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“I let you win the joust.” Kelyn whacked his ball. It rolled through the nearest two hoops. “Lady Adenydd wanted dinner with the champion. I was in no mood to comply. Besides, I know you like her.”
Kenrik caught my eye before answering Kelyn. His voice dropped, but I still heard his words, a benefit of emrys hearing—apparently more enhanced than the mortals’. “She’s easy on the eyes, but the heart can change.”
Kelyn snapped upright and followed Kenrik’s gaze. Observing my amusement, Kelyn bowed gallantly. “Will the lady join us?”
Sorfrona and Tiwlip ceased their quiet chatter about the banquet’s highlights. I arched my brows as I raised my voice to be heard across the lawn. “Perhaps another time, Your Highness.”
I turned back to my companions. Both ladies were a delight. Though Sorfrona was exhausted, she claimed she spent too many weeks abed and wanted to relish the autumn before she was shooed inside by gale-force winter winds.
“The highlands are a dream,” Sorfrona said. “I love this countryside. Living lakeside has its benefits and drawbacks though. Fair breezy at times.”
“The air is so woodsy.” Tiwlip sipped her tea. “I’m accustomed to sea breezes back home”—she clarified for my benefit—“in the lowlands. The evergreens fill the air with such vigor here.”
I crunched into a sweet roll, chewed hastily, and swallowed when I realized it was my turn to volunteer information about my homeland. “Gorlassar smells like dewy grass and honey and wildflowers.”
“Sounds splendid, my dear,” the queen said while buttering toast. “Will you return anytime soon? I enjoy your presence and would be sad to see you go.”
“I’m here for an extended visit.” I sipped my cider, hoping she wouldn’t press for the reason. I was waiting for an interlude to present Seren—an opening without saying, I have a, uh, big lizard, who breathes fire and could burn down a village if you get on her bad side. I’d like you to meet her.
I would never burn down a village, Seren said. Haven’t we covered this before?
Just trying to keep things light.
A maid swept silently to the table, presented a folded note on a silver tray, and backed away after the queen plucked up the parchment.
“Oh, my dear. It’s for you.” Sorfrona held the note out. “Go ahead and read it. Maybe it’s an eager gentleman from last night awaiting a swift reply.”
Sorfrona giggled, with Tiwlip, as I took the creamy parchment. I marveled that two mature ladies—mature in that they had children—did so much giggling. I conceded to the queen’s notion. After the dance with the prince, I passed through many hands. Sadly I never danced with Owein. He’d disappeared after his turn with the young woman.
I broke the plain waxy circle—no mark indicating any household.
Niawen,
You may be surprised to receive this because I cannot write. I hunted down a young scribe to pen these words. The festival is over. Arnall and I intend to leave with the caravan in the morning. I’ll be well on the road by the time you read this.
You were a dream. I enjoyed showing you the simple things of this world. The crown prince will show you all the extraordinary, because that is what you are.
I had the pleasure of being your first mortal contact. I will treasure the look on your face revealed by the subtle moonlight. Oh, yes. I had a clear view of your face. One of wonder and excitement. Who would have guessed such a humdrum mortal could hold your fancy so? Nevertheless, the image is engraved in my mind.
If you’re ever in Tarren, call on me. Though I must say, I’m rarely home. Trapping drags me across the country all year. If we ever meet again, I expect it will not be anytime soon.
Fondly,
Owein
I gasped, staring blankly at the words. Why would he do this? What possessed him to up and leave?
“Whatever’s wrong, Lady Niawen?” Sorfrona asked.
I stood, and my napkin slid from my lap to the grass. “He’s gone. Owein left with the caravan this morning. Why didn’t he say goodbye?”
I glanced over at Kelyn, the taller brother, looming over Brenin as Kenrik helped him line up his move. Seren, now’s your chance for an entrance. Please, intercept Owein. Bring him back here.
I can’t say I’m happy about Owein finally flying, but I’ll be glad to flee from hiding.
Thank you.
So many emotions rippled through me. Why should I care so much that Owein left? But I was bordering on outrage. Disappointment. I liked him. We were friends, and he just tossed me aside.
