“What are we doing back here?” Sienna smiled, and looked around the Serpent and Rose. “Well, I never got a chance to sit down and enjoy the food. Or Lord Canterwright’s company. So I thought another day would mean another go.” Pietr and Sophie shuffled around. Ivan was back with Lord Smyth, looking over the estate. Sienna had taken charge of the two remaining Koskovs, and after their lessons in town, suggested this new diversion.

Viola nodded. “Yes.” Gregor started to cry. Viola surmised much of what must have happened. He had heard the rumors from a staff member, or one of the guards. Her execution of Petrovich was so public, it would have been a wonder if Gregor didn’t eventually hear about it. But what he said next stunned her. “Are you going to try and kill me too?” “What?” Viola paled, sickened. “Sweet boy, no! No, I couldn’t

Viola turned towards the door, eyes alight. Then her gaze softened, and the magic dissipated. “Gregor.” Gregor Petrovich, all of four, stood in the door. He clutched at a small blanket, rubbing his eyes. He looked in the door, up at the grownups. “Viola?” He blinked a few times. “M’had a bad dream.” “The countess…” Viola rushed past the protesting Nalus. She had the blanket of her own off in an instant, and wrapped around