let her go,” Baelan growled. “And leave her here, or I’ll make sure you’ll never walk on the deck of your ship again.” He passed the dagger to Flint, then grabbed Rillie’s hand and began running toward the shore.

“Baelan,” Rillie gasped breathlessly. “What are you doing? What did you make me do?”

“You escaped!” Baelan said. “And now, you don’t have to worry about that, that witch! She won’t hurt you any longer.” Baelan pulled Rillie into a tight hug. He was shocked to feel that her body was stiff and rigid against his.

“Baelan, she forbade me—“

“Nonsense,” Baelan said. He pulled away and brushed Rillie’s hair away from her face and kissed her forehead. “Rillie, I’ve wanted nothing more than to find you, ever since you disappeared from my ship. I thought you were dead,” he added tenderly.

“The Queen…” Rillie trailed off, glancing fearfully behind her.

Baelan whirled around. Queen Zornaya was stalking over the shoreline. Her eyes were narrow and angry and her mouth was set in a thin line. There were two lines of guards behind her, marching and carrying long spears.

“Baelan Covendane!” The queen said loudly. “Just what have you done!”

“Rillie, stand behind me,” Baelan hissed. But Rillie didn’t move. She began to quiver and shake.

“Queen Zornaya,” Baelan said, pushing Rillie to the side and stepping forward in a defiant pose. “I have done exactly as I should have done. That woman – that captain – was abusing Rillie, and I have freed her.”

The queen’s eyes flashed with hot anger. “You are lucky I feel generous,” she said. “For I could have you thrown in the dungeons for the rest of your life!”

“Why?” Baelan narrowed his eyes. “I’ve done nothing wrong!”

“You have unleashed this creature upon us!” The queen said strongly. Baelan thought he had never seen her look so angry. “And now we are all in peril! Have you not seen her powers? She is capable of putting our whole country at risk!”

Baelan didn’t reply.

“Baelan, she forbade me from singing,” Rillie said quietly. To Baelan’s horror, she stepped up and curtsied to the queen. “Queen Zornaya,” Rillie said. “I am sorry. Please – please forgive me.”

The queen’s eyes flashed once more. She raised her arm and the guards rushed forward. Before Baelan could move, two guards grabbed Rillie by each of her arms and began hauling her away.

“Rillie!” Baelan yelled. “What are you doing?” He demanded at the queen, glaring hotly. “Why are you taking her away?!”

“I am taking her to the dungeons,” the queen said tartly. “Where she belongs.”

Chapter Thirteen

Baelan

Baelan stood on the shore for a long time, feeling helpless as he watched the queen and her entourage slowly make their way back into the castle. When he turned to leave, he realized Selene was still there, sitting on the rocks by the water. He went to her and sat down.

“So,” Selene said quietly. “Your new love is an enemy of Zheka, I see.”

Baelan sighed. “She isn’t, not at all,” he replied. He explained about Rillie’s voice.

Selene shook her head. “Baelan, you should’ve known better,” she said, tossing her dark hair over one shoulder and toying with the ends. “Really!”

“What was I supposed to do,” Baelan moaned, putting his face in his hands. “How could I have known Zornaya would do such a thing?”

“Because she is our queen,” Selene said stiffly. “And I doubt that she makes empty threats.” She sighed and scooted closer to her brother, staring at him critically. “And you should have thought about that!”

“Rillie is no threat,” Baelan said stubbornly.

Selene bit her lip. “Baelan,” she said quietly. “I…I do not wish to bring up the past, but remember the lady, Taryn? And how you thought that she was perfect?”

“Rillie is nothing like Taryn!”

“Yes, well, I don’t know that,” Selene said in a gentle voice. “And perhaps the queen only has your best interest in mind. You forget – we were all too recently put in a very dangerous situation.”

“I haven’t forgotten,” Baelan said sourly. “And I joined the navy for that very reason! I wanted the queen to know I am quite serious about making amends.”

Selene let out a deep breath.

“And besides, that woman – that evil captain! – did you ever look at her? She must have been hurting Rillie,” Baelan said. “She directed her men to attack us at sea, and Rillie is the only reason that our ship wasn’t taken! Would the queen rather her own navy be taken, prisoner?”

Selene frowned. “So, you mean that girl stowed away on your ship?”

“Aye, but—“

“Baelan!” Selene said harshly. She got to her feet and wiped her hands on her skirts. “Listen to yourself, brother! You are blinded by love!” She pursed her lips. “Still, I think perhaps the queen would warm if you told her of that tale.”

Baelan shook his head bitterly. “It’s no use,” he said angrily. “I’ve done enough.”

“Now you are being the same stubborn Baelan I recognize,” Selene said.

Baelan didn’t laugh. “It’s not amusing,” he replied. “Why isn’t everyone overjoyed that I’ve finally found the woman I love? My true mate,” he added. “I know there is no other woman for me than Rillie.”

“Because she is a foreigner,” Selene said. “And because she possesses a strange power that could bring dozens of men to their knees, just at the sound of her voice! Don’t you understand, Baelan?”

“Well, then, I should take her and leave,” Baelan said sourly.

“It would not be that simple,” Selene said. “You really think the queen is just going to release her?” She blinked and shook her head. “And Baelan, trust me – as much as I thought I wanted to leave Zheka, I found myself missing it more by the day. You have family here!”

“I could ask the queen to entertain an audience,” Baelan said. He began thinking of what to ask, what to say to the queen so she would release Rillie from the dungeons.

“You could try,” Selene said. She took Baelan’s hand. “Come, walk with me – Phaelenx will be curious where I have gone.”

“It’s all easy for you,” Baelan said bitterly, shaking his head. “Mother was simply happy that you found a mate, no matter what status. And ever since you left, she has been trying to make a match between Aya and myself.”

Selene giggled.

“I see nothing funny about that,” Baelan said. He frowned. “The lady Aya is as dim as she is pretty, and I’ve known her for my entire life. Why, she seems like my sister!”

Selene rolled her eyes. “You forget, mother tried to make a match for me as well,” she said. “And let me remind you, I know how that feels.”

The two lapsed into silence as they approached the royal compound. When they were at the entrance, Baelan pulled Selene into a spontaneous hug.

“What?” Selene pulled away. “What is it?”

Baelan swallowed. His eyes were dark and large and full of purpose. “If Queen Zornaya is willing to release her, we must leave at once,” he said. “And I may never see you or mother again.”

Selene nodded. “I understand.” She leaned in and pressed her dry lips to Baelan’s cheek. “I will be keeping you in my prayers, brother,” she said. “And the girl, too.”

Baelan watched his sister disappear into the royal compound with mixed feelings. One part of him felt that leaving Zheka would be a sweet relief after the recent events. But the other part of him felt a twinge of regret that he had not handled the situation more appropriately.

Still, he set off at a fast pace to the castle. As Baelan entered over the drawbridge, he realized he was attracting a wide array of stares. He frowned – he was used to passing through as a royal cousin. Then he looked down and realized he had yet to change out of the torn, sandy clothing that he’d been wearing when he left Zheka on a stolen ship.

The queen’s chamber was flanked by two guards. Baelan puffed out his chest and strode confidently toward them.

“Please, I need to speak with Queen Zornaya,” Baelan said in his most respectful voice.

“And you are?”

Baelan bristled at the question. “I am Baelan Covendane!”

One of the guards flushed slightly. “Ah, yes,” he said. “I am sorry, sir, I did not recognize you. Please, wait here for a moment.

Baelan fidgeted nervously as he waited for the guard to return. He rocked back and forth on the balls of his feet and twisted his hands behind his back. It seemed to take an incredible amount of time.

When the guard returned, Baelan half expected to be turned away. But to his surprise, the guard bowed.

“The queen will see you now,” the guard said.

Baelan tried to maintain his air of confidence as he strode into the queen’s chamber. Zornaya had changed into a dressing gown of brilliant green silk. She looked haughty and regal and angry.

“My queen,” Baelan said in a low voice. He dropped into a bow.

“You may sit,” the queen said.

Baelan stood and walked to a small chair where he sat hesitantly.

“I expect you are here about the girl.”

“Aye,” Baelan said. “I mean, yes, my queen. That is why I have come.”

“It is no use. She will remain in the dungeon until Captain Maeraria comes for her, at which point I will release her.”

Baelan stared at the queen in horror. He had always known Zornaya as a gentle, benevolent ruler. When had she become so hard, so cruel?

“I know you think me callous,” Zornaya said as if reading Baelan’s mind. “And yet I am not. It is not only in my best interest – it is in the interest of Zheka, and my people.” She got to her feet and walked over to Baelan. “And my people trust me to rule them fairly.”

“My queen, if I may speak,” Baelan said in a low voice. The queen was surprisingly tall and her figure standing next to Baelan was intimidating – it made Baelan realize that she had wanted him to sit for obvious reasons.

“Please,” the queen said.

“Rillie is no threat to Zheka,” Baelan said. “She is a wonderful girl. I have fallen in love with her.”

The queen showed no sign of surprise. Internally, Baelan cursed his mother.

