Among Lords & Ladies

Chapter One

Lehana slipped quietly into the anteroom, taking the young maid by surprise; who almost snapped at her, but realized who she was and dropped into a deep curtsy. Lehana gave a quick smile. “I’ll handle this. I wish to pay my respect.”

The maid hesitated but nodded before handing the tray over. If she’d been one of the noble born women volunteering for a menial task would’ve seemed suspicious. But it was only a paltry meal of weak, glorified broth the cook called soup. She could balance it with one hand while edging the door open with the other.

“Omolara, is that you? What took you so long?” The question held a hint of irritation but the voice was too quiet.

She didn’t respond. Servants were rarely required to. Moving to Lady Ahurewa’s bedside she was almost sorry to see her in this state. Her already light brown skin was pale and golden brown hair lay plastered to her skin, covered by a sheen of sweat. They weren’t far apart in age but the past few weeks had aged the lady prematurely. Rumors said the illness would take her after a few months. Lehana didn’t have the time to wait. Her most trusted spy intercepted a letter in Ahurewa’s handwriting that made her anger flare. The woman thought she could have Mikaere assassinated. A year ago her plan may have succeeded. But today, Lehana loved her husband. She almost snorted as she looked at the ill woman, whose sharp eyes may have seen what she was capable of; if they hadn’t been clouded over in pain. She took the small packet of snake venom out of her sleeve and mixed it into the soup. Feeding it to Ahurewa, she waited until the first convulsion shot through her before speaking.

“You have only a few moments.”

Ahurewa tried to focus on her but couldn’t.

“Send a letter to him, a warning. Before you,” she grimaced as she stood. “Make a mess of the bed.” Ahurewa cried out but she ignored it as she casually strode to her writing desk. Taking a sheet she whispered a spell over it that would put Ahurewa’s words on paper. As she dropped it next to her Lehana said, “Don’t tell him to flee. We know who he is.” Sitting back down, she waited until her order was followed. And she was sure Ahurewa was dead.

**

Lehana snuffed out the mourning candle. Mikaere sat next to her trying to look appropriately somber. Neither had any great sympathy for Lady Ahurewa but she'd been one of the king’s many cousins. They had to at least give an appearance of sorrow. Lehana didn't know if Mikaere had discovered the plot against him, or what she'd done to stop it. As he stood and gave Ahurewa's portrait a long stare, she wondered what he would think. The thought surprised her and she let out a quiet breath in wonder.

"Something wrong?" Her husband looked at her with a curious expression.

Regaining her composure she stood and met his gaze. "Only the death of a cousin." She tried to keep the sarcasm out of her voice but by the slight furrow of his brow, she didn't entirely succeed.

He chose to ignore it and turned to leave. It irked her that he just expected her to follow, but she did. Two years later and they were still the subject of many court rumours. Mikaere was the king's most celebrated general but it was still an unpopular decision when Xolani married him to Lehana as a bargaining chip in a peace treaty. There was only one other reason she pretended to be more submissive, and a bit more cold, than she actually was. If he found that out...she turned from the wrenching thought of rejection. Assuming it was the funeral mood, however false, that led to her thoughts she put them aside. They left the small temple and immediately eyes turned to them. She had her face covered with a white veil and wore a simple gown, decorated with an amethyst between her breasts. Her hair on the other hand was held in a high ponytail and fell to her shoulders, framing her face in a dark brown cloud. It took all of her willpower not to walk ahead of Mikaere with her chin held high. Instead she stood by as he performed the expected courtesies. A perfunctory nod was the most acknowledgement she got. Once he spoke to everyone they hurried back to their rooms.

**

Once there, they settled into a normal routine. Or at least she thought so at first. She was in no hurry to change, instead making a show of holding up various pieces of jewelry that arrived. The fashion was mostly unimpressive but she'd become acutely aware of Mikaere watching her every move. When she reached the last piece she had no choice but to look at him. Instantly she regretted that. He sat in the window, sunlight illuminated him from behind and gave his ruddy complexion an eerie glow. He'd removed his formal tunic and draped it over a nearby chair. A long scar ran diagonally from his left shoulder to his hip. Smaller scars covered his sides and arms. Lehana wasn’t repulsed by the sight, she’d seen worse. Lehana felt her heart flutter in excitement before thudding against her chest.

