Walking With You

by Aylatha

"And how have you been, Sonea?", Lorlen asked. "Well." "Well, she says", Akkarin huffed, covering his face with one hand. "I'm still alive, aren't I?" Lorlen's eyebrows rose. Rothen's knees buckled. "What?", he yelped, colour draining from his face.

14. Solstice

A/N:

In this chapter, Chessea has visitors, Takan makes a suggestion, and Sonea graduates.

Will Akkarin finally tell her how he feels? Or will she beat him to it? But, more importantly: Will Akkarin survive Rothen's wrath?

Oh, I update the tags as we go along, too. Might wanna check them out ^^

---

About a week had passed since Chessea had sent a footman to meet with Sonea's family, and make an attempt to recruit her uncle. She hadn't heard from them at all since, and was starting to wonder if they had simply dismissed her offer – it was highly irregular for a high-born lady such as herself to send someone out to recruit a person she wasn't acquainted with, after all, and it was entirely possible that Sonea's family believed that she was up to something nefarious.

Chessea had half a mind to write to Sonea, and get her to intercede on her behalf. She was certain that Sonea would be on board with this once Chessea explained the situation to her.

Chessea ceased her pacing and turned toward her desk, determined to pen the letter straight away, when a knock sounded on the door. She bade the person enter, and a servant announced that Jonna and Ranel had arrived.

It took all of Chessea's willpower not to start grinning like an idiot. Finally! The picture of serenity and composure, she instructed the servant to show them into the small sitting room that was part of her personal suite.

Chessea entered the room to find Sonea's aunt and uncle seated on a divan. Ranel had a baby strapped to his chest, wile Jonna was bouncing a small boy on her lap. Chessea had to suppress a smile – both children looked adorable.

Jonna and Ranel looked up when they heard the door open, and Jonna immediately rose to her feet, extending a hand to help Ranel, who was scrambling to get himself upright.

"Please do not trouble yourself. I can see that you have trouble with your leg."

Ranel looked relieved as he sank back down. Jonna, however, narrowed her eyes at Chessea. Rather intrigued by that, Chessea returned her gaze evenly. She had not expected such steel – but she found that she liked it.

"I thank you both for accepting my invitation. I am Chessea of Velan, the lady of this house."

"We are most honoured that you decided to invite us", Jonna replied, her strong slum accent unmistakable. "We apologise for not coming sooner – we had a few things to take care of."

"No matter. Do be seated. Would you care for some raka?"

"That would be great."

Chessea summoned a servant to fetch them drinks before sitting down in a cushioned chair, and arranging her skirts. Jonna sat down as well.

"So, the way I hear it, you want to hire me as an accountant?", Ranel asked.

"That is correct."

"Are you aware of the fact that I can't write?"

"I am. Rest assured that this is not required – what I want you to do is assist our accountant – who is getting on in years. His eyesight is not the best any more, and reading too many numbers exhausts him. What I would like you to do is perform calculations for him."

"Like a human abacus?"

"Something like that, yes", Chessea chuckled. "Besides, learning numbers is much easier than learning letters – I believe that you should be able to learn how to read numbers rather quickly. Depending on your performance, I would be willing to let you take over the accountant's position eventually – or remain as the new accountant's assistant. Your wages would be dependent on your skill – though they would not be below a certain limit. You would be housed here, in the servant's wing, and meals would be included, of course."

"That sounds awfully generous", Jonna observed.

"It is standard procedure, really", Chessea replied with a shrug.

A servant arrived carrying a small tray. Chessea poured Jonna and Ranel some raka before preparing a cup of sumi for herself.

"And what am I supposed to do?"

"Seeing as how I do not know your skills, I have nothing specific in mind at the moment, but I am certain that we will find something, should you decide to take my offer. One of the maids has recently expressed her wish to get married – I'd imagine she would have children soon after. You could work in tandem – and look after each other's children."

Jonna frowned. "Sharing a position with another would mean less pay."

"Correct. However, you would still have bed and board, meaning your expenses will be low. If you would rather work more hours instead, I am certain that can be arranged – but I figured you would want to spend some time with your children. They grow up so fast."

"How many children have you got?", Jonna asked curiously.

"Five, which I consider sufficient. The eldest is nine, the youngest two."

"I see. Funny, really – you're younger than I am, m'lady, but your children are older than mine."

"And my sisters and I were married rather late, or what goes as 'late' among nobles", Chessea chuckled.

"It's not good to let girls marry too young. Or boys, for that matter. I've seen how that can end."

"Indeed", Chessea replied, sobering. "My eldest daughter will be joining the Guild, they are not allowed to marry until they graduate. And I do not intend to arrange marriages for any of my other children before they turn twenty."

"I thought it was the fathers who did the arranging?", Ranel asked with a frown.

"Ah, well, as it happens, my dear husband found out that he was not the one in charge the day he married me", Chessea replied with a smirk.

Jonna laughed. Ranel looked amused.

"You seem like a decent sort", Jonna said after a while, "but I must ask: Why are you doing this?"

"Are you aware that I am friends with your niece, Sonea?"

"Yes."

"Well, you have your answer."

"Your brother said that this might be the case, and Sonea encouraged us to meet with you. She seems to like you a lot."

"Well, then, what do you think?"

Jonna and Ranel exchanged a look, and he gave her a nod.

"Very well."

"Excellent. Jonna, if you would come with me to see the housekeeper. Ranel, I would like to introduce you to my accountant, who would like to test the extent of your abilities. We will work out the finer details after that."

"Sounds good."

Chessea stood with a smile, quite pleased with the outcome of this interview. She strode from the room, and Jonna and Ranel followed after her.

Chessea was immensely glad that they had come to her before she could dispatch a letter to Sonea. Now, she would have even better news to tell.

---

"My lady, is the food not to your liking?"

Jolted out of her gloomy thoughts by Takan's concerned voice, Sonea realised that, instead of eating, she'd been pushing her food around on her plate for a while.

"No, no, your food is delicious, as always – I just don't find myself having much of an appetite today."

"Is something troubling you, Sonea?", Akkarin asked gently.

Sonea paused before whispering, "I dread the thought of being alone."

Akkarin blinked. "I fear I lack the context to be able to make sense of that remark."

With a sigh, Sonea set down her fork. Recently, thoughts of what would happen upon her graduation had plagued her incessantly, it had taken her a conscious effort to focus on something else. She'd been desperate for distractions, had done her utmost to avoid being alone with her thoughts, but when she'd been alone at night, they had crept back in, tormenting her.

It was no surprise that Akkarin didn't understand her issues – she had done her best to hide them from him, after all. She knew that if she told him that she didn't want to talk about it, he would let the matter rest, but part of her felt the desperate need to unburden herself.

"Growing up, I was always with my family – my aunt and uncle. I – don't know what it's like, having parents, but I never really missed them since I had Jonna and Ranel. No matter what happened, no matter how tough things got, we were always together, and we always had each other's backs. To me, it was the most natural thing in the world, and I never thought that this would change.
"Things did change abruptly after I'd thrown that rock, however. Cery tried to hide me, but soon realised that he couldn't do it by himself. Especially after the Guild had announced to reward anyone who turned me in – my own friends turned on me, the temptation too much to resist."

Akkarin grimaced at that.

"Cery saw no other option than to turn to the Thieves for help, and managed to strike a deal with one. The Thief would keep me safe from the Guild in exchange for my magic. Unfortunately, it soon turned out that I had no idea how to use my magic. I tried experimenting with it, but it hardly ever did what I wanted it to.
"It didn't take us long to figure out that the magicians looking for me could somehow sense it if I used magic because they kept getting closer and closer to my hiding place whenever this happened."

"That was my idea, actually", Akkarin admitted. "I could sense your busts of uncontrolled magic all the way from the slums, and they drove me quite crazy, I must confess."

"Oh, no", Sonea whispered. "I had no idea I already caused you trouble back then, on a personal level, I mean.
"Anyway, I was instructed not to use magic, and for a while, this worked. However, my magic would respond to my emotions – Jonna came to visit shortly after getting pregnant with Kerrel, and when I heard the news, I felt that slipping sensation that indicated that I'd used magic. I couldn't see what it had done – I only found out when Jonna wanted to leave. I'd shattered the floor tiles a storey above me. Jonna was terrified that I might harm the baby. I was terrified.
"Things got worse after that – because my magic would destroy furniture or set things on fire, I was hidden inside bare rooms with only minimal comfort. I was alone for long stretches of time as people were too nervous to be around me – and we figured that I had to remain as calm and unfeeling as possible. I remember wondering how magicians lived like this – if they were all unfeeling and cold, if this was the price to be paid for having magic.
"Those days were the worst of my life. I was alone, and frightened, terrified that I might hurt people with this power I never wanted, terrified that the Guild would find me. I had no-one to talk to, no-one to share these thoughts with. The more I tried to get my powers to obey me, the more it felt like I was losing control.
"They even drugged me, and I had strange dreams – once, I was taken to a magician who was hiding in the slums, who told them that he couldn't help me, and that I should go to the Guild."

"Ah, that must have been Senfel."

"You know him?"

"He faked his own death a few years ago", Akkarin replied with a shrug. "He's harmless, so I let him believe that I don't know about him."

"Oh, I see. Part of me had been convinced that he wasn't real.
"By the time Rothen and the others finally found me, the situation had taken a massive toll on my body and mind. Still, I wasn't ready to give up, and fought them to the last.
"After coming to the Guild, things got better – well, once I was over my fear of Rothen, that is. I learned Control. I regained the weight I had lost. I felt safe – and I no longer was alone. Rothen was only two doors away from my room, and I knew I could always go to him if I needed anything. Slowly, I started to heal.
"And then – then I had to leave. My stay at the Novices' Quarters was awful – even surrounded by people, I felt alone. Thankfully, Regin and the others quickly learned not to bother me in my room after I'd called Lord Ahrind for help once, but that didn't stop them from bothering me in the hallway. Once again, I was cut off from the people I cared about, the people who cared about me."

Sonea took a moment to organise her thoughts. She didn't feel the need to explain how the first one-and-a-half years living here had been for her, as Akkarin had been around to witness that. Nor did she feel that she had to explain how completely her feelings had changed during the last half year. Of course, Akkarin didn't know the extent of her feelings, thankfully, but he should be smart enough to deduce that she had come to enjoy living here, with him. And Takan. They had formed a strange kind of – well, she couldn't really put it into words. Dare she call it a family? It seemed inappropriate, yet kind of fitting.

"I would like nothing more than to move back in with Rothen after graduating", she explained quietly. "However, that'd be like asking for trouble. I also had half a mind to ask Trassia if we could move in together, but she and Narron decided to get married the day of our graduation, and I am not moving in with a newly married couple."

Akkarin grimaced.

"I'll be alone again", she said morosely as she picked up her fork, and resumed pushing her food around. "Well, at least no-one will be able to stop me from decorating the entire place with dried lavender. But I hate the idea. I don't want to be alone again. But I don't know what to do, either."

Akkarin reached for his wine, a deep frown on his face.

Takan looked from Sonea to Akkarin, and back.

"I believe getting married would solve all these problems", he observed matter-of-factly.

Sonea's fork clattered onto the table as she grasped Takan's meaning.

Akkarin spat out his wine.

Takan's eyes widened almost comically. "Don't tell me you were both unaware?", he breathed.

"Unaware of what?", Akkarin gasped as he reached for his napkin.

"That you are in love with each other."

