***

 

King Fasred and Prince Landis rode out to meet us with another small group of soldiers, strengthening our numbers to almost forty. “The rest will come with the Queens,” the King said, greeting my father with a fist to his heart.

“It's good to have you,” Father said warmly, returning his salute.

Landis grinned at me. “Tisha wanted to come, but she's busy with wedding preparations.”

I gasped. I had completely forgotten that they set the date for a month out, far sooner than anyone had expected. “Congratulations; I'm sorry I haven't said anything earlier. I'm so happy for you,” I said in a rush; embarrassment colored my cheeks.

Landis grinned cheerfully. “You've had a lot on your mind, Kit. We understand as long as you promise to be there.”

“I promise,” I said sincerely.

We fell in behind our fathers. Rory and Landis caught up on the time they had spent apart and my thoughts bounced around like a hundred grasshoppers.