Varen was more than eager to attend the celebration ball with me. The moment I mentioned it, he offered to introduce me to some of his supporters who would be there. It only solidified my belief that choosing him as my so-called partner would benefit us both. He had spent most of his thirty years living as an outcast, lingering in the shadows of the Palace that should have been his home. His wiry frame and lack of brawn left him vulnerable to the stronger semi-nobles and mixed-breed servants ...