“Which makes me a Robber Baron, I suppose,” Kordas retorted, also laughing. It felt strange, as if he had not laughed for decades. But good. Very good. “I think I’ll keep that. Robber Baron Kordas of Valdemar.”

“It suits you,” said Ponu, from the end of the barge. “Now shut up and pass the wine.”

“Hey!” called Jonaton, from behind them. “Has anyone seen Sydney?”

Author’s Note

Special thanks to Arath Darastrix and Joshua Murcray for their research, to Ben Dobyns, Hudson Stryker, Scotter, Connor, and Mike Grodeman for their support, and in memoriam, Marc Curlee.

About the Author

Mercedes Lackey is a full-time writer and has published numerous novels and works of short fiction, including the bestselling Heralds of Valdemar series. She is also a professional lyricist and a licensed wild bird rehabilitator.