Promise: Daughter of Arden, #3

DRAMATIS PERSONAE

Ardeners

Maleen, Princess of Arden

Marietta (Aunt Etta)

Lady Bradmore of Ardemore

First Minister Gooldon of Ardenay

Lord Gavrin of Tallot Province

Lady Tanoth, former lady-in-waiting of Princess Maleen

Lady Alith of Naloth

Lord and Lady Cotner of Ardemore

Sage Shehar, Writings Sage

Ehun & Aunt Nel (smuggler and cook)

Olen & Adria (farm folk)

Traana

Abra and Danna (seamstresses)

King Darrick

The King’s Elite

Raff

Guadal

Pitos

Drannethites

Crown Prince Jared

Prince Kadrien

King Etham & Queen Karis (deceased)

Steward Holden and Lady Sarai

Dracken

Danielle

Derlenna

Donal

Soldiers

Henrin

Merrick

Alteron

Sarric

Cedric

Chryssion Castle Staff

Dame Henga

Maid Nara

Maid Katriona

Rolf

Cook Rumah

Gardener Tamman

Seamstress Sharron

Sage Agata, Worship Sage

Sage Edriel, Castle Worship Sage

Ambassador Odrin (formerly to Arden)

Zephians

Princess Annet

Lady Lynette

Lady Jenna

Lady Chelsen

Ambassador Kohn (in Dranneth)

King Bertram

Pandorians

King Gregor

Prince Melanor

Others

Sumbdala

Lady Patrice

THE PROPHECY

In memory of the deliverance

of Arden on Bannett Hill,

When the kingdoms of the south

were brought low by the hand of the Mighty One . . .

War will not depart from you, O Beautiful Arden,

This present peace is the calm before the storm

As clouds darken the sun,

The flower of the kingdom will die

and her bloom will be entombed—

Her radiance will be hidden from the sun.

Know this, O Beautiful Lady—

Your sacrifice will be your freedom

and your throne.

Then the lone, barren apple tree

Beside the Great Spring

Will bear its fruit to final victory

and final defeat.

PART I

AUTUMN

1

THE ARRIVAL

Maleen was exhausted. Their journey of the past few months had taken them through hills that had become mountains. The passes were clear, and the roads were good, but steep. If it hadn’t been for the startling beauty of valleys that suddenly opened at their feet like mysteries revealed, Maleen didn’t think she could have made it.

But now they were almost to their destination. Prince Kadrien had passed the word that it was a half-day’s journey down to Castle Chryssion. They would camp here for the night and leave at daybreak.

This evening they could stop and look—and look, and look. Maleen took advantage of the chance, and, wrapping her muddy-green cloak about her, she stepped to the edge of the hill. She’d never seen anything like this castle and Dranneth’s capital, Chryssion, with Lake Chrys beyond it. The late sun slanted

from behind her and the company she traveled with, flooding the space below and casting stone walls into bronze and shadow while polishing the lake into a glowing mirror.

The castle, though set lower than Maleen’s vantage, still nestled on top of its own high hill. The stone was gray, much different than the brownstone of her old home, Ardenay Castle. About its tall walls, blue pennants flapped on high turrets. To its south side, green terraces stepped down to a blunt cliff, but at the base of the cliff, the city of Chryssion spread out until it wrapped itself about a great bay on Lake Chrys. Lake seemed a meager word. If Maleen hadn’t seen the shadowy purple peaks south and east of it, she would have thought she was looking at the Morain Sea. It was no wonder Dranneth was known for its great ships. A handful docked in the harbor port, visible even from this perspective.

Midway to the shoreline, glimmering in the late light, stood a domed building larger than any other in the city. Maleen wondered how it was able to glow as it did.

Is that the Council Hall? she asked the guard, Henrin, who stood near. That domed building that’s shining.

Henrin, a slight, ugly man stepped forward and followed her finger. Ah! he said. A smile lit his face, transforming it. No, not council. Though I suppose it is where we get our most vital council. It is our Akklesia. Pride rang in his tone.

Akklesia! But it’s so big! And what makes it shine like that? "Right now, I’d say the sun is catching the translucent stone

of the dome. Once it’s dark you’ll be able to see the glow of the Flame through it. Our ships use it as a beacon."

It is lovely, Maleen breathed. I wish we had one like it in Arden. Even the one in Ardemore was nothing like this.

I have heard it has no equal. The Stone Sage Granimor designed and built it years ago before war threatened.

Sage Granimor! It was strange to hear his name after all these years. I’ve only seen one other thing he built. And it wasn’t beautiful, she added silently, even though it saved my life.

Well, now you have seen three things. He also designed the terraces that come down from the castle, commissioned by our late queen. You could say he was a favorite here for many years.

Is he here now?

Oh no. I believe he was commissioned last by King Bertram and is somewhere in Zeph.

I see, Maleen said, relieved. It might complicate things to run into the one man who knew the secrets of her tower.

We have some of Arden’s treasures in safe keeping in our Akklesia, the guard said, returning to what was obviously his favorite place in Chryssion.

Really?

Yes. Ardenay’s library, as well as the Writings Sage. We were grieved by the loss of Ardenay, but thankful we could help in a small way.

Hardly small. I’d heard the library had been transferred, but the Writings Sage as well? This might be the saving of Arden.

Henrin smiled warmly at her, his thin, sensitive face gentle. It was hard to believe this small man had cut down the slaver Brathem, but witnesses in their band confirmed it.

We pray it will help Arden’s restoration, he said. But we continue to hope for the return of her king. His reign was just. Yes. Yes, it was, wasn’t it. Maleen pushed the words out around the ache in her throat. She already knew not to ask about King Darrick’s daughter. The company from Dranneth had no doubts that she was dead, and Maleen had no way to prove them wrong.

