The Rose Among Thorns: The Daughters of Linolae Book 2

Copyright © 2013 Gina M. Bovyn.

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Scripture taken from the King James Version of the Bible.

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ISBN: 978-1-4497-9268-8 (sc)

ISBN: 978-1-4497-9267-1 (hc)

ISBN: 978-1-4497-9269-5 (e)

Library of Congress Control Number: 2013907312

WestBow Press rev. date: 04/29/2013

Contents

Day One

Prologue

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Day Two

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Day Three

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Chapter 23

Chapter 24

Chapter 25

Chapter 26

Chapter 27

Chapter 28

Day Four

Chapter 29

About the Author

Also by Gina Bovyn

Lady White

To my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and to every young woman who is waiting on God for her husband.

Twenty years have gone by since Alina aer Anya was crowned queen of Linolae, the greatest kingdom in the Realms of Higher Law. The days of her reign were days of peace. But while happiness spread in the hearts of men and the kingdom prospered more than ever afore, the artists of darkness were conniving. Evil was brewing in the air, deceiving the minds of kings once again and gaining ground in the Realms. A plan had been formed. Yet still Linolae stood strong, unwavering in its fight against the Evil One. They refused to bow. The great I AM remained their High King.

This is the tale of the First Great Battle and of the courage of the Linolaen women. In this second tribulation, they fought this evil with all they knew.

These are the diaries of the daughters of Linolae.

Day One

It is the first day of the summer season, and I believe now to be the best time to begin this journal, gifted to me on the eve of Christdea by my mother along with the parchments of her own tale, which she had never afore related to me and which came to my knowledge only a year ago. Those I began to read as soon as she handed the small bundle to me, wanting so badly to know all of the one woman I love so dearly. Always I knew my mother was different from most women, wearing more often than gowns her tunic and breeches, never braiding her long auburn hair, and always having a sword hanging from her hip. But never would I have fathomed what she was afore her life in Linolae began. A murderer, an assassin for hire. When her past first came to my foreknowledge, I’m ashamed to admit that I was resentful toward her for never giving me the slightest hint of her monstrous past, and mayhap I was a mite fearful of what she was capable of—though, if it accounts for anything, her band never were killers of maidens or babes. But now, after much hardship has befallen, I have come to realize the reason she kept her past from me. Love. She wanted to keep from me the acts she committed because she is no longer the villain who committed them. I am so very thankful to God that He has changed her heart and molded her into the woman I now cherish.

My father, Liridon, who reigns at her side, was also a member of Mother’s band those many years ago, but he’s come to know Christ as well and has departed from that sinful past. Knowing their tales explains to me why their love is so strong, why not even the one man who could have torn their world apart could sway them from each other or the God Who brought them together.

This leather-bound book I have opened only today, nearly twelve fortnights after I was given it. Afore, I think, I wouldn’t have had much to write of my life, but after this last year, all has changed. Allies have been traitorous, families have been bound, war has caused fearless ones to fall down in terror, yet love has triumphed over all. I have grown much as heir to Linolae and as a woman of God. After these last days, the least I can do is follow in my mother’s footsteps and make account of these times for my children to come and theirs thereafter.

My name is Arwynnia aer Alina, daughter of Alina aer Anya, queen of Linolae, the most powerful kingdom these lands have ever known, and by God’s grace, ever will.

Prologue

Autumn, Sixteen Years Ago

Catch me if you can, Grandmamma! I yelled behind my shoulder as I raced across the stone pavement along the bridge. Asala ran after me, her skirts in hand and a big smile widening on her face. It was early in the autumn season, but already the lovely inner warmth that comes from the nearness of the holy days had started to rise within me. I was four summers old and just beginning to learn how to live.

Slow down, my love! Asala called. I skidded to a halt, turning to plead my cause.

But what of Mama? I said with a pout. Asala dropped her skirts, her chest heaving, and began to gently brush the fabric of her gown against her middle. She narrowed her eyes at an older man gaping at her appearance. It wasn’t every day you saw the former queen of Linolae running through the streets with her undergarments showing. The man averted his gaze and started away, whistling softly to himself, but not afore his teeth flashed in an amused grin.

Oh, sweet, she said to me, a crease forming between her eyes at my sorrowful expression. She ambled toward me, wringing her hands in front of her as she came. Mama will be just fine. We left her in good hands. Lydia has aided in birthing many a child, including you, little one. With that she pinched my cheek, making me giggle, and gently grabbed my hand. She rubbed her smooth thumb against my own, comforting me with the small gesture. Besides, she continued as we entered through the castle doors, Alina is a very strong lass. And she has done this before.

