The autoshuttle cut through a driving rain – well, to the Titans it appeared more like a driving mist, but that’s merely a question of scale – as it banked toward the Palace of the Three Shaars.

The usual protocol would have been to have the reception on Rimne, in the Sjedi family estate. But Tursas Sjedi had stipulated in his will that if it was willed by the sovereign, his ashes were to be scattered in Naesavarna, in the Memorial Garden of the Ancient Savarnan Government. It was an honor reserved for former Kuthis, military heroes, and others who had served the Jotunn with distinction. It was an honor that Rajenlif had conferred before she had returned to Jutuneim.

And so she had made the palace available to the House of Sjedi for the reception, allowing them to conduct the business of receiving condolences with a minimum of stress.

Four Imperial days had been scheduled for receiving, and those in the shuttle were arriving on the fourth of those days.

“I must confess,” Rixie said, “I’m still not sure whether this is an honor or an insult.”

“It’s got to be an honor,” Alex said. “They could insult you, or me, but Pryvani?”

“Could also be random chance, I suppose,” Rixie said. “Each family sets their own schedule, so maybe they drew lots.”

“I’m telling Ryan next time we talk that we are not doing this when members of the House of Carey die. If he makes you all talk to random lords and ladies when I die, I swear I’ll rise from the grave and take his title from him.”

Rixie’s expression was caught somewhere between a wince and a smirk; it was funny, yes, but it was a reminder that Alex, for all his bravado, had been slowing down just a bit. To be fair, they all were – age did that – but he was starting to cross over from someone who was middle aged to someone who was old. And maybe he would have many years as an old man – indeed, Rixie thought Alex would quite enjoy being a curmudgeon – but even if he died late in old age and she died early in old age…he would reach the end of his life long before she would.

That he had managed decades more than she’d feared in those early days of loving him…that was little consolation. They could live until the stars burned out, and Rixie would always want just one more day with him.

The ship touched down, and Rixie picked Alex up and sat him on his customary shoulder perch. She was wearing the Jotanr Variant dress uniform with the Sword of Savarna on her hip; he wore a crisply-tailored black suit with a grey shirt and a subdued green-and-gold tie.

The door to the shuttle swung open, and a young peacekeeper in dress uniform approached, carrying an umbrella.

“Renowned Rixie Carey,” he said with a flourish, “and Senator Alex Carey. Welcome to the Palace.” The peacekeeper said, opening it and holding it over the couple’s head.

“You do not need to protect us from the rain,” Rixie said in Jotnar. “Especially at the cost of your own comfort.”

“I am Jotnar,” the man said. “The rain does not bother me.”

Rixie nodded. “I am also Jotnar.”

“True,” the peacekeeper replied. “And were it just you, Renowned Rixie, I know that you would bear the rain. But your husband is a human, and just as we have for the Ler, the Avartle, and the Aementi, we would provide for his comfort. The Dunnermac…they prefer this weather.”

Rixie smiled, and nodded. “I appreciate that you do not do this just because he is human.”

“And with due appreciation, you do not need to protect me,” Alex said. “I married a Jotnar. If my wife can bear the rain, I can too.”

The peacekeeper paused, and smiled. “I can see why you won the soul of a Jotnar woman, Senator.” He folded the umbrella. “Welcome, both of you, on this sad day.”

“Thank you for your greeting,” Rixie said, following the peacekeeper into the palace.

They turned, and went into a new anteroom, one that Rixie had not been in before. When the peacekeeper withdrew, Alex said, “Honestly, if you hadn’t said anything, I would have been happy to have the umbrella.”

Rixie chuckled. “You always said Wisconsin winters were hard, and that’s why you didn’t feel cold running around naked.”

“I may have exaggerated a bit,” Alex said. Rixie laughed.

“Yeah…you may have.” She scooped him off her shoulder and gave him a quick kiss. “I’ll worry when you stop exaggerating.”

The door to the room proper opened, and a functionary announced, “High-Born Rajenlif, I present Renowned Rixie Carey, Bearer of the Sword of Savarna, Joined Member of the House of Throden-ColVanos, representing the House of Tarsuss; Senator Alex Carey, father of Lord Ryan Carey, representing the House of Carey.”

Rixie cleared the smile from her face and entered the room. She bowed to the man and woman standing at the door. “High-Born Rajenlif. Your Imperial Majesty.”

“Renowned Rixie,” Rajenlif said, “and Senator Carey. Welcome back to the Palace. I wish it were under more pleasant circumstances.”

“You both appear wet,” Tiernan said. “I thought the peacekeepers were directed to have an umbrella?”

Rajenlif’s cheeks twitched up, just a bit. “A Jotunn is not bothered by a little rain; I expect most of our guests today will be damp when they arrive. There are food and refreshments while you wait – and towels, for those who want them.”

“Are we not meeting with Lord Sjedi right away then?” Alex asked. “I confess, I don’t know the protocol.”

“For better or for worse, these receptions are an opportunity for the noble houses to network. This is why the Ten Noble Families of Jotnarherath are saved for the last day – we have a chance to get together and talk. A few of the Houses of the Empire proper are invited – but only a select few. Daz is over there, representing the House of Zakrov. She’s talking to Lady Umbas. The House of Idisoko is be represented, and obviously the Houses of Tarsuss and Carey. And owing to their recent contributions….”

The door opened, and a functionary cleared his throat. “High-Born Rajenlif, Ambassador Eyrn Bass, representing the House of Bass.”

“…the House of Bass,” Rajenlif said, with a nod. “Ambassador, welcome to the Palace of the Three Shaars. I am so sorry to hear that Lord Bass is ill.”

“Thank you, Your Imperial Majesty,” Eyrn said. “He’s responding well to treatment; hopefully he’ll be back home in a few days. He sends his regards.”

