Ketta Mayasan, head house mistress in charge of housekeeping, meals, and gardening, stood back as her master, Cambra Vernier, relayed his instructions to her and the other household staff members before he had to return to the war at hand. From where she stood, Ketta could sense his weariness and see the bruises on his face and torso, from where he had been beaten by the Ajellorians while on Vendra. Wanting to do more for him than oversee his household needs, Ketta eyed him lasciviously but, as usual, he paid no attention.

Having been in the cambra’s employ for three scalons now, Ketta had hoped to win his heart, his...