“…Where are all the others?” Alicia whispered audibly.

It was only her. Ivan too. Witnesses from both kingdoms should have surrounded the bed with white curtains drawn by now. But it was empty.

“Most likely enjoying the wedding reception banquet.”

“…What do you mean?”

He poured a glass-half-full of liquor and passed it to his wife. She took it half-heartedly. He poured another glass for himself.

“It’s a wedding and it’s only natural a reception is held to celebrate the bride and groom. They’re most likely dancing, drinking, playing, and fooling around. They won’t be home until after dawn.”

True. A reception was as natural as the passing of time....