“I am sure you have,” the queen said. “But the kingdom is filled with suitable young women – many of whom are quite beautiful and wealthy.”

Where was this skepticism when I was losing my mind over the lady Taryn, Baelan thought angrily. He balled his hands into fists.

“Baelan,” the queen said, sensing his anger. “You may go to the dungeons and have Rillie released, under one condition.”

Baelan’s heart soared and he leaped to his feet. “That we leave Zheka, forever? Because I will gladly do it,” he said quickly. “As long as I may be with Rillie.”

The queen looked startled. “No,” she said. “No, of course not. That would never do, for what if she harmed you, and then returned to harm us?”

Baelan stared. “What do you mean?”

“I will allow the release of the girl if you swear to cut her tongue out,” the queen said calmly. “Either that or if you will swear to kill her.”

Baelan felt like the queen had ripped into his chest and removed his heart. “What?” he asked dully

“Baelan, I know you understood my words,” the queen said softly. “Now, please, leave. If you are not prepared to do either of those things, she will rot in the dungeons until the captain returns.”

Baelan couldn’t speak. His head was spinning and his heart was thumping wildly. He was in a state of shock, of disbelief.

“You…” Baelan spat at Queen Zornaya. “You are not a fair ruler!”

The queen’s eyes flashed with anger. “You will see,” she said calmly. “When Aerdan is High Commander, you will see his own wife make the same difficult decisions.”

Baelan was so angry that he felt like spitting in her face.

“Guards!” Queen Zornaya yelled.

The two guards burst in and Zornaya pointed to Baelan.

“He is not rational,” she said. “And I wish for him to leave me.”

The guards grabbed Baelan’s arms and began dragging him from her chamber. He was so angry that for a moment, he didn’t even realize what was happening. But as soon as he saw the stone walls of the castle, he began to kick and scream.

Rillie, I’ll save you, Baelan thought angrily as the guards tossed him out into the bright sunlight. Even if I have to kill everyone in my path.

Chapter Fourteen

Rillie

As the guards dragged Rillie away from the shore, away from Baelan, and away from that hateful queen, she realized that she had been defeated. There would be no rescue, no chance to escape, no chance to find happiness and love with Baelan.

The first night in the dungeons, Rillie closed her eyes and wept bitterly. The conditions of the dungeons under the Zhekan castle made Captain Maeraria’s ship look like paradise. The stone walls were streaked with lime and mold and the cell was freezing cold. Rillie’s gaudy silk dress was taken and she was instead given a thin shift covered with holes and tatters. She spent the first night with her skinny arms wrapped around her skinny legs, rocking back and forth and sobbing. But in the morning, she was determined to bear her sentence with as much dignity as possible.

A female guard brought Rillie food – it wasn’t much, a grimy pewter plate filled with gruel and a bit of meat.

“This is better than what the men get,” the guard roughly told Rillie. “And don’t you want to keep your strength up?” Without waiting for Rillie to reply, she threw her head back and burst into laughter.

Rillie shuddered. The gruel was already cold, and there was a layer of congealed grease on the top. She shivered, thinking of how Flint would sneak into her room and bring her salt pork. She’d never have thought it, but she missed those evenings.

And Baelan! What had he been thinking, getting her to sing and ruin everything? Surely he had some kind of noble idea in mind, but Rillie had been fearful of the possibility…and now that she was in the dungeons, locked away from the sunlight and warmth, Rillie knew that her fears had been well-founded.

So, it came as quite a surprise when after a few days, the guard came in the middle of the day.

“Am I to be moved?” Rillie asked. She gripped the cold iron bars of her cell with both hands and pressed her face against them. By now, her face was so thin that she could almost put her head through the bars.

The guard shook her head. “No,” she said shortly. “There is someone here to see you. A royal.”

Rillie’s heart leaped and she felt like dancing and singing. So, Baelan had finally figured out a way to free her, after all! Tears of happiness filled her eyes and she smiled. But when she saw the visitor come closer, her smile faded. It wasn’t Baelan at all – it was a lady. The guard been right, there was definitely something noble about this woman. And she even resembled Baelan, with dark hair and bright blue eyes.

The woman put her long sleeve over her face and gagged at the putrid smell of the dungeons. But when she spotted Rillie, she stood up straight and made her face perfectly calm again.

“I am Arsinoe,” the woman said. “Arsinoe Covendane.”

“I assume you know who I am,” Rillie said in a small voice. “Have you come as a charity project?”

To her surprise, the woman laughed. She took a sachet from her robes and held it under her nose, breathing deeply. Even though she was a slight distance away, Rillie could smell the faint smell of herbs and spices.

“No, child,” Arsinoe replied. “I have not come on charity. I have come to speak with you.” She raised an eyebrow at Rillie. “I know my son is quite enchanted by you.”

“Baelan?” Rillie blinked. “You’re Baelan’s mother?”

“Yes,” Arsinoe said primly. “Perhaps I have aged so much that we no longer resemble each other.” She tossed her hair vainly.

“No, no,” Rillie said, shaking her head. “I…”

“I am sure you do not know why I have come,” Arsinoe continued. She fluffed her skirts and lowered herself down onto a small wooden stool with three legs.

Rillie didn’t reply. If this woman was Baelan’s mother, why wasn’t she trying to help Rillie? Surely, any mother who loved their son would do such a thing?

“I have come to tell you about my son,” Arsinoe continued. “Because despite what he has mentioned to me, I am quite sure you know very little about him.”

Rillie frowned. “No,” she said.

Arsinoe blinked in surprise. “Excuse me, child?”

“I know a great deal about Baelan,” Rillie said in a shaky voice. “He is strong and brave, and kind. I know that he cares for his family.”

“My Baelan, brave?” Arsinoe chuckled. “No, child. I am afraid that is not the truth.” She sighed. “The truth is, my Baelan has been promised since birth to one of his royal cousins, Aya Covendane.”

Rillie couldn’t keep the look of surprise from her face.

“Yes,” Arsinoe said serenely. “I am sure he did not mention her, did he?”

When Rillie didn’t reply, Arsinoe laughed softly.

“Of course, Baelan would not mention her,” Arsinoe continued. “Why would he have done that? He only wished to play around with you, toy with your feelings. And learning about his betrothed would have made any sane young woman change her mind.”

Rillie’s mind was spinning. Baelan, engaged? But why hadn’t he told her?

“And if I may continue,” Arsinoe said primly. “This is far from the first time Baelan has tried…well, tried to toy with a lady’s affections.” She looked at Rillie disdainfully. “Although, I am quite sure you are no lady.”

Rillie’s cheeks burned at the insult, but she was too shocked to reply.

“Has Baelan told you about the lady Taryn?”

Rillie’s mind was spinning. First Aya, now Taryn, she thought angrily. Why, I can’t believe he deceived me so!

“I am going to assume from your expression that you have never heard that name before,” Arsinoe continued. She laughed again – that same infuriating girlish giggle. Rillie felt her anger and resentment growing, towards both Baelan and his mother.

“No,” Rillie replied stiffly. “I regret to say that name is not too familiar.”

“The lady Taryn was also a foreigner – she came from the land of Glasule. I am going to assume you know where that is,” Arsinoe continued. “And like you, she was most bewitching.”

Rillie didn’t reply. She couldn’t imagine Baelan kissing and caressing and whispering with two other women – at least, why hadn’t he told her? She wouldn’t have minded – at least, she didn’t think that she would have minded! She hadn’t exactly thought she was Baelan’s first lover, for he had been much too thorough for that. But still, some knowledge of his past would have made Rillie feel more at ease.

“The lady Taryn was so charming that everyone in the kingdom felt great affection for her,” Arsinoe continued. “Perhaps with the exception of my headstrong daughter, Selene. But that is no matter. I, as well as my husband, thought Taryn would make Baelan a most suitable wife.”

“I thought you said he had been engaged since birth to Aya?” Rillie asked.

Arsinoe sighed. Ignoring Rillie, she continued: “Baelan and the lady Taryn were wed in the castle.”

“Baelan was…he was married?” Rillie blinked. Suddenly, she remembered her first ominous conversation with Queen Zornaya, where Zornaya had hinted at some sort of troubling darkness.

Arsinoe chuckled. “Yes, child, Baelan was married. Only for a brief time.”

“What happened?” Rillie frowned. “The queen, she mentioned it to me…but she didn’t explain.”

“The lady Taryn was not a lady at all, but rather a sorceress in disguise,” Arsinoe continued. “And she bewitched everyone in Zheka – including the queen!”

Rillie gasped. Queen Zornaya had alluded to something horrible, but nothing as horrible as bewitching the royal family.

“Yes,” Arsinoe said. She seemed to take pleasure in Rillie’s shock. “Many were killed. There was a great battle in the castle.” She sniffed. “And it was only by a very great stroke of luck that the queen’s senses were restored. But no one in the kingdom had ever seen anything like it. The lady Taryn even brought back the dead, to fight the living.”

Rillie blinked. It was like something from one of her ballads.

