Althea smiled as she watched from the balcony, the twins playing with Ash. It had been a while since she last touched or played with the little wolf, who was growing quickly now. She would have loved to join them, but she always ended up sneezing whenever Ash was around.

A knock sounded, followed by a guard’s voice announcing that Healer Lakan had arrived. Melva quickly moved to open the door.

“Your Majesty,” Lakan greeted with a respectful bow.

Althea returned his greeting with a ...