“I don’t care what that crone spouts! I refuse to accept such a fate! It’s defeat, and I won’t be defeated. Not by galla, not by politics nor the machinations of ambitious court parasites.” He clenched his fists and strove for calm. “I will save my kingdom,” he said quietly. “And my reward will be my wife at my side.” Slender fingers curled around his wrist and squeezed. Ildiko’s eyes were glossy in the darkness. “Promise you’ll return to me, alive and whole.” “Promise you’ll be here for me to return to,” he countered. “I swear it.” He rested one knee on the bed and bent to place his hands on
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