“So, you see,” Arsinoe said, leaning back on the stool and examining her white hands. “Baelan has a history of making poor decisions. In fact, if you would like my honest opinion, I do not think he can make any decision at all without making the wrong one.”

The words, although not particularly cruel, stung Rillie to the bone.

“And while I am sure you have good intentions – or not – it is not my place to decide,” Arsinoe said smoothly. “All I know is that you have a great power, and that power could be used for evil as well as pleasure.”

Rillie shrank back from the bars. “I would never hurt anyone,” she said fiercely.

“Yes, well, it is too late for such worries now,” Arsinoe said. She rose to her feet and wiped her hands on her skirts. “All I will say is this – you know nothing of my son, and I am sure that without your special talent, well, I am sure he never would notice you.”

“What?” Rillie wrinkled her nose. “What do you mean?”

Arsinoe laughed. “Dear child, do not be so naïve,” she said. “You have power about you. Baelan, the poor clueless boy, is drawn to women with such…danger about them. And I am sure it is only your voice that he thinks he loves. Besides, how could you know anything about each other? From what I’ve heard, you have barely spent time in each other’s company!”

Rillie’s heart slowed in her chest and she clutched at the bars once again, gasping for air. It was all for nothing, she realized. He doesn’t love me…I merely attracted him, as I’ve done with all of the other men who have heard me sing!

Arsinoe smiled. She looked pleased, even radiant in the dim light of the dungeon.

“So, you see,” Arsinoe said. “When the captain returns, I urge you to leave with her. Do not spend your life in this dungeon. I am sure you will bring others, outside of Zheka, much joy. After all, you have a beautiful voice.”

And with that, Arsinoe was gone.

Rillie was filled with a hot, vengeful anger. She grabbed the pewter dish on which she’d received breakfast and hurled it at the wall, spattering gruel all over the floor of her cell.

“Curse him!” Rillie yelled under her breath. She couldn’t believe that she’d believed Baelan, his stupid, comforting words of affection! The way he’d held her!

Just then, the guard approached Rillie’s cell. Rillie narrowed her eyes.

“You didn’t have to make such a mess!” The guard clucked her tongue. “Really, now! You have a visitor!”

Rillie didn’t even look up. She expected to hear the condescending words of Arsinoe once more, and she tried to prepare herself for the inevitable.

Instead, a familiar but harsh voice filled her ears.

“Get up, child.”

Rillie looked up to see Captain Maeraria.

Maeraria shook her head. “My, what a mess you are,” she said. Like Arsinoe, she looked almost pleased. “I have come to take you with me. I trust you will not fight.” She leaned in close and Rillie saw a scab on her neck, as well as bruises all over her face.

Rillie stood up and turned to face her with dull eyes.

“I will not fight you,” she said.

The guard opened the iron bars of Rillie’s cell and Maeraria grabbed Rillie’s wrist, dragging her out of the dungeon.

“I see you’ve somehow ruined your dress,” Maeraria said, glaring at her. “That will come out of your next batch of coin!”

As Rillie closed her eyelids, hot tears leaked down onto her cheeks.

“And this is no time for crying!” Captain Maeraria said harshly. “You know how that sound grates my ears!”

Rillie didn’t reply. As she followed Captain Maeraria out of the dungeon and into the sunlight, she wished that she was dead.

Chapter Fifteen

Baelan

Baelan spent the next few days desperately trying to figure out how to free Rillie. Selene was no help – she kept insisting that Queen Zornaya would come around – and he knew he couldn’t approach his mother. But by the end of the third day, he felt like he was losing his mind.

“How restless you are,” Selene commented, raising an eyebrow.

“You know the reason why,” Baelan retorted.

Selene’s smirk faded and she gave her brother a sympathetic look. “You’ll be able to figure something out,” she said quietly. “You’ve always been smart.” She chuckled quietly. “You’ve managed to evade mother and Aya for days now, and I know that can’t have been very easy.”

Baelan rolled his eyes. Suddenly, something occurred to him.

“What is it?” Selene asked.

“It’s mother,” Baelan replied. He frowned and got to his feet, setting down the wooden ball he’d been rolling in his hands. “Doesn’t it seem odd to you that she’s almost ignored me?”

Selene blinked. “Now that you mention it,” she said slowly. “In fact, I can’t remember the last time I saw her. She hasn’t come to dinner in days.”

Baelan felt his heart skid to a stop. Somehow, he knew that his mother was involved with Rillie’s imprisonment. Setting his mouth in a thin line, he stalked upstairs to her chamber.

“Mother, I need to speak with you,” Baelan said loudly, knocking on the door with his closed fist. “Are you there?”

From the other side of the door, Baelan heard a feigned cough.

“Baelan, child, I am not well,” Arsinoe said.

Baelan groaned. “Of course you are not well,” he said, twisting the brass knob of the door in his hand and pushing it open. “You have been lying to me.”

Arsinoe was sitting at her desk, looking over scrolls of parchment. There was a glass of mead by her side, and judging by the bloodshot look in her eyes, she was quite intoxicated.

“Ah, I see,” Baelan said sarcastically. “You are not sick – you are just drinking.”

“Do not speak to me that way,” Arsinoe replied. She got to her feet and put her hands on her hips, narrowing her eyes at her son. “You know I have had nothing but your best interests in mind.”

“Yes, like keeping Rillie locked in the dungeons and allowing the queen to believe her dangerous,” Baelan said. Somehow, hearing his words just made everything feel all the more real to him.

“She is dangerous,” Arsinoe said. “I trust the queen’s judgment on all matters, and I think you should, too.”

“How do you know that?” Baelan countered. “You’ve never even met her!”

Arsinoe stayed silent.

Anger began to bubble inside Baelan like a hot spring. “You have seen her,” he said slowly. “What did you do, mother?”

Arsinoe looked offended. “Why, I have only done what any loving mother would do for her child,” she said. “And how dare you question me!”

Baelan went white in the face. For a moment, he felt like he was going to faint. As much as he’d always wanted to believe his mother was a good person, with his own interests at heart, he was starting to learn how very selfish she was indeed.

“I am only going to ask you once more,” Baelan said slowly. “Tell me exactly – what did you say to Rillie?”

Arsinoe waved her hand in the air dismissively. “Calm down,” she said, shaking her head. “I said barely anything!” She locked eyes with Baelan and Baelan saw a fortress of strength and anger behind his mother’s blue irises.

“I am waiting,” Baelan said. He was so angry that his voice was barely audible.

Arsinoe shrugged. “I told her about you, and about your past,” she said. “You know – the lady Taryn, and how she was almost the ruin of Zheka. I told that little slip of a thing the truth – that you cannot be trusted to make decisions on your own.”

“What else?” Baelan growled.

“Oh, son,” Arsinoe said, sinking back down into her chair and taking a long drink of mead. “I know you think you love her – trust me, it will pass! It is nothing but a youthful infatuation. As soon as you and Aya are settled—“

“What did you tell her?” Baelan roared.

Arsinoe blinked. She went white on the lips for a moment, then smiled in a catlike way that was both confusing and somewhat sinister.

“I told her the truth – that you couldn’t possibly love her, as you don’t even know her,” Arsinoe said.

That was all Baelan needed to hear. He was so angry that he could have choked Arsinoe, but he knew there was little time to waste. If he was going to save Rillie, he had to make sure she knew the truth – that he loved her, desperately, and he was willing to do anything for her. Turning on his heel, Baelan stormed out of the room and began running through the royal compound.

Outside, the air was fresh and cool. The sky overhead was blue without a hint of cloud, and the sun was shining brightly down below. But Baelan noticed none of it. He raced towards the castle, praying under his breath that Rillie had not forsaken him.

That was when he saw the large black ship in the harbor. Baelan blinked – why had Captain Maeraria and her crew returned? A note of fear struck his heart and he turned towards the harbor, running as fast as his muscled legs could carry him. When he reached the docks, he saw the captain herself.

And Rillie, her ankles, and wrists in chains, was following behind her.

“Rillie!” Baelan yelled.

Rillie glanced up. Her face was bruised and streaked with tears. Her grey eyes were dark with shame and sadness.

“Rillie!” Baelan yelled again.

Rillie stared at him for a long moment. Then she turned her head and slowly followed Captain Maeraria up the gangplank of the ship.

Baelan felt another hot flash of anger at his mother. Damn her, he thought as he raced towards the ship. And to think she’d have won, too!

Baelan ran up the gangplank, close behind the captain and Rillie. He kept calling Rillie’s name, but she wouldn’t even turn to look at him. In desperation, he grabbed Maeraria by the shoulder and whirled her around.

The captain’s face was triumphant. “And just what do you want,” she said, sneering in Baelan’s face.

“You know exactly why I am here,” Baelan said. Without waiting for her to reply, he balled his hand into a fist and swung it towards Maeraria. The shock on her face showed only for a brief moment before Baelan’s hand slammed into her jaw. The captain cried out and staggered backward.

The crew fell into a hushed silence. As the captain lay bleeding and dazed on the deck of the ship, Baelan turned to Rillie in desperation.

“Rillie,” he said hoarsely, panting with the effort. “I need you to sing. Sing!”

