{"title":"Ladies in Waiting Ebook Bundle","description":"\u003ch1\u003eAdventure \u0026amp; Romance Series\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA series of hot but not explicit historical romance novels featuring strong-willed heroines and the complex men who pursue them.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eThe Series\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eThe Woman Inside\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne look at Uric's mother—known throughout the land as the fearsome Ogress—and his potential brides flee in terror. When his queen sends the legendary berserker on a quest to retrieve a healer rumored to be a witch, Uric can't resist bringing the beauty home. Surely a witch would be more than a match for an ogre's son...\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCeylon, bound by duty to serve her queen, reluctantly accepts Lord Uric's escort to Queenstown despite his intimidating reputation and the unsettling rumors about his mother. Determined to resist his romantic pursuit, she unknowingly rides straight into political intrigue that will shake the foundations of her nation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBetween Ceylon's determination to maintain her independence and Uric's unexpected attraction, their journey becomes far more complicated than either anticipated.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eThe Other Woman\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlly craves passion and adventure after years of a cold, neglected marriage. She's ready to seek a lover and begin anew—there's just one obstacle: her husband.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRoland returns after ten years at war to discover his child bride has transformed into a sharp-tongued, captivating woman. Though her words cut like a sword's edge, her body promises nights of raw passion. If only he could overcome what he believes is her hatred.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBut hatred isn't what drives Ally to flee Roland's touch. A much more complicated emotion has her running. Being an unwanted wife was painful enough; this time she refuses to become the other woman.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs misconceptions unravel and true feelings emerge, both must decide if the connection they feel is worth fighting for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePerfect for fans of:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHistorical romance with strong-willed heroines\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEpic love stories with enemies-to-lovers dynamics\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAdventure and intrigue woven through emotional journeys\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRomance that sizzles without explicit content\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese passionate tales deliver emotionally satisfying journeys where initial resistance gives way to deep connection, all wrapped in adventures that test both heart and courage.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"ladies-in-waiting-book-1","title":"The Woman Inside: Ladies in Waiting, Book 1 (Ebook)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eA standalone fantasy romance with magic, political sabotage, and one terrifying future mother-in-law. Book 1 in the Ladies in Waiting series.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOne look at Uric’s mother and his fiancées run screaming. Known as the Ogress, her fearsome reputation is almost scarier than Uric’s own. So when his queen sends him on a quest to bring back a healer rumored to be a witch, he can’t resist taking the beauty home. Surely a witch is more than a match for an ogre…\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDuty bound to serve her queen, Ceylon is still not happy to travel with Lord Uric, the queen’s berserker. His prowess in battle is legendary, and then there are the rumors about his mother…\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDetermined to elude his romantic pursuit, she accepts his escort to Queenstown, unknowingly riding straight into an intrigue that will rock her nation.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-italic\"\u003eA hot, but not explicit, romance novel\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-bold\"\u003eReaders are saying:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e“\u003cspan class=\"a-text-italic\"\u003e5.0 out of 5 stars. Any girl who was an ugly duckling is going to love this book!”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch1 style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e✨\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRead a sample now:\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch1 class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCHAPTER 1\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\u003ci\u003eIn another world, another time....\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon stared at the dark red paste in her mortar. Twenty-three years of being ugly was about to change. Twenty-three years of being the ‘horror of Marksheath’ was nearly over.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eGears whirred in her father’s old grandfather clock, marking the minutes. The scattered beakers, glass tubes, and copper distillers littering her workbench testified to her many experiments. A huge leather book sat open on a stand near her, a slimmer journal on top, weighted with a large brass magnifying glass. Shelves of books lined the walls, still smelling of her father’s pipe smoke, though he’d been dead for some time. She was alone.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eEyes fixed on the hand mirror, Ceylon briskly applied the bloodroot paste over the red stain on her cheek. Born with it, she had endured the pity and revulsion of strangers, but by all that was holy, she would not endure it another day.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHerb lore had fascinated Ceylon since childhood, and she’d spent a great deal of time accumulating knowledge and experimenting on herself. Her studies filled several journals she planned to compile into a book. Her workspace shelves were lined with both ancient texts and modern translations, along with jars of herbs, pots of ointments, pills, and tinctures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHer jaw tightened as she replaced the tiny pot’s lid. Ugly, reclusive, and a spinster, she knew she might have been dangerously close to being labeled a witch had she not been the Squire’s daughter. Thankfully, the villagers had gotten used to his strange experiments. No one had been surprised when his daughter followed his odd ways; hardly anyone called her a witch.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eLong gone, but still protecting her… it was so like him.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eShe pushed aside the memories and reassured herself that the paste would work. The small mole she’d tested it on had gotten red, scabbed, and fallen off, hadn’t it? With a little help from her special salve, it had healed without a scar. The wretched birthmark would go, too.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eShe stared at herself in the mirror, jittery with anticipation. Everything was about to change.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cb\u003eOne Year Later...\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“It’s said she can turn the sorriest hag into a beauty to rival Venus.” With all eyes on him, the velvet-clad courtier bowed low before Her Majesty, Queen Callion of the Nine Kingdoms. The clockwork bird on his hat whirred, flapping tiny wings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eQueen Callion inclined her head, a slight frown on her face as she listened. She’d heard such promises before.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHer sisters, the princesses, were far more eager. “Tell us more!” The eldest and largest of the three demanded, leaning forward. “Was she truly the ugliest maiden in the land?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Worse,” assured the courtier, who had never laid eyes on the woman in question. He hoped it was true, for the anticipated reward for success would be substantial.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThe middle sister, as scrawny as her sister was plump, eyed him suspiciously. The lower half of her face was covered in a veil to hide the warts on her chin. Even exorcism hadn’t been able to cure the stubborn affliction. “You say she cures warts?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHe snapped his ringed fingers. “As easy as this!”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“And skin blemishes?” breathed the youngest sister, who was covered in terrible pimples.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Of course! And for a basket of eggs, she’ll even cure boils.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThe princesses exhaled as one and turned hopeful eyes to their sister, the Queen.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHer majesty suppressed the urge to sigh. What would it hurt? She would never be able to arrange marriages for her sisters in their present state.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eShe caught the courtier’s eye and lifted one imperious finger. “Bring her to me.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"western\" align=\"center\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cb\u003e***\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon eyed the caged chicken. The chicken stared back in dismay. It was clear that the relationship was never going to work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eLoath to let down the hopeful peasant woman, she said reluctantly, “I’m afraid that I have plenty of chickens just now....”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThe woman’s face fell.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“But if it were to come back in the form of a pie....” Ceylon had eaten one too many chicken pies lately, but surely she could choke down another. Most of the people who came to her for help didn’t have much, but their pride insisted that they pay her however they could. Unfortunately, livestock was the method of choice.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThe woman beamed, revealing two copper teeth. “Bless you, lass! I make a chicken pie like no other. This fellow will be ready for you by supper.” She patted the wicker cage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon slanted the alarmed bird a wry look. “Right. Now, how can I help you?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThe farmer’s wife planted her bottom on the kitchen bench and bent over, her frowzy head disappearing beneath the table as she did something with her shoes. “It’s me feet.” She freed one and held the large appendage up where Ceylon could see it. “I’ve got fungus.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon bit her bottom lip, swallowing a laugh as the woman plopped her foot in Ceylon’s lap and looked at her expectantly. She cradled the ankle in her hand and raised the foot to the light. “All right, then. Let’s see what we can do for you.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThe fungus had eaten into the woman’s toenails and spread all over the foot, but Ceylon was confident they could cure it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Just remember to soak it in vinegar water, keep it dry, and use that cream I gave you,” she instructed the woman as she walked her to the door. Six people were seated outside on the firewood she used as stools. Ceylon nodded to them. “Sunset’s coming, so you’ll be my last patients for the day. Tell whoever comes next to take a marker to be in line tomorrow.” She gestured toward the peg in her wall\u003cspan\u003e that held the tin vouchers indicating the morning line-up.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHis ogress of a mother was the reason he’d been forced to travel nearly every road in the land, through sleet, storm, and fog in search of a bride. He’d found dozens willing, had brought home five, only to have them run squealing back to their fathers in mortal terror of his mother. At this point, even a witch for a wife was beginning to sound appealing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eBut was it too much to ask, he thought wistfully, that his wife be attractive? The women he’d brought home were average, but he’d been in search of a sweet temper to counteract his mother’s poison. Having failed, he’d settle for a woman who had all her teeth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eIt would have been easier if he’d stayed a farmer’s son, he thought bitterly. Elevation to the mistress of Wormhurst, a post his mother had appropriated after he was awarded the lands and title of baron, had only deepened her vanity and need to control. Nor was she in a hurry to give up her position to Uric’s wife; the woman he married would have complete control over his household.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHis only choice was to marry a woman strong enough to stand up to Maude, yet with character enough not to become a dictator. As his buck’s quick stride ate up the distance to the castle, Uric wondered if such a woman existed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"center\"\u003e***\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“If you want to get a husband, you’ve got to learn to flirt.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon rolled her head and favored her friend Calisto with an amused stare. “I don’t flirt.” The deep window seat she occupied had an excellent view of the courtyard. The day was grim, the wind chill. Those outside walked quickly, their heads bent against the brisk fall winds.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUnperturbed by Ceylon’s negative attitude, Calisto raised her brows. “You don’t flirt, you dance like a drunken farmer, and you own more leather than dresses. Still, I have hope for you.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon snorted and drew up a knee. “I’m quite the woman, aren’t I?” She smiled in self-mockery. “So pure, so radiant…” she quoted some of her suitors, the same men who hadn’t noticed her before her face healed. Amazing how they saw her now.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Purity is overrated.” Calisto jabbed a pin into the birthday dress she was sewing for Ceylon and yelped. She shook her hand and grimaced. “I should have commissioned you a letter opener. Something less painful.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Something more likely to be used,” Ceylon agreed helpfully.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“You’ll wear it or eat it.” Calisto tossed aside the green velvet and considered her friend. “You need to be nicer.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHere it comes. Ceylon widened her eyes in mock interest, even though she’d heard this speech before. With flawless red hair and a ladylike walk, Calisto was constantly surrounded by admiring suitors. She was also determined to mold Ceylon into her image. “I really should, shouldn’t I?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCalisto ignored the sarcasm and put her sewing things away. “For your own good, if not theirs.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon stiffened. So Calisto had decided to heal the healer, had she? Well, good luck! “And flirting is good because…?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThe seamstress sighed. “This coldness of yours does you no good.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eAnnoyed now, Ceylon sat up. “And how is it my fault that men are stupid? If they want to be shallow, I see no reason to encourage them.” Ever since her face had healed and men had seen what was underneath, their attitudes toward her had drastically changed. Men who’d barely noticed her suddenly watched her with hungry eyes. A few of the boys, now men, who’d grown up taunting her had reversed their tune and now attempted to court her. Old men, youths barely old enough to leave their mamas; all of them watched her. Raven was the only one who didn’t drool, but then he was vocal about his preference for buxom blondes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eSome of those men had been more than cruel. Gilroy had actually held her down and rubbed dung on her face when they were children. Dung face, he’d called her. That’s the kind of men who wanted her now.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHer chest squeezed. She was the same person behind the flawless skin, the same green eyes. Her smile was white, when it showed, and hadn’t her dark hair always been glossy? It was her face they wanted now, not the woman she’d always been. If she were scarred tomorrow, they’d want nothing to do with her.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eTheir hypocrisy sickened her.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon looked beyond the leaded glass at the gray day. A red bird flew by as she watched, a bright flash of color against the rain-swollen clouds. She wished she could fly away, too.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eInstead, she tried on the dress her friend had made.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“I’m not sure about this.” Ceylon tugged at the square bodice of the green gown. Air danced across her exposed skin. A gold-embroidered belt draped her hips and highlighted her figure, but it didn’t feel natural. “It needs more cloth.” A lot more. If Gilroy ever saw her in this, she could kiss her virtue goodbye.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“It needs nothing,” Calisto retorted and helped her down from the stool. “Let me help you. We don’t want to disturb the hem pins.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon threw on a loose peasant top and carelessly knotted the matching skirt at her waist as she waited for her clothes to be finished. The loose shirt was far too big and kept sagging, but Calisto was nearly finished.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCalisto had snatched Ceylon’s leathers when Ceylon changed, determined that she would walk out of here looking like a lady. In light of Calisto’s excitement, Ceylon let her have her moment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon doubted she had the personality to carry off the makeover. In the past, because of her marked face, she’d faded into invisibility when men caught sight of Calisto; hardly surprising, for she was a true beauty.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThat was no longer a problem, and she didn’t want Gilroy or his brothers drooling over her. She would have gladly skipped the dinner Lady Tennyson was giving, but she’d been commanded to appear. Ever since she’d cured her daughter’s vicious pimples, Lady Tennyson had fawned over Ceylon, spreading the word of her daughter’s cure far and wide. Now she was intent on securing Ceylon’s exclusive services as her private beauty consultant. Leery of being trapped in the castle on a daily basis with Lady Tennyson’s pig sons, Ceylon had been quietly fighting her fate. Only her position as an important healer had kept her safe, but she wasn’t sure how long she could resist without invoking her ladyship’s disfavor.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eOblivious to Ceylon’s thoughts, Calisto gave her a brilliant smile. “You look wonderful! Now you just have to keep away from Gilroy, and you’ll have a great evening.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“That’s a fun thought,” Ceylon said grumpily. “But thank you for your hard work. The dress is very nice.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eAbout to respond, Calisto shrieked in outrage and darted after her white monkey. It was dragging one of Ceylon’s favorite boots out of the bedroom. “Hey, you! Stop!”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCaught up in his favorite game and thrilled to have an audience, the monkey flashed her a wicked grin and darted through the door flap, screeching.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Stupid monkey!” Ceylon shouted. Last time it took a week to find her boot, and it had been in the stables, covered in muck. Furious, Ceylon hiked her borrowed skirts and dashed after him.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric looked up to see a woman dashing down the wooden stairs. The stairs were old and steep, leading to the upper room of a house built against the castle wall. They looked unsafe for walking, let alone running in skirts. Shouting threats at a monkey dragging a boot, she struggled to keep her loose clothes from falling off.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHer roar of outrage sounded across the yard as the monkey leaped from the stairs and into the nearest espaliered pear. “Bloody thief!” she yelled, oblivious to a dozen mounted strangers watching with fascination. “Come back with my boot!”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThe monkey noticed the riders before she did and froze in indecision; a tactical error. With a whoop of triumph, the girl swooped down on him. As she snatched her boot, her skirt chose to surrender to gravity. In the confusion of the moment, she neglected to drop the boot, and as she sank in an attempt to keep the skirt around her hips, her shirt slipped dangerously.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eOnly then, when she was down on her knees and in danger of an involuntary disrobing, did she notice the hooves of Uric’s stag.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric watched as her brilliant green eyes tracked up Behemoth’s long black limbs. They skipped up Uric’s leg and finally settled on his face.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHer lips parted. For a moment, it seemed as if she wanted to drink him in.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eA beautiful, hopefully available young woman. With all her teeth. He flashed her his best smile.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eInstead of smiling back, she stiffened, and an expression of mortification crossed her face. Her hand tightened on her clothes. Hot color stained her fair skin, and she frowned. “I could use some assistance,” she informed him sternly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHe couldn’t prevent a grin. There she was, dressed like a peasant, sitting in the dust, and she ordered him around like a queen. Chuckles surrounded him as he swung down from his mount. “Anything for you, fair maid.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eAnd she was fair, he noted as he gathered her into his arms. More than fair with those snapping green eyes and pretty pink lips.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Put me down!” she hissed as he hefted her easily, her panicked gaze swinging to his men as she gripped his leather armor. “I can walk.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“True, but I doubt you can remain dressed,” he countered. “But if that’s what you want...” He pretended to lower her.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“No!” She clung to him, no doubt knowing that the act would expose more than her dainty feet. “I...” She glanced toward the stairs she’d descended in such a rush. “I need to go there.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eObligingly, Uric strode up the steps. “What’s your name, sweetheart?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eShe frowned forbiddingly at his endearment. “Doctor Ceylon,” she informed him, her mouth set in a firm line.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHe smiled. Better and better.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eShe was embarrassed and prickly; he could understand that. He would like to see her in a better mood. A smiling, laughing Ceylon would be something.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric looked her over, already planning their first night. When was the last time he’d felt such an instant attraction to a woman?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“And what does your man call you?” he inquired, intensely curious. He prayed she had no such thing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eShe looked away. “I have none, happily.” Her tone made it clear she liked it that way.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“That’s good news,” he said cheerfully as he pushed aside the door flap and set her down. Temporarily blinded by the shadowed interior, he could guess that her gasp signaled the loss of clothing. The image brought a wide smile to his face. “Until later, sweet Ceylon.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“You left me on purpose!”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCalisto smiled smugly. “Of course I did.” She sighed dramatically. “Have you ever seen a face like that? So handsome!”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“I was almost naked!” Ceylon hissed. Her heart was still beating far too fast, and no wonder. The moment she’d laid eyes on the man she’d thought it might stop. With short golden curls and blue eyes, the man was handsome. He probably knew it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“He seemed to like you.” Calisto laughed at Ceylon’s expression.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“It isn’t funny!”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCalisto smirked. “I couldn’t quite see; was that a diamond winking in his ear?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon crossed her arms and looked out the window, determined to ignore her. She knew exactly what Calisto was up to.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eSly now, Calisto added, “And such broad shoulders! He carried you up here, wearing full armor, and wasn’t even winded.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“I’m not that big.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Nor is he as tall as some knights, but that should be more comfortable when he kisses you.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon’s body steamed; the man was the embodiment of her every midnight fantasy. “Don’t be foolish, Calisto! He’s a knight, which probably means he has an exalted opinion of himself and a bad case of the pox. If he comes to me, it will likely be for a cure.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCalisto choked.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Don’t laugh. You’d be surprised how many handsome men come to me for medicine when it starts itching.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCalisto’s eyes bugged. “Like who?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon crossed her arms and looked smug. “Wouldn’t you like to know? Just do yourself a favor and consult me before you choose a husband, would you? It might save you grief.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003ePoxed or not, Ceylon’s knight was in the great hall that evening as Ceylon made her way to the table. He stood by the fireplace, outlined by its flames. There was nothing warlike about his formal attire, but with a man like that, it didn’t matter. His military stance told you who he was.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eLady Tennyson’s daughter Annette stood at his side, a trifle too close. Her breathy laughter carried across the hall. A man Ceylon vaguely remembered stood beside them, providing the young lady with another welcome distraction.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eGilroy was there, too.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Healer Ceylon.” Lady Tennyson greeted her warmly, though she looked less than pleased by Ceylon’s improved appearance. Perhaps because her daughter was still unattached and flirting madly with her handsome guest? “Your dress is lovely, my dear.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“A birthday gift from Calisto the Seamstress.” Ceylon smiled. “She feared I might wear my boots to the table if she didn’t prevent it.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“She might have been right.” Gilroy appeared at his mother’s side, a drink in hand. Judging by his red eyes, it wasn’t his first. Dressed in scarlet, he looked Ceylon over boldly and with less restraint than usual. It made him ugly. “I wonder how the queen will take our little Ceylon?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon frowned, uncertain what the queen had to do with her.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Oh, so you haven’t heard?” Gilroy’s crooked teeth flashed in a nasty smile. “Baron Uric has stopped here on his quest to find a noble bride. The queen told him to fetch you while he’s at it.” The smile became a sneer as he visually raked her up and down. “Seems the queen is in need of a witch to brew her sisters’ beauty potions.” His gaze on the approaching Uric, he continued in mock dismay, “What a pity the queen’s command is law. I was looking forward to retaining your exclusive services, sweet Ceylon.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eLady Annette’s hand flew to her mouth as she tittered.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon felt the blood drain from her face. Shock at the queen’s command was bad enough. She wasn’t a beauty consultant! What was with these spoiled women?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Gilroy,” Lady Tennyson murmured, but the damage was done. Even worse, by the chilling of their expressions, the strangers didn’t know whether to believe his insinuation or not.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eShe looked at the dark knight and a mental gong sounded. Uric! She went rigid, all her silly fantasies instantly burned to ashes. He was Uric the Berserker? The man who was rumored to have traveled a thousand days in search of a bride to please his beastly mother? The mother that was said to have shaved one maiden bald when she refused to clean her chamber? \u003ci\u003eThat\u003c\/i\u003e Uric?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eShe wanted to hide. How could she have been so stupid? Of course, he would be looking for a bride, a woman far above Ceylon’s station. Some blue-blooded lady with more hair than brains. The most he would ever offer Ceylon was the position of mistress.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eIn the moment of silence, Ceylon heard herself say with detached calm, “Oh, I wouldn’t worry, Sir Gilroy. I’m quite certain another doctor will have medicine to cure your particular affliction. Have the sores burst yet?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eGilroy turned red. Before he could say a word, Baron Uric stepped forward, effectively blocking Gilroy’s path of retaliation. “Mistress Ceylon.” He gave her a slight bow, his gaze steady. Ceylon had the feeling that his attention was on his back, in case Gilroy attacked. “I’ve heard much about you.