I bit my lip and nodded, the worry in me beginning to ebb.

But what of you, my sweet? Are you looking forward to having a little sister to take care of?

The breath caught in me.

Are you certain it will be a lass, Grandmamma? I asked in a whisper; it was what I hoped. Asala smiled softly and dipped her head.

Oh, yes, she answered. I gazed up at her in wonder. She had a way about her, a mysteriousness that I could never fathom. She was always so peaceful and understanding. Later in life she explained it to me, saying she was a woman very close to God and in tune with His voice.

Will it be the same, Grandmamma? I inquired suddenly. She looked down at me in confusion.

What, my dear?

Will you love me less when my sister is born? Her features screwed up in shock.

Oh, nay! she declared vehemently, abruptly falling to her knees before me with eyes filled with dismay. You are my little princess, she breathed, cupping my face in her hands and gazing at me with all the love she held. Aye, this child as well will be my little princess, but you will always be my first. Forget that not, my precious dove.

I nodded, relief swelling my heart. She pressed a soft kiss to my cheek afore rising to her feet. In the next moment a horrible scream echoed in the hall. I jumped and tried to hide myself in her skirts.

All is well, Arwynnia, Asala cooed, tousling my auburn hair. It’s only time for your sister to arrive. We hurried to the birthing chamber, where we had left my mother a few hours afore. Papa stood in front of the door with his forehead against the rough wood.

Liridon? Asala whispered. Papa turned at her voice, and another shriek tore through the air. I could see the tension in my father’s stance.

It must be anon, he mumbled, raking his hand through his hair. The time past, she began to scream only just afore our Winnie made herself known.

Asala nodded encouragingly.

Aye, lad, she said. It shouldn’t be much longer.

Papa strode over to where we stood and lifted me in his strong arms.

And how is my little lass? he asked, tucking me against him. I put my arm around his shoulders and with the other hand touched his unshaven cheek.

I be all right, Papa, I assured him, feeling like a very little lass in my father’s strong embrace. He smiled, though it didn’t reach his brown eyes, and glanced worriedly at the door when a loud moan came through.

Mama will be just fine, little love, he muttered, but it seemed the words were more for his encouragement than mine. We waited there in silence for a few moments more when suddenly the chamber door flew open and a young maid came barreling out. Following after her was the loud cry of an infant.

It’s a lass, my lord! the maid cried. In an instant Papa was striding briskly through the door. I held on to him with all my might, suddenly fearful to enter the chamber that had been forbidden to me only moments ago. The room was stifling, so hot I could barely catch a breath, and the air held an unpleasant odor. Earthenware bowls filled with water were set haphazardly on the stone floor; maids were just beginning to pick them up. My eyes flitted from place to place, wanting to see everything at once. But then I heard a noise and realized the chamber had grown unusually quiet except for that squeak. It reminded me of the kittens I had found in the stables during the summer season. My gaze finally rested on the bed where my mother lay, soaked in perspiration and exhausted, cradling my little sister in her arms.

Meet your daughter, Papa, Mama said to my father. The little thing lifted her arms to the ceiling, once again emitting the tiny noise. I felt Papa’s chuckle deep in his chest.

Our little Avelina, he replied. I stared at the scrunched-up bundle writhing in my mother’s arms. She was the most beautiful thing I had ever laid eyes on, with a tiny button nose, long dark lashes resting on chubby, pink cheeks, and a shock of dark silky hair atop her head. A love I couldn’t name sprang quickly into my heart. It was then that I first realized my duty in life: the charge to protect. First my babe of a sister, and then my kingdom.

Prepare thyself for battle, my warrior lass, for men alone fight you not.

Gird thyself with shield and sword; don thine armor in heavenly light,

The Hands of God are upon thee.

Eyes fastened on His Majesty,

Glorify the King of kings,

His victory is yours.

CHAPTER 1

New Year’s Day, One Year Ago

Winnie! Avelina called out as she waddled into my embrace. She was an amusing sight with her petite form and enormous bulging middle, but she was beautiful as only a woman with child can be. Her cheeks were rosy; her hazel eyes alight with excitement. I envied my sister’s coloring, always catching the eyes of the lads. She had taken our father’s olive skin and dark hair, whereas I had our mother’s fairness. But that day, only love could fill my heart. I laughed as she almost toppled over. Oh, I have missed you so! she squealed into my neck.

