Author's Note: Again, apologies for the delay in getting this chapter posted. It's a long one, just as a warning. Also, hope there wasn't too much confusion about the new chapter. I posted a "Prologue", and I guess anyone getting notifications would have been sent to this chapter (now 33), since I re-ordered the list to put the Prologue where it belonged. Sorry!

1/Terreille

"Can we take a break for just a few minutes?" Bethaeny asked to no one in particular. Basically, to anyone who would answer. "I could use some time to let all of this settle in before we move onto anything new."

Prince Willem was the one to champion her cause. He smiled at her from his side of the table, and leaned back in his chair.

"Two straight days is a lot to take in," he admitted. "Vaerill- what do you think? Do we have time for a short reprieve?"

Bethaeny tried to look hopeful, but she knew Lady Claudia's Master of the Guard had taken their request for tactical help very seriously. He brought together a few other members of the Court, and spent the past few days and countless hours educating them on the ins and outs of taking over a territory.

Not that she wasn't grateful for their help. Since the audience with the Queen, Bethaeny had learned more than she ever expected to about what they'd been doing wrong in Hayll. Or at least why they hadn't done all that well. Listening to Prince Vaerill, she wasn't surprised that their group hadn't accomplished much in three months. Armed with his experience and skills, Bethaeny hoped to do much better when they got back.

But right now, all she wanted was a few minutes' peace to settle her thoughts.

"I suppose we could spare twenty minutes or so," he admitted at last. Bethaeny was so happy she could have danced.

"Excellent," Willem beamed. "There you go, Lady Bethaeny. Will that do?"

"Sure will. What say we take a walk outside and get out of this room for a while," she suggested to Ettia. "The side garden is pretty in the afternoon.

"It's rather hot out there," her cousin hedged.

"Oh come on. In a few days we'll be going back to Draega where the closest thing we have to a garden is that overgrown mess at the edge of Meredith's estate."

"Go if you want, but I'm staying here."

Bethaeny chewed on her lip in indecision. She wanted to see the gardens, but didn't want to snub Ettia. Why'd she have to be such a grouch lately? Her cousin had done little more than attend the meetings and stare off into space. And if anyone did try to include her in the discussions, she got all snippy. The only one who seemed able to prod her out of that mood was Prince Willem, but even that had been a challenge today.

"But Ettia…"

"I mean it, Bethaeny. I'm fine right where I am."

She looked to Willem for help, but he shook his head. So much for that idea. With a shrug, she decided she might as well go and enjoy herself. There was nothing she could do for her cousin.

"If that's what you want, I suppose I'll see you when I get back."

"Lord Shaede, would you please escort Lady Bethaeny to the gardens?"

She spun around again, shaking her head at Willem.

"Oh that's not necessary. There's no need to be a bother if I'm just going…"

"No bother at all, Lady," Lord Shaede insisted as he sprang to his feet. Before she could even protest, he'd stuck out his arm and whisked her out of the room.

They were halfway down the hall before she gathered her wits again, sliding to a stop. Shaede stopped, too, and turned to see what kept her. Bethaeny tried appealing to his sense of reason.

"I really can take care of myself, you know. You don't have to watch over me on a simple walk."

"It's Prince Willem's duty to make sure you and Lady Ettia are safe here in Amdarh," he pointed out.

"It's a walk in a garden," she countered with a roll of her eyes. "I'm not even leaving the grounds of the Queen's Residence."

"Give him a break. This is the first time he's been given such an important assignment by the Queen and he's a little nervous."

"Oh. Well, I guess I can understand it, then."

They resumed walking for a short while before Bethaeny thought to comment again.

"If he's that nervous, I'm surprised he sent you instead of coming along himself."

Lord Shaede cleared his throat and mumbled something she couldn't make out. She frowned slightly and tilted her head to see him better.

"Beg your pardon?"

"I said that he would have if he didn't know I wanted to go."

"You wanted to look at gardens?"

He pushed open the gate leading out into the path and let her pass through. Bethaeny stopped, noticing the flush rising in his face. Lord Shaede ran a hand through his hair and coughed, looking uncomfortable. Finally, he managed to answer.

"I wanted to go with you."

As the meaning of those words sunk in, Bethaeny felt an answering blush across her cheeks. Suddenly, it was much warmer in the noonday sun. Much too warm.

"Me?" she squeaked in disbelief. "Why me?"

"Why not you?"

"But I'm Hayllian, and was part of Meredith's court and-"

"Proved yourself brave enough to find a better life for not only yourself, but for other Hayllians as well," he interrupted her. "Not to mention chose to put yourself at risk to stand against a tyrant regime."

"Well, maybe, but I…"

"Light up a room with your positive and funny personality," he continued. "Lady Bethaeny, you're one of the finest witches I've ever known."

"I…don't know what to say," she admitted after several minutes. "I mean, I had no idea."

"It's all right. Don't say anything if you don't want to. I know that you're going back to Hayll and probably wouldn't think much of starting anything even if you were interested. There was always a good chance you weren't, but that's okay, too."

The poor Warlord had begun to babble. Bethaeny had never seen or heard of anything like this before. It was rather endearing, but then Shaede started to pull away, as if maybe he'd done something wrong. On impulse, she did the only thing that came to mind that might settle his doubts.

She kissed him.

At first, she felt nothing beyond his shock and disbelief. Now she worried that maybe she'd made a mistake. But when Bethaeny tried to pull back, Shaede wrapped his arms around her. Instantly, the kiss flared between them, sending a shock wave of sensation through her body. No other kiss before had affected her in this way, and Bethaeny never wanted it to end.

