The Queen Maker: Royal Blood, #2

Chapter

1

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THANA STARED THROUGH the kitchen’s large windows into the courtyard, a half-washed pot in her hands. Despite the snow, Keiran was outside on his horse, smiling and showing off the six pheasants he’d taken on his hunt.

Thana! Would you care to explain this?

She dropped the pot into the basin and spun. Mother, what’s wrong?

Sorna swept a glance around the otherwise vacated kitchen, hastily closing the distance between them. She held up a tattered, stained bit of fabric. This!

Thana recoiled as her mother shoved the favor she’d made for Keiran’s inaugural hunt into her face. His dried blood stained it, obscuring the Sipesh family emblem she’d embroidered onto it. In its center remained the hole cut by the crossbow bolt that struck him. Where did you get that?

It was beneath your mattress, exactly where you put it. Sorna tossed the damaged favor at her. I know what that is, and what putting it under your mattress means you hope for!

Thana snagged the favor out of the air, clutching it to her chest. The heat of embarrassment rose to her cheeks. I offered it to Keir in nothing more than friendship before his hunt. I only hid it there to keep it out of your sight. I knew you’d overreact if you found it.

Stop lying, Sorna replied. "Your willful disobedience and forgetting your place has gone on far too long. You are not his equal, and you aren’t children anymore!"

I’m painfully aware of my place, Thana said. I know what cannot be between us! It doesn’t mean we can’t be friends!

Sorna ripped the favor from Thana’s hands. You’ve spent your whole life in this castle. You know what sort of man his father was! King Turis Lee had no issue taking servants to his bed, even against their will. King Keiran will be the same. Your marriage prospects will vanish once rumors of you being his concubine circulate.

Thana jerked the favor from Sorna’s grasp. There won’t be any rumors! Keir isn’t like his father! I can’t stand your constant accusations!

Sorna’s eyes widened. Oh, there most certainly will be rumors. Worse yet, he may turn out exactly like Lord Vercilla, since he’s a damned vampire!

Why do you hate him? Thana’s eyes burned. "Keir hasn’t done anything to you!"

Vampires are manipulative! They’ll pretend to be everything you ever hoped, and then they’ll betray you in ways you cannot imagine!

Thana stomped her foot against the floor. Stop comparing Keir to everyone you’ve ever taken issue with! Corina doesn’t have these problems with him.

Sorna’s eyes narrowed. And Corina is a splendid judge of character, isn’t she? She’s never hesitated to cater to a vampire’s whims. Do you want to be like her?

* * *

Corina gathered the dishes from the servants’ dining hall and left. She neared the kitchen, her arms heavily loaded. She heard her name echo down the corridor. She stepped into the kitchen, fixing her sights on Sorna. What was that? I’m certain I heard my name.

Sorna spun, pointing at her daughter. Tell her! Tell her right now what consorting with the likes of King Keiran will bring upon her!

Corina set the dishes on the kitchen island. Enough of this nonsense, Sorna. Leave the girl be.

No! Sorna moved around the island, getting closer. Tell her! Tell her how King Keiran will succumb to his impulses! Tell her how he’ll manipulate her right into his bed, just as Lord Vercilla did to you!

A cold jolt raced down Corina’s spine. Hold your tongue, Sorna.

Keiran ran in. What’s going on? I heard screaming.

The king’s arrival didn’t make Sorna back down. Go on, Corina. Tell everyone what you already know about his kind!

I’m certain I don’t know what you’re talking about, Corina said, her maternal instincts over Keiran bristling. He won’t harm Thana. He adores the girl.

Sorna, why do you hate me so much? Keiran asked, moving to Corina’s side.

Sorna shook her head. Tell them, Corina! You thought the world about Lord Vercilla once and for what? Ending up pregnant, damned to spend your life alone!

Corina blanched white and swung, slapping Sorna hard enough to spin her to the side, hitting the counter. You wretched old cow!

Keiran yelped and grabbed Corina before she lunged and took the fight to the ground. Stop this!

Thana raced closer, her hands over her mouth. She switched her gaze between Corina and Keiran.

Sorna straightened, her cheek reddened with Corina’s handprint. That’s right. I watched my dearest friend’s life crumble as she desperately sought to please a wretched vampire. The child you bore him didn’t even survive! You wasted your life because of a vampire’s charm. I’ll be damned before allowing Thana to suffer that fate.