Sonea gaped at him. Out of the corner of her eye, she could see Akkarin sporting a similar expression.

"Goodness. Well, then, I will leave you two to sort this out. Please don't take too long. The two of you dancing around each other as you have has taken years of my life."

He bowed, and briskly left the room.

Sonea continued staring at the spot he had just occupied for a full minute before scraping together the courage to risk a glance at Akkarin, who seemed as bewildered as she was feeling.

Was Takan right? Did he truly reciprocate? It seemed too good to be true.

Akkarin caught her gaze, and let out a sigh.

"This is not what I had in mind."

Something within Sonea fluttered, and she felt a spark of hope. Part of her wanted to snuff it out it, but she found herself unable to do so.

"What did you have planned, then?", she heard herself ask.

"Nothing concrete yet, but I had a few ideas. None of which included having my servant tell you that I loved you."

Sonea's heart skipped a beat, then another, and she had to force herself to remember how to breathe.

He shot her a look that was hard to decipher – he was nervous, that much was clear, but he also seemed cautiously hopeful.

"Tell me – is Takan's assumption correct? Do you truly feel the same way?"

"Y-yes, I do – although I have no idea how he figured it out – I was trying so hard to hide it."

"Why?"

"Because I was certain that you did not – would never – reciprocate. I had no reason to believe that you were in love with me."

"Fair enough. I had not planned to tell you before your graduation, given our situation."

"It still feels unreal", Sonea muttered. "I don't think you're lying, but – I can't wrap my head around it."

Akkarin rose to his feet, much to her surprise, and walked halfway around the table before stopping.

"May I show you? And lay those worries to rest?"

Sonea rose to her feet slowly, and made her way over to him. He held out his hands – and surprised her by lacing their fingers together.

His mind sought hers – due to the gem he was wearing, she could not sense his thoughts, but she could still receive thoughts and images projected at her.

He sent her a picture of her in the Arena – the first time they had practised with knives. She had seemed so vibrant, so alive to him, her eyes shining, a smile on her face as she had bested him for the first time.

Fierce. Dauntless. Elegant.

This was followed by a barrage of emotions, ranging from admiration to an intense, searing love.

— Look at me.

Their minds still connected, Sonea opened her eyes, and found herself looking into Akkarin's. He had that strange look on his face, the one she had noticed more often recently, but been unable to make sense of.

Well, now she knew what it meant.

He loved her. He truly loved her.

Sonea couldn't help the silly grin that spread over her face. Determined to reciprocate in kind, she sent him the image of him in the moonlight, the night they had been gazing out at the sleeping Guild together.

Beautiful. Kind. Caring.

Akkarin staggered under the onslaught of her emotions, his eyes widening in wonder and shock. Sonea made an alarmed sound, and reached out to steady him.

"Do you need to sit down?"

"I think so", Akkarin whispered, still seeming very out of it.

Sonea drew out the nearest chairs with her magic, and Akkarin sank down on one with a grateful smile.

"And there was me thinking you couldn't come up with new ways to surprise me", he said with a wry smile.

"Did you doubt my words?"

"No. But I was not prepared for the depth or intensity of your emotions."

"I see."

"Well, then, now that we have both established that we are, in fact, in love with each other, we should determine where to go from here. Does Takan's suggestion that we get married sound agreeable to you?"

"I suppose it is the only logical next step", Sonea mused. "Going our separate ways and pining after each other does not sound appealing."

"I am glad that we are in agreement."

"Takan will be delighted. Although I suspect that he has a rather selfish motive."

"Oh?"

"If I marry you, he gets to fret over me for the rest of our lives", Sonea replied with a smirk.

"Indeed. Although he may have also been worried that you would be forced to eat the sub-par cooking of another servant instead of his."

"A fate worse than death."

"Certainly."

Unable to contain themselves any longer, both of them burst out laughing. It took them a good while to get themselves back under control.

"If we wish to avoid you having to move out only to move back in once we get married, we would have to get married on the day of your graduation", Akkarin hedged.

"A winter solstice wedding. How auspicious."

"I did not take you to be the superstitious type."

"I'm not. But the symbolism is nice. And I look forward to starting a new year together with you."

"I agree."

"How does it work, though? Getting married? I'd imagine that a lot more ceremony and pomp are involved for you nobles."

"Not really. The wedding itself is a formality – we need an appointment with a ministry clerk, bring witnesses, and sign some papers. A celebration – hosted either by the bride or the groom's family – is optional, although most nobles insist on throwing lavish feasts."

"I see. Weddings in the slums are much the same – except that we skip the part with the ministry official, and the signing of papers."

"I see."

"I'm curious, though – how long have you harboured feelings for me, exactly?"

"I cannot say for certain", Akkarin replied hesitantly, as though afraid of her reaction. "By the time I noticed, it was already far too late – but I estimate that I developed those feelings not long after you moved in. Lorlen, I fear, laid the groundwork – I was already interested in you, in a detached manner, before I took on your guardianship. It would have never developed into anything had you remained in Rothen's care, though."

"I see."

This account matched her own perception of things. Akkarin was still watching her apprehensively, as though he was worried that she would blow up in his face at any moment.

"I have a confession to make", Sonea said with a sigh, glancing down at their joint hands before looking up to meet his gaze. "What you just told me doesn't really surprise me as I realised that you found me attractive the night after the attack, and figured that this had been going on for a while."

She had been prepared for him to recoil at her words, and tightened her grip on his hands. Akkarin had turned pale, and gone rigid in his chair.

"You – you noticed", he gasped, eyes wide. "But, then – why? Why would you still spend time with me, alone, willingly, despite knowing this?"

"I will admit that I panicked, briefly, at first. That is, once you'd left the room. I refused to dwell on these thoughts while there was a chance that you might notice them."

"Why?"

"Because then we would have had to confront the issue, and I wasn't ready to do so, not back then. I'd only just found out that you were not a monster. I couldn't deal with the fact that you – that you were attracted to me. It was too much. I didn't understand.
"Once you had left, I suffered a brief moment of panic, but forced myself to stay level-headed, and analyse the situation. Your previous behaviour. The things you had told me. Your behaviour that night. And I came to the conclusion that I could trust you. That you would never do anything I was not comfortable with – something you proved to me over and over and over again."

Akkarin shook his head in disbelief. "All this time, I was convinced that, if you ever were to find out, you would flee. Or strike me down. Which I would have deserved. And yet – you just took it in stride?"

"It was a bit of a process", Sonea protested. "I had some lingering doubts, felt some unease, during the first couple of days. Takan picked up on it right away, and assured me that you would never harm me. So, no, I didn't just accept this and move on. But I soon managed to leave these fears behind. I never felt unsafe in your presence after that. Although I did make sure not to do anything that might, uh, excite you. Well, except for when my mouth was faster than my brain, like back at the palace."

"I see. Once again, I feel that you are being much kinder to me than I deserve."

"Please don't say that. The amount of restraint you've shown is remarkable. And I will forever be grateful for it. Things could have ended very differently for me."

"I was always aware of just how much power I held over you", Akkarin sighed. "Even after you were no longer my hostage, I was still your guardian, and the High Lord. While I cannot do anything to change the latter, I was determined to let you out from under my shadow before I broached the matter to you in any way or form. The last thing I wanted was for you to feel pressured."

"I really, truly appreciate your thoughtfulness", Sonea replied, squeezing his hands.

He gave her a shy smile in response.

"I do hope that you don't think I'm going along with this because I'm afraid of you or some kind of shite", she warned.

"No, I don't", he replied with a chuckle, squeezing her hands in turn. "I know you too well for that. And I don't doubt what I sensed earlier."

"Good."

They sat in silence for a while, lost in each other's eyes. Then, a thought occurred to Sonea.

"Won't people be surprised if we get married out of the blue, though? While the entire Guild is aware that we get on better these days, I doubt that any of them suspect that we are in love. I'm a bit worried that people might worry that you coerced me into this."

"That is a valid concern. However, two people are already aware of my attachment to you."

"What?", Sonea yelped. "Who? How?"

"Lorlen figured it out the day you showed him – and Rothen – your memories. After you had left – and he'd tearfully apologised for having been a horrible friend – "

"Good", Sonea muttered.

"… he demanded to know my 'intentions' toward you, proceeded to lecture me on the Guild's laws, and pointed out that I would be free to court you once you'd graduated. He quickly became enamoured with the idea of us as a couple, and has been quite insufferable ever since. When I – when I voiced doubts that you would ever reciprocate, and listed all the reasons why I shouldn't reveal my feelings to you, he quickly shot all of that down. He's been quite satisfied with our progress, and certainly shown more patience than Takan."

"Huh. So, he's known for quite a while, then. I never knew. Wait – wait. That means – the day he gave me that ointment – he knew."

"He did", Akkarin replied with a grimace. "Which is why I reacted the way I did. I had a few things to say to him about that, later. He said that it would be 'a nice bonding experience' for us."

"That conniving little ravi!", Sonea raged, surging to her feet. "I always thought that he wasn't aware of what kind of situation he put me in – his arguments made sense, and I never suspected an ulterior motive on his part – but he knew! A 'bonding experience'. I'll kill that little git."

"I'm so sorry he put you on the spot like that."

"You are not the one who ought to be sorry."

"Fair enough. Wait – the reason you always brought that cloth – was it because you knew – about me?"

"That's right", Sonea sighed as she stopped her pacing next to Akkarin. "Ordinarily, it's more effective to apply ointment with your bare hands, if possible, as it'll be easier to spread around that way. However, I thought that it might be a bad idea to test the limits of your self-control – I wasn't worried that you were going to do anything to me, mind, but, while I certainly enjoy teasing you, I wouldn't want to make you uncomfortable."

"You enjoy teasing me, do you?", Akkarin asked with a smirk, turning sideways in his chair to face her.

"I confess that I do", she replied, clasping her hands behind her back and leaning toward him. "However, there is one thing I enjoy even more."

"Do tell."

"Making you blush."

Akkarin gaped at her for a moment before his cheeks turned pink, much to Sonea's delight. He briefly glanced away, looking like he needed a moment to compose himself, before fixing her with a disapproving look.

"You enjoy making the High Lord of the Magician's Guild blush?"

"I do", she replied with a smirk.

"That is rather brazen of you."

"I thought you liked my impertinence."

"I must admit that I do. It is one of the many things about you that I find quite – irresistible."

Sonea felt a rather heady rush at hearing that, and gave him a brilliant smile. He looked surprised for a moment before smiling in return.

"So, Lorlen is unlikely to cause trouble for us", Sonea surmised as she sat down again.

"No. He'll be beside himself with joy the moment we announce the wedding. He will become infinitely more insufferable. I am not certain how I shall cope."

"We could ban him from the residence."

"That sounds like a great idea, however, I do have to meet with him for work, and make certain he eats a decent meal every now and then."

"I suppose." She reached for Akkarin, and was delighted when he placed his hand in hers. "You mentioned another person."

"Ah, yes. That would be Vinara. It took her longer to come to this realisation, however, by the time she did, she had already decided that I was the one in danger here, not you. She said that she would not interfere as long as there was nothing going on between us, and I pointed out that Lorlen was keeping an eye on the situation. I also asked her to refrain from doing anything that might make you uncomfortable, adding that you were unaware of my feelings."

"Why did she think that you were the one in danger?", Sonea asked with a frown.

"Sonea, you attempted to manipulate me right in front of her. She noticed."

"Ah."

"I don't expect her to cause us trouble, either. As long as we do nothing improper before the wedding, or your graduation, I suppose."