He broke the kiss, though. She became aware of it by degrees. His fingers were tangled in her hair, while hers had looped up around his neck. Blood rushed in her ears to block out the sounds of the warm afternoon. Bethaeny drew a deep breath and tried to clear her head, feeling a little wobbly.

"That was, um…really nice," she whispered dreamily.

"Better than nice, if you ask me," he teased, voice low.

They were still pressed up against one another, and Bethaeny couldn't help noticing that Shaede was fully aroused. Then again, so was she. Her whole body tingled and ached, letting her know how far her control had slipped. Just from one kiss.

Mother Night.

Bethaeny nearly suggested that they abandon the walk, but tried to hold on to some dignity. After all, just because he'd kissed her and got excited didn't mean he wanted to go any further. And she definitely didn't want to make him feel like he had to. Then again, she ought to say something…but what?

"I would be tempted to do more, Bethaeny," he said regretfully. "But there are some things I don't like rushing, and twenty minutes isn't enough time for what I'd have in mind."

Oh boy. Bethaeny's insides quivered at the mental images his words evoked. She tried several times to answer before having any success.

"W-what did you have in mind?"

"Well I'd tell you, but I wouldn't want to spoil the surprise."

Her brain stuttered and threatened to stop working.

"Oh…right…the surprise."

"I could show you," Shaede offered. "If you were interested in letting me come to you tonight instead."

Tonight. He wanted to be with her tonight. She'd waited a lifetime to know what that was like. How was she going to make him understand? Bethaeny doubted she could, not really all that gifted with words. But she could at least give him an answer.

"I'll be more than interested. Even if Prince Vaerill talks all evening."

"Well then, perhaps we should get back? The sooner he's done, the sooner we can finish what we started."

Bethaeny smiled in agreement as Shaede pulled her back along the path to the Residence. She didn't even care that she hadn't seen any of the garden. All she could concentrate on was her hand in his, and the happiness she was feeling. Nothing could get her down today. Not after this. And even more to come later.

2/Terreille

It was late, but no one seemed inclined to leave the table. Gwynn tried to ignore the grumble in her stomach, knowing that they hadn't eaten since breakfast. From what she could tell, it was mid-afternoon. Maybe she should send to the kitchen for a snack…

"So we have no idea when Raenel will be back?" Nareth repeated.

"My Lady Tarine said she expected at least a month before she'd be back in Draega," their guest confirmed.

"Why would she have left the city just when things were going so wrong?"

"We've been asking the same thing, too, and are just as puzzled."

Murmurs travelled around the room. Gwynn could hear their dismay at Lord Isaac's message. When he'd arrived this morning, her First Circle had been excited that Queen Tarine had responded to the message she'd sent. They'd hoped for good news- namely that Raenel was staying in Tarine's district and had a plan against Meredith. As the morning wore on, it became evident that was not the case.

"Maybe we could reach her," Ellard suggested. "Did Lady Tarine know what part of Terreille Raenel was going to next?"

Lord Isaac shook his head regretfully.

"We're not even sure she's in Terreille."

"Say again," Gwynn asked in surprise. "Where could she have gone, then?"

"Kaeleer, I suspect."

"Kaeleer!" several voices exclaimed in hushed whispers.

Gwynn commanded silence for Lord Isaac continue.

"When she left, the Lady was set on returning Prince DeSade to his family. My Queen couldn't quite ask where that family lived, but from some of the answers she did get, the impression was that they didn't live in Hayll or Dhemlan Terreille."

The world spun and dipped as Gwynn processed the Warlord's reply. That first part made her stumble for certain. Raenel hadn't mentioned a word about Prince DeSade when she'd been here. Sure, she'd heard not long after that about his disappearance from Meredith's Court.

But what was Raenel doing with him? Had she provided the opportunity for his escape?

If she had, the witch was absolutely crazy. Gwynn had seen her fair share of dangerous Blood males in her own district. A few of the men in her First Circle had been some of those once. Some still were, actually.

Even so, she couldn't imagine taking a risk on Meredith's pet. Prince DeSade. Why, the stories she'd heard of his exploits made her shiver in fear and horror. It was rumored that he was notorious as being the most vicious Warlord Prince in Hayll since the Sadist.

Raenel, why? What do you know that would make you do such a thing?

Her expression must have given those thoughts away.

"Surprises you, doesn't it," Lord Isaac prompted.

"Well…yeah. I mean, he's…"

"Not what we've been told," he finished for her. "I thought as you did before I met him in person. Scared the hell out of me, I won't deny. Anyone with a healthy sense of self-preservation should be wary of him. A Warlord Prince with Red Jewels is not to be taken lightly. But for all that, he was never the monster we've always heard him to be."

Gwynn wasn't entirely convinced, but the man was a member of Tarine's First Circle. For that reason, she was willing to give him the benefit of the doubt.

"And Raenel was taking him to his family you say?"

"Caught all of us off-guard, too. One day they were in the Queen's Residence. The next, she was gone- and Prince DeSade with her. Lady Raenel slipping away wasn't all that odd, since we're used to that by now. But as far as we knew, the Prince was staying in the district."

"Apparently not."

"The First Circle was told later that the point of Lady Raenel's visit was to find out if he was ready to go home or not. She and Lady Tarine had discussed it ahead of time, but hadn't wanted to say anything in case the Prince decided to stay on."