"Sarh tells me you visited her."

"Did he?" She gave an indifferent shrug. To herself she added, "We'll need to have a talk about that." The man should be grateful his absence would be noted.

She turned and started to walk to her bed chamber, her mind already at work. Suddenly Mikaere was behind her. She had no time to react before he spun her around. She was captured by his amber eyes.

"Yes. He did." He surprised her by stepping forward until she was pressed against the door. "And I'm curious. What do two women who spit daggers have to speak about?"

She pretended to take offense. "I don't spit." She wrinkled her nose; feeling the flutter move to her stomach when he smirked. Without looking she turned the doorknob. "You're mistaking this for a battlefield, my lord. We solve our problems with words." She dashed into the room.

He held the door open. "This isn't a battlefield? It seems I've been mistaken for a long time." His voice held a hint of humor but she wasn't fooled. Did he suspect her?

She wrapped her hair around her finger and idly inspected it. "Forgive my mistake. If you'd be so kind..."

He removed his hand and gave her a bow that managed to be formal and sarcastic.



She closed the door, her hand lingered on the knob for a few seconds before she moved to sit on her bed. How many people had Sarh spoken too? If a servant of another lord overhead him....Mikaere was an honorable fool, a lovable one but a fool nonetheless. He'd urge her to accept their judgement, which would undoubtedly be death. Unless she managed to find the plan beneath the plan of his attempted assassination, the royals could then fight amongst themselves for all she cared; as long as they were left alone. She couldn't help a childish giggle as she fell back, hands folded on her chest.

**

Mikaere didn't understand his wife. He didn't know if her disinterest was in him or life in the castle. He'd understand if she harbored some resentment about their marriage but she rarely spoke anything but pleasantries. Instead it sat between them like a gleeful predator, waiting for an unwary moment. He sighed and went into his own room. Changing into a simple tunic and trousers, he prepared to meet the group of young recruits that had recently arrived. But as he pulled on his leather boots he couldn't help remembering Lehana's words. We solve our problems with words. Commoners knew very little magic here and she'd promised to adhere to their laws. He had no doubt she detested the sudden limitation, but had she gone back on her word? The possibility nagged at him but he did his best to ignore it; buckling on his sword. He paused before his wife's door just long enough to hear a giggle. It was a rare sound that brought an unbidden smile to his face. And the spark of curiosity.

**

Summer, a year ago

Lehana picked up her skirt as she ducked through the gap underneath the stairs. She'd gotten into the habit of coming here the year before, when Mikaere sent her to his summer mansion. It was modest for a noble which led to a relatively small staff, and allowed her to find a tunnel that led to a hidden room. At the time she hadn't wondered if her husband knew of it. He must've, it lay beneath his study. Putting her shoulder against the warped wood, she pushed against it until the door opened with a pop. She ducked into the room. Konani, Iekika, Hokulani, and Akamu already waited for her. Iekika lay sprawled across the floor while Hokulani played with her colorful beads. At ten they were the youngest and, if either had parents, their long absences would be noticed. Konani and Akamu, fourteen and twelve respectively, were in the same position but the villagers were happy to have the two trouble makers out of their hair. Akamu sat sulking in the corner and Lehana soon saw why. Konani had managed to heat her own food without burning it. Or giving it, brief, life and mobility. Her light brown eyes glittered with satisfaction as she shoveled meat and rice into her mouth.

"If you eat any faster you'll swallow the spoon."

Konani stuck out her tounge.

"Hey little ones." She laughed as they barreled into her. She barely stayed on her feet. "Now have you all been practicing?"

She sat back and watched as they tried to impress her. For the past three weeks she'd taught them more complex heating spells to warm themselves during the winter, a stronger "push" to open more than an old door, and healing spells after Iekika fell into the river. She fell onto a rock, giving her a gash that led from her knee to her ankle. Lehana wasn't nearly as skilled in healing magic but for the girl's sake she acted the part of 'all knowing mother'. She wasn't surprised when she continued to keep that from them. It wouldn't matter soon. Even an orphan girl may be married off, if only to tame her, then what would it matter what Lehana taught them? An orphaned boy may fare better but it wasn't certain. The thought pained her. Would a family care enough to consider them for marriage? Would they be loved or suffer the pain of suspicious, hateful glares as she did. She realized she was being shaken.