Sonea mulled this over. The Guild generally took a more relaxed approach to relationships before marriage than the Houses did, although she had heard of novices having dalliances with daughters from the Houses before, too. Being able to prevent a pregnancy with magic certainly made this easier.

"It's a relief that two of the Higher Magicians are aware of your attachment, at least. Although we should tell a few more people before we get married – and I'll need a witness, too."

"I would like to ask Lorlen, if that is all right with you."

"I have a feeling he would never forgive you if you asked someone else", Sonea chuckled. "I'd like to ask Rothen."

"I am not looking forward to that conversation", Akkarin muttered, a worried look on his face.

"Why? He no longer hates you."

"That may be, but I have it on good authority that he believes himself 'too young to be a grandfather', as he put it, and you too young for marriage, or even a relationship. When Donevin mentioned potential suitors, Rothen demanded their names."

"Overprotective, much?", Sonea groused. "I can do with my life as I please, thank you very much."

"Indeed, but I had better speak with him in advance. He is the closest thing to a father you have, after all, and I would hate it if he came after me assuming that I had done something to you."

"Fair enough. Although I do hope you don't intend to ask him for my hand in marriage or something like that."

"That's not how things work at the Guild. While we technically still belong to our Houses, children born at the Guild are usually more free to choose their own partners, and their families outside the Guild will usually not interfere. If you were his daughter, Rothen wouldn't tell you whom to marry."

"I would love to see anyone try and separate Narron and Trassia", Sonea muttered.

"It sounds like a futile endeavour, seeing how they already seem to have the wedding planned."

Sonea hummed. "If you're worried about Rothen, we could talk to him together", she suggested.

"I would appreciate that", Akkarin replied, sounding relieved.

"Then let's do that. Although – I think it might not be a bad idea to sort of float the idea that the nature of our relationship may have changed."

"We would have to be careful about that – even carefully circulated rumours might spin wildly out of control if the wrong people got involved."

"That is true. We shouldn't do anything too outrageous. Probably not kiss in public. But it should be fine if we hint at deeper feelings while not acting like a couple."

"I suppose. And I could make certain to invite Lorlen more often until your graduation, have him act as a 'chaperone'. Or perhaps Ambassador Savara?"

"That sounds like a great idea. I should tell her, too. She's – suspected something. Oh, but I think I know some people we could suggest a deeper attachment to."

"As for the activity – how would you feel about a race?"

"A race? As in, with horses? I didn't know you knew how to drive a carriage."

"I don't. However, I am quite a skilled horseman."

"Sounds good. You're on. I'll have the right people there."

"Excellent."

"By the way, where is Takan? I think we should put him out of his misery."

"Pacing in the kitchen."

"Oh, no. I honestly had no idea we were driving him up the wall."

"I've called him."

"Great! Oh, how should we position ourselves? I don't want him to get the wrong idea when he comes inside."

"I, uh, could wrap my arm around your shoulders?"

"That should work. Let's do that."

Akkarin and Sonea pushed the chairs back under the table before arranging themselves – with almost no giggling involved – like a loving couple. Sonea wrapped her right arm around Akkarin waist, and he slung his left arm around her shoulders.

"Try not to laugh."

"I'm not the one giggling like a little girl."

"I do not giggle like a little girl."

"Yes, you do."

"Hush, now. He's almost here."

Sonea smothered a grin as Takan turned the handle. He stopped dead when he spotted them, and breathed a sigh of relief.

"Thank goodness! I'll admit that I was a bit worried there for a second."

"I take it you are pleased with the outcome of our little chat", Sonea observed.

"Very much so."

He moved closer, and reached for her hands. Sonea let go of Akkarin, and took them.

"If I may be so bold – my lady, you are the best thing that ever happened to my master", he whispered.

Sonea was certain there were tears in his eyes.

"Oh, er, thanks."

"We have decided to get married the day of Sonea's graduation", Akkarin chimed in. "Takan, I trust you to handle all necessary preparations."

"Of course, High Lord", Takan replied with a bright grin, releasing Sonea's hands. "Consider it done."

"Thank you."

"The food must have gone cold by now", Takan observed.

"It'll still be delicious even stone-cold", Sonea assured him. "And I have my appetite back."

"That is excellent news."

They finished their meal chatting animatedly, the gloomy mood from earlier just a hazy memory. Akkarin seemed happier than Sonea had ever seen him – which shouldn't surprise her, really.

He'd probably been worried that she'd reject him.

"Sonea, could you wait for me in the sitting room? I'll be along shortly."

"Oh, sure."

She was a bit surprised by this, but figured that the sitting room might be nicer than the guestroom. The temperatures had been dropping lately, and Sonea wouldn't be too surprised if it snowed soon. Sitting in front of a fireplace would be nice.

---

Akkarin paused in the door when he spotted Sonea seated on the floor in front of the fireplace. She had one leg stretched out before her, the other bent at the knee, and was soaking up the warmth, eyes closed in bliss.

From her memories, Akkarin knew that something as simple as a roaring fire, something he had always taken for granted, had not been a normal thing for her growing up, that her family often-times had to strike a delicate balance between hunger and cold. And, while Sonea's situation had certainly improved, there were still many others who lived in such dismal conditions.

Well, at least they had drinking water now, and there would be no Purge this year. Small steps.

Akkarin roused himself, and swiftly approached her. Part of him was still doubting that this was really happening – that Sonea had agreed to becoming his wife. He had been hoping, of course, that she would grow to love him, but he had been prepared for her refusal, or for her needing more time.

This was all very sudden.

Sonea looked up when he settled down next to her, a smile on her face. Akkarin's heart skipped a beat. About half a year ago, he had been convinced that he would never deserve her smiles, had felt like an interloper the first time he'd seen her smile. The fact that she seemed to enjoy smiling at him still took him by surprise every time.

"This is all very irregular", Akkarin murmured as he tried to make himself comfortable on the carpet. "I can't fall back on what would be considered 'normal' in such a scenario, given how this evening unfolded, but – I have something for you."

He held out his hand and slowly uncurled his fingers, revealing a ring made from yellow gold, a single dark blue gem set into it.

Sonea stared at the ring, mouth agape, before lifting her eyes to his face.

"Dare I ask what kind of gem that is?"

"Blue sapphire. Rest assured that I spent no money on this – I re-purposed materials already in my possession to make this ring."

"Oh, that's a relief."

"I know that you are not fond of excessive displays of wealth", Akkarin chuckled. "May I?"

"Oh, sure."

She held out her right hand, and Akkarin carefully slid the ring onto her fourth finger. Thankfully, it fit – otherwise, he'd have to melt it down again.

"It's beautiful", Sonea breathed. "Thank you. Where did you get the materials, though?"

"My mother foisted some jewels on me so I would have something to gift my future wife with", he huffed. "None of these pieces would have looked good on you, though. They were either too big, or too gaudy. I've disassembled most of them so I could make them into something more to your tastes, and give them to you – if you want to receive them, that is. I have no intention of showering you with gems if you do not care for them."

"I'll think about it. The ring is quite lovely. Though I won't be able to wear it – people would talk."

"That is very true. You could wear it around your neck for the time being – I should have a thin chain lying around somewhere."

"That sounds like a good idea."

Sonea turned her hand this way and that, examining the gem closely, and watching it catch the firelight. She seemed quite enchanted by it, much to Akkarin's delight.

"I see that you have broken from the recently established tradition of giving me green stuff", she observed. "Is there a specific reason for that?"

"There is. Blue represents loyalty, and trust."

"You were paying attention", Sonea observed, looking up.

"Of course. I always pay attention when you say something."

"Yes, I can see that", she replied with a chuckle.

"I was taking notes, if you will – I wanted to avoid doing things that might upset you – and I was preparing to court you after your graduation. Which, I realise, I no longer have to do. Somehow, you fell in love with me without me doing anything."

"I wouldn't say that. You've done plenty – although I'll agree that none of that would count as 'courting'. But I didn't just fall in love with you on my own." She frowned, then, as though she was mulling something over. "So – what does this make us, then?"

"We are betrothed."

"And what does that mean?"

"A betrothal precedes a marriage. Since most nobles have arranged marriages, this is important for the future couple – they use this time period to get to know each other. They will spend time together, usually accompanied by a chaperone who makes certain that everything happens in accordance with the rules of propriety."

"Ah, yes, the rules of propriety, my most favourite thing ever."

Akkarin chuckled. "We obviously don't have to get to know each other. Like I said earlier, this is all very irregular."

"I suppose that the average chaperone would probably faint upon finding out just how close we already are", Sonea mused.

"Oh, certainly", Akkarin agreed. "Although I know for a fact that Lorlen wouldn't discourage any of the things we have already been doing."

"But he wouldn't approve if we took things farther."

"No, he would not. And neither would Takan. Both would immediately assume that I had somehow used this situation to my advantage, since I hold more power in this relationship, at least in theory."

"And you?"

"What about me?"

"How do you feel about this?"

Akkarin bit his lip. "Truth be told, this is all very sudden. I had expected to court you after graduation, hopefully win you over, slowly. I was entirely unprepared for the fact that you had already fallen in love with me. Furthermore – I feel that I have already messed up so many things in our relationship so far, I want to do this properly, well, as properly as I can, given the circumstances."

"I see. I am aware that I'm the more physically affectionate out of the two of us – I meant what I said about not wanting to make you uncomfortable."

"Thank you. Although I don't mind things like hugging, or cuddling."

"Great!", Sonea said cheerfully, and immediately proceeded to snuggle into his side.

Akkarin let out another chuckle, and wrapped his arm around her shoulders. Sonea made a happy sound, and leaned into him.

"I'm a bit surprised", she said after a while, "that we were able to hide our feelings from each other for so long, especially given how often we would communicate mind-to-mind."

"Indeed. I found out that it helps if you focus on something instead of trying to hide the things you don't want the other person to notice."

"Hm, I just forced myself not to think about those things. Act like they didn't even exist."

"Ah, yes, avoidance. One of your favourite tactics."

"I guess so", she replied sheepishly.

"Don't worry, I love you despite your non-confrontational nature."

"Hah! High praise from a competitive Warrior. I feel honoured."

"On that note, I fear that I might have a hard time keeping up the aloof act once we are married", Akkarin mused.

"You won't have to. Now that the Guild has Kallen and me, you can just stop. And, with the mind-reading block, you won't have to worry about letting anyone truth-read you. As long as nobody finds your notes, you'll have nothing to worry about. You could open up to people. Maybe make a few friends."

"I suppose. Although I have no idea how to do that."

"Just give it time. People might be less hesitant to approach you once they find out you're not nearly as awful as you pretend to be."

"Although they might question as to what caused this change."

"Just blame it on me. Spin it into a story of how a poor girl joined the Guild, and proceeded to thaw the High Lord's frozen heart. The ladies will love it."

"That actually sounds like a good idea", Akkarin chuckled.

"I know. It was mine."

Akkarin smiled, and rested his chin on top of her head.

After a while, he began to suspect that Sonea was getting drowsy. A quick glance at her face confirmed that her eyes were closed, and that her breathing had slowed.

Akkarin felt a rush of tenderness followed by a stab of worry.

"Sonea, please don't fall asleep on me. Regretfully, I am not allowed to undress you until after we're married."

Sonea didn't open her eyes, but pouted in a most adorable way. Noticing the turn her thoughts were taking, Akkarin smirked.