Something else had to have been going on there, Gwynn knew. She couldn't quite place what sounded strange about the story, but it felt like something was missing. Lord Isaac wasn't likely to have any answers to what that might be, though. His telling of the events gave her the impression that he'd already exhausted what he knew about Prince DeSade's story.

I'll have to write to Tarine about it if I hope to fill in any gaps he may have left out.

In the meantime, she pressed onward.

"And she said the trip would take a month?"

He was quiet for a minute, and Gwynn realized she might have been pushing a little too hard. She laid her hands flat on the table and tried to look contrite.

"I don't mean to sound rude, Warlord. We're all just a little anxious."

"Understood, Lady Gwynn. The reports we're getting out of Lady Jaemie's district have everyone on edge lately. More so with Raenel gone for so long."

"Needless to say," Nareth spoke up. "Lady Raenel is not here and it's up to us to sort out what to do about Meredith's latest scheme."

"Probably best to get back on track with solutions rather than focus on what we can't do," Ellard added.

Trust those two to reel her back on topic. Gwynn was glad that they had, though, before she got too distracted by the story of Raenel and Prince DeSade. Work first….then she'd wheedle any remaining details out of Lord Isaac.

"Right." She swept a glance around the group assembled. "So, any ideas?"

As expected, no one wanted to be the first to offer anything. Their earlier discussions on the topic hadn't met with much success, so it wasn't the most encouraging of topics. But Turrin surprised her by clearing his throat to speak.

"I think we need to risk more missions into Lady Jaemie's territory. The stronger she gets, the more dangerous it will be for all of us. We need to do what we can to stop that from happening."

"Interfering in her territory could end up with more attention from Meredith and her pet Queens then we can handle."

"Only if they know where to look."

Dubious glances passed around the table.

"You have some plan to make sure they don't come looking here," Nareth grumbled. "Because I'd sure like to hear it."

"None of us have thought of asking for help from the Black Widows. We have several very talented ones in our district, and their Craft may unlock opportunities for us that we've been overlooking so far."

Mother Night, just what was he planning? Gwynn was almost afraid to ask, the incident of a few days ago still fresh in her memory. They'd just gotten back to normal after the healing potion disaster. She didn't want to go through that again.

"Turrin…"

"Her me out a minute," he pleaded

"All right, we're listening."

"It's not safe to go wandering in that district without some protection. I was thinking we ask the Black Widows to create illusions to disguise ourselves when we venture across the border. Nothing drastic, but enough that we're not noticeable. Kind of like the spell Raenel uses to camouflage our district."

"Do you think the witches here could pull off something that complex?"

"I think it's worth a try, and certainly better than having nothing."

"Point taken," Nareth agreed reluctantly. "And what were we going to do in Lady Jaemie's district once we're there"

"Use the best weapon Raenel ever taught us- Protocol."

"You're talking about teaching Protocol in Jaemie's district. Are you mad?"

Judging by the looks of most of her First Circle, Nareth wasn't alone in thinking so. All they could do was stare mutely.

But apparently Turrin wasn't so easily intimidated. He stood and circled to the other end of the table, directly across from her. Gwynn raised an eyebrow, but let him continue. Better a crazy idea than none at all. Turrin sketched her a slight bow and leaned forward to brace both hands on the wooden boards.

"No, Nareth, I'm not," he contended, tone serious. "I think this time on our own is a chance to prove to Lady Raenel that we are worthy of the help she gave us. What better way to do that then to use what we know to build up another community?"

It was a good start, but Nareth wasn't sold yet.

"In a district run by one of Meredith's pet Queens. It will be twice as difficult for any of it to take hold."

"Every time we turn our backs, Lady Jaemie will be tearing apart what we lay down," Ellard added. "Lad, I think your idea is an admirable one- just…overly ambitious."

"It could work," said Lord Isaac, who had been quietly listening to the discussion.

Everyone turned to him in surprise. If they'd kept an eye on him while Turrin had been talking, they wouldn't have been. Which was why Gwynn wasn't. She'd seen him nodding as her First Escort presented his case. Now he appeared ready to support them, continuing the point.

"You are correct that it is a daunting undertaking, but I believe it can be done."

"We're listing."

"For one district alone, it would never work. As you already mentioned, leaving for any reason would mean losing any ground gained in the first place. And sending anyone in permanently is a dangerous option- or at least impractical. What's really needed is a compromise that allows us to be here and there simultaneously.

"That's why working with two districts is a smarter plan. Working together, we could devise a revolving support net. We each send in one or two people who'd be relieved by replacements a few weeks later. And by staggering the rotation schedule, we'd always have someone experienced training a replacement. Not only would it reduce the likelihood any of the Queen's bitches would detect us, but it would keep the new community from disintegrating."

Throughout Lord Isaac's speech, Gwynn saw several others lose their skepticism. Slowly, mind you. But they were won to the plan by the end of it. Even Nareth seemed satisfied. She decided now might be a good time for a vote, so Gwynn cleared her throat and motioned for silence

"You've all heard what Lords Turrin and Isaac have to say. I think it's the best idea we've come up with so far this morning, but I'd like to hear what everyone else feels. Each one of you cast your vote on the matter and we'll see if this is an option to pursue further."

They voted.

Eight strongly in favor of the plan; four still had doubts. After another round of discussion, even those four were swayed. Gwynn adjourned the morning's session with a request for everyone to return later that afternoon to begin the more challenging part.

Planning their next move.