Shut up! Corina fought against Keiran’s hold, not to attack Sorna, but to run away. Having her past lain bare before Keiran was a step too far. Pain seized her chest, but Keiran’s hold didn’t falter.

Chapter

2

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The animosity between Sorna and Corina polluted the air. An ache struck above Keiran’s canines, his fangs descending. It was the first time they’d appeared since he’d killed Peirte. The right descended normally. However, a sharp jolt arose beneath the left. He released Corina, turning to the side. He reached into his mouth, pulling the fractured remains of his left fang out as a new, intact one slid into its place.

Corina placed her hand against his back. Keir? Are you all right?

Keiran slowly straightened and turned, locking gazes with Sorna. He didn’t hide his fangs, allowing the broken one to fall from his hand. I’m nothing like Lord Vercilla!

You can easily prove you aren’t like him or your father, Sorna replied.

What could I do to appease you? Keiran asked.

Free those King Turis Lee brought into this castle involuntarily to cover their families’ tax debts, Sorna said.

Mother! Thana yelped.

Keiran looked at Thana as something cold cut through his heart. Sorna had him, her request justified.

Sorna’s glare didn’t waver. Well?

His throat went dry, and he failed to respond. It was the right thing to do. He’d honestly intended to relieve them after the initial frenetic days of his rule passed, already having consulted his advisors on the legality of the matter. However, once he did, Sorna would leave. And she’d take Thana, as Sorna still possessed her parental rights until the girl married.

No! Thana shook her head. I won’t let you drag me out of here to live on the streets to spite him!

Sorna glanced at her daughter. My brother will take us in. We have a place to go.

Keiran braced himself against the island. He broke eye contact with Sorna as an aching twist wound up in his chest. I’ll pay you to stay. Retroactive to the beginning of your service if you remain.

A far more generous offer than expected, Sorna replied, but if it’s your decision to grant those indentured their freedom, I’ll take my leave.

I won’t go! Thana shrieked.

You have no say in the matter, Sorna shot back, grabbing Thana’s wrist. She headed for the door, dragging her daughter along.

Keiran hung his head and closed his eyes as Thana’s cries echoed down the corridor. Though he wanted to follow, he feared what he’d do if he got hold of Sorna. Visions raced through his mind of tearing her apart, only worsening his sickness.

Keir? Corina placed a hand against his back.

He faced her, tears on his cheeks. Will you leave, too?

I’m not going anywhere. You’re all I have in this world, she said, offering a pained smile. I shouldn’t have fed her vitriol. This is my fault.

No, he replied, pushing away from the countertop. It’s mine. It’s mine for simply being what I am. She’s always hated me.

It’s not you she hates. It’s Lord Vercilla, and it’s me, she said. I know you hate him, too, and what I’m about to tell you won’t help matters, but Sorna already announced the truth. You should know why Sorna feels as she does.

So the child you lost before becoming my nurse was Athan’s? he asked.

Aye, it was.

He’s forced himself onto plenty of servants in this castle over the years, he said.

It wasn’t forced, Keir. You won’t understand it, but I was in love with him, even knowing I couldn’t ever truly be his. I defied class laws, believing the promises he made me. Corina sat on a stool beside the counter. Sorna blames him for me remaining unwed, but by the time I had my affair with him, I was already nearing forty. He wasn’t the cause of me going unmarried, it was my own doing. But I was lonely. I’ll never know why, but he let me see who he was beneath his vampirism. I fell in love with him. I’d thought my days of having a child had passed, so I was careless... As my delivery neared, the way he treated me changed. It broke my heart, but I was finally having the child I’d longed for. Then, the Mother’s Plague made its way into the castle. While I survived, the pain of losing my baby crushed what remained of my heart. I would’ve taken my life that day, except the king handed you to me before I threw myself into the river. We needed each other. I wanted to do right and raise you properly, but...

But what? Corina, I can’t imagine anyone having been a better mother to me, Keiran said.

I tried, but my behavior then caused what you’re suffering now.

Sorna’s behavior isn’t your fault.

It is! she said, twisting her hands together. "Sorna was one of the very few friends I had. She watched it unfold. She warned me so many times to not fall for Lord Vercilla’s act. As much as I hate admitting it all these years later, she was right. My resentment destroyed our friendship. Now, she fears watching her daughter go through the same misery I did, and anything I say to the contrary will fall on deaf ears."