Darkness drew in. The sun’s last light left Lake Chrys, and the glow of the Flame shone in the dome of Chryssion’s Akklesia. Maleen nodded to Henrin and moved back to the small fire Raff had kindled for her, Marietta, and the other single women who remained in the party. Raff, of course, was gone by the time she arrived. She sighed in relief and frustration over this, sat beside Marietta, and took the bowl of stew offered to her.

Be careful, dear, it’s still hot. Raff was sure to keep it in just the right spot.

Naturally, Maleen said. She lifted the veil that concealed the lower part of her face and sipped the soup carefully. Raff was the quintessential liegeman and a true protector. She could fault him for nothing. Nothing except that he regarded her as a failure, and his bond to her an unpleasant duty.

Maleen had little time to wallow in remorse. She had swallowed only a few bites of stew when a commotion at the edge of the camp drew eyes and ears. Two uniformed men on horseback entered from the direction of the city and dismounted before Prince Kadrien’s tent. Kadrien came out to meet them, greeting them by name.

Alteron! Merrick! It has been too long since we last met. But what brings you tonight? We’ll return tomorrow. Didn’t Sarric reach the Keep with my message?

Sire, yes, one answered, as both dropped a knee before the prince, then stood again. The castle is preparing for your coming, and the Crown Prince was thankful to hear your news. But he felt it would be wise for you to come tonight. The king—your father— Here, the man faltered. Kadrien reached a hand to his shoulder.

He’s not—

He still lives, Your Highness, but Prince Jared feels he is hanging on only to see you once more. The Prince desires you come at once to have as much time with his majesty as you can, before

Say no more. Kadrien turned to the tent, then paused and looked about. Henrin! he called. The slight soldier stepped into the firelight.

Henrin, I leave you in command. He glanced around again, then motioned into the shadows beyond his tent. Raff stepped forward and bowed. Raff, I know I can depend on you to get the refugees where they need to go. Holden will be waiting for you at the castle.

Yes, Your Highness. Raff bowed again.

You may have full confidence in us, Sire, Henrin added. Take your whole mind and heart with you now. The One Who Comforts is with you.

Kadrien swallowed hard and clasped Henrin’s arm. Then he turned brusquely into the tent. Henrin turned to Raff with a nod, and Alteron stepped forward.

I’ll ride back with the prince, he said, but Merrick will stay and bring you abreast on the news of the past weeks.

Thank you, said Henrin. The last dispatch we received was a month ago. The prince—well, all of us—were growing anxious.

The two messengers nodded, and Maleen could see their drawn brows highlighted by the firelight, creases deeply shadowed.

There hasn’t been any new tragedy, Merrick said, his deep voice cutting through the dark. Not any new news, really—

He broke off as Kadrien emerged from his tent, pack shouldered. Another soldier was ready with his horse, and all dipped their heads as he and Alteron mounted. Kadrien swept a final look over the camp, nodding to Maleen and Marietta when he caught their eyes. Then he turned to Alteron, gave a final nod, and they were off, horse's hooves clattering over stone in the darkness. Henrin sighed, looking after them, then turned to Merrick.

He held a hand outward toward Kadrien’s tent.

You have ridden long. Come in and be refreshed. The prince would want you to. You can fill us in as you eat. Raff, join us, will you?

The men ducked through the flap, and the rest of the camp turned back to their own firesides, the buzz of conversation rising above the night hum of insects.

So, do you suppose this will speed up the wedding plans? Danna, one of the women at their fire, asked. She leaned into the light, her eyes glinting. Maleen winced, knowing the gossip sure to follow. Danna and their other fireside companion, Abra, had been part of the group liberated by Dranneth from the slaver and her brothers back on the border between Arden and Dranneth. The women were seamstresses from Naloth in Arden; their small business had fallen into debt under the Pandor regime. As a result, they had been sold to Taluin to pay it off. To say the least, they had no desire to return to Arden under Pandor’s thumb, and they had eagerly latched onto their potential future in Dranneth. All loyalty to Arden had shifted, and they drank in any news they could get of Dranneth’s royal court. Oh, wouldn’t that be lovely! Abra gushed, then paused.

But, she sighed, I had hoped to see King Etham. And when he dies, there may be months of mourning, and no one will want wedding clothes.

We can set up shop and sell mourning clothes, Danna suggested. And soon, the two had their heads together, deep in plans. Maleen sighed and shifted her weight uncomfortably. She looked over to see Marietta watching her, mouth pursed slightly. I don’t want to talk about it, Maleen frowned. We’ve listened to enough speculation from— she motioned toward the two women. It doesn’t change our plans.

No, I suppose it doesn’t, Marietta said. She looked toward the glowing tent where voices rose and fell. Now and then, Raff ’s distinctive rumble broke through.

A couple months before, soon after their rescue from Taluin and the skirmish on the North Post Road, Raff appraised Marietta of new developments in Dranneth. Marietta shared the news with Maleen, and within days all the refugees were talking about it.

King Etham still lives, Marietta told Maleen as they followed behind the Dranneth troops, wending their way on their new road to the north and Chryssion in Dranneth. But his wound festers, and the healing sages have not held out hope. The country is girding itself for the future and for its new ruler. Crown Prince Jared is well prepared, of course, and Pandor isn’t making moves northward, but who knows how long that will last. Dranneth suffered many losses in the war and needs to cement alliances with Zeph.

Good luck with that, Maleen grimaced. My dear grandfather, King Bertram, wouldn’t even form an alliance with his son-in-law.

We-e-ell, Marietta said slowly, it looks as though Dranneth has succeeded where Arden failed.

What? How?

A betrothal. Prince Jared is now betrothed to the Princess Annet, your cousin. He was in Zeph earlier this year and returned to Chryssion with the alliance confirmed.