3/Terreille

Ettia stared dully at her hands, hardly paying attention to her cousin's departure. Ever since the audience with Queen Claudia, she'd felt a kind of listlessness, especially during these endless meetings with the Master of the Guard. Part of her really wanted to listen to what he was teaching them. Even if she didn't think half of it would really work in Hayll, Ettia had to admit that he knew a lot about tactical planning.

But a large part of her just didn't care. About anything.

"I'm surprised you didn't want out of this room," she heard a voice above her head say.

Willem. Who else? Ettia shrugged and said nothing, hoping he'd drop it and leave her be. She just wasn't in the mood to deal with it. But she could feel the weight of his disapproval hanging over her without even looking up. He was sure to say something, so might as well get it over with.

"When we met, you didn't strike me as a witch who'd pout when things didn't go how she wanted."

Indignant, Ettia crossed her arms in front of her and frowned.

"I'm not pouting."

He settled into the chair opposite her, clearly unconvinced by her reply.

"Could have fooled me."

"Well I'm not."

"I have a six year old nephew who says the same thing in times like this. He's no more convincing than you are."

"I sure hope this isn't your idea of trying to cheer me up."

All humor left his face, which was strange. More than anyone she'd ever met, Prince Willem always seemed to look amused with the world. It was enough to make Ettia pay attention.

"I'm concerned about you, Ettia. The past few days, it's like you've given up and left your cousin to deal with everything."

"She's got a better mind for all this, anyway."

"Bullshit."

Her jaw dropped in shock, unprepared for the coarseness of his reply. Willem seemed pleased by her reaction and nodded.

"You heard me, Ettia. You are just as capable as Bethaeny, but you're deciding not to use your abilities. Why?"

"What's it to you what I decide to do?"

"Don't be flip with me. In a day or two, you're going back to Hayll, and you're going to need every advantage you have against Meredith. It feels wrong to see you wasting the opportunity to make the most of this time."

"And again, I ask why it should matter to you."

He said nothing at first, and she thought maybe she'd won and he'd give up. Then Willem shook his head.

"It matters because despite that prickly personality of yours, I consider you my friend. A friend I want to see again when all this is over. So snap yourself out of this useless self-pity or I'll drag you out myself."

The room was eerily silent after those words were spoken. Ettia glanced around and realized that everyone else had gone. They were alone in the room.

He called me his friend. No Blood male has ever called me a friend before.

In point of fact, she's not sure any witch had ever called her a friend, either. They'd pretended often enough, but none of them ever meant it. Ettia knew that Willem did, though.

It gave her the courage to say something that she hadn't admitted to Bethaeny. Something she'd tried not to think about since the audience with Queen Claudia, and yet couldn't stop thinking about. Ettia fiddled with a loose thread on the arm of her chair and gathered up her courage to say it aloud. Meanwhile, Willem seemed content to wait.

"What if not getting involved in the planning is the best advantage I can give the others?"

"That doesn't make any sense to me at all."

"That's because you don't know what I know."

"And that is?"

She took a deep breath and let it go.

"You asked me the day we met what someone had to do to survive in Meredith's highest ranks. I'll answer the question, and maybe you'll understand why I said what I did. It's very simple, really. Some piece of you learns to be just like her, even if you don't want to be."

He tried to interrupt, but Ettia cut him off.

"It starts to believe the propaganda and the lies. You stand by and let things happen you know are wrong. And before long, you start to forget they're wrong. What's worse, you realize you're doing more than watching. You're doing it, too.

"Then one day you think you're going to break away- fight back against the witches who took that piece away from you. Get it back and make Hayll a better place. Only thing is, it doesn't quite work that way. Despite your best intentions, those old habits keep getting in the way of truly accepting a different way of life."

It was time to say what had been slowly filling her with dread and fear the past few days.

"So maybe you were right. Some things just can't be undone, and maybe that's a piece of you that never changes back," she finished in a whisper.

"Oh Ettia," he murmured. "I never should have said that to you. It's not true."

"No? Why else would I be so set against Bethaeny's idea to teach the Dhemlan version of Protocol back in Hayll? There's only one answer I can think of: I don't want it to work."

He scooted his chair closer to hers and leaned forward, forearms resting on his knees. Ettia stared at his hands, unable to look up so she wouldn't have to see him agree with her.

"Ettia, it's a long road back. Did you truly expect it would be an easy one?"

"Yeah, I kinda did," she admitted. "Why wouldn't it be? I don't want to be like them anymore. Easiest way to accomplish that is to just stop- so why is that so difficult?"

"Take it from someone who's seen countless witches struggle with the same battle. It's never as black and white as that. It takes years, and none of them dealt with anything as intense as you have."

Finally, she dared look up. Willem's expression was open and earnest. Ettia struggled to quiet the little voice scratching in her head, telling her that he was lying. Why would he lie- for what reason, she demanded of the voice. It tried to reel her in with the idea that his sympathy was only to get something he wanted.

What would he possibly gain by making her feel better? The voice receded, but didn't disappear. As she knew it wouldn't. Still, it was a small victory.

"I suppose so."

"Have you spoken to your cousin about this?"

"I mentioned it somewhat before the audience with the Queen. She's of the same opinion as you, but I figured she had to say it because she's family."

"From what I've seen, Bethaeny is the kind of witch who says what she means." He paused and sighed in bemusement. "Even if she gets tangled up in trying to explain just what that is."

Ettia caught his light-hearted remark and managed a wry smirk.

