Lion Head Mesa put my heart in its recipe

She relaxed—not immediately, but gradually, and she was able to let the ice fade from her visage, if not her heart. It has, Satsu, Maegi assured the queen. Everyone has been wonderful. It's been very peaceful.

A question bloomed in her eyes. How did you meet Pharaoh? she asked. We were once upon an island together, and I took to him. He's very religious—and the way he spoke about his gods has stuck with me to this day.

She imagined he had a similar effect on others. Perhaps not in the same way—he was handsome, and probably popular with wolves of all inclinations—but there was no doubting he was magnetic.

As was Satsu, with her pale eyes and trim form. The two were a good match.