Maleen paused in her stride. She had almost forgotten she had cousins; after all, she had never met them. Her grandfather was the only one from Zeph’s court who’d made the journey to Arden’s capital of Ardenay, and Maleen had never traveled to Zeph. Princess Annet was the daughter of her mother’s twin sister, the youngest child of three. Her oldest brother, Charlson, was the Crown Prince of Zeph. The only other thing Maleen knew was that Annet was a few years younger than she was and had grown up in Zeph’s court with her mother, lord father, and brothers.

And now Jared was to marry her cousin and make a firm alliance with Zeph. Jared, the very prince her father had hoped she’d marry to avoid Pandor’s clutches. Jared of the unkempt black hair and fabulous war horse. Jared, the hero of Dranneth. I’m so sorry, Marietta said, reaching over to take Maleen’s hand. Maleen squeezed it, then released it with a short laugh.

It makes sense, she said. It doesn’t do any good for me to try to fulfill Father’s original desire. There is no Arden throne at the moment—Dranneth needs all the help it can get, and if Bertram will actually help because of this marriage, all the better. We’re going to Dranneth to strengthen those from Arden—you know that, Marietta. Though how we shall do it. . ." Her hand rose to her chest, then fell away. There was no hidden signet ring on a chain of golden thread. That was gone with Taluin. Raff was still furious that Maleen had given it up, despite Marietta’s insistence that Maleen had no power or choice in it.

Marietta strode forward, frowning. Raff has it in his head that only your seal can prove who you are. But there are those from Arden’s court who do know you. We need to find a way for them to meet with you privately. You can remain veiled—it seems safest to maintain this ruse—but we also need to get you to a trusted Worship Sage as soon as we get to Chryssion. A trusted sage can give you the proper blessing, and that should give us a better idea of what steps to take.

Maleen merely nodded. Marietta had much more faith in the Dragon Fever thank offering and blessing than she did. Every blessing Maleen had been given only seemed to confuse her more. And since the skirmish with the slavers and the death of young Darrick—the peasant with her father’s name who had been a fellow captive—Maleen had felt anything but clear about next steps.

The rest of the journey through the mountains of Dranneth had brought no new breakthroughs or news. Raff kept his distance, communicating with Maleen through Marietta. Prince Kadrien had checked in on them periodically, but his concern for them was only as wards of Raff. Raff, they discovered, was the brother-in-law of Steward Holden of Chryssion Castle.

Well, there’s some enlightenment, Maleen said sardonically when she heard. Not that it explains who he was in Ardenay. Marietta just shook her head.

Now here they were by the fire a couple months later, listening to Danna and Abra chatter about their bright future sewing mourning clothes and bridal raiment for the elite of Dranneth. Tomorrow they would enter Chryssion and seek shelter there.

I saw Chryssion’s Akklesia earlier, Maleen said, remembering her conversation with Henrin. It was a dome of light right in the middle of the city. Henrin says it was designed by Sage Granimor.

Marietta’s eyes lit up. I look forward to seeing it.

Oh—I almost forgot! You know how we learned that Ardenay’s library was brought here? It seems our Writings Sage came as well.

Marietta gasped. Sage Shehar? Here?

Her exclamation was so forceful that Danna and Abra’s chatter paused, and they looked at her curiously.

Is all well, Dame Etta? Abra asked.

Marietta’s eyes shone, and her smile split her thin face. Yes! All is very well.

The women waited expectantly, but when Marietta only continued to grin, they smiled politely and went back to their plans. Oh, my dear! Marietta breathed, squeezing Maleen’s hand tightly. This is better news than I ever imagined.

Maleen laughed at the older woman’s exultation. I thought you’d be glad to hear it, though I admit I didn’t expect quite this enthusiasm.

Ah! This is such an answer to prayer, Marietta sighed, glancing toward toward the spangled heavens. You see, we can trust Sage Shehar completely. I’ve known him since I first came to Ardenay—he was one of the Worship Sages studying under my grandfather. When Grandfather died, the Worship Sages unanimously appointed Shehar in Grandfather’s position as the Writings Sage, and he has served without wavering since. He even let me continue my studies under him. I have never known a wiser, more humble man. And best yet, he knows you. We can go to him with your oil of thanks.

Well, then, Maleen said, that does help.

I must talk to Raff, Marietta said. Sage Shehar will be the ideal person to verify you to those loyal to Arden.

She paused. She smiled again at Maleen, this time cautiously. Really, dear. He is to be trusted. The leaders of Dranneth depend on him as well; they have for years. If he were to speak to the Prince

Maleen groaned in exasperation. Honestly, Aunt Etta! Haven’t we been over this? Dranneth has done more than enough for Arden. We can’t complicate Jared’s alliance with Zeph by bringing me into the picture. Let’s build our network quietly, and when we are stronger, we can infiltrate Arden and retake it.

I still think you’re being ridiculous, Marietta said bluntly. Even Raff wants you to make yourself known to Dranneth.

Without my seal? Without anything to offer in thanks for all they’ve sacrificed for us? No, I can’t see it.

Marietta relented with a shake of her head, and Maleen sighed in the darkness. She rested her chin on her knees and gazed into the glimmering embers of the fire. It was good to know they had someone they could trust waiting for them in Chryssion, though it didn’t make the future any easier. Deep down, she admitted that there was another reason she resisted making herself known to Jared. Before the war and the tower, she had been an immature brat, and it mortified her to think of showing herself to him now. Besides, he was long past any thought of her and now had a new bride to look forward to. She wasn’t about to stride in and drag up past promises her father had made—especially because Jared had never bound himself to them.

They have already done too much for us, she told herself again. The fire snapped back at her, sending a whiff of dying fir into the air.

