“I’m not sure about this.” Vaera stepped out from behind the screen, tightly clutching the lacy frills. “Are you certain I should be wearing such a nice dress?” The heat in her face grew as Priscilla stared at her.

  “It looks lovely on you!” Priscilla said. Her smile faltered as her eyes lingered on her friend’s bust. “I’d never be able to wear it.”

  “No need to be jealous, my lady.” Lana embraced Vaera protectively. “You should be happy for your friend. She may even find a handsome knight to sweep her off her feet.”

  Vaera glanced at her reflection. “Is that me?”

  This couldn’t be her reflection. Clothes barely hung off her tiny frame, and yet the cream-colored dress clung to her, revealing the slight contours. Her brown hair, which was matted and dull now shined from a fresh wash and styled into an ornate bun. The only thing that hadn’t changed was the small speck of dirt beneath her right eye.

  “That can’t be me, can it?” Tears formed in her eyes. Something soft dabbed at her eyes.

  “No crying dear.” Lana smiled warmly at her. “You’ll ruin your makeup.”

  “I’m sorry.”

  “Don’t be,” Lana said, rubbing along the speck under her eye. “The Virtues have blessed you with great beauty.”

  Vaera couldn’t believe it. She was surrounded by beautiful women at the tavern. There is no way that small speck could mean she would be as beautiful as Lady Mina, Meridith, or even mistress Ada. The knock at the door made Vaera jump.

  “My lady.” Kogna’s voice came from the door. “Are you ready.”

  “We are!” Priscilla took Vaera’s arm and led her out of the room. Vaera couldn’t stop herself from staring at the swordsman.

  Kogna stood there, dressed in a black silk robe with golden floral embroidery. His black hair was braided into a ponytail with golden bands holding together. His sword was tucked into a dark crimson sash with matching embroidery. Vaera could feel the flush on her cheeks, but she couldn’t turn away.

  “How do we look, sir Kogna?” Priscilla smiled as she pressed herself against Vaera.

  Kogna gave them a small smile. “You two look lovely.” The compliment made Vaera’s heart skip, and it brought a warm smile to her lips.

  “Come now ladies.” Lana clapped her hands. “You have a banquet to attend.”

  “Thanks for letting me come.” Vaera whispered as she took Priscilla’s arm and followed her out of the room.

  “I’m surprised you wanted to come.” Priscilla chuckled. “But I’m glad master Legion asked. It’ll be nice to have a friend with me.”

  The soft murmurs of multiple conversations filled the air and it was accompanied by the music of the grand orchestra. The influential citizens and lesser nobles under the Duke segregated themselves into their chosen groups. Each person wore a false smile as they bragged about their small successes.

  “Are you not enjoying yourself?”

  Meridith fought to keep her smile on. “I wouldn’t say that your grace.” She said, “I’m merely not used to such grand ceremonies.”

  “I’m surprised.” Phineas chuckled lightly. “Your professionalism gave me the impression that you were used to dealing with nobles.”

  “You must thank my previous employer.” She said with a faint smile.

  “Even after he fired you?” Meridith stared at him with wide eyes. “Forgive me, but I had Cromwell look into you after our first meeting.” Phineas looked into her eyes. His cheeks slightly flushed.

  Meridith’s glanced over at Kogna on the other side of the room. “How much do you know?”

  “I know that you used to work for the Black Horn Guild, and that you were fired.” Meridith tightly clenched her hands together as the large man leaned into her. “I also know that you met the monster” he whispered. Meridith’s eyes shot to the small thread of mana floating nearby. She let out a small gasp when he pulled her close. “I’m sorry you had to go through that.”

  She let out her breath and placed a hand on his chest. “It was a harrowing experience, but that isn’t your burden to bear.” She stared up into Phineas’ face. Her smile faltered at his resemblance to his brother. The only difference being the warmth in his eyes.

  “But it is.” He sighed deeply. “As the reigning family, it is our responsibility to take care of the people of Jericho, but we were too focused on the Wight King.” His shoulders shook as he took her hands, but his eyes were filled with determination. “I swear, we’ll destroy the monster. I’ll avenge Laegyn, my brother, and all the other people that it has kill.”

  Meridith’s chest tightened, and she gave him a warm smile. “Be careful, my lord. We wouldn’t want to lose you too.”

