It was already late evening, and a whole mansion seemed asleep. Gawyn was still working in his office, going through a massive pile of military reports from all parts of Lamyria. With over half-day wasted on a migraine, it would take some long night hours to catch up with everything.

Someone knocked at the door lightly.

"Come in," Gawyn said, not taking his eyes from the parchment in his hand.

Zachariah walked in with a tray. "You are working late today, my lord. I brought you fresh tea."

"Thank you." The General put down the report. He took off his glasses, closed his eyes, and massaged the bridge of his nose. "Gods know I could use a break."

"Maybe you should retire for the day, my lord?" the servant asked, pouring steaming tea with efficient and elegant movements.

"I've wasted enough time sleeping already today." Gawyn took a beautiful, delicate teacup, inhaling the aroma.

"On the side note," Zachariah said, standing just a few feet away with his hands behind his back. "Lady Skylar seems to be settling in well."

Gawyn scoffed. "You mean when she's running around in my clothes or storming out in the middle of her tutoring sessions?"

"Well, at least the mansion seems livelier with her."

The General raised a brow. "You've taken a liking to her already?"

"Let's say she reminds me a lot of you when you were younger, my lord."

"She does not."

"Yes, she does. She is bold, easily annoyed with pointless nobility customs, and very dedicated to keeping her body in shape."

"You mean fencing. The problem is Skylar is a woman, so she shouldn't be doing it."

"That's just something the society forced on us," Zachariah said with a shrug. "In my humble opinion, it brings her no dishonour."

"Yeah, but unfortunately, it's not your opinion that matters." The General sighed. "But I've already learnt that forcing her to stop is futile. She's as stubborn as an ox."

"I could point out a few examples where you were just as stubborn, my lord."

"Please, don't," Gawyn replied, sipping his tea.

"But even against all those odds, you two seem to be getting on well," Zachariah said. "I don't think there was an awkward silence during today's dinner. Which I believe was the first meal you ate together here."

The General scratched his head in thought. "Yes, I think you are right. Sometimes, when I talk to her, I forget that she is a woman because she keeps talking about military topics. And I must admit, she is quite knowledgeable in this area."

"Isn't it a good thing then? Isn't she exactly someone in whose company you would like to spend your life, my lord?"

Gawyn sighed again. "The problem is, we all have a role to play in our society for Lamyria to prosper. And she is not very good in hers, which will make things difficult for me too."

"Still, I'm impressed with how you are handling this situation, my lord," Zachariah said with a small smile.

The General raised his brows. "Meaning?"

"You provided her with her quarters and space. And quite a lot of freedom. I must say, you don't often treat other people with so much empathy."

Gawyn put down his teacup and looked at his servant with a frown. "You haven't been at the wedding."

"Did something happen there, my lord?"

"You told me Skylar is bold, and she is. She would probably charge at a dragon without a second thought. That's just the kind of person she is. But on our wedding day, she was terrified of me. She did try to put a brave face on, but it was clear as day. I didn't realise it at the time, but she is a good couple of years younger than me. And with all this mess of negotiating alliance, her family pushed her to marry me without any warning. 

"I may disagree with the King's decision to go on with this union, and I would never choose her if I had any say in the matter. But it is what it is, and I'd rather live with a woman who was ready to punch me when I offended her sister than with a pale shadow that trembles at my smallest gesture."

"I'm delighted you think so, my lord."

"Yeah, but I'm afraid it will come back to bite me sooner or later." Gawyn handed his empty teacup to the servant. "Now excuse me, but I have no more time for idle talk. I need to get back to work."

"Of course, my lord," Zachariah said with a bow. "If you need anything else, just call."

***

The evening before the birthday feast in the palace finally arrived. Master Bailey brought the whole collection of dresses he was working on all this time, including a unique creation for Skylar's first appearance at the royal court. She was now looking at her reflection in the mirror with a mixture of awe and horror.

The dress was nothing Skylar had seen before. It left her whole shoulders bare. She was used to hiding her arms because of well-defined muscles that were so unladylike in general, but now they were exposed on purpose. The red bodice richly embroidered with black gryphon shapes was not suffocating, like typical corsets, but seemed to be hugging all her curves perfectly. The simple black skirt was not too large and heavy, but a perfect combination of flowing fabric and pretty shape, not restricting her movements.

Skylar had to admit that it was the most comfortable dress she's ever worn in her life. The whole thing was complemented by long, black gloves reaching up to her elbows.

"Come now, darling," Master Bailey said from behind the partition. "Don't leave us hanging in here!"

Sky took a deep breath, straightened her shoulders, and stepped out from her little changing space.