They broke camp in the cool gray light of dawn as all the birds gave thanks for the new day. Maleen stretched, not feeling the birds’ enthusiasm. She was hardier than she’d ever been after months of sleeping among roots and hiking hills and roads, but she longed for a real bed. Marietta’s groan as she reached her arms skyward echoed her feelings.

There were no morning fires, as all were eager to be on the move. A bit of soldier’s bread and dried meat was passed around, and each saw to his or her own pack. The group was a good bit smaller than it had been when first rescued by Dranneth troops. Most of Prince Kadrien’s men had remained near the border, and as they had traveled, some of their fellow freedmen had stayed behind in the villages they passed. Now only ten of them were left, along with ten of Prince Kadrien's soldiers.

The previous spring, Raff had met his patrol and asked to assist them in exchange for helping him watch for two noblewomen of Arden he had promised to get to Dranneth. A month later, the patrol surprised Taluin’s scouts and then attacked, only to discover Raff ’s wards among the captured slaves. All this Raff had shared with Marietta in the days following their rescue. Maleen had listened in but made no attempt to enter the conversation. The death of Young Darrick weighed like a heavy yoke on her shoulders. She understood better why Raff hadn’t come sooner, but a part of her still wished he hadn’t delayed. Perhaps the young man wouldn’t have had to step into Taluin’s path and die on the woman’s blade. Perhaps Taluin would have been stopped, and Maleen’s signet ring would have been reclaimed. Then Raff wouldn’t be so disappointed in her, and she would know better how to proceed.

But perhaps was not what was, and as the miles had passed under her feet, Maleen felt the burden of Young Darrick’s death lighten and separate from her sorrow over the loss of her father and kingdom. Hope glimmered around the edges, though not brightly, as Raff maintained his stony obeisance toward her. She still didn’t know how to speak to him, and though Marietta tried to play the mediator, she could only relay information back and forth. She was the one who told Raff that Maleen had seen Prince Melanor on the Border Road and that this Prince of Pandor still seemed determined to find the allegedly dead Princess Maleen. Raff cast a sharp, quizzical eye on Maleen—she almost thought he’d ask her a direct question—but he only grunted and went off to speak to Kadrien.

Kadrien was intrigued, and at camp that evening, he’d called Maleen, Marietta, and Raff to his fire to get Maleen’s account of the story. Maleen found herself stumbling around some of the details. She briefly told of the mysterious carriage they’d seen on the Border Road and Melanor’s arrival and interaction with the occupants, but then she focused on Melanor’s discussion with Taluin, and how he pressed to see her prisoners because he had heard she had some noblewomen in the group.

And he seemed to think one was Princess Maleen? Kadrien asked, frowning as his brown eyes searched Maleen’s eyes over her veil.

Well, no, he just wanted to see the prisoners, Maleen hemmed. It was Taluin who said he seemed too eager in his search for women posing as the dead princess. He said something about it being for the security of Pandor’s rule.

Kadrien glanced at Raff, who remained impassive.

We’ve heard rumors like this before, he said, including the women in his confidence. Melanor, at King Gregor’s command, seems to be doing all he can to prove that the princess died in the fire in the tower. One of our men even heard that Gregor still has hopes she’s alive so Melanor can marry her and make the union of Pandor and Arden more palatable—for whom, I’m not sure.

Still? Maleen gasped, remembering Melanor and Taluin’s passionate kiss. That’s horrible! He’s revolting!

Do you think so? Kadrien grinned. You might find your opinion in the minority among women. Even Princess Maleen was known to be smitten.

Maleen blushed furiously and was thankful her hood and veil hid her face completely. She could think of no rejoinder and no excuse for her younger self.

I can’t imagine she’d ever want to marry him now, she said. No, Kadrien said. He frowned. It would be an awful fate, worse than dying in that tower.

He had asked a few more questions about which way Melanor had headed when Dranneth appeared on the scene, but this seemed only for the purpose of confirming what his own men had seen. Melanor had headed back east, back into Arden, away from the Border Road.

Maleen had heard no news since then, but she pondered what Kadrien had told them. Melanor certainly seemed bent on finding her, and it was a grim thought that Gregor hoped to marry her to his son. She wondered if Pandor would have sided with the Aharrans in the war if her father had considered a marriage alliance with Pandor. She wished she could ask Raff; she was sure he knew much of her father’s thoughts and plans before and during the war. But Raff was as close-lipped about his connection to King Darrick now as he’d ever been. Why did he think she should be open about who she was when he was satisfied to remain only Steward Holden’s brother-in-law to the Dranneth patrol?

And so, the journey had passed, and here in the gray morning strode the gray man, colorless, yet powerful.

Are you ready then? Raff asked brusquely.

All set, Marietta said cheerfully. Maleen’s voice stuck in her throat.

When we reach the castle, I’ll take you directly to Holden. Who knows what state we shall find things in with the king dying, so there will be no audience with the king or crown prince for a while. But Holden will know where to put you. He’ll have jobs, I’m sure. Always was good at finding jobs for people.

That will work well, Marietta said. She looked over at Maleen, who nodded. And Raff, we discovered last night that Sage Shehar is at the Akklesia. He’ll be the best one to go to for the blessing. We’ll want to arrange for that as soon as possible. Ah, Raff said. Hadn’t thought of him. Yes, good idea. He can make the right connections for us. Maybe put in a word with Dranneth—

No! Maleen exclaimed, drawing Raff ’s steely eye and turning a few other surprised heads. No, she hissed.

It’s no good, Raff, Marietta sighed. I already tried that tack.

Raff grunted and swung away from them, nodding to Henrin, who approached as Raff strode off.

Good morning, ladies all. Henrin smiled at Maleen and Marietta, then Danna and Abra, who came up behind them. Are we all set? Very good! Just follow Merrick and me. The others of the patrol will come behind.