And I you, little one, I whispered. We had only just arrived in the kingdom of Kenedor, where not even a year afore Lina had wed. Over her shoulder, I smiled at Leoni and Fiona as they walked over the wooden drawbridge followed closely by Aaron, their son, my sister’s young husband. Fiona and Mother fell into each other’s arms while Father and Leoni shared a manly embrace.

I pulled away from Avelina and placed my hands on her protruding belly. She had married Aaron only ten months before, and already she would be bringing their first child into the world. It was only her sixteenth winter.

Lord, I thought to myself, help me not to begrudge my sister’s happiness and family.

How do you fare, Lina? I asked. My sister nearly glowed with happiness as she looked down at her stomach, gently smoothing her hands over the blue velvet fabric taut against her skin. The gesture reminded me of our dear Grandmamma. A pang entered my heart at her memory.

I think I have never been so happy, Lina answered softly, her blissful voice bringing me back to the present. Every time I feel our baby move within me, I can’t help the tears of gratitude to our Lord that escape me.

Putting my fingers to her chin, I lifted her gaze to mine and said, You deserve all this and more, dear sister. Every word was meant with my entire being. Her big eyes filled with tears, brimming over her long dark lashes. She clamped her lips together to keep them from wobbling.

I’m just so glad the three of you could come to Kenedor. I’m overjoyed, but still I feel a bit fearful of the birth. I need you and Mother at my side.

I took her hand and planted it in the crook of my elbow, leading her to our family.

Did you really believe Mama would let anything stop her from witnessing the birth of her first grandchild? I asked in her ear. She would have taken the reins of the carriage horses and driven them over a mob if she’d had to. Lina put her slender hand over her mouth to cover her giggles.

And what exactly is so amusing, my little iníon? Father asked as he pulled Lina away from me and crushed her in a hug.

We were just picturing Mama trampling anyone who hindered her arrival here, I explained.

He threw his head back and laughed.

Aye, I could imagine that one, he said, glancing over at his wife with a loving gaze.

As if you wouldn’t do the same, my love, Mama commented. Father bowed his head with a chuckle. He put his arms around Lina and me and escorted us over to the tiny group.

Aye, dear wife. The lad who kept me from my little one’s birthing would be sorry indeed.

I would fear greatly for that lad, Leoni drawled with a playful grin. The three of them shared a knowing look that I couldn’t quite interpret, but it made my curiosity grow.

Papa wouldn’t hurt anyone, Lina said, nudging our father in the ribs. He’s much too good. I’ve never even seen him raise his voice to the guards.

Father cast his eyes to the ground while Mama looked guiltily away. Leoni brought a fist up to his mouth and cleared his throat as Fiona’s eyes moved from her husband to my parents in confusion.

Aye, little one, Papa said softly. Not anymore at least. He took Mama’s hand and brought it to his mouth in a tender kiss. Her lips pursed, and her eyes were regretful. Tension hung all around us.

Well, should we go inside? Leoni finally asked, gesturing toward the open gate. It’s a bit frigid out here.

Oh my, let’s, Fiona agreed. She rubbed her hands together and breathed on them, stressing her assent. My hands and feet are becoming numb with this chill. Leoni motioned for the men to bring our carriage and horses to the stables, then led us over the drawbridge, through the arched entryway, and onto the covered pathway that lined the perimeter of the giant courtyard. He lifted his arm to the men in the gatehouse.

Lower the gate! one man called out. A lad loosened the chain on the windlass, and the portcullis came crashing to the ground while the grinding of the rising drawbridge echoed across the square. I looked curiously at Papa behind me, but he only shrugged his shoulders. It wasn’t so late in the day that the gates should be closed, and I wondered at Leoni’s command.

We passed the armory and guards’ barracks, the kitchens, which carried a heavenly aroma out to us, and the blacksmith, whose hammering of steel sounded throughout the fortress. A few maidens scurried by carrying vessels of sloshing liquid, ducking their heads as they glanced sheepishly through the intricately carved pillars that held the roof over our heads at the young men who trained with their weapons out on the lightly snow-covered courtyard. A lad called out, and behind me I heard one of the maidens answer with a giggle. The immaturity of young love brought a smile to my face.

Mayhap you could show those rogues how to really use a sword, eh? Papa said as he came up beside me. My lips curled in an impish smile.