Tiernan nodded. “Still, it must have given Lady Bass a fright.”

Eyrn smiled and shook her head. “You know, when Aerti and Niall died, Lilitu was the one to break it to Naskia. And Nas says she was calm as the Bozedami Ocean. Don’t get me wrong, she was heartbroken, just like the rest of us, but she has almost as much control of herself as Pryvani does. Hussel is lucky to have her. But still…it’s a reminder. There’s not forever left.”

“There never is,” Rajenlif said. “As our gathering today reminds us. Still, I know Hussel was hopeful that he would have two or three good years, and I hope this has not changed that assessment.”

“It hasn’t,” Eyrn said. “And he’s determined to finish his memoirs before he goes, and he’s almost as stubborn as Lilitu, so I’d give him a fighting chance.”

“He’s a Bass,” Rixie said. “Every last one of you will go down swinging.”

Eyrn nodded. “That’s too true. Rixie, Alex, good to see you both. It’s been too long. And High-Born Rajenlif, Your Imperial Majesty, we will leave you to greet others as they arrive,” she said. Rixie, Alex, and Eyrn all bowed.

“Go well, all of you. We are honored by your greeting,” Rajenlif said.

“So how is Poly liking the academy?” Rixie asked. “Has she made The Call yet?”

Eyrn laughed. “Just once, and she realized halfway through that she was doing it. And she called me back the next day to say she was being ridiculous, of course it’s really hard work. The job is tough.”

Eyrn pulled out her pad, and thumbed to a picture of her eldest daughter in her periwinkle cadet uniform. Rixie smiled. “She looks terrified and proud, so she’s going to fit right in. Is that…did she select weapons as her specialty?”

“She really wants security and peacekeeping,” Eyrn shrugged, “but given her height and build, weapons is an easier lift. Plus she says there’s a lot of overlap.”

“There is,” Rixie said. “The specialized coursework is about eighty percent the same. It’s like comms and xenoling, it’s sort of a natural fit. And honestly, it doesn’t matter what your academy or training specialty is, once you’re on a ship or a base somewhere, that’s when you start to build your career.”

“Exactly what she said. Besides, she’s said that her goal isn’t to be a captain, it’s to serve the Emperor. If she ends up working as a gunner for her career, she’ll be happy.”

“She won’t just end up a gunner,” Rixie said. “Daughter of Aerti Bass is going to get noticed. If she’s got half the ability of either of her parents, she’s going to have a fine career.”

“I’m biased, so I think she has more ability than both of us,” Eyrn said. “And Aerti thought she was smarter than us plus Niall. Which is clearly bias, because no, she isn’t. Nobody is.”

“According to Niall, Sorcha was,” Alex said. “And according to Rixie and me, Ryan and Asteria are. So it’s possible.”

Eyrn grinned. “So I understand why you’re here, how did Pryvani rope Rixie into going in her place?”

“We were both on Sininentavas,” Rixie said. “So it was an easy trip.”

“Did I hear someone mention Sininentavas?” A tall, thin man wearing a red and black coat walked over; he had a snow white beard and shorter grey hair, with a grey-white braid hanging haphazardly behind him.

“Uh…yes,” Rixie said.

“How did you like it? I hope you enjoyed your time there. Some people say it’s a bit cold, but they’re not real Jotnar, you know.”

“Ignore my father,” said a rather stunning woman trailing behind him. “He takes his position as Hersja of Sininentavas quite too personally.”

“Your Imperial Highness,” Eyrn said, bowing slightly to Princess Snjolaug. “And Lord Olmøs, it is good to see you.”

“Ambassador Bass,” Lord Olmøs said, bowing to her. “And unless my memory has failed me, you must be Alex and Rixie Carey. An honor to meet you both.”

“The honor is ours, Hersja,” Rixie said, with a bow. “And in answer to your question, I quite loved Sininentavas. As did my husband, who is not Jotnar at all.”

“It reminded me a bit of northern Wisconsin,” Alex said. “Which is a place on Earth that I’m realizing none of you have heard of.”

“I’ve heard of it,” Eyrn said. “I was almost in Wisconsin at one point.”

“Yeah, Minnesota doesn’t count,” Alex said.

“Where were you? Aasveig? Tuwanela?”

“On the island of Lintukoki, south of the main city.”

“Oh! That’s a lovely area. Excellent wildlife viewing. Do share your experience with others, will you? I am proud of my homeworld; it’s a fine world, but not an easy one. And too many want easy, even in Jotnarherath. My own daughter went to Utgarlthar,” he said, rolling his eyes.

“Which is where my husband’s mother lives,” Snjolaug said. “And now, my husband. And it’s not like Utgarlthar is Asgordn; it’s more like Hadia. But we go where we must for love. Senator Carey here left Earth.”

“To be fair, I was kidnapped,” Alex said. “So the first twenty years or so wasn’t really by choice. But the last three have been, so fair point.”

“Anyhow,” Snjolaug said, “I have to mingle; do you want me to pull my father away, or are you actually happy to talk about Sininentavas?”

“I am happy to talk about it,” Rixie said.

“I’m actually gonna borrow Alex for a minute if you don’t mind, Rix,” Eyrn said.

“Are you guys going to start a riot again? Because a funeral is not the time or place.”

“You’re no fun,” Alex said. “And also of course we aren’t, she’s a distinguished former Ambassador and I’m a distinguished Senator. The very idea.”

“Really, Rixie. As if we would ever do something so irresponsible,” Eyrn said, with a smirk that made Snjolaug very curious about when exactly Eyrn Bass and Alex Carey had started a riot, and why. “No, Cleo is seriously considering studying hospitality at college with an eye on becoming a restaurateur.”

“Tell her to run, fast,” Alex said. “It’s a terrible job.”

“Really?” Eyrn said.