How is King Etham, Henrin? Marietta asked.Did you get more news last night?

Henrin’s face fell. The word is bad, he said.The king took a turn for the worse soon after Prince Jared returned from Zeph. He’s been in a downward cycle since. We’ve all expected this was the end, though we hoped that the One Who Heals would lay his hand on him. Etham has been a good king.

A great king, Marietta said. I am so sorry.

It has been a rough road for all of us, Henrin said. Few of our sorrows have been of our own cause in this war. It is good to know, though, that even so, the Mighty One can make things beautiful again. Even our sorrow can turn to joy. He smiled softly at them, then turned back toward the other soldiers.

He reminds me of Olen, Maleen said, looking after him, thinking of their friends who had harbored her when she had Dragon Fever.

They fell into pairs behind Henrin and Merrick, except for Raff, who strode alone, staff in hand, wrapped in his own thoughts. Most of the Arden refugees hadn’t known each other before capture by Taluin and her brothers, but bonds and friendships had formed in their travels, and each seemed to feel they had someone to turn to in this new life.

The trek toward the castle was all downhill, and the road was smooth. Thankfully the weather had been dry, so there were few ruts or stumbling places. Still, within a couple hours of steady downward hike, sweat trickled down beneath Maleen’s cloak and veil. Not for the first time, she longed to throw it off and feel the breeze on her face.

Pines towered over them, and maples and oaks lined the road. Here and there, birches shone white between the darker woods and greenery. Maleen had seen more and more of these in the northward journey. The birds still held court in the trees, and small creatures rustled the underbrush; now and then, a squirrel dashed across the road almost under the hooves of Henrin and Merrick’s horses.

At one turn, their view opened before them. The plain surrounding the castle was much closer now, and the battlements were at eye level. Blue pennants snapped in the breeze, the silver falcon darting in and out of the folds. Beyond the castle shone Lake Chrys, glittering blue and silver like the pennants.

Suddenly one of the women in the group called, Look! The flags!

Maleen focused back on the battlements where soldiers now swarmed. At each flag pole, a man now lowered the pennant and traded it for blue that was bordered with a broad band of white. These were raised and stood out starkly now against the blue of Lake Chrys.

The king! Oh—King Etham is dead, cried Abra, and the group broke into a buzz of conversation. Maleen saw Henrin and Merrick dismount and kneel, heads bowed toward the castle. Behind the refugees, the rest of Dranneth’s troops kneeled, then Raff, then Marietta and Maleen followed suit, and the chatter trickled off as, one by one, the rest of the group knelt.

And so, the king is dead, Maleen thought. Jared and Kadrien are orphans like me, forced to figure out how best to lead our people. O Mighty One! How can we?

There was a scrape and rustle ahead as Henrin and Merrick rose. They glanced back to the group. Henrin’s eyes sparkled with tears.

Good people, he said, we are sorry you must come to Chryssion at such a sad hour. We’ve all lost much in these years of war. This is only the latest sorrow. But know that we of Dranneth will take you in in the name of the One Who Comforts and Keeps, and we pray that we will be able to build a new life of peace together. Let us go now to Chryssion.

The group rose and murmured assent, and then they continued toward the plain.

They reached the Keep in the early afternoon. The gate in the battlements was open, but few walked the road that led down into Chryssion. Soldiers stood guard, and white drapes hung over the postern. As their group neared, one of the soldiers came forward. They saw it was Alteron. Henrin dismounted and went to meet him, and they clasped each other on the shoulder.

We’ve watched for you, Alteron said. All is as ready as can be. You may bring our guests to the hall. Cook Rumah has food prepared, and Steward Holden will bring further news.

Henrin nodded and waved the group forward. The gray stone rose high above them, and as Maleen stepped through the shadow of the gate, she remembered stepping out of Ardenay Castle’s gate a year before. She gazed about curiously, wondering how this northern castle differed from Ardenay. It seemed more compact but rose higher. The entry court was wide and austere, laid with sand and surrounded by high walls. Stables opened off to the right, and buildings lined the left walls. They followed Henrin and Merrick across the expanse toward the inner keep. Stableboys dashed out to take the soldiers’ horses, and dogs gamboled about, sniffing cloaks.

The doors of the inner keep stood open, great dark wood bound in black iron. A few thin casements showed in the upper face. It was a grim contrast to the open colonnade one entered first in Ardenay Castle with its reflecting pool and decorative hedges.

The hall they entered bustled with activity. Servants and nobles mingled, making their way to doors off the hall. This Entry Hall rose a few stories above them, and the gray of the outer walls was replaced with warm sandstone that glowed in the light of lanterns spaced along the walls. There was little ornamentation here either.

I never thought it would be so bleak, Maleen murmured to Marietta, who also stared about.

It’s very different, Marietta agreed.A little cramped and dark.

The others in the company drew close, gazing around with wide eyes.

It’s so huge, Abra whispered. And look at the carving on that stair! Danna, have you ever seen anything like it?

A voice hailed Merrick. They looked up to see a man descending the great stairway that hugged one side of the hall. He wore a short black velvet tunic, belted with a band of silver, black breeches, and tall boots. A great silver chain hung around his neck, a blue medallion in its center. His silver hair gleamed in the torch light, and as he neared, they could see the gleam of blue eyes over a long nose.

Welcome, he called gravely over their heads, and others in the hall paused to look toward the ragged group before returning to their business.

Steward Holden, Merrick said, stepping forward with a brief bow.

The steward nodded. Ah, Raff, he said as his eyes fell on the stony form behind Henrin and Merrick. It is good to see you, brother. Sarai will be thankful to know you’ve arrived. And your charges as well. Here his eyes swept over them, stilling on Maleen, the only hooded one in the group. Welcome, he said again. He reached the bottom of the stairs and beckoned them toward the far end of the hall, where another massive set of doors stood open.