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon’s jaw locked. She imagined what Gilroy had said. By now, he probably thought the worst of her. “Have you?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“The queen is eager to make your acquaintance. She promises to make the journey worthwhile.” His smile was practiced, one he would give a business acquaintance. He wasn’t trying to woo her, which told her he expected her to go with him; that’s what one did when the queen commanded.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Winter is coming, my lord,” she said icily, still mad at Gilroy. “I despise being cold. Even the gift of an entire castle would not entice me outdoors in such weather.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHis eyes narrowed. “You would refuse the queen’s invitation?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon looked away, sorely tempted, but knowing she had no choice. “No.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThe single, tight word broke the tension. “Shall we?” Lady Tennyson said with a weak smile. “Dinner is ready.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eSince Lord Tennyson was away at the moment, Gilroy took his place at the head of the table, leaving Ceylon seated between his two brothers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric was stuck between Lady Tennyson and her coquettish daughter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Tell me about life at court, my lord.” Annette placed her hand lightly on his arm and stared deep into his eyes. “I want to know all about it.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eBeautiful, Uric thought, already regretting his journey. He was growing tired of women who could think of nothing but wearing silks and jewels and being presented to the queen. “Why don’t you tell me about yourself?” he asked with a hopeful smile. It was the right question, for she immediately launched into a discussion, freeing him to subtly watch the healer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eGilroy had filled his ears with many things, centering on her prowess in bed and general bitchiness when she didn’t get her way. Although Uric had his doubts that the obnoxious youth had ever touched her, he wondered. It wasn’t an uncommon arrangement, and both times he’d seen her she’d been in a foul mood. What did he know about the girl, anyway?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003ePity, he thought as he watched her over the rim of his goblet. She was pretty, and there was a straightness to her spine he liked.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eSuddenly Ceylon’s eyes widened. Clearly outraged, she shot a swift look downward. Her hand disappeared beneath the table, and her shoulder jerked. The young man next to her—Boyd, Uric thought—smirked.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric’s eyes narrowed as Ceylon stabbed a piece of peacock and chewed viciously. He had a good idea of the brother’s game and didn’t like it. No matter what she had or hadn’t done, the girl clearly didn’t enjoy being pawed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon stiffened again, and this time her fork disappeared underneath the table. The fat man on her other side, Amherst, gave a sudden squawk.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Are you all right, Amherst?” his mother called.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHe gave her a tight smile. “Perfectly. Just had a piece of meat go down wrong.” As soon as his mother looked away, he shot Ceylon a killing glare.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eAll was quiet until Ceylon’s eyes skewed around to fix the weasel-faced Boyd with a poisonous scowl.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Quite the weather we’re having, isn’t it?” Boyd asked innocently.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon gave him a fierce smile and dumped her wine in his lap.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHe howled and jumped up, his chair falling to the floor behind him. “Witch!”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric didn’t wait for Boyd to raise his fist. He leapt the table and thrust Ceylon behind him. Roland was instantly at his side. “Hold, Boyd! She’s under the queen’s protection.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eBoyd kicked aside his chair. “I don’t care! I’ll have her hide!” He charged.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHe found himself pinned and Uric’s knife at his throat. “Then maybe you’ll care about this?” Uric calmly pressed the razor edge into Boyd’s neck. A bead of red trickled from the light cut.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eNobody moved.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric waited a long moment to make his point and released him.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eBoyd stepped back, rubbing his throat. His expression was mutinous, but he didn’t attack Uric again.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric gave Lady Tennyson a slight nod, ignoring her offspring. “Thank you for your hospitality, my lady. Dinner was excellent. If you’ll excuse me, I’ll escort my charge home before she causes any more trouble.” He grasped the healer’s arm, not surprised to find her stiff and unresponsive. It didn’t slow him down as he half-dragged her from the hall.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“I can walk,” she told him coldly the minute they were outside.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Go ahead.” He released her, glad to see she kept up. She seemed as eager to leave that place as he was.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“What’s wrong?” A scrawny youth with wild black hair and a scruffy beard jumped up from a bench in the entryway as they approached. He handed Ceylon a coat and eyed the tall warriors suspiciously. “Do you need assistance, Mistress Ceylon?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Not from you, pup,” Roland said, barely glancing at him as he opened one of the massive double doors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon ignored him and gave the wary boy a tight smile. “Thank you for waiting, Raven. Of course, I’d like you to walk back with me.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eRoland blocked Raven from following her. “No, Crow, she wouldn’t.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon stopped and gave Uric a frosty look. “Are you forbidding me to bring my servant?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric considered the scruffy lad. If this ragged urchin was her servant, then she didn’t pay well. “Very well. Let him alone, Roland.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eRaven eyed the intimidating Roland like a young wolf as he moved to Ceylon’s side. Roland stood his ground, forcing the young man to walk around him as he turned his head to keep Raven in his sights.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“And Calisto wants to know why I never married,” Ceylon muttered as she extracted her gloves from her coat pocket.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Let me help you.” Raven hurried to take the coat from her and settled it around her shoulders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eSurprised, she blinked at him until she remembered that it was the sort of thing a servant would do. “Er, thank you.” She caught Uric looking at her and averted her eyes, hurrying out into the storm.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eFew people walked the dark streets. Occasionally a bundled person would hurry by the brick houses, only to disappear behind a door at the first opportunity. Frozen mud made an uneven walking surface, and the tiny frozen puddles crunched under her shoes, wetting her feet. “I knew I should have worn my boots,” she muttered.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Wear them tomorrow,” Uric suggested. “You’ll be traveling by coach, but it pays to dress warm.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Coach?” Raven said guardedly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon waved a silencing hand. “I need at least two days to settle my affairs. If I’m not going to be back until spring, I need to find a caretaker for my house and pack my things. Day after tomorrow is the best I can do.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Fine.” Uric stopped at her door. “In the meantime, I’ll have some of my men keep watch on your house. I didn’t like the look on Boyd’s face tonight.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eAbout to protest, Ceylon shut her mouth. The man had a valid point. “Fine. Raven, there’s a plum tart in the house if you’re hungry. Just take the whole thing home. Widow Godfrey made me two.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Yes, ma’am!”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon waited until Raven found the pie and came outside. The candle Raven had lit illuminated her unsmiling face as she nodded to the men. “Goodnight.” She shut her door, leaving them out in the cold.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eSo much for hospitality.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch1 class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cb\u003eCHAPTER 2\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric walked away from the healer's house, shaking his head. \"That has to be the strangest woman I've ever met. She dresses like a lady yet talks about wearing boots. Her servant wears rags, yet she feeds him like a king. Gilroy swears she's his mistress...\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\"Yet she defends her honor with silverware,\" Roland finished. They'd reached the stables, and he sent the stable boy to fetch two of their men. He crossed his arms and leaned against a post. \"Gilroy's lying.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\"He's the type.\" Uric propped one boot on a bench. \"Maybe we should investigate before we leave. I'd like to know what kind of woman I'm traveling with.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eRoland's grin was sly. \"You want her to be a virtuous maiden.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric spread his fingers, palm up. \"What's the alternative? That she sells herself for the occasional coin? I'll spend the entire journey fighting to keep her from impregnating herself before she's presented to the queen.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\"Hm.\" Roland withdrew a coin from his pocket, walking it through his fingers. \"My gold says she's never gone near Gilroy's bed. How about yours?\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\"Only oafs bet on a lady's virtue.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\"Speaking of which, if we're leaving in two days, I guess that means we'll not be having a wedding first?\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric frowned at him.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\"The fair Annette? The woman you came to see? Were you planning to offer for her before we leave, or was this another wasted trip?\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric looked aside as two of their soldiers entered the stables. \"We had to come for the healer anyway.\" He sent his men to guard the healer's house.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eRoland's eyes narrowed on the back of Uric's head. He was growing weary of tramping around the countryside just so Uric could reject bride after bride. Uric swore it didn't matter, but Roland suspected Uric was holding out for love.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eWho could blame him? Still, at this rate, they would be old and gray before Uric decided on a match.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eIt was time he took a more active hand in this romance business. He'd be home by spring, toasting his feet by the fire and drinking ale even if he had to sink to playing matchmaker.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCupid would shoot straight at Uric's heart, even if he had to stab him in the back.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\"Healer Ceylon? Are you daft?\" The sooty blacksmith wrinkled his brow and spat. The heat from the forge warmed his work shed, and daylight shone through the cracks in the door. \"Beg pardon, milord, but that girl wouldn't cozy up to Gilroy if he offered her the castle. Never could stand him, what with their history.\" He thrust the teardrop-shaped elk shoe back into the coals to heat. It took two shoes on each foot to shoe the divided hooves, and strong glue attached them to the hooves' thin walls.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eRoland polished an apple on his shirt while Uric tried not to look too interested. \"What history?\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThe blacksmith looked both ways and crooked his finger.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThey leaned forward.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\"It's rumored he's her half-brother, and a cruel one. Used to delight in tormenting her. Even held her down once and smeared dung in her face.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eRoland and Uric exchanged glances.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eAnticipating their next question, the blacksmith continued, \"No one knows if the squire or Lord Tennyson fathered her, but the entire village knew that Ceylon's mother was bedding his lordship. Used to flaunt the gifts he gave her right under the squire's nose. There were those who called the squire a coward for doing nothing about it, but never to his face. No one dared, for he was a mean fighter. But he loved little Ceylon, kept her happy with books after her mother died.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\"Does Gilroy know who Ceylon might be?\" Uric asked, sickened by the thought.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThe blacksmith abruptly turned and picked up his hammer. \"If he knows, he doesn't care.\" The grim set of his face revealed his feelings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eMuch enlightened, and deeply disturbed, the men left the shed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\"It seems you'll be doing the woman a favor by taking her away.\" Roland squinted at the gloomy sky. \"Can't imagine why she hasn't already left.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\"Her friends are here. It's not easy for a woman alone to give up everything she knows to go to a strange place.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eRoland smiled. \"Ah, but she's not alone anymore, is she?\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric shot him a sharp glance. \"Don't be matchmaking, Roland. I don't need your help.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\"Who said I was planning to help you?\" Roland raised his brows and swaggered away.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eAs his meaning sank in, Uric hurried to catch up. \"Wait a minute! Since when do you want her?\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eRoland batted playfully at an awning. \"What do you care? I won't get her pregnant.\" He was considerate that way, taking precautions where others wouldn't bother.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric's brows drew together. \"That's not the point.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\"What is?\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\"A woman like that will demand marriage.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\"So? With a little taming, she'll make a fine wife. Cuddly, too,\" Roland added as an afterthought.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\"I didn't see her fawning over you last night,\" Uric snapped.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\"I wasn't at my best. I'll have to try harder.\" Roland surveyed the merchant shops. \"I wonder what sort of gift she might fancy?\" He started toward a jeweler's sign.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric grabbed his arm and corrected his course. \"Don't be an ass! If you start bringing her gifts, she'll think you're trying to buy her favors.\" On second thought, maybe he shouldn't have warned him. A quick rejection would get the idea out of Roland's head.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eRoland eyed him. \"You're probably right,\" he said slowly. \"I suppose we should see about supplying our journey.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThe tension drained from Uric. Maybe Roland was coming to his senses. He clapped him on the back. Hard. \"That's the first intelligent thing you've said in an hour.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eRoland just smiled.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eNow that she was actually moving, Ceylon had overcome her initial resistance and was efficiently settling her affairs. The priest’s spinster daughter agreed to watch over the house. In fact, she was delighted.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“You can’t imagine how glad I am to spend some time away from mother and father,” she confided to Ceylon as she helped pack books. “And don’t worry about your patrons; I’ve always had a penchant for medicine. With that copy of your book and what I know about herbs, I think we’ll get on just fine until the new doctor arrives.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon sent her a grateful smile as she sorted out a few packets of essential herbs and medicines for her travel kit. “Thank you, Ermine. I’m very grateful you could help on such short notice. It eases my mind.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eErmine flipped her hand dismissively. “Don’t worry about anything. We’re all so proud of you! Why, it’s not everyone who gets a summons from the queen.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon gave her a weak smile. Yes, lucky her. Instead of staying inside her cozy cottage, she got to ride into the teeth of winter with a berserker and his barbarian friend.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eShe was still in the middle of packing when visitors knocked on the door.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“I just heard,” gasped the balding carpenter. Apparently, the news had alarmed him. “No one can believe it, least of all me.” He took her hand and looked imploringly into her eyes. “Surely you weren’t planning on leaving without giving me an answer to my marriage proposal?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eShe glanced helplessly to the side. Uric’s guards, stationed at either side of the door, listened with unabashed interest.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“I’m not sure this is the time,” she began but stopped in frustration when he sighed mournfully. Obviously, her attempts to let him down easy hadn’t gotten through. Very well, it was time for bluntness. “Oleander, I’m sorry, but no.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHis face fell.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“I’m truly sorry.” Loath to prolong the spectacle, Ceylon shut the door in his face. She hadn’t gotten two steps away when another knock sounded. With a groan, she turned back.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThe tailor’s wife, Natty, had brought her a new pair of wool socks. “I know you must be busy, but I couldn’t forget all you did for our little Timmy,” she said as she pressed the parcel into Ceylon’s hands. “God bless you, miss.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThe door had barely closed behind her when another caller showed up at the door. This time it was a villager with a feverish baby, and there was no question of not helping.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eTemporarily abandoning her packing, Ceylon prepared herself for a very long day.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eIt was after two o’clock, and Ceylon simply had to get out of the house. One more caller would be one too many. Tossing a coat over her shoulders and pulling on her woolen mittens, she sneaked out for a brisk walk.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eA light snow was falling. Flakes like white rose petals fell along the shingled roofs. Only the constant traffic in the streets prevented the snow from covering the frozen mud.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eShe hadn’t gone far when the sound of trumpets announced the return of Lord Tennyson and his company. Ceylon cleared the street with the others and stood at the side while his party rode through.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“He’s back from another pilgrimage,” she heard one man say.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eAnother man spat. “Aye. He’s become quite the holy man, our lord.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon snorted softly. Yes, their lord had become quite the spiritual wayfarer after Ceylon’s mother had died. Guilt could do that to a man.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eShe cast her eyes downward as she always did and waited for Tennyson to pass.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThis time his gelding’s dappled legs moved into view and stopped.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Mistress Ceylon,” Lord Tennyson said quietly. He waited until she was forced to look at him.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon dragged in a breath, rigid with rebellion. It had been a year since she had seen his light brown hair and neatly trimmed, pointed beard. At least twelve months since she had been forced to acknowledge the strawberry-sized red mark revealed by the receding hairline. Sick heat roiled in her stomach. A year wasn’t long enough.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“My lord,” she managed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eEyes as green as hers studied her solemnly. “I’ve heard the queen has sent for you.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon jerked her head in a short nod.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHis hands worked the reins. “I’m pleased she has acknowledged your skill. You’re certain to bring Marksheath honor in her service.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Thank you, my lord.” Ceylon looked through him.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHe hesitated a moment more, then nodded. He spurred his elk, and his party moved on.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon pulled her hood lower and hurried home, miserably aware of the staring crowd.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHer head ached.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eIt didn’t feel better the next day after wrestling with the sheets all night. It didn’t help that Raven was determined to follow her to Queenstown.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“I’m your bodyguard,” he insisted, tossing his feed sack of belongings on the table. The room was still lit by the fire and oil lamp. “You need me.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eLoath to contradict him, she bit her tongue and tried to think of a way to reason with him. “It’s cold. You have no elk, so you’ll have to ride in the carriage. It’s bound to be a long, boring trip.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Hardly,” he quickly assured her. “You’re going to visit the queen! You’ll be traveling with real knights.” His gaze desperately held hers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon shut her eyes. Of course, the knights. Raven’s dream. “You can come,” she said, massaging the bridge of her nose.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eJubilant, Raven swept her up in a crushing hug. “You’ll never regret it, Ceylon!” He gave her a fierce grin.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Yes, yes.” She disentangled herself, feeling to see that nothing was broken. “Just try to remember that when your feet are numb and your nose is frozen.” She wasn’t nearly as happy as he was. He was one more responsibility, for she’d worry about him the whole way. How was she supposed to look after a boy old enough to shave?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eShe eyed him, looking for clues, and found them in his bedraggled appearance. “Well, come on then.” She headed up the stairs. “I’ve got some of my father’s old things in the attic. Bound to be small on you, but they’re in good condition, and I can modify them on the way.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eSmall was an understatement. Ceylon hadn’t realized how tall Raven was until she saw his wrists sticking three inches out of her father’s coat. She stared at the pants with equal dismay. Those barely went past his calves. “I can do something about the shirts, but we’ll simply have to buy more pants.” And boots, she added silently. His shoes were cracked and close to falling apart.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHe shifted uncomfortably. “I can’t buy them yet.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eShe waved a hand. “Call it an advance on your wages, but we’d better hurry if we’re going to get you anything. It’s almost dawn, and the baron is sure to be annoyed at the delay.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eSure enough, when she opened the door, Uric was there, his hand raised to knock. A steam powered carriage waited. Black and silver, it had four fat wheels and a trail of steam coming from a pipe on the roof. People stopped to stare.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric smiled at her astonishment. “Glad to see you’re ready.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eMomentarily distracted by her first sight of the new invention, she said, “Er...not quite.” Ceylon tipped her head at Raven. “My servant will be coming, and I need a few minutes to buy him some warmer clothes. It was a last minute decision,” she added when he scowled.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric sighed. “Make it quick, then. We have some hard riding to do.” Her escort would be riding elks, it seemed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHe looked at two of his men. “Get her bags and put them in the coach.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon gave him a grateful nod and strode off, glad that she wore long underwear under her pants. Today was no day to be fashionable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Wouldn’t you like to ride?” he called, leading his elk.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“I’ll be riding all day,” she threw over her shoulder. “Besides, it’s only a few doors down.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eLights were on in the shoemaker’s house, though doubtless he wasn’t expecting business so early. “Boots, you say?” he muttered, adjusting his spectacles to peer at Raven’s feet. “For him?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“If you have them. We’re in a hurry.” Ceylon stepped in, pulling off her gloves as she went. “I’ll pay, of course.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThere were boots at hand, fortunately. They were a little big, but that was fine since Raven was growing. It also allowed room for a felt liner and another pair of wool socks, a plus in cold weather.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eBut when it came time to pay, Uric handed the old man a coin. He looked at Ceylon, whose hand was still in her pocket. “The queen is paying your expenses now.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHe was just as fast to pay the tailor, who fortunately had a few things ready. This time Uric had Ceylon wait in the coach to save time. Moments later, he sent the beaming Raven out with a large bundle. Nodding to the coach driver, Uric mounted his own stag, and they headed out.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“What’s all this?” Ceylon asked in surprise as Raven tossed his new bag into the coach. He opened it up and showed her his new clothes. Amazed at Uric’s generosity, and a little alarmed, for surely the queen hadn’t meant for the baron to be that generous, she watched Raven spread out his loot.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eRaven grinned and held up a garment. “I know! I couldn’t believe it.” He noticed what he held and flushed. He stuffed the underpants back in the bag.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon grinned.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eMore subdued, Raven held up a linen shirt. “Look at this! He got me three! And this coat, and socks, pants...” He showed her each item with the enthusiasm of a small child. “He barely even looked, just checked for fit and tossed it on the pile. Didn’t even blink when he heard the price.” His voice was awed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon let out a breath. Raven was too occupied to notice.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eShe stroked the furs that covered the leather coach seat, taking in the rough texture of black bear. There were softer fur covers folded on the floor, as well as a blue and yellow velvet quilt. There were orange and red brocade cushions, complete with gold cording. An unlit lantern hung from the ceiling, and it was surprisingly warm, thanks to the steam engine. There was even a basket of fancy snacks.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eAll of this for a country doctor? The queen had certainly gone all out...\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHer unease only increased when she spied the neatly wrapped package under Raven’s seat. It was done up in brown paper and tied with a string. The large tag had her name on it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eRaven helped her drag it out. “What is it?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon gasped as the paper fell away. It was a blue velvet coat lined with sheared beaver.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eReally worried now, she laid the coat aside and opened the window. The first thing she saw was Roland. “Sir Roland?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Yes, Mistress Ceylon?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Have you seen the princesses?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHe frowned. “Yes.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“And are they...” There was no way to put it delicately. “Just how ugly are they?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHis brows rose.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eShe sent a wild look inside the carriage, alarmed anew by her surroundings. “I can’t do miracles.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eRoland stared at her for a moment with the strangest expression, then threw back his head and roared.