I own nothing.
Fief Mindelan
Illane of Mindelan sat in her study going over the account books. The room was decorated in a balanced mix of Yamai and Tortallan styles. Her royal blue gown set off her black hair perfectly. A cup of green tea rested beside her arm cooling. A knock on the wooden door caused her to look up from her work.
"Enter," she called in her musical voice. A young maid pushed open the door. She bowed to her mistress and came forward.
"Pardon me ma'am, but a courier just arrived with this," she spoke handing over a sealed letter, "He said it was rather urgent and that he will wait for a return message should you need one sent."
Illane raised an eyebrow and broke the wax seal. Her eyes scanned the document, her face paling the further she read. She jumped up and rushed from the room, her maid calling after her.
"Piers! Anders!" she yelled bursting into their meeting with the head farmer. Baron Piers stood quickly.
"Illane, my love, what…"
"It's Kel, she's been badly wounded."
"What?" Taking the letter he scanned over its contents while Anders read over his shoulder. He turned to the farmer. "I am sorry, but this matter will have to wait until we return."
The farmer bowed his head respectfully. "I shall alert the hostler and have him prepare the carriage if that is your wish." At Piers' nod he left. Kel's parents embraced, Illane sobbing into her husband's shoulder.
"Anders, tell the rest of the family what has happened and write a letter to Corus, we will be leaving in two bells time."