Chapter 39

They set out for Riverford at first light, but this time with an escort. Lydia insisted on sending four of her warriors along—Helena and three others whose presence would make the group look more like an official delegation and less like desperate refugees.

"Thomas responds to power," Lydia had explained. "Show up looking weak and he'll dismiss you. Show up looking like you have actual backing and he'll at least take the meeting seriously."

Peter led them along a different route this time—wider paths that allowed for faster travel but offered less concealment. They were making a statement now, Arianna realized. No more skulking through the wilderness like...