"Someone seems quite eager", he whispered, his breath ghosting the shell of her ear.

She shivered delightfully in response.

"You are a very attractive man, in case you hadn't noticed", she huffed. "And no, your scars don't diminish that one bit."

Akkarin, who had been about to protest, paused before whispering, "How did you know?"

Sonea let out a gusty sigh. "Akkarin, I know how your mind works. You're not the only one who has been pining for a while – although I haven't been pining nearly as long as you have, thankfully. But don't worry – I have every intention of showing you just how attractive I find you as soon as it would be considered appropriate."

"I look forward to that", Akkarin managed, his mouth suddenly completely dry.

"Good." Sonea blinked her eyes open, and let out a yawn. "I had better turn in, or I will fall asleep. This is cosy."

"We can do this more often, if you'd like", Akkarin offered.

"I'd love that", she replied, tilting her head back to smile up at him.

Akkarin's heart was doing little flips inside his chest.

They disentangled themselves, and rose to their feet – Akkarin had to take care not to step on his robes in the process.

"Out of curiosity – when did you start developing feelings for me?", Akkarin asked.

"Hm, it's hard to pinpoint the exact moment – let me think. I know that I certainly felt something the first time we practised with knives – although I didn't understand what it was, back then. I'd never been attracted to a man before."

Akkarin was thrilled to hear that – he knew of her short romance with Dorrien, Rothen's son, although he had not delved too deeply into that. But the fact that Sonea had felt something different for Dorrien pleased him – and reassured him.

It was almost a blessing that Dorrien seldom visited the Guild.

"Although, now that I think of it, the first time I felt something was back at the banquet", Sonea mused, her brow furrowed. "I was immensely touched by your decision not to have them announce all of your names. Ordinarily, I don't care that I don't have any, myself, but I was mortified at my Acceptance Ceremony."

"I know", Akkarin murmured. "Rothen felt the same way on your behalf."

"Poking around in my memories again, I see."

"All for a good cause."

"Hm. But that was not the only incident that night – when you came striding toward us after Chessea and I returned to the hall, that was quite something. Not that I had any idea of what was going on – but it served to reinforce the notion that I was no longer frightened of you."

"I see. That was – rather soon after, well, everything."

"I guess. Then again, can you blame me?", she asked with a grin, rising on her tiptoes.

"I suppose not", Akkarin replied, his eyes twinkling.

Sonea gave him a cheeky grin before letting out another yawn.

"Not a night owl, are you?", Akkarin teased.

"The drawback of being an early riser", Sonea sighed. "And tonight was a bit eventful. I feel exhausted, but not in a bad way."

"I understand what you mean."

He held out his hand toward her, and she took it, interlacing their fingers. Akkarin couldn't help the silly smile, nor the giddy feeling in his gut.

"If you act like this in front of other people, your fearsome reputation will be in tatters in no time", Sonea promised.

"I find that I do not care."

Sonea let out a giggle.

They took their time making their way down the corridor, and stopped in front of Sonea's door. She turned around to face him, that shy smile on her face again.

"Good night, Akkarin."

"Good night, Sonea."

He paused for a moment before brushing a curl out of her face. Then, he leaned down to touch his forehead to hers. Sonea let out a hum as her eyes slid close, enjoying the moment.

She gave him another smile, then, she was gone.

Akkarin spun on the spot and hurried into his own bedroom, where he flung himself face-down onto the mattress. He grabbed his pillow, and screamed into it, unable to contain his joy. This was the best night of his life.

---

The summons to the Administrator's office had been wholly unexpected.

Dorrien had never actually interacted with Lorlen before – the age difference was too great for them to have attended university together, and Lorlen had been elected administrator a few years after Dorrien had started his apprenticeship at the Healers' Quarters.

And, ever since Dorrien had started working in a small village near the South Pass, the everyday concerns of the Guild no longer had anything to do with him.

For the life of him, he couldn't figure out why Lorlen wanted to see him.

Unless he wished to transfer him. He'd have another thing coming if he tried that.

Dorrien decided not to expect the worst straight away as he trudged up the stairs, following the servant who had been sent to intercept him.

Lorlen was at his desk, working. He dismissed the servant and told Dorrien to take a seat in a somewhat absent-minded fashion as he continued writing. Dorrien caught the exasperated look on the face of the magician hovering behind Lorlen, and gave him a grin.

Lorlen finished the letter and waved it around to dry the ink before adding it to a stack of finished correspondence.

"Lord Osen, if you'd see to it that these are sent without delay."

"Yes, Administrator."

The assistant bowed, and quit the room. Lorlen tidied up his desk before offering Dorrien some refreshments.

"Welcome back to the Guild, Lord Dorrien. Have you seen your father yet?"

"No, I was just on my way to see if he was home. I only told him I would arrive today, but couldn't be more specific."

"I see."

"Did something happen?"

"I'm not entirely certain how to answer that", Lorlen replied with a grimace. "But you needn't worry about your father, he is well."

"Oh, well, that's a relief. I was worried he might have been hiding something from me for a second."

"No, he has not, at least not as far as I know. Although I will admit that I was hoping to speak with you before you went to see him, as he is somewhat involved in what is going on."

Lorlen paused at that point, and Dorrien tried to keep himself from jumping to conclusions. His father's involvement meant that it was unlikely that Dorrien would be transferred – as much as Rothen hated the fact that Dorrien lived so far away, he was not the kind of person to stand in the way of his child's passion. If he wanted Dorrien back at the Guild, he would tell him instead of getting the Administrator involved.

Lorlen steepled his fingers, and tapped his index fingers against each other. Dorrien did not take this to be a good sign.

"I know that you had feelings for Sonea at one point. Are you still in love with her?"

Dorrien blinked, rather taken aback by this extremely personal question.

Then, it occurred to him that Lorlen might be worried about Sonea. As the Guild's Administrator, it was his job to make certain that magicians behaved themselves.

"I always knew that her feelings for me might cool, given our less than ideal circumstances – "

"You are not answering my question."

"I guess a part of me will always love her, in some form or other", Dorrien sighed. "However – as I was about to tell you – I knew, from the beginning, that it was unlikely that we would ever wind up as a couple. Sonea had only just begun studying at the university. I hardly visit the Guild. And, even if Sonea had managed to keep the embers glowing, if you will, during my absence, she might not want the life of a country Healer. I understand that she wishes to help the people in the slums, instead, which is an admirable goal. I told Sonea that I was not expecting her to be able to keep her affection for me alive for so long, and that it would be fine if she found somebody else. And to that, I hold. I am by no means certain that I could give her what she wants or needs, and, if she were to find someone better, I would be fine with that. This may sound corny, but my understanding of love is doing what is best for someone. It's how my father raised me. I might have a good look at whoever wins Sonea's affection to make sure he knows how to treat her right, but that's it. I wouldn't meddle."

Lorlen looked somewhat alarmed, much to Dorrien's surprise.

"I would not recommend doing that", he urged. "It might end badly for you."

"Why, has she already got someone? Someone who might take offence if I did that?"

"Um, well, yes and no. It's a bit complicated. Sonea is not currently in a relationship, nor does she have her eye on anyone, as far as I know. But what I do know is that you have rivals, if you will."

"Rivals? Plural? Well, well, she's got popular, hasn't she."

His rather nonchalant response seemed to throw Lorlen, who blinked at him in a somewhat confused manner, before letting out a huff.

"I know of three people – all of them magicians – which is why none of them have approached Sonea yet, I guess. However, I expect one of them to make a move as soon as she has graduated. I just wanted you to know that so that you wouldn't be surprised. Which is also why I asked you that rather personal question earlier. I apologise if I put you on the spot, but – well, I couldn't find another method to warn you, or find out if the warning was necessary."

"I see. While I don't like people poking their noses in my business, Sonea is still a novice. I thought you were going to lecture me, Administrator."

"Understandable", Lorlen replied with a grimace.

"I'm curious, though – who is it?"

"I promised to keep quiet as long as he behaved himself", Lorlen replied apologetically.

"And the others? Did they ask you to make such a promise to them, as well?"

"I haven't discussed the matter with them – neither are as close with Sonea as the first one, and I found out about their attachment to her in a rather roundabout way."

"So – their chances of success are lesser, then?"

"I'd imagine so, although it is, ultimately, up to Sonea. I don't know her well enough to be able to guess her feelings. But, as I said, I've seen no indication that she is partial to anyone."

"Hm. So, who are they, then?"

"The first one would be Osen."

"Your assistant? I'd have never guessed."

"Hm, he was rather subtle about it. Unfortunately for him, he was less subtle about his dislike of the High Lord for taking Sonea away from your father, and this prompted Akkarin to go digging. It was he who informed me of Osen's feelings for Sonea."

"And – he hasn't done anything to warn him off?", Dorrien asked with a frown.

"No – instead, he warned him not to rouse your father's wrath."

"What?! You're joking. My father is the most mellow magician I have ever met. He doesn't even know the meaning of 'wrath'."

"Oh, you should have seen him when Lord Donevin mentioned several young men pining after Sonea", Lorlen chuckled. "He almost threw a fit. Demanded their names, and all that."

"A bit overly dramatic, if you ask me", Dorrien huffed.

"That's what I said", Lorlen chuckled. "However, it seems that Osen was sufficiently cowed by that."

"Hilarious. And who is the third?"

"Lord Yikmo."

"Who is that?", Dorrien asked with a frown.

"A Vindo. Sonea's Warrior Skills tutor."

"One of her teachers?! Is it safe for her to be around him, then?"

"Don't worry, he makes regular reports to the High Lord – who was also the one to figure out what was going on. Besides, Sonea is more than capable of looking after herself. If Yikmo ever did anything she disagreed with, she could, very easily, wipe the floor with him."

"Well, that's a relief. Things can become tricky if a teacher has his eye on one of his students."

"I'm aware, but you needn't worry on that front. Sonea has no issues telling Akkarin what's on her mind. Incidentally, he's finally started taking a hand in her training, and has taught her all sorts of things. Intimation tactics, for one. She's become quite formidable under his tutelage."

"I think she always had the potential to be formidable", Dorrien mused. "She was just holding herself back by being too kind to people who didn't deserve it."

"The High Lord would agree with you. And he's made certain to rid her of such inhibitions."

"I see. I guess I should thank him for that."

"It is his duty as her guardian to ensure that she reaches her potential", Lorlen pointed out. "He'd have made a terrible guardian if he'd neglected her after transferring her guardianship."

"I suppose. But – this means Sonea might have three men chasing after her as soon as she graduates, if she's extremely unlucky", Dorrien huffed.

"She'll be spending most of her time at the Healers' Quarters, and none of the men have any business being there ordinarily. At best, they could get to her in the Night Room – where there would be other people to 'supervise' – or on Freedays. Although I have no idea how things will progress with any of them once she graduates."

"I see. I just hope they won't wind up overwhelming her."

"I am keeping an eye on the situation, as much as I can, and I could ask Vinara to do the same. She's been dying to finally get her hands on Sonea – she won't let anyone mess that up."

Dorrien let out a hearty laugh at the mental image of Vinara fending off love-crazed magicians with a broomstick, yelling at them to leave her new Healer alone.

"I am glad to see that you seem rather – relaxed about this", Lorlen observed with a smile. "I was a bit worried, I will admit."

"Sonea's safety and well-being are what matters here. Like I said, I gave up long ago. It would be foolish and cruel of me to expect her to carter to my needs."

