Kiss of Snow

2

I could tell how stressed she was, and my throat tightened at the thought of all the worries she’d inherited after the death of her father. We’d all inherited more responsibility since the loss of King Balsam—my father had retired and I’d been promoted into his place, but I loved my job. I loved protecting Lily. I loved…

I shook myself from my thoughts even as I stood perfectly still and alert in her presence. I couldn’t think about Lily and all she meant to me, not when the attack this morning in the forest was still so shrouded in mystery. Clearly, Lily wouldn’t be safe until we ascertained who was responsible and how they’d carried it out.

Magic was unfamiliar in Talador now that it had been forbidden for so long. King Balsam had outlawed it after the death of his first wife, and the penalties for anyone found to be practicing it were steep. With her new role, Lily faced a decision. Her own magic could be powerful. Rose’s was, after all. But would she follow in her father’s footsteps and keep magic forbidden, or would she open her country back up to people’s natural abilities?

I didn’t envy her decisions in these next few weeks and months, but I had faith in them. Lily considered everything with great care. She’d confided in me many times about how she wrestled with the best way to be a good daughter and a good monarch. Now that her moment was here, she didn’t need to worry. She would shine, and everyone in Talador would see her as I did.

At a sharp rap on the door behind me, I buried my thoughts and quickly stepped away, allowing whoever it was to enter at Lily’s quiet permission. Even her voice stirred feelings in me that I didn’t have a right to possess. The door opened, letting in a draft from the rest of the castle. Princess Dahlia walked into the room, her quiet steps barely making a noise as befitted the wife of the leader of the Ravens. She was also the King’s sister, and Lily’s aunt. For many years, Dahlia had acted as King Balsam’s adviser and de facto queen, when the role lay vacant between his wives.

Lily rose from her seat as Dahlia swept a curtsey. “Oh, don’t do that. We’re family, and you’ve practically been queen yourself for years.”

Dahlia brushed back a stray piece of dark brown hair in the same shade as Lily’s. “Things are different now that you’re going to be the true queen soon. In fact, that’s why I’m here. We need to discuss some important matters.”

“I have some time now. Sit. Please.” Lily indicated the small chaise in the corner of the office with a delicate wave of her hand. She walked from around her desk to join her aunt, her message to Rose set to one side for the time being. “Is something wrong?”

“We need to discuss your future.” Dahlia took Lily’s hands as they sat together, their bodies angled toward one another, their knees nearly touching. Both wore elegant dresses when they moved, Lily’s in a becoming shade of blue as it stretched across her breasts. I averted my gaze as my trousers tightened, focusing out of the window, although awareness of Lily bat like a second pulse inside my head.

“My future?” Lily asked.

"Your coronation is fast approaching, but the nobles have been talking. Grumbling, more like it. Your father's death was a surprise. No one expected it so soon. They're worried you’re a bit too young and inexperienced to take on the role as queen."

Lily dropped Dahlia’s hands and sat back sharply with a frown. "I've been training and preparing for my role as queen for my entire life. Why do they doubt my capabilities?"

"There is much turmoil in the kingdom, even with the recent peace with Ilidan. Tensions with Mesner are still high, and relations with the other kingdoms are uncertain. The nobles are not sure you can handle the challenges ahead of us."

Lily’s lips pressed together, and I could tell she was upset but trying to remain calm. “Who do they think would be a better queen?"

Dahlia folded her hands in her lap. "No one is questioning your right to be queen. Some have suggested that I act as regent until you're ready, but I have declined. I think you are more than ready for the role. But perhaps we should do something to allay the fears of the nobles."

"What is it you suggest we do?"

Dahlia looked Lily in the eye. “Something you won't want to hear, but something you know is necessary."

With a heavy sigh, Lily turned her head to look out the window at the snow-topped trees. “You wish me to find a husband.”

My chest clenched at the last word. Of course they would want Lily to marry. It made sense for the stability of the kingdom, but the very thought made my stomach heavy with dread.

"Yes,” Dahlia said. “I know your father urged you to do the same before he passed."

“He did, but I told him I wasn’t ready. I have so much to do, and still so much to learn. I have no time for a husband, especially if I’m trying to be a good queen to my people.”

Dahlia leaned forward. “I don’t believe you have the luxury of waiting on this. It’s important you’re crowned after you’re married, so your people can see a queen who is settled and stable and ready to rule.”

Lily stood and began pacing, something she did when she was frustrated. "I don't see why I should have to marry to solidify my right to be queen. No one asks such a thing of a king, do they?"

Dahlia looked down and sighed. "No, they do not. It is unfair, and I do not wish this forced upon you. However, I do think you should at least consider meeting with some suitors. Simply show the nobles that you are open to the possibility of marriage with some of the people they suggest, and it will do a lot to get them on your side. You don't actually have to marry any of them, if none of them suit you."