Page 106 of A Sunwoven Ascent

Kaldrek leaned back, studying Celeste through narrowed eyes. “Let me be certain I understand. There is an invisible barrier around these lands—one that does not keep outsiders out, but persuades them to turn elsewhere. A distraction rather than a defense. And both you and the Shaws believe it may now be weakening, yet no one has made any plan to restore it?”

“That is my understanding,” Celeste replied. “Though I would advise speaking with the covens. They know far more of such matters than I do. I imagine another Great Rite would be required, though whether that would mean another prophecy…” She paused. “I believe such things are chosen by the tree itself.”

“The only true way to keep these lands safe,” Alia spoke up, “is to remove the darkness from the world entirely. The veil is a bandage, not a cure.”

Kaldrek gave a slight nod, as though the answer only affirmed what he already suspected. They had to act—though how remained unclear. Still, Alia was right. Strengthening the veil would not be the answer.

Holden, having finally managed to compose himself, cleared his throat. “Yes, all very fascinating,” he said, still fighting the remnants of a grin, “but can we return to the part where my dear friend, my dear alpha, is expected to attend a noble ball as a lord?”

Kaldrek shot him a warning look. Celeste, however, turned her attention toward Holden with quiet interest.

“And you are?”

“The name’s Holden.”

“Well then, Mr. Holden,” she said, “you and your sister will accompany him as his companions. Eastern nobility, as it were.”

This time, it was Kaldrek who let out a short, incredulous laugh.

Evelyne couldn’t shake the growing sense that this was all becoming rather ridiculous.

“You do realize what that requires of them, Mother?” she said carefully. “Beyond proper attire and grooming, they must speak. Socialize. And not quite as they are”—her eyes flicked briefly to Holden—“accustomed to.”

“What is that supposed to mean?” Holden demanded.

“It means no swearing,” Evelyne said. “No outbursts. No theatrical displays of amusement.” She gestured vaguely toward him. “And you will need to shave.”

“This is absurd,” Holden muttered.

“I think it sounds delightful,” Heidara said brightly. “I should very much like to see my brother properly clean and silent for an entire evening.”

“Fuck off, Heidara.”

“No swearing!” Aurelia snapped at once, turning sharply toward him. Then, looking back to her mother, she added, “You cannot possibly be serious.”

“From what I understand,” Celeste said, her tone returning to its usual calm authority, “this… mating bond is not something that can be undone.”

Her eyes shifted between Evelyne and Kaldrek. Kaldrek gave a single, confirming nod.

“In that case,” Celeste continued, “if I am to accept your chosen path, Evelyne, then we must also ensure that society accepts it. Our family name must remain respected. They must believe you are being properly married—into a suitable match. And the only way to accomplish that is to present a man of status. A lord unknown to them—one whose origins lie beyond the veil. With companions to support the illusion.”

Silence followed as Evelyne considered it. It was not… unreasonable. Only—

Complicated.

She turned toward Kaldrek, her voice softening. “I do not wish to force you into something that makes you uncomfortable. But my mother is not entirely wrong. If we are to live as we have chosen… this may be necessary.”

Kaldrek looked into her eyes for a long moment before slowly lifting his head.

“What,” he asked, “does being a fake lord actually require?”

“Well, it need not be overly complicated,” Lady Celeste said. “You would attend the ball here, properly dressed and presented as a lord of Centaro. Thereafter, should you choose to appear at other gatherings or festivals, it would be sufficient to maintain the appearance that has been established. Once a year would more than satisfy expectations.”

She paused before adding, “You may reside wherever you please, provided you are not discovered among the human population in those… rather impractical leather garments.”

Evelyne exhaled, her fingers tapping absently against the stem of her wine glass as she considered it.

“I will do it,” Kaldrek said in a steady voice. “As will my companions.”