There was a haunted look in Rillie’s eyes that hadn’t been there before.

“Please,” Baelan begged. “I swear, no harm will come to you!”

Rillie swallowed nervously. After what felt like an eternity, she parted her lips and began to sing.

“You forget!” Maeraria said, hauling herself to her feet and grabbing a dagger from her belt. “That doesn’t work on me!”

“I haven’t forgotten a thing,” Baelan said arrogantly. He balled his hands into fists and crouched into a defensive stance, rocking on the balls of his feet.

As Rillie sang, the crew became enchanted with her voice. Baelan watched from the corner of his eye as she slowly moved backward, the chains on her ankles clanking with every step. He narrowed his eyes and glared at Maeraria.

Maeraria laughed coldly. “Do not hold back because I am a woman,” she said, tossing her wild mane of black hair. “I am sure I can defeat you!”

“Oh, I won’t,” Baelan growled under his breath.

Maeraria launched forward, thrusting with the dagger. Baelan darted to the side and narrowly missed the dagger – instead of his chest, it plunged into thin air. He cackled wildly as adrenaline filled his body, replacing the hot anger with something more powerful. As Maeraria moved from side to side, Baelan swung his foot around in a powerful kick that connected with her belly. To his surprise, the captain stayed on her feet.

“Not used to fighting!” Maeraria crowed.

Baelan ignored her. He could hear the beautiful words coming from Rillie’s mouth and they gave him confidence and strength. Knowing that he loved her and was willing to do anything for her just made him all the more determined to vanquish the evil captain once and for all.

“I am,” Baelan growled. “Just in a way you’ve never seen.”

His reply seemed to startle the captain and she looked stunned. Baelan took the opportunity to leap forward and grab the dagger from her hand. He clutched it triumphantly, glaring down at her with hot pride in his dark blue eyes.

The captain staggered backward. Baelan thrust the knife forward. It plunged into Maeraria’s shoulder and she howled in pain, throwing her head back and wailing with anger.

“I’ll kill you!” Maeraria growled. She leaped forward again. Baelan darted to the side just in time to see Maeraria launch herself off the deck of the ship.

Baelan blinked in shock. The captain’s body fell through the air, smacking against the water with a loud sound that made even Rillie stop singing. Baelan gripped the railing of the ship and looked down. The captain was flailing in the water, kicking and thrashing. Finally, she gripped the edge of the ship and looked up at Baelan with hatred in her eyes.

Baelan stared for a long moment. Then he felt a small hand slip into his own.

“Let’s go,” Rillie whispered.

Baelan didn’t need to be told twice. He scooped Rillie into his arms and ran down the gangplank just as the captain was hauling herself onto the docks, dripping wet with water and blood.

Baelan broke into a fast run. He carried Rillie out of the harbor, over the grass field, and into the woods. He didn’t stop running until there was a painful stitch in his side. As soon as he stopped, he dropped gently to his knees and set Rillie down on the grass.

“Do you think she’s dead?” Rillie asked softly. There was no vacant look in her eyes now – she looked as alert and aware as a wild animal.

“I don’t care,” Baelan replied. He took Rillie in his arms and kissed her deeply. She pressed her body to his and Baelan realized she was shaking.

“What is it?” Baelan asked, pulling away. He saw Rillie had begun to cry. A single tear rolled down her dirty cheek and he wiped it away with his finger.

“Your mother—“

“My mother is a coward, and a liar,” Baelan said hotly. “And whatever she told you, I can assure you – it is not the truth. I love you, Rillie, and I have loved you for a long time. I feel as if I have waited for you my whole life.”

Rillie closed her eyes and sighed softly. She rattled the chains binding her wrists.

Baelan gripped the metal with his hands and pulled. Despite his strength, the cuffs wouldn’t budge. That was when he remembered Maeraria’s knife tucked in his belt. As carefully as he could, he twisted the blade of the knife into the screws binding the irons. They fell away from Rillie’s wrists and she rubbed them, wincing gratefully. When Baelan did the same to her ankles, he felt a charged moment growing between them. This was something more than primal lust – it was the very love he felt, the very passion he’d nursed ever since first meeting Rillie.

“There,” Baelan said softly. He set the irons down in a tangle of leaves. “You are free.”

“If the queen finds me—“

“She will not,” Baelan said, shuddering at Queen Zornaya’s warning. “And we will leave. As soon as you are ready – we will leave Zheka and never come back.”

Rillie was staring at him with clear hunger in her eyes. She wrapped her arms around Baelan’s neck and pulled him close, pressing her lips to his in a greedy kiss. Baelan groaned with passion. He put his hands on Rillie’s waist and hauled her into his lap, enjoying the slight weight of her petite body. Inside his trousers, his manhood stirred.

“Oh, Baelan,” Rillie whimpered. She broke the kiss and nuzzled his neck, gently nibbling at his earlobe until Baelan shivered with pleasure.

“I know we should go,” Baelan growled. “But I don’t want to wait.” He shifted until he and Rillie were both on the ground, and he crawled between her legs, kneeling on the damp earth. He placed a hand on the back of her neck and lifted her face to meet his, kissing and nuzzling her until Rillie was purring and moaning with pleasure. She ran her hands down Baelan’s back, gently scratching him with her short nails.

Baelan fumbled with the hem of his tunic, pulling it over his head and tossing it to the side. Rillie ran her hands over his bare chest, closing her eyes and arching her back as Baelan dipped his mouth to her neck and began to bite and suck at the tender flesh. Rillie moaned softly. Baelan lifted his face to hers and kissed her, sucking on her lower lip until Rillie was grinding her body against his. He could feel the heat from between her legs and it was enough to drive him mad.

Baelan lifted the hem of Rillie’s torn dress. “I must say,” he growled as he raised it inch by inch, exposing her pale skin. “I prefer this to that gown.”

Rillie closed her eyes, murmuring in agreement. As Baelan lifted the garment over her head and tossed it to the side, Rillie put her hands on his shoulders and pulled him close. She nuzzled his hair, inhaling deeply and tangling her hands in the dark brown mass. Baelan ran his hands over her naked body. When they had made love before, he had seen that she was petite – but now, she was even smaller. Her ribs and hips stuck out and Baelan winced as he ran his hand over them. It startled him – had he not been so aroused, he would have been racked with guilt.

Rillie flushed. “I know,” she said softly. “I am too thin.”

Baelan shook his head. He dipped his face to her lower belly, nuzzling the hollow between her hipbones. “You are perfect,” he replied in a low growl. “But all the same, I cannot wait to feed you everything you want.”

Baelan slipped a hand between Rillie’s legs. He stroked the velvety patch of hair. Rillie arched her back and moaned loudly. With his free hand, Baelan reached up and flicked her stiff nipples with his thumb. Rillie’s response was immediate and pleasing. She thrashed and moaned, biting her lip in obvious pleasure as Baelan ran his hands over the hard flesh.

“Touch me,” Baelan growled. He took his hand from between Rillie’s legs and grabbed one of her small hands, pressing it to the fork of his trousers. Through the thin material, he could feel the heat radiating from her palm and he groaned, thrusting his hips forward. Rillie began to rub his manhood through the cloth until Baelan knew he could stand it no longer. He pushed Rillie’s hand away and fumbled with the laces of his trousers, pushing them down his muscular thighs. When he was naked, he crawled between Rillie’s thighs and steadied himself with a hand on her hip. But to his surprise, Rillie sat up and gently pushed him away. She smiled seductively as she crawled on top of his body, straddling his pelvis.

Baelan groaned with pleasure as he felt Rillie’s soft, wet womanhood brushing against his own hardness. She closed her eyes and rocked back and forth, grinding against him until he thought he would die of pleasure. When he slipped inside her, it felt perfectly natural – like he had been waiting his whole life to find this woman.

Rillie moaned softly. She stopped moving for a second, then began to rock back and forth on Baelan, riding him skillfully. She leaned down, her small breasts brushing against his chest, and kissed him deeply, moaning into his mouth as Baelan grabbed her hips and thrust sharply upwards. The pleasure filling their bodies was something too great to contain – something too powerful and wonderful and strange – and Baelan could barely control himself as he howled and grunted with pleasure.

“Oh, Rillie,” Baelan groaned. He grabbed her hips and thrust in time with her own motions until they were moving together in a slick, passionate rhythm. Sweat broke out all over his body and he shuddered and grunted as his pleasure swelled inside of him. As Rillie began riding him faster than ever, Baelan felt himself explode inside of her. He reached between their bodies and gently rubbed at the nub of pleasure between Rillie’s thighs, thumbing it until she was moaning and red in the face.

When the air was still and quiet, Rillie lay down, pressing her ear to Baelan’s chest and listening to his heartbeat. She closed her eyes and sighed softly.

Baelan stroked her damp hair away from her forehead. Despite her musky, fragrant scent, he felt as if he could smell the sea in her locks.

“What is it, my love?” Rillie asked softly. Her voice was low and hoarse, and Baelan could feel that her own heart was pounding inside of her chest.