"I see. Well, that was all – although I would ask you to keep the nature of our conversation a secret. Do not mention any of this to your father, either – about half a year ago, he believed himself too young to be a grandfather. I doubt he would take it well if he found out that someone intends to start courting Sonea as soon as she graduates."

"I understand. I do expect you to keep me informed, Administrator, if this matter doesn't resolve itself while I am still here."

"I'll see if I can find a way", Lorlen replied with a wry smile. "Now, then, don't let me keep you."

"Wait", Dorrien said as a thought occurred to him. "You didn't just tell me all that about that mystery magician to send me on a wild harrel chase so that I wouldn't figure out it was you?"

Lorlen gave him an utterly perplexed look before letting out a huff.

"I am married to my job. I don't have time for a wife."

"Fair enough."

"Now, enough of your cheek, young man. Go bother your father, he must have missed that."

"Yes, Administrator. Have a nice day", Dorrien chuckled.

He rose, bowed, and left.

He shouldn't be surprised that men were interested in Sonea – she certainly deserved it – but he did wonder about the mystery magician, the one who had asked Lorlen to keep silent. Who might it be? If Lorlen believed that his chances were better than the others', he had to be someone Sonea was closer with.

Dorrien would have to find out if she'd got closer with anyone since the last time he'd seen her.

As if on cue, Dorrien spotted Sonea in the square, walking arm-in-arm with a woman who had to be the Sachakan ambassador. They had their heads close together and were laughing and tittering, something Dorrien had never expected to see Sonea do – then again, he had never seen her interact with friends before since she didn't use to have any. Her being on such good terms with another person was delightful, really.

"Sonea!", Dorrien called.

She looked up, and a smile lit up her face. Dorrien felt a stirring of something – the echo of a half-forgotten emotion – and quickly banished it.

Sonea tugged on her companion's arm and made her way over to him.

"I didn't know you were coming!"

"Did my father neglect to tell you?"

"It might have slipped his mind. There's been a lot going on."

"I say."

His gaze slid to Savara, who was eyeing him curiously, and Sonea took the hint.

"Ambassador Savara, this is Lord Dorrien, Rothen's son. Dorrien, this is Ambassador Savara."

Dorrien bowed while Savara placed her free hand over her heart.

"Honoured to meet you, Ambassador."

"Likewise. I've heard about you."

"Oh, have you? I'm flattered. I didn't know I was someone that important."

"Lady Vinara mentioned you", Savara replied with a chuckle.

"Ah, I see. Well, Sonea, did anything interesting happen while I was away? Apart from the boring, official stuff, that is. I already know all about that."

"Well, you could say that… Where to start? Oh! I made friends! Four of them – not counting Savara here because she practically adopted me. As a sister."

"Congratulations", Dorrien replied with a grin. "Who are those lucky people?"

"The first one was Donevin – do you know him?"

"Can't say that I do."

"Huh. He's about my age, I think, and a Warrior."

Dorrien let out a whistle. "What did you do to win over a Warrior?"

"I lost against the High Lord in a training fight."

"That must have been quite a spectacular loss."

"People seemed rather impressed with how long I lasted."

"Well, I can see how that would impress one of those competitive hotheads", Dorrien replied, rolling his eyes.

"Oh, but you know what's the best part? Donevin is Regin's nephew."

"What?!"

"I know, right? He made it very clear from the start he had manners, though."

Savara let out a snort. Dorrien shook his head.

"I'm sure that must have made for some interesting family dynamics", he mused.

"Oh, for sure. Donevin wasn't pulling any punches."

"Well, it's good to see that at least one member of that family knows how to behave himself", he huffed. "So, then, who are your other friends?"

"The next one I made was Chessea of Velan."

"That's the High Lord's House, isn't it."

"Yes, Chessea is one of his sisters. She's amazing. And she's been a great help. She's also one of the few people who are not terrified of the High Lord", she added with a grin.

"Goodness. I get a feeling she must be terrifying in her own right."

"Oh, she most certainly is", Savara chimed in. "You had better not get on her bad side."

"The last two friends I made are Narron and Trassia from my class. They figured out that Regin had planted Narron's pen in my box, and seemed rather disgusted with him. I've really enjoyed spending time with them, they've taught me a lot about horses."

"I see. I'm glad that more people are finally starting to look past their prejudice. Anyone who doesn't realise what a wonderful person you are is an idiot."

"Heh, the High Lord said pretty much the same thing a while back."

"A man of sense. I like that."

"Why, thank you", a deep voice sounded from behind Dorrien. "I feel honoured to have received such a compliment."

Dorrien very nearly jumped out of his skin. Sonea's gaze snapped to someone behind him, and she narrowed her eyes. Dorrien spun around to see the tall shape of the High Lord detach itself from the shadows. Trying to get his heart rate back under control, Dorrien somehow managed a bow.

"Seriously", Sone hissed. "Stop doing that. How long were you lurking there?"

"Not that long", Akkarin replied dismissively as he descended the stairs.

"Creep."

The ghost of a smile appeared on Akkarin's face, and Dorrien decided that this was not his day. He knew even less about the High Lord than he did about the Administrator, and the former was infinitely more terrifying than the latter.

And yet, Sonea didn't seem to care in the slightest.

"I've just informed Lorlen that he is expected to eat with us tonight", Akkarin told Sonea.

"Oh, good, that'll give me a good opportunity to kill him", she replied, cracking her knuckles.

"What did Lorlen do this time?", Savara asked.

"I'll tell you later."

"I will amend the menu to allow for some murder on the side", Akkarin announced.

"You two are awful", Savara groaned. "How does poor Takan stand living with you?"

"He bears his lot with great patience and fortitude", Akkarin replied solemnly.

"Goodness. I acutely fear for the future of the Guild with both of you at the helm."

"Oi, it's not like we can just do whatever we want!", Sonea protested.

"Ah, but if you kill Lorlen, there will be no-one left to stop me from killing the next fool who insults you", Akkarin pointed out.

"Very true. Perhaps we could ask Lady Vinara to become your new conscience?"

"She likes you too much."

"Lord Telano, then?"

"Too terrified of me."

"Oh."

Felling utterly lost, Dorrien shot Savara a beseeching look.

"I'm afraid these two are always like this", Savara replied with a chuckle. "Better get used to it."

"Savara, do you know how to get rid of a body?", Sonea asked innocently.

"I am insulted that you would ask me such a thing. Of course I know how to get rid of a body."

"And you say I'm awful", Akkarin observed, crossing his arms.

"I guess we're all awful people", Sonea concluded. "Dorrien, I think you had better leave. Your father would never forgive me if we wound up corrupting you."

Dorrien chuckled. "I don't think there's a high chance of that happening."

A gong rang out, and Sonea cursed, much to Dorrien's amusement.

"I gotta go, or I'll be late for my next class."

"Can't keep your favourite teacher waiting?", Akkarin teased.

"Nope. That would be an outrage. Savara, I'll swing by your rooms on my way home."

"I can't wait to hear all the juicy details", Savara replied with a grin, wagging her eyebrows.

"There are no juicy details", Sonea groaned.

Savara looked like she wasn't buying that.

"Dorrien, please give my regards to Rothen."

"I will. Do you think you'd have time to eat with both of us sometime this week?"

"I think so. I'll let you know."

She gave them a wave before dashing up the stairs, and hurrying inside.

"Her favourite teacher?", Dorrien asked no-one in particular.

"Lord Larkin", Akkarin supplied.

"What? But doesn't he teach history?", he asked, whipping his head around to lock eyes with Akkarin.

"I don't think the subject itself factors."

"Then, why?"

"Winning Sonea's favour is easy – just don't treat her like a piece of filth."

"Ah. I see. Makes sense", Dorrien grimaced. "Are the other magicians still causing her trouble?"

"They all had the sense to back off after she wiped the floor with Regin", Akkarin replied. "And Regin himself seems to have grown a conscience – or perhaps his nephew got to him. He apologised to Sonea."

"He did? Wow. Never thought I'd see the day."

"Hm. Sonea hasn't forgiven him yet – but they are currently improving their relationship. I'm not certain it can be considered friendship, but they are on amicable terms."

"Sonea didn't list him among her newly acquired friends earlier."

"Seriously, this Regin sounds like a real piece of work", Savara grumbled.

"Ah, but you should have seen her performance in the Arena that day", Dorrien chuckled. "She was magnificent. It was my idea, you know – I told her to challenge him. Make it as public as possible."

"My, my, not what I would have expected from a Healer."

"So you were the one who put her up to that. I had wondered about that", Akkarin mused. "I always thought that it was a rather unusual move for her."

"I planted the idea, and explained the rules to her – and that her powers wouldn't be restricted", Dorrien replied, his eyes shining. "She was reluctant at first, certain that the rewards didn't outweigh the risks."

"Do you know what changed her mind?"

"I never asked."

"Hm."

"I hope you were not displeased by my interference, High Lord", Dorrien ventured.

"No. The outcome was more than satisfactory. Although – had Sonea bothered to consult me, I would have advised her to wait."

"She's waited more than long enough in my opinion", Dorrien huffed. "I'd have put Regin in his place much sooner."

"I suppose that is a matter of perspective."

"How long ago was that?", Savara asked with a frown.

"About one-and-a-half years ago", Akkarin replied.

"Ah, that was before you were on speaking terms, then."

"Indeed."

"While we're on the topic – Sonea told me what happened yesterday."

"And?"

"And – nothing. I already discussed the matter with her at length, and I trust her judgement."

"I see."

"Is there a reason you two are speaking in riddles, High Lord, Ambassador?"

"There is."

"Be patient", Savara added with a wink. "You'll find out soon enough. Soon."

Dorrien resisted the urge to pout – or to resort to his charms to get the answer from Savara. He might have tried both if the High Lord weren't here.

His father had often remarked that Dorrien could charm the wool off a reber if he wanted to.

"I see. I guess it can't be helped. Well, then, I suppose I had best look for my father. It's been far too long since I've seen him. Good day, High Lord, Ambassador."

Dorrien bowed to them, and hurried across the square toward the Magicians' Quarters.

---

Lorlen was surprised to find neither Akkarin nor Sonea waiting for him in the guestroom. However, Takan was there, looking uncharacteristically giddy.

"Administrator, thank goodness you're here, I thought I might explode."

"Takan, did something happen?"

"Yes! Finally! I thought they would never get on with it!"

"Akkarin proposed? Before Sonea's graduation?"

"Well, not quite – I, uh, might have prompted them to finally act on their obvious mutual feelings by mentioning that getting married might solve all of their problems", Takan admitted.

"And?"

"They're getting married on the day of Sonea's graduation."

Lorlen let out a squeal and spun in a circle out of sheer excitement. Takan gave him a bright grin.

"I am so glad they finally resolved this, it was getting painful to watch them pine after one another", he admitted.

"I guess I should go and congratulate them. Where are they?"

"In the sitting room, cuddling in front of the fireplace."

"Aw. How cute. Don't tell him I said that. I like being alive."

"Of course, Administrator."

Lorlen hurried up the stairs, feeling giddy with excitement. Finally! He ought to tell Akkarin to give Takan a raise.

"I hear congratulations are finally in order!", he called by way of greeting.

True to Takan's word, Akkarin and Sonea were sitting on the floor in front of the fireplace, snuggled up against each other.

"I see Takan couldn't wait to share the news", Akkarin observed.

"Oh, you weren't spying on him?"

"I am a little too preoccupied to do some spying on the side."

"Hm, I can see that", Lorlen replied, moving closer. "Akkarin, I hope you will continue to behave yourself until the wedding."

