The doorway looked dark and foreboding, the old wood seeming a little more scarred and battered than before – there had been some fighting here, it seemed. Janaxia raised her hand and raised the metal bar, letting it thud into the wood. The street was empty, the music that had flowed down from the rooftop gardens now silent.

A few moments later the door opened, seemingly of its own accord until Stathis looked down, to see a small figure dressed in a black dress with a white apron over the top, slightly messy hair kept under some kind of control by a frilled head-band. She looked at them blankly, then tried to slam the door shut, Janaxia gesturing and dark energy appearing to hold it in place. She squeaked, letting go of the door and jumping backwards, her hand sliding beneath her apron, coming back with a small, but very sharp looking, knife.

‘There is no need for violence, little one. Although I was not aware that Misutira had taken on help. I certainly hope that you are earning your keep!’ Janaxia gestured, forcing the door wider open, then sweeping in, long dress fluttering behind her. Skotadi emulated her posture, although wasn’t that much taller than the junior maid, Stathis trailing along behind them.

It did look a lot cleaner and tidier inside – the walls had been re-painted, and everywhere was polished, all the ornaments now dust-free, metal and horn gleaming in the low light. Stathis heard several tapping footsteps, and then Misutira stepped into view. Her previous maid’s outfit was rather different now – her skirt was cut high on one leg, a garter holding several long and sharp-looking needles, her sleeves and bodice tight and sleek, heeled knee-high boots clicking onto the floor as she moved.

As soon as she saw Janaxia, she dipped her head and pulled on her apron, making a curtsey. ‘Lady Janaxia! I was not expecting you. Salma, this is your mistress, you should show your respects.’

The young woman made a vague and sloppy curtsey as Janaxia responded.

‘Sadly, this will be a quick visit. There is a matter that must be discussed with Kinnevar. And I must commend your style – Skotadi, I do hope you are taking notes?’

There was a flash of darkness, Skotadi blinking across the room, a blade of shadows suddenly appearing in Misutira’s hand for a second before vanishing. Skotadi was tugging at Misutira’s dress, feeling the fabric, Misutira trying to ignore her.

‘Lord Kinnevar was resting when last I checked, but may be up soon. I have just prepared some Sethan tea, if you wish, we could take that down? And I must apologise in advance, but there is a certain amount of… mess down there, from the recent upsets. Salma, if you could entertain… Lady Skotadi, was it?’

The two young women looked at each other, mutual expressions of grudging annoyance covering their features. Janaxia nodded. ‘Yes, it will do Skotadi good to associate with others of similar age. Perhaps a visit to a nearby café? That should be a nice treat for the two of you. And, Skotadi – behave yourself! Take this as a chance to learn, and make friends.’

‘Eugh. Yes, Janaxia.’

Stathis had to rummage through her pockets to find some coins to hand over as Skotadi detached herself from Misutira, staring at Salma, who was staring back. If they were cats, they would have been prowling and sniffing at each other, seconds from trying to prove their positions! Janaxia clicked her fingers. ‘Go and enjoy yourself. Go and see how others take their pleasure. Just try not to cause any problems.’

Both the young women slouched down the hallway, shoulders slumped in identical grudging obedience, the door opening, and then slamming shut behind them.

‘How has Kinnevar been?’

‘He sleeps, mostly. Although he has been kind enough to provide some level of training to me.’ She gestured, conjuring up the dark blade again. ‘It was useful during the recent turbulence.’

‘It seems you endured though. And you have certainly been busy here – the place is much improved!’

‘Thank you, Lady Janaxia.’ There was a mew from around Misutira’s ankles, a fat street-cat winding around her ankles, rubbing against her, before sniffing at Janaxia uncertainly. ‘My apologies, the creature refuses to leave. Although is useful at keeping vermin away.’

The cat rubbed itself against Janaxia, butting a fluffy head against her silk dress, then nibbling at the blue fringe.