“Nah,” Alex said.

Snjolaug laughed, and left the group, heading for another corner of the room. She forced herself to do this; all things considered, she’d rather continue chatting with the Careys, they seemed level-headed. And if the gossip Kaleva had shared was true….

But she was not just the first heir to the house of Olmøs, but the wife of the third heir to the House of Throden-ColVanos, and if what Gunvjer had told them was true, there was a better-than-even chance that she was married to the future Emperor and Jofur.

That still made her a bit queasy. She was not an extrovert by nature; she had grown up pretty and rich, and had learned at a young age that both were great advantages and great curses. She had been blessed with parents who encouraged her to be more than just a pretty face, to be more than just an heiress. Her father had wanted to do actual things, and had a distinguished career in the Space Exploration Corps to show for it, not to mention his wife, whom he had met during that career.

Snjolaug got her looks from her mom, and most of her personality. She was fortunate that Kaleva had been interested enough in the former to ignore her innate prickliness. And because she loved her husband, and understood her duty, she would mingle, despite hating every moment of it.

At least there were enough relations in the room to ease the pain a little.

“Well-born Tellervo,” Snjolaug said. “It is a sad occasion.”

Tellervo nodded. “Tursas was a good man. And a good Governor-Regent.”

“He was. We were very lucky he was willing to do the job for so long.”

Tellervo nodded. “It is easy for those of us from noble houses to simply live off the wealth of our ancestors. Tursas never wanted that.”

“You make it sound as if the rest of us are weak, Tellervo,” a man said, leaning on a cane as he walked over.

Tellervo rolled her eyes, but turned and greeted the man with a feigned smile. “Nyyriki, that is not at all what I’m saying and you know it. The Daiduson Charitable Trust does fine work; there are many ways to contribute.”

“Hmpf. Well. I will say this, Tursas was a decent fellow. And he loved Jotnarherath. I am glad to see, young Princess Snjolaug, that you and Prince Kaleva have made Jotnarherath your home. I do hope you both continue to hold it first in your hearts.”

Snjolaug paused, trying to find a diplomatic response, but Tellervo shot back, “Oh, stuff your Jotnarherath chauvinism, Nyyriki. First, it’s not the time or place to debate this. Second, she’s a Princess Royal of Jotnarherath, if you cared half as much about the True Jotnar Way as you pretend to you’d show more respect than to say something like that.”

“You don’t ask me to show you that respect, Tellervo.”

“I don’t trade on my title. But then, I’m not the one telling someone else how much they should hold Jotnarherath in their planning.”

“To answer your question,” Snjolaug calmly interjected, “I of course love Jutuneim. I grew up on Sininentavas, I live in Utgarlthar. My husband spent time in Utgarlthar and Naesavarna…and also Tuaut, and New Trantor, and even Vakor off and on. Ours is a wide Empire, and while I will hold Jotnarherath in my soul wherever I am…should the day come when fate moves my husband and me to move from Jotnarherath, then I will serve as an ambassador for my home, just as our Dronung and Empress has.”

“Well said, Your Imperial Highness,” Tellervo said.

“Just make sure you don’t forget us. The Aemet have long wanted us to be just another dull province in their Empire. I have no intention of agreeing to that.”

“I don’t think anyone wants you to, Nyyriki,” Tellervo said. “Be well.”

“Right. Be well, well-born Tellervo. Well-born Snjolaug,” he added, with a nod.

Lord Daiduson grunted, and limped his way across the room. He could have had his knee fixed up – should, really – but the limp had become a part of his persona at this point. He headed over toward a man he’d never much cared for, a dark-skinned man with his hair in wild dreadlocks, shaved on the side, with a simple goatee and mustache. He wore a dark tailored suit and generally looked both too cool and not quite fancy enough for the milieu.

“Father Nyyriki,” the man said. “How are you.”

“Uđđi. You still cheating on my daughter?” Nyyriki replied. Uđđi Lavra, Jarl of Hlidskjalf, laughed.

“No more than you cheat on Mother Dakmar, Lord Daiduson,” he said, downing his med in one gulp.

Nyyriki snorted. “I’m too old to cheat anymore. Hoping you’ve got it out of your system.”

“Now I would never admit to cheating,” Uđđi said. “But what desire I might have had in my youth is not nearly so great now that I’m older. Besides, a misplaced child can cause a number of problems; better that I don’t have to deal with that like some others we could both mention.”

“Hm. True enough,” Nyyriki said. “Have you spoken to Rajinvalt yet?”

“Not yet. They’re moving through the Aemet. I believe Joceusa Idisoko is in talking with him right now.”

“Idisoko. You’ve heard the rumors about her daughter?” Nyyriki said.

“Word to the wise – don’t mention it. She will tell you how they are nothing but lies meant to discredit her family.”

“Are they?”

Uđđi smiled. “Not from what I hear. From what I know, she’s quite taken with the human. He did save her life, one can understand it. I just wonder what will happen should she decide to marry him.”

Nyyriki snorted. “There’s a no-win situation for Joceusa. If she cuts off her daughter the media would be only too happy to let her rush to them and explain how awful and bigoted her mother was being, just for wanting not to be grandparent to a freak.”

“Do keep your voice down,” Uđđi said.

“I’m sorry, have I offended you?” Nyyriki said. “I’d hate to think you were offended.”

“No, you know I agree with you on hybrids, if not on humans. But there are others here who it wouldn’t do to rile.”

“I suppose the Dronung may not like it, but she’s still receiving guests.”

“It’s not just the Dronung who might take offense; Lady Tarsuss has sent Magister-Imperator Carey in her stead. And Senator Carey is here as well, representing his son.”

“Mmm. Good reminder. The last thing we need is to have Lady Tarsuss cross with us. At least not yet. Which reminds me, have you spoken with Luviisa lately?”