"Why do people not realise I'm the one in danger? Sonea is much more likely to jump me."

Lorlen shot Sonea a disbelieving look. She looked a little sheepish as she blushed.

"He's attractive and handsome", she grumbled. "Can you blame me?"

"I was not expecting that", Lorlen admitted.

"What can I say? I'm full of surprises."

"I can see that", he replied as he settled down on the floor. "Is this a new thing you two do?"

"It's cosy", Sonea replied. "I like it up here. And we're less likely to be surprised by unannounced visitors."

"Right. Oh, did Akkarin give you that ring? I don't remember seeing you wear it before."

"Yes, look!", Sonea replied, her eyes lighting up as she extended her hand.

"Lovely. He has surprisingly good taste."

"I know, right?"

"Sonea, I seem to remember that you had a bone to pick with Lorlen."

"Ah, yes, thanks for reminding me."

"Wait, what? What did I do?"

"Remember the ointment?", Sonea asked in a pointed manner.

"Oh."

"You gave me that knowing fully well that Akkarin found me attractive. You told me to apply ointment onto the skin of a man who is attracted to me. What were you thinking?! I assumed that you didn't know, that you were just trying to be helpful!"

"Well, I was trying to be helpful! I thought it might help you get closer."

"I knew."

"Knew what?"

"That he was attracted to me."

"Oh. Wait. How?"

"I figured it out immediately after the attack. Do you have any idea how that whole situation made me feel, back then, or when I found out that this hadn't been a coincidence – that you had done this knowing full well what was going on? Minus the part of me knowing, obviously."

"I'm sorry", Lorlen whispered. "I never meant to cause you any kind of distress. If I'd known that you were aware of Akkarin's feelings, I wouldn't have done this."

"Seriously. You meddle far too much. Please stop it before you cause a catastrophe."

"I will. I promise. No more meddling. You have my word."

"Good."

Seemingly mollified, Sonea leaned back into Akkarin's embrace.

"Are you done scolding Lorlen?"

"I've made my point."

"Good. Lorlen, I wanted to ask you to be my witness."

"Gladly, Akkarin. Who are you going to ask, Sonea?"

"Rothen."

"I still dread that conversation", Akkarin muttered.

"Do you need backup?", Lorlen asked.

"I thank you for the offer, but it would seem rather strange if I showed up with my best friend in tow. Sonea has volunteered to come along. We still need to plan our precise approach, though."

"It has to be an evening where Dorrien isn't there, as well, or we'd have to kick him out."

"I'm certain he will want to spend some time with his friends from his university days, or the ones he made at the Healers' Quarters", Lorlen reminded her. "And I am convinced that Rothen wouldn't mind having you over twice a week."

"Good point."

Takan appeared to inform them that the meal was ready. Lorlen rose to his feet and extended a hand toward Sonea to help her up. Sonea, in turn, helped Akkarin get to his feet, and the two of them interlaced their fingers as they filed out of the door.

Lorlen grinned at their backs. These two were seriously cute together.

However, the happy feeling dissipated abruptly when they reached the dining room, and Lorlen saw how the places had been set. Before, whenever he had been eating with Akkarin, he had been seated on his right – which made sense as they had been the only people present. Now, however, there was a place set closer to the middle of the table, in between Akkarin's chair – and the one right across from him, where another place had been set.

Lorlen blinked. He would have expected Takan to set two places on Akkarin's right and left, respectively, not – this. What was even more confusing was that Sonea moved to the place across from Akkarin like she'd done this a thousand times before.

Lorlen was far too flabbergasted to be able to make sense of this, and sat down in the chair that, by process of elimination, had to be his. As soon as Takan had left, he turned to Sonea.

"Why are you sitting there?"

"Because I always sit here?", Sonea replied, confused.

Lorlen gaped at her before whipping his head around to pin Akkarin with an accusing glare. His friend, for his part, looked like he wanted to die, or vanish, or fly into a panic. Or maybe a combination of these.

"I swear I had no ulterior motives", he blurted out in a hurried manner. "I placed her over there because it's the seat that's farthest away from me, and because it's easier to talk to someone across from you. That's all. I swear."

Lorlen paused. It wasn't complete nonsense, but, still –

"Could someone explain what's going on here?", Sonea interjected. "What's wrong with my seat?"

"You don't know?", Lorlen asked, surprised.

"Obviously", she retorted, rolling her eyes.

"Oh. Well, you see, the seat across from the master of the house is reserved for his wife. If he doesn't have a wife, the seat is usually left empty."

"Oh", Sonea whispered, her eyes widening.

"This is why I tried to avoid having people eat here with the both of us", Akkarin groaned. "I wanted to avoid people jumping to the wrong conclusions."

Lorlen and Sonea exchanged a glance.

"I think he's telling the truth", Sonea said. "I can't figure out a reason why he'd lie about this."

"Hm, yes. Especially since you didn't know. The only motive that comes to mind would be to send a message to someone else, but if you never had any guests – "

"Chessea ate with us, once", Sonea whispered, paling.

"Calm down, she arrived at the correct conclusion", Akkarin assured her. "And if she hadn't, I would have set her straight. She was certainly surprised, but had the sense not to say anything in front of you. And she knows me too well to suspect me of having ulterior motives, or planning anything dishonourable."

"I see. That's a relief."

"Indeed", Lorlen agreed.

"And I suppose it's good I found out about this now rather than later. It would have been bad if I'd figured this out at a formal meal somewhere else. Still. Akkarin, I would prefer it if you either stopped doing things like this, or were honest about them."

"Duly noted."

Takan brought in the meal, then, ending their argument. Lorlen decided to focus on enjoying the food – Takan's cooking truly was in a class of its own.

He observed Sonea and Akkarin throughout the meal, and found that their behaviour hadn't changed much. Although they seemed much less hesitant to tease each other than previously.

Lorlen was profoundly glad that they were finally on the same page – and, if they got married the day of Sonea's graduation, this meant that she wouldn't have to move temporarily into the Magicians' Quarters. That would have only caused an unnecessary hassle both for Sonea, and the servants. All in all, Lorlen felt that this was the best possible outcome.

---

"I can't believe this", Trassia fumed. "She tells us to be as punctual as we can be, and then has the gall to be late herself? The nerve."

"Wait, I think I hear footsteps", Narron replied, turning. "Ah, there she is. Sonea! You certainly took your sweet time – "

He broke off in mid-sentence with a small gasp. Somewhat worried, Trassia peeked past his broad shoulders – and felt her blood turn to ice. The High Lord was trailing behind Sonea like some kind of oversized shadow.

Remembering her manners, Trassia straightened her back, marched out from behind Narron, and bowed while elbowing him in the ribs. Narron grunted before sketching a quick bow himself.

"Sorry about being late", Sonea said with a sheepish smile. "We got held up."

"I misplaced my riding gloves", Akkarin added. "Apologies for the delay."

"Um", said Trassia. "Sure."

"We weren't expecting to see you, High Lord", Narron hedged.

Akkarin took the hint, thankfully. "Sonea and I decided that we would like to race. We need people to oversee the race, and Sonea immediately thought of you two."

"Oh, ah, we'd gladly help out", Narron replied, still sounding somewhat dumbstruck.

Trassia could emphasise with that. She'd only seen the High Lord twice before – the day of her Acceptance Ceremony, and the day Sonea had fought Regin. She'd heard stories of people running into him in the oddest places, that he had a habit of popping up unexpectedly somewhere inside the university, but thankfully, she'd never had the misfortune of running into him like that.

While she had always known, objectively, that he was a good catch, subjectively, he was extremely intimidating.

"Thanks!", Sonea replied with a brilliant smile.

"Indeed, thank you", the High Lord added, his lips twisting into the barest of smirks. "Sonea, do you need help with the horses?", he asked, bending down to whisper into her ear.

Trassia's eyes went wide as saucers while Sonea turned crimson.

"N-no, I'll be fine by myself, thanks", she squeaked.

"Very well", he replied, now smirking outright.

He straightened and brushed past her, practically gliding down the stable aisle. Trassia waited until he was gone before rounding on Sonea.

"Now, if you still insist that he's not interested, I shall call you a liar."

"You were right, and you were also wrong", Sonea sighed as she pressed the back of her fingers against her overheated skin. "Yes, he's been interested in me for a while now, but no, the book wasn't a courting gift. We, uh, kinda skipped the courting part. Or did it without noticing. I'm not entirely sure."

"What."

"So, when is the wedding, then?", Narron asked with a grin.

"Graduation day."

"Wow, you're certainly not wasting any time", he replied with a whistle.

"I don't want to have to move out only to have to move back in!"

"Fair enough."

"What do you mean, you skipped the courting part?", Trassia demanded.

"Neither of us were consciously flirting with the other, although, looking back, I think we started flirting with each other a while back. However, Akkarin had been determined to wait until after my graduation, both for propriety's sake, and because he wanted to avoid pressuring me in any way or form."

"Oh, Akkarin, eh?", Trassia crooned, wagging her eyebrows.

"Shut up", Sonea groused, rolling her eyes. "Unfortunately, our servant got fed up with the lack of progress, and spurred things into motion. And now here we are."

"You're letting us know on purpose", Narron breathed.

"That's right. A few people already know, but to the majority of the Guild, this'll come as a surprise. And it would seem strange if my friends didn't know about this at all. I must ask you to keep quiet about it for now, though, or it could cause both of us trouble. Even if Regin were to behave himself."

"Understood", Narron replied. "We won't say a word."

"That would be suicide considering the High Lord himself is involved", Trassia added. "I wouldn't want to have him as an enemy."

"No, you wouldn't, trust me. I've seen what he's like when he gets angry."

"Still, I am truly happy for you, Sonea. You deserve this."

"Oh, um, thanks."

"Now, enough chatting, ladies. I'd imagine the High Lord must be done brushing his horse by now. Why don't we get started on Zeldra and Linken?"

"Good idea", Sonea replied.

Between the three of them, they were done quickly. Sonea was just leading Zeldra outside when Akkarin joined them.

"Seriously?", Sonea griped. "A black horse?"

"I've had her since I was young", Akkarin huffed. "I did not know that I would be elected high lord one day."

Trassia let out a chuckle.

Zeldra and Akkarin's mare were busy sniffing each other. The next moment, both of them pinned their ears back, and Zeldra shrieked.

"Oi, behave yourself!", Sonea scolded. "You don't have to pick a fight with every other horse you meet."

"Back up, girl", Akkarin said, tugging on the reins and walking backwards. "No, don't start that argument again. You will lose. We have been over this countless times."

"Mares, I swear", Narron muttered.

Trassia hummed in agreement.

They hooked up Zeldra and Linken to the curricle, and Sonea grabbed hold of the bridles to lead the horses outside.

"Why did you do that, earlier?", she asked Akkarin in an annoyed tone. "It was entirely unnecessary."

"You are not the only one who enjoys making the other blush", Akkarin replied with a smirk.

"Remind me again why I agreed to marry you?"

"I hear it is because you love me."

"I may have to reconsider that."

"Please don't. It would break Takan's heart."

"Stop using Takan as an excuse for everything!"

"I speak nothing but the truth."

"You're awful."

"Admit it, it's why you like me."

"No. I like you because you are tall."

"I can live with that", he chuckled.

Sonea made an angry sound.

"Were we like this, too, after we became a couple?", Narron whispered.

"No way. We were not as bad as that."

