13
“Don’t worry, son.” Father nervously scans the open grounds of the Ryder mansion. “She’ll be here any minute.”
By she, Father means Lady Adair. Today’s the infamous garden party I discussed with Aldred.
“I’m not worried, Father.”
Unfortunately, Mother is off attending another mourning ceremony for Kamal. That means Father believes he needs to keep me company while offering advice.
In a shocking turn of events, Father has been less than helpful.
I scan the scene. Young thrax lords and ladies step around the wide yard behind the mansion. Everyone wears formal garb, meaning gowns for ladies, tunics and mail for men. There’s a hedgerow maze, which many try to navigate. Small tables are set out with various drinks and snacks. We thrax love our cheese and mead.
Father bobs on the balls