Wouldn’t they be a mite disheartened to be beaten by a maiden?

He chuckled. Aye, mayhap they’d be a bit angry too. But that’s the fun of it, love. Besides, someday these men are going to be your allies. How better to earn their respect than to show them what you are capable of?

I might just take your suggestion, Father. If anything the amusement of a duel would at the least take my thoughts off the anxiousness crushing my chest. Though I knew not if the nerves were for my sister or the peculiar feeling of dread that hovered in the air.

Papa patted my head, satisfied. I’ll tell the lads later they’ll be having a surprise waiting for them afore dawn.

What’s that I hear, Liridon? Leoni called over his shoulder.

Nothing, lad, Papa said with a wink to me. Only that my daughter is going to shame your entire guard.

Is that so? Leoni’s voice was amused. If I were a betting man, I’d wager two gold coins on my guard as victor.

Papa snorted. And I’d put ten on my daughter.

Oh shut it, you two, Mama chided from behind us. The both of you know neither one is a gambler, so why even waste the time acting like one? Up at the very front of our group, Lina repressed a snort of laughter.

We’re only just jesting, Leoni said defensively.

Aye, Papa seconded, his claim a bit less persuasive. Though I expect to see his majesty on the sidelines on the morrow. I want him to believe me when I announce Winnie as champion. Leoni slowed to step beside Papa and patted him on the back.

I’ll be waiting, my friend, he drawled.

Our husbands are half-wits, Mama whispered to Fiona.

I heard that, wife. The two women shared in laughter

We came to the entrance for the king’s apartments, and Leoni pushed open the door. The first chamber we saw was the grand hall. Five oak tables stood in the center, and the stone fireplace took nearly half of the wall opposite the door. Hefty dark wooden beams adorned the cathedral ceiling, while paintings of battles decorated the walls. We passed through this chamber down a tiny corridor, passing the library and a study on our way to the guest apartments.

As we walked, I watched my sister with her husband. Aaron was my sister’s senior by a year. He was tall in stature, like his father, with broad shoulders and a narrow waist. His coloring was as his mother’s, with pale blond hair worn to his shoulders, blue eyes, and fair skin. He was a handsome lad, though a mite quiet, and their mutual beauties made the young couple seem all the more made for each other. As I studied them, Aaron leaned in close to Avelina, whispering something in her ear as he wrapped his arm about her waist and pulled her against him. She looked up at him with her heart in her eyes and gave him a quick peck on the lips.

With a hasty jerk of my head, I tore my gaze away from them, nearly tripping over the sudden surge of envy that coursed through me. Taking a deep breath, I prayed, Lord, give me your strength to overcome my fleshy emotions and desires. Help me to be content should wedded bliss not come to me.

When the envy ebbed, I looked up and caught Papa staring at me with heartsore eyes. Shame toward my feelings made me glance away. He cupped my upper arm with his hand and brought me to his side, pressing a loving kiss on the top of my head.

Here we are! Lina suddenly exclaimed. We had arrived at our chambers.

The maids have tidied up the rooms, the linens are changed, and everything you need should be at hand’s reach, Fiona said, giving Mama a hug. The three of you rest awhile, and I’ll have Kinia announce when the evening meal is served.

Lina flung herself in my arms.

I will see you anon, dear sister, she said. Rest well.

The lot of them left us alone, and we dragged our weary feet into the chamber. We had traveled a few days short of a fortnight without stopping at an inn, wanting to arrive in time for the baby’s birthing, and the thought of a soft, comfortable bed nearly made me swoon. Papa fell into a chair by the hearth while Mama went over to a silver tray covered with fruit and popped a grape into her mouth.

Something’s amiss, my little Alina, Papa said, leaning his head against the chair back and closing his eyes.

Aye, I know. They never were ones to hide their emotions, and it’s easy to see the tension they feel.

What do you mean? I asked, lying down on the fur-covered bed. My own sleeping quarters were in the adjoining chamber. They glanced quickly at each other.

I know not yet, Mama said carefully. Though I have an idea.

I exhaled loudly. For months, there had been rumors that a madman had raised an army of men to overtake the kingdoms. The threat hovered around us everywhere we went.

They are rumors, I stressed, not really believing the words myself. But it was a hope I carried nonetheless. My existence had held no war, no bloodshed, and no threats. I was trained in weaponry, but never had I ended a man’s life, and the thought of walking a field, drenched with my kinsmen’s blood, watching the life drain out of a man I had never met by my own hand, sickened me. But as heir to the throne, I knew I would have no other choice but to stand up to my duties.