"You aren't paying attention." Akamu pressed his lips together to keep them from quivering.

She cast her eyes downward. "Accept my humble apologies, my lord."

There was a short silence before they erupted in laughter. She could almost pretend she didn't feel a familiar pang.

**

Present Day



Tekukuni paced in his office, the library was silent since he dismissed his aides. His hands were clasped tightly behind his back, nails digging into his skin; dark hair in an unusual state of disarray.

“How can this be?” This thought had gone through his mind since he heard the news. “How could she be dead? Who could be strong enough to kill her?”

He thought of the court members. His mind turned to Lady Anahera and Lady Moana Ngaire first; twins who were famous for their eyes that changed to match the viewer’s preference, and an otherworldly grace. They were the most involved in travelling the border between worlds, but never truly crossed. Lady Ahurewa would’ve torn them apart however near she was to death. Tekukuni’s thoughts turned to Paora Patariki but quickly dismissed him. A man who murdered without a second thought would normally grab his attention. But Paora’s open admiration, sometimes affair, laid any doubts to rest. He doted on Ahurewa despite his marriage to Lady Roimata, second cousin to King Xolani and much more well off. She was more beautiful too, her coarse hair fell in waves and her smooth tan skin glowed from the scented oils she used. He pulled his thoughts reluctantly from her. He had to dismiss her also. The royal family was not patient. If Roimata was angry enough to plan an assassination, it would’ve been fifteen years ago at the birth of Hemi, Ahurewa’s illegitimate son. He may feel some resentment for being sent away when his parentage was discovered, but he also proved to be inept at magic. A knock interrupted his thoughts. He turned to see Governor Kauri’s spy leaning against the door. His stomach churned.

“A message needs to be sent.”

Tekukuni nodded and tried to keep his hands from shaking.

**

Soon after dinner had been served Lehana changed into a grey, long sleeved tunic and tights, and boots just high enough to conceal a dagger. Wrapping a threadbare scarf like a hood she prepared herself to meet Friulfo, the man hired to kill her husband, glad now that she hadn't ordered Ngome to turn him in to the king. Sneaking out was easy. Most of the nobility had eaten or drunk themselves into a stupor. All except Moana, the king's brother, who watched Mikaere and then her with a knowing smile. She tried to put it down to another of his eccentricities but it unnerved her. Mikaere would spend the night with the commanders and lower soldiers. Sarh left once dinner finished. Not one of the nobility, he was invited because he was held in high esteem by Mikaere and therefore the king. This time she made sure he was far away before setting her plan in motion. That didn't stop her from being cautious as she passed the training wing, not wanting to be spotted by a boy anxious to please his teachers. Lehana approached a gate that was checked enough to be free of moss but mostly deemed unimportant. She used it to leave the palace and walk down a dirt path leading into the woods. Ngome used a nearby cave when he questioned people. Lehana had never felt the need to come herself, but court politics were coming closer than she liked. In the growing darkness only a torch sticking out of the ground let her know where the cave was. As she drew closer the light dwindled until it went out completely. Someone grabbed her wrist and pulled her in.

"He's in the back." Ngome's bass voice shook her even though he spoke in a hushed tone. Harsh magic lay as an undercurrent to his words. He lit another torch and she saw sickly green chains writhing over Friulfo's body.

She crouched down. "Friulfo, look at me."

His head snapped around and she was amused by the hatred she saw there. "Who hired you to kill Mikaere?"

Friulfo clenched his teeth and sweat broke out on his forehead. But he eventually answered, giving her a name that momentarily left her speechless. "Ariki Iro." Xolani Tabua's brother in law who ruled a southern territory.

Composing herself she said, "You carried a letter written by Lady Ahurewa. Why?"

"I was to meet with her." He tried to stop, his breathing becoming laboured. Sweat dripped down his face and his auburn hair clung to him. "After her servant brought me in...she would give me further instruction." A growl escaped his throat.

"That does not explain why Irihapeti's brother would hire an assassin." Ngome whispered in her ear.

She waved him away absently. Friulfo was a slight man, barely taller than her. He had olive skin but it was tanned and he sat curled like a man used to the shadows. How would he have ever met a prince? "Tell me why. Why did Ariki send you?" The anger in her voice sent a sharp pain through him; Friulfo jerked. He gave a shaky laugh and she cursed. He didn't know. "Release him."