  “There’s nothing to worry about.” Phineas replied, “I’ll have Sir Kogna and the knights alongside me. Together, we’ll rid the city of this monster.”

  “We would also like to join the fight.” They turned towards the approaching couple. Meridith’s eyes slowly took them in.

  The Saint fidgeted under her gaze. Clearly, she wasn’t comfortable with the plunging neckline and open back of the blue dress. Although, it did make her stand out from the other women. Halligan wore a simple black suit. The lack of frills a sore sight against the pompous attire of the other noblemen.

  “Lovely to see you again, sir Halligan.” Meridith flashed him with a bright smile.

  “You as well, Lady Meridith.” The young man replied.

  “Forgive us for intruding, but we overheard you talking about… the monster.” Saint Urielle said quietly.

  “I don’t mean to offend,” Phineas said, “But the last time you went after the monster, you ended up losing two of your party.”

  Urielle flinched at the noble’s harsh tone. “I admit that we underestimated it.” she said, “But the monster is weak against divine magic. Together, we can easily destroy it.”

  “And the lich.” Halligan added on. “We need to destroy the lich as well.”

  “Yes, we’ll need to eliminate it as well.” Phineas ground his teeth together.

  “Then let us join, please.” The two of them looked at Phineas.

  He sighed. “Let me talk with Sir Kogna. I’m certain he’ll appreciate the extra hands.”

  “Thank you, my lord.” Urielle smiled, but her eyes kept glancing around the room.

  “Are you looking for someone?” Meridith asked.

  Urielle jumped and forced a smile on her face. “I’m looking for the delegation from the House of Destiny.” She said with a shaky voice. “I hear they have a saint and would like to meet her.”

  “Father Eirgn and his followers will be coming in later.” Phineas replied sternly. “They are preparing to present my father with a special gift later tonight.”

  “That’s… splendid.” Urielle’s smile barely reached her eyes.

  Meridith quickly glanced around, and she pursed her lips in disgust. “The Patron is here as well?” She nodded to the other side of the room.

  Everyone turned to watch the Patron speaking with Priscilla. Meridith’s stomach twisted in disgust whenever the priest glanced towards Vaera. She had to force her hands together when Waldren placed a hand on the girl’s exposed shoulder with his thumb rubbing her skin. The poor girl gave the man a disturbed smile as he continued to touch her.

  “Is something the matter?” Urielle asked.

  “Haven’t you heard about the accusations?” Meridith sneered deeply as the others shook their heads. “Several young girls in the lower city have come forward with accusations against the Patron.”

  “What accusations?” Phineas asked, glaring at the priest.

  “He’s forced himself on young girls, using their unfortunate circumstances against them.” Meridith replied. “These accusations have drawn my master’s attention, and he’s currently investigating it.”

  “Is there any evidence to these accusations?” Urielle’s face went pale. “Or is it simply hearsay?”

  “There appears to be some evidence.” Meridith said sharply. “And it looks like it has been going on for years with the Church covering it up.”

  Phineas clenched his fists. “Have I been blind to another monster?” He growled deeply.

  The harsh, judgmental whispered assaulted Myra’s ears, and she squirmed under the hard glares of the other women. They didn’t approve of the sheer cloth that barely covered her or the two other prostitutes languidly hanging off Lord Olivar. Unfortunately, she didn’t have a mask like the other two.

  “Take a bite of this, my lord.” Cynmora said sweetly as she pressed the small treat to Olivar’s lips. “Good, isn’t it?”

  “How about a sip?” Ada’s voice deep and husky. Her sultry smile hid her malicious side well.

  A nervous chuckle escaped Olivar’s lips. “Thank you, ladies.”

  “We live to serve.” Ada’s smile grew as she leaned towards his ear. “You may get a reward tonight too.” She said in a loud whisper. The other noblewomen stormed off in disgust.

  A case of theft: this story is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.

  “Are you two trying to ruin my reputation?” Olivar hissed.

  “My dear little lord, you’ve already ruined your reputation.” Cynmora cackled in his ear. “Now behave, or we’ll have to punish you.”

  “We need to speak with the Patron. Come little pig.” Ada pulled Olivar along.

  Myra followed quietly behind. The two women pressed themselves against the lord, trapping him in their grip. She was amazed at how the two women could swing their hips in time with each other. It made them look like a large three-headed monster.

