Prologue

King Harer Delos emerged from the shadows when High Healer Riin rushed into the critical care chamber. The four crescent moon markings on the man’s forehead were dark purple, and an infant was motionless in his arms. After placing her on the table, Riin attempted to breathe life back into the stillborn child. His efforts seemed in vain.

“The Boon child, sire,” he said gravely between breaths. “She was born with no spirit…”

Shocked, Harer backed out of the room to allow Riin privacy to work, praying he could somehow save the child. A gentle cry rose from behind and he turned to see a female Healer placing another newborn in an empty holding crib. She noticed him, bowed, and exited the room swiftly. He cursed softly; he had hoped that no one else would see him there. When the door shut, Harer approached the child to read the name.

“Infant Tyra,” he whispered. The sight of the child in the swaddling cloth filled him with joy. He pulled back the blanket, caressing her cheek with his finger. Her markings were clear and free of pigment; dark wisps of hair thinly covered her head. “You are a beauty, my princess.”

He picked her up, rocked her gently in his arms. His spirit soared as her tiny fingers curled around his thumb. A bond between them formed instantly; it was unlike anything he’d felt before. Surprised at the unquestionable love he suddenly felt for the tiny bundle in his arms, Harer’s mind began to wander.

His former lover, Ziola Tyra, continued to manipulate the situation. Concealing her pregnancy until he married another, forcing her way into the palace to seek him out, and threatening to reveal their secret if he didn’t come to the medical ward was proof she was determined to have her way. She would always have the upper hand. He refused to be at the beck and call of anyone, even the mother of his first-born. He had to find a way to rectify the situation.

Harer bounced his daughter tenderly in his arms and moved closer to the critical care door only to see Healer Riin placing a silk death shroud over the Boon child. His heart sank and felt his markings darkened. He could not fathom losing a child, especially now, but he knew, under the circumstances, that it would happen no matter what decision he made.

He lowered his eyes. A tear fell from his cheek, wetting the white markings of his daughter. Harer could do one thing to ensure the safety of his child and kingdom. He trusted one man with his life and now he would trust him with the life of his daughter. He lingered for a while, feeling his heart breaking as he watched the joyous gift writhing in his arms. Harer kissed her softly and whispered his promise of love and protection.

Before entering the chamber, he called one of his guardians to ready his hovercraft to ensure a swift exit. High Healer Riin turned with a solemn expression on his face. The king placed his daughter in Riin’s arms. “You will present this child to the Boon family as if their own.”

“What of the Lady Tyra?” he asked, confusion crossing his features.

“I will handle her. Inform your staff that Lady Tyra’s child did not survive but you saved the Boon child. I trust that you understand what is at stake here. You are to speak of this to no one. Am I clear?”

“Yes, your Majesty.”

© Jenn Nixon