“Nothing,” Baelan replied in a low voice. He reached for Rillie’s hand and laced his fingers with her own, squeezing gently. “Just that I love you.”

Chapter Sixteen

Rillie

Rillie slept all night in Baelan’s arms, dreaming peacefully. Even though her belly was empty and her head was aching from lack of water and food, she couldn’t remember feeling more content. She woke up multiple times during the night and glanced up at the glowing, creamy stars overhead and the green trees of the forest and felt happiness radiate through her body. She was free. As beautiful as Zheka was, Rillie couldn’t wait to leave. Between Queen Zornaya and the threat of Captain Maeraria returning and taking her prisoner once more, Rillie was more than ready to move on to a new life.

So, when she fell back asleep in Baelan’s arms during the wee hours of the morning, she assumed that only happiness and joy lay ahead.

She never expected to wake up and see Queen Zornaya, along with a full army of guards, surrounding them.

“Baelan!” Rillie cried in distress, reaching for her torn shift and pulling it over her head. “Wake up!”

Baelan groaned and rolled over, yawning and rubbing his eyes with both hands.

“Baelan,” Rillie urged, shaking him by the shoulders. “It’s the queen!”

At Rillie’s words of distress, Baelan’s eyes flew open. When he saw Queen Zornaya, his jaw dropped.

The queen was mounted on horseback, and there were at least twelve guards with her. They, too, were on horses and they surrounded Rillie and Baelan in a small circle. The sight of the queen filled Rillie with distress and sadness – just when she thought she was going to escape, the worst had happened yet again.

“What is the meaning of this,” Baelan cried, getting to his feet and quickly yanking his trousers on to cover his nakedness. “What are you doing here?”

The queen bristled angrily. “Why, I should be asking you the same question,” she said angrily. “Baelan, what gives you the right to disobey me?”

Rillie watched as Baelan puffed out his chest arrogantly and shook his head.

“Queen Zornaya, with all due respect, you do not control me,” Baelan said. “And I love Rillie, and we are planning to leave Zheka at once.”

The queen raised an eyebrow. From where she sat on horseback, she looked tremendously intimidating. The look was heightened by her luxurious purple and gold robes that trailed behind her and fell nearly to the ground.

“I see,” the queen said curtly. She turned to Rillie with an odd smile on her face. “So, Baelan, did you heed my request?”

“No,” Baelan said sharply.

Rillie narrowed her eyes and got to her feet. “Baelan, what is she talking about?”

Baelan ignored her. “So, please, queen, leave us – for I renounce my Zhekan citizenship, and thusly, you are no longer my queen. I intend to marry Rillie as soon as possible – whether here, or somewhere else, somewhere that is more accepting of my beloved and her gifts.”

Despite the tense situation at hand, Baelan’s words made Rillie flush.

Queen Zornaya sighed. “You are a fool, Baelan,” she said softly. “Your mother was right about you – you are clearly incapable of making your own decisions.”

Baelan bristled at the insult. Rillie rushed to his side and clutched his hand, gripping it tightly in her own. She squeezed Baelan’s fingers and leaned in close to his ear.

“I love you,” Rillie whispered. “Remember – we are to leave, and all will be well.”

Baelan swallowed and Rillie could tell that he was nervous.

“I will not have that,” Queen Zornaya said. She gracefully dismounted from her horse and walked closer. Rillie felt ashamed of her bedraggled appearance – even though Baelan had still found her lovely, she knew that the queen was taking note of her tattered dress and dirty face.

“Well, then what should we do?” Baelan asked defiantly. “If you will not have us – and you will not have us leave – then I see no choice.”

The queen looked as if Baelan had slapped her across the face.

“Guards!” Queen Zornaya yelled loudly. “Seize them!”

Baelan turned to Rillie and grabbed both of her hands. He leaned in close, pressing his forehead to hers.

“You know what to do,” Baelan hissed under his breath. “Sing!”

Rillie glanced fearfully at the queen. Despite Baelan’s strength and reassurance, she still felt frightened – what if the queen was working with Captain Maeraria? What if she would again be thrown in the dungeons, never to see her love again?

“I know you can do this,” Baelan said quickly. His voice was heated and passionate, as intense as it had been when they had made love. “I believe in you, Rillie!” He pulled her closer and kissed her quickly. “I love you,” Baelan added when the kiss had been broken.

Rillie closed her eyes and opened her mouth to sing. She was trembling in fear and her heart was thudding in her chest, but she knew that as long as Baelan was beside her, she had nothing to fear.

An evil king ruled the lands far away,

Keeping everyone in fear, so they did not go astray

His teachings were fearsome, his voice was like poison,

And all were afraid, no one dared defy the man!

Queen Zornaya’s guards stopped dead in their tracks. Their eyes glazed over and their weapons fell to the ground, their armor clanking noisily as they shifted slowly from one foot to the other.

“What is the meaning of this,” Queen Zornaya cried. “Don’t listen to her! Attack!”

But the guards didn’t listen. They stood there, enchanted, as Rillie’s beautiful voice carried through the trees and air.

Queen Zornaya’s face was purple with rage. She turned on Baelan and brandished a small glass bottle from a bag at her waist.

“In this bottle is a potion that will put you and your beloved creature into a sleep for a thousand years!” The queen bellowed loudly. “And I will not allow you to leave! She is a monstrosity, she is a terror!”

Rillie watched as Baelan stood defiantly before the queen. He wasn’t shaking, or afraid – he looked brave and proud. He took the dagger from his waist and brandished it in the air, pointing the tip of the blade right at Queen Zornaya’s throat.

“You may do exactly that,” Baelan growled in a low voice. “But nothing will destroy the love we have for each other!”

The queen stared. Even Rillie was taken aback by her response to Baelan’s words – it was clear that no one had ever spoken to her in such a manner before. The queen blinked.

“I will fight you, if I have to,” Baelan continued. He stepped forward, waving the dagger in the air. The blade glinted in the rays of the sun and Rillie shivered, thinking of how frequently she’d seen Captain Maeraria use it on the unruly crew.

“Baelan,” Queen Zornaya said. She tossed her head. “If you think you are capable of defeating me, you are wrong.”

A rustling sound from the edge of the forest made Rillie jump. When she turned around, she saw a group of young men. They were all well-dressed with angry expressions on their faces. When Baelan noticed them, he gasped.

“Aerdan!” Baelan yelled. “Huen! Phaelenx!”

The men nodded, stepping into the clearing.

Queen Zornaya went white in the face. “Aerdan, my own son,” she said softly, shaking her head. “What is the meaning of this? What are you planning to do?”

“Selene told us everything,” Aerdan said calmly. His resemblance to Queen Zornaya was so strong that Rillie realized he must be her son. “And I’m sorry, mother – you cannot do this. You are being paranoid, you are not yourself!”

The queen’s face was soon contorted with an ugly anger that made her resemble one of the evil sorceresses in Rillie’s songs.

“You cannot attack me, I will have you all put in the dungeons!” The queen shrieked hysterically. “Aerdan, you cannot betray me! I am your mother!”

The other two men – Huen and Phaelenx – stepped forward with grim looks on their handsome faces. One of them was the largest man Rillie had ever seen – his muscular bulk alone would fill a small cottage.

Aerdan took a sword from his waist and brandished it at the queen. “I am sorry,” he said. “It pains me to do this.” Then he whirled around in the air. His sword made contact with one of the frozen guards, slicing his throat in a clean line. For a moment, the man was silent. Then he began to scream in pain as the wound opened like a floodgate and crimson blood came pouring out, drenching his armor.

“Aerdan!” Queen Zornaya shrieked. “What have you done?”

Baelan leaped quickly to the side, grabbing one of the guards and twisting his arm behind his back. The guard dropped his shield and fell limp against Baelan’s muscular body. Rillie watched with her mouth open as Baelan held the blade of the dagger to the guard’s throat.

“I’ll kill him,” Baelan threatened. “We’ll kill all of your precious guards if you don’t allow me to escape with Rillie!”

Rillie felt like she was in the middle of some horrific dream. She watched as the guard briefly struggled in Baelan’s arms. Phaelenx and Huen grabbed two more guards.

“We’ll kill them all,” Baelan repeated.

Phaelenx growled and grunted, pulling the guard close to his body. He grabbed the guard’s wrist and snapped it with one easy motion. With a scream of pain, the guard fell to the ground.

“Stop this!” Queen Zornaya yelled.

“Not until you agree to be rational,” Aerdan called back. Rillie could tell from his mixed expression that the idea of confronting his mother like this was painful. But she admired his strength.

All of these men, why are they defending me, she thought as she watched from the edge of the trees.

Baelan dropped the guard and launched his body towards the queen. She flung the small glass bottle at the ground and purple and green fumes swirled into the air. Rillie coughed and choked, but Baelan leaped on top of the glass shards until the fumes had faded.

“You will not hurt us,” Baelan said. “Not me, not Rillie – not any of us.”

The queen looked stricken. “You cannot do this,” she said.

“Mother, please,” Aerdan called. “You are delaying the inevitable!”

Queen Zornaya didn’t reply. She merely stared, as if unable to believe that her own son and the royal cousins would betray her like this.