They passed through and found themselves near the back and side of another great hall. Its length stretched off to their right. Across from them and down the length of the opposite wall, a series of arched doors stood open to the summer breeze. Through the doors, they glimpsed the green and color of terraced gardens backed by the blue expanse of Lake Chrys. An aromatic breeze wafted through the doors.

Oh, lovely! Maleen exclaimed, stepping into the room, drawn toward the doors. Others from the group murmured in agreement.

Steward Holden coughed to get their attention.

We do hope you will have an opportunity to enjoy the Queen’s Gardens. They are one of our great treasures. For now, though, food for you.

He motioned down the hall where trestle tables were laden with food. Behind these, against the end wall, a dais rose, and above it, a round stained glass window spanned half the back wall. Sunlight shot through the glass, sending jewels of color lancing onto the stone floor and tables and the empty dark wood throne that sat alone on the dais, swathed in white drapery. Like the Entry Hall, this room was also lined in sandstone, but along its length, fluted marble pillars rose to arched ceilings.

Not so grim here, is it? Marietta smiled over at Maleen. Not at all! Maleen said. This was quite as beautiful as Ardenay’s hall.

They reached the tables, and without a word, Raff settled them comfortably at one end, food within easy reach. Servants moved out from the walls, filling cups with cool, clear water. One maid stared unabashedly at Maleen as she poured her water, and opened her mouth to speak, only to be pulled away by an older woman.

Why’s she wearing that hood? the girl hissed to the woman, who glanced back at Maleen with a pained smile.

Hush, Katriona! It’s an Arden thing.

But—

Hush! I’ll explain later.

Maleen sighed but shrugged it off as she lifted her water beneath her veil. Months under the hood had made eating less awkward, but she still wasn’t used to the probing stares.

Raff, meanwhile, had torn off a hunk of bread, grabbed some cheese, and stood off to the side in quiet conference with Merrick, Henrin, and Steward Holden. Maleen turned her attention to the food before her, sighing with pleasure at the light, yeasty bread, chunks of dense, fragrant cheese, and fresh slices of scarlet tomatoes and crisp, green cucumbers. A boned chicken lay between her and Marietta, the air wavering above it. She tucked in happily.

The group ate quietly, absorbed in their food. The silence was broken only by the low murmur of the men’s voices to their side, but gradually hunger was satiated, and conversation welled about the table. Maleen pushed back from her platter with another sigh and looked over at Marietta, whose attention was fixed on Raff and the others. The woman’s fingers absently tore a crust to shreds. Maleen followed her gaze and noticed a fifth man come up behind the others. The men didn’t see him, and he didn’t interrupt them. He was youngish, tall, and wore a rumpled, blue velvet tunic. He ran a hand distractedly through his thick, dark hair, and Maleen could see even from where she sat that his eyes were red-rimmed and tired, his face dark with stubble. At that moment, he glanced over, and his eyes flashed greenly beneath his thick, dark brows. With a clutch in her gut, Maleen recognized him.

Steward Holden caught the movement and turned.Sire! he exclaimed, then composed himself with a quick bow. Every eye at the table swung to the group, and silence dropped like a cloak. Am I needed, Sire? Holden asked, puzzled.

Only here, Holden, Jared said. His baritone voice resonated in the echo of the hall. I’m sorry to interrupt you. It just seemed—here! he said, stepping toward the tables, for a number of the refugees had started to rise. There’s no need. You must be worn out from your journey. Please—sit!

He stood now within a foot of Maleen, and she gaped up at him from under her hood. She hadn’t seen him this close since he was a scrawny teenager, though she remembered his tall and broad-shouldered figure from when she had spied on him from her balcony in Ardenay. His hair still stood at ends, but anyone who ran a hand through his hair as he had been doing would have hair like that. She could tell he was exhausted, and his eyes were red from tears, but he stood straight with his shoulders back, and all who had started to stand sank to their benches.

I know you are in excellent hands, he said,but it felt wrong not to take one moment to greet you. I will meet with you more formally when—when— he faltered and cleared his throat. Until then, know that we of Dranneth honor you and your sacrifice. My brother Kadrien has told me of your bravery in the fight with the slavers and your trek here. You are welcome in the name of the Mighty One.

With this, he bowed to them, then turned on his heel and strode out of the banquet hall, leaving them all with mouths hanging, starting after him. Holden, Raff, and the two soldiers stared after him, too, until Holden collected himself and coughed into his fist.

Yes, well. That was bravely done. He turned to Henrin and Merrick. Raff will assist me from here. Thank you for your report. Go ahead and join your men.

The soldiers bowed their heads to him. Henrin turned to the tables and smiled with a lift of his hand.

We will meet again, my friends, he said, then turned to follow Merrick from the hall.

2

THE END OF A REIGN

Maleen shifted from one foot to the other and glanced nervously at Steward Holden. She wished she were sitting back on the benches, enjoying the sights and scents that came through the arched doors from the garden.

Steward Holden had spent the afternoon meticulously calling the refugees forward one by one and interviewing them. He perched on a stool before a podium, busily recording notes while a squire stood in attendance with ink pot and blotter. At times, Holden called up another from the party at his interviewee’s request, and the murmur of voices droned on and on.

Maleen and Marietta watched as companions from their journey were assigned to tasks and quarters. With each assignment, a servant was beckoned forward to take them where they needed to go. Abra and Danna bid Maleen and Marietta giddy farewells before they were taken off to meet the castle’s head seamstress.

The steward says they have ever so much work to be done before the funeral, Danna said.

And he hinted there will be more work after, Abra said. I think he means the wedding!