‘If it earns its keep, then it may stay.’ She turned, the flick of her dress pushing the cat away. She led the way into the basement, the temperature dropping, floor starting to get slick with condensed water. Kinnevar’s enchanted door was ahead of them, Janaxia waggling her fingers until it started to slide open, even cooler air rushing out.

The floor inside was covered with a thin layer of ice, Misutira’s pointed heels puncturing holes through it with every step, making sharp cracking noises, the spikes higher than even most of Janaxia’s. Kinnevar was sat on his throne, hulking armour cold and passive, not responding even when Janaxia spoke to him. Several dead bodies were encased in blocks of ice, their skin withered and leathery, signs of violent death obvious.

‘Lady Janaxia, if I may?’ Misutira was holding one of her sharpened needles, reaching out and taking one of Janaxia’s hands, then pricking a fingertip. Blood welled up, Janaxia squeezing her fingertip until there was a large bead there, which she then pressed against Kinnevar’s helm.

‘While he wakes, I will prepare food and drink.’ She curtseyed, then turned away, skirt flicking out to reveal her other leg.

Janaxia pulled her fingertip away from Kinnevar’s forehead, the blood leaving a melted mark in the ice. A faint red flow entered his eye-sockets, ice starting to creak as he slowly moved, sheets of it falling from his armour. Icicles fell from his horns, shattering on the floor.

Janaxia curtseyed. ‘Good afternoon, Kinnevar.’

The red eye-sockets got brighter, metal scraping as the helm turned to look at Janaxia.

‘Ah, Janaxia!’ The blink was somewhat unnerving, red lights blinking out for a second. ‘And Stathis. It seems you were successful in your journeys. Misutira was telling me there were some upsets?’

‘Yes, things have been rather… stressful. But the Book, Bell and Blade are now at peace. Well, mostly. But that isn’t what I wanted to discuss.’ Janaxia took a step back, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with Stathis, sliding her hand into Stathis’. ‘Saltstone is shattered, and will be many years to repair.’

‘It was a rather unpleasant place. Far too damp and marshy for my tastes. So, your mother is dead?’

‘She is. With no signs of returning. As are the majority of my siblings – I believe only Trakatha and Kivata are left. Oh, and Greganx in a dungeon, somewhere. Kivata is quite firmly under control, while Trakatha doesn’t have the will or desire to succeed, if she still lives. So I am asking that you confirm my position as the head of the family, by dint of survivorship.’ Her grip on Stathis’ hand was tight, nails prickling against her hand.

‘If you believe yourself worthy of such, then the name is yours. Not that it ever wasn’t – you have more right to it, by dint of grace, then your kin ever did.’

Janaxia practically vibrated in pleasure, ice creaking beneath her as she twisted in place. ‘My thanks to you, honoured ancestor. I shall strive to return our family to full glory, as we should be.’ Red blossomed over her outfit, overwhelming the blue, vivid crimson with barely any traces of black now apparent.

Misutira returned, carrying a tray, a teapot steaming away, along with an accompaniment of biscuits and sweets. She placed them on the wrought-iron table, having to carefully place it so that it was stable on the uneven layer of ice that covered it. Then she moved next to Kinnevar’s seat, kneeling down onto the ice, the position making Stathis wince, from both the ice and the pressure on the knees.

‘I must also decide upon a title – as the last meaningful survivor of the blood, then I do have quite the assortment to choose from. Perhaps I should let Kivata have something, should she ever wish to pay court to someone? But for myself, hmmm…’

‘It does depend on the face you wish to project to the world. I always thought that “Sovereign Prince” had something of a ring to it, but depending on your ties, that may come across as being overly bold.’ The red eyes turned to look at Stathis, flicking down to their mingled hands. ‘What titles do you currently claim? As Janaxia is now my heir, I would desire her to set her sights high.’

From how tightly held Stathis’ hand was, it was a wonder that Janaxia wasn’t squealing in pleasure! ‘Considering the circumstances, I could claim the inheritance of the Iristari, currently pre-eminent amongst the kingdoms.’