“She claims to have something hidden behind her back,” Uđđi said. “She’s been very cryptic about it. Do you know anything?”

“No,” Nyyriki said. “But it has to be connected to her letting Aud Bjalki marry Skor. She’s been fighting that battle for years; your sister knows that well.”

“As does my niece. I’m glad Luviisa finally relented. I know I should be outraged on behalf of my sister but let’s be honest: Skor tried to be a husband to Venla. Didn’t even really try with Ljied. But he’s been in love with Aud since he was in college. If he’d had a choice, he would have married her back then, everyone would have been happier.”

“True enough. I could have murdered you back when you stepped out on Valla, and I still think I should have told her. But you chose each other, and while I’ll always remind you that I knew…I also know you do love her in your stupid way, and Valla, for reasons I’ll never understand, adores you. What I still don’t understand is how Venla ended up in an arranged marriage, what with Karoli being Karoli.”

“Venla volunteered,” Uđđi said. “Honestly, she doesn’t much care if she’s married or not, and she wanted a kid, so she was willing to go along with it. If Skor had been a bit more discreet, she probably could have stayed married to him, but he couldn’t help taking Aud along to a few too many parties, and…well, at some point, everyone has their pride. Anyhow, I’m glad he and Aud are together, but I don’t see what it has to do with Luviisa’s plan.”

“Maybe it doesn’t. Bit of old gossip, but….You know, Prince Kullervo lived in Aelfheim for a while. This was back when he was a young, drunken fool. I wasn’t primate yet, but I lived in the city and the Dronung asked me to report back if I heard anything. He was working for the city government and sleeping around with several different women and a few men, nothing too shocking or surprising. But he had one woman he came back to a few times. A co-worker named Vikdasa Bjalki.”

“Bjalki? Wait…you aren’t saying….”

“She gave birth to Aud. A few months later, he left town, holed up here in the palace, and soon enough he swore off alcohol. Vikdasa didn’t register a father, and you know how it is, if you have a kid and nobody wants to claim or assert paternity, people assume it’s none of their business. And it is nobody’s business. Except….”

“…except you may wish to have this conversation somewhere else. Someone might overhear you.”

The two men looked behind them, and nearly jumped; the woman was standing with a hand on her hip and a smirk on her face. “Hello Uđđi. It’s been some time. Lord Daiduson, I don’t believe we’ve met; I’m Audara Aljansen.”

Nyyriki smiled sheepishly. “I’m sorry, Ms. Aljansen, we have met. You were young, and in a school debate competition, and as Jarl of Aelfheim, I was one of the judges.”

“Ah! I didn’t think you would remember, and it was very brief,” Aud said, reaching out and grabbing Daiduson’s wrist.

“Well, you piqued my curiosity. Now, I am assuming our previous conversation….”

“It has some bearing on what my mother-in-law wishes to discuss with both of you,” Aud said. “But not here. Not now. You are both invited to visit with us in Tromsø in two weeks; more information will be sent to you.”

Nyyriki raised an eyebrow. “I had always wondered. But you know…I see it now. Can’t believe I didn’t before. If it’s what I think it is…well, I have always believed that Jotnarherath deserved a full-time leader.”

“Well said, Lord Daiduson,” Aud replied. “And Uđđi, I do hope you will pass along to Venla my sincere apologies. I know I have done some things that wronged her; whatever my reasons….”

“Venla has Siru from the relationship, and she wouldn’t trade Siru for anything,” Uđđi said. “And she understands. We all do. One of the reasons I’m not going to arrange a marriage for Tursten or Dakmar. Oh, I want them to marry a Jotnar – and I’ve been clear about that. But I don’t want them to marry someone they don’t love. Anyhow, understand that the House of Lavra holds you and your husband in high regard.”

“I am quite certain my mother-in-law would reciprocate the sentiment,” Aud said. “Now…I do hope you will stop gossiping like a couple of schoolgirls.”

“Of course,” Nyyriki said. He then added, in barely a whisper, “Well-born Audara.”

Aud smiled, and nodded.

She moved on from the two of them. They were allies, but it was good to confirm it. Most of those in the room were not. But that was fine; she was used to feeling disdain from crowds like this. At least there were some allies, some who viewed her as something other than a homewrecking interloper. As for the ones who had not accepted her yet….

“Have to admit, Aud, you coming to one of these with Luviisa while Skor stays back with the kids? Not something I would have ever expected.”

Aud wheeled at the sound of the voice. “Lady Umbas. It’s good to see you.”

“I’m sure it is,” Ljied replied, sarcasm dripping from every syllable. “Here for a victory celebration, Ms. Aljansen?”

“It would hardly be the right place for that,” Aud said. “I am here to help Mother Luviisa pay respects to the House of Sjedi. And to give Skor some more time with Riggu and Siru. He doesn’t see either as much as he’d like.”

“Aud, I know you married Skor, I know you’ve been dating him for decades. I know you think the best of him. And so it gives me no pleasure to tell you that Skor sees Siru and Riggu exactly as much as he would like, and if anything, he sees them both too much for his taste. I am hoping, for the sake of the child I understand is on the way, that he will care more about the progeny of his one true love than he did the other two children he sired.”

“I think you would be surprised,” Aud said.

* * *

Back in Tromsø, in Skor’s mansion, Siru and Riggu were flopped down on the couch, watching a knadlegr match.

“So,” Skor said, glancing up from his pad, “what do you want for dinner?”

“I dunno,” Siru said. “Riggu, what do you want?”

“They’ve got a Rixie’s in Jutuneim, but I know we’re not gonna go there,” Riggu said.

“I was thinking we’d order in,” Skor said. “You guys like Graynav’s, I know.”

“Yeah, Core Cuisine is okay,” Siru said. “I’ll take the tromolak, and tell them I want it actually spicy, not Jotnar spicy.”