Gawyn's mouth opened slightly while his wide eyes took her all in, from head to toes. Skylar's cheeks burned under his intense gaze, which was weird, as she didn't care if he approved of her or not.

"It's..." the General paused, searching for the right words.

"Spectacular? Magnificent? Terrific?" Master Bailey suggested, not even trying to hide his excitement.

"Nothing I've ever seen at court. That's for sure," Gawyn finished with a frown.

"Of course, you've seen nothing like this before! Do you think I would copy some shabby creations from other tailors?! Not likely! This dress, my dear General, is a work of art. Come here, dear." 

The tailor took Skylar's hand, pulled her closer to Gawyn, and then twirled her around. "Just look at how perfectly it fits your wife. It's showing off the best parts and hides enough to let the mind wander."

"Isn't it showing a bit too much?" Sky asked, looking nervously at her bare shoulders.

"My dear," Master Bailey said, putting both hands on her arms. "Those shoulders are works of art; you can't keep them hidden! It's a crime!" 

He twirled her again, so she was facing Gawyn now, and pushed her gently forward, so they were standing so close, she had to raise her chin to look him in the face. 

The tailor continued, "On tomorrow's feast, every man in the room will wish they could stand in your place, my dear General, and every woman would die to be you, my dear Lady Skylar."

"I'm still not convinced it's not too... controversial," Gawyn said.

"Lord General, does your wife not look stunning in this dress?" asked Master Bailey pointedly.

"She does," Gawyn admitted, while his eyes wandered over Skylar's body, making her blush even more.

"Would you not be happy to dance only with her the whole night?"

"I would."

"There you have it."

"What do you think about the dress?" Gawyn asked, looking at Skylar.

"It surely is comfortable. I wouldn't mind wearing it for the rest of my life."

"And that is the greatest compliment I could have counted on!" Master Bailey exclaimed and gallantly kissed Skylar's hand. "I'll take my leave now. I'll send the next batch of dresses next week. Have fun at the feast, my dears. When people compliment your dress, don't forget to mention who made it."

"I sure will," Sky said with a smile, stepping away from Gawyn. For some reason, his proximity was doing strange things to her heart.

"Oh, and one more thing," the tailor added, turning around and pointing his finger at the General. "Your wife is a goddess. Treat her like one, or you would have to deal with me!"

"Goodbye, Master Bailey," Gawyn said with a sour expression.

***

"Are you all right? You look pale," Gawyn said when they walked out of the elevator and followed the servant to the ballroom.

"What do you think?" Skylar hissed. Her whole body was tense with anxiety since morning. She was not doing great at parties; this one was the grandest kind ever. "You, on the other hand, look far too relaxed. Aren't you scared I'll embarrass you?"

"There's nothing we can do about it now, so no point in wasting time on worrying," Gawyn said calmly. His parade uniform matched perfectly to her dress. Master Bailey was truly unrivalled at his craft. "Also, I'm going to be with you at all times, so I'll stop you before you can do something stupid."

"That's reassuring," she murmured, but they had to stop their conversation as they entered the grand palace ballroom.

The place was bigger than anything Skylar had seen and dripping with luxury. When the herald announced their names, every face in the room turned towards them. Skylar suddenly felt faint, but Gawyn squeezed her hand gently and led her into the room.

Skylar felt everyone's eyes on her. People were whispering and smiling, but not in a kind and friendly way. 

"Ignore them. Chin up and smile," Gawyn murmured, sending a shiver down her spine when his warm breath tickled her ear.

Sky obeyed, trying her hardest to keep her face relaxed. But her skin was crawling every time she heard poorly contained laughter behind her back. Fortunately, she had to focus on what was ahead of them as they approached a small dais where the lady of the hour was sitting on an elaborated chair.

The matron of the Gryphonheart family was an epitome of poise. Her crimson dress was elegant but not too overbearing, and dark hair peppered with grey were styled in an immaculate crown. When her sharp dark eyes rested on Skylar, she had to force herself not to cower.

"Mother, you look radiant today," Gawyn said, leaning toward her and kissing her cheek gently. The greeting seemed too stiff and formal to Skylar. She couldn't imagine herself acting with such reservation around her closest family.

"You look well too, my son," the woman said, and her eyes turned to Skylar, who stood a step behind Gawyn. The matron looked her up and down with a frown, her sight lingering on her bare shoulders. "And you brought your wife. How... lovely."

"My lady," Skylar said, curtseying.

"Your dress is rather peculiar, my dear."

"It's the latest creation of Master Bailey," Gawyn said smoothly, taking a step back and offering Sky his elbow again. "Was my present to your satisfaction, Mother?"