‘And perhaps something a little more special? “Bringer of the Light”, “Saviour from the great darkness”, something along those lines? It was very arduous, after all – you certainly deserve it, do you not?’

‘For such things, it might be best to see what acclamations the commons raise in your name. So… Commander-General? Queen?’

I do like Queen – Empress would be preferable, but that, I suppose, would be a little much.

‘Commander-General, I suppose. Mother deserves some time in retirement after all she’s done. Although I’m not looking forward to all the work required.’

‘You have already proven yourself competent, Stathis. Although it may be hard, then you will have Janaxia by your side, and your other allies. And, of course, you have proven yourself sufficiently powerful to defeat a great and mighty threat – that should give pause to anyone that thinks to question you. But if you wish to have Janaxia as your consort, then you will need to prove yourself to her. I think that the Duke of Saltstone, Jagirdar of Tomeleth and Viscount of Sunken Lometh should be a suitable match for a Commander-General though. It will certainly keep the heralds and announcers busy when they are announcing the two of you.’

Stathis winced as Janaxia finally succumbed, squealing in pleasure, making the icicles tinkle. ‘My thanks to you, Kinnevar! Yes, that is an acceptable variety of titles, is it not, Stathis?’

Stathis guided her over to the seats, Janaxia still not letting go of her hand, making it slightly awkward to drink the tea. Although it was worth the effort – lightly lemon scented, cut through with herbs she didn’t recognise, leaving her feeling revitalised and fully awake.

‘Although you do not need my approval, even if I am flattered you sought it. It is better, I find, to seek your own happiness, rather than to seek it from the approval of others. While you will have the support of, hmmm, the Lightbringer, perhaps? Or Lightbearer?’ Was he poking fun at her? His tone was gravelly and steady, impossible to tell. ‘With her by your side, then your will prevail over whatever challenges you may encounter, I am sure. Although you should give some thought to other companions – even the steadiest of relationships can be improved with a little spice, or looking elsewhere for relief. Especially as your roles may compel you to spend lengthy times apart. Each supporting the other is a boon, but becoming too dependent can be troublesome.’

‘Kinnevar! I don’t know what you’re suggested, but…’

Stathis cut over the top of Janaxia. ‘I don’t mind. I trust her enough not to do anything too foolish.’

There was a vivid pink tinge over Janaxia’s features, the tea cup coming to her lips and then back down without her even taking a sip.

‘I, I…’

‘We can talk it over later.’

There was a telepathic burble from Janaxia, hot, fuzzy consternation flowing into Stathis’ mind, making it hard to think.

‘Very sensible, Stathis. It can certainly make things easier, and be a useful source of new allies. Although I would advise you to recall that Janaxia should be your primary focus! It would be displeasing if she were to be upset, and I would prefer not to have to remind you of your duties.’

‘I will do what I can to keep her foremost in my thoughts.’

The fuzzy bubbling got even warmer, Janaxia’s hand squeezing painfully tight.

‘And I hope that we will not be separated for too long.’

‘That is good to hear! My own marriage was one of convenience, or inconvenience, if truth be told. And so whatever affection there may once have been was quickly smothered beneath mutual dislike and distrust. While attempts at murder may add a little spice at first, it shows something of a fundamental flaw in the relationship. So I would advise that you try and be open and honest with each other, as much as possible. Better to cause some minor harm to each other through openness rather letting something fester.’

Janaxia had managed to recover herself enough to respond, coughing and clearing her throat. ‘And of yourself, Kinnevar? What are your plans?’

‘I am content enough, I feel. It is easier and easier to slip away from this plane, and to let my spirit wander through the other realms. I think at some point, I will travel them forever – but it has been a pleasure to see you make yourself a worthy inheritor to my legacy. In both power and elegance, I think! It is only my regret that we had such little time together. But while I remain able to focus myself here, it is a pleasure to spend time with you, and your new companion. The two of you most certainly have my blessings.’ He moved from his throne, more ice cracking and shattering to the floor from the joints of his armour, as he went to a ice-coated wooden cabinet. Magical barriers flickered into life, fading away as he intoned counter-spells, a thick sheet of ice on the front crashing to the floor and breaking apart.

