“I tried to warn them,” Canterwright said. He laughed, looking at his fellow conspirators’ angry glares. “We played for keeps. Tried to get you good, and lost. No use crying about the rules we would be cheering over later.” Viola nodded. Someone understood, truly. She gestured, and Nalus unlocked the cage. She stood before Canterwright. “I confess, you were not what I expected, Canterwright. You are not a sycophant, or a pervert, or a power-hungry […]

At the sight of Viola and Nalus, the nobles started to scream and protest. They demanded to see their families, the guard. Nalus was supposed to be on their side, and release them. This was a great indignity, how dare they be subjected to such torment! Only two remained silent. Illyana Petrovich leaned against the back of her cell, forgotten. She stared back at Viola with open hatred. If these bars were out of her […]

Viola loved the common folk, in her particular way. She loved their straightforward nature. They wanted to kill her, and end a tyranny that they had been told was real. And when presented with the facts, or better yet her facts, they turned on the true villains. Bound those they once called master, led them through the forests, and dumped them upon Viola’s doorstep. Viola ensured that each member of the force was duly paid […]

Sienna was released quickly. The bartender was already making excuses as he cut her bonds. He had been coerced, threatened even by the nobles. He was just another unwilling pawn. Sienna rubbed her wrists, grimacing. How little he knew about Viola’s world. No more would being a servant save the weak. The countess expected all to become strong in their own right. Weakness and subordination would not be a defense. She walked out of the […]

Viola stepped forward, and bowed her head. “May I apologize?” She asked. “On behalf of my family, and this situation…life. It has not always been kind, and you are my subjects. It is my duty to ensure your peace and tranquility. If any of you has suffered, then that is my failure as ruler. “I shall listen. I shall hear. And your voices will help change the destiny of the Valley.” “Get rid of the […]

The crowd parted. Illyana Petrovich stood in the crowd, her finger pointed straight at Viola. “Pretty words, countess,” the words dripped from the mother’s mouth. “And pretty people to accuse your accusers. You have it all planned out. “Was that how it was, when you murdered my husband?” Viola stared back at Illyana. The crowd whispered, suddenly fearful again. This they knew for a fact. Everyone knew what had happened at the countess’ coronation. “Froze […]