Book 2: A Celebration

Ainslee

The dining hall is packed with Alphas and nobles. Food has been donated from villagers and pillaged from Tormentian tents. Farmers at the edges of the city have even slaughtered pigs and cows for the occasion, and troops who are still healthy have donated their blood to spare the tired feeders.

Karl is in fine form, telling the tale of our epic battle with the cowardly Tormentians. He is seated next to Princess Sophia and keeps sending warm glances her way. For her part, Sophia is blushing in a girlish way I never expected from her.

I wonder if the ties between Warfang and Shadowglade are about to become even tighter.

Rafe holds my hand the entire feast, making it difficult for me to cut my meat. But I don’t mind. I’m happy we’re connected and able to spend at least one stress-free moment together.

Karl stands suddenly and raises his goblet of wine. “I would like to make a toast.”

The chattering dies down.

“To our al