She gestured toward the door, and they walked together along the hall. Farnes had gone ahead to warn Captain Staeli they were coming.

When they reached the door leading to the battlement wall, from which they could take the stairs down to the training yard, Trynne paused, gripping the handle.

“The crown, my lord,” she said, nodding to the satchel. “Let them feel that you are their true king.”

Drew nodded in agreement and undid the straps of the satchel. His expression was conflicted as he drew out the ancient, tarnished crown. He stared at it for a moment, the light of the day glimmering off the metal band, but he did not put it on.

“What’s wrong, my lord?”

He glanced from the symbol of his power to her face, meeting her gaze. “I’m impressed that you’ve assembled such a force willing to fight for me, Trynne. I’m humbled, actually. You were the most prescient of us all.” He paused, gathering his words carefully. “But I’m struck by the realization that some of those maidens will die for me.” His free hand clutched at his tunic front, as if his heart were paining him. “How can I ask that of them?”

He gave her an imploring look. There was no doubt that he needed the additional support, but he was still reluctant to use it. Part of him still saw these warriors as innocents in need of protection.

Trynne felt a splash of insight in her mind. She turned to face him fully, her back to the door.

“My lord, let me try and put your mind at ease. Many women fear that they will die in childbirth. Yet despite that fear, we still willingly choose to bring life into this world.” Trynne turned her shoulder and gently patted the door. “Each one of these women who came to Averanche made the choice to be here. None were compelled. None were forced. If they die giving birth to your kingdom, is that not just as worthy a cause? They have chosen to be here, my lord. They have chosen to sustain you as their king. Their rightful king. I have been to Chandigarl and seen the opulence and riches there. But there is also a foulness to that kingdom that I don’t comprehend. I choose to fight for you, my true king and sovereign lord. And so do they.”

She could tell her words had struck him to his heart. Drew was silent for a moment, then he nodded to her and put the crown on his head. She felt the power of it radiating like sun melting the slush of snow.

“Thank you, Trynne Kiskaddon. A simple village maid once offered her help to the Prince of Occitania. And look what she accomplished.” He gave her a grateful smile and a nod. “Open the door.”