From the sorrow to the joy, Maleen commented to Marietta after the women trotted off. In all things, there is work to make tongues wag.

Hush, dear, they mean well, Marietta smiled.

Smith Athram was sent to assist in the castle smithy. Maleen remembered the day he had caught up a thorn branch and leaped into the fight with Dranneth against his captors. He had hands big and hard enough to serve as mallets in and of themselves.

Now, at last, it was their turn, the final two refugees in the Great Hall.

So, Steward Holden said, peering at them sharply over his podium and parchment. Raff tells me that you, young lady, are a noblewoman and daughter of a friend of his. I am sorry for your losses.

Thank you, Maleen answered, not certain if she should say anything else.

And you are called Maid Maleen?

Yes, that is my name.

What do you wish to do, now that you are in Dranneth?

Maleen shifted again. What exactly had Raff revealed about her and her intentions? She glanced toward him, but his gray eye was unreadable, as usual.

Well—I—I do hope to be of use. I like to work in gardens.

But you are a noblewoman, Steward Holden said patiently. Surely you can’t expect us to have you labor as a servant!

Actually, Maleen said, straightening. I would be quite satisfied with that. I haven’t lived as a noble for four years, and I’ve never been more content.

That did cause Raff to blink, she noticed, and his straight mouth bent into a fiercer grimace. Well, too bad for him. She didn’t have any intention of revealing herself or becoming some pampered Fever-victim noble hidden away in a secure corner.

Interesting. Steward Holden glanced over to Raff.Brother, I gathered a slightly different tale from you. I thought she wished to connect with the Arden refugees.

Oh, I do! Maleen broke in before Raff could speak. But not immediately. I’d like to get my bearings first. And I need to stay with Aunt Etta.

Yes—Dame Etta. But she is not really your aunt, no? Wasn’t she your servant?

Marietta bowed her head in assent, but Maleen shook hers. She may have been a servant at one point, but I haven’t considered her less than a dear friend and mentor for ages. I wouldn’t have survived the war without her.

She reached out and gripped Marietta’s hand and was comforted by a return squeeze.

"Well then, Dame Etta. There’s no need to separate you two.

What are your skills?"

I can do anything required of me, sir, Marietta said. I have worked in kitchens often. I have also studied The Writings extensively under various sages. That is something I hope to pursue again, if possible. I’ve heard that the Writings Sage, Shehar, is here. I would be honored to meet him. We had hoped—here she gave Maleen’s hand another squeeze—that Maid Maleen could take her oil of thanks to him and receive her blessing.

She hasn’t received her blessing yet? Steward Holden put down his quill abruptly. When did you have the Fever, Maid?

Last winter, Sir.

You were not able to receive your blessing?

Raff spoke. Finding a qualified sage in Arden right now is like finding a gold coin in a cesspool. The one sage they met was a Verit Sage.

Steward Holden wrinkled his nose in distaste. Maleen wondered if it was the analogy of a cesspool or the reference to a Verit Sage, a leader of a sect broken off from the original religious system of Arden and its surrounding kingdoms.

I knew it was bad, but I had no idea, he said. Yes, we must arrange the offering as soon as possible. Are you sure you won’t see one of our Worship Sages here in the castle Akklesia? We could arrange it today. Sage Shehar is down in the city Akklesia, and with the funeral preparations and following events, it may be days before you can see him.

We have waited this long, Sir, Marietta said. We can wait a little longer. We have our hearts set on going to Sage Shehar.

If Holden was taken aback by a servant woman denying him so firmly, he hid it well. He merely sat for a moment, then nodded and picked up his quill again.

Very well. If this is what you wish, I have positions open in the kitchen and gardens here at the castle. We even have a spare room in the servants’ hall, as two of our staff recently moved to work in the city. Holden scribbled a note, then paused and looked up at them again.Oh—I do wonder. One of your Arden refugees, a noblewoman, resides here in the castle. She helps coordinate correspondence between the crown and the Arden refugees in the city. The other day she mentioned she needed a writing maid, but we had no one to spare. She seems inclined to one from Arden. Would you consider this, Maid Maleen?

Maleen and Marietta looked at one another, and then to Raff, who nodded. It seemed an ideal way to connect with faithful Ardeners.

I would be honored to assist her, Maleen said. You are sure this isn’t beneath you?

Not at all.

Steward Holden smiled in relief. That is well. Lady Bradmore will be most happy.

Lady Bra— Maleen started before clamping her mouth shut.

Yes, Lady Bradmore. You’ve probably heard of her. She and her husband were well-known in many circles. She is a widow now, poor lady. Her husband was lost in the Battle of Ardemore—she lost everything. But she made it here safely over a year ago and has proved a valuable ambassador for Arden. Very efficient, very efficient . . . Well!

Holden jotted some more notes, then put his quill down once more and clapped. A maid with a head of black curls and snapping dark eyes stepped out from the nearest pillar and curtsied prettily.

Maid Nara, please take these women to Errika’s old room. Show them the bathing chambers and see that their clothes are laundered. They’ve had dinner but could probably eat something more. He turned to Raff. Do you wish to see them settled, or can I convince you to join Sarai and the children for dinner?

I will go to Sarai, Raff said. Etta, Maid Maleen, I’ll find you soon. Perhaps I can take you to Sage Shehar.

After the funeral, after the funeral, Holden reminded him.

As you wish, Holden. But I’m impatient to be off. Now that my charges are settled, I need to check on some loose ends in Arden.

Always loose ends for you, aren’t there, Raff? Holden sighed, rolling his parchment and standing. The truth is you don’t know how to rest.

There is no time to rest. There will be time enough for that when I’m dead, Raff scoffed. He bowed stiffly to the women, who curtsied and followed Maid Nara from the hall.