Once that was done, he slid open one of the drawers, taking out a small box, the outside dented and worn, padding long-since worn away. ‘Consider this a gift to acknowledge formalising your relationship. Gold you have no need of, and power you already possess, but this is something that was gifted to me, long ago. A boon companion, long since lost to the ages, that wished to make a gift to me, which I pass to you.’

Janaxia’s fuzziness had faded, her attention rapt, probably trying to commit the conversation to memory.

‘One of the first companions I made, when travelling as a sell-sword. She was just a wizard, skilled in the enchantment of items. After travelling together for a time, she crafted a ring, intended to be one of a pair, to help us stay in touch. Sadly, she was slain by assassins sent after me. After destroying them utterly, I had another crafted to fulfil their purpose, but never found anyone that seemed worthy of giving the other one to. And, in my current state, they would be unable to function.’

Despite his gauntlet-wrapped fingers, he picked one up, twisting it so that it caught the light – a golden band, interwoven with the dull gleam of enchanted metal, tiny etchings made into the surface. A fragment of ruby caught the light, shining brightly. ‘Minor, as such things go – scarcely an enchantment that will shatter empires, or turn a blade aside. But sometimes that little things can matter far more.’ He held out his hand, Janaxia reaching out her own, to catch the thin ring of metal as it fell. As soon as it touched her skin, the ruby began to softly throb, in time with her heartbeat.

‘And one for you.’ When he dropped the other ring into Stathis’ hand, it was heavier than she expected, and warm, starting to throb in time with her own pulse. Janaxia was looking at her expectantly, hand extended, ring-finger held out.

Stathis took the ring and slid it onto Janaxia’s finger, trying to ignore the fresh haze of delight emanating from Janaxia. It settled easily into place, magic tightening it to be the right size. Then it was her turn – she extended her own hand, feeling Janaxia’s soft touch, the metal band sliding over her finger. It buzzed slightly, thrumming softly in time with Janaxia’s heartbeat, currently quick and excited.

‘A simple reassurance will help you in whatever dark times may occur. And you could likely use them for more advanced foci, should such be needed.’ The ring was thumping faster and faster, Janaxia’s heart racing. It was strangely comforting – a reminder of Janaxia, her presence a comfort.

‘My thanks, Lord Kinnevar. A most appropriate gift! And one that will be treasured.’

‘It is the least I can do. I suppose I should try and organise everything down here, so when you inherit it all, then you know what is here.’ The magical protections on the cabinet reactivated, runes flickering to life. ‘There is much that would be useful to you. But, for now, accept my good wishes.’

The ring settled into place, Stathis twisting her finger to look at it, twisting around, the thing already feeling strangely natural. ‘Thank you.’

‘I am glad you find it acceptable. And, please, take my advice to heart – you are very dear to Janaxia, and I wish you the happiness I never had. While there might be glory and wealthy in conquest, you have achieved great deeds already. Stay true to yourselves, and each other, and I’m sure you will find happiness. Now, enjoy the tea before if freezes.’

Stathis took another drink – it was already cool enough that she could gulp it down, the flavour flatter now, less sharp, but still pleasing to the tongue.

‘My thanks, Kinnevar. For the gift, and for everything you’ve done to help Janaxia.’

‘Of course, Stathis. It was my pleasure. And dealing with her must have been a trial at times, but I hope the reward is worth it?’

Stathis squeezed Janaxia’s hand, feeling the heart-pulse through the ring quicken. ‘It is. And I hope we will speak again? Once matters are calmer, then it would be nice to visit again.’

‘You are always welcome here.’ He nodded his head. ‘I’m sure Misutira will keep the place to a high standard. I’m told she even has an apprentice now? And a cat.’

‘Yes, Lord Kinevar.’

They continued to chat, Stathis glad of the tea as the chill started to seep into her bones.