"You think there's time in the next few days for Prince Kholt to work on that with her? Lady Claudia's Steward certainly has more polish when it comes to speeches."

"I fear that is also going to be a long journey to overcome."

"I thought as much," Ettia grumbled.

Neither of them spoke for a few minutes. She found herself surprised at how much better she felt having confessed her worries to Willem. It was something she could never have conceived of doing in Draega. Paranoia that it would be used as a weapon later would have kept her from confiding in anyone- even with any of the witches in their group. Ettia didn't feel any of that right now. She wanted to thank him, if just for that.

"What?" He asked, looking at her quizzically. "You're giving me the strangest look."

"Sorry. It's just…" she hesitated. "It's dangerous to have a conversation like this in in Hayll- and especially in Draega. It's nice to find somewhere and someone where that's not the case."

"I'm glad to hear you say so, Ettia. The only dangerous conversation I want to have with you is about the fifth chapter of The Winter Season."

For the first time in several days, Ettia felt herself smile. She was gearing up to reply when the door opened and Bethaeny sailed into the room. Lord Shaede followed close behind. Both of them were laughing about who knew what, but Ettia's attention caught on the difference in the way they were looking at one another. Something happened on that walk to the garden. Willem caught on much quicker than she did, and rolled his eyes at her.

"It's about damned time," he commented half under his breath. "If I had to listen to Shaede moon over whether he was going to make a move or not for one more night, I was going to go crazy."

Move? What…Ettia darted her eyes back to the pair. At once, she understood what he meant.

"I had no idea. I don't think Bethaeny did, either."

"Since the first day we saw her in Amdarh. He's talked of little else since. Even wrote some poetry- which I sure hope he never shows to her at risk of embarrassing himself. He's not the best wordsmith, quite frankly."

A Warlord writing poetry about her cousin. The concept was quite beyond Ettia's grasp, but it somewhat eased her fears about what he wanted. Still, she couldn't stop herself from asking the question foremost in her mind.

"Is she safe with him," she whispered in a low voice that only Willem could hear. "I don't mean to offend, but…"

"Relax, it's okay that you need to ask. I would have thought it strange if you hadn't."

"Great. Now you make me sound like a worrywart."

"Not at all. I promise you that your cousin will be safe with Lord Shaede. On my honor."

As Ettia studied him, she admitted to herself that he was the first to speak of honor and mean every word. Satisfied, she leaned back in her chair and propped her head on one hand.

"Well I hope the two of them can get their minds back on the tactics of subverting Meredith," she remarked drily. "Our twenty minute break is nearly up and I don't want to be the only one paying attention to what Prince Vaerill has to say."

"So do I take that to mean you're going to be taking part in discussions going forward?"

"By the time we're through today, you might have fond memories of silence."

4/Terreille

Collette surveyed the group assembled in front of her. Yemar and Lady Damelle made good on their promise to find candidates for their youth network. Yesterday they'd reviewed a list, and today, she was meeting the first round of young people chosen. They all looked nervous, but hopeful, too. She hoped that was a good sign.

Well, I guess I ought to get stated.

"All right everyone, we're ready to begin the interviews." Collette motioned to the first boy on the left. "You first."

The boy swallowed nervously and stepped forward. This was probably the first time he'd been this close to a Queen, so she couldn't blame him. On the other hand, it was still strange to be thought of as intimidating. Collette never pictured herself as overly imposing.

"Your name?"

"Haerring, my Lady."

She immediately knew the name and smiled.

"Oh yes, your father supplies the Queen's Residence with most of our grains."

"That he does, Lady."

"What about you, then? Not interested in following that trade?"

The boy shook his head.

"I've got two older brothers. There's not enough room for me there."

Collette thought she heard him mumble under his breath something that sounded like 'not to mention it's dead boring'. When she caught Faeston cough and look away, she knew she wasn't the only one. So much the better. Maybe running messages and learning Court work would be more exciting for a boy his age.

"Well then, sounds like you might be the sort of person the Court is looking for. Has Lord Yemar explained to you the nature of the positions we're filling?"

"Yes, Lady. Said we might be message runners- between folks like my father and the First Circle."

"That's a part of it. Arguably, the largest part. But may be assisting the First Circle with other things as well."

"Aye, the Lord mentioned that as well."

That was half the work done already. She'd asked Yemar to speak to the youths before they came before her. No point in seeing them if the type of work didn't suit their interests. But she still had one aspect that she wanted to address in person. The young people before her needed to know the risks they would face as well.

"Good. Now I want to be clear up front that although it may not sound like it, the position you'd be filling in the Court is not always going to be a safe one. As you are aware, the neighboring districts are becoming more dangerous by the day, and the Blood ruling them will not care about age or gender if they catch you on Court business. Torture and death are possible."

Low murmurs sped through the line of young witches and Warlords waiting for their turn. Collette knew she'd alarmed them, but couldn't in good conscience ask them to volunteer themselves for this if they didn't know what they were getting into. She kept a steady gaze on Haerring.

"That being said, does this opportunity interest you, Lord Haerring? If not, I'd be happy to assist you to find something else in the district if this wasn't what you were hoping for. Don't feel as though you have to say yes."

The boy nodded and was silent for a few moments. Judging by his expression when they'd been talking, his acceptance of the position had already been made. Collette swore that she felt a pull with the boy similar to the one she felt with her First Circle. Not as strong, but there was a connection there.

What would Raenel call it, she asked herself. Second Circle, maybe? Not for a few years yet, though- when he's old enough to sign an official contract.