“Your majesty,” Rillie said in a meek voice as she stepped forward and bowed her head in a sign of respect. “Please, do not let them fight you – do not let them kill these guards.” She looked up and made eye contact with the queen. “I know you know I mean well – I would never harm a single person in this country!”

Queen Zornaya was silent for a long time. Her eyes hardened as she stared at Rillie.

“No,” she said after a pause. “I am sorry, but I cannot trust you. I cannot risk my kingdom losing everything we have ever known.”

“Then, my queen, I am sorry,” Baelan said. He held the blade of the dagger out again, pointing it at the queen. There was a loud shriek as Baelan leaped at Queen Zornaya, grabbing her by the waist and pinning her down in the grass. The queen cursed and spat, but Baelan dodged each curse with skillful grace. The air was filled with smog and smoke and clouds of purple fire that Rillie had never seen the likes of, but she couldn’t watch anything but the queen and her lover as they tussled on the ground.

Finally, Baelan pinned Queen Zornaya down and held the blade of the dagger to her throat.

“I do not wish to do this,” Baelan said. “But you are giving me no choice.”

The queen closed her eyes.

“I surrender,” she said softly.

The dagger fell from Baelan’s hand and he rose off the queen as if lifted by magic. The queen got to her feet.

“Aerdan, Baelan, Huen, Phaelenx…” She trailed off, holding her chin high. The men assembled in front of her, flanking each other at the shoulder. The silence was enough to make Rillie sick with anxiety as she wondered what would happen. She didn’t want to be the cause of murder – especially not the murder of the queen, no matter how badly the queen had treated her.

To Rillie’s astonishment, the queen bent her head to the men.

“Aerdan, my son, I am no longer queen of this great land,” Queen Zornaya said in a soft voice. She stood up straight, still managing to look as regal as ever before. “You are now High Commander, and Angelica will be queen.”

Rillie turned to Baelan in shock. She wasn’t sure what she had been expecting, but certainly, it hadn’t been this!

“Yes,” Zornaya continued. “I have seen that I am no longer fit to rule.”

Rillie waited with baited breath for Aerdan to rebuke his mother. Surely Aerdan would refuse! After all, what was he supposed to do?

“Mother, I accept,” Aerdan said. He took a deep breath and stood up straighter than before, looking quite noble himself.

Rillie’s jaw dropped and she blinked with shock.

“Ever since the evil sorceress Namaya came to Zheka and put all of us under her spell, you have not been well,” Aerdan said. He spoke clearly.

Zornaya’s face was a mixture of emotion that Rillie couldn’t decipher.

“Come,” Aerdan said. He offered his arm to Zornaya and she linked her hand through his elbow, resting her fingers on his muscular forearm. “Now we will go to the castle and make the announcement.”

Rillie could hardly believe it. Aerdan helped Zornaya mount her horse, then instructed everyone to meet at the castle. Rillie waited behind, until Baelan was alone, before launching herself at him.

To her surprise, Baelan didn’t look pleased.

“What is wrong, my love,” Rillie asked. She stroked Baelan’s forehead. “Are you unhappy?”

Baelan shook his head. His lips were pressed together in a thin line. He reached down and took Rillie’s hand, twining his fingers with hers and lifting her fist to his mouth before gently kissing the back of her hand.

“No, my love, I am not unhappy,” Baelan said in a low voice. “But it does seem to me that perhaps it would have been easier for her to let us go. I did not intend to bring about such change…or threaten a woman who, for the most part, has ruled with dignity and grace.”

Rillie nodded. She rested her head on Baelan’s shoulder. “I understand,” she said softly.

Chapter Seventeen

Rillie

The coronation of Aerdan and Angelica was held that evening. Baelan borrowed a gown from his sister, Selene, for Rillie to wear. When Rillie was left alone in a luxurious royal bathroom, she felt a sharp wave of excitement and happiness. I get to stay with Baelan, forever, Rillie realized as she sank into the hot water, wincing slightly as it burned the soles of her feet. She stayed in the bath for a long time, until the water grew cool and her skin began to shrivel and prune from soaking.

When Rillie was dressed, she joined Baelan and Selene at the entrance to the royal compound. Selene leaned down and kissed her cheek.

“I am sorry we did not have a proper introduction when we first met,” Selene said. Like Baelan, Selene had dark blue eyes and a mess of dark hair. Her posture was very straight, and her high cheekbones made her look every inch the royal cousin. Then, she smiled and Rillie relaxed.

“It is very good to meet you,” Rillie said. “Baelan has told me quite a bit.”

Selene laughed. “I imagine he has,” she said drily. She swallowed. “Still, I cannot believe it! The queen, stepping down!”

“She was not right after lady Taryn,” Baelan said quietly. He looked troubled, and Rillie went to him and slipped her hand into his.

“This wasn’t your fault,” Rillie said quietly, so only Baelan could hear.

Baelan sighed. “My love, how I wish I could believe that very thing myself,” he replied.

Rillie frowned. “Does this mean that you still wish to leave?”

Baelan shrugged. He turned to Rillie. “What do you want?” His eyes were open and though not exactly warm, Rillie could tell he was being sincere.

“I wish to be with you,” Rillie said simply. “And it does not matter where we go.”

Baelan nodded. He leaned down and placed a kiss on Rillie’s forehead, but he didn’t reply.

As Baelan and Selene led the way from the royal compound to the Zhekan castle, Rillie marveled. She had never seen such splendor, such wonder. Everyone was clothed in rich dress of silks and satins. All of the men were muscular and brawny, although Rillie had to admit that no one was larger than Phaelenx, Selene’s husband. There was a quiet buzz among the people and Rillie realized as they were walking into the great hall of the castle that no one knew what was about to happen.

“Will the people be upset,” Rillie whispered to Baelan. “I know Zornaya was loved.”

“She was,” Baelan agreed. “But I do not think many will mourn. Too many of my friends and cousins have long chafed against the social customs here, and perhaps Angelica will usher in an era of change.”

Before Rillie could reply, a loud trumpet cut through the air. Rillie clutched Baelan’s arm as she followed him into a large room filled with people. There was a large golden altar at the front, where a large throne sat. Zornaya was seated on a small chair to the right of the throne. At the sight of her, everyone fell silent.

Zornaya got to her feet and held her hand in the air. “My beloved people,” she said. Rillie marveled at the way she didn’t raise her voice and yet managed to captivate a huge room. “I welcome you all to greet your new queen and High Commander.”

There was a buzz in the crowd but Zornaya gave a brief shake of her head and the crowd fell silent again.

When Aerdan and Angelica appeared on the golden altar, the crowd began to clap and cheer. Rillie thought Angelica, who was visibly pregnant, looked radiant. Her long dark hair was spread over her shoulders and she was clothed in brilliant purple silks that set off her pale skin. And Aerdan, with his dark hair, pushed away from his forehead, looked handsome and confident.

Zornaya rose from her chair. A courtier rushed in, bearing a small wooden box. Zornaya reached inside and removed a golden crown. She curtseyed to the crowd, then walked to Angelica. Angelica sat down on the golden throne and Zornaya placed the crown upon her head. Then Zornaya gave a low bow to Angelica and Aerdan.

“May our new queen and High Commander rule for many, happy years,” Zornaya said. As she spoke, there was no trace of bitterness in her voice – Rillie even sensed that she was feeling relief.

The applause was nearly deafening. Angelica and Aerdan smiled widely, joining hands as they waved to the crowds. Rillie felt herself getting caught up in the magic of the moment, and she stretched up and kissed Baelan on the cheek.

“Now, we will feast!” Aerdan called loudly over the din of the crowd. The crowd roared even louder.

Rillie stared as the crowd began to push and hurtle through the room. She clutched tightly to Baelan’s hand as he led her away from the crowd and into the great hall.

“I can’t believe it, Aerdan is the High Commander now,” Baelan said with a touch of wonder in his voice. He shook his head and laughed. “I never would have predicted that – not in a million years!”

Rillie smiled uncertainly. “Are you jealous? Do you wish it was you?”

Baelan snorted and shook his head. “No,” he said. “Definitely not.” He pulled Rillie close and kissed her, running his hands over her back. “I prefer this kind of life.”

Rillie flushed and smiled happily. As Baelan led her into the dining hall, she was suddenly filled with anxiety again.

“What if your friends do not care for me,” she asked softly. “What if they see me as the cause of the queen’s abdication?”

Baelan shrugged. “Then they are not my friends, and we will leave Zheka and find new friends,” he replied. The certainty and confidence of his reply were almost astonishing.

“I cannot believe you would give up everything for me,” Rillie said.

Baelan squeezed her hand. “My love, before you, I didn’t have anything at all,” he said.

“That isn’t true,” Rillie replied. She glanced around the grand castle. “You had this – a wonderful life.”

Baelan shrugged. “I suppose,” he said. “But it doesn’t mean much to me. I never cared for the luxuries in life. I only want you.”

Rillie’s cheeks turned pink with pleasure. Baelan took her hand and led her to a small round table. Huen and Phaelenx and Selene were seated there, along with a beautiful woman with long curly pale hair and olive skin that Rillie didn’t recognize.

