Sit Pretty

Tradition says follow. Honour asks why.

Aren has ascended to the throne, an event that queens before her have celebrated for centuries. Forced into the role, Aren isn't content to be a figurehead or a puppet to those who might manipulate her.

The court is prepared for things to continue as they always have, which is to say however they please. Aren prepares for the worst.

And she's right to do so, as her parents arrive through events which could not have been constructed through mortal hands. A few days later not one, but all four barons arrive, an unprecedented visit considering they have refused to speak with palace lands for the last decade.

Between Aren's parents plotting, and the secrets kept by the barons, Av is pressured into behaving in the name of political alliances. He was taught to fight, not to keep the peace, and the more he's pushed, the more he growls.

A mating is hastily arranged between Aren and the Southern Baron's son, Laeder, but it soon becomes apparent that the couple has little in common. The court insists it go forward despite their differences.

If only they recalled how stubborn a warrior can be when he decides something is worth protecting.