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric dropped back to see what was so funny. In spite of the chill, his head was bare, and he barely seemed to notice the wind ruffling his curls. “What’s the joke?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon glanced behind her again. “Is all of this on loan?” The idea relieved her. “That is, I know the coach is, and of course everything in it, but will we have to return the coat and Raven’s clothes?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric exchanged a glance with Roland, his eyes twinkling. “I doubt the queen will want to wear Raven’s clothes.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon flushed. “You know what I mean!”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHe shrugged, still in good humor. “What are a few clothes and one coat? Of course, you may keep them.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eShe ducked back inside. How ugly could the princesses be? What would the queen do to her if she failed to make them more attractive? Callion was said to have an even temper, but she had also placed more than one charlatan in the stocks.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eShe stuck her head back out, interrupting Uric and Roland. “I want you to witness that I never claimed to be able to help the princesses,” she said forcefully. “I’ve never made any claims at all.” When they stared at her with expressions of incredulity, she added, “It might keep me out of the stocks if you would remind the queen of this if I fail.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric looked puzzled. “She’ll hardly send you to the stocks, Ceylon.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Just in case, please remember.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eRoland squinted when she ducked inside. “Do you think she’s been sipping one too many of her own potions?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric only shook his head. Who knew what went on in a woman’s mind?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThey stopped to rest the elk at noon. Ceylon had been dozing in the carriage, but was quick to take advantage of the stop for a jaunt into the woods. On her way back, she noticed Raven returning from a similar errand and decided to begin breaking in her new “servant.” It only took a moment to retrieve her crossbow.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eShe selected a tree and moved away from the others. “Raven, come here!” She handed him a woven coil target the size of a saucer. “Hang this on that tree, would you?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eRaven frowned at the huge oak at the edge of the clearing. “All right.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eWhen he returned, she handed him the crossbow. “You once said you wanted to learn how to use a crossbow. Now’s a good time.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eFaint color came into his cheeks as he darted a glance at their escort, who were watching them with idle interest. “I know how to use one,” he informed her scornfully.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHer brow rose at his tone. The boy had better watch it, or she’d let him walk to Queenstown. “Show me.” As expected, her frosty stare took some of the starch out of him.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eLips compressed, he fired at the target. And had to jog to retrieve the red flagged quarrel. He returned it sheepishly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon accepted it, reset the weapon, and shot a quarrel into the target’s heart. She raised her brows in cool expectation. “Now will you pay attention?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eRaven scowled and darted a glance toward the men. “I can’t let a woman teach me such things.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThat annoyed her. She’d had just about enough of his fragile pride. “Then don’t tell anyone,” she retorted. “Besides, no one will care as long as you can shoot the eye out of a rabbit. Get on with it.” She handed him the bow and gestured for him to walk closer to the target.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Who taught you to shoot?” Uric handed her a mug of hot soup and sipped his own as they watched Raven run after his quarrel.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eShe accepted the mug with a nod of thanks and curled her chilly fingers around it, inhaling the savory steam. “My father felt a woman would be hopeless with a heavy sword, so he trained me to use a crossbow and hunt. He didn’t want me to starve if anything ever happened to him.” She was silent a moment. “He knew I would never marry.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Why not?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon frowned. “My face, of course.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“It looks nice enough to me.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“It didn’t always.” Uncomfortable, she focused her attention on the boy. “Get your arm up, Raven! Use the sights, don’t guess at your target.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric fingered his ragged ear. The tip had been sheared off in battle. “I know how you feel. I think this is the reason I have a hard time finding a bride.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Don’t be silly,” she snapped. What a stupid comparison. “Who would notice?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHis lips turned into a sly smile.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHer eyes narrowed. “I know what you’re doing. But my face was ten times more marked than yours will ever be. They called me…” Her mouth snapped shut.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Dung face?” he asked softly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eShe flinched.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“They were fools.” He gently lifted her chin. “I wouldn’t let my friends treat a girl like that.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eShe pulled away. Seeking a distraction, she watched Raven.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“When do you think he’ll discover that’s a repeating crossbow?” Uric murmured, close enough to tickle her ear.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eShe couldn’t help but smile. More reliable than a pistol, the repeating crossbow could hold six bolts at a time. “When his attitude improves.” She saw the men putting out the fire and quickly finished her soup. It was time to leave.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon spent the rest of the day playing travel chess with Raven. The board was specially made with pieces that pegged into the board to prevent jostling. Raven was terrible, but he was learning.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThe windows were too foggy to see out, but occasionally Ceylon rubbed the glass with her fist and peered out at the white world. Mostly there were trees shrouded in ice. Occasionally they passed a snow covered field, but there were more trees on this stretch of road than anything else.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThen there were the ruts. Ceylon winced as another one jolted her. By the time they entered a village of log houses and pulled into the yard of the town’s only inn, Ceylon was more than eager to get out. She looked askance at the faded paint on the wooden sign. “The Quaking Robin?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eA boy of eleven or twelve ran up to them with a slightly older girl at his heels. “Yes, mistress! Named in honor of our grandmother. Da says a minute with that old blabbermouth and you’d be quaking like a robin.” He leaned closer confidentially. “Ma’s got her tongue.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHis sister slapped his shoulder, jostling the gap-tooth grin from his face. “Hold yours, John-Wesley! You know better than to bother the guests with stupid chatter.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHer plain, pimpled face smiled up at Ceylon, an unusual occurrence. She really was a tiny thing. “Welcome, mistress! Are you to stay the night? Just tell me how many and I’ll run straight away to prepare the rooms.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon glanced at Uric for direction.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHe smiled at her. “Go inside and warm up. I’ll handle this.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eShe nodded and mounted the steps, admiring the spruce burrow logs that held up the porch roof. It was the first time she’d seen a log dwelling, much less one of this size. It even had two wings. The common room window was glass, but the others were oiled paper.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eClean wooden planks thumped under their feet as Ceylon and Raven entered, making certain to wipe their feet on the rush mat. That is, Ceylon remembered and made certain to prompt Raven. The orderly atmosphere of the place demanded it. In spite of the antlers and hunting trophies on the walls, the place showed the mark of womanly care. Oil lamps and arrangements of dried flowers graced the mantel and even the tables. Wreaths decorated the walls and bouquets of dried herbs as well as neat rows of braided onions and chilies hung from the rafters. Judging by the mouth watering aromas coming from the kitchen, the innkeeper’s wife certainly knew how to use them.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“This is quite a place,” Ceylon told the stocky woman who was tending the fire. “I’ve never seen a house built of log.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Hmph! We make real houses here, not those straw and mud block-things they make over the border.” The homely woman punctuated her comments with significant jabs of her long wooden spoon. She plunked it in the pot and eyed Ceylon with frank curiosity. “And where are you from, mistress?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon grimaced. “From over the border.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThe lady patted her shoulder. “Well, don’t you fret about it, mistress. Kate will feed you right and proper just the same.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Thank you.” Ceylon sat on a bench as Kate filled a mug from a kettle suspended over the fire.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Spiced cider? I make the best in town. I’ve also bread from the morning’s baking, a kettle of barley soup, rabbit pie, and a lovely roast duck, nice and juicy.” She winked at Ceylon. “I’ve been expecting your party, though I worried about the roads.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCider and a mug of soup were set before her and Raven. The girl from the yard appeared with a tray holding two golden-crusted loaves and a pair of fat pies. She deposited them and then hurried off. Moments later, she reappeared with a stack of plates, mugs, and cutlery. The mugs she took to the tap and filled to the brim with frothy ale, returning just as Uric and Roland strolled in.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric smiled at the proprietress. “Fast service as always, Mistress Kate.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eRoland raised his nose, took a deep breath, and sighed with satisfaction. “And tasty cooking.” He winked at Kate. “For a penny, I’d run off with you.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eKate waved her spoon. “Now none of that, you rogue! Sit down and eat your supper, my lord, and none of your teasing.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eRoland affected a glum air as he took the bench across from Ceylon. “She doesn’t respect me at all, love. What should we do with her?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon shook her head at him and raised her mug. “Why ask me? You’re the ‘rogue’ here.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHe gave her a rakish smile. “So nice of you to notice.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Pay him no mind,” Uric advised between bites. “He’s just angling for a warm bed so he doesn’t have to share a room with Raven.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“With Raven?” Ceylon looked between the scowling Raven and annoyed Roland. It didn’t seem like a good arrangement.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric grinned over his mug. “There were only two rooms with big beds left and one with bunks. I won the toss.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eRoland looked downright mean at that bit of news. To keep the peace, Ceylon offered, “Since they’re bunks, I could give him my room and share with Raven.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“No!” Raven recoiled in horror. “You’re a girl!”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Out of the question,” Roland announced sternly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“You’ll stay where you are.” Uric’s stare brooked no refusal.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon drew back, surprised at their vehemence. “I was only trying to solve the problem.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eMistress Kate clucked her tongue as she refilled mugs. “Where were you raised, mistress? Surely you know better.” When color rose in Ceylon’s cheeks, she added more kindly, “Your men are protecting your reputation, love. Anyone can see it. No need to get nettled.” She sniffed at Uric. “Though if you ask me, my lord, you’ll do better to hire a respectable companion for her if you want to do the job proper. It’s not fitting for her to travel alone.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon frowned. “I don’t think so.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThe tavern keeper frowned but dropped the subject and started in again when Ceylon left the room.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eShe clucked her tongue. “That one’s been too long without a guiding hand. Too used to doing what she pleases, and never mind the gossip.” She shook a finger at Uric. “You’ll not let her get in trouble, will you? She seems a nice girl, if a bit green.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Don’t worry, Mistress Kate. I promised the queen I’d deliver her in good condition. She’s in good hands.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHe sighed and went back to his ale. Determined to take his mind off the girl, he settled into discussing their route with Roland.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"center\"\u003e***\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Mmm....”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon’s eyes opened.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Oh yes,” someone moaned in a breathy whisper. The sounds were coming from the wall near her head.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Oh, yes! Do it! Just like that.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon tried to bury her head, but the sound got louder from what she hazily thought was Uric’s room.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThe wall began to vibrate as the bedstead on the other side rocked.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThat’s it! Ceylon tossed the pillow off and sat bolt upright. What Uric did was his business, but not when it disturbed her sleep.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eShe pounded on the wall. “Shut up back there!”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThere was a short pause, a giggle, then a man called, “You can join us.” More snickers and a feminine squeal. The pounding began again.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThoroughly irked, Ceylon tossed off her covers and pulled on a robe and shoes. It didn’t sound like they were going to stop soon, and the noise was getting worse. Making certain to slam her door, she trotted down the short hall and negotiated the stairs to the common room.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric was there, nursing a drink. One dark brow rose, and he stood politely. “They started about ten minutes ago,” he said sardonically. “I’m surprised you slept this long. My room is on the other side of them.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon sat down, rolling her eyes. “How inconsiderate! Surely the deed can be accomplished quietly.” She yawned and eyed his drink, so he slid it over.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eA dimple popped into Uric’s cheek. He couldn’t resist the chance to tease her. “You wouldn’t know?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eShe glared at him. “You’re as bad as he is, inviting me to join them.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThat remark made him scowl, but only for a moment. He winked. “It’s probably Roland, seducing a widow so he wouldn’t have to share a room. Likely he’s drunk and won’t remember.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eShe sighed and put her head in her arms.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Sweetheart?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Why are you calling me that?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHe ignored her question. “I’m sorry if you were offended. None of us think you’re immoral.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eShe propped her head on one hand. “I know. I’m just tired.” Her sleepy gaze moved over his face. “So were you born beautiful or were you one of those lanky youths with spots on his face and a scraggly beard?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHe laughed in surprise. “What?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eEyes half-closed, she stifled a jaw-popping yawn. “You heard.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHe shook his head. “You’re something when you’re drowsy, sweetheart.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eA soft snore was her only comment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“What?” Roland demanded over breakfast. “You’ve been glaring at me since you came down.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric hid his grin behind his mug as Ceylon flicked a bit of lint from her sleeve. She didn’t look the worse for being carried upstairs and tucked into bed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThe memory made his smile grow. She’d snuggled in his arms like a kitten and made a soft protest when he withdrew the warmth of his arms.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eIt was a wonder he hadn’t joined her. He’d been tempted.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“I’d appreciate it if you kept your activities quieter in the future. Some of us were trying to sleep.” She held his gaze, stabbed a sausage link, and deliberately sliced it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eRoland flinched. “What activities? The only thing I did last night was sleep.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUnconvinced, she measured the bewilderment in his expression and then considered Uric. “So you weren’t banging the wall with the widow next door?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eRoland choked, and Uric snorted beer out his nose.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“What widow?” Raven demanded as Uric alternated between laughter and coughing. “I wish he had! The man snores like a herd of bison.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThat earned him a glare from Roland. “Watch yourself, cub!”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eBefore Raven could provoke him further, Ceylon demanded, “Then who...?” Her eyes widened as she caught sight of the couple walking down the stairs. The others turned to see what she was staring at. Could that be the lusty pair?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThe wizened, short man with an enormous beak came just to his woman’s gargantuan bosom. He wore farmer brown, and the top of his scalp hadn’t seen hair in a very long time. He leered up at the woman, exposing the gaping holes that once held teeth, and squeezed her bottom.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eMadam Twin Peaks squealed and smacked coyly at his hand. Her thin lashes batted as she rolled her substantial shoulder his way, and her smile lifted the large, hairy mole at the corner of her mouth. Her left eye twitched.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eRoland drew back as they brushed by on their way to the door.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThe fat lady winked at him.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eRaven coughed. Uric snorted. Moments later, the entire table erupted in hearty laughter, all of it directed at Roland.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eEven Roland had to grin. “I’ve never been that desperate for a bed.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eIt was easy for Ceylon to forget her concerns while laughing with her escort, but once on the road, they came back.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Describe the princesses to me,” she asked Uric when they stopped. “What exactly is wrong with them?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHe ticked the problems off on his gloved fingers. “Too fat. Warts. Spots the size of boils.” He grimaced. “Two of them are as bony as their sister is large. You won’t have an easy time.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThere was silence as she pondered his words. “Yet the queen expects her sisters to become beautiful. That’s why she sent for me.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric kicked at the fire. “I doubt she expects anything. They’ve invited dozens of ‘experts’ to the castle, and none of them have helped. It’s probably the princesses’ pleading that made her send for you.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon’s shoulders slumped. “Yet she sent for me, and I’ve no desire to be lumped in with the rest of the failures. I can cure the skin afflictions, and if the princesses will work with me, I can do something with their bodies, but I can’t make a woman beautiful who isn’t.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“If you can do that, the queen won’t care. She’ll reward you handsomely simply for taking away the warts. She’s very fair,” he encouraged when Ceylon merely scowled. “She knows you made no claims.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon climbed into the carriage, sending him a frustrated look just before he shut the door. “I despise doing things halfway.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eRaven slouched against the cushions, staring at the fogged windows. “I hate riding in this box. A man rides an elk.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eShe raised a brow. The carriage was hardly a “box,” but he wanted to be outside with the men, doing manly things. “Perhaps I will buy one with the queen’s reward.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThat lightened his mood, and he was quiet for some time, likely dreaming of a war-elk.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon scratched her face, considering her problems. The dry air was causing her skin to flake and redden, but her winter face cream would soothe it. The only difficulty was that she had to use powder to keep her skin from shining, and it tended to leach all of the color out of her face. Short of applying cosmetics, there was no remedy for it, and she had never learned to use them...\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eShe drew in a quick breath. Cosmetics! That was the other half of the formula. True, she’d seen them overdone, and nobility frowned on them, but surely there were women skilled in their subtle use. Such a woman could accomplish what she could not, if she could only find her.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon started searching that very evening, in an unpromising little hamlet called Two Dog.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eIt didn’t begin well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Would you know if there is a woman here who is skilled in the use of cosmetics?” she asked the scrawny innkeeper.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThe man screwed up his dirty face and spit on the sawdust floor. “Only whores use face-paint,” he said, and went about his business, leaving her scowling.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Why?” Uric wanted to know. “You don’t need any.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eA little embarrassed by his compliment, she dropped her eyes to her wooden mug. She shouldn’t have. It was filthy. A crusty unidentified food remnant fell off the rim and into the ale. “No, but the princesses might. Does the queen use cosmetics?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Few of the women at court do, and it would take more than face paint to hide bumpy skin.” He lifted his mug and inspected it critically. “Not that it hasn’t been tried. Innkeeper!” He caught the crabby man by his shirttail and dragged him back when he would have walked by.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric’s eyes narrowed. “I paid good money and expect clean mugs. Have your boy wash them, and don’t try to pawn your watered ale on us again.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThe innkeeper shrank back and gestured for his ragged serving lad to collect the mugs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric signaled Raven with a tilt of his head to follow and supervise.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThe innkeeper puffed up, but an icy stare from Uric deflated him. His complaint came out a whine. “I’m not used to serving such fine guests, my lord. That lot don’t care what they get so long as there’s plenty of it.” He nodded to the filthy group of patrons crowded into the rest of the tavern. Sure enough, they were stuffing their faces without complaint.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“They have their standards. I have mine.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHis cold tone made the innkeeper bow and back away. “Yes, my lord.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon couldn’t help her shiver of fascination. This was a side of Uric she hadn’t seen. He didn’t even have to raise his voice to make someone quiver. Was a man born with that kind of authority, or was it something one learned?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHe noticed her sideways glance. “What?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Is that sort of thing handed out with the title, or is it something you learned? It’s rather piratical.” She had a secret love of swashbuckling pirate romances.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“I hate to disappoint you, but I’ve never been to sea.” He leaned back and accepted a new mug of ale from the innkeeper’s boy. He slipped the lad a coin, which quickly disappeared.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHis gaze traveled over her, frankly appreciative. “Though at the moment, I’m wishing I were a pirate.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eFire flooded her cheeks, and Ceylon blessed the smoky, murky light as she looked away, pretending interest in the loud laughter at the next table. He’d fooled her these last days. She should have known better. Wasn’t he the queen’s champion, her leashed berserker? Men grew quiet at his name, and women shivered. He was a legend. Who was she to tease him as if they were equals?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eRaven had just returned, so she tried to lighten the conversation that was growing deeper than she could handle. “I’m not worried. The gallant Raven will protect me.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHer comment fell like a stone into an invisible pool. Raven’s look told her he didn’t enjoy being put on the spot.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric’s said she was a fool if she thought a boy could stop him.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThe food arrived, providing a distraction. She bent her head and pretended great interest in the dark, heavy bread.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThe sour rye didn’t hold nearly as much interest for Uric as the woman choking it down. He’d enjoyed it when she’d sparred with him; before she’d lost her nerve, anyway.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Bread not to your taste?” Roland inquired of Uric in his native language. “Or do you crave something sweeter?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric’s mouth curved wickedly. “Honey,” he murmured in the same tongue.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eRoland smiled.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Autumn Dawn","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46155897635044,"sku":"TheWomanInside_Ebook","price":7.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0661\/9771\/7220\/files\/Woman_Inside_ebook.jpg?v=1742839354"},{"product_id":"ladies-in-waiting-the-other-woman","title":"The Other Woman: Ladies in Waiting, Book 2 — Ebook Edition","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-italic\"\u003eA fantasy romance of secrets, scars, and unexpected desire. Book 2 in the Ladies in Waiting series—perfect for fans of slow-burn chemistry and layered characters.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-italic\"\u003eLove at second sight.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAlly wants passion and adventure. She’s ready to seek a lover. There’s just one obstacle―her husband.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eRoland had little use for his child bride; until he saw her again after ten years at war. Her tongue cut like a sword’s edge, but her body promised nights of raw passion. If only he could overcome her hatred.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBut it’s not hatred that has her on the run. A far different emotion drives her to flee his touch. Once an unwanted wife was bad enough. This time she won’t wait around to become the other woman.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-italic\"\u003eA hot, but not explicit, romance novel\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a-text-bold\"\u003ePerfect for fans of:\u003c\/span\u003e Historical romance, strong heroines, and epic love stories with a touch of suspense.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch1 style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e✨\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRead a sample now:\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChapter 1\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eAllyson's betrothed froze on the threshold, stunned. She couldn't blame him; it wasn't every day a man found his fiancée and his mistress together in the same room.