“Sure, yeah,” Riggu said. “I’ll do a ricidu sandwich with spek.”

“All right,” Skor said, punching the order into his pad. “Should be about 45 minutes.”

They were quiet for a bit as they watched the match continue.

“So Riggu…how is school going?” Skor asked.

“Fine,” Riggu said.

They continued watching.

“I have to say, you were both very good to Aud. I know it’s not easy….”

“She’s fine, father,” Riggu said. “You aren’t getting back with mom, so it’s fine.”

Siru shot Riggu a quick smile; he rolled his eyes.

“And you were very gracious, Siru, I….”

“I really don’t want to talk about Aud,” Siru said.

They watched the match some more.

“I do want you to know,” Skor finally said, “that Aud, your new sibling…none of it changes my feelings for you both.”

“Oh, we know, dad,” Siru said. “We know.”

“All right…well good,” Skor said. “I wouldn’t want you to think…I mean, there are some big things coming, big changes for our family. I can’t say much more, but…Aud and your grandmother have some big things they’re working on. And when we finally can tell you about them, well, you’re going to be surprised, but again, I promise…you both will benefit.”

“That’s great, father,” Riggu said.

“Yup,” Siru said. “Terrific.”

“All right. Well, I’ll get drinks around,” Skor said, getting up and going to the kitchen.

Siru and Riggu kept watching the match.

* * *

Rixie and Alex walked through the door to the small meeting room off the main reception area. “Lord Sjedi, Lady Mother Sjedi,” a functionary said, “I present the representative of the Tarsuss Family, Magister-Imperator Rixie Carey; and the representative of the Carey Family, Sen. Alex Carey.”

Rixie’s first thought was that the new Lord Sjedi looked very tired, sitting as he was at the head of a small conference table. His mother sat at his left. Rixie sat down in the seat the functionary pulled out for her, while Alex landed his scooter next to her on the table.

“Lord Sjedi,” Rixie said, “And Ms. Eusoneusis. On behalf of Lady Tarsuss, I express the greatest sympathy for your loss.”

“As do I, on behalf of Capt. Carey,” Alex added.

“Thank you,” Lera Eusoneusis said. “Rajin?”

“I’m…sorry, mother. And to you both. It has been a long four days. The House of Sjedi welcomes your sympathy, Magister-Imperator. Senator.”

Alex sighed. “No, you don’t,” he said. “You’re sick and tired of getting told how sorry people are, and I don’t blame you. I lost my father. I know how it is.”

Rajin looked up in Alex’s direction. “Even if true, I would never say such a thing, you know.”

“Obviously. It would be ungracious,” Alex said. “But that doesn’t mean that I don’t understand.”

“We appreciate your candor, Senator Carey,” Lera said. “Tursas would have appreciated it, too. He always hated these events. He felt like they were less about showing grief and more about performing it. I, of course, was a commoner, so I always agreed.”

“For someone who hated this kind of ceremony, dad spent a lot of time conducting ceremonial duties,” Rajin said. “Never understood that.”

“He saw a difference,” Lera replied. “Tursas saw his work as Governor-Regent as a necessary duty. He believed it helped to keep Jotnarherath going. I’m not going to say it wasn’t sometimes frustrating, having him gone to hearings, but he wouldn’t have been happy sitting home, spending the family money.”

Rixie couldn’t help but notice the slight side-eye that Rajin gave his mother at that statement. She smiled. “I only met your husband a few times – a few receptions with Lady Tarsuss. But he always seemed quite happy and content with his position. Service can be its own reward.”

“Dad was always saying things like that,” Rajin said. “But in the end, he spent so much time on service that he had no retirement.”

“Rajin….” Lera said in a tone that had a clear warning beneath it.

“My dad was a soldier,” Alex offered. “He died in combat. A noble death, saved lives, all that. I never really cared about any of that, though.” He gave Lord Sjedi a smile. “I just missed my dad. It didn’t matter that he died a hero. He was still dead.”

Rajin Sjedi’s lip twitched. “Yeah. That’s the truth. Well…thank you both for coming. Are you planning to ambush me with proposals, like half the other families have?”

Rixie smiled. “Not at all. Lady Tarsuss simply wants you to know her door is open, as it is to all the noble families.”

“And the House of Carey is establishing a tradition where we refuse to do something so inconsiderate, at a time when our focus should be on helping you in your time of need,” Alex added.

“All right. Well…thank you both,” Rajin Sjedi said. “The House of Sjedi is grateful for your time.”

Lera waited for the door to close, before saying, “Rajinvalt Kaleva Sjedi, you may be head of our house, but your father would be ashamed of your conduct. I am ashamed of your conduct. Those were the representatives of Lady Tarsuss and Lord Carey! Lord Carey, who is married to Lady Tarsuss’s sister! They were quite a bit more decent than you deserved them to be. And you will not criticize your father again, even obliquely. Emperor’s Balls, forty years from now, when Hloda is sitting here, would you like her going over every problem she had with you?”

“I’m sorry,” Rajinvalt said. “It’s just hard. It wasn’t fair, what dad had to go through. If the Dronung had been here….”

“Your father was happy, Rajin.”

“The family wasn’t always happy, though.”

Lera sighed. “I know, Rajin. I know. But you are now head of a noble house, one of the Ten Families of Jotnarherath. Your father taught you what that meant, from a very young age. Do not behave as if you have forgotten.”

“I won’t,” Rajin said, studying his pad. “So who’s next?”

Lera pressed her pad. “We are ready for the next family.”

The door opened, and the functionary said, “Lady Luviisa Aljansen, and Ms. Audara Aljansen, representing the House of Aljansen.”

“At last,” Luviisa said, as she came into the room, “the parade of non-Jotnar houses is over. Lord Sjedi, Lera, we are so sorry.”