"Oh, yes. The stallion was indeed a beautiful specimen. It's a nice addition to my collection."

"I'm glad. I let you greet other guests now." Gawyn bowed his head lightly.

When they walked away, Skylar murmured, "I don't think your mother likes me very much."

"I don't think she likes me very much either." The General shrugged. "She is a very traditional and stubborn woman."

They moved through the room, greeting so many people that Skylar quickly lost the ability to connect the family names with the faces. She kept a smile on her face even though her muscles started to ache. But when Sky was sure the stream of people would never end, the trumpets sounded, and everyone moved towards the tables.

Gawyn led her to the biggest one, where the King and Queen were already sitting at the top. The matron Gryphonheart ruled over the opposite side of the table, surrounded by elegant ladies who seemed to be her entourage.

Skylar sat down on the chair Gawyn pulled back for her at the King's right hand. She looked around and noticed the most influential people from the most prominent noble families across Lamyria. Her tutors made sure she knew at least the most noteworthy members of nobility before this party.

The starters were served, and the conversation was flowing all around them. Skylar felt someone's intense gaze at her, and she looked up. A few seats down the table sat Lucinda, looking stunning in an elegant pink dress. She had a saccharine smile plastered to her face.

"Lady Skylar, good to see you! You look so incredible today. I hardly recognised you. I was just telling Axel about our first meeting!" she said and patted the hand of the man sitting next to her.

He was handsome in a way. His blonde hair was just long enough to fall unruly over his eyes but in a styled way. The golden rings with huge jewels adored his fingers, and he smiled at her, showing perfectly white teeth.

"Lady Skylar, I admit that after everything I've heard about you, I couldn't wait to meet you."

Sky raised her chin. "Axel Ironhand, the pleasure is all mine."

"Oh, you know my name. I'm honoured." He bowed his head, but just barely. "I must say, your dress is spectacular, my lady. So... bold. Would you honour me with a dance later?"

"I suggest you dance with your own partner," Gawyn said coldly, putting his hand on Skylar's.

"Oh, my. I didn't know Lord General is a possessive kind of man." Axel whistled with a smirk. "You'd better not take your eyes off her, dear General, as with that dress, I bet plenty of men would try to steal her away."

"And I suggest again you'd better focus on your partner. Otherwise, poor Lucinda will get bored with you."

"Fair advice, I'll drink to that." Axel tipped his glass towards them and winked at Skylar, making her skin crawl.

More food was served, and all the conversations died down a bit. Skylar couldn't even count how many different delicious dishes she tried, and she was proud that she remembered which cutlery to use for each one.

When most of the guests were satisfied, the discussions began anew. This time the topic was more serious.

"All Lamyria must unite in the face of the threat from the east," the King said. "While we are divided, and each of us cares for our land, we are easy prey for what is rising in the Blighted Lands."

"What threat?" Axel scoffed. "I apologise, Your Highness, but you keep telling us about this unknown threat, "he made quotation marks with his fingers, "while nobody seems to see any signs of it! Why would we give command of our armies and resources over to you if you haven't shown us any evidence so far?"

"What threat?" Skylar repeated with disbelief. "Excuse me, Lord Axel, but have you ever been to the east border?"

The silence fell around the table. Axel raised his brow and looked at her. "I did not, Lady Skylar. As you should be aware, my lands are in the western part of Lamyria. If you wish to get to know me better, I'm sure we can talk later privately," he added with a smirk.

"Then how can you say there is no threat from the east if you never stepped further than the capital?" Skylar continued, ignoring his obscene comment. "Shawcross' forces are constantly patrolling the border with the Blighted Lands, and in the last three years, there hasn't been a week without an attempt of hostile intrusions into our kingdom."

"And what are those hostile intrusions exactly, Lady Skylar?" Axel asked, swirling the wine in his glass.

Sky felt Gawyn's hand squeezing her knee under the table, but she ignored him. "Different kinds of cursed creatures that are currently prowling the Blighted Lands."

"What kind of creatures?" asked someone else down the table.

Gawyn squeezed her knee harder, his face tense, but she swatted his hand away.

"Shadow Shifters, Dark Crawlers, Blood Vultures..." Skylar started, but she stopped when laughs erupted around the table.

"My dear Lord General, I'm afraid your wife drank too much wine already," Axel chided. "Shadow Shifters? Blood Vultures? Those are fairy tales, my lady. You gave us all a laugh, I give you that, but please, let the men discuss important matters."

"Those are not─" Skylar started, her flushed with anger, but Gawyn got up and grabbed her elbow.

"How about a dance?" he asked and pulled her away from the table.

"I'm not finished here," she protested, trying to shake him off, but his grip was like iron.