Baelan cleared his throat and grinned at the group assembled before him. “Friends, if I may, this is Raelina Caulmont.”

“Rillie,” Rillie interrupted. “Please, no one calls me that.”

“I like it,” Baelan said. He cocked his head to the side and smirked at her. “I think it’s pretty – just like you are.”

Rillie flushed. To her surprise, Phaelenx, Huen, and Selene looked pleased to see her. The unfamiliar woman was smiling, too.

“Rillie, you met Huen and Phaelenx in the forest, and I’ve introduced you to my sister, Selene,” Baelan continued. “But this is Aine – Huen’s wife.” He smiled kindly.

Rillie smiled. “It’s very nice to meet you all,” she said softly.

“Join us,” Selene said. She patted the bench beside her. “I’d very much like to get to know my new—“

“Selene!” Baelan said. He narrowed his eyes, speaking reproachfully. “She does not yet know.”

Rillie turned to Baelan and frowned. “Know what?”

Baelan smirked. He pulled Rillie close and wrapped his arms around her waist before leaning down to kiss her passionately. Rillie flushed, but she couldn’t help but give herself over to Baelan, and she wrapped her arms around his neck, moaning softly in his mouth.

Baelan’s friends were clapping and cheering and Rillie pulled away, blushing hotly. She gave Baelan a curious look.

“What is it?” Rillie asked.

For once, Baelan almost looked nervous. Then he took both of Rillie’s pale hands in his own and kissed them.

“Rillie Caulmont, please, I would be the happiest man in Zheka if you would agree to be my wife.”

Rillie’s jaw dropped.

“I am serious,” Baelan continued. He leaned in close and pressed his forehead to Rillie’s. His blue eyes were large with sincerity.

“Yes,” Rillie whispered. She closed her eyes, feeling as if she had suddenly entered a dream state. Between the excitement in the forest and now this, Rillie was unsure if she’d ever been able to keep up.

Baelan reached into his pocket and pulled out a small golden band engraved with roses. He reached for Rillie’s hand and slipped the ring onto her finger before taking her hand once more and turning to his group of friends.

“Friends, may I introduce Rillie again,” Baelan said proudly, leaning down to kiss Rillie’s cheek. “As my fiancée.”

The table erupted into loud cheers. Selene got to her feet and hugged Rillie.

“It will be so good to have a sister,” Selene whispered in Rillie’s ear. “And an ally against these men!”

Rillie laughed. She couldn’t ever remember being so happy…except for maybe in the safety and security of Baelan’s arms, hidden away in the forest. As she looked at Baelan’s handsome face, she somehow knew she would feel this happiness forever.

Chapter Eighteen

Rillie

Rillie could hardly between it as the days turned into weeks. Queen Angelica had given Baelan and Rillie their own apartment in the royal compound, but Rillie rarely saw Baelan – he was often down at the docks, or out at sea with the other members of the Zhekan navy. Rillie had hoped that Queen Angelica would abolish the navy – obviously, it was a failed project – but unfortunately, she had done little yet as queen. Baelan hinted during the few moments that he was home that she was having a difficult pregnancy, as well as learning as much as possible from the Zornaya, who had agreed to stay on as a royal advisor until Angelica and Aerdan were more firmly in place.

But Rillie couldn’t help but wonder whether or not she and Baelan would ever get to enjoy a quiet life to themselves.

Finally, the night before their wedding came. Baelan was granted three days’ leave from the navy, and he came back to the royal apartment in high spirits. Rillie had organized a special meal for him – she’d had the cook make all of Baelan’s favorite dishes – and she greeted her betrothed at the door with a kiss.

Baelan grinned. Rillie did have to admit that spending more time in the sun on board the ships had deepened his tan and strengthened his muscles. Now, he was almost brawny instead of lean.

“Hello, my love,” Baelan said. He dipped down and kissed Rillie on the cheek.

Rillie smiled. “I am so pleased to see you,” she said.

“Have Selene and Aine been treating you with kindness?”

“Oh, yes,” Rillie replied. “Selene has helped me with my gown for tomorrow.”

Baelan grinned. He kissed Rillie again, this time on the lips, pulling her close and wrapping his arms around her waist. Rillie purred in his arms before breaking away.

“The cooks are coming by soon with dinner,” Rillie said. She smiled. “And then we can enjoy a nice meal together.”

Baelan chuckled. “The men were teasing me,” he said, raking a hand through his dark, tousled hair.

“Oh?”

“Saying that I’ve finally become domesticated,” Baelan replied, snickering. “If you could see them swinging around on the ropes, you would laugh, too.”

Rillie laughed politely.

“My love, why are you so quiet?” Baelan asked. “What is the matter?”

Rillie bit her lip. “Baelan, will your mother accept me? And what of Aya? I know you were betrothed.”

Baelan sighed. He sat down in a chair by the fire and warmed his hands. The weather had begun to change, and spending all day outside had left him chilled to the bone.

“My mother only wishes that Aya and I had been promised to each other,” Baelan said. “And I wish for her to come around, but perhaps it is not possible. She was not thrilled when Selene married Phaelenx, but now that they are planning for a family, she is much warmer.”

Rillie wrinkled her nose. She didn’t much like the idea of a mother-in-law who only saw her as a breeding vessel.

Baelan laughed. “Don’t pout, love,” he said. He pulled his boots off and stretched his feet out before the blazing fire. “You don’t need my mother’s approval – you will always have mine.”

As always, Baelan’s comforting words made Rillie feel better. She smiled, genuinely this time, and went to prepare the table for supper.

Rillie and Baelan were served a huge meal. Roast lamb, pork loin, and grilled chicken were laid out on the massive table.

“Why, this is enough food for ten people,” Rillie said. She gingerly poked her fork into a piece of lamb. Despite the delicious smells wafting in front of her nose, she found that she had little appetite.

Baelan, on the other hand, was wolfing down a huge plate of food. Rillie smiled indulgently as she watched him shovel down forkful after forkful of lamb.

“Are you feeling all right, love?”

Rillie nodded.

“Are you nervous about tomorrow?”

Rillie flushed. Selene had talked her through the basics of a Zhekan ceremony – but she was still a little unsure. What if something happened with Arsinoe? Or Aya arrived, and threw a fit that she wasn’t Baelan’s bride? Rillie’s stomach was pitching about in her body like a ship in a storm, and she felt almost nauseous as she stared at the table laden with food.

But Baelan’s smile was reassuring.

“No, love,” Rillie said. She forced herself to eat a small mouthful of lamb. “I feel perfectly fine.”

After dinner, Rillie and Baelan went to bed. Baelan fell asleep immediately, but Rillie lay awake on the silken sheets, tossing and turning until her limbs ached and she was sweating heavily.

A loud, sudden sound startled Rillie and she jumped, clutching the silken counterpane to her chest.

“Baelan,” Rillie hissed. “What is that?”

Baelan faintly stirred, mumbling and rolling over in bed. He groaned and rubbed his eyes. “What?”

“That sound,” Rillie whispered. There it was again – a loud thump, that sounded like it was coming from the door to their suite.

“What sound?” Baelan sat up in bed. Aside from a few embers in the grate, their cozy fire had gone out and the room felt damp and chill. “Rillie, what did you hear?”

Rillie’s heart was in her throat and she could barely speak. The sound came again, louder than before.

Baelan leaped out of bed and grabbed his trousers, pulling them on his muscular legs. “Stay here,” he hissed. He walked quickly to the fire and lit a torch, then moved out of the bedroom.

Rillie was unable to stay silent. Something horrible was happening, and her beloved might be in danger. As quietly as she could, she crept along the hall, ducking in doorways so Baelan wouldn’t see her.

The thumping grew louder and louder until Rillie was positive it was right outside of their door. Baelan grabbed a sword that was hanging on the wall and brandished it with his free hand. The door burst open, and Rillie gasped, covering her mouth with both hands at the sight.

Captain Maeraria burst in, her dark eyes gleaming in the dim light. If she was shocked at the sight of Baelan, she didn’t show it.

“You!” Baelan growled. “What in the name of the gods are you doing here?”

“I have come to take what is rightfully mine,” Maeraria crowed triumphantly. The sound of her rough voice sent shivers down Rillie’s spine and she pressed herself against the doorway, hoping to conceal herself in the shadowy hall.

“Rillie doesn’t belong to you, or anyone else!” Baelan cried. Then he launched forward with the sword.

The sound of Maeraria’s scream chilled Rillie. Baelan had plunged the sword into her chest and she crumpled to the floor, bleeding profusely.

“Rillie!” Baelan yelled. “To safety, come! With me!”

Trembling with fear, Rillie darted into the hallway. The sword was still plunged into Maeraria’s chest, and blood was bubbling out of her nose and mouth. Rillie could see the life leaving her body as she lay on the richly carpeted floor.

Dashing forward, Rillie grabbed Baelan’s hand. He led her at a fast pace into the main hall of the royal compound, waving the torch like a beacon.