“Thank you, Lady Aljansen,” Rajinvalt said. “Do sit.”

He watched the two carefully; he knew Aud pretty well, as Skor Aljansen had been effectively dating her for decades. He was a bit surprised that Skor wasn’t there, but he knew that Luviisa had a reputation of being very meticulous in her actions, so there was surely a reason for it.

“The House of Aljansen is very distraught that your father has died,” Aud said. “Given that he spent his life in service to Jotnarherath, he deserved a retirement.”

“Yes, he did,” Rajinvalt said. “But duty, all of that.”

“Right. Duty,” Luviisa said. “He should have been free to do what he wanted. I…would never say this publicly, but this is the Dronung’s fault.”

“Luviisa?” Lera said.

“Oh, Lera…with respect, you are Aementi. You can’t really know how it feels to have the Dronung living in Tuaut, instead of Naesavarna,” Luviisa said. “I’m sure Tursas never complained about the position his cousin put him in. He was a true Jotnar, and a fine person. He recognized that Jotnarherath needed a steady leader and he provided it. But it was his cousin’s job to do that, not his.”

“And it will only get worse,” Aud said. “At least Rajenlif was born here on Jutuneim, but not Vallero. And after her, what then? They won’t be Dronungs or Jofurs, they’ll be Emperors and Empresses. They may not even be fully Titan.”

“But we did not come here to vent,” Luviisa said, with a smile. “We simply came here to tell you that the House of Aljansen stands with all the true Jotnar houses. And that in your time of grief, we hope that you know that we Jotnar are bound by flesh and spirit, and that our one family will get through this, and come out stronger on the other side.”

Rajin Sjedi nodded, and reached out a hand. “I strongly agree, Lady Aljansen. And I thank you for your kind support.”

* * *

Eyrn had finished her circuit of the room, and looped back to find Rixie and Alex; she hoped they could perhaps find time for dinner before they departed. She spotted them across the room, Rixie walking up to Prince Kullervo, Alex gliding alongside her. And then Rixie did something that shocked Eyrn. She gave Kullervo a quick hug. Not overly long – and not unusual for Jotunn who knew each other well. But as far as Eyrn knew, neither Rixie nor Alex knew Kullervo well.

She sped up just a little, in hopes of catching a part of the conversation. She wasn’t sure why; maybe it was old habit. She had spent many years listening in on conversations the soldiers had, trying to live through them vicariously. You could pick up a lot of good gossip if you just kept your ears open.

“…I don’t know if it’s fair to ask Isku,” Rixie was saying. “But she mentioned him as one of her favorite players, and….”

“Are you kidding?” Kullervo said. “He would be delighted! I’d ask him, but really, you should call him. He’ll give her some gear; indeed, if he doesn’t have tickets for her when the Valkyries play in Maeatuntaema, I’d be shocked. And not just because he owes you for the things you sent him.”

“I was glad to,” Rixie said. “And that was a fair trade, he sent Alex some autographed jerseys for Rixie’s.”

“Knadlegr is a really popular sport for people to watch at the bar,” Alex said. “And the Valkyries have been good for a while. They have a big following in the Empire proper. It was nice of him.”

“Even so. Isku will be glad to do it, he’s your…well, he’s your friend, right?”

“He is,” Rixie said.

“And I’m glad you got to meet folks on Sininentavas. It sounds like you enjoyed yourselves.” Kullervo paused a moment, and said, “Rixie…how is…uh…how is Vwokhu?”

“She is doing well. She told me if I saw you I should send her regards,” Rixie said. “And that if you find yourself on Sininentavas, she and Akwe would welcome you and Tellervo.”

“Tell her when you see her next that Tellervo and I would be glad to welcome them should they ever find themselves on Jutuneim,” Kullervo said. “I am glad…very glad…that she is well.”

“She is very happy,” Rixie said. “Very.”

Kullervo nodded, and smiled. “That is…a wonderful thing. Now, are you sure I cannot convince you to stay another night?”

“It’s my fault,” Alex said. “I have a load of work to do.”

“We both do, unfortunately. But perhaps next month, we can find time to get back. Depending on when Thyllia has her child, of course.”

“Let me know when she does,” Kullervo said, quietly, but loudly enough that Eyrn could hear. “If we can make it work…I would…well…if she would….”

“You are always welcome to visit us on Avalon,” Rixie said. “And I can’t think of a better reason.”

“And don’t worry about imposing,” Alex added. “I know darn well that Pryvani has three VIP suites open right now and she’d open one up for you, there’s plenty of room.”

“A VIP suite by Lady Tarsuss’s standards is probably worth the visit on its own,” Kullervo said with a smile. “Have a safe flight back, both of you. And Rixie…it is good to see you again.”

“It’s good to see you,” Rixie said. “Oh! Hi Eyrn, didn’t see you. Well-born Kullervo, have you met Ambassador Bass?”

“Retired Ambassador Bass,” Eyrn said, reaching out her hand, and looking up at the man. “These days I just answer questions for the Emperor. Good to see you again, Well-born Kullervo.”

“Ambassador, it is good to see you. And don’t be modest – I know how much my sister and brother-in-law value your counsel. As they should. I won’t keep you; I know that you were probably coming over to talk to Rixie, not me. But you have my deepest condolences, and deepest respect.”

“Thank you,” Eyrn said. “I appreciate that. Safe flights, Well-born Kullervo.”

“Smooth landings, Ambassador. And Rixie…give Isku a call. Really.”

“I will, thanks…Kullervo.”

As Kullervo nodded, and turned away, Rixie turned back to Eyrn. “Do you want a lift? We have to stop to refuel at Archavia; the Amaterasu is going to be nicer than whatever commercial flight you have booked. Or did you fly yourself?”

