Page 57 of Pawns of Fate
Camillus eyed Lyla with what Rose knew was a hint of suspicion.
“It’s part of Onanish culture,” Rose added, hoping to draw less attention to Lyla, who, to her credit, was wearing her full disguise.
“Of course. All three of you are invited to dinner tomorrow night.” Camillus attempted to bow. Rose wasn’t sure if he was doing it to poke fun at noble etiquette or if he genuinely thoughtit was the appropriate response. Either way, the lack of manners was lost on Ava, who curtsied back at him.
Chapter 19
ROSE
The following afternoon, Rose and Ava were styling each other’s hair for the dinner with Camillus and his wife when Lyla appeared with more letters in hand. Ava insisted on reading York’s letter by herself. Rose knew that her skills hadn’t improved enough to decipher York’s long-winded love letters just yet, but she didn’t stop Ava from trying. She wanted a few moments alone to read Nicholas’s letter.
My dearest Rose,
I was delighted to receive your kind reply. It warms my heart to hear that your time with the Ojoh is comfortable, if a little dull. All that matters is that you are safe.
I am glad they allow you to explore the city, but please do not go out without Lyla. If something were to happento you, I would be devastated. So, be careful. I am already losing my mind over how much I miss you, and it has only been a month. I cannot wait till we are reunited. I may never let you out of my sight again.
My apologies, but this letter will have to be short. The duties of a monster-hunting campaign are never-ending. Still, the thought that perhaps I could see you sooner if I work hard enough gives me courage and hope to keep fighting in this miserable wetland.
I must end my letter here.
Affectionately,
Nicholas
Rose clutched the letter to her chest as she lay back on her bed. A strange feeling, perhaps the child of affection and yearning, erupted inside her as she thought about Nicholas fighting his way through monsters for her. When their marriage had been arranged, she hardly dared to hope they would get along. Now, she couldn’t wait to get back to him, to feel his arms around her waist,his lips on hers.
She sighed and worried that the next five months would pass by more slowly than a snail. Rose missed her husband.
Camillus and Kreystalliahad a beautiful, warm home. Its clay walls were painted with stunning murals of flowers and animals. Blooming bushes, trees, and plants littered the front yard, creating a homey atmosphere.
“Welcome!” Kreystallia greeted them. The smell of spices and herbs wafted out of the kitchen, making Rose’s mouth water. Camillus stood behind her, holding an infant.
Rose, Ava, and Lyla curtsied and thanked the couple for inviting them into their home. Kreystallia’s eyes widened with surprise and delight.
Rose heard Camillus mutter, “I told you they were real Albionish princesses.”
“We’re not princesses,” Rose hastily corrected him.
Kreystallia tried to return the curtsy. “Please, forgive him. We’re excited to have you here tonight. I hope our house is adequate.”
“Your house is lovely!” Ava gushed as they entered the front door, and Rose had to agree. A thick rug covered much of the floor. In place of a couch, soft cushions encircled an inviting hearth. A few baby toys littered the floor in a charming way that tugged at something in Rose’s heart.
“Please, this way.” Kreystallia led them to a dining room lit by warm lanterns. The table was covered with plates of steaming hot food.
They all sat down to enjoy the traditional Ojoh meal, complete with deer meat, soups, and a few vegetables Rose had never heard of before. Ever the chef, Ava questioned Camillus and Kreystallia about every single ingredient.
“What is this?” Ava held up a spoonful of a soft, golden vegetable that Rose hadn’t recognized but had tasted delicious on her tongue.
“Yellow Pomelo,” Camillus answered as he balanced his baby on one knee and ate dinner. “It only grows in the desert. The crows love it.”
Ava shuddered, then questioned them about the bread.
“The best baker in the city is in our neighborhood,” Kreystallia said proudly.
“I don’t know about that,” Rose chimed in. “Ava is quite the baker herself. She makes us fresh bread almost every morning.”
“I’m not a professional baker,” Ava replied, looking bashful for the first time since Rose had met her.