That's if they were able to keep Meredith and her pet Queens at bay that long. Before Raenel had left, she'd hinted that maybe they'd have a few years before they would be forced to declare war on Meredith. Collette certainly didn't want to attempt it any sooner.

You may not have a choice. If the reports coming out of Lady Julaene's district got any worse, she may have to defend her own district whether she was prepared or not. By whatever means necessary- including open war.

*Collette?* Faeston sent on a private thread. *Are you okay?*

*What?*

*You seemed to have drifted off into your own thoughts*

*Oh hell* she cursed at herself. *Sorry about that. I got distracted by a random observation and must have been pondering longer than I thought*

Shaking herself out of her reverie, Collette brought her focus back on the young man before her.

"My apologies to everyone for my momentary inattention. If I've missed your answer, Lord Haerring, I kindly ask you to repeat it."

"No problem, Lady. I would gladly take one of the positions you are offering, if you'll have me."

Although she caught the eyes of everyone in her First Circle for any last opinion, the final decision rested on her. She gestured to Correy.

"I believe we have our first member. Would you draw up the necessary documents and speak with the parents after this session?"

"Your will is my command, Lady."

"Welcome to the Court, Lord Haerring," she congratulated warmly.

"Pleased to be here, Lady Collette," he replied before stepping back in line.

The next was a witch of sixteen or so. She was a little less nervous than Haerring had been, but no less excited.

"Lady Mirabel," she offered with a barely contained nod.

A quick look at Lady Damelle told her who this was.

"You wouldn't happen to be the baker's daughter, would you?"

"My talents there are quite…" the witch lifted her hands in capitulation. "Well they're damned useless, except for turning bread into stone. As you're probably aware, my Lady. I was hoping that maybe this would be a more promising direction."

The girl had a sense of humor about her own failings, which immediately struck a chord with Collette. She heard a little of herself in that somewhat acerbic tone- reminded of conversation she'd had with Raenel during her early training years. She'd always felt like she was a fish out of water during those lessons, too.

"And what might you be more interested to learn?"

"I'm good at organizing things," Mirabel offered quickly. "Papa gave me those jobs to keep me out of the kitchen."

*You hear that, Correy- we may have an assistant for you in the record archives*

She couldn't resist teasing him, since he'd been the hardest to convince about the idea. But was surprised at his rather enthusiastic reply.

*Once we start this petition system, I'm going to need one*

"I'm sure we could use those skills," Collette said with a smile. "And not to worry- no kitchen work here."

"I'd be happy to try my hand at anything else, Lady."

"And you understand the risks?"

The witch nodded. "Yes, I do."

"Welcome to the Court, then, Lady Mirabel."

They continued with the audience for a long while. A lot longer than Collette realized. Next time, she'd be sure that Yemar scheduled less people to interview. Twelve at a time was far too many. More than a few of the youths were getting restless, even though they remained politely quiet. At least she'd had the idea to bring in chairs halfway through, or the audience would have been uncomfortable standing so long.

Finally, it had come down to the last tone. A witch of the same general age as the others, with a similar story as well. But Collette got an uneasy feeling about her that she hadn't felt with the others. Not even with the ones who didn't end up wanting a position with the Court. She would have accepted them no question if they hadn't changed their minds. This witch was different somehow, although Collette couldn't put her finger just why.

Just in case it was her imagination, she called the girl forward to interview her.

"And what's your name?"

"Lorraine, Lady."

"What were you hoping for when you heard about the positions we were opening in the Court?"

"My father is a blacksmith, you see. It's not really a business for ladies."

The girl's tone said a lot to her. More than the words. Hard and dirty work didn't suit Lorraine's ideas of what she wanted to do with her life. Trouble was, the work expected of the messengers wasn't exactly going to be easy, either. Collette didn't want to take on anyone not willing to work hard, and was inclined to give her decision already. But the girl went on.

"I got stepped on a few times and thought this might earn less broken toes."

It was a good joke, similar to what Mirabel had done earlier in the audience. Titters of laughter escaped several of the other young people, and even some of her First Circle. So why didn't Collette find it as entertaining? Perhaps because it felt…rehearsed. Like the witch had purposefully told a joke to get a more positive reaction. It wasn't really natural to her personality. But she couldn't be sure either way.

"I did mention earlier that messengers will be taking some risks," she said. "That may include physical danger from time to time."

"Oh I understand that, Lady. I'm not afraid."

You should be, little witch, Collette mused grimly. If any of Lady Julaene's coven get their hands on you, you'll suffer far worse than broken toes.

"I just wanted to be sure you understood."

"Of course."

She ought to just put an end to this and reject the girl now. It wouldn't be pleasant, but she didn't want the girl involved in her Court. Unfortunately, her hesitation had created an awkward pause. Lady Lorraine was looking at her expectantly, obviously very sure that she'd get offered a place. That would only make this harder.

*Are you waiting for something, Lady* Yemar queried. *Dwyne was wondering what's behind the delay*

*Dwyne? Why him?*

*I guess this witch is from his neighborhood in the district, and he was really hoping to do this for the girl's father*

*Did he say why?*

*No* Yemar was instantly alert. *Is there a problem?*

*Maybe. Do you feel anything off about her?*

Yemar easily slid into his Master of the Guard role, and swept a critical eye over the girl. Looking for who knew what. But that was the mystery of his skills that Collette had learned to trust almost as much as her own instinct. So when he shrugged, she was dismayed that he hadn't picked up anything to support her feeling.

