What do we do with her?

What do you mean? What can we do with her? Shes nothing but a common wh--

Shes your daughter.

Laris averted her eyes after she spoke the word. She didnt have to see Glynnas face to know what was
written there.

Yes, she is my daughter. And by now, Riordan Llyr should have been my son. Thats not what happened,
though, is it? That...daughter of mine had to rut with Simon Redmoon, didnt she? Couldnt keep her
damned legs together.

Ive met Simon. Hes a fine boy. Hes very well regarded in Shantavel. They say...

What do I care about Shantavel? I needed Fiona to marry Riordan. This marriage was meant to ally our
families, to improve both of our lands. Now thats all been destroyed. Ill lose my land once the sickness
finishes with Edwin. And for what?

For love?

Glynna only responded with a derisive snort and stormed out of the room cursing. She slammed the door
hard on the far end, letting the sound echo briefly before taking heavy steps down the hallway.

Laris remained, sitting quietly for a moment. She turned her head slowly to the closed door on the other
side, studying the small glint of lantern light creeping through the bottom.

Inside was a young woman, spent and exhausted, smiling down at her lap.

Youre beautiful. Simply beautiful. She brushed the small tuft of light brown hair on top of the infants
head. He made the slightest of sounds in response. He looked up at her with eyes the color of fresh silver
coins.

You have your fathers eyes, no question there, she whispered to him. I wish he could see you now. He
would be so proud of you. My little Kieran.

A knock on the door drew her attention away. She looked up, eyes instinctively going wider and she saw
the knob turn. She clutched Kieran closer to her and drew her breath in, as if she could hide in the small,
sparse room. After an eternity of several seconds, she finally managed to say something in a trembling
voice.

You cant have him! Hes my son. Ill never let you...

Hush, child! The voice was warm but firm. Its Aunt Laris. Fiona sighed heavily, her shoulders
slumping forward. Kieran began to stir.

Come, Fiona. We must leave. Pack your things.

But why?

Because if you want to save your child, well need to leave by sunrise. Well take a boat to the mainland.
To Shantavel and to...

Simon. Fiona whispered, finishing the thought. Fiona began to cry as she looked up at her aunt.
But...we? Laris nodded.
When your mother finds out Ive helped you get away, shell call for my head for sure. But let her. I never
did like the old bitch, anyway. Come now, theres little time.

Moments later, Fiona Corollan was turning around to take a last look at the family manor before heading
down the narrow, twisting road to the city proper, her new son sleeping in her arms.