"Oh yes, you are," he hissed. "I won't let you embarrass yourself anymore. Let them think it was a drunk talk."

"Absolutely not! You know I haven't drunk a drop of alcohol! Why would you pretend otherwise?"

"Because you are ruining negotiations, that's why! Now stop squirming. We are going to dance."

"I'm not dancing with you!" Skylar huffed.

"It's not a request."

They reached the middle of the space dedicated to a dancefloor, and Gawyn effortlessly whirled her around, grabbing one of her hands and pressing the other to the small of her back. She tried to back off, but he pressed her firmly to his chest.

"Now, smile and dance. Everyone is looking," the General said, and his feet moved, forcing her to follow.

"I don't care," Skylar hissed, looking at him with annoyance. His face was this infuriating indifferent mask again, and she hated it. "You know what I said is true. You saw all the reports. Why are you pretending otherwise?"

"I told you already. I don't give a damn about all your shamanistic rituals and made-up creatures. When you prove to me that all this nonsense you're spouting is true, then, and only then, I will let this story go public. For now, keep your mouth shut, or everyone here will brand you a madwoman."

"I hate you!" she spat.

Gawyn twirled her again, and now she had her back to him. He whispered into her ear. "Hate me all you want. But you will not speak up again during the negotiation."

"Since when a feast is a time for official negotiation?"

"Since forever. Every word you say at court matters, and nobles will catch the slightest mistakes, as well as a shark smells blood. So, remember, every time your temper flares up, just bite your tongue."

Skylar rotated again, so they were face to face again. "So, that's what I am? A pretty ornament that you can show off at the parties? My role is just smiling politely and nodding?"

"I'm glad you finally caught up," Gawyn said coldly.

"Sod off!" she growled and managed to escape his grasp. But before she could storm off, he caught her wrist.

"Where do you think you're going?"

"Away from you! I need space."

"I won't let you wander alone."

"Let go of me right now, or I swear I'll make a scene so dramatic you would never dare to bring me to the court again!" Skylar glared at him.

Gawyn clenched his jaw but reluctantly let her go. She walked away as fast as her dress and dignity allowed her, ignoring amused stares and whispers.

Eventually, Skylar found an empty balcony. She leaned heavily on the railing, looking at the dark city below. The cold wind felt good on her hot face, like a gentle caress. Her chest was still heaving with hardly contained anger. She was so fed up with being treated like a useless object. The worst thing was that every time she thought she might like Gawyn, he was showing her exactly what he thought of her - an annoyance that he had to deal with.

Skylar closed her eyes and let the wind blow away her fury and self-doubt. None of the shallow people here was worth her hatred. They were just poor excuses for humans, revelling in others' misery, nothing more. If she were to live among them, she would have to be stronger than that.

When she felt more like herself, Sky got back inside. She was about to go and look for Gawyn, but a voice nearby drew her attention.

"...wearing his clothes! Can you believe that?" Lucinda laughed.

Despite herself, Skylar looked her way. She was standing in a small circle of nobles, draped on Axel's arm. They were all laughing with glee.

"And the things she was saying at the table?" Axel added, amused. "She must have lost some of her marbles on the way here from the east!" Everyone laughed.

Skylar turned and started walking away.

"And did you know," Lucinda continued with a conspiratorial tone, "she wasn't even the one that was supposed to marry Lord General? I've heard he was supposed to marry her sister, but it turned out she was already pregnant!" More laughs.

Skylar stopped abruptly. How did Lucinda know it? They all agreed to keep the whole thing secret, not to provoke the rumours.

"I can't believe they still went on with this ridiculous union." Axel laughed. "One of the most important people in Lamyria marrying a sister of a whore. I bet she wasn't pure either, considering she was riding around with the soldiers...."

Skylar started seeing red. She wasn't thinking anymore. Her feet moved even before she realised what she was doing.

"Hey!" she called, strolling toward the group. The nobles turned around to face her, and most of them had the decency to turn their eyes away, embarrassed that she caught them gossiping about her. But not Lucinda and Axel. They were looking down at her with amusement.

"Oh, Lady Skylar, what a nice surprise to see you again," Lucinda said.

"Lucinda, could you please let go of Lord Axel for a moment?"

The confused woman did what she was asked and stepped away under Skylar's glare.

But Axel's smile only widened. "Did you reconsider my dance offer, Lady Skylar?" He was tall but slim. He looked as if he had never had to work physically in his life, busy ordering others around.

Skylar smiled. It was a feral smile of a predator. She took off her long gloves and handed them to stunned Lucinda. 

"Sure. Let's dance," she said and punched Axel straight in the face.