He dragged a sleeve across his eyes, the pain only worsening. I’d never hurt Thana. I’m not like Athan.

I know you aren’t, Corina said. I know you love that girl. I’ve seen it in your eyes for years. While I hate Sorna’s actions, she has the law on her side. She’s right about the legality of you and Thana being together. And if you’re releasing the indentured servants from further involuntary service, it’s Sorna’s right to take Thana with her.

Keiran pinched the bridge of his nose. Ethically, there’s nothing I can do about it. I’ve already mentioned to my advisors some thoughts about ending my father’s indentured servants’ tenures, but to have it happen like this? To have my hand forced, and have it used against me? I can’t deny her righteous demand. Even if I refuse to grant those indentured their freedom, it’s still Sorna’s prerogative to send Thana away. Sorna was indentured, not her daughter. Even if I could forbid that without being a tyrant, I cannot legally have Thana as my wife. That pains me more every day.

Do you truly wish to marry her?

More tears burned his eyes, and he drew a shaking breath. His fangs retracted as hopelessness washed over him. "Aye, Corina. I want it so deeply it hurts."

Corina stood. "Keir, you’re the king. Surely, there’s something you can do."

Telling Sorna she can’t leave with Thana would make me no better than my father. It’d prove her right about me, he said. I can’t do that. You told me once there were greater issues for me as king than dealing with my private dilemmas. Allowing my selfish desires to shape my behavior will make me everything Sorna swears I am.

There must be a means of changing the laws and legally marrying Thana, Corina said. If she then gave you her hand, Sorna’s authority would end.

The church enforces the laws regarding royal marriage. They’re beyond my jurisdiction. Keiran looked at her. What good is being king if I can’t control my life?

Talk to Father Beezle, she said. There must be a way. Don’t give up.

While it was unlikely to change anything, he was desperate. I’ll get Jerris and visit the cathedral.

Chapter

3

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Jerris leaned against the wall by the guardhouse’s window. The winter’s first snow arrived the night before, blanketing the courtyard in white. Activity carried on as normal outside, but he wanted no part of it. After spending the morning on the king’s pheasant hunt, staying inside and warm was his only priority.

The door opened behind him, and he glanced over his shoulder. Is there a problem, Brett?

Men are at the gate, demanding an audience with the king, he said.

Hardly unusual, Jerris replied, tugging his woolen cloak around his shoulders. See if there’s an appointment available. No need to drag me into it.

The sentry stepped forward. No, you need to meet them since your father isn’t here today. Something terrible happened.

What?

They’re from Edinau, the sentry replied. They say the Sadoris invaded. They took the town and coal mines.

Jerris huffed and exited without another word. He heard the commotion at the gates before he saw it. Seven men stood there, all speaking at once as three guards held them back.

The men were filthy, their clothes ragged and bloodstained. Some of them didn’t wear shoes despite the snow, and few wore cloaks. They hadn’t been prepared for travel when flushed from their homes. Their eyes were wild with panic and sunken from exhaustion and dehydration. Violent shivering wracked them, and Jerris knew he needed to get them somewhere warm.

He whistled loudly, cutting through the din of excitement. When everyone gave him their attention, Jerris locked gazes with the man he assumed to be their leader. Follow me. Once we’re inside, you can tell me what’s going on. You won’t do much good if the lot of you freeze to death. Brett, run ahead and ask to get warm tea and blankets ready for our guests.

The sentry offered a quick salute before running toward the keep.

Jerris motioned for the men to follow him, going slow enough for them to keep up in their exhausted state. He climbed the steps to the keep’s doors and pulled one open, finding Keiran on the other side.

Keiran’s attention landed on Jerris. We need to—wait, who are they?

Jerris waved Keiran back and entered, leading the men into the keep’s entryway. He grabbed Keiran by the arm and pulled him a short distance away. They just arrived. They’re from Edinau. The Sadoris invaded.

Keiran’s eyes widened. All right. Get them something to eat and drink. They look miserable.

Brett’s already on that.

Good. Afterward, bring them into the throne room. I need to know exactly what’s happened.

* * *

Keiran’s heartache compounded his dread of what the men would tell him. He’d picked up on their genuine anguish, not doubting what little he’d already learned. For this to happen less than twenty days after taking the throne hit hard. He wasn’t comfortable with ruling, and dealing with an invasion wasn’t something he felt qualified to handle.