  Across the hall, she noticed Halligan speaking with the Lord Phineas. Meridith hung close to the future duke as she spoke. Whatever she had to say made the Saint uncomfortable, and they all turned to their side of the hall.

  “Have you no shame!” The shrill voice made Myra jump. Priscilla clung to the girl at her side, her face a deep red. “This banquet is to honor a religious institution, and here you are with three nearly naked women at your side.”

  Olivar let out a low growl. “Perhaps I grew tired of pursuing a spoiled child.” He snapped back. “So, I decided to chase after true women.” He wrapped his hands tightly around the prostitutes.

  “Come Vaera, I tired of hearing this cock crow.” Priscilla huffed, pulling her friend away.

  “Was that necessary, my lord?” The Patron sighed.

  “Don’t patronize me, old man!” Olivar sneered, his fingers dug deeply into his companions’ flesh. “I’m tired of everyone looking down on me.” He smirked as the two women groaned in pain.

  “Still, I must agree with her ladyship.” Waldren replied, “It’s in poor taste to bring daughters of Gezaria to a hallowed banquet.”

  “You are in no position to judge us.” Cynmora snapped.

  “Easy now, Cynmora.” Ada smiled viciously. “Patron, please don’t defame my companion and I. The King is already displeased with you.”

  Waldren’s face went pale. “Is he here?”

  “He’s resting, but he does wish to speak with you.” Ada took Waldren’s arm. “If you’ll follow me.” The priest nodded and quickly glanced around. They disappeared into the corridor. A few guests giving them appalled looks.

  “Now it’s your turn dear.” Myra jumped as the zymarrian whispered into her ear. “Keep the hero distracted while I get the girl ready.”

  Myra slowly made her way across the hall. She clasped her hands tightly to keep them from shaking, and it felt like her heart would burst from her chest. Halligan stood there next to the beautiful saint. Her mouth went dry as she approached them. Her smile was shaken and forced.

  “Hal, it’s a pleasure to see you here.” Myra said, trying to keep her voice steady. “Are you enjoying the party?”

  “As well as I can.” Halligan gave her a goofy smile. “I feel out of place among the city’s elite.”

  “I know what you mean.” Myra laughed nervously. “Not like out festivals back home, is it?”

  “Not unless someone starts a fight.”

  “Do you two know each other?” The Saint interrupted with a polite smile.

  “Sorry, Lady Urielle, this is Myraelle.” Halligan said, his face slightly flushed. “My friend from back home.”

  “A friend!” Myra sighed, snuggling up to him. “We were lovers, but then my parent’s sold me into slavery.”

  Urielle’s eyes went wide as she looked between them. “I’m sorry.” She stuttered as she took Myra in. “It must be awful to be subject to another’s whims.”

  “It can be, but I’ve gotten used to it.” Myra rested her head on Halligan’s chest. “Would you mind giving Hal and I some privacy? I need to speak with him for a moment.”

  “Of course.”

  Myra’s smile became more natural as she watched the Saint leave. “So, are you two close?”

  “We are.” Halligan cleared his throat. His eyes wandered over her body and made his blush brighten. “What do you need to talk about?”

  “Nothing important.” Myra ran a finger over his chest. “I simply wanted to spend time with you. I missed you, Hal.”

  “As did I.” Halligan gently placed a hand on her back. “I’m sorry that I couldn’t save you back then.” The two of them stared at each other. The orchestra filled the air with gentle music. “Would you like to dance?”

  “I’d love two.” She chuckled as Halligan nervously took her arm and led her to the dance floor.

  Halligan’s left-hand shook as it hovered over her waist, and his right-hand clung tightly to her. His face turned a deeper red when she pressed tightly against him. He tried keeping his eyes on her face, but they occasionally fell to her exposed flesh. Music soon followed.

  Myra struggled keeping in time with Halligan. His steps were wild and out of tune with the music. She groaned when he stepped on her feet, and embarrassment filled his face when he stepped on her dress, nearly tearing it off her body. Each bungled step made her stomach tightened, and she bit her cheek to keep herself from shouting.

  Halligan’s embarrassed face used to bring joy to her. His clumsiness always brought a chuckle out of her. It was a side of him she used to find adorable and endearing. Now, all it did was infuriate her. She glanced over at the other nobles and sighed.