“No, I took Strong Star, but I don’t want to inconvenience you,” Eyrn said.

“Yeah, like It’s an inconvenience,” Alex said. “Like Rixie said, we’re borrowing the Amaterasu. It’s ridiculous for only three people to be on it. There’s plenty of room. Plus we haven’t had a chance to talk for a while, it would be nice. Who else can I talk to about Paul Molitor? Okay, sure, I can talk to Nick, but he just keeps reminding me Molitor was born in Minnesota and played for the Twins for a little bit, and like, who cares, he’s a Brewer, everyone knows that.”

Eyrn smirked. “The Brewers always feel like a made-up team to me. I liked the Milwaukee Braves when Hank Aaron played for them, and then they moved to Atlanta, so….”

“Right, right, you’re old, we get it,” Alex said. “Seriously, Eyrn, there’s plenty of room, even if you’re a Titan.”

“Well…I can hardly say no to that.”

“Great!” Rixie said. “We’re at Pad 71, Terminal Six. We’re planning to lift in about twelve hours. That enough time?”

“Easily,” Eyrn said. “I used to run on a 24-hour clock, remember?”

Kullervo smiled as his daughter headed off with her friend. (Such a marvelous, simple thing; his daughter and her friend. He was eternally grateful to the fates that had convinced Rixie to seek him out.)

“How you know Magister-Imperator Carey?”

Speaking of daughters.

“I’ve met her a few times, Audara,” he said, turning to her. “How are you doing? Are you feeling well?”

“Quite well so far, thank you,” Aud said. “I always thought it strange, her claiming Jotnar heritage. Whatever the records may say, she’s a Hoplite.”

“She is of Savarnan flesh, Aud,” Kullervo said. “Even by your narrow views, a child born to Jotnar parents is Jotunn, even if they are raised apart from our home. That is one thing you have always been emphatic about.”

“I have found bloodlines to be a bit less determinative than that,” Aud said, sipping a glass of juice. “Just because one has a heritage does not mean they are always allowed to claim it.”

“Hmm,” Kullervo said, not knowing quite how to answer.

“Speaking of heritage, did you ever wish that you were to be Jofur? That you would sit on the Carba Throne, not Rajenlif?”

“When I was young and foolish, yes,” Kullervo said with a shrug. He looked over his shoulder at his sister, who was busy greeting Varva Hannøsdat. “But I’ve seen what Rajenlif has had to endure over the years. As did you, for a time. The role of Dronung is extremely difficult if one is to perform it well. Had I been the eldest child, well…our people would not have been served as well as they have been by Raja.”

“Still,” Aud said, “were you Jofur, your eldest daughter would succeed you. Do you ever wish that was the case, for her sake?”

Kullervo blinked a couple of times, and tried to read Audara. She was clearly referring to herself, not Swipul, and definitely not Rixie – she didn’t know about Rixie yet.

And something told Kullervo that it wasn’t bad that she didn’t.

“My eldest daughter is smart enough to realize that the office of Dronung is not a reward, but an imposition of duty. I wouldn’t want her to have to take it on. She leads a comfortable life, she is happily married; that is truly the best we can hope for. Don’t you agree?”

“I don’t know, Well-born Kullervo,” Aud said, downing her juice. “I’ve always thought that fortune favors those who strive for more. Safe flights.”

“Smooth landings, Ms. Aljansen. And give my regards to Skor and Lady Aljansen,” Kullervo said.

He watched his daughter leave, and tried to put the conversation out of his mind. Aud could want to be Dronung, but there was no way for her to be Dronung. And whether she knew it or not, her ability to avoid the Carba Throne was a blessing, not a curse.

* * *

The Amaterasu had reached deep space, and Alex was at the controls; he would be setting them to autopilot soon enough, and really could have done so already, but he enjoyed conning a warp ship. He was doing something that would have been impossible when he was growing up on Earth, and illegal for most of his time in the Empire; he could be forgiven for enjoying it. Meanwhile, Asteria had been very excited to see Auntie Eyrn, but very tired from a long day running around with other children of visitors to the reception, so she was currently down for the night.

Rixie and Eyrn were in the forward common area; both were wearing casual clothing. Rixie was nursing a med, while Eyrn drank coffee.

“I’m glad Poly is getting on well at the Academy,” Rixie said. “And I know, being your kid and Aerti’s kid, that she’s not looking for favoritism, and she won’t get it, exactly, but…well, the name Bass is going to stand out. If she’s good, her C.O.s won’t miss it. Granted, if she’s bad, they won’t miss that either, so it’s a double-sided axe, but….”

“If she isn’t good, she should get noticed,” Eyrn said. “But I’m not worried about it. I’m less worried about her than I’ve been for a very long time. She’s my kid, more than Aerti’s — she never really knew how to settle down. But I think she’s found a career that will let her explore, assuming she survives the war.”

“You’re handling that part of it…better than I’d expect, really,” Rixie said. “I think I’m more nervous about Ryan, and I haven’t lost any relatives to the war yet.”

Eyrn sighed. “I’ve got a lot of practice at losing people. Been doing it since I was two. I figured out long ago that none of us get enough time with each other. I’m not saying it’s easy; I know if something happens to Poly it will cut me even deeper than losing Aerti did, and that cut deeper than losing my human parents did. But I know that if it happens…well, if it happens, I got the time with her I got. And all any of us can do is enjoy that. Maybe my parents were right, and there’s a heaven we all go to after we’re dead and we get to see everyone again. But if not…well, if not, we got the years we got. And like any gift, you can’t complain you didn’t get more.”

“I wish I had that kind of perspective,” Rixie said.

“I do too,” Eyrn said with a rueful smile. “I figure if I keep saying it, it’ll stick, eventually.”

