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Lady Rianna immediately brought them to some rooms on the second floor, one for Josslyn and Avera to share, with Gustav’s across the hall from them.

As they washed up, Avera couldn’t help but remark, “The lady is very nice.”

“She is. Rianna’s always been too nice. Probably explains her spoiled son.”

“Will he be at the dinner?”

“Most likely, so remember your name.Sara.”

Avera’s lips twitched. “I’ll try.”

They descended to boisterous male laughter. Lord Harry had arrived and chatted with Gustav. At the sight of Avera and Josslyn, the big man exclaimed, “You’re just in time for dinner. Wait until you taste what my wife has prepared. She’s a most excellent cook.”

Lord Harry led them to the dining room and waved them into seats before helping his wife to bring out the food, which was indeed delicious. The evening proved pleasant, and surreal given recent circumstances. It was hard to not smile and relax as their gracious host ensured the conversation and laughter flowed during the meal. Harry also kept their glasses full. While Gustav refused the offer of alcohol, Josslyn had a few glasses of wine. With dessert, she sipped a port which she declared delicious.

“I should hope it’s good,” Lord Harry guffawed. “It came from your winery.”

“So, this is the lady who thinks she can ferment grapes better than a man,” drawled a male voice. A man around Avera’s age entered, his blond hair slicked back, his hawkish nose overpowering his face.

“Xavier, be nice,” chided Rianna. “The lady Josslyn is our guest, and I will add that her wine is the best around.”

“If you say so. I prefer something with a bit more spirit.” With that, Xavier poured himself a glass of something amber before his gaze settled on Avera. “And who is this?”

“My niece. I’m escorting her to Vultures Peak for her wedding.” Gustav hadn’t changed his pose, but Avera knew him well enough to notice he’d gone from relaxed to alert.

“A bit old for breeding, isn’t she?” Xavier stated with a sneer.

While Avera wanted to put him in her place, she held her tongue.

Josslyn didn’t. “Women can marry for reasons other than begetting children.”

“I guess it’s better she spreads her legs for a husband than as a whore.”

Avera almost choked. Did Xavier have no manners at all?

Lord Harry turned red. “That is quite enough from you. To your room if you cannot be gracious.”

“Gracious about what? Telling the truth?”

Lord Harry stood. “It’s not too late to have you shipped out to serve in the naval fleet.”

“And who will force me? You?” Xavier laughed and it was Gustav’s turn to stand.

“You will show respect to your father.”

“Or what? Rumor claims it’s your fault the queen was murdered because you were too stubborn to admit you couldn’t do the job anymore. A common problem, apparently.” Xavier glanced at his father. “It’s long past time for the old men in Daerva to retire and for new blood to take their place.”

“We have new blood. Or have you forgotten our young queen?” Josslyn quietly stated.

“A bastard female that should have never ascended. Daerva needs a king. A strong one that won’t rule softly.”

“Those are treasonous words,” was Gustav’s flat reply. “You are lucky I am a guest in your father’s home, or we would be having a chat with blades.”

“Anytime, old man,” sneered Xavier.

Poor Rianna wrung her hands, flustered but not speaking. Avera bit her tongue so hard it bled. How could such a callous idiot be their child?

“Out,” Harry bellowed. “Or so help me, I will give Gustav permission to thrash you.”