Ngome raised one thin eyebrow, meticulously groomed. She shot him a look and he obeyed. Friulfo lunged...and impaled himself on her dagger.

"This is a fine mess we're in." Ngome said as Friulfo's body slumped to the ground.

Lehana cleaned her dagger, deep in thought.

Chapter 2

Lehana walked through the crowded market despite the afternoon heat, absently looking over wares. Prince Ariki couldn’t want Mikaere dead. Not personally, he had to be after something else. The thought gave her some relief. Maybe the prince would turn his attention elsewhere. One general, however popular, couldn’t be worth losing an important ally? If he persisted she would kill whoever he sent.
“Simple” Lehana thought, stopping before a vendor selling gummy fruit. They were Mikaere’s favorite but she hadn’t seen him eat any since his last trip overseas. After some wheedling he’d convinced her to try one, laughing when she made a face; the treats were coated in sugar. It was the first time she heard him genuinely laugh. And while he was away she realized her feelings had changed. Lehana looked up and met Ngome’s gaze. She felt embarrassed, as if he could see how far her mind had wandered. His face remained impassive though and she couldn’t gauge his emotions. She moved to approach him but someone bumped into her as they passed. She started to mumble an apology until she noticed the malicious smile on one of the girls. Her hair was held in a bun, expensive gems strewn throughout, and she wore a light blue dress that flowed over ample hips.
Marika, the king’s favorite niece said, just loud enough for Lehana to hear, “She’s the wife of Mikaere Elisara. It’s a shame, such an attractive man deserves someone who would…fully appreciate him.” She picked up a golden necklace with inlaid rubies and a jade pendant.
Lehana felt as if she’d been punched. She was only vaguely aware of Ngome leading her away. She started to speak but he silenced her with a soft touch.
“If he cares for her word, he’s a fool.”
She was too shocked at his attempt to comfort her to do anything but nod dumbly. Her confusion was soon replaced by anger and he gave her distance, a grin fighting to replace his blank stare. As they neared the tavern they saw Sarh exit. Nothing noteworthy until a man followed him a moment later. He was lean and tall like a boy who just reached adulthood, but with enough muscle to be a threat. He also had a sword tied to his hip with an official insignia on it. Lehana glanced at Ngome.
He grunted. “Love is inconvenient.” But he followed her nonetheless.

**

Sarh threw a few coins on the bar as he left the tavern. He didn't notice a small figure break from the crowd and follow him. He enjoyed the silence. Any other day he wouldn't have seen Lehana slink through the halls and into Lady Ahurewa's room. Her face was set, intention for something written in every line of her body. Sarh stayed away from the inner workings of the court, but Mikaere wouldn't be spared her punishment. Did she deserve it? Ahurewa was near death and expected to pass soon. Any of the nobility could've seen this as a chance to increase wealth. But a sickening feeling made him follow her instead of meeting with the other commanders. He couldn't go into the room; on the chance she was really invited. Now he wondered if he made a mistake. The reports of attacks on coastal cities in the west didn't weigh as heavily on him. Those cities were under the control of Governor Kauri, it was his responsibility. He was nearing his house, a street away from the castle, when he heard the whisper of a sword being unsheathed. He stumbled as a hard kick from behind knocked him down an alley. By the time he drew his own sword and spun around his attacker knocked it aside, landing a hard punch to his ribs. Gritting his teeth against the pain, he moved to counter but a blade pressed lightly against his throat.
"Where is General Elisara?"
He pursed his lips. He tried to get a glimpse of his attacker. His reward was a blow that left his ears ringing. But it told him the man was at least his height.
"You know where he is, tell me."
There were loud footsteps behind them that drew his attention.
Sarh took the chance to jam his elbow into the man's ribs. He had a moment of recognition, before slamming him against the wall.

