But the invitation had come to Abbeyfields, and so now Rosa waited while hounds barked at the bell’s chime. Lilyana had all but chased her out of the door, insisting she not hide away. Easy for her to say. Lilyana wasn’t cursed. Even if she were, Rosa suspected her faith would scarcely have buckled.

The door opened. Marek offered a stiff bow and ushered her inside.

“Good afternoon, Lady Orova. Lady Kiradin will be with you shortly.”

Rosa nodded, somewhat relieved at the delay. “Of course. Council business must come first.”

In the event, Rosa was left waiting scarcely a few seconds before Marek reappeared. He ushered her into a generously appointed sitting room at the mansion’s rear. The granite mantelpiece dominated a chamber of soft, tastefully upholstered armchairs. The gentle curves of the plaster cornice complemented perfectly the soft waves of the carpet’s weave.

“Roslava.” Ebigail rose in greeting, her arms extended in the formal greeting-clasp. “I’m glad you could make it. It’s not often I’ve cause to entertain a hero of the Republic. What is it they call you?”

Rosa winced. “The Reaper of the Ravonn. It’s a foolish name.”

“But one that speaks to heroism, I’m sure.”

Rosa took her host’s hands – palms down, as was customary for a guest – only to be surprised when the older woman leaned in to kiss her cheek. Either she’d misjudged Ebigail for a good many years, or she was now making an effort to compensate for earlier chilly receptions. She wasn’t sure what to believe – or even whether or not she wanted to believe.

“I was pleased to come. I haven’t spoken to Sevaka since . . . the day of the funeral. Malachi assures me she’s well, but it’s not the same as seeing for yourself.”

Ebigail gestured for her to sit. “I’m afraid my daughter will not be joining us. Her departure from the navy requires a certain amount of tedious protocol.”

“She’s resigning her commission?” This time, Rosa couldn’t keep the surprise from her voice. “I thought the life suited her.”

“It did,” Ebigail replied. “Perhaps a little too well. We decided it was time she came home.”

Rosa nodded her understanding. With Kasamor gone, Sevaka had Kiradin duties to uphold. Ebigail would insist.

“You will accept my word that Sevaka is in good health and spirits?” asked Ebigail.

“Of course.”

“Then you must also accept my thanks for delivering her from harm. It occurs to me that you have been a better friend to my family than I have deserved. It saddens me that I never thought to chide Kasamor for his blindness. Who can say how things might have worked out otherwise?”

Rosa blinked. “I’m sorry?”