*Maybe she's a little more opinionated than the other girls, but I think she's a year or two older*

Maybe that's all it was. Collette began to waver, and looked to Dwyne, who was eagerly waiting for her decision.

I can always choose to dismiss her later if I need to, she reasoned. In the meantime, I can watch her to see if it's just a difference of personality or not.

"Well, if you're sure-"

"Oh yes, very sure, Lady. I really want this chance to do something so important. For our community," she added as an afterthought.

Opinionated for sure. Collette hoped no one noticed that she was gritting her teeth over the girl's temerity. She'd actually interrupted her, and didn't seem to care that she had done it. That would have to be dealt with soon or she'd bounce Lady Lorraine out on her bottom before sundown.

"Welcome to the Court, Lady Lorraine."

"You won't regret it, I promise."

As the girl turned away, Collette couldn't help feeling that she already was.

5/Terreille

If this meeting lasted one more minute, Bethaeny might lose her mind. She'd barely been able to focus since that kiss with Shaede in the garden. But Prince Vaerill and the others either hadn't noticed, or just decided to ignore her occasional lapses. They'd merely gone on and on about what options they had, and which might work the best.

By best, Bethaeny understood they meant which ones would destroy Meredith and her coven in the end. But all of them promised a good deal of bloodshed and sacrifice on their part. More than Bethaeny had expected, honestly. No doubt Ettia would gloat about that the whole way back to Hayll.

Although…she sneaked a quick look at her cousin. Ettia was certainly different ever since the break this afternoon. She'd said more in the first five minutes than she had all morning. Hell's fire, she'd even managed to give meaningful suggestions that actually sounded positive. Willem had performed the impossible, it would seem.

I wonder if maybe there's something going on with them like me and Shaede?

Doubtful, but not impossible. It might be fun to tease her cousin a little. Tomorrow. Tonight, she had plans, and none of them included Ettia, Willem or anything about the struggle with Meredith back in Hayll. Bethaeny unerringly found Shaede and felt her pulse jump when he winked at her. Oh boy.

"Lady Bethaeny?"

She jerked at the sound of her name, temporarily disoriented.

"I'm sorry, what?"

From the far side of the table, she swore she heard snickering, but wasn't sure if it was Shaede or Willem. Prince Vaerill ignored it and continued what he had been saying.

"I think we've done as much as we can for the night, if you and Lady Ettia agree."

Oh hell yeah, I agree. Not that she could say it like that, though. And she ought to ask Ettia, too.

*I'm ready to call it a night* she sent as casually as she could manage. *What do you think?*

*My dear cousin, I'm surprised that you didn't leap out of your chair the second Prince Vaerill suggested it*

*I don't know what you're talking about*

*Oh no? I've seen you and Lord Shaede looking at one another all afternoon. Did you think I wouldn't notice?*

Bethaeny kinda hoped she wouldn't. Despite the sudden mood change, she doubted Ettia would approve of what she wanted to do. She sighed, resigned to listening to her cousin's reasons why it was inappropriate or wrong to go to bed with Shaede.

*Are you disappointed in me?*

*Not at all, actually*

*Really?*

*Really*

Who would have thought it? Willem really did work the impossible.

*Well, then, since I don't hear any disapproval your way, I'm telling him we're good for the night*

*Go ahead*

*We'll talk tomorrow about what we learned today, okay?*

*Yes, yes. For pity sake, Bethaeny, just go before you burst something*

"Thank you, Prince. Yes, I believe today has been very productive, but it might be good to take some time to contemplate on it before going further."

*Very smooth answer, cousin* Ettia sent with a smirk. *You are almost convincing enough to make him believe you're going to 'contemplate' something other than what Lord Shaede looks like naked*

Bethaeny barely managed to keep from choking. What in the hell had happened to her cousin? She wasn't used to Ettia engaging in this sort of banter. Not that she didn't enjoy the change, but it was a little strange compared to the cousin she'd known for the past few decades.

As soon as she gathered her wits, Bethaeny snapped back with a witty reply.

*I don't intend to contemplate on that for very long*

With that, the meeting quickly adjourned. Claudia's First Circle emptied out of the room with nods and quiet words of farewell. In minutes, only the four of them were left behind. Willem's look was knowing- and that was being generous. He tipped his head to Ettia.

"Why don't you and I go argue some more about our favorite book? I think one of these days I'll convince you that I'm right about chapter five."

"I doubt it, but if you're willing to try again, I'll be more than happy to prove you wrong again."

He held out a hand to her.

"Shall we?"

"Good night, cousin," Ettia said as she took it. She looked at Shaede. "And you, Lord Shaede."

"Good night, Lady Ettia."

And then they were gone and it was just her and Lord Shaede. Alone. Bethaeny was feeling very warm all of a sudden. And kind of nervous. How stupid was that? This shouldn't be such a big deal. She wasn't a virgin. Men had seen her naked before, and she'd seen plenty of them naked.

Not like this.

Bethaeny was struck by the realization why this time was so different, and she almost wanted to call the whole thing off. She hadn't really thought this through, had she?

In Hayll, she never had to worry about whether a man was satisfied. Hell's fire, she didn't know much of anything to ensure Shaede would be. What if she made an idiot of herself? What if he was disappointed? Oh she couldn't endure the humiliation of that outcome.