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\"Come in, Roland.\" Allyson gestured ironically at the velvet couch where his long-time love, Marissa, sat. \"You're just in time for tea.\"\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eMarissa smiled anxiously at him, and like a man in a trance, he complied.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eNow that all the players in this little drama had assembled, Allyson poured the tea, carefully hiding the nervous trembling of her fingers as she served his. Black, just the way he liked it.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eWary as a cornered cat, Roland’s gaze darted between the two women. \"What's going on?\"\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eWith an impatient sigh, Allyson gestured with her cup, careful not to spill. This would be one of the most difficult things she had done in all her sixteen years, but it was the only solution she could think of that all parties might live with. \"Our parents are forcing us to wed, Roland. I can sympathize with your situation; your family badly needs their king’s approval, and we can't commit treason.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\"No matter what we feel, our monarchs are determined that this foolish deal will reinforce the peace between our people. I know you don't want this, especially since I’m being forced. Mistress or not, I still find you a better choice than losing my head.\"\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHer face darkened. Her father was delighted with the betrothal, since he’d found her particularly difficult to marry off. In one stroke, her father would be rid of his most troublesome daughter and form an advantageous alliance. From his point of view, he couldn’t lose.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBesides, her father knew she favored their neighbor Roland; she always had. So did he. Unfortunately, her father’s view on mistresses and hers did not mesh. To his mind, they were no threat to the lady of the house, merely a mild diversion. Didn’t he have one himself? Such a paltry thing had never bothered her mother, or anyone else. She would marry Roland.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAllyson felt differently. If she couldn’t have the whole man, then she would accept nothing at all, husband or not. Her father had underestimated her determination and cunning.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUsing the weight of her cup and saucer to still her betraying hands, Allyson continued, “This being the case, I thought we should hammer out an agreement between us.” Her circling cup included the three of them. Using as much gentle persuasion as she could, she proposed, “They may force the vows from us, but they can force nothing else.” Expression fierce, she leaned forward. “I know you love Marissa; would marry her if you could.” Her eyes flicked to Marissa’s stomach. “I know about the child.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe tick of the clock was the only sound in the room. Roland quietly took Marissa’s hand. A black lock slipped over his forehead, hiding one eye as he glanced at his love’s belly. His child slept there, and by the look on his face, nothing would convince him to give it up.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIt was all Allyson needed to see. With every ounce of persuasive power she had, she looked deep into his eyes. “Keep her as the wife of your heart, Roland. When we stand before the bishop, let me stand as proxy for her. After the vows, let us retire to the room, but do nothing. After the household is asleep, go to her and be her husband in truth. Let things remain pure between you.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe lovers exchanged glances; hers filled with painful hope, his intense with unspoken emotion.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEyes bright, Roland said roughly to Allyson, “And what about you?”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSafely hidden, her heart gave a painful lurch. Dark-eyed and full of warrior’s fire, Roland Darchorse was the only man she’d ever wanted, and the last one she would ever have.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA pleasant smile on her face, Allyson waved a hand. “I? I will be free.” She forced the smile to brighten, afraid that he would \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003esee\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIt won’t happen, she thought, determined. This was a private pain. No one would ever be privy to it but her. “Content in my role as cupid, I shall travel the continent, see the sights. We should rarely have cause to see each other.” The smile slipped as she became more serious. “Do we have a deal?”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFor a moment, his gaze sharpened, became piercing. For a horrible second, she thought he guessed what she really felt.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThen he looked at Marissa. Slowly his hand covered her belly, and there was so much love in his gaze Allyson wanted to cry. “Yes,” he rasped. “We agree.” Those dark eyes pierced her once again. “I am in debt to you, my lady. More than you will ever know.” Unspoken lay his silent promise to make it up to her, whatever the cost.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAware that such a thing wasn’t likely to happen this side of heaven, Allyson nodded and avoided his eyes as if it were a trivial matter they’d just settled. “Very good.” With a firm clink, she set down her cup and rose to her feet. “Now if you’ll excuse me, I think I’ll go to my room and plan my travels. Good day to you.” She nodded politely at the lovers and walked without hurrying to the door.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOnly when she was safely locked in her room did she slump against the thick door. One by one, the tears fell, silent witness to the pain. The grief cut deep, burnt on a pyre fueled by girlish, romantic dreams. She’d found her love, her knight, and would wed him, but she’d never have him. There would be no children, no happily ever after.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eShe was destined to be an unloved wife, to forever be the other woman.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch1 class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eCHAPTER 2\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003ci\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTwo years after the wedding…\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRoland lunged against his chains. They cut deeply into the raw welts he’d already torn in his wrists, but he didn’t care. A lady, his captors had said. A lady had betrayed him. His eyes narrowed with savage fury. Ally. Ally had betrayed him.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA boat was coming. He couldn’t see it through the fog, but the occasional clank of oars, a guttural swearword drifted over the sea.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe sea wind blew over Roland’s nearly naked body, making him shiver. One of the men who’d waylaid him glanced his way, making certain he was still securely bound to the rocks. Several of the sailor’s comrades had been slain before they’d taken him down, no small feat considering Roland had been alone when he’d been ambushed. Perhaps the man feared the chains might not hold him.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHe had reason to be afraid.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe boat slipped from the fog and grated against the rocks. Roland could hear a quick conversation in a foreign tongue, the clink of coins.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSold as a slave. Betrayed by a lady.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAlly would pay for this.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003ci\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEight Years Later…\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRoland checked his saddlebags and gave his girth a sharp tug. He had a fresh lead on the man stalking his friend Uric’s woman, and it would take him out of town overnight. For a slinking toad, the man had been surprisingly hard to track. They were certain he was in Queenstown, but his exact whereabouts were a mystery. They needed to find him soon, because Gilroy only became more persistent and nasty with time.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eRoland!” A tall courtier strode toward him, flashing slightly uneven teeth in greeting. Streaks of silver shot through his goatee and chin-length black hair, though Daniel Inferato was only a handful of years older than his brother Roland. Though he might look like a pampered nobleman, his skill with a blade was legend. Kings and beggars walked in awe of him.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDaniel patted Roland’s elk and glanced at the bulging saddlebags. “Going somewhere?”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eTo track a killer. Want to come?” Roland flashed his brother an ironic grin. It was the sort of sport Daniel enjoyed best.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eActually, I had a different sort of intrigue in mind. Something of great interest to my piratical brother.” He flicked Roland’s ear on his blind side, teasing him as only an older sibling would. Few people took such a light view of Roland’s lost eye, though Roland had long since grown used to the nervous reactions to his patch. Daniel had presented him with the silver-inlaid black leather, telling him that he might as well make use of it to intimidate his enemies. Court was teeming with them.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eSorry. Perhaps when I get back.” He placed his foot in the stirrup.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eYour wife is here.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSlowly his booted foot came down.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCasually, Daniel went on, “Apparently she’s in seclusion, for no one has seen her, nor does anyone know what brought her here. I caught a glimpse of her through sheer luck. I think she knows you’re here, and she’s avoiding you.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eSmart girl.” Roland’s intense anger at her was one of the reasons he’d stayed away from Riverdell. Much as he wanted the truth, a part of him feared he’d kill her on the spot. A lady had betrayed him. He’d never doubted the lady had been her.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBut he’d never forgotten what she’d done for him and Marissa, back when he cared about the conniving wench. At the time, Allyson’s gesture had greatly moved him, especially since he’d suspected she was a little in love with him. It must have been difficult to bear the shame of being a new bride while her husband openly kept his mistress.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIn gratitude, he’d made a silent vow to repay her. Restraining himself from hunting her down and crucifying her must count for something. If that didn’t count as a sacrifice, he didn’t know what did.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eToo bad the woman had turned on him. Betrayed by a lady.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRoland snarled and spat on the ground. Some lady.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAware as he was of Roland’s past, Daniel also knew how his brother had shunned Riverdell. Which was probably why he kept his face expressionless as he said, “I did a bit of research on the matter.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRoland glared at him. “You meddled.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eMy hobby,” he said modestly. “You might be interested to know she keeps journals. Rather detailed, I might add. They’re right there in her study at Riverdell, in plain sight on her bookshelves.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eOr for a snooping guest to help himself to?”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eIt was late. In spite of her colorful reputation, the lady declined to entertain me in private. I had to resort to a bit of reading to tire myself.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eAnd?” Rage coiled in his gut, demanding a target. If there was proof that Allyson had betrayed him…\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eI think you should go to Riverdell and see the books for yourself.” Daniel’s expression was grave. Whatever he had found must have been momentous indeed.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRoland blew out a breath. The last thing he wanted was to confront that fortress of evil memories. “You could have simply stolen them for me.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eBrother, there are some things a man must see for himself. Go to Riverdell. I think the peace which has eluded you these last years awaits there.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePeace. Roland laughed without humor. Even if he hung the vicious woman, there would be no peace for him. Death wouldn’t undo what had happened to him. Though perhaps it was time the evil wench saw justice. Rumor had it she’d been terrorizing the countryside. No doubt his neighbors would thank him if he saw her removed and a decent steward set over Riverdell instead.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePerhaps it was time he stopped listening to the wounded feelings of a naive young man and took action like the warrior he was.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHe mounted his elk. “I’ll think about it.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAlly eyed her brother-in-law from under her elk’s belly. The beast had gone lame, and she’d chosen to see to him rather than trust him to the queen’s grooms. One could never be too careful.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUntil her face was well known at court, she would continue to use her minstrel guise. If even Roland, who had unwittingly traveled in her company for weeks, couldn’t recognize her, then there was little chance of anyone else doing so. Only Daniel, who had made the occasional visit to Riverdell, had realized who she was.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eShe’d heard a rumor that her wayward husband had returned and had gone to see. Disguised as a minstrel, she’d joined his company to see what kind of man he’d become. She hadn’t been impressed, especially with his intelligence. Granted, it had been ten years, but he hadn’t a clue that his wife was within arm's reach, hearing every slur against her, witnessing his liaisons.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTo his credit, he wasn’t the only one fooled. It was ridiculously easy to deceive the court, which had little attention for others. It was almost frightening, considering these were the people supposedly guiding the country.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHer in-law was more observant. If she didn’t take care, she was sure Daniel would talk her into doing something she wouldn’t like.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eYou should at least meet with him. Hiding will only make you look cowardly,” Daniel said reasonably.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eShe turned her attention to the heat in her elk’s leg. “Now why would he care to visit with his ‘tyrannical, tempestuous fishwife’ when he could loll about in bed with any of the court’s light-skirts? I hear General Argus’s daughter is quite the vixen. You should recommend her to him.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAfter ten years of neglect, she certainly didn’t care who he slept with. Not that it would have mattered if she had. Roland’s amorous pursuits were famous from the Papal seat to the Holy Land, on a par with his reputation for mayhem and bloodshed. Only his berserker friend Uric rivaled his body count, though he was in peril of being tamed by Ally’s friend Ceylon.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGod save her.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eYou shouldn’t quote the gossips, and he can find his own lovers. Bring him home for a little while, at least. You might find him of use against your more pesky neighbors,” Daniel insisted with nauseating persistence.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eShe gave him the evil eye. “I manage Riverdell. Alone. If I need an extra sword, I’ll hire it. Saints know I’ve got enough gold. Commerce was one of the few things my father forced on me which turned into a blessing, the blighter.” The marriage he’d imprisoned her in certainly hadn’t been.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOf course, her happiness had been the last thing on his mind. Had he actually cared about that, he’d have married her off to a goatherd. At least the man would have been around to help milk the goats. It certainly couldn’t have been harder than running several estates and fighting off her grasping neighbors.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDaniel leaned a shoulder against the stall wall without a care for his velvet coat. It was a ruse, she knew. Daniel became whatever he needed to extract information. She’d seen that careless air before.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eSpeaking of Riverdell, what’s forced you from it? The passes are nasty in this weather. Was your business that pressing?”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eShe sent him a knowing look. “Master spy, leave off. If I wanted you to know my business, I’d have written you a letter.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHe chuckled. “As you will, my lady.” He bowed low and left.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eShivers made her flip her collar up. There was something unsettling about that man. As debonair as he was in her company, she’d heard rumors of his viciousness in battle. Though neither he nor Roland’s father bothered her overmuch, both made a habit of dropping by from time to time. Every time they came, she felt their sharp eyes watching, considering her stewardship. It was nerve-wracking.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThey could learn a thing or two from Roland and leave her alone.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMemories of him made her scowl and pay closer attention to smearing the ointment on her elk’s leg. A wise woman never dwelt on the follies of marriage. If she had her way, the last time she would see Roland would be in the queen’s audience chamber. As soon as her business was through, she intended to charter a ship and find a nice, sunny isle with a throng of half-naked native men lining the beach. Thanks to her useless husband and the heavy demands of keeping Riverdell prosperous, she’d wasted a lot of living.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAlly wanted a lover.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNot just any lover; someone uncomplicated, carnal. She wanted a man completely uninterested in money, someone possessive and faithful, preferably a stud with the drive to go all night. True, it was a tall order, but while she was dreaming….\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOf course, she knew it was unlikely. At most, she would find someone tolerable and handsome. That wasn’t such a bad thing. It was more than she had now, more than many women had. And if she never again had to earn the money while a man went off to war and squandered it…. Sounded like heaven to her.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"center\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e***\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSnowmelt dripped off Roland’s hair and ran down his nose. He pulled his cloak close and tried to ignore his damp boots. This close to the coast, one never knew if it would spit snow, rain, or a freezing mixture of both.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThere were few fishermen in the ill-lit inn, so it was easy to spot the one he was looking for. There weren’t too many balding redheads with coin-sized moles on their scalps. A man matching that description was seated at a rickety corner table.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eMy lord!” The man waved him over. Roland motioned for his servant to remain by the door and keep an eye out while he took care of business.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eWhat do you know?” Roland demanded the moment he sat down. The nasty weather had made him grumpy. Chasing fruitless rumors about Gilroy’s whereabouts had soured it further.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eWord has it you’ll pay gold for certain information,” the balding one said, watching him cautiously.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRoland flipped a coin on the table. It was quickly scooped up.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eRight, then.” Watery blue eyes glanced around at the mostly empty room. The stench of his breath nearly knocked Roland over as the fellow leaned forward. “You were right, my lord. She did pay out the tithe, and faithfully, too. My brother’s wife’s father’s friend rode with those hired to collect it.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eConfused, Roland demanded, “What are you talking about?”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe fisherman frowned. “I was told you wanted information about your wife’s doings. That other lord who come through here said you’d want to know where the money had gone.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eWhat other lord?” Suspicious, Roland put one hand on his sword and looked around for a trap. If Gilroy had set one…\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eBlack hair to his chin, salt-and-pepper goatee. Looked something like you, my lord.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDaniel. Roland’s fingers began to drum. The rhythm got faster as his ire built. He’d sent him out in the rain on a fool’s quest. What idiocy was his brother up to now?\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEyeing Roland uncertainly, the man went on. “It’s the reason she became so witchy, my lord. Got tired of the yearly demands of tithe to be sent to you. Said you were a greedy cur, but….”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eYearly demands? Are you still talking about my wife?” A dull pounding began deep in his brain, born of temper and confusion. “I never made any demands.” How could he have? He’d still been bloodying his slave’s sword as a gladiator at the time. The only contact he’d had with Allyson in the two years prior to that had been by letter and about business. From the tone of her letters, she’d been delighted to have him away from home. Not that he’d blamed her. It would have been awkward to live under the same roof with both wife and mistress.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHis frown deepened. He’d never asked for any money from her during that time, either. “When were these tithes made?”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eFor nine years. I’d heard it said that she refused to do it this year. Said you could bloody well come home and collect if you wanted it. She had the collector tossed naked out of her gates. Sent his men scrambling after him. They say it was because the man got cheeky with her, but I don’t know. After all, with her reputation for bedding anything in pants….” He broke off, sending a wary look at Roland as he remembered whom he spoke to.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBut Roland was far more interested in this tithe business. It sounded as if someone had been stealing money meant for him. It surprised him that Allyson would have sent the money at all. Whoever had posed as him had to have been powerfully crafty. “How much money are we talking about?”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eHalf the yearly income, less the queen’s taxes.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIt was a fortune. A low whistle accompanied Roland’s surprise. But how was it that his father and Daniel hadn’t discovered this sooner? And why couldn’t Daniel have simply told him, he thought with irritation. The man was fond of intrigue, but he hadn’t had to go to such extremes…unless he’d thought Roland would be too obstinate to listen. Either that or it had suited his twisted sense of humor.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOne thing was certain; after that nasty ride in the rain, Roland was all attention. He dropped a handful of coins on the table and left to seek lodging.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePerhaps he would have to speak with his infamous Ally Cat after all.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"center\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e***\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eYou could have simply told me.” Roland had barely shaken the snow from his cloak before he’d sought out Daniel. While comfortable enough, Daniel’s room in the palace was far from lavish. Elegance, not ostentatious display, was the style.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDaniel raised a brow and poured Roland a cup of tea. “I know you. Had I simply told you, you’d have ignored it and your woman. That, and I do love tormenting you.” His smile was lopsided.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eShe’s not my woman.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eFine. She’s your wife, your responsibility. The least you could do is take an interest and see what became of your money.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eI don’t need my duties dictated to me, brother.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eThen do them!” Daniel set the teapot down with a thump. “Ten years is a bit long to let her molder, no matter what your feelings toward her. Do the girl a favor, solve her problems, and let her get on with her life. She doesn’t deserve to suffer for your stubbornness.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eYou’re interested in her then?” This was news. He hadn’t thought Daniel would care for a woman of his wife’s reputation. But then, Roland had been gone a long time. Perhaps Daniel’s tastes had changed. How well did he really know his brother?\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eI don’t covet what’s not mine, though you’ve never bothered to claim it,” Daniel retorted. “My interest in her is familial, I assure you.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRoland took a sip of wine, savored it. “Yes, well…you might not have ‘claimed’ it, but rumor has it others have made up for your discretion.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eRumor is a two-headed dragon. My sources say one lover, perhaps two. Ever. How many do you have to your credit?”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSurprised, Roland blinked. If Daniel said there’d been only two, there had been. And that bit of gossip could have set the court on its ear.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHe didn’t even consider that his brother might be wrong. The man was a walking ferret. Even when they’d been children, it had been chilling how easily Daniel could worm out any information about Roland’s misdeeds. Fortunately, he was discrete, or else Roland would have received many more whippings as a boy.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAt least as an adult Daniel had turned his attention to deeper intrigues and stopped investigating his sibling’s mischief. The skills he’d honed on Roland had made him a very rich man.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBut this tidbit about Allyson…\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRumor had it that the wench had been pursuing men forever, perhaps even in the dawn of their marriage, though he’d seen no evidence of it. As vicious as the rumors were, and as little effort as Allyson made to correct them, it would take a miracle to stop them. Yet Daniel was never wrong.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCurious in spite of himself, Roland asked slowly, “Why would you go through the trouble to find out?”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eShe’s family. And one day I knew you’d be home.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEyes closed, Roland tipped his head back against the chair and groaned. Daniel was matchmaking. With Roland and his wife, no less. Why couldn’t he have a normal brother who’d be content to cuckold him quietly? The last thing he wanted was a lover’s relationship with Allyson.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe last he remembered of her was a wary-eyed girl with sharp angles and no padding. He hadn’t wanted to think about sex with her, much less see her as a woman. It had been a relief to cut his hand and bleed on the sheets for her.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBut…reluctantly, the memory of her sacrifice and his silent promise nagged him. He owed her.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIt wasn’t difficult to remember why he’d buried the obligation. Their situation had been awkward, and there wasn’t much he could have done for her. Marissa would have thrown a princess fit if he’d sent gifts, though it wouldn’t have stopped him if he’d thought it would help. Gifts wouldn’t have been enough, and he hadn’t seen what else Allyson had needed except his absence. She had his finest castle, plenty of money and comfort. At the time, it had seemed enough.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBesides, she’d betrayed him, or so he’d thought.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNow someone was stealing from her. It was something he could do, a chance to repay her. And maybe once he was done, he’d find that elusive peace after all.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDaniel must have seen his decision on his face, for he crossed his arms and stroked his goatee. “By the way, while you were chasing after rumors,” he grinned, “I discovered what brought your wife to Queenstown…”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch1 class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eCHAPTER 3\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eI understand your position, Lady Riverdell, and I will address it when the other party to this case is present to speak.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eAs you wish.” It was tempting to argue with the queen, but it could only hurt her case. Instead, Allyson shut her mouth and silently recited Gregorian chants. The rhythmic cadence soothed her.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThey were alone in the gaslit audience chamber. Everyone had been dismissed due to the delicate nature of Allyson’s case. Only the rhythm of her majesty’s manicured nails as they drummed on the throne arm broke the silence; the queen kept good time. After a moment, Allyson composed a ditty to accompany the drumming. Men are useless. I wish they’d fry. Waiting and waiting. Why do men lie?