17th Day of the 3rd Month As expected, Lord Eirik is dead-set against my marrying Prince Kol. This does not surprise me. What does surprise me, though, is his adamancy even after my reasoning. I told him my belief of an averted war, but he still refused to accept it. I am ashamed to admit it, but I got a little frustrated at him. "What would you have me do then?!" I asked him in …showed first 75 words of 684 total…

…showed last 75 words of 684 total…sharply for Eirik. He stood before me, worry crossing his face. I told him to ready a messenger. "Prince Kol desires an answer to his proposal," I said, curtly. "By heavens, I'll give the coward an answer!" Eirik's smirk was not lost to me as he marched off to fulfill my command. I will play the hand the ill wind of Fate has dealt me. I only pray that I'm betting on the right cards.