  The women danced beautifully in the arms of their partners. The men moved gracefully with strong, confident strides. Their handsome smiles immediately drew her eye. Halligan was nothing like them. She found him plain looking, and his curly red hair looked disgusting. His movements were choppy. It reminded her of a fish floundering on the shore bank. I deserve better than this. Her anger grew as Halligan stepped on her foot again.

  “Myra, I want you to know something.” Halligan’s voice grated her ears. “I’m going to free you.”

  “What?”

  “I’ve made a deal with Lord Olivar.” Halligan whispered. “Once I’ve kept my end of the bargain, I’ll come for you. Then, we can go home. We can be together like we promised.”

  Go home, back to that dung heap of a village? The very idea of living in squalor, working to the bone for scraps, insulted her. She remembered the nights she had to go starving because it wasn’t her turn to eat. Watching her parents come home, covered in filth, with a few bronze coins.

  “What about your duties?” She countered. “You can’t simply abandon them.”

  “I won’t.” He stuttered, “But I wanted you to know that I still love you, and I’m coming for you.”

  “That’s sweet, Hal.” Myra forced a smile to her lips. “Thank you.” She pulled him down for a kiss, despite her stomach squirming in protest.

  Urielle’s stomach squirmed. The sight of Halligan kissing another woman made her queasy. She didn’t want to watch but she couldn’t stop herself. It reminded her of that night at the auction.

  It made her heart flutter, remembering him press her against the wall. The warmth of his lips stole her breath away. It was her first kiss, and she yearned for another.

  “Is everything alright Lady Saint.” Lady Meridith’s approach startled her.

  “Yes, I’m fine.” Urielle fanned her face, desperately trying to cool herself. Lady Meridith’s smile foiled her attempts.

  “Good luck.” She said, slowly walking off.

  Before Urielle could respond, fanfare filled the room. All eyes turned to the large double doors as the crier stepped forward in his colorful garb.

  “Ladies and gentlemen, the honored guests have arrived. I present Father Eirgn, Saint Ilda, and Thom Phyreheart of the House of Destiny.”

  The doors swung open, but a strong draft blew through the room blowing out the lanterns. The guest muttered as they were bathed in sudden darkness. Urielle scowled and looked around for a sliver of divine magic so she could banish the darkness, but there was none to be found. She couldn’t see any strand of mana to draw on.

  “Do not be alarmed!” Father Eirgn’s voice filled the hall. “The war drums echo on the horizon, refugees flee their stolen homes, and it feels like there is no hope on the horizon.” A small white light floated towards the center of the hall. “But there is hope. The Lady of Fate herself has set her eyes on Jericho. This city will not fall into the hands of the Wight King!” The light flew towards the ceiling and in a brilliant flash filled the room with a multitude of stars. “This is the gift from our goddess. The Lady of Fate has decreed that the city of Jericho will be known as the city among the stars.” Applause filled the room, but Urielle stared in shock. It was the woman she met at Baron’s house.

  The Saint of Destiny did well to disguise herself as a simple woman. Her hair pulled back into a braided bun, and a homely smile on her face. The babe swaddled against her chest aided her plain appearance. None would ever suspect her of being an agent of the Dead Gods.

  Urielle slowly made her way towards them. Thankfully, the light from the stars illuminated her way. Several guests gathered around them, the women cooing at the baby while the men laughed jovially.

  “I didn’t realize you were the saint?” Urielle smiled.

  “It’s good to see you again.” Ilda smiled back. “I was recently appointed to the position.”

  “Congratulations.” Confusion struck her as she looked at the child. “And who is this sweet child?”

  “My son Terron.” She pulled back the blanket. The baby slept soundly with his thumb in his mouth. In his other hand was a strand of necrotic mana.

  “He’s precious, and where’s his father?”

  Ilda’s smile faded. “He didn’t make it.” she whispered, “He was conscripted as soon as we crossed the border.”

  “I don’t think we met, Sir Thom. I’m Saint Urielle.”

  “We have met ma’am. Remember at master Baron’s manor.” The young man smiled brightly.

  Urielle took Thom in. The man she had met was middle-aged, yet the man in front of her looked to be at the peak of his life. His ruggedly handsome face made him pleasing to look at, unlike the Thom she met at the manor.

  “How?”