"We need him well enough to talk."
Sarh started, but hid his shock before Lehana saw. A tall man stood behind her. He had the air of a lord but took the place of a manservant. If not for the deadly look on his face Sarh might've believed it.
"Lady, you needn't worry..."
She stopped him with a look then fixed her gaze on his attacker. "Were you to meet with Friulfo?"
His eyes flashed to her face too quickly. Looking away, he remained silent.
"You knew of him." Her eyebrows raised in a semblance of interest. "Perhaps you were his way into the castle?" She got no answer and she sighed. "Ngome, please."
Ngome spoke a word in a harsh voice that didn't fit his waif-like appearance. Magic sent a sudden, piercing coldness through him. The man cried out as chains grew over him; Burning as they went.
"How did you know of him?"
He fought; Lehana looked surprised, and pleased, at how long. He cried out and, falling to his knees, said, "He was my brother. Once we were together, we'd kill General Elisara."
Lehana made a sympathetic noise. "I'm sorry for your loss." Her expression didn't change when fury twisted his features. He tried lunging but fell over. Ngome stepped forward but she held him back. Lifting the man's face she asked, "Why would such a young man risk his life so foolishly?"
"There will be others." To their surprise he summoned raw magic that cracked Ngome's chains. It was enough to free him.
Sarh struck out with his sword. Instead of running the man through, it melted. He had to drop the hilt or risk serious burns. He felt Ngome's magic building around him, slowly snuffing out the raw magic that felt hotter than any fire. While the man was distracted Sarh tackled him into the wall, gritting his teeth against the pain of warring magics. The young man gave a final push that flung him into a pile of garbage. He pushed himself up just in time to see Ngome running by.

Lehana helped him stand. "Who was that?"
"Cusea Burgos. He was among those chosen to serve Governor Kauri." He'd first seen Cusea over a year ago when King Xiolani sent them to put down the beginnings of an uprising, and to secure his dominance there. Cusea had been among those thought to be loyal. "Lord Mikaere had little contact with the boy."
Lehana didn't look surprised and he found himself wondering about her aloofness. He started to question her but she cut him off. He felt his temper flare but held his tongue.
"You need to find him."
He searched her face for any emotion. But she remained closed off and he finally nodded.
Her shoulders relaxed slightly. "Next time take better care."
He gave a grim smile and she ran in the opposite direction Ngome had gone. Not for the first time he wondered exactly who his friend was married to. Pushing the thought aside he went to find Mikaere.

**

Mikaere sat in his office looking through sheets of weekly offenders. The barracks were next door and even now he could hear the rowdy laughter of stragglers. He rubbed a hand over his face, stifling a yawn. His pen tapped a monotonous note against the pad. He found his mind wandering to that morning, when he'd gone to make sure Lehana was in her room. After knocking he'd opened the door to find her writing at her desk. To his surprise, she wore only a white robe that fell off her shoulders. One hand holding it closed. Her hair was disheveled as if she’d woken up and gone immediately to work. He took in every detail. Noticing how her brown skin glowed in contrast to the robe, how her hair curled around her face. When he spoke he sounded more hesitant than he wanted to. The corner of her mouth twitched. "My lady?" He cleared his throat and tried again. Glad that his voice sounded more firm. "Is there something wrong?"
"It's a...woman's issue." She gave him a small smile, hiding the letter away. Standing she asked, "Do you need me, my lord?"
He shook his head stiffly. "Not at the moment. I only wanted to see that you were well."
She walked across her bedroom to a partition in the corner. "I'm flattered." She murmured before stepping behind it to change.
"I'll send Apikalia." With that he fled from the room, cursing himself and the reason for their marriage.
A sudden pounding on the office door broke him out of his reverie. "Come in."
Sarh rushed in, saw him, and then breathed a sigh of relief. He saluted and then said, out of breath, "I'm glad to see you safe, Mikaere."
"Why wouldn't I be safe?"
Sarh closed the door. "There's an assassin after you."

Mikaere stood abruptly. "What do you mean? How do you know this?"
Sarh explained how Cusea Burgos attacked him in the alley. He stopped and looked away for a second but it was enough for Mikaere to know he was holding back.
"What else happened commander?"
He looked back at him. "I...he revealed nothing else."
"What else commander?"
Sarh took a deep breath, and let it out slowly. "Lady Lehana was witness to the attack."
Mikaere felt a sharp pain shoot through his chest as his heartbeat sped up. "Was she hurt?"
Sarh shook his head. "There was a man with her. She called him Ngome."
Mikaere rushed to strap on his sword. He knew no one by that name. "Was the assassin killed?"
"No, sir. He managed to escape, Ngome gave chase. Lady Lehana wanted me to find you."
"She was left alone?" Mikaere crossed the room with brisk steps and threw open the door. He tried to keep the worry out of his voice. "Alert the others. I'm going to find her."

