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An Indecent Proposal
"I can explain…" Aurora spoke quickly. "I am sorry that you were deceived. We do not know who are friends and foes in the land of magic. We did not mean harm or offense."
"We shall let the matter pass for now," the King said magnanimously, "and hope in time this insult will be remedied."
Aurora was relieved. The tension in the room lightened. Queen Lanassa spoke next, "How have you found your accommodations? Do they meet with the standard of your palace?"
"They are quite wonderful," Aurora answered candidly.
"And have you found the elven people…inviting? I believe Prince Ithel and Lord Alvar personally attended you last night." Zoltan motioned to the prince on his right.
"Everyone has been most kind," Devrim answered.
"I was told you were rescued from the gnomes by an elf yesterday," Lanassa added.
Aurora looked toward Brinn, but the elf was staring ahead stoically. Except for the outburst at Aurora's title, she had been
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Aurora was scanning the grounds of the garden as Ithel approached. "Your Majesty," he said with a bow. "The guards and I have been looking for you everywhere. I am pleased that you are safe." He notice the Empress was staring past him. "Are you looking for something?""Prince Ithel," Aurora curtsied. "Forgive me. I was just looking for Princess Brinn and Devrim.""I saw my sister grab the man and pull him into those bushes. I think they mean so spy on us." Ithel pointed to a group of bushes a short way off. His voice was playful."Do not flatter yourself," Brinn called from the shrubs. We are berry picking." There was movement and both Devrim and Brinn emerged from the greenery. There were leaves sticking out of Brinn's bright red hair."Berry picking? That is the new term for spying, is it?" Ithel was clearly amused.Brinn had no response. She motioned for Devrim to follow, and she stormed off through the garden. "You and your sister do not seem t
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Empress of the World Making an Escape II
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