The girl led them out between a set of pillars to a double door, different from the massive one through which they’d entered. They followed her down a hallway, passing intersections with other halls and stairways. Maid Nara noted a few as they went.

That doorway goes into the kitchens; that stair goes to the upper levels; this will eventually take you to the stables

Maleen glanced bemusedly at Marietta, whose lips were pursed in concentration as if trying to memorize all the information. Maleen gave up and just looked about her. They weren’t alone—others passed to and fro, some greeting Maid Nara, almost all giving Maleen a probing stare or double-take. At last, Nara turned into a corridor lined with doors.

Your room is just down here—you’re lucky to have a private one. Not many of us have just two to a room. It has a high window, too—faces out toward a courtyard.

She pushed open the door onto a neat little room lined with the warm sandstone they’d seen throughout the castle. Two low beds stood against opposite walls, and a brazier, small table, and stool filled a corner. The window was high, but a patch of blue sky shone through it. A pile of towels and other cloths rested on the table.

The baths are at the end of this hall, Nara said. There are partitions within it, and the men are separate. Very nice baths. You have towels and fresh garments there. Dame Elnor sees to the laundering—she brought those. I don’t know what you want to do with that, here she pointed at Maleen’s cloak and wrinkled her nose. Are you going to keep wearing it?

Well, it needs to be washed, Maleen said, not sure exactly what Nara meant.I can cover with the other garments, perhaps, until it’s clean and dried?

Oh, so you still want to be covered up? Nara asked.I’d have thought you’d want to get out in the open.

Maleen almost laughed. She would have loved to, but couldn’t.

She had the Fever, Marietta explained.

That’s obvious, Maid Nara laughed shortly, pointing at the Dragon claw crawling out from the edge of Maleen’s sleeve on her left forearm. But why do you want that cloak and veil?

Don’t your marred Fever victims go veiled? Maleen asked, puzzled.

Not here they don’t, Nara said. We get used to them soon enough. Besides, Fever victims are gifted by the Mighty One. They shouldn’t have to hide.

That’s wise, Marietta said, and Maleen remembered the eerie power of Dame Cadria and the clear but strange words of Dame Deberrah in Ladril Town.

She sighed. It is wise, but I don’t think I’m ready to give up this Arden custom.

Suit yourself, Nara shrugged. We’ll fetch you another cloak if you’d like this one cleaned.

Thank you, the women said, and the girl left them.

When the door was firmly shut, Maleen sank onto the nearest bed and dropped her pack before her. Marietta looked down at her.

Well! she said.

O-o-oh, Maleen groaned, putting her fingers to her temples. I have so many thoughts whirling in my head I can barely see straight. But I know that beyond anything, I desperately want a full bath and clean clothes.

Marietta dropped her bag and moved to the door. I’ll go check the baths and see if they’re as private as Maid Nara said.

But you’re as exhausted as me, Maleen protested. I can go look.

Marietta was already opening the door. Like you, I’m dying for a bath. But unlike you, my thoughts are in manageable order. She was gone and back in minutes with the assurance that Nara had spoken truly. On her heels came Maid Nara with a long black cloak and a litany of other instructions as to where they’d report for work.

But not tomorrow, she ended. King Etham’s funeral will be tomorrow, so we all have something of a holiday. You can find food in the kitchen, and feel free to get out to watch the procession.

She whisked out as quickly as she came.

The baths were empty, and Maleen gloried in them. She hadn’t been this clean since Olen and Adria’s home in Arden.

How were they? Were they some of the loose ends Raff said he needed to check on? She hoped so. She missed them dreadfully, and Traana needed to know she and Marietta were safe in Chryssion. The girl had been so worried that she’d brought down a curse on them when she had insisted she and Maleen stay up late that night at Jorelle’s Festival last spring. Traana had wanted to hear Dame Cadria’s prophecies. What she hadn’t counted on was that one would point directly at Maleen, or that as a result Maleen and Marietta would leave more quickly than planned.

And now we’re here. Maleen stared up at the stonework above her. And I’m to be a writing maid to Lady Bradmore, of all people. Thank the Mighty One I have my veil.

Lady Bradmore was the last Arden noble she wanted to reveal herself to. She grimaced, remembering how the officious lady had always tried to mother her.

Once back in their room, Maleen stripped off her cloak and veil and twirled over to where Marietta was drying her hair by the brazier. The table, emptied of their towels and fresh clothes, held a pewter platter with a pitcher of water and cups, along with more sliced cucumbers and tomatoes, bread and cheese.

Maleen ran her fingers through her hair and leaned toward the glowing coals.

Your hair’s a good bit longer, Marietta noted. And you’ve lost some curl, I think.

It’s getting hotter under my hood, too.

Interesting that it’s uncommon for Fever victims to go veiled here. You’ll draw more attention than you planned.

I suppose so, Maleen sighed. But I can’t see a better way. Perhaps once they know I’m a noblewoman they’ll assume I’m mortified by my affliction and my fall from status. It’s a kind of mourning, I suppose.

Is that the role you want to present?

Maleen paused her hair-drying. I hadn’t thought about a role. But that would be one I could play well. Maybe I’ll dredge up some of my pampered princess escapades.

I’d like to see that, Marietta grinned. I wonder how much of that princess still lingers.

Maleen smiled and went on drying her hair. After a pause, Marietta spoke again:

So, a writing maid for Lady Bradmore . . .

Oh, Marietta! I can hardly stand the thought. She was always so overwhelming, always watching me like a hawk to be sure I behaved myself. I was thankful she preferred to stay in Ardemore year-round so I only had to bear her in the summer.

I’m sure she meant well.

Of course she meant well, Maleen groaned. And I suppose I have her to thank for preventing Melanor from doing more than toying with my heart and kissing my hand.

"Those are important things to be thankful