**

Lehana was waiting by a clothing stall when a group of soldiers ran by. Their expressions varied from frustration on most to excitement on the younger men. None of them were grim and she had to take comfort in that. She'd rather have gone after Cusea but once again, Sarh had seen her. If she'd gone with Ngome it wouldn't take long for him to realize she still used magic. Next time she'd have to take care of him somehow. Damn this sudden conscience of hers. She couldn't bear to see Mikaere mourn his longtime friend. She heard a bird cry and almost ignored it but realized it was not a native one. Looking over her shoulder she saw Ngome sitting with his back to her on a bench. She walked over to him, making sure to keep her attention on anything else.
"Did you find out why he was sent?" She fiddled with her hood to hide her lips.
"No, he got away. But he dropped this." He let a worn letter fall beside him and then stood, making a show of walking around and stretching while Lehana picked it up.
She tucked it into her basket. "I'll find you if it means anything."
He nodded. He started to turn away but stopped. "I passed General Elisara. He's looking for you."
That made her pause. "You're sure? He may be looking for the assassin."
Ngome held her gaze for a few moments before shaking his head slightly. "He's looking for you. He went to the inn, but he asked for you."
Lehana nodded and Ngome walked away. She allowed herself a small smile as she set off back the way she'd come. She itched to read the letter, but she couldn't bring herself to stop. She wandered until she saw Mikaere talking to a merchant.
Lehana let concern fill her voice when she asked, "Lord Mikaere?"

He turned and she almost laughed at the relief evident on his face.
He pulled her into a hug and she gasped, tensing up. "Are you hurt?" He whispered against her hair.
She could only shake her head. Then he suddenly stepped away, his expression was conflicted. Squaring his shoulders he walked away. She struggled to keep up with him. He moved so fast she was almost running to keep up. Lehana was unsure what to make of his mood. Did he pull away so quickly because he mistook her shock for displeasure? Or could he suspect the incidents were connected? She dismissed that, she told Sarh nothing. She kicked herself mentally as she replayed the scene over and over, until she almost ran into him. Looking around she saw they were back at the castle.
"Lehana?" He was studying her face.
She stuttered, realizing he'd been speaking.
Mikaere sighed. "You don't venture out of the castle often. I asked what lured you out?"
"Nothing so sinister I assure you. I wished to see the market."
"With no guard from the castle?"
She felt her mouth go dry from uncertainty. "No, my lord."
As they crossed the castle's bridge he held out his arm for her, lowering his voice. "It's not safe for you to travel alone."
She almost agreed, but caught the lie just in time. Sarh must've told him about Ngome. He glanced at her sideways but she pretended not to notice. "I was not alone for long."
He made a noise. She could almost take it as jealousy, but she knew better. They both fell silent as they approached the castle doors. Once inside Mikaere led her to a large room. Three floor-to-ceiling windows looked over the royal gardens. Dark red carpets covered the floor, matching curtains fluttered in the breeze. A bed with an elaborately carved wooden frame, various colored veils hung around it, sat on the far side of the room. Lounging benches covered with bright pillows were scattered about.
"This is one of the queen's rooms," she cried.
"Yes. This boy will not dare to attack you here. I'll come back once Cusea is found."
Before she could react he pulled her into another hug. He ran one hand through her hair, knocking off her hood. And then he was gone without looking back. The letter in her basket was forgotten.

**

Cusea sat in a room looking at King Xolani's castle. The heightened guard was noticeable and he doubted he'd be able to get back into the castle before nightfall. He could hear Tekukuni's family moving around, unaware of his presence, but he couldn't have spoken to them had he wanted to. His mind was preoccupied. Not a trained witch he had only a basic control of magic, and he needed full concentration to heal himself. It was slow and painful. He gritted his teeth as burned skin, that had split while he was chased, stitched itself back together. After what seemed like hours he was able to stand using the wall to lean on. His mind turned immediately to the people who'd fought him. The commander had no magic and his death should've been certain. But that woman and her servant, where did they come from? Why did they help? He inadvertently shuddered as a chill ran through him. The man's magic still lingered and he felt like death's claws were touching his core. What was that kind of magic doing here? He moved over to the trunk he'd been given and reached for a new shirt. His fingers paused inches from it, a smile forming.
"So that is the Lady Lehana. There may be a way after all."