  “The Lady of Fate did this.” Thom laughed. “She was pleased with my faithfulness and restored my youth when I agreed to become her paladin.”

  “Then sign me up for service!” The nobles around them chuckled.

  Realization dawned on her. “Excuse me, I need to take my leave.” Urielle stuttered. She could feel Father Eirgn’s eyes on her as she left.

  Urielle panted as she moved through the hall. Her eyes desperately searched for Halligan, but the darkness made it difficult to find him. I must tell him! Fear drove her forward. Her frantic running drew attention.

  “That’s sweet Hal.” Myra voice caught her attention.

  Halligan stood in the corner, tucked away in the darkness, with Myra pressed against the wall. Urielle’s chest tightened at the sight, but her fear pressed her to approach.

  “I’m sorry to disturb you two, but I must speak with Halligan.” Urielle was thankful for the shadows.

  “Is something the matter Lady Urielle?”

  “Can’t you see Hal’s busy. Whatever you need to say can wait!” The silhouette of Myra’s hands drew Halligan closer.

  “Halligan please, it’s important!”

  “I’m sorry Myra.” Halligan said with a torn voice. “I need to go.”

  “Very well, I need to get back to Lord Olivar.” Myra replied coldly. Urielle hated to see Halligan longingly look after her.

  “What do you need to talk about?” he said.

  “The Tome, it’s still in the city!” she whispered.

  “I don’t understand?”

  “The Tome of Elithis that Sir Solomon took was a fake. The real one is still in the city.”

  Halligan scratched his head. “How do you know?”

  “Because we met the Saint and Paladin at Baron’s mansion, before they ascended.” Urielle cried, “That means they encountered the Dead God recently. We need to tell the Patron about this!”

  “Where is he?”

  A thundering boom filled the air. “Unhand me this instance!”

  Urielle squeaked when she heard the Patron’s voice. Suddenly, the lanterns reignited filling the room with light. Urielle went pale when she saw a group of armed men drag Patron Waldren into the hall. The priest was stripped down to his undergarments.

  “Sir Danian, what is the meaning of this?” The Duke stormed up to the men.

  “Forgive the intrusion, your Grace, but I felt you needed to know that there was an assault within your castle.” The knights threw the Patron to the ground. “My men found this man in one of the private chambers with a young girl.”

  “Who was it?” The Duke glowered at Patron Waldren.

  “It was Lady Priscilla’s guest.”

  “I didn’t do it!” Patron Waldren screamed.

  “Where is she, Danian?” Priscilla charged forward; tears formed in her eyes.

  “In your room, my lady. My men are keeping watch over her.” The words barely left his lips before Priscilla ran out of the room.

  “I didn’t do it! You must believe me!”

  “Your Grace, we found him like this on top of her. The girl’s dress was torn off.” Hushed murmurs filled the hall.

  “My home.” The Duke growled with red eyes. “You commit a despicable act in my home, and against my daughter’s friend no less. I should have you executed!”

  “You can’t!” Urielle called out. She was aware of everyone’s disgusted stares. “Patron Waldren is a member of the Church. Therefore, the Church will punish him.”

  “How do we know the Church will punish him accordingly?” Ilda stormed up. “He assaulted a child. He should suffer the harshest punishment immediately.” The crowd started cheering for her.

  “I didn’t do it, you foolish woman!”

  “We’ll see about that.” Ilda snapped, pointing at the Patron. Urielle gasped as mana streamed from her finger and wrapped around Waldren’s neck.

  “Where did you learn compulsion magic?” Urielle said.

  “The Lady of Fate taught me.” Ilda growled. “Now speak the truth, Patron. Have you ever assaulted a child?”

  Urielle looked at Ilda incredulously. “What does-”

  “Yes.” Urielle stared at the man in shock.

  “Did you use your position as Patron to do it?”

  “Yes.”

  “Were you found on top of a girl tonight?”

  “Yes but-”

  “Enough!” The Duke shouted. His eyes were bloodshot. “I will hear no more of this! Patron, for your crimes against my people, I punish you to death. Take him away!”

  Patron Waldren screamed as the knights grabbed him by the arms. The crowd scoffed at him as he cried for mercy. Urielle approached the Duke, but another group of soldiers burst into the room.

  “Urgent news, your Grace. There’s a revolt at the cathedral!”

  Silence fell over everyone as they stared in disbelief.