With a few curt orders, Keiran had a table pulled into the throne room’s center. Soon, several maps of the southern border lay across it. The two advisors he’d retained from his father’s council stood beside him, offering their knowledge of the previous conflicts between the Sadoris and Tordanians.

While Keiran’s education included the history of those past conflicts, his advisors had first-hand experience. However, with the time elapsed since their service, many of Keiran’s questions were only met with speculation.

Jerris ushered the refugees in, each wrapped in a blanket with a cup of tea and bread in hand.

Keiran excused himself from his advisors and moved around the table. So, you’re from Edinau?

One man stepped forward, short of stature but rugged. Aye, we are. Who are you? This is a matter we must discuss with the king!

Keiran flicked Jerris a glance before meeting the man’s gaze. I am the king.

You’re not King Turis Lee Sipesh! he shot back.

He’s thirty-days dead, Keiran replied. I’m King Keiran Valis Lee Sipesh.

K—Keiran? The man’s eyes widened. He dropped to a knee, spilling some of his tea, all of his companions doing much the same. My apologies, Your Majesty! We hadn’t heard! Please forgive me!

The man’s terror struck Keiran hard, and he stepped backward. Please rise. I’m certain there are plenty of towns throughout Tordania that haven’t received news of my father’s death. Don’t be afraid. You’ll find the rumors about me aren’t necessarily truthful. I want to help you.

Thank you, Your Majesty, he said, struggling to his feet.

While Keiran’s ability to read the emotions of others had faded since killing Peirte Methaius, the feelings coming from these men were strong enough to form a knot in his gut.

He studied the closest man. The tracks of tears were evident in the dirt and soot on his face. Shoeless, wounds covered his feet, his toes the unnatural gray of frostbite.

You walked here from Edinau? Keiran asked.

We did, and we may be the only survivors, he said. We had five more with us, but they didn’t survive the trip. We lost track of the days, but we did our best to get here as quickly as possible. We couldn’t get our horses or take supplies. If we’d tried, we’d be dead, too, and there would’ve been no one to warn you.

You traveled over the mountains without supplies during the onset of winter? Keiran shook his head. The very fact any of you survived—you have my admiration. Now, what happened?

The Sadoris arrived in the night. The alarm went out too late. Houses were lit on fire, doors barricaded so their occupants couldn’t escape. Those of us who got out fought, but they overwhelmed us. There were too many. Absolute chaos. As our numbers dwindled, we fled, hoping to warn others.

Keiran let out a long breath. Edinau is our largest coal-country settlement. You’re talking hundreds of people killed.

The man broke down, unable to respond.

Another refugee came forward. The military outpost built to protect us... We went there to plead for help, but the soldiers were already dead. The Sadoris slaughtered them before coming into town. They knew what they were doing.

Keiran’s heart sank. When the Sadoris were last pushed from Tordania, Emperor Betram swore a pact of nonaggression with us. Unfortunately, my father gutted the military afterward, more concerned with filling his coffers than protecting the country.

Jerris neared Keiran’s side. If they swore peace, why would they attack now?

Betram was in his sixties when he took the throne, Keiran said. Twenty years have passed. Perhaps a new emperor took control? Maybe they learned my father was gone and wished to test a new king? It doesn’t matter what their reasoning was. If they’ve taken Edinau, then they almost assuredly have Lodain, too. They would’ve landed there after crossing the river to invade. Jerris, I need your father. Where is he?

He went into town to collect his gold from the farmers leasing our land, Jerris said.

Please find him.

I’ll bring him back.

Keiran watched him leave and leaned against the table. He pinched the bridge of his nose as the first pangs of a headache arose in his skull—the first one he’d suffered since taking the throne.

Is there any chance they kept some of our people alive as prisoners? a man asked.

Keiran didn’t have an answer. He glanced at an advisor. Sygian?

The Sadoris likely kept a few alive for forced labor. As soon as they move enough of their people in to do what needs to be done, however, they’ll kill their captives, the advisor replied. At least, that’s how they did things previously.

The ache returned to Keiran’s upper jaw, his fangs reappearing. He may not have cared for his father, but he’d always felt a sense of possession and pride for his country.

Keiran brought a hand up, hiding his mouth. These men were already upset. Seeing his fangs wouldn’t do them any favors. I’ll ask the physician to tend to you. I’ll see to it you’re all bathed, given clothes, a proper meal, and a bed.