\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTen years was a long time to wait for a promise she now knew would never be fulfilled. Not unless she extracted it with the power of the throne behind her. Roland owed her. It was time to collect.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe massive audience doors swung open and admitted one man. Her husband.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLight glinted off the inlaid silver in his black leather eye patch. A slight scar nicked the smile groove beside his mouth, and his straight black hair flowed free to his shoulders. As always, his battle-roughened voice caused shivers to kiss her spine. He stared at Allyson with a gaze like cold steel. “Wife.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eShe fixed her eyes on the queen and waited for the verdict, uncomfortably aware of his intent gaze. Well, it had been what, eight years since he’d last laid eyes on her? Knowingly, of course.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWhen she’d heard of his passage near Riverdell, Allyson had disguised herself as a young minstrel and joined his company. He’d never realized her true identity, and she’d had the opportunity to observe him unaware. What she’d seen hadn’t surprised her. While she’d never actually caught the cad wenching, she’d been witness to plenty of his flirtations. No woman had ever had more cause to end a marriage.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eYou are aware of Lady Riverdell’s request for an annulment?”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eI am.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eShe met his dark gaze boldly. So what if he realized who she’d been in disguise? Good. It made it difficult for him to argue with her. After all, she’d been an eyewitness, almost, to his infidelity.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eWhat of it then? Do you agree to the annulment?”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAllyson fixed him with her most commanding stare and dared him to say no.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHow had he ever mistaken her for a boy? Roland tried to imagine the tight corset required to flatten breasts like hers and failed. She must have been trussed tighter than a holiday hen. Surely she’d required padding to straighten that curvaceous waist. Combined with her blue eyes and lustrous dark hair, it was no wonder she’d made such a pretty boy.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNot that he cared what she did. They’d made an agreement a decade ago to go their own ways, and he had never looked back. Another man would let her go.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eExcept that…he looked at the cheek nearest him. There was a fading bite mark under her cosmetics, though it was cleverly hidden now. At one point, she’d ridden ahead of the party, driven there by his suspicion. They’d found two men dead and a bloody mess all over the road. Her elk had been slain, and they found her nursing her wounds in a farmstead a mile or two ahead.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHer wounds had been his fault.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eLord Roland?”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe doctor who had attended “Odell” had never said, but Roland still wondered just how badly the “boy” had been injured. A man didn’t bite another unless he had certain things in mind. What had he accomplished before Odell had managed to slay him?\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAnd besides all this, there was that tithe business….\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eLord Roland.” The queen was getting impatient.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHe reached a sudden decision. Perhaps it was time he started fulfilling his obligations. “I do not support her choice.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eWhat!”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eYou don’t?” Queen Callion seemed equally surprised, but not unhappy. “Why not?”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHe shrugged. “I will consummate if she will.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eNo!” Allyson’s hand twitched as if she wished she held a weapon. She fixed him with a forceful stare. “You owe me, Roland. Agree to this annulment!”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUnimpressed, he gazed calmly back. No one changed his mind once he’d made a decision. “I have certain obligations. Perhaps it’s time I saw to them.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eBy stabbing me in the back?” she hissed.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eYou don’t wish to have a family of your own?”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eNot with you!”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eAhem.” The queen folded her hands serenely in her lap. “Perhaps you are unaware of the difficulty this annulment would cause the crown, Lady Allyson. Your dower lands lie between the borders of Lord Roland’s land and a particularly difficult lord. A lord who has repeatedly lobbied me for this very annulment.” She smiled without humor. “He’s been very bold in requesting your hand.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAllyson stilled. She knew exactly whom the queen was talking about. “I would be very happy to disappear beyond his reach.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eThen there is the matter of who would care for and protect your land. I believe this was the reason this marriage was arranged in the first place. A marriage your lord seems willing to consummate.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eHe says he is willing. I am not.” It was all Allyson could do to contain her rage and despair. Ten years wasted, caring for his lands and hers. He didn’t deserve her lands, and that was where much of her wealth was produced. Her people prospered under her management, and although she was leaving, she trusted her steward and planned to journey to her lands at least once a year. Roland never even visited his own.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBesides, she didn’t think he intended to make the marriage real. Not for a second. This was just an easy way to keep from troubling himself with finding another manager for his property. Now she regretted faithfully supplying him with his share of their revenue. Perhaps if she’d cheated him, he’d be happy to see her go.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eQueen Callion sighed. “I see we are at an impasse. Very well, here is my judgment: you will spend one year together, under one roof. If after this time you still wish to have an annulment, provided you haven’t consummated by that time, it is yours.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eI am twenty-five, your Majesty,” Allyson gritted out. “Do you realize how difficult it will be for me to find a husband at this time, let alone in another year?”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eWhat is one year to those you’ve already waited?” the queen asked.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAllyson flinched. The queen’s expression softened. “I will put my verdict in writing. This way even my successor cannot change it. Your interests are protected, Lady Riverdell.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHot blue eyes fixed on Roland with contempt. “As you wish, your Majesty.” She curtsied to the queen and walked out, her back straight. The door shut behind her.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe queen inspected Roland with cool command. “You will not force her. I will have your head if you disobey me in this.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eI do not force women, your Majesty.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eShe nodded and flicked her hand in dismissal.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOnce outside the doors, Roland had to lope to catch up with his wife. He didn’t bother calling out. She wouldn’t have answered.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eHello again.” He matched his step to hers.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eParasite.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHis brows rose. The term was mild; her tone was not. Mildly annoyed, he asked, “So will you be traveling as a boy again or as yourself? I’m hoping for the woman. It’s bloody annoying to have men snickering behind your back because a boy is constantly staring at it.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eShe stopped dead. Eyes cold, she informed him, “Actually, I was looking for a good place to stick a knife. Fantasizing, if you will.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHe widened his eye in mockery. “Well, that place would certainly hurt, wouldn’t it?”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eBelieve what you will.” As if he were the lowest stable hand, she divorced herself from the conversation and walked on.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eYou don’t like having your plans upset, do you? I had heard you were a perfectionist.” More curious than anything, he stayed with her. Women might fear him, but few ignored him. It was a novel experience, and it made him curious.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003ePerfectionism is what made our lands so profitable while you were wasting your time bashing men with your sword. If something is worth my time, it is worth doing well.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHe nodded thoughtfully. “Too bad you had to turn into a man to achieve it.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThey had reached her room. One hand on her doorknob, she stared at him. “If that’s what it took to keep our neighbors off my back, that’s what I did. A soft woman would never have survived as long as I have. And according to the queen, not all men view me as mannish.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eAh, yes, our troublesome neighbor lord. I’ll have to pay the poor blind geezer a visit. It’s the sort of thing a husband would do.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eDon’t put yourself out,” she said sweetly, and shut the door in his face. Well, that’s what a man got for being protective. He shook his head at the closed door and turned away. He had things to see to.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"center\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e***\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe saber swished by Allyson’s belly, tearing her shirt. A hair’s breadth closer, and it would have drawn blood. She laughed at her sparring partner. “Is that the best you can do?”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe handsome lieutenant grinned and pressed in harder.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFeeling playful, she pretended a fumble and let him catch her against the wall. Rage at the queen’s ruling, as much as resentment against Roland, made her smile as he planted one hand against the wall and leaned closer. His breath fanned her face as he slowly lowered his mouth.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA wolf whistle broke the mood. “Don’t mind me,” someone said.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe lieutenant stepped back as they looked to see who’d spoken. Roland leaned against a wall and watched them. His stance suggested he hadn’t a care in the world, but his mild demeanor was legendary for hiding a ruthless adversary. The hard glint to his eye made the lieutenant hastily sheath his sword and back off.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eMy lady. My lord.” He nodded to them and quit the sparring room with all speed. He averted his eyes from Roland as he left.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eHow unsporting! He didn’t even kiss you. Should I fetch him back?” Roland offered.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIrritated at her own embarassment, she said, “Don’t bother. If he’s as bad a lover as he is a fighter, I won’t find any satisfaction anyway.” She sighed and sheathed her own blade. She hadn’t expected much of the young officer, anyway. He was far too civilized, and civilized was the last thing she wanted in a man.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eI could replace him. Care to go a few rounds?”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUgh! Tired of his games, she grumbled, “What do you want, Roland?”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHe pushed away from the wall. “An obedient, respectful wife?”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eShe took a swig of water from the waiting jug and wiped her face on her sleeve. “Dream big, don’t you?”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eIs there another way?” He gestured to the hall. “Right now, I’m dreaming of filling my stomach. Join me in my rooms for something to eat?”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eI’ll join you in the glassed gardens,” she corrected. “After I’ve washed.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHe smiled as if he’d expected nothing less.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA half hour later, they were seated in the gardens, awaiting their order.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eI’ve never seen a woman get ready so fast,” he complimented her.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eI’ve never been one to dawdle and primp.” Her simple twist took minutes to prepare. She’d forgone washing her hair until later, since she’d yet to have her daily ride. Blessed with an abundance of energy and a love of exercise, she often wore work pants and boots, as she did now. The maroon tunic and dark suede vest were cut to allow easy movement. It was open at the throat, for she couldn’t stand tight collars; the figurative collars she wore were bad enough.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eI’m glad to hear it. It should make the journey to Riverdell that much more pleasant.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eIn a hurry, are you?” She studied the blooming plants and waving fronds that separated them from the other diners. Fortunately, there seemed to be few today.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eShe hated the way his patch made him look so roguish. It had given her a start when she’d first seen it, for she hadn’t known he’d lost his eye in the wars. It made him seem dangerous, and he didn’t need the help. “You’re welcome to leave any time you want.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHe leveled a look at her. “The queen’s terms start the moment we take up residence together. Wouldn’t you rather get it over with?”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCertain he was regretting his bargain, she grumbled, “We wouldn’t have to bother if you hadn’t stuck your foot in a steaming pile of dog vomit, dearest.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHe studied her, completely unfazed by her remark. “Perhaps you should explain why you’re so eager to run away from a prime estate and a conveniently absent husband?”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eYour absence isn’t as convenient as you imagine. As it happens I’m ready to find a real husband, if such a thing exists. From what I’ve seen the hunt might prove fruitless. So far our elderly steward is the most personable candidate I’ve seen, and I doubt I’ll get many babes off of him.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eWhat is it with you women and stewards?” he asked, annoyed.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eShe was wise enough to let that remark alone. Ever since he’d found his mistress in bed with their last steward he’d been a touchy man. No doubt that’s why he’d chosen a grandfather as their next household manager. Twice cuckolded by his steward, even by an unwanted wife on the second go, would prove incredibly humiliating.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eAs I said, he’s too old,” she said, perhaps more gently than she ought.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHe locked gazes with her. “But I’m not. I’ve had enough of war. The thought of retiring to my own lands is appealing.” He looked her over with the dispassionate gaze of a professional elk buyer. “I’m ready for a son.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSince it was such a sensitive topic (Marissa had rid herself of his first child, then taunted him about it when he banished her), Ally was careful how she answered him. Besides, hadn’t she ached for a babe of her own?\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEyes on the fronds behind him, she asked in a tone far more husky than she liked, “And what would you do with a girl? Marry her off to the first promising old man who’ll have her?”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWarmth glowed in the depths of his eye as he shook his head. “Her mother will have an equal say in the matter. You have my word.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFury spiked through her. “What good is that? It took you ten years to remember your duty to your lands, to me. What if you have another memory lapse?”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHis expression hardened. “You never asked anything of me, other than to be left alone. We made that agreement ten years ago, and I honored it. Are you saying you wanted me to take you to my bed after Marissa left?”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eOf course not!” she scoffed.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eThen why are you so angry?” he asked softly.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"center\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e***\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAllyson saw Roland coming and turned sharply on her heel, hoping he hadn’t spotted her. Dressed as he was all in black, relieved only by his dark purple tunic, there was no way she could miss him. The tunic was embroidered in silver, but it looked completely wrong on a man who could easily have been a buccaneer. The man dared to wear a sword even in the royal halls! Only the queen’s captains were that bold, but she supposed the man was a knight, and renowned at that. Still, did he think there would be a battle in her Majesty’s parlor?\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAfter their tense meeting that morning, she’d thought she’d be rid of him, at least for a while. The man shredded her nerves.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWhy she should be nervous at seeing him so soon was a mystery, but since they’d had a falling out even when she’d been disguised as a boy, she couldn’t believe they’d get along any better now. After all, if he could resent her when she posed as a perfect stranger… A personality didn’t just change overnight, and that was one thing she hadn’t disguised.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSince she was dressed for court in a gown of gold and scarlet brocade and a red velvet cape, there was little chance he’d miss her, but she could hope.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eShe hoped in vain.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIn moments Roland’s long stride had overtaken her. He stepped in front of her and stared. The moment dragged out.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAlly sighed and looked heavenward. “Yes, I occasionally wear something other than pants. Since you are accustomed to seeing me in little else, I suppose you’re entitled to stare. However, I’d appreciate it if you’d do it another time. I’m late for tea with Lady Gandulf.” She stepped around him.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHe fell neatly into place beside her. “Forgive my lack of manners, sweetheart. It’s amazing what a dress can do for your figure.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eExasperated, she said dryly, “And you’re an expert on such things, aren’t you? Tell me, did you have something else in mind other than running me down to comment on my fashion sense? I \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003ci\u003e\u003cspan\u003eam\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e busy.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIf his grin was any indication, she’d amused the brute.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eActually, I was looking for an opportunity to publicly present you as my wife.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eShe stopped dead in her tracks, as if a glass wall had just appeared right under her nose. She stared at him. “Absolutely not! I’ve no intention of acknowledging a husband I’ve no plans to keep. It might drive off some of my potential lovers! Why don’t we just go our separate ways and remain fashionably unfaithful? It makes for better marriages.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eAh, but I’ve got a theory about that. I’d like to test what happens when two people do try to get along…perhaps even share a bed. You never know what an adventure it might be to actually act married.” His voice dropped to a dramatic whisper.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eYou’re quite mad, you know,” she said conversationally. “Delusional, even. Perhaps some lucky fellow got to club you over the head with a mace? I tell you what, the queen has excellent physicians. Why don’t you go have them bleed you and see if the world doesn’t make a bit more sense?”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAs suddenly as his humor had shown, it disappeared. “I’m going to tea with you, Ally.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA wise woman would have heeded his tone.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eYou know, I could bleed you.” She started walking. “I wouldn’t even charge you for it. Consider it my service to womankind.” She gestured expansively.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eInstead of answering, he took her arm. The only thing he displayed was a carefully constructed façade of calm deliberation. He nodded to the curious they passed in the hall, leaving a trail of whispers in their wake.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eShe wanted to kill him. “Really, Roland. Had I wanted to draw this kind of attention, I would have shaved my head and walked down the hall on my hands. Are you certain you don’t want to dust off your chivalry and spare me?”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHe looked at her with interest. “Can you walk on your hands?”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFlustered, she sputtered, “I don’t…bah! Fine. Be that way.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe man grinned like he’d just won a decisive battle and opened one of the queen’s parlor doors.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe aging Lady Gandulf looked up in surprise. She squinted. “What is this? Don’t tell me you’ve brought your latest lover with you, Lady Allyson! What wickedness!” She looked delighted.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eMy lady,” Roland seated Allyson and kissed the old courtier’s hand. “If I did not think my love would skewer me, I’d proposition you. Rarely have I seen a woman with such style.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAllyson rolled her eyes. If she didn’t need her ladyship’s trading ships so badly….\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTheir hostess patted her elaborately curled black wig and tittered. “Really, young man. Have a care. Your mistress is not known for her tolerance.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMistress! Wonderful. The blind old cat has no idea who he is. Allyson cleared her throat and tried to ignore the man as he sat too close to her on the settee. “Quite. Tell me, how are your children doing, Yanna? Does your son run the business as you wish he would?”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eHa! If only.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAllyson sat back and listened politely to her hostess vent. Occasionally, she got lucky and found business associates who liked to get right to the meat of things. More often, she didn’t. Yanna was a fine example of why Ally had been driven to take up knitting. Since the alternative was to go quietly mad as she listened to elderly gripes, she dug in her handbag and retrieved the beginnings of a patterned stocking.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRoland smirked at her and helped himself to a handful of dates. As he chewed, he eyed the Lady Gandulf.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eWhy are you here?” he whispered in Allyson’s ear, the action stirring the fine hair with unwelcome sensation. Worse, he put his arm on the back of the sofa as he leaned over, and kept it there.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eShe sent him her most frigid look. As Lady Gandulf chatted blithely on, Allyson murmured, “Doing business with Yanna’s type is tricky. First you listen to their life’s story, then you deal. As I recall, you weren’t invited, so blame yourself for your boredom.” Though she desperately wanted to remove his arm, she didn’t bother. First, it would tell him how much it annoyed her. Second, she suspected he’d be glad if she caused a scene. He seemed to be in the mood to annoy her.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eHm. Pity. It’s a lovely day for riding. I’m sure you’d rather be out of that dress, too.” The vibrations from his words made her ear tingle. He took the opportunity to peer at the front of her dress.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGiving in to the urge to fight back, she flicked her ear, conveniently flicking his nose in the process. Hard.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eShe smiled at Yanna and nodded at something the woman said. Yanna’s tone had demanded an affirmative response. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIn retaliation, Roland began to fondle the back of her neck.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eTell me, child. How long have you been with this lover? I like him,” Lady Gandulf said suddenly. Apparently, her eyesight was good enough to make out something interesting, for she wore a coy smile.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eAh…” Ally stalled. The last thing she wanted was to reveal her companion’s true identity. It galled her that Roland had shackled her to him again. The last thing she wanted was to admit to it.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRoland wasn’t the least shy, however. “I’m afraid we’ve had a bit of joke on you, my lady. Allow me to introduce myself. I’m Roland Darchorse, Ally’s husband.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAlly closed her eyes and resisted the urge to groan. Her goose was cooked now.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eReally…”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eYou oaf!” Ally hissed at Roland the moment she escaped the parlor. He couldn’t have chosen a more chatty soul to confide in. Worst of all, she hadn’t been able to steer the conversation back to business, which meant at least one more session of being trapped in Lady Gandulf’s gossipy clutches.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eI think she liked me,” Roland said with false innocence.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eShe shot him a killing look. “I’m so pleased for you! Now if you’ll excuse me, I have to go soak my head in ice water. The pressure inside is killing me.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eI could massage it.” He reached for her.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eInstantly her hand shot up to block him. “Don’t! I suffered enough of your ‘ministrations’ in the parlor. I prefer to choose my own men to soothe my aches, if you don’t mind. At least they follow orders and back off when told.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAll pretense of good humor vanished. The temperature seemed to drop several degrees as his eye narrowed menacingly. The softness of his words lent them extra weight. “I do mind. Be advised, lady, if I hear of any soothing going on, your lover will pay for it.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThey had entered a little-used hall. A glance about showed they were alone, so she stopped and demanded, “What do you mean?”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWithout moving, he shrank the space between them. “Ally Cat, you should know.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe mention of one of her least favorite aliases made her eyes narrow. “So you expect a show of faithfulness while you run amuck, savoring your own pleasures?” His hypocrisy infuriated her. According to rumor, Roland had been nominated “Realm’s Least Likely to Join a Monastery”. His reputation made hers seem saint-like by comparison.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSerious as a eulogy, he slowly shook his head. “We’ll both behave ourselves. Until this year is out and our contest is decided, the only appetites we’ll be sating is what we satisfy together.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBemused, she could only blink at him. That was one of the oddest things she’d heard a man say in years. It sounded like he wanted constancy. Fidelity. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOr maybe he’d just sampled one too many of Lady Gandulf’s brandied tarts.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHe searched her eyes, perhaps confirming that she’d completely understood him. Without another word, he nodded and left her standing in the passage.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eShe shook her head. Strange man. Maybe he truly had suffered a blow to the head, because he’d never been this possessive before his years of warring. He was certainly suffering delusions if he thought she’d do anything other than what she pleased.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eShaking off his gloomy warnings, she straightened her shoulders and went on her way. Men, she’d long ago learned, were beyond understanding. If Roland persisted in trying to force his will on her, he was going to be in for a nasty surprise.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAllyson the Brassy yielded to no one.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"center\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e***\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRoland released his falcon and watched it soar into the gray skies. A cold wind ruffled the hair that escaped the hood of his cloak, but at least the snow was powder and easy on the elk. A warmer day would have made riding a slushy experience. Wind-borne, stinging snow was better than wet boots and cold feet.