Greatwater Lake eighty-first

"the pharaoh of the Red Land sends a husband for you in the kingsguard, mesen-ka, protector of the Divine Consort."

a powerful man of rank. he expected zharille to be pleased.

but the bright flash of verdant eye did not miss the frost-eaten knight newly flanking the lake's monster queen. the sight of them together thinned his lips into a firm line.

animals bred. kingdoms dictated.

"if the lake is to be held, you will accept mesen-ka as your husband and accept the education of any said children inside the halls of akashingo."

now he was silent. the terms must hold. he did not look at her own fresh helpmeet.