But he was already moving towards her, a determined and intent look on his face. She had to say something before it was too late. The words stuck in her head, not even getting as far as her mouth, which seemed to be just as useless at the moment. Shaede must have noticed her panic, and stopped just before reaching her.

"Bethaeny? What's wrong?"

He's going to think I'm so stupid if I tell him. But she didn't want to lie, either. Bethaeny floundered helplessly, at a loss how to answer. He studied her carefully for a minute or two, concern evident.

"If I had to guess," he offered at last, "I'd say you're scared."

"I…"

"Is it the Ring issue?"

"The what?"

"The Ring of Obedience. We don't have them here in Dhemlan and I know that can be daunting for a witch from Hayll. Especially if a man's Jewels outrank hers. If that's what has you worried, I swear you'll be safe. The last thing I'd want to do is break you, Bethaeny. I hope you know that."

"Oh," she replied slowly.

Bethaeny was caught off guard at the direction of his guess. He'd completely misread the reason for her anxiety. The idea that Shaede would hurt her hadn't even crossed her mind. Even now that he'd brought it up, Bethaeny couldn't find any part of her that believed it could happen.

There was no help for it. The only way to clear up this mess was to admit what was really bothering her. She just prayed that he wouldn't laugh.

I'll just die if he laughs.

"No…it's nothing like that," she assured him. "It's just…damn, this is so embarrassing."

"What is?"

Maybe she could find a way to explain it without having to say anything outright. Vague was good. So she tried to give him an obvious- and yet nonspecific- hint, hoping that Shaede would understand.

"I'm Hayllian."

"Yeah, I thought we covered that this afternoon."

Okay, so he didn't understand. She'd have to give him a little more help before her point got through.

"Only partly."

"You're Hayllian and I'm Dhemlan- there's not that much difference."

Oh but there is, Bethaeny wanted to say. He just didn't know what it was.

Now Bethaeny felt more than just embarrassed. This was far worse than just a lack of skills. She realized that before they could go any further, she would have to tell him something very unflattering about herself, and worried that instead of laughing at her…he might hate her.

By all rights, he should hate her. After all, hadn't she used the Ring on Warlords in Draega and dosed them with safframate? She may have had mixed feelings about it at the time, but it hadn't stopped her. That wasn't going to be easy to admit. Bethaeny took a deep breath and prayed to the Darkness that she'd make it through this without making too much of a disaster of it.

"You may think otherwise when you hear what I have to tell you."

Shaede shifted on his feet and gestured for her to continue.

"I've done things," she began. "Things I'm not proud of when I look back on them. You mentioned that in Hayll we have the Ring. Well I've used one. And safframate. In Meredith's Court, that's all you learn. To be cruel, and…" her voice broke and a lump lodged in her throat.

Bethaeny struggled to talk around it. She had to keep going.

"That's how I was there. Maybe not as bad as any of Meredith's pet favorites, but I was one of her monsters all the same. That's what it means when I say I'm Hayllian."

The room was deathly silent. She noticed that at some point, she'd lowered her eyes to her hands. Probably for the best. If Shaede hated her now, Bethaeny would rather not see it. She waited for him to say something- anything- about what she'd just told him. The longer it took, the more she was afraid she was right.

When tears threatened to fall, she tried to cover it up with a hurried sniff. Bethaeny wiped a hand over her cheek and tried to retreat.

"Maybe…maybe I should just go."

"Don't bother, Lady," he cut in coldly. "I was just leaving."

She closed her eyes against the vehemence in his voice, wishing she could disappear. Her worst fears had come true. Now that he knew what she really was, he hated her. It hurt.

The room was silent, so Bethaeny figured Shaede must have left. No reason to stay here any longer. She might as well go back to her suite. With a sigh, Bethaeny opened her eyes again and looked up. Shaede was still there, glaring stonily at her.

"You're the worst kind of hypocrite. I thought you were like Lady Raenel, but I was wrong. You're just like the witches who had her murdered, and I'm sorry that we wasted any time on trying to help you. How can someone like you help fix Hayll? You're part of the problem."

Tears filled her eyes, making her vision a little blurry. Not enough to completely obscure the contemptuous look on Shaede's face. She felt ripped apart and battered. The things he'd said were far worse than anything Meredith had said to her. Made all the more hurtful because Shaede's opinion truly mattered to her- as much or more than Ettia's.

"Please listen…" she begged.

"I don't want to hear anything you have to say. You've said quite enough already. From now on, stay far away from me, Lady. I want nothing more to do with you or your cousin."

With that, he turned on his heel and stalked out of the room. Bethaeny barely held onto her dignity long enough for him to be out of earshot before she started weeping bitterly. She couldn't even stand, and collapsed into one of the chairs. And for a long while, all she did was cry.

Eventually, Bethaeny ran out of tears. Her throat was raw, just like her eyes and nose. She probably looked awful, but that didn't really matter much, did it? Not after what Shaede had just said about her. Might as well be as ugly on the outside as he thought she was on the inside.

She stood and walked unsteadily to the door into the hall. Now if she could just get back to her suite without running into anyone else- especially Willem and Ettia. The last thing she needed was to have them prying into her with questions about what happened. Bethaeny just wanted to be left alone.

If she was lucky, she could convince Ettia to go to the meetings alone for the next few days. They only had a few more before going back to Hayll. Maybe she could pretend to be ill so she wouldn't have to see Shaede. Bethaeny couldn't face that look again, and tried not to dwell on the thought that it would be the last memory of him she would take away from here.

How had a day that started out so well go so wrong in the end?