Mama strode over to where I was and sat down beside me.

Combing my hair with her long, slender fingers, she said, You have nothing to fear, sweet. God is with us. He will never leave us nor forsake us. The enemy may rise up against us one way, but he will flee from us seven ways.

Aye, Papa said softly. These kingdoms will be at peace once more, sweet love, afore your coronation. You will not have the worry of bloodshed during your reign.

I closed my eyes, taking comfort in the Scriptures my mother quoted, my father’s assuring words, and the tender caress of my mother afore I drifted off to sleep.

I was dreaming, I knew, though the scene in front of me seemed more real by the moment. I was standing on Kenedor’s drawbridge, looking out at the fields around the kingdom. They were swarming with men and horses, thousands of them. I listened to the cries of pain, horses’ neighs, and terrified shrieks. Swords clashed, ringing loud in the air. The coppery odor of blood hovered around me; it seemed a river of the dark red fluid flowed through the lush grass. The normally bright sky was overcome by black, roiling clouds. An arrow whizzed past me to my left, and a shriek pierced through my soul. I looked up to see a lad wearing the attire of a guard fall into the ditch filled with upright, pointed wooden stakes. He landed faceup, blood spewing from his mouth as a stake protruded from his belly. Three more lads followed in his wake. Terror squeezed my chest and bile rose up my throat as I realized all the men who were fallen were Kenedor’s.

Lord, why have you forsaken us? I whispered, staring out across the land. There was no answer. A man walked briskly toward me, and I took a stumbling step back. He was shrouded in shadow and his face couldn’t be seen.

Winnie, he said, his voice a raspy baritone. His sword dripped blood as he raised it. I put my arms over my face and opened my mouth to scream.

CHAPTER 2

Winnie! Papa said as he shook me awake. I forced my eyes open. My gaze flickered around the familiar chamber, finally landing on my father’s face.

It was only a dream, sweet, he whispered, gently caressing my cheek.

My chest was heaving, my breaths coming in short gasps. Drops of sweat fell from my brow. I bobbed my head and pushed myself up to sit. I’m all right, I wheezed, feeling the racing heartbeat in my neck.

Would you like to speak about it? Mama asked, closing the slightly ajar door and coming closer. I shook my head.

It was only a childish nightmare.

They shared a concerned look.

The evening meal is ready, Papa commented. But we can go down in a bit if you would rather wait.

I chuckled at my parents’ protectiveness.

Nay, Papa, I said, smoothing down his gray-streaked, dark brown hair that always insisted on standing on end. I’m fine. You and Mama go ahead. I’ll be along anon.

He dipped his head, rising from his kneeling position.

Come, little Alina, he said to Mama. Let us leave our little one to her thoughts. My mother put her hand through his arm, looking worriedly over her shoulder at me.

I’ll be along shortly, Mama, I assured her. She reluctantly left the chamber with him.

When they were gone, I rested my head in my hands, still hearing those bloodcurdling cries. Fear thou not, I whispered to myself, for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness. As I inhaled a deep, steadying breath, the comfort and peace of God settled over me.

I stood and went over to the earthenware basin set on top of the small table next to the bed and splashed a bit of water on my face and neck. The water dripped methodically back into the bowl as I stared back at my weary likeness. A few moments of quiet musing went by before I grabbed a soft towel lying next to the crockery, gently dabbed at my face, and heard my empty stomach rumble its displeasure. All reflection was forgotten. Throwing the towel back on the table, I hurried to the dining chamber afore the meat could lose its warmth.

The room was much like the grand hall, only smaller in size, and filled with the savory aroma of roasted poultry and root vegetables. One table stood in the center of the chamber with twelve chairs surrounding it. Leoni was seated at the head with Fiona on his right. Aaron sat on his left, Lina beside him. Mother had seated herself on Fiona’s right, Father beside her. The small group was already dining when I entered, the only sound the clinking of cutlery against dishes.

Winnie! Lina called when she noticed me standing in the doorway. Her excited greeting echoed loudly in the chamber. Everyone turned to stare at me. I felt my face grow the color of scarlet.

Clearing my throat I said, Forgive me for not…

It’s all right, dear, Fiona interrupted. Alina explained to us that you were having a little rest. I flashed a grateful grin to my mother for not giving voice about my foolish dream.