* * *

Though Sorna ordered Thana to remain in their room, once she saw her mother leave the castle from the window, she’d stormed out. She entered the throne room, noticing more people within than usual. Something strange charged the air, and she wondered if it was the result of her mother’s actions earlier.

She spotted Keiran leaning over a table, his arms braced on either side of a map. Jerris and Kanan stood with him, as well as several others.

She’d wanted to find him alone, but he was clearly occupied. Still, time was short. Thana walked closer, stopping on the opposite side of the table.

He noticed her and straightened. Thana, you’re still here?

Aye, but not long, she said. You’re busy, but...

Keiran shook his head and moved around the table. Follow me.

Keir, this isn’t the time for distractions, Kanan warned.

I won’t be long, he replied over his shoulder before heading for the exit.

Thana followed behind him as he led her to the dining hall. Once inside, Keiran locked the door.

He turned to her, stress dimming his eyes. What’s happening? I thought she was going to drag you off.

A lump formed in her throat. She’s already packed our things, but she’s gone into town to get her brother to bring his wagon. Once they’re back, they’ll load the wagon and take me away.

He averted his gaze, a shimmer forming above his lower lashes. Damn her.

She went closer, laying her hands against his chest. Keir?

First this madness with Sorna, and then I learn the Sadoris invaded. They’ve slaughtered the people of Edinau and probably Lodain, he said. That needs my full attention, but with things as they are between us...

Thana slid a hand up to his cheek. The Sadoris? Why?

I don’t know, he whispered, looking into her eyes and placing his hands on her hips, drawing her closer. We’re going to war, and I vowed during my ascension rites to carry the weight of it on my back. I’m not ready for it, but it’s my duty.

Being pulled against him sparked an ache within her. She dropped her gaze to his lips. Makes our troubles seem small.

They aren’t small to me, he replied before meeting her in a kiss.

Their previous kiss had been fast and sweet. This was different. There was something heated in it, fueled by the impending separation they faced and their mutual need for a momentary escape.

Keiran picked her up and carried her to the dining table. He sat her on its edge, his typical awkward uncertainty gone. He pressed in against her, diving into another kiss.

Thana entwined a hand in his hair and slowly lay back on the table, pulling him along with her. She no longer cared about the legality of it. She no longer cared about being caught. Things were already horrible. Submitting to what she’d wanted for years wouldn’t worsen matters.

...and as he instinctively rolled his hips against her, it most certainly felt like he was ready to submit to it, too.

His mouth left hers and trailed down her neck. She tipped her head back, his tongue drifting across her throat, the grazing of his teeth against her skin. Then, the pressure of a gentle bite.

Her eyes snapped open. Keiran, stop.

He backed away with a start, eyes wide. She sat up, bringing her hands to her neck. She looked at him, seeing his fangs between his parted lips.

Did I hurt you? he asked, his expression falling.

No, no, you didn’t, and I know you wouldn’t, she whispered, shame washing over her. I want this, I do, but...

He looked to the side, his breaths coming fast. But?

What do you feel for me? she asked. I know there’s something within you, but we’ve never openly discussed it.

He met her gaze and gave a single nod. Despite the class divisions, the law, or your mother’s wishes, I’m in love with you, Thana. I want you to be my wife. I always have.

Wife? Her eyes burned, and she slid from the table, taking a step toward him. You honestly love me that much?

I do. I always have. And you? he asked, his stare unwavering.

I’d give you my hand, she said, her heart racing as a rush of heat crossed her cheeks. "I’d give you everything."

He gave a deep growl and stood taller. You love me?

I do.

A commoner’s marriage is nothing more than an agreement between the two involved, he whispered.

You aren’t common. Thana knotted her hands before her stomach to stop their shaking.

Neither are you.

She closed her eyes. But I am! And I’m beholden to my mother’s wishes. It’s bitterly ironic she can righteously demand her freedom from this castle when I have no means of gaining my independence from her. It’s not as though I’m a child anymore. If I were younger but already wed, she’d have no authority over me.

He gave a quiet laugh.

She opened her eyes and looked at him. What?

Delay your mother from leaving. Hide, remain out of her sight until I call everyone in for a meeting after her return. I know what to do, he replied, a faint, lopsided smile cropping up.

You do? she asked.

Aye. Have faith I’ll find a solution. Maybe not a means of marrying you before I’m forced off to war, but please, wait for me. Then when that day comes...