Rixie smiled. “It’s okay to actually hate the universe and yell at fate, you know. It took a good man when it took your husband. Hells, I’m frakking mad about what it did to my son.”

“I’ve done it. Doesn’t help. And the person who made the decision for Aerti to die is Aerti, and it was the right decision and I hate it. But the man I love…he wouldn’t have been able to live with himself if he hadn’t taken that last shot.”

“And it was one frakking good shot,” Rixie said. “Best shot in history.”

“Hell yes,” Eyrn said.

They were quiet, for some time, before Eyrn said, “So, how do you know Kullervo?”

“Huh? Oh…uh…long and boring story.”

Eyrn watched Rixie, and raised an eyebrow. ”We’ve got time, I don’t mind being bored.”

“Nah, you…wouldn’t want to know. Really.”

Eyrn’s other eyebrow went up. “Okay, you’re good at lying when you’re on your guard, but you aren’t on your guard. Out with it.”

Rixie chuckled. “I really can’t tell you, Eryn. It’s…not a story I can share.”

“Rixie, I’ve known you for decades. You know I can keep a secret. And I can tell you want to tell me. Whatever this story is….”

“He’s my dad,” Rixie said.

Eyrn’s eyes went wide. “He’s…your dad?”

“Yeah,” Rixie said. “You…can’t tell anyone that. It’s….”

“So the Empress is your aunt?!” Eyrn said, setting her drink down and leaning forward.

“Yeah. But….”

“When did you find this out? How long have you known? And why didn’t you tell me?”

Rixie sighed, and rubbed a hand over her eyes. “Because I figured you’d…you know…get all…like this. I thought you didn’t care for the monarchy anyhow.”

“I’m an American, we got rid of kings while I was asleep. Always thought it was silly. Doesn’t mean I didn’t watch Disney movies though. But it’s not that Kullervo’s a prince. I…know what it’s like to be raised by an organization, you know.”

Rixie nodded. “Yeah, you always got it better than most non-Hoplites.”

“I had my parents until I was about 12, more or less. So it wasn’t the same, not by a long stretch. But I know how excited I woulda been if my birth parents had shown up when I was 20. Or, now, for that matter. When did you discover it? He wasn’t at your wedding, so I’m guessing after that?”

“Just in the past few months,” Rixie said. “Kullervo and my mom were in their teens when she got pregnant with me. Gave me up to the Hoplites, scrubbed it thoroughly so there’d be nothing linking me back to them. If Pryvani hadn’t interceded, I probably never would have found out.”

“It’s nice to have our fairy godmother to help,” Eyrn said. “Hold up – mother? Did you find out who she is too?”

“Yeah. She isn’t famous or anything….”

“Doesn’t matter!” Eyrn said, beaming. “Rixie, that’s awesome! You get to meet her?”

“I did. She lives on Sininentavas.”

“That’s why you were there! Wait…Fwoku? That her name?”

Rixie shook her head, a slight smile on her face. “Your memory’s too frakking good, Eyrn. Yes, Vwokhu.”

“So you’ve met her too! What’s she like?”

Rixie paused, but grabbed her pad, and projected a holo of her. “That’s her. She owns a campground on Sininentavas, she and her husband. Built it herself. She’s smart, and….”

“You look just like her,” Eyrn said, quietly. “Just like her.”

“Yeah,” Rixie said, quietly. “I do. I finally have someone I look just like.”

Eyrn smiled. “How did the extended family take it? Having you show up on their doorstep?”

“They’ve been okay, mostly. Akwe and Namø — my step-father and brother – have been pretty good about it, really. Akwe knew he had a long-lost stepdaughter, and I think he’s mostly happy that mom got closure. Namø…didn’t know, but he hasn’t been anything but nice. Sure, he admitted it’s a bit awkward, and for some reason he thinks I’m more successful than he is, but he was up front about that, and I told him it’s silly, he’s a teacher, I couldn’t do it….”

“Have you looked at your C.V. lately? If you were suddenly my sister, I’d be intimidated too. Especially given what isn’t on it.”

“You’re a Tol-Bot champ too, Eyrn,” Rixie said with a grin.

“Yeah, yeah, for another month, until the banquet, when they officially give all those titles to Darren. And about time. But you know what I’m saying, Rixie, you can’t blame people for being nervous about their super-successful sister.”

“I guess so? I don’t know really. Anyhow, I mean…I don’t feel like I’m anything special,” Rixie said. “Especially…I mean, we just left a reception with all kinds of primates and their representatives, and I just…I don’t feel like I belong there. I don’t care if I’m a princess by blood, I mean, whatever – I’m a Hoplite. You know? I’m…not a noble.”

“I’m not noble either, and I’m gonna be a primate sooner than I’d like,” Eyrn said. “And I can tell you flat out, you’re a lot more deserving than most of the primates, including our fairy godmother, and Pryvani would tell you that too.”

“It’s not deserving that’s the issue,” Rixie said. “It’s just…there’s that whole other layer of protocol. I’ve learned it, but it still doesn’t feel natural.”

“It isn’t s’posed to,” Eyrn said. “Protocol is supposed to put everyone on edge. Whole thing started as a way to weed out the commoners, but most of the time now it’s about making sure that everyone plays nice together. You may hate someone, but protocol requires you to be friendly. Once you realize that, it all fits together.”

“Well, if I ever need a refresher, I’ll call you,” Rixie said.

“Damn right you will. And don’t worry — I won’t tell anyone that you’re a princess. And I’m only gonna be a little bit jealous.”

“Why would you be jealous?”

“You’re a secret princess! That’s the plot to like half the Disney cartoons! I always wanted to be a secret princess, just turned out to be a secret alien. That’s not nearly as cool.”

“It’s not?” Rixie said. “I mean…secret alien worked out pretty well for you.”

Eyrn smiled. “Yeah. It did.”