by Tia Reed
They were allowed to leave the grounds and join their guards unmolested. History would not record Myklaan as starting this war, nor would the Vae mark the realm as dishonourable during the lead up to a battle. Mounted on fresh horses, armed, provisioned, and under escort, Mariano, Ahkdul, Arun and scared Kahlmed flanked her as they began the journey north.
Outside the city gates, Kordahla turned her head to the northeast. Brooding Faradil Forest was the only sight to behold, but Tarana lay in that direction, her home despite her foolish flight. Vinsant too, the one person she longed to see. And Father, who would chastise her till her insides were raw before embracing her like a young child and kissing her despair into reluctant acceptance.
She shuddered as Ahkdul caught her wistful gaze and brought his horse alongside hers. Shuddered as he spoke. “Oh no, my wicked wife. You are coming with me to Verdaan. Your father has agreed. We are to wed without delay.”
About the Author
Tia Reed lives in Australia with her bossy cat and boisterous dog, both of whom believe her writing takes far too much of her attention away from them. Much of the inspiration for her stories has come from the experiences thrown at her while travelling. When she is not teaching or writing, she enjoys taking her dog for walks, and trying to tame her beast of a garden.