Sit beside me, Winnie, Lina pleaded, pointing to the seat on her left. I cringed at the scrape of the chair leg on the stone floor in the unusually quiet room, yet no one seemed to pay it much heed. When I sunk down, Lina clasped my hand and giggled. I squeezed hers in return. She might have been a married woman with a babe on the way, but always would she seem a little one to me.

I turned my attention to the delectable aromas wafting to my nose. On the table were trays and trays bedecked with food. A golden brown swan lay proudly in the center, steaming hunks of bread at its side along with a vessel of wine for sopping. Chicken and codfish were also set out alongside it. Fruits and vegetables overflowed a few silver platters. Sugared fruit and dainties covered the remaining dishes.

You must have the chicken, Winnie, Lina said as she hefted a huge chunk onto my plate. It’s the most delicious bird you’ll ever taste. I smiled as I dumped a few spoonfuls of carrots and potatoes next to the juicy chicken breast, then filled my mug with wine.

We mustn’t let Kilda hear you say that, I commented, speaking of Linolae Castle’s cook as I took a bite. The poor woman’s heart would shatter. Lina laughed, shaking her head at my remark, no matter how truthful it was. The woman took great pride in her abilities in the kitchens, though a bit of competition may be had with the cook of Kenedor.

After a moment, my father’s arm caught my attention as he stole three sugared strawberries from the sweet tray. Mama nudged him in the ribs, and he looked innocently over at her with his cheek filled with the fruity dessert. She narrowed her eyes at him, and he grinned afore putting the other two berries back on the platter.

Amiable discourse finally began to echo about the chamber. I listened, hardly participating in the conversation, and thought on the woman who would have been sitting on my left had she been with us still.

Asala was the only grandmother I ever knew. She was queen of Linolae until handing the crown to my mother. Often she would travel to Kenedor to be with Leoni, her son, but mostly she lived in Linolae with us. She was a kind, gentle woman who loved everyone in her path and trusted God with her entire being. She had passed over three years afore, but still the hurt of the loss caused an ache in my heart. I loved her so. Leoni resembled her much in looks, which must have been what brought her to my mind’s eye, with his long dark hair streaked at the temples with silver and blue eyes surrounded by olive skin. I heard Papa’s deep chuckle and glanced over at my father. In that moment I realized how different the king of Kenedor was compared with my father. Leoni sat up straight in his seat, looking a bit uncomfortable and pompous really, his long hair tied back with a thong, clasping loosely his silverware, his attire the best his kingdom’s wealth had to offer; whereas Father looked at ease in his chair, his short hair in disarray, wearing an almost ragged shirt and breeches. Spurred on by these variances, I quickly perused their better halves: Fiona adorned in her silken gown, her long blonde hair braided in a crown wrapped round her head, seeming stiff as she carefully cut a carrot into bite-size pieces; my mother dressed much like my father, her long auburn hair flowing down her back, also slicing a carrot but not in pieces nearly so tiny.

I found myself pondering. Granted, we had been traveling for days, and the most comfortable attire for travel was a worn tunic and breeches. I myself was wearing just that, and preferred it over the average noble’s attire. But my parents, the queen and king of Linolae, nearly always dressed as now. Mayhap they wanted not to brag in how wealthy Linolae was. Yet even still, sitting at that table, it almost seemed as if they had been born in an entirely different world.

I was surprised not to see Miambi or Dorad with you, Leoni said, interrupting my thoughts.

Aye, we had hoped they would accompany us, but Miambi decided to stay in Linolae. Suri is also in childbed, due any day now, Mama explained. Fiona gave a little shriek of delight.

And Dorad thought it would be more beneficial to Linolae if he were to stay and keep watch with the guard, Papa finished. Leoni nodded as he chewed slowly on his swan meat.

We would have arrived here sooner, Mama suddenly said, except for all the men we had with us, along with the carriage. I would have preferred it to have just been Liridon, Winnie, and myself journeying on horse, but under the circumstances…

The comment was a leading one. It was obvious she wished to discuss the matter.

Of course, Fiona abruptly muttered. ’Twould have been terrible had you been attacked on the road without any protection.

Aye, Papa growled, glancing at Mama. Her lips had pursed in offense at Fiona’s statement.

Leoni chuckled.

I’m sure the three of you would have been able to defeat any foe who came your way, he stated. But I think it wiser you traveled with a guard, Alina.

Fiona’s eyes darted from