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDaniel had been his sympathetic and mostly silent hunting companion, but once he’d released his hawk, that changed.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eSo, you took tea with Gandulf and your lady. I’m surprised you changed your mind so quickly about her.” Daniel tugged on the cuff of his leather falconer’s glove. Without looking up, he said casually, “I wonder why.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWhile Daniel might have engineered the encounter, Roland didn’t feel it entitled him to any updates. Some things were none of his business. So he answered flippantly, “You need look no farther than the woman’s chest. I swear I haven’t seen peaks like that since the Alps.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA choked noise accompanied Daniel’s wide stare. “You want her for her breasts?”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRoland smirked. “You were expecting something more poetic? You’re becoming quite the woman in your old age, brother.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eMouthy pup! I suppose your decision had nothing to do with staking your claim? I was surprised that you fought the annulment.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eI live to surprise you.” Roland’s bird dove like a bolt of lightning and rose with prey in its talons. Rather like he planned to do with the man who’d betrayed him and Ally both. Their marriage was a convenient way to stay close to her and watch. Besides, it was fun to rile her.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003eI realize the passes to Riverdell are blocked at the moment, but I found some information you will find useful. The name of the man who collected the yearly tithes on your behalf is Thorone, and he lives near Barough. You’ll recall it’s a two-day ride from Riverdell, near Van Sadis land.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRoland tensed. Barough. He’d heard that name before. The falcon came to him and he lifted his arm to provide a perch and sent it off again, hardly aware of what he was doing. One of the men who’d sold him to slavers had called his leader ‘Barough’.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: Arial, sans-serif;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThere was blood on the snow. He bent to pick up the fat partridge his bird had killed. He could hardly wait until spring.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Autumn Dawn","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46156080644324,"sku":"TheOtherWoman_Ebook","price":7.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0661\/9771\/7220\/files\/Other_Woman_ebook.jpg?v=1742839164"},{"product_id":"ladies-in-waiting-fantasy-romance-bundle","title":"Ladies in Waiting: Complete Ebook Bundle","description":"\u003ch1\u003eAdventure \u0026amp; Romance Series\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGet all three fantasy romance novels in the Ladies in Waiting series—full of slow burns, scars, court intrigue, and reluctant love. Strong heroines. Complex men. No regrets.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eThe Series\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eThe Woman Inside\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne look at Uric's mother—known throughout the land as the fearsome Ogress—and his potential brides flee in terror. When his queen sends the legendary berserker on a quest to retrieve a healer rumored to be a witch, Uric can't resist bringing the beauty home. Surely a witch would be more than a match for an ogre's son...\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCeylon, bound by duty to serve her queen, reluctantly accepts Lord Uric's escort to Queenstown despite his intimidating reputation and the unsettling rumors about his mother. Determined to resist his romantic pursuit, she unknowingly rides straight into political intrigue that will shake the foundations of her nation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBetween Ceylon's determination to maintain her independence and Uric's unexpected attraction, their journey becomes far more complicated than either anticipated.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eThe Other Woman\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlly craves passion and adventure after years of a cold, neglected marriage. She's ready to seek a lover and begin anew—there's just one obstacle: her husband.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRoland returns after ten years at war to discover his child bride has transformed into a sharp-tongued, captivating woman. Though her words cut like a sword's edge, her body promises nights of raw passion. If only he could overcome what he believes is her hatred.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBut hatred isn't what drives Ally to flee Roland's touch. A much more complicated emotion has her running. Being an unwanted wife was painful enough; this time she refuses to become the other woman.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs misconceptions unravel and true feelings emerge, both must decide if the connection they feel is worth fighting for.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePerfect for fans of:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHistorical romance with strong-willed heroines\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEpic love stories with enemies-to-lovers dynamics\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAdventure and intrigue woven through emotional journeys\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRomance that sizzles without explicit content\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese passionate tales deliver emotionally satisfying journeys where initial resistance gives way to deep connection, all wrapped in adventures that test both heart and courage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch1 style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e✨\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRead a sample now:\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch1 class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCHAPTER 1\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\u003ci\u003eIn another world, another time....\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon stared at the dark red paste in her mortar. Twenty-three years of being ugly was about to change. Twenty-three years of being the ‘horror of Marksheath’ was nearly over.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eGears whirred in her father’s old grandfather clock, marking the minutes. The scattered beakers, glass tubes, and copper distillers littering her workbench testified to her many experiments. A huge leather book sat open on a stand near her, a slimmer journal on top, weighted with a large brass magnifying glass. Shelves of books lined the walls, still smelling of her father’s pipe smoke, though he’d been dead for some time. She was alone.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eEyes fixed on the hand mirror, Ceylon briskly applied the bloodroot paste over the red stain on her cheek. Born with it, she had endured the pity and revulsion of strangers, but by all that was holy, she would not endure it another day.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHerb lore had fascinated Ceylon since childhood, and she’d spent a great deal of time accumulating knowledge and experimenting on herself. Her studies filled several journals she planned to compile into a book. Her workspace shelves were lined with both ancient texts and modern translations, along with jars of herbs, pots of ointments, pills, and tinctures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHer jaw tightened as she replaced the tiny pot’s lid. Ugly, reclusive, and a spinster, she knew she might have been dangerously close to being labeled a witch had she not been the Squire’s daughter. Thankfully, the villagers had gotten used to his strange experiments. No one had been surprised when his daughter followed his odd ways; hardly anyone called her a witch.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eLong gone, but still protecting her… it was so like him.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eShe pushed aside the memories and reassured herself that the paste would work. The small mole she’d tested it on had gotten red, scabbed, and fallen off, hadn’t it? With a little help from her special salve, it had healed without a scar. The wretched birthmark would go, too.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eShe stared at herself in the mirror, jittery with anticipation. Everything was about to change.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cb\u003eOne Year Later...\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“It’s said she can turn the sorriest hag into a beauty to rival Venus.” With all eyes on him, the velvet-clad courtier bowed low before Her Majesty, Queen Callion of the Nine Kingdoms. The clockwork bird on his hat whirred, flapping tiny wings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eQueen Callion inclined her head, a slight frown on her face as she listened. She’d heard such promises before.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHer sisters, the princesses, were far more eager. “Tell us more!” The eldest and largest of the three demanded, leaning forward. “Was she truly the ugliest maiden in the land?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Worse,” assured the courtier, who had never laid eyes on the woman in question. He hoped it was true, for the anticipated reward for success would be substantial.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThe middle sister, as scrawny as her sister was plump, eyed him suspiciously. The lower half of her face was covered in a veil to hide the warts on her chin. Even exorcism hadn’t been able to cure the stubborn affliction. “You say she cures warts?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHe snapped his ringed fingers. “As easy as this!”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“And skin blemishes?” breathed the youngest sister, who was covered in terrible pimples.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Of course! And for a basket of eggs, she’ll even cure boils.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThe princesses exhaled as one and turned hopeful eyes to their sister, the Queen.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHer majesty suppressed the urge to sigh. What would it hurt? She would never be able to arrange marriages for her sisters in their present state.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eShe caught the courtier’s eye and lifted one imperious finger. “Bring her to me.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 class=\"western\" align=\"center\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cb\u003e***\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon eyed the caged chicken. The chicken stared back in dismay. It was clear that the relationship was never going to work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eLoath to let down the hopeful peasant woman, she said reluctantly, “I’m afraid that I have plenty of chickens just now....”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThe woman’s face fell.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“But if it were to come back in the form of a pie....” Ceylon had eaten one too many chicken pies lately, but surely she could choke down another. Most of the people who came to her for help didn’t have much, but their pride insisted that they pay her however they could. Unfortunately, livestock was the method of choice.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThe woman beamed, revealing two copper teeth. “Bless you, lass! I make a chicken pie like no other. This fellow will be ready for you by supper.” She patted the wicker cage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon slanted the alarmed bird a wry look. “Right. Now, how can I help you?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThe farmer’s wife planted her bottom on the kitchen bench and bent over, her frowzy head disappearing beneath the table as she did something with her shoes. “It’s me feet.” She freed one and held the large appendage up where Ceylon could see it. “I’ve got fungus.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon bit her bottom lip, swallowing a laugh as the woman plopped her foot in Ceylon’s lap and looked at her expectantly. She cradled the ankle in her hand and raised the foot to the light. “All right, then. Let’s see what we can do for you.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThe fungus had eaten into the woman’s toenails and spread all over the foot, but Ceylon was confident they could cure it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Just remember to soak it in vinegar water, keep it dry, and use that cream I gave you,” she instructed the woman as she walked her to the door. Six people were seated outside on the firewood she used as stools. Ceylon nodded to them. “Sunset’s coming, so you’ll be my last patients for the day. Tell whoever comes next to take a marker to be in line tomorrow.” She gestured toward the peg in her wall\u003cspan\u003e that held the tin vouchers indicating the morning line-up.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHis ogress of a mother was the reason he’d been forced to travel nearly every road in the land, through sleet, storm, and fog in search of a bride. He’d found dozens willing, had brought home five, only to have them run squealing back to their fathers in mortal terror of his mother. At this point, even a witch for a wife was beginning to sound appealing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eBut was it too much to ask, he thought wistfully, that his wife be attractive? The women he’d brought home were average, but he’d been in search of a sweet temper to counteract his mother’s poison. Having failed, he’d settle for a woman who had all her teeth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eIt would have been easier if he’d stayed a farmer’s son, he thought bitterly. Elevation to the mistress of Wormhurst, a post his mother had appropriated after he was awarded the lands and title of baron, had only deepened her vanity and need to control. Nor was she in a hurry to give up her position to Uric’s wife; the woman he married would have complete control over his household.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHis only choice was to marry a woman strong enough to stand up to Maude, yet with character enough not to become a dictator. As his buck’s quick stride ate up the distance to the castle, Uric wondered if such a woman existed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"center\"\u003e***\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“If you want to get a husband, you’ve got to learn to flirt.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon rolled her head and favored her friend Calisto with an amused stare. “I don’t flirt.” The deep window seat she occupied had an excellent view of the courtyard. The day was grim, the wind chill. Those outside walked quickly, their heads bent against the brisk fall winds.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUnperturbed by Ceylon’s negative attitude, Calisto raised her brows. “You don’t flirt, you dance like a drunken farmer, and you own more leather than dresses. Still, I have hope for you.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon snorted and drew up a knee. “I’m quite the woman, aren’t I?” She smiled in self-mockery. “So pure, so radiant…” she quoted some of her suitors, the same men who hadn’t noticed her before her face healed. Amazing how they saw her now.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Purity is overrated.” Calisto jabbed a pin into the birthday dress she was sewing for Ceylon and yelped. She shook her hand and grimaced. “I should have commissioned you a letter opener. Something less painful.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Something more likely to be used,” Ceylon agreed helpfully.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“You’ll wear it or eat it.” Calisto tossed aside the green velvet and considered her friend. “You need to be nicer.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHere it comes. Ceylon widened her eyes in mock interest, even though she’d heard this speech before. With flawless red hair and a ladylike walk, Calisto was constantly surrounded by admiring suitors. She was also determined to mold Ceylon into her image. “I really should, shouldn’t I?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCalisto ignored the sarcasm and put her sewing things away. “For your own good, if not theirs.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon stiffened. So Calisto had decided to heal the healer, had she? Well, good luck! “And flirting is good because…?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThe seamstress sighed. “This coldness of yours does you no good.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eAnnoyed now, Ceylon sat up. “And how is it my fault that men are stupid? If they want to be shallow, I see no reason to encourage them.” Ever since her face had healed and men had seen what was underneath, their attitudes toward her had drastically changed. Men who’d barely noticed her suddenly watched her with hungry eyes. A few of the boys, now men, who’d grown up taunting her had reversed their tune and now attempted to court her. Old men, youths barely old enough to leave their mamas; all of them watched her. Raven was the only one who didn’t drool, but then he was vocal about his preference for buxom blondes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eSome of those men had been more than cruel. Gilroy had actually held her down and rubbed dung on her face when they were children. Dung face, he’d called her. That’s the kind of men who wanted her now.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHer chest squeezed. She was the same person behind the flawless skin, the same green eyes. Her smile was white, when it showed, and hadn’t her dark hair always been glossy? It was her face they wanted now, not the woman she’d always been. If she were scarred tomorrow, they’d want nothing to do with her.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eTheir hypocrisy sickened her.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon looked beyond the leaded glass at the gray day. A red bird flew by as she watched, a bright flash of color against the rain-swollen clouds. She wished she could fly away, too.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eInstead, she tried on the dress her friend had made.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“I’m not sure about this.” Ceylon tugged at the square bodice of the green gown. Air danced across her exposed skin. A gold-embroidered belt draped her hips and highlighted her figure, but it didn’t feel natural. “It needs more cloth.” A lot more. If Gilroy ever saw her in this, she could kiss her virtue goodbye.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“It needs nothing,” Calisto retorted and helped her down from the stool. “Let me help you. We don’t want to disturb the hem pins.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon threw on a loose peasant top and carelessly knotted the matching skirt at her waist as she waited for her clothes to be finished. The loose shirt was far too big and kept sagging, but Calisto was nearly finished.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCalisto had snatched Ceylon’s leathers when Ceylon changed, determined that she would walk out of here looking like a lady. In light of Calisto’s excitement, Ceylon let her have her moment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon doubted she had the personality to carry off the makeover. In the past, because of her marked face, she’d faded into invisibility when men caught sight of Calisto; hardly surprising, for she was a true beauty.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThat was no longer a problem, and she didn’t want Gilroy or his brothers drooling over her. She would have gladly skipped the dinner Lady Tennyson was giving, but she’d been commanded to appear. Ever since she’d cured her daughter’s vicious pimples, Lady Tennyson had fawned over Ceylon, spreading the word of her daughter’s cure far and wide. Now she was intent on securing Ceylon’s exclusive services as her private beauty consultant. Leery of being trapped in the castle on a daily basis with Lady Tennyson’s pig sons, Ceylon had been quietly fighting her fate. Only her position as an important healer had kept her safe, but she wasn’t sure how long she could resist without invoking her ladyship’s disfavor.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eOblivious to Ceylon’s thoughts, Calisto gave her a brilliant smile. “You look wonderful! Now you just have to keep away from Gilroy, and you’ll have a great evening.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“That’s a fun thought,” Ceylon said grumpily. “But thank you for your hard work. The dress is very nice.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eAbout to respond, Calisto shrieked in outrage and darted after her white monkey. It was dragging one of Ceylon’s favorite boots out of the bedroom. “Hey, you! Stop!”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCaught up in his favorite game and thrilled to have an audience, the monkey flashed her a wicked grin and darted through the door flap, screeching.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Stupid monkey!” Ceylon shouted. Last time it took a week to find her boot, and it had been in the stables, covered in muck. Furious, Ceylon hiked her borrowed skirts and dashed after him.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric looked up to see a woman dashing down the wooden stairs. The stairs were old and steep, leading to the upper room of a house built against the castle wall. They looked unsafe for walking, let alone running in skirts. Shouting threats at a monkey dragging a boot, she struggled to keep her loose clothes from falling off.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHer roar of outrage sounded across the yard as the monkey leaped from the stairs and into the nearest espaliered pear. “Bloody thief!” she yelled, oblivious to a dozen mounted strangers watching with fascination. “Come back with my boot!”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThe monkey noticed the riders before she did and froze in indecision; a tactical error. With a whoop of triumph, the girl swooped down on him. As she snatched her boot, her skirt chose to surrender to gravity. In the confusion of the moment, she neglected to drop the boot, and as she sank in an attempt to keep the skirt around her hips, her shirt slipped dangerously.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eOnly then, when she was down on her knees and in danger of an involuntary disrobing, did she notice the hooves of Uric’s stag.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric watched as her brilliant green eyes tracked up Behemoth’s long black limbs. They skipped up Uric’s leg and finally settled on his face.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHer lips parted. For a moment, it seemed as if she wanted to drink him in.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eA beautiful, hopefully available young woman. With all her teeth. He flashed her his best smile.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eInstead of smiling back, she stiffened, and an expression of mortification crossed her face. Her hand tightened on her clothes. Hot color stained her fair skin, and she frowned. “I could use some assistance,” she informed him sternly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHe couldn’t prevent a grin. There she was, dressed like a peasant, sitting in the dust, and she ordered him around like a queen. Chuckles surrounded him as he swung down from his mount. “Anything for you, fair maid.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eAnd she was fair, he noted as he gathered her into his arms. More than fair with those snapping green eyes and pretty pink lips.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Put me down!” she hissed as he hefted her easily, her panicked gaze swinging to his men as she gripped his leather armor. “I can walk.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“True, but I doubt you can remain dressed,” he countered. “But if that’s what you want...” He pretended to lower her.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“No!” She clung to him, no doubt knowing that the act would expose more than her dainty feet. “I...” She glanced toward the stairs she’d descended in such a rush. “I need to go there.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eObligingly, Uric strode up the steps. “What’s your name, sweetheart?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eShe frowned forbiddingly at his endearment. “Doctor Ceylon,” she informed him, her mouth set in a firm line.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHe smiled. Better and better.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eShe was embarrassed and prickly; he could understand that. He would like to see her in a better mood. A smiling, laughing Ceylon would be something.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric looked her over, already planning their first night. When was the last time he’d felt such an instant attraction to a woman?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“And what does your man call you?” he inquired, intensely curious. He prayed she had no such thing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eShe looked away. “I have none, happily.” Her tone made it clear she liked it that way.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“That’s good news,” he said cheerfully as he pushed aside the door flap and set her down. Temporarily blinded by the shadowed interior, he could guess that her gasp signaled the loss of clothing. The image brought a wide smile to his face. “Until later, sweet Ceylon.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“You left me on purpose!”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCalisto smiled smugly. “Of course I did.” She sighed dramatically. “Have you ever seen a face like that? So handsome!”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“I was almost naked!” Ceylon hissed. Her heart was still beating far too fast, and no wonder. The moment she’d laid eyes on the man she’d thought it might stop. With short golden curls and blue eyes, the man was handsome. He probably knew it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“He seemed to like you.” Calisto laughed at Ceylon’s expression.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“It isn’t funny!”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCalisto smirked. “I couldn’t quite see; was that a diamond winking in his ear?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon crossed her arms and looked out the window, determined to ignore her. She knew exactly what Calisto was up to.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eSly now, Calisto added, “And such broad shoulders! He carried you up here, wearing full armor, and wasn’t even winded.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“I’m not that big.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Nor is he as tall as some knights, but that should be more comfortable when he kisses you.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon’s body steamed; the man was the embodiment of her every midnight fantasy. “Don’t be foolish, Calisto! He’s a knight, which probably means he has an exalted opinion of himself and a bad case of the pox. If he comes to me, it will likely be for a cure.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCalisto choked.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Don’t laugh. You’d be surprised how many handsome men come to me for medicine when it starts itching.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCalisto’s eyes bugged. “Like who?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon crossed her arms and looked smug. “Wouldn’t you like to know? Just do yourself a favor and consult me before you choose a husband, would you? It might save you grief.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003ePoxed or not, Ceylon’s knight was in the great hall that evening as Ceylon made her way to the table. He stood by the fireplace, outlined by its flames. There was nothing warlike about his formal attire, but with a man like that, it didn’t matter. His military stance told you who he was.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eLady Tennyson’s daughter Annette stood at his side, a trifle too close. Her breathy laughter carried across the hall. A man Ceylon vaguely remembered stood beside them, providing the young lady with another welcome distraction.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eGilroy was there, too.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Healer Ceylon.” Lady Tennyson greeted her warmly, though she looked less than pleased by Ceylon’s improved appearance. Perhaps because her daughter was still unattached and flirting madly with her handsome guest? “Your dress is lovely, my dear.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“A birthday gift from Calisto the Seamstress.” Ceylon smiled. “She feared I might wear my boots to the table if she didn’t prevent it.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“She might have been right.” Gilroy appeared at his mother’s side, a drink in hand. Judging by his red eyes, it wasn’t his first. Dressed in scarlet, he looked Ceylon over boldly and with less restraint than usual. It made him ugly. “I wonder how the queen will take our little Ceylon?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon frowned, uncertain what the queen had to do with her.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Oh, so you haven’t heard?” Gilroy’s crooked teeth flashed in a nasty smile. “Baron Uric has stopped here on his quest to find a noble bride. The queen told him to fetch you while he’s at it.” The smile became a sneer as he visually raked her up and down. “Seems the queen is in need of a witch to brew her sisters’ beauty potions.” His gaze on the approaching Uric, he continued in mock dismay, “What a pity the queen’s command is law. I was looking forward to retaining your exclusive services, sweet Ceylon.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eLady Annette’s hand flew to her mouth as she tittered.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon felt the blood drain from her face. Shock at the queen’s command was bad enough. She wasn’t a beauty consultant! What was with these spoiled women?