She stepped closer. What?

We won’t find ourselves hiding in the damned dining hall, rushing through what should wait to happen in our marital bed at our leisure.

That’s the most seductive refusal ever spoken, she said, unable to suppress a smile.

"To be fair, you’re the one who stopped me," he replied, a flush creeping across his cheeks.

An awkward silence passed. The temptation to submit right back to her feelings burned. She dragged her mind from it. All right, I’ll stay out of sight until you do whatever it is you must.

Keiran kissed her forehead before edging back toward the door. Good. Now, while I hate leaving, I don’t want Kanan taking a damned axe to this door again.

All right. Thana remained in place while he fumbled with the lock.

Keiran flashed an awkward grin at her, accompanied by an embarrassed laugh. The new door sticks a bit.

* * *

Keiran finally yanked the dining hall door open. He scanned the corridor, spotting Farin Edmund, a member of the royal guard assigned to security patrols.

He stopped, eyeing Keiran. Having trouble, Your Majesty?

No, he replied too quickly. The new latch needs some oil.

Farin looked past him, frowning. Is that so?

Keiran nodded. Aye, Farin. All is well.

The guard switched his gaze between Keiran and Thana a few times. He slowly nodded and turned to continue down the corridor.

Keiran offered Thana a pained smile before breaking into a quick stride toward the library.

He hadn’t gotten far when he heard someone running to catch him. Soon, someone gripped the back of his doublet, dragging him to a halt.

He spun, finding Jerris. What?

The old man sent me, he said, glancing as Thana hurried past. His brows rose, and he met Keiran’s eyes. Oh, dear God, did you two just...?

Keiran frowned and shook his head. No, we were merely talking. There was trouble with her mother earlier. I need to take care of something. It won’t take long, but I must finish it before I focus on the Sadoris.

Keir, what you need to do—

The vampire lifted a hand. Jerris, I’m begging you as my closest and dearest friend, please give me a little time to finish something. Once I return to the throne room, our problems with the Sadoris will have my full attention. But I won’t be able to until I clear my mind.

All right. I’ll keep my father at bay, so he doesn’t come track you down himself, Jerris said. I’ll tell him this whole mess has sparked your old headache and infamous intestinal upset.

That’s not exactly what I meant by clear my mind.

Do you have a better excuse? Jerris asked.

Keiran’s brows rose. Well, no, but that’s embarrassing.

"It will keep him from looking for you."

Keiran smiled. Thank you, Jerris.

Aye, go on with you, he said, turning to leave.

Keiran ran the rest of the way to the library. While he’d hoped to find it vacated, Sygian was inside, shuffling toward the doors with a massive book in his arms.

I was just leaving, the advisor said. What do you need? I can get it for you.

Keiran considered him momentarily. Can I trust you?

If you didn’t, you would’ve sent me away with your father’s other advisors, Sygian replied.

Right. Keiran strode past him to his desk. He sat and pulled open a drawer, lifting out a sheet of parchment. I need to draft up a short decree, and you can help me ensure it’s done correctly and is legally binding.

* * *

Kanan looked up from the maps covering the table. Feeling better?

I’m fine. Keiran neared the table, Sygian at his side. Sorry about the delay.

The old guard grunted. While you were gone, I received word from the garrison command. Keir, there’s a problem.

I wouldn’t expect any less. What is it?

Kanan slid a document across the table. As you know, King Turis Lee decimated our military. Combined with the lack of young men your age because of the Mother’s Plague, there simply aren’t many bodies to press into service. Veterans too old or boys too young to fight fill the rosters. Most of them are forty years or older, with many closer to my age.

Keiran scanned the report. How do we counter an invasion, then? If the Sadoris took Edinau and Lodain, then their invasion force surely possesses more men than we have on this list!

Maybe not as many as you fear. I spoke with the refugees. It sounds like the Sadoris used their old methods of trapping people inside at night and burning them. It takes fewer men to overthrow a town like that than a fair fight does, Kanan said.

The Sadoris number in the millions. Even if they only sent a fraction of their men... Keiran’s words trailed off.

There are others we can hire, Kanan said. Plenty of retired veterans will join. We don’t have youth on our side, but we have experience fighting the Sadoris. That counts for something.

I’ll appreciate having you at my side when we head out, Keiran said.

You’re not going.

Like hell I’m not! Keiran shot back.