[Bonus chapter] Marriage Plans

The soldier appeared flustered and his eyes were wide with panic. Rolfe's shoulders tightened. "Queen Siora wants to have a word with you, m'lord," he said. "She is waiting in the dungeons below." Suddenly Rolfe could feel a ripple of mother's sticky, malevolent magic as if she was trying to feel him, feel the fortress and things around it. The guard stilled when the magic touched him, his body shivering. 

Rolfe extended his magic to the guard to soothe him. He hated the way his parents would make others feel in their presence. Why did it have to be so wicked and malicious? Why were they always on guard? He shrugged and shoved his thoughts. He took a deep breath and said, "Tell her I will meet her in an hour."

"Yes m'lord," said the guard. He bowed and left.