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Gilroy,” Lady Tennyson murmured, but the damage was done. Even worse, by the chilling of their expressions, the strangers didn’t know whether to believe his insinuation or not.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eShe looked at the dark knight and a mental gong sounded. Uric! She went rigid, all her silly fantasies instantly burned to ashes. He was Uric the Berserker? The man who was rumored to have traveled a thousand days in search of a bride to please his beastly mother? The mother that was said to have shaved one maiden bald when she refused to clean her chamber? \u003ci\u003eThat\u003c\/i\u003e Uric?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eShe wanted to hide. How could she have been so stupid? Of course, he would be looking for a bride, a woman far above Ceylon’s station. Some blue-blooded lady with more hair than brains. The most he would ever offer Ceylon was the position of mistress.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eIn the moment of silence, Ceylon heard herself say with detached calm, “Oh, I wouldn’t worry, Sir Gilroy. I’m quite certain another doctor will have medicine to cure your particular affliction. Have the sores burst yet?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eGilroy turned red. Before he could say a word, Baron Uric stepped forward, effectively blocking Gilroy’s path of retaliation. “Mistress Ceylon.” He gave her a slight bow, his gaze steady. Ceylon had the feeling that his attention was on his back, in case Gilroy attacked. “I’ve heard much about you.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon’s jaw locked. She imagined what Gilroy had said. By now, he probably thought the worst of her. “Have you?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“The queen is eager to make your acquaintance. She promises to make the journey worthwhile.” His smile was practiced, one he would give a business acquaintance. He wasn’t trying to woo her, which told her he expected her to go with him; that’s what one did when the queen commanded.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Winter is coming, my lord,” she said icily, still mad at Gilroy. “I despise being cold. Even the gift of an entire castle would not entice me outdoors in such weather.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHis eyes narrowed. “You would refuse the queen’s invitation?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon looked away, sorely tempted, but knowing she had no choice. “No.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThe single, tight word broke the tension. “Shall we?” Lady Tennyson said with a weak smile. “Dinner is ready.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eSince Lord Tennyson was away at the moment, Gilroy took his place at the head of the table, leaving Ceylon seated between his two brothers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric was stuck between Lady Tennyson and her coquettish daughter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Tell me about life at court, my lord.” Annette placed her hand lightly on his arm and stared deep into his eyes. “I want to know all about it.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eBeautiful, Uric thought, already regretting his journey. He was growing tired of women who could think of nothing but wearing silks and jewels and being presented to the queen. “Why don’t you tell me about yourself?” he asked with a hopeful smile. It was the right question, for she immediately launched into a discussion, freeing him to subtly watch the healer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eGilroy had filled his ears with many things, centering on her prowess in bed and general bitchiness when she didn’t get her way. Although Uric had his doubts that the obnoxious youth had ever touched her, he wondered. It wasn’t an uncommon arrangement, and both times he’d seen her she’d been in a foul mood. What did he know about the girl, anyway?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003ePity, he thought as he watched her over the rim of his goblet. She was pretty, and there was a straightness to her spine he liked.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eSuddenly Ceylon’s eyes widened. Clearly outraged, she shot a swift look downward. Her hand disappeared beneath the table, and her shoulder jerked. The young man next to her—Boyd, Uric thought—smirked.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric’s eyes narrowed as Ceylon stabbed a piece of peacock and chewed viciously. He had a good idea of the brother’s game and didn’t like it. No matter what she had or hadn’t done, the girl clearly didn’t enjoy being pawed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon stiffened again, and this time her fork disappeared underneath the table. The fat man on her other side, Amherst, gave a sudden squawk.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Are you all right, Amherst?” his mother called.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHe gave her a tight smile. “Perfectly. Just had a piece of meat go down wrong.” As soon as his mother looked away, he shot Ceylon a killing glare.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eAll was quiet until Ceylon’s eyes skewed around to fix the weasel-faced Boyd with a poisonous scowl.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Quite the weather we’re having, isn’t it?” Boyd asked innocently.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon gave him a fierce smile and dumped her wine in his lap.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHe howled and jumped up, his chair falling to the floor behind him. “Witch!”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric didn’t wait for Boyd to raise his fist. He leapt the table and thrust Ceylon behind him. Roland was instantly at his side. “Hold, Boyd! She’s under the queen’s protection.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eBoyd kicked aside his chair. “I don’t care! I’ll have her hide!” He charged.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHe found himself pinned and Uric’s knife at his throat. “Then maybe you’ll care about this?” Uric calmly pressed the razor edge into Boyd’s neck. A bead of red trickled from the light cut.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eNobody moved.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric waited a long moment to make his point and released him.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eBoyd stepped back, rubbing his throat. His expression was mutinous, but he didn’t attack Uric again.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric gave Lady Tennyson a slight nod, ignoring her offspring. “Thank you for your hospitality, my lady. Dinner was excellent. If you’ll excuse me, I’ll escort my charge home before she causes any more trouble.” He grasped the healer’s arm, not surprised to find her stiff and unresponsive. It didn’t slow him down as he half-dragged her from the hall.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“I can walk,” she told him coldly the minute they were outside.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Go ahead.” He released her, glad to see she kept up. She seemed as eager to leave that place as he was.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“What’s wrong?” A scrawny youth with wild black hair and a scruffy beard jumped up from a bench in the entryway as they approached. He handed Ceylon a coat and eyed the tall warriors suspiciously. “Do you need assistance, Mistress Ceylon?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Not from you, pup,” Roland said, barely glancing at him as he opened one of the massive double doors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon ignored him and gave the wary boy a tight smile. “Thank you for waiting, Raven. Of course, I’d like you to walk back with me.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eRoland blocked Raven from following her. “No, Crow, she wouldn’t.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon stopped and gave Uric a frosty look. “Are you forbidding me to bring my servant?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric considered the scruffy lad. If this ragged urchin was her servant, then she didn’t pay well. “Very well. Let him alone, Roland.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eRaven eyed the intimidating Roland like a young wolf as he moved to Ceylon’s side. Roland stood his ground, forcing the young man to walk around him as he turned his head to keep Raven in his sights.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“And Calisto wants to know why I never married,” Ceylon muttered as she extracted her gloves from her coat pocket.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Let me help you.” Raven hurried to take the coat from her and settled it around her shoulders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eSurprised, she blinked at him until she remembered that it was the sort of thing a servant would do. “Er, thank you.” She caught Uric looking at her and averted her eyes, hurrying out into the storm.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eFew people walked the dark streets. Occasionally a bundled person would hurry by the brick houses, only to disappear behind a door at the first opportunity. Frozen mud made an uneven walking surface, and the tiny frozen puddles crunched under her shoes, wetting her feet. “I knew I should have worn my boots,” she muttered.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Wear them tomorrow,” Uric suggested. “You’ll be traveling by coach, but it pays to dress warm.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Coach?” Raven said guardedly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon waved a silencing hand. “I need at least two days to settle my affairs. If I’m not going to be back until spring, I need to find a caretaker for my house and pack my things. Day after tomorrow is the best I can do.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Fine.” Uric stopped at her door. “In the meantime, I’ll have some of my men keep watch on your house. I didn’t like the look on Boyd’s face tonight.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eAbout to protest, Ceylon shut her mouth. The man had a valid point. “Fine. Raven, there’s a plum tart in the house if you’re hungry. Just take the whole thing home. Widow Godfrey made me two.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Yes, ma’am!”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon waited until Raven found the pie and came outside. The candle Raven had lit illuminated her unsmiling face as she nodded to the men. “Goodnight.” She shut her door, leaving them out in the cold.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eSo much for hospitality.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch1 class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cb\u003eCHAPTER 2\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric walked away from the healer's house, shaking his head. \"That has to be the strangest woman I've ever met. She dresses like a lady yet talks about wearing boots. Her servant wears rags, yet she feeds him like a king. Gilroy swears she's his mistress...\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\"Yet she defends her honor with silverware,\" Roland finished. They'd reached the stables, and he sent the stable boy to fetch two of their men. He crossed his arms and leaned against a post. \"Gilroy's lying.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\"He's the type.\" Uric propped one boot on a bench. \"Maybe we should investigate before we leave. I'd like to know what kind of woman I'm traveling with.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eRoland's grin was sly. \"You want her to be a virtuous maiden.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric spread his fingers, palm up. \"What's the alternative? That she sells herself for the occasional coin? I'll spend the entire journey fighting to keep her from impregnating herself before she's presented to the queen.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\"Hm.\" Roland withdrew a coin from his pocket, walking it through his fingers. \"My gold says she's never gone near Gilroy's bed. How about yours?\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\"Only oafs bet on a lady's virtue.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\"Speaking of which, if we're leaving in two days, I guess that means we'll not be having a wedding first?\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric frowned at him.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\"The fair Annette? The woman you came to see? Were you planning to offer for her before we leave, or was this another wasted trip?\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric looked aside as two of their soldiers entered the stables. \"We had to come for the healer anyway.\" He sent his men to guard the healer's house.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eRoland's eyes narrowed on the back of Uric's head. He was growing weary of tramping around the countryside just so Uric could reject bride after bride. Uric swore it didn't matter, but Roland suspected Uric was holding out for love.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eWho could blame him? Still, at this rate, they would be old and gray before Uric decided on a match.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eIt was time he took a more active hand in this romance business. He'd be home by spring, toasting his feet by the fire and drinking ale even if he had to sink to playing matchmaker.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCupid would shoot straight at Uric's heart, even if he had to stab him in the back.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\"Healer Ceylon? Are you daft?\" The sooty blacksmith wrinkled his brow and spat. The heat from the forge warmed his work shed, and daylight shone through the cracks in the door. \"Beg pardon, milord, but that girl wouldn't cozy up to Gilroy if he offered her the castle. Never could stand him, what with their history.\" He thrust the teardrop-shaped elk shoe back into the coals to heat. It took two shoes on each foot to shoe the divided hooves, and strong glue attached them to the hooves' thin walls.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eRoland polished an apple on his shirt while Uric tried not to look too interested. \"What history?\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThe blacksmith looked both ways and crooked his finger.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThey leaned forward.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\"It's rumored he's her half-brother, and a cruel one. Used to delight in tormenting her. Even held her down once and smeared dung in her face.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eRoland and Uric exchanged glances.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eAnticipating their next question, the blacksmith continued, \"No one knows if the squire or Lord Tennyson fathered her, but the entire village knew that Ceylon's mother was bedding his lordship. Used to flaunt the gifts he gave her right under the squire's nose. There were those who called the squire a coward for doing nothing about it, but never to his face. No one dared, for he was a mean fighter. But he loved little Ceylon, kept her happy with books after her mother died.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\"Does Gilroy know who Ceylon might be?\" Uric asked, sickened by the thought.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThe blacksmith abruptly turned and picked up his hammer. \"If he knows, he doesn't care.\" The grim set of his face revealed his feelings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eMuch enlightened, and deeply disturbed, the men left the shed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\"It seems you'll be doing the woman a favor by taking her away.\" Roland squinted at the gloomy sky. \"Can't imagine why she hasn't already left.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\"Her friends are here. It's not easy for a woman alone to give up everything she knows to go to a strange place.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eRoland smiled. \"Ah, but she's not alone anymore, is she?\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric shot him a sharp glance. \"Don't be matchmaking, Roland. I don't need your help.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\"Who said I was planning to help you?\" Roland raised his brows and swaggered away.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eAs his meaning sank in, Uric hurried to catch up. \"Wait a minute! Since when do you want her?\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eRoland batted playfully at an awning. \"What do you care? I won't get her pregnant.\" He was considerate that way, taking precautions where others wouldn't bother.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric's brows drew together. \"That's not the point.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\"What is?\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\"A woman like that will demand marriage.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\"So? With a little taming, she'll make a fine wife. Cuddly, too,\" Roland added as an afterthought.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\"I didn't see her fawning over you last night,\" Uric snapped.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\"I wasn't at my best. I'll have to try harder.\" Roland surveyed the merchant shops. \"I wonder what sort of gift she might fancy?\" He started toward a jeweler's sign.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric grabbed his arm and corrected his course. \"Don't be an ass! If you start bringing her gifts, she'll think you're trying to buy her favors.\" On second thought, maybe he shouldn't have warned him. A quick rejection would get the idea out of Roland's head.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eRoland eyed him. \"You're probably right,\" he said slowly. \"I suppose we should see about supplying our journey.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThe tension drained from Uric. Maybe Roland was coming to his senses. He clapped him on the back. Hard. \"That's the first intelligent thing you've said in an hour.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eRoland just smiled.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eNow that she was actually moving, Ceylon had overcome her initial resistance and was efficiently settling her affairs. The priest’s spinster daughter agreed to watch over the house. In fact, she was delighted.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“You can’t imagine how glad I am to spend some time away from mother and father,” she confided to Ceylon as she helped pack books. “And don’t worry about your patrons; I’ve always had a penchant for medicine. With that copy of your book and what I know about herbs, I think we’ll get on just fine until the new doctor arrives.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon sent her a grateful smile as she sorted out a few packets of essential herbs and medicines for her travel kit. “Thank you, Ermine. I’m very grateful you could help on such short notice. It eases my mind.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eErmine flipped her hand dismissively. “Don’t worry about anything. We’re all so proud of you! Why, it’s not everyone who gets a summons from the queen.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon gave her a weak smile. Yes, lucky her. Instead of staying inside her cozy cottage, she got to ride into the teeth of winter with a berserker and his barbarian friend.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eShe was still in the middle of packing when visitors knocked on the door.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“I just heard,” gasped the balding carpenter. Apparently, the news had alarmed him. “No one can believe it, least of all me.” He took her hand and looked imploringly into her eyes. “Surely you weren’t planning on leaving without giving me an answer to my marriage proposal?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eShe glanced helplessly to the side. Uric’s guards, stationed at either side of the door, listened with unabashed interest.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“I’m not sure this is the time,” she began but stopped in frustration when he sighed mournfully. Obviously, her attempts to let him down easy hadn’t gotten through. Very well, it was time for bluntness. “Oleander, I’m sorry, but no.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHis face fell.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“I’m truly sorry.” Loath to prolong the spectacle, Ceylon shut the door in his face. She hadn’t gotten two steps away when another knock sounded. With a groan, she turned back.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThe tailor’s wife, Natty, had brought her a new pair of wool socks. “I know you must be busy, but I couldn’t forget all you did for our little Timmy,” she said as she pressed the parcel into Ceylon’s hands. “God bless you, miss.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThe door had barely closed behind her when another caller showed up at the door. This time it was a villager with a feverish baby, and there was no question of not helping.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eTemporarily abandoning her packing, Ceylon prepared herself for a very long day.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eIt was after two o’clock, and Ceylon simply had to get out of the house. One more caller would be one too many. Tossing a coat over her shoulders and pulling on her woolen mittens, she sneaked out for a brisk walk.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eA light snow was falling. Flakes like white rose petals fell along the shingled roofs. Only the constant traffic in the streets prevented the snow from covering the frozen mud.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eShe hadn’t gone far when the sound of trumpets announced the return of Lord Tennyson and his company. Ceylon cleared the street with the others and stood at the side while his party rode through.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“He’s back from another pilgrimage,” she heard one man say.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eAnother man spat. “Aye. He’s become quite the holy man, our lord.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon snorted softly. Yes, their lord had become quite the spiritual wayfarer after Ceylon’s mother had died. Guilt could do that to a man.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eShe cast her eyes downward as she always did and waited for Tennyson to pass.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThis time his gelding’s dappled legs moved into view and stopped.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Mistress Ceylon,” Lord Tennyson said quietly. He waited until she was forced to look at him.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon dragged in a breath, rigid with rebellion. It had been a year since she had seen his light brown hair and neatly trimmed, pointed beard. At least twelve months since she had been forced to acknowledge the strawberry-sized red mark revealed by the receding hairline. Sick heat roiled in her stomach. A year wasn’t long enough.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“My lord,” she managed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eEyes as green as hers studied her solemnly. “I’ve heard the queen has sent for you.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon jerked her head in a short nod.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHis hands worked the reins. “I’m pleased she has acknowledged your skill. You’re certain to bring Marksheath honor in her service.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Thank you, my lord.” Ceylon looked through him.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHe hesitated a moment more, then nodded. He spurred his elk, and his party moved on.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon pulled her hood lower and hurried home, miserably aware of the staring crowd.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHer head ached.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eIt didn’t feel better the next day after wrestling with the sheets all night. It didn’t help that Raven was determined to follow her to Queenstown.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“I’m your bodyguard,” he insisted, tossing his feed sack of belongings on the table. The room was still lit by the fire and oil lamp. “You need me.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eLoath to contradict him, she bit her tongue and tried to think of a way to reason with him. “It’s cold. You have no elk, so you’ll have to ride in the carriage. It’s bound to be a long, boring trip.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Hardly,” he quickly assured her. “You’re going to visit the queen! You’ll be traveling with real knights.” His gaze desperately held hers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon shut her eyes. Of course, the knights. Raven’s dream. “You can come,” she said, massaging the bridge of her nose.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eJubilant, Raven swept her up in a crushing hug. “You’ll never regret it, Ceylon!” He gave her a fierce grin.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Yes, yes.” She disentangled herself, feeling to see that nothing was broken. “Just try to remember that when your feet are numb and your nose is frozen.” She wasn’t nearly as happy as he was. He was one more responsibility, for she’d worry about him the whole way. How was she supposed to look after a boy old enough to shave?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eShe eyed him, looking for clues, and found them in his bedraggled appearance. “Well, come on then.” She headed up the stairs. “I’ve got some of my father’s old things in the attic. Bound to be small on you, but they’re in good condition, and I can modify them on the way.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eSmall was an understatement. Ceylon hadn’t realized how tall Raven was until she saw his wrists sticking three inches out of her father’s coat. She stared at the pants with equal dismay. Those barely went past his calves. “I can do something about the shirts, but we’ll simply have to buy more pants.” And boots, she added silently. His shoes were cracked and close to falling apart.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHe shifted uncomfortably. “I can’t buy them yet.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eShe waved a hand. “Call it an advance on your wages, but we’d better hurry if we’re going to get you anything. It’s almost dawn, and the baron is sure to be annoyed at the delay.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eSure enough, when she opened the door, Uric was there, his hand raised to knock. A steam powered carriage waited. Black and silver, it had four fat wheels and a trail of steam coming from a pipe on the roof. People stopped to stare.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric smiled at her astonishment. “Glad to see you’re ready.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eMomentarily distracted by her first sight of the new invention, she said, “Er...not quite.” Ceylon tipped her head at Raven. “My servant will be coming, and I need a few minutes to buy him some warmer clothes. It was a last minute decision,” she added when he scowled.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric sighed. “Make it quick, then. We have some hard riding to do.” Her escort would be riding elks, it seemed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHe looked at two of his men. “Get her bags and put them in the coach.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon gave him a grateful nod and strode off, glad that she wore long underwear under her pants. Today was no day to be fashionable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Wouldn’t you like to ride?” he called, leading his elk.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“I’ll be riding all day,” she threw over her shoulder. “Besides, it’s only a few doors down.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eLights were on in the shoemaker’s house, though doubtless he wasn’t expecting business so early. “Boots, you say?” he muttered, adjusting his spectacles to peer at Raven’s feet. “For him?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“If you have them. We’re in a hurry.” Ceylon stepped in, pulling off her gloves as she went. “I’ll pay, of course.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThere were boots at hand, fortunately. They were a little big, but that was fine since Raven was growing. It also allowed room for a felt liner and another pair of wool socks, a plus in cold weather.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eBut when it came time to pay, Uric handed the old man a coin. He looked at Ceylon, whose hand was still in her pocket. “The queen is paying your expenses now.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHe was just as fast to pay the tailor, who fortunately had a few things ready. This time Uric had Ceylon wait in the coach to save time. Moments later, he sent the beaming Raven out with a large bundle. Nodding to the coach driver, Uric mounted his own stag, and they headed out.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“What’s all this?” Ceylon asked in surprise as Raven tossed his new bag into the coach. He opened it up and showed her his new clothes. Amazed at Uric’s generosity, and a little alarmed, for surely the queen hadn’t meant for the baron to be that generous, she watched Raven spread out his loot.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eRaven grinned and held up a garment. “I know! I couldn’t believe it.” He noticed what he held and flushed. He stuffed the underpants back in the bag.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon grinned.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eMore subdued, Raven held up a linen shirt. “Look at this! He got me three! And this coat, and socks, pants...” He showed her each item with the enthusiasm of a small child. “He barely even looked, just checked for fit and tossed it on the pile. Didn’t even blink when he heard the price.” His voice was awed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon let out a breath. Raven was too occupied to notice.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eShe stroked the furs that covered the leather coach seat, taking in the rough texture of black bear. There were softer fur covers folded on the floor, as well as a blue and yellow velvet quilt. There were orange and red brocade cushions, complete with gold cording. An unlit lantern hung from the ceiling, and it was surprisingly warm, thanks to the steam engine. There was even a basket of fancy snacks.