Mira's POV.We sat in a private council chamber hours after the battle ended. Fires still smouldered outside, but the immediate danger had passed.

Kael was discussing Blackridge's future, suggesting Lyra stay to help rebuild. "You could be acknowledged formally. My daughter, my heir."

Lyra looked uncomfortable but didn't immediately refuse. Progress, I suppose. Then she asked the question I'd been dreading. "Was I conceived before or after the rejection?"

Kael and I exchanged glances. Neither of ...