Royals were rushing into the center of the compound in various states of dress, gasping when they saw Baelan and Rillie. Baelan’s eyes were wild and fierce.

Huen pushed his way through the crowd. “I’ll go get the queen!” He yelled before turning on his heel and sprinting out of the compound.

Just as Rillie was beginning to feel safe and secure again, she gasped at the sight of Maeraria’s crew, led by Flint. He looked just as hard as ever, and Rillie shuddered.

When Flint saw Rillie, he laughed. “Calm down,” he said. “We mean you no harm.” He shook his head. “The captain drugged the whole crew. When we woke up, we knew exactly where she’d gone – we’ve come to help you.”

Rillie blinked in surprise. “Thank you,” she said softly. Her head was spinning, and for a dreadful moment, she was afraid that she would pass out.

“Rillie,” Baelan said urgently. “Go back to bed.” He puffed out his chest. “I will stay until this is resolved.”

“No,” Rillie said. She stood straight and tall. “My place is by your side.”

It seemed like no time at all before Aerdan and Queen Angelica were rushing into the royal compound. Angelica looked disheveled but regal, and when she saw the crowd of strange men in the hall, her eyes grew wide.

“We were the crew of Captain Maeraria,” Flint explained. “She broke into the compound.”

“She is dead,” Baelan said tonelessly. He dropped his sword and it clattered to the stone floor with a loud clang. Rillie looked down and bit her lip at the sight of crimson blood staining the blade.

Queen Angelica nodded. Aerdan stepped forward and cleared his throat. “So, you are free,” he said to Flint.

“Aye.”

“How would you like to earn Zhekan citizenship?” Aerdan asked. “You and your men are obviously much more fit sailors than our own navy. If you sail with us, you will enjoy many privileges.”

Flint’s narrow face broke into a wide grin. “Aye,” he said again, stepping forward and sticking out his hand. Aerdan shook it heartily, and the crowd cheered.

“I am pleased to introduce our new navy,” Queen Angelica said, clearing her throat. The crowd fell silent. “And Baelan?”

“Aye?” Baelan turned to the queen. “What is it?”

“You are hereby released from your naval duties,” Queen Angelica said.

Baelan grinned. He pulled Rillie into a close hug. As Rillie closed her eyes and rested her head against that of her betrothed, she realized that the horror was finally over.

“It’s over,” Baelan whispered to Rillie.

Tilting her face up to his, Rillie kissed him gently. “Aye,” she said softly. “It is, indeed.”

--

There was much celebrating and carousing that night, although neither Baelan nor Rillie took part. They went back to their chamber and climbed back into bed. This time, Rillie fell asleep without a second thought.

In the morning, when Rillie woke up, the sun was shining bright and high in the sky. She sat up in bed and yawned. Glancing over to Baelan’s side, she saw that he was missing.

Selene was standing in front of the bed, holding a brilliant blue silk gown. “I have told Baelan to stay away until later,” she said with a mischievous grin. “It is bad luck, you know.”

Rillie flushed. “Thank you,” she said.

Selene beckoned Rillie forward. “I will help you dress,” she said. “Would you like breakfast? The cook sent up a large tray.”

Rillie glanced over to the small table by the fire and saw a large silver platter loaded with eggs, sausages, and a pot of honey. It smelled delicious, but her stomach was still upset.

“No,” she said quietly. “I am nervous.”

Selene gave her a kind smile. “Do not worry, Rillie,” she said. “I may have had some doubts about my brother, but I am sure he will make you very happy indeed.”

Rillie smiled so widely that her cheeks hurt. She slid out of bed and walked over to Selene. Selene pulled off Rillie’s nightshift and handed her a silken slip. Rillie pulled it over her head, then Selene helped her with the silk gown. The brilliant cobalt blue set off Rillie’s pale skin and blonde hair. Her grey eyes almost looked like sapphires against the beautiful color of the silk.

“You look very beautiful,” Selene said. She stepped back to admire her handiwork. “Now, come with me. It is time for you and my brother to wed.”

Epilogue

Two Years Later

“Daughter!” Gwiven bellowed. “Is this what you call a breakfast?”

Rillie laughed and bent at the waist to kiss her father’s cheek. It wasn’t easy work – her pregnant belly stuck far out and she grunted slightly.

“I jest,” Gwiven said kindly.

Rillie nodded. “You know we are having a large meal soon,” she said, wrinkling her nose at the scent of sausages. Ever since she had born her first child, almost a year and a half ago, she hadn’t been able to stomach the smell. “With the High Commander and the queen, isn’t that nice?”

Gwiven laughed. “Dear, I have been here for some time now,” he said. “And if you’re seeking to impress me with your airs, it will not work.”

Rillie flushed. “Aye,” she said, dipping her head slightly. “Father, please watch over Flint while I dress.”

“He’ll be spoiled by the time you get back,” Gwiven said proudly. He reached down and took the small child onto his lap. Flint gurgled and laughed, and Rillie stood for a moment as tears of happiness formed in her eyes.

“Not too spoiled, I hope,” Rillie muttered under her breath. She walked into her bedchamber and shut the door behind her. Baelan lay on the bed, staring at the ceiling.

“My love, what is it?” Rillie asked. She sat gingerly on the edge of the soft mattress. “Are you feeling unwell?”

“Not at all,” Baelan replied. “It seems that my mother has finally come around – she will be joining us for dinner tonight.”

“Oh,” Rillie replied. She forced a smile. The thought wasn’t a pleasant one. Arsinoe hadn’t been present at their wedding, nor at the birth of Flint. And Rillie wasn’t expecting her at the birth of their second child, either, although privately that was a relief. Giving birth in a room full of royal cousins had been arduous enough, she wasn’t sure she wanted another member of the family added to the audience.

“I thought you would be pleased.” Baelan sat up and took Rillie in his arms, kissing her. “And you are as beautiful as ever!”

“I am as big as ever,” Rillie said sarcastically, looking down at her swollen stomach. “I don’t think this little one will stay much longer.”

“Aine will attend to you after the meal,” Baelan said. He kissed her cheek. “And you are always beautiful to me.”

Flushing hotly, Rillie got to her feet and began unlacing the bodice of her gown. Baelan got up and took Rillie’s silk gown from the press before lowering it over her head.

“It isn’t right, you helping me dress,” Rillie said, although secretly the gesture thrilled her. Baelan had been the most loving, supportive husband she could have ever imagined – not to mention, a wonderful father. At one time, the idea of having children had terrified Rillie. What if they grew up living in poverty, dealing with the curse of having a talent like hers? But Flint showed no sign of Rillie’s magical voice, and Rillie was grateful. Although Queen Angelica was very fond of her, Rillie wasn’t about to upset the royal balance once again.

When her silk gown was laced and the slippers were on her feet, Rillie allowed Baelan to lead her out of their apartment and into the great hall where a table had been set. Huen and Aine were already there. They smiled at the sight of Rillie, and Aine got to her feet and eased Rillie down into a comfortable seat.

“You are bigger by the day!” Aine remarked. “It won’t be long now.”

“Thank the gods,” Rillie said. “I do not think I can wait much longer!”

Aine laughed. “The last moon is always the worst.” She put her hand on Rillie’s belly. “And the baby! How she kicks!”

Rillie blinked in surprise. “You think it is a girl?”

Aine nodded confidently.

“Trust her about these things,” Huen said, leaning over the table and smirking. “She is never wrong – and I lost quite a bit of coin once, betting that she was.”

Rillie flushed. Baelan sat beside her and put an arm around her, bringing her close. Rillie was just about to take a sip of mead when she heard her name. She stood up and turned around to see Arsinoe.

Arsinoe looked at Rillie with a mixture of shame and pleasure.

“Rillie, my dear,” she said softly.

Rillie bit her lip.

“Please,” Arsinoe said. She held out her hand. After a moment, Rillie took it. Arsinoe led her away from the table and up close, Rillie saw that her eyes were filled with tears.

“Aye?” Rillie asked. It was difficult to keep a neutral expression in the face of tears.

“I am so sorry,” Arsinoe said. She sighed heavily. “I…I see how happy you have made my son, and I know that no other woman – no matter her origin – would have been able to do likewise.”

Rillie flushed.

“And I hope this is a new beginning between us,” Arsinoe continued. She squeezed Rillie’s hand. “Please.”

Rillie took a deep breath. “Yes,” she said. “I hope so, as well.”

Arsinoe gave her a small smile. “Take your place at the table, dear, they are waiting for you.” She released Rillie’s hand. “Thank you, again.”

Rillie nodded. She walked back to the table on unsteady legs. As she took her place by Baelan, she looked around at the faces of Huen, Aine, Selene, and Phaelenx. My life is wonderful, Rillie thought. I am surrounded by so much love, love that I would never have been able to comprehend before.

Out of the corner of her eye, Rillie saw Gwiven walking slowly into the room, holding little Flint by the hand. Rillie broke into a wide grin.

“I am so happy,” Rillie said to Baelan. “I never thought it would happen.”

And as Baelan leaned over to kiss her cheek, Rillie knew that her happiness would last for the rest of her life.