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eAll of this for a country doctor? The queen had certainly gone all out...\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHer unease only increased when she spied the neatly wrapped package under Raven’s seat. It was done up in brown paper and tied with a string. The large tag had her name on it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eRaven helped her drag it out. “What is it?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon gasped as the paper fell away. It was a blue velvet coat lined with sheared beaver.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eReally worried now, she laid the coat aside and opened the window. The first thing she saw was Roland. “Sir Roland?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Yes, Mistress Ceylon?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Have you seen the princesses?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHe frowned. “Yes.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“And are they...” There was no way to put it delicately. “Just how ugly are they?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHis brows rose.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eShe sent a wild look inside the carriage, alarmed anew by her surroundings. “I can’t do miracles.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eRoland stared at her for a moment with the strangest expression, then threw back his head and roared.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric dropped back to see what was so funny. In spite of the chill, his head was bare, and he barely seemed to notice the wind ruffling his curls. “What’s the joke?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon glanced behind her again. “Is all of this on loan?” The idea relieved her. “That is, I know the coach is, and of course everything in it, but will we have to return the coat and Raven’s clothes?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric exchanged a glance with Roland, his eyes twinkling. “I doubt the queen will want to wear Raven’s clothes.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon flushed. “You know what I mean!”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHe shrugged, still in good humor. “What are a few clothes and one coat? Of course, you may keep them.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eShe ducked back inside. How ugly could the princesses be? What would the queen do to her if she failed to make them more attractive? Callion was said to have an even temper, but she had also placed more than one charlatan in the stocks.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eShe stuck her head back out, interrupting Uric and Roland. “I want you to witness that I never claimed to be able to help the princesses,” she said forcefully. “I’ve never made any claims at all.” When they stared at her with expressions of incredulity, she added, “It might keep me out of the stocks if you would remind the queen of this if I fail.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric looked puzzled. “She’ll hardly send you to the stocks, Ceylon.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Just in case, please remember.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eRoland squinted when she ducked inside. “Do you think she’s been sipping one too many of her own potions?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric only shook his head. Who knew what went on in a woman’s mind?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThey stopped to rest the elk at noon. Ceylon had been dozing in the carriage, but was quick to take advantage of the stop for a jaunt into the woods. On her way back, she noticed Raven returning from a similar errand and decided to begin breaking in her new “servant.” It only took a moment to retrieve her crossbow.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eShe selected a tree and moved away from the others. “Raven, come here!” She handed him a woven coil target the size of a saucer. “Hang this on that tree, would you?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eRaven frowned at the huge oak at the edge of the clearing. “All right.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eWhen he returned, she handed him the crossbow. “You once said you wanted to learn how to use a crossbow. Now’s a good time.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eFaint color came into his cheeks as he darted a glance at their escort, who were watching them with idle interest. “I know how to use one,” he informed her scornfully.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHer brow rose at his tone. The boy had better watch it, or she’d let him walk to Queenstown. “Show me.” As expected, her frosty stare took some of the starch out of him.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eLips compressed, he fired at the target. And had to jog to retrieve the red flagged quarrel. He returned it sheepishly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon accepted it, reset the weapon, and shot a quarrel into the target’s heart. She raised her brows in cool expectation. “Now will you pay attention?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eRaven scowled and darted a glance toward the men. “I can’t let a woman teach me such things.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThat annoyed her. She’d had just about enough of his fragile pride. “Then don’t tell anyone,” she retorted. “Besides, no one will care as long as you can shoot the eye out of a rabbit. Get on with it.” She handed him the bow and gestured for him to walk closer to the target.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Who taught you to shoot?” Uric handed her a mug of hot soup and sipped his own as they watched Raven run after his quarrel.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eShe accepted the mug with a nod of thanks and curled her chilly fingers around it, inhaling the savory steam. “My father felt a woman would be hopeless with a heavy sword, so he trained me to use a crossbow and hunt. He didn’t want me to starve if anything ever happened to him.” She was silent a moment. “He knew I would never marry.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Why not?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon frowned. “My face, of course.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“It looks nice enough to me.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“It didn’t always.” Uncomfortable, she focused her attention on the boy. “Get your arm up, Raven! Use the sights, don’t guess at your target.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric fingered his ragged ear. The tip had been sheared off in battle. “I know how you feel. I think this is the reason I have a hard time finding a bride.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Don’t be silly,” she snapped. What a stupid comparison. “Who would notice?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHis lips turned into a sly smile.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHer eyes narrowed. “I know what you’re doing. But my face was ten times more marked than yours will ever be. They called me…” Her mouth snapped shut.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Dung face?” he asked softly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eShe flinched.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“They were fools.” He gently lifted her chin. “I wouldn’t let my friends treat a girl like that.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eShe pulled away. Seeking a distraction, she watched Raven.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“When do you think he’ll discover that’s a repeating crossbow?” Uric murmured, close enough to tickle her ear.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eShe couldn’t help but smile. More reliable than a pistol, the repeating crossbow could hold six bolts at a time. “When his attitude improves.” She saw the men putting out the fire and quickly finished her soup. It was time to leave.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon spent the rest of the day playing travel chess with Raven. The board was specially made with pieces that pegged into the board to prevent jostling. Raven was terrible, but he was learning.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThe windows were too foggy to see out, but occasionally Ceylon rubbed the glass with her fist and peered out at the white world. Mostly there were trees shrouded in ice. Occasionally they passed a snow covered field, but there were more trees on this stretch of road than anything else.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThen there were the ruts. Ceylon winced as another one jolted her. By the time they entered a village of log houses and pulled into the yard of the town’s only inn, Ceylon was more than eager to get out. She looked askance at the faded paint on the wooden sign. “The Quaking Robin?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eA boy of eleven or twelve ran up to them with a slightly older girl at his heels. “Yes, mistress! Named in honor of our grandmother. Da says a minute with that old blabbermouth and you’d be quaking like a robin.” He leaned closer confidentially. “Ma’s got her tongue.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHis sister slapped his shoulder, jostling the gap-tooth grin from his face. “Hold yours, John-Wesley! You know better than to bother the guests with stupid chatter.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHer plain, pimpled face smiled up at Ceylon, an unusual occurrence. She really was a tiny thing. “Welcome, mistress! Are you to stay the night? Just tell me how many and I’ll run straight away to prepare the rooms.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon glanced at Uric for direction.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHe smiled at her. “Go inside and warm up. I’ll handle this.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eShe nodded and mounted the steps, admiring the spruce burrow logs that held up the porch roof. It was the first time she’d seen a log dwelling, much less one of this size. It even had two wings. The common room window was glass, but the others were oiled paper.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eClean wooden planks thumped under their feet as Ceylon and Raven entered, making certain to wipe their feet on the rush mat. That is, Ceylon remembered and made certain to prompt Raven. The orderly atmosphere of the place demanded it. In spite of the antlers and hunting trophies on the walls, the place showed the mark of womanly care. Oil lamps and arrangements of dried flowers graced the mantel and even the tables. Wreaths decorated the walls and bouquets of dried herbs as well as neat rows of braided onions and chilies hung from the rafters. Judging by the mouth watering aromas coming from the kitchen, the innkeeper’s wife certainly knew how to use them.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“This is quite a place,” Ceylon told the stocky woman who was tending the fire. “I’ve never seen a house built of log.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Hmph! We make real houses here, not those straw and mud block-things they make over the border.” The homely woman punctuated her comments with significant jabs of her long wooden spoon. She plunked it in the pot and eyed Ceylon with frank curiosity. “And where are you from, mistress?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon grimaced. “From over the border.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThe lady patted her shoulder. “Well, don’t you fret about it, mistress. Kate will feed you right and proper just the same.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Thank you.” Ceylon sat on a bench as Kate filled a mug from a kettle suspended over the fire.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Spiced cider? I make the best in town. I’ve also bread from the morning’s baking, a kettle of barley soup, rabbit pie, and a lovely roast duck, nice and juicy.” She winked at Ceylon. “I’ve been expecting your party, though I worried about the roads.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCider and a mug of soup were set before her and Raven. The girl from the yard appeared with a tray holding two golden-crusted loaves and a pair of fat pies. She deposited them and then hurried off. Moments later, she reappeared with a stack of plates, mugs, and cutlery. The mugs she took to the tap and filled to the brim with frothy ale, returning just as Uric and Roland strolled in.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric smiled at the proprietress. “Fast service as always, Mistress Kate.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eRoland raised his nose, took a deep breath, and sighed with satisfaction. “And tasty cooking.” He winked at Kate. “For a penny, I’d run off with you.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eKate waved her spoon. “Now none of that, you rogue! Sit down and eat your supper, my lord, and none of your teasing.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eRoland affected a glum air as he took the bench across from Ceylon. “She doesn’t respect me at all, love. What should we do with her?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon shook her head at him and raised her mug. “Why ask me? You’re the ‘rogue’ here.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHe gave her a rakish smile. “So nice of you to notice.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Pay him no mind,” Uric advised between bites. “He’s just angling for a warm bed so he doesn’t have to share a room with Raven.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“With Raven?” Ceylon looked between the scowling Raven and annoyed Roland. It didn’t seem like a good arrangement.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric grinned over his mug. “There were only two rooms with big beds left and one with bunks. I won the toss.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eRoland looked downright mean at that bit of news. To keep the peace, Ceylon offered, “Since they’re bunks, I could give him my room and share with Raven.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“No!” Raven recoiled in horror. “You’re a girl!”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Out of the question,” Roland announced sternly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“You’ll stay where you are.” Uric’s stare brooked no refusal.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon drew back, surprised at their vehemence. “I was only trying to solve the problem.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eMistress Kate clucked her tongue as she refilled mugs. “Where were you raised, mistress? Surely you know better.” When color rose in Ceylon’s cheeks, she added more kindly, “Your men are protecting your reputation, love. Anyone can see it. No need to get nettled.” She sniffed at Uric. “Though if you ask me, my lord, you’ll do better to hire a respectable companion for her if you want to do the job proper. It’s not fitting for her to travel alone.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon frowned. “I don’t think so.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThe tavern keeper frowned but dropped the subject and started in again when Ceylon left the room.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eShe clucked her tongue. “That one’s been too long without a guiding hand. Too used to doing what she pleases, and never mind the gossip.” She shook a finger at Uric. “You’ll not let her get in trouble, will you? She seems a nice girl, if a bit green.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Don’t worry, Mistress Kate. I promised the queen I’d deliver her in good condition. She’s in good hands.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHe sighed and went back to his ale. Determined to take his mind off the girl, he settled into discussing their route with Roland.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"center\"\u003e***\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Mmm....”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon’s eyes opened.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Oh yes,” someone moaned in a breathy whisper. The sounds were coming from the wall near her head.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Oh, yes! Do it! Just like that.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon tried to bury her head, but the sound got louder from what she hazily thought was Uric’s room.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThe wall began to vibrate as the bedstead on the other side rocked.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThat’s it! Ceylon tossed the pillow off and sat bolt upright. What Uric did was his business, but not when it disturbed her sleep.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eShe pounded on the wall. “Shut up back there!”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThere was a short pause, a giggle, then a man called, “You can join us.” More snickers and a feminine squeal. The pounding began again.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThoroughly irked, Ceylon tossed off her covers and pulled on a robe and shoes. It didn’t sound like they were going to stop soon, and the noise was getting worse. Making certain to slam her door, she trotted down the short hall and negotiated the stairs to the common room.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric was there, nursing a drink. One dark brow rose, and he stood politely. “They started about ten minutes ago,” he said sardonically. “I’m surprised you slept this long. My room is on the other side of them.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon sat down, rolling her eyes. “How inconsiderate! Surely the deed can be accomplished quietly.” She yawned and eyed his drink, so he slid it over.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eA dimple popped into Uric’s cheek. He couldn’t resist the chance to tease her. “You wouldn’t know?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eShe glared at him. “You’re as bad as he is, inviting me to join them.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThat remark made him scowl, but only for a moment. He winked. “It’s probably Roland, seducing a widow so he wouldn’t have to share a room. Likely he’s drunk and won’t remember.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eShe sighed and put her head in her arms.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Sweetheart?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Why are you calling me that?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHe ignored her question. “I’m sorry if you were offended. None of us think you’re immoral.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eShe propped her head on one hand. “I know. I’m just tired.” Her sleepy gaze moved over his face. “So were you born beautiful or were you one of those lanky youths with spots on his face and a scraggly beard?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHe laughed in surprise. “What?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eEyes half-closed, she stifled a jaw-popping yawn. “You heard.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHe shook his head. “You’re something when you’re drowsy, sweetheart.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eA soft snore was her only comment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“What?” Roland demanded over breakfast. “You’ve been glaring at me since you came down.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric hid his grin behind his mug as Ceylon flicked a bit of lint from her sleeve. She didn’t look the worse for being carried upstairs and tucked into bed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThe memory made his smile grow. She’d snuggled in his arms like a kitten and made a soft protest when he withdrew the warmth of his arms.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eIt was a wonder he hadn’t joined her. He’d been tempted.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“I’d appreciate it if you kept your activities quieter in the future. Some of us were trying to sleep.” She held his gaze, stabbed a sausage link, and deliberately sliced it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eRoland flinched. “What activities? The only thing I did last night was sleep.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUnconvinced, she measured the bewilderment in his expression and then considered Uric. “So you weren’t banging the wall with the widow next door?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eRoland choked, and Uric snorted beer out his nose.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“What widow?” Raven demanded as Uric alternated between laughter and coughing. “I wish he had! The man snores like a herd of bison.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThat earned him a glare from Roland. “Watch yourself, cub!”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eBefore Raven could provoke him further, Ceylon demanded, “Then who...?” Her eyes widened as she caught sight of the couple walking down the stairs. The others turned to see what she was staring at. Could that be the lusty pair?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThe wizened, short man with an enormous beak came just to his woman’s gargantuan bosom. He wore farmer brown, and the top of his scalp hadn’t seen hair in a very long time. He leered up at the woman, exposing the gaping holes that once held teeth, and squeezed her bottom.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eMadam Twin Peaks squealed and smacked coyly at his hand. Her thin lashes batted as she rolled her substantial shoulder his way, and her smile lifted the large, hairy mole at the corner of her mouth. Her left eye twitched.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eRoland drew back as they brushed by on their way to the door.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThe fat lady winked at him.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eRaven coughed. Uric snorted. Moments later, the entire table erupted in hearty laughter, all of it directed at Roland.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eEven Roland had to grin. “I’ve never been that desperate for a bed.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eIt was easy for Ceylon to forget her concerns while laughing with her escort, but once on the road, they came back.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Describe the princesses to me,” she asked Uric when they stopped. “What exactly is wrong with them?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHe ticked the problems off on his gloved fingers. “Too fat. Warts. Spots the size of boils.” He grimaced. “Two of them are as bony as their sister is large. You won’t have an easy time.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThere was silence as she pondered his words. “Yet the queen expects her sisters to become beautiful. That’s why she sent for me.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric kicked at the fire. “I doubt she expects anything. They’ve invited dozens of ‘experts’ to the castle, and none of them have helped. It’s probably the princesses’ pleading that made her send for you.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon’s shoulders slumped. “Yet she sent for me, and I’ve no desire to be lumped in with the rest of the failures. I can cure the skin afflictions, and if the princesses will work with me, I can do something with their bodies, but I can’t make a woman beautiful who isn’t.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“If you can do that, the queen won’t care. She’ll reward you handsomely simply for taking away the warts. She’s very fair,” he encouraged when Ceylon merely scowled. “She knows you made no claims.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon climbed into the carriage, sending him a frustrated look just before he shut the door. “I despise doing things halfway.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eRaven slouched against the cushions, staring at the fogged windows. “I hate riding in this box. A man rides an elk.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eShe raised a brow. The carriage was hardly a “box,” but he wanted to be outside with the men, doing manly things. “Perhaps I will buy one with the queen’s reward.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThat lightened his mood, and he was quiet for some time, likely dreaming of a war-elk.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon scratched her face, considering her problems. The dry air was causing her skin to flake and redden, but her winter face cream would soothe it. The only difficulty was that she had to use powder to keep her skin from shining, and it tended to leach all of the color out of her face. Short of applying cosmetics, there was no remedy for it, and she had never learned to use them...\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eShe drew in a quick breath. Cosmetics! That was the other half of the formula. True, she’d seen them overdone, and nobility frowned on them, but surely there were women skilled in their subtle use. Such a woman could accomplish what she could not, if she could only find her.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon started searching that very evening, in an unpromising little hamlet called Two Dog.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eIt didn’t begin well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Would you know if there is a woman here who is skilled in the use of cosmetics?” she asked the scrawny innkeeper.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThe man screwed up his dirty face and spit on the sawdust floor. “Only whores use face-paint,” he said, and went about his business, leaving her scowling.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Why?” Uric wanted to know. “You don’t need any.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eA little embarrassed by his compliment, she dropped her eyes to her wooden mug. She shouldn’t have. It was filthy. A crusty unidentified food remnant fell off the rim and into the ale. “No, but the princesses might. Does the queen use cosmetics?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Few of the women at court do, and it would take more than face paint to hide bumpy skin.” He lifted his mug and inspected it critically. “Not that it hasn’t been tried. Innkeeper!” He caught the crabby man by his shirttail and dragged him back when he would have walked by.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric’s eyes narrowed. “I paid good money and expect clean mugs. Have your boy wash them, and don’t try to pawn your watered ale on us again.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThe innkeeper shrank back and gestured for his ragged serving lad to collect the mugs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric signaled Raven with a tilt of his head to follow and supervise.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThe innkeeper puffed up, but an icy stare from Uric deflated him. His complaint came out a whine. “I’m not used to serving such fine guests, my lord. That lot don’t care what they get so long as there’s plenty of it.” He nodded to the filthy group of patrons crowded into the rest of the tavern. Sure enough, they were stuffing their faces without complaint.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“They have their standards. I have mine.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHis cold tone made the innkeeper bow and back away. “Yes, my lord.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eCeylon couldn’t help her shiver of fascination. This was a side of Uric she hadn’t seen. He didn’t even have to raise his voice to make someone quiver. Was a man born with that kind of authority, or was it something one learned?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHe noticed her sideways glance. “What?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Is that sort of thing handed out with the title, or is it something you learned? It’s rather piratical.” She had a secret love of swashbuckling pirate romances.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“I hate to disappoint you, but I’ve never been to sea.” He leaned back and accepted a new mug of ale from the innkeeper’s boy. He slipped the lad a coin, which quickly disappeared.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHis gaze traveled over her, frankly appreciative. “Though at the moment, I’m wishing I were a pirate.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eFire flooded her cheeks, and Ceylon blessed the smoky, murky light as she looked away, pretending interest in the loud laughter at the next table. He’d fooled her these last days. She should have known better. Wasn’t he the queen’s champion, her leashed berserker? Men grew quiet at his name, and women shivered. He was a legend. Who was she to tease him as if they were equals?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eRaven had just returned, so she tried to lighten the conversation that was growing deeper than she could handle. “I’m not worried. The gallant Raven will protect me.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eHer comment fell like a stone into an invisible pool. Raven’s look told her he didn’t enjoy being put on the spot.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric’s said she was a fool if she thought a boy could stop him.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThe food arrived, providing a distraction. She bent her head and pretended great interest in the dark, heavy bread.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eThe sour rye didn’t hold nearly as much interest for Uric as the woman choking it down. He’d enjoyed it when she’d sparred with him; before she’d lost her nerve, anyway.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003e“Bread not to your taste?” Roland inquired of Uric in his native language. “Or do you crave something sweeter?”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eUric’s mouth curved wickedly. “Honey,” he murmured in the same tongue.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"western\" align=\"left\"\u003eRoland smiled.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Autumn Dawn","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46169166282980,"sku":"LadiesinWaitingEbook_Bundle","price":15.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0661\/9771\/7220\/files\/Goblin_Bundle.png?v=1742838769"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0661\/9771\/7220\/collections\/Goblin_Bundle.png?v=1742838832","url":"https:\/\/www.autumndawn.com\/collections\/ladies-in-waiting-ebook-bundle.oembed","provider":"Autumn Dawn","version":"1.0","type":"link"}