Queen in Exile by Hatch Donna

Author:Hatch, Donna [Hatch, Donna]
Language: eng
Format: mobi, epub
Publisher: Walnut Springs Press
Published: 2010-12-31T18:30:00+00:00

A league outside the castle, they rode Braygo down the main highway until they reached a bend in the road that blocked the castle from view. In the deepening dusk, shadows lengthened and the sky was awash with color.

“It’s time to reveal ourselves to the guards.” Kai’s voice belied his misgivings.

Jeniah removed the illusion and they retraced their steps, cantering directly up to the main gate. Guards at the outer city gate recognized Kai immediately, and many called out friendly greetings. In response, Kai gave them a very military salute, but he grinned as he called them by name. Inside the wall, they continued through the city to the castle proper and entered those gates as well, passing another set of sentinels.

Kai helped Jeniah dismount, and a servant came to lead Braygo to the stables. Kai put his hand under Jeniah’s elbow as he guided her toward the main castle doors.

In moments, they were surrounded by soldiers gripping Kai’s arm and pummeling him on the back, enthusiastically welcoming him home in their charming, lilting Darborian accents. Kai slid his arm around Jeniah and pulled her into the protective shelter of his arm as he greeted them.

A golden-haired knight with a wide, boyish smile rushed up to them. “You made it!” he said with a whoop. “I knew you would. You always manage to beat the odds.”

Kai’s face lit up. “Garhren.”

The knight pulled him in for a brief hug and a hearty slap on the back. “It’s good to see you in one piece, Kai.” He shook his head, his voice sobering.

Kai exchanged a meaningful look with him and then turned to Jeniah. “My lady, may I present Garhren Ravenwing, knight in the Home Guard, and all-around troublemaker. Garhren, this is Lady Illané of Tirai.”

Garhren’s eyes fixed boldly upon Jeniah’s face and traveled downward to make a thorough appraisal. He bowed deeply. “My lady, I’m your humble servant.” He turned to Kai with a raise of his eyebrows and flashed a wolfish grin.

Kai rolled his eyes and clapped his friend’s shoulder. “Garhren, I need to speak with the king, but I’ll come find you later.”

“Good. I just got off duty. I’ll buy you a grog.”

Word of Kai Darkwood’s safe return spread quickly, bringing throngs of people out to meet him in a sort of impromptu parade. The king came out to meet him at the front steps of the castle. Kai kneeled, bowed his head, and placed his fist first on his chest and then on his forehead, a gesture of respect only offered to the rightful king. Beside him, Jeniah sank into a curtsy. King Farai greeted Kai as enthusiastically as he had in his private chambers, giving no indication that they had already spoken.

Kai grandly presented Jeniah. “May I present Lady Illané of Tirai, a cousin of the late queen of Arden. Lady Illané has agreed to wed me, and I seek your blessing on our betrothal.”

The king beamed. “Welcome to Darbor, Lady Illané.” He cheerfully gave them his blessing and then called for servants to lead the weary travelers away.

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