"I would tell them to get a room, but – they already live together, so, maybe not."

"And we are supposed to keep up appearances, too. Oh, I hope none of the stable hands heard us. We may have to bribe all of them."

"Indeed."

Narron threw up a shield around them as they stepped outside. Sonea and Akkarin had ceased their bickering/flirting, and were discussing how far they would like to race.

"How about up to the cemetery?", Akkarin asked.

"Sounds good."

"I volunteer to go to the finish line", Narron said, lifting a hand.

"I could give you a ride up there", Sonea offered.

"Thanks."

Sonea and Narron climbed into the curricle while Akkarin swung himself into the saddle with practised ease. He proceeded to loop large circles in front of the stable while the curricle disappeared into the woods.

Not wanting to freeze, Trassia created a shield of her own. The clouds overhead were almost white, and the smell of snow was in the air. Perhaps, if she was lucky, there'd be snow on her wedding day – their wedding day, really, since Sonea was getting married the same day.

Trassia let out a squeal. She was so happy for her friend, although part of her still couldn't believe that this was really happening.

The High Lord had, apparently, heard her, and shot her an amused look.

Honestly, Sonea, I cannot blame you one bit. Oh, all those ladies will be furious. This will be good.

"They won't say anything if they know what's good for them", Akkarin observed conversationally as he halted his horse next to her.

Trassia let out a small sound of alarm. "Do you make a habit of reading other people's thoughts like that, High Lord?"

"No. But sometimes, they just beg for my attention."

"Oh, I see. Well, it is good to know that you are willing to defend Sonea against these vultures."

"Hm, I certainly will, should she need it. Although I believe her capable of defending herself. And, of course, there is also the King to consider. The last fool who decided to try her luck is still suffering the fallout."

"Oh, my. Ah, some people have to learn things the hard way."

"Indeed."

The sound of hoof beats heralded the return of Sonea and her trusted horses. She turned the curricle around and halted next to them.

"We've cleared the road of any potentially hazardous things, it should be safe for us to race now."

"Very well. Are you ready to lose?"

Sonea let out a huff. "Is the reason you're doing this because you've had enough of me kicking your arse at the Arena every time we practise with knives?"

"Sonea!", Trassia gasped. "Language!"

Akkarin chuckled. "Not at all. Powerful and skilled women have a certain allure, one I find quite captivating."

Sonea blushed.

"Oh, enough already!", Trassia complained. "You two are awful. If I may be so bold, High Lord."

"Oh, we know. We have had complaints from two other people who had the misfortune of being around us."

"Let's put poor Trassia out of her misery, and get on with the racing", Sonea suggested.

"Yes, let's."

"All right. I'll mark the starting line", Trassia said. "Take off on my mark."

Akkarin and Sonea got their horses into position. Akkarin's eyes were alight while Sonea looked like she was concentrating very hard.

The horses sensed the mood of their humans, and became restless and high-strung themselves.

"Ready, set, go!"

Sonea and Akkarin spurred their horses into motion. Akkarin had a small head start as his horse had been able to accelerate more quickly, but Sonea was not about to take that lying down, urging Zeldra and Linken to go faster.

Trassia watched them disappear into the forest with a smile. As soon as they were gone from sight, she turned away and started back toward the stable to see if anyone was in need of some bribing.

---

Rothen always enjoyed having Sonea over for a meal. Ever since Akkarin had given them permission to spend time with each other again, Rothen had tried to host her at least once a week. Thankfully, the people around him – Yaldin and Ezrille in particular – had just taken this change in stride, and come up with their own explanations. Rothen and Sonea had neither confirmed nor denied anything, as it was unlikely that anyone would ever guess the truth.

Part of him was still angry with Akkarin for the time they had lost, even if Rothen had forgiven him in light of what he had learned. It was harder for him to let things go than for Sonea. He supposed that having one's life saved by the supposed villain helped with forgiving said "villain".

These days, he was determined to make the most of it. Incidentally, this was the second time he had Sonea over this week – they'd eaten together with Dorrien at the earliest opportunity. At this point, Rothen was convinced that things between them would not progress any further, but he was pleased to see that they were able to interact with each other without any lingering feelings.

Rothen and Sonea had just started eating dessert when a knock sounded on the door. Rothen paused eating, confused – he was not expecting anyone, Dorrien had said he would not come back tonight but return straight to his room in the Healers' Quarters – and it was a bit late for social calls.

Tania went to open the door, and let out a terrified squeak before seeming to remember her manners.

"Good evening, High Lord", she managed in a rather breathless voice, bowing.

"Good evening, Tania."

"Oh, um, please come inside."

"High Lord", Rothen said, rising to his feet and bowing. "This is rather unexpected."

Unbidden, memories rose of the last time Akkarin had paid him a visit. He had demanded that Rothen send for Sonea while refusing to explain the reason for his visit. When he'd mentioned rumours, Rothen had assumed that he was referring to the rumour Regin had spread about himself and Sonea, however, Akkarin had been quick to point out that this was concerning his nocturnal activities.

He'd told them that he had just read Lorlen's mind, and that he wanted to know if they had told anyone else. Rothen and Sonea had denied this, but Akkarin had not been satisfied by that. He had made it clear he wished to read Rothen's mind. When he had asked what Akkarin would do if he refused, Akkarin had coldly replied that he'd take whatever measures he forced him to take to get what he wanted.

At that moment, Rothen had realised that it would be futile to resist. Not even Sonea would be strong enough to stop Akkarin – Rothen himself had never stood a chance.

Akkarin's interrogation had been relentless, and Rothen had been unable to respond to the questions posed with anything but utter honesty. He had been surprised that he had been unable to sense anything from Akkarin – no sense of personality, no emotions, nothing. He had been nothing but an intangible presence digging through his mind.

Rothen had not been prepared for Akkarin to demand to read Sonea's mind next. He'd tried his best to shield her, but Akkarin had been insistent. In the end, he'd had his way.

Rothen forced his mind back to the present, unwilling to re-live that part of the memory. Despite knowing that he had been outmatched, he had hated the fact that he had been unable to protect Sonea.

"I apologise for disturbing you at such a late hour, and during your meal, no less. I, uh, could come back later?"

"No, no, it's fine. I assume that this is important."

"Well, yes, it is. I was wondering if I could have a word."

His gaze slid to Tania, and Rothen understood.

"That will be all for now, Tania."

"Yes, my lord."

Tania bowed, and quit the room.

Akkarin proceeded to stand there for a few moments as though trying to figure out how to proceed before surprising Rothen by sitting down next to Sonea – who, strangely enough, hadn't even asked if she was supposed to leave, as well.

Somewhat befuddled, Rothen retook his seat.

When they exchanged a look, Rothen sensed danger.

"Oh, no", he said, startling them. "I know that look. Either you did something – or you will do something – and I'm not going to like it."

Rothen would have laughed at the near-panicked look on Akkarin's face – he had never thought he'd ever see the unruffled High Lord like this – if Sonea wasn't somehow involved in this, too. While not nearly as panicked as Akkarin, she looked mildly alarmed.

"What do we do?", Sonea asked in a loud whisper.

"I have no idea. I have never done anything like this before, if this helps."

"It doesn't."

"Ah."

Rothen mentally braced himself. The fact that he had been correct didn't exactly please him. What on earth had these two got themselves into? Rothen would help in any way he could, naturally, but, still…

Akkarin took a fortifying breath, visibly attempting to rally himself. Sonea fixed her attention on Rothen.

"I have – no, that's not right. We have decided to get married."

Rothen blinked rapidly a few times as he replayed Akkarin's words in his mind. Then, he proceeded to stare at them for a full minute until his brain had untangled itself to the point where he was able to formulate a response.

"This is rather unexpected", he observed in the calmest voice he could muster.

"Well, we were trying to hide it from everyone", Sonea grimaced. "Including each other."

"Why?", Rothen asked with a frown.

"Well, for starters, I thought that he would never reciprocate. And Akkarin wanted to do the responsible thing and wait until after my graduation."

"Oh, I see. Then what prompted you to propose to Sonea earlier, High Lord?"

"I didn't."

"Excuse me?"

"I didn't propose to her."

"Takan did", Sonea clarified. "For both of us. He sort of forced our hands there. I'm still not sure how he figured out that I love Akkarin, but – he didn't realise we hadn't realised the feeling was mutual, and suggested that we could get married."

"That came as a bit of a shock", Akkarin added with a wry smile.

Rothen took a moment to process this.

"So, if it hadn't been for Takan's interference, you would have stuck to your original plan."

"Indeed. Although that would have necessitated that Sonea move out of the residence upon her graduation. The fact that we have already resolved everything means we can forestall this."

"You intend to get married immediately after Sonea's graduation", Rothen realised.

"We do."

Rothen leaned back in his chair, his breath leaving him in a rush. Sonea shot him a worried look.

"I'm fine", he assured her. "I need to think."

"Of course", she replied with a grimace. "We didn't mean to blind-side you with this, but, well…"

Rothen nodded to indicate his understanding. It was a complicated, delicate situation.

He was keenly aware of the fact that his reaction to this might well drive a wedge between himself and Sonea. She seemed determined to see this through, claimed to love Akkarin. While Rothen had never detected anything hinting at the fact that she felt that way about her current guardian, he had seen how their relationship had changed, how Akkarin had risen in her regard. She'd often spoken fondly of him, a very peculiar look on her face.

How long has she loved him? And how long has she been aware of it?

If Rothen decided to be obstinate about this, even out of concern, Sonea would not take it well.

And Akkarin looked like someone about to face judgement. While certainly not a young man any more, Rothen realised, at this moment, that he was, in fact, old enough to be Akkarin's father. Which would explain his nervousness – he was currently viewing Rothen as a figure of authority.

Well, Rothen had been prepared to have this conversation with Sonea at one point. Just under different circumstances.

He leaned forward again and fixed both of them with a direct, but (hopefully) non-threatening look.

"Are you both certain that this is what you want? Are you aware of what it is that you would commit yourselves to, and all the consequences this may have?"

They answered in the affirmative almost without missing a beat.

"Well, then, I have nothing further to say. If you would like my blessing, you have it, wholeheartedly."

Sonea let out a squeal, and launched herself at him, knocking over her chair – and almost sending his plate to the ground – in the process.

"Careful, Sonea", Rothen chuckled. "Although I am pleased to see you so happy."

"Thank you, thank you", she chanted. "We were worried that you'd be angry. If not with me, then with him."

"I know I can't stop you. All I can do is to make certain that you understand the situation – and that he will treat you right."

"I have no doubts on that front", Sonea replied as she righted herself, and her chair.

"Did you get her a ring, High Lord?", Rothen asked, arching a brow at the younger man.

"I did. She loves it."

"Look", Sonea added, fishing a silver chain out from underneath her robes.

Rothen examined the ring closely. It was nothing like the one he had chosen for Yilara, but then again, Yilara had been a very different kind of person. And if Sonea liked it, then it was perfect.

Sonea hid the ring underneath her robes before reaching over to interlace her fingers with Akkarin's. He smiled down at her, and Rothen recognised that look as one of a man completely and irrevocably in love.

Once he had lovingly gazed at his betrothed long enough for his taste, Akkarin lifted his gaze to Rothen, his expression shifting into a more sombre one.

"I am aware that we will not, exactly, become family, but – I – I would still like to ask that you address me by my name only."

Rothen's insides did a funny thing at hearing that.

"Of course, High – Akkarin", he replied with a smile.

He got an almost shy smile in return, which delighted him to no end.

"Would you like a hug, as well?"

"Oh, ah, that is, I, yes, I would", Akkarin stammered.

Rothen suppressed a smile as he rose to his feet. Akkarin getting all flustered like this was adorable.

It was a rather strange thing for Rothen to hug someone taller than himself, but he could feel how much this meant to Akkarin.

There is a chance that his family may not respond well to this news, Rothen mused. Having my support must mean a lot to him.

He waited until Akkarin indicated that he had been hugged enough for his liking. Rothen clapped him on the shoulder before inviting him to sit back down.

"I'll fetch you something to drink. And then you two can tell me how, exactly, this happened, and how you intend to break this to the Guild."

"As you wish", Akkarin replied. "I suppose I should go first, since I was the one who fell first."

"Indeed", Sonea agreed. "Brace yourself, Rothen. This is going to be some tale."

---

The Guildhall was packed with people. Sonea had no idea if this was a common thing on graduation days, or if they were here because of her – and Kallen, who looked rather out of place next to the novices.

Sonea forced herself to focus as Regin spoke his Magician's Vow, and received a set of red robes from Lord Balkan. She had made certain to learn her own vows by heart, but she was still worried that she might make a mistake.

So far, Lord Sarrin had handed out the majority of the robes. And Sonea was the only person from her class to have chosen the Healers' discipline.

When Lady Vinara approached her, carrying her new robes, Sonea softly cleared her throat before speaking her vow. She vowed to abide by the laws, to adhere to the restrictions placed on her, and to never abuse the power she would be granted.

As Vinara passed the bundle of cloth to Sonea, she noticed the ring she was wearing, and arched a brow in silent question. Sonea gave her a giddy smile, and whispered, "Today."

Vinara's lips quirked. "I shall not expect you too early tomorrow, then."

Sonea blushed furiously when she realised what Vinara was alluding to. The Head of Healers looked far too pleased with her reaction, too.

Kallen was the last to speak his vows, and he was given a new set of robes to wear as well. The design was the same as Sonea's, but the main colour was different.

Sonea caught Rothen's eye, and received a proud smile. He looked so happy, it was heart-warming.

As soon as the ceremony was over, Sonea attempted to escape from the Guildhall as quickly as possible. Once outside, she broke into a run, heading straight for the Magicians' Quarters. Tania was waiting for her inside Rothen's rooms, and herded Sonea into her old bedroom. Sonea untied her sash and pulled her robes over her head – and paused as the gold shine of the Guild's Incal caught the light.

When she had been given these robes, two years ago, the fact that she now "belonged" to Akkarin had felt like a burden, a weight on her shoulders. She'd have done anything in her power to discard the Incal, to return to her old life as Rothen's novice instead of the High Lord's favourite. She'd avoided looking at it as much as she could, hating the visual reminder of her unfortunate situation.

Now, the thought that the Incal wasn't part of her new robes made her feel wistful. She traced it with her fingers before putting her novice's robes down somewhat reluctantly.

Well, I suppose I will still belong to Akkarin in a way. And he to me. Which is an improvement.

Tania helped her put on her new robes, and Sonea tied the sash before turning to examine herself in the mirror.

"This feels weird", she whispered as she took a step forward, unused to wearing such long skirts.

"It suits you, though, my lady. Oh, it is so good that they made these to measure. If I had to alter them right now, I would throw a fit."

Sonea chuckled as she sat down in front of her vanity so that Tania could get started on her hair. Viola, who was busy preparing everything at the residence along with Takan, had brought a few things to Rothen's quarters in the morning, including the barrette. Sonea had decided to wear it today – it seemed fitting.

"There you are, my lady. You look stunning – the High Lord won't be able to tear his gaze away from you, I promise you that."

"I readily believe that – he's hardly been able to do that before", Sonea chuckled.

"I especially love those earrings, they fit you very well."

"Thank you! I'm sure Savara will love to hear that. She loves getting compliments."

"What lady doesn't?"

"Hah, you're right", Sonea replied with a laugh.

She rose and slowly made her way into the main room, trying to get used to walking in floor-length robes. Rothen was waiting for her, and his eyes turned misty when he saw her.

"Sonea", he whispered, his voice throaty. He moved toward her and grasped her shoulders. "You look so beautiful, so grown-up. I am so happy, and so, so proud of you. Of who you have become."

"Thank you, Rothen", Sonea replied, blinking tears away. "I could have never made it without you – you know that, don't you?"

"I suppose. Although it was a team effort, really."

"True", Sonea replied with a laugh.

Rothen release her, and took a step back. Sonea envied him for the fact that his robes didn't seem to encumber him at all. She'd probably fall over if she tried that.

"Do you, uh, have any questions you'd like answered? About – about marriage and all that?"

"No, I already know all the relevant things", Sonea assured him. "But thanks for asking."

She decided not to mention all the things Savara had taught her. While Sonea had, naturally, already understood the basics, she had not been prepared for all the things she hadn't known about, and had been rather embarrassed talking about some of them.

"Oh, I see. Well, good. That is, I had been prepared to have this conversation with you at one point, although not under these circumstances."

"I suppose that's life for you", Sonea quipped.

"Indeed. Now then, time to go. We shouldn't keep the others waiting."

"Right."

"After you, Sonea. You outrank me, now", he said, his eyes twinkling.

Sonea huffed, but preceded him out the door. A few magicians in the corridor stopped to stare at her, and Sonea had to fight the habit to bow to them. Similarly, it seemed to take them a while to realise that they were now required to bow to her, although they did so without any obvious reluctance.

Sonea greeted them with a gracious nod.

Rothen let out a chuckle.

Once they reached the stairs, Sonea lifted the hem of her robes – the way she had seen Chessea lift her skirts – and cautiously made her way down the stairs. She breathed a sigh of relief once she'd made it, and hurried out of the door, skirts still fisted in her hands. She could walk faster that way, and she feared that they were running late.

The entrance hall was, unfortunately, still filled with magicians – and some family members of Sonea's classmates who had come to attend the graduation ceremony. Sonea nodded politely as she tried to wind her way through the crowd, Rothen trailing in her wake. She tried to emulate the aura Akkarin used to get people to clear a path, and it seemed to work as magicians were suddenly more willing to get out of the way.

Akkarin and Lorlen were waiting by a Guild carriage – or rather, the latter was waiting, while the former was pacing. Sonea suppressed a smile as she descended the stairs.

Akkarin spotted her, and froze in place, his expression shifting into one of breathless wonder. When he didn't move or speak for several moments, Lorlen sidled over to him and elbowed him in the ribs.

Akkarin visibly shook himself, and approached Sonea, halting a few steps away.

He looked utterly mesmerised, and Sonea was torn between feeling bashful, and the urge to preen under his gaze. She took a step toward him, and took note of the look on his face.

Suddenly, she wished that he would kiss her – there was nothing holding them back, after all, not any more. She was no longer his novice. She was his equal. And equals were allowed to kiss each other.

His eyes darkened – although Sonea had no idea how, exactly, that was possible – and her lips parted in response. When he moved toward her, she tilted her chin up to encourage him, lest he change his mind at the last moment. However, there was no stopping him this time – his hands came up to cradle her face, and the next moment, his lips were upon hers.

Their first kiss was somewhat clumsy as they tried to figure out how to do this. However, what they lacked in finesse they made up for with tenderness. Images flashed through Sonea's mind, and she realised that Akkarin wasn't completely in control of his faculties. Sonea threaded her fingers into his hair, mindful of his ponytail – she thought it might be bad if she pulled all of his hair loose, although she did quite like the thought. He had looked rather handsome with his hair down those two times, she had decided in retrospect.

Eventually, they broke apart for air. Sonea's heart was racing, and she felt a little light-headed.

"You look stunning", Akkarin rasped as he touched his forehead to hers. "And there was me thinking you could not be any more beautiful."

"Why, thank you", Sonea replied with a smile.

"All right, enough", Lorlen complained. "Save some of that for the wedding night."

Akkarin chuckled, and retracted his hands. Sonea fought a blush. She would not allow Lorlen to fluster her like this.

As Akkarin stepped away from her, Sonea suddenly realised that they had an audience. A few magicians were clustered around the university portal, trying their hardest to look like they hadn't been gawking at them.

Sonea felt a brief thrill of fear, but pushed it away. They hadn't done anything wrong, or forbidden.

"Oh, right, before I forget – Sonea, I hereby grant you permission to leave the Guild to attend your wedding", Lorlen announced.

"Why, thank you, Administrator", Sonea replied with a grin.

"One would assume that being accompanied by two of the Higher Magicians should count as having received permission", Akkarin huffed, rolling his eyes.

"Now, now, we must observe the rules", Lorlen replied, completely unruffled. "Now, then, come on, or we'll be late."

"Late? It's not like they can get started without us."

"Perhaps not, but there might be other people waiting to get married."

Rothen handed Sonea into the carriage, and she cursed under her breath as she tried not to trip over her robes.

"Savara should have designed them shorter", she groused. "Calf-length, at the maximum."

Rothen chuckled as he sat down next to her. Akkarin and Lorlen followed, and they were off.

Lorlen spent almost the entire ride trying to rile Akkarin up, which he bore with seemingly stoic indifference. After a while, Sonea told him to stop.

Lorlen did just that before fixing her with a quizzical look.

"Feel free to drop the title. You're marrying my best friend – it would feel weird if you kept calling me 'Administrator' after that. And it's not like you haven't been referring to me as 'Lorlen' behind my back."

"All right. Uh – are you expecting an apology?"

"No", he replied with a laugh.

The carriage came to a halt outside the palace, and Sonea felt a sudden surge of panic. Some of that must have shown on her face, for Akkarin asked, in a very concerned tone, if she was feeling all right.

"I think it's just the nerves", Sonea replied, rubbing her hands together.

"Ah, that is perfectly normal", Rothen assured her. "Part of me wanted to bail on my wedding day. Thankfully, I did not do that – Yilara would have never forgiven me."

"Right."

"I must admit that I feel somewhat tense, as well", Akkarin muttered.

"Deep breaths", Lorlen instructed, patting Akkarin's shoulder. "You can do this. You've faced scarier things than a government official."

"I suppose."

Sonea decided to follow Lorlen's advice, too, and took a few calming breaths. Once she felt better, she looked up, and met Akkarin's gaze. They exchanged a nod.

"Ready?", Rothen asked.

"Ready", they replied in unison.

"Well then, let's get this over with", Lorlen commanded.

---

A/N:

Formatting this was a nightmare - for some reason, the file decided that everything was in italic, even though everything was not in italic. I hope I found all the things that were actually supposed to be in italic. Ugh.

Feel free to imagine the tearful reunion between Akkarin and his mare after five years of separation. She was probably mad at him for days (but secretly happy to have him back).

Quick age overview: Dorrien is currently 27, and Rothen is at least 50. funnily enough, I always imagined him to be younger than Vinara, who is described as "middle-aged", which is funny coming from Rothen in his late 40s.

Takan: I'll lock you in here until you've sorted this out. And you'd better sort this out amicably, or so help me.

Dorrien: Lorlen calling me "young man" is kind of funny. Not.

Akkarin: Would you like to join the "Everybody Hates Regin Club"? I'm the president, obviously.

Trassia: Did you hear anything you shouldn't have? Well, now you didn't.

Sonea: Will you just kiss me already?
Akkarin: Ugh, fine. If you insist.
Sonea: Quit acting like you haven't been dying to do that for years.