Innocence Imprisoned: Court of Mystery, #12

Innocence Imprisoned

A Court of Mystery Novel

Sarah E. Burr

Spotlight Publishing Productions

Copyright © 2021 Sarah E. Burr

All rights reserved

The characters and events portrayed in this book are fictitious. Any similarity to real persons, living or dead, is coincidental and not intended by the author.

No part of this book may be reproduced, or stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without express written permission of the publisher.

Cover design by Sarah Burr at Spotlight Publishing Productions

Printed in the United States of America

Contents

Title Page

Copyright

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven

Chapter Twelve

Chapter Thirteen

Chapter Fourteen

Chapter Fifteen

Chapter Sixteen

Chapter Seventeen

Chapter Eighteen

Chapter Nineteen

Chapter Twenty

Chapter Twenty-One

Chapter Twenty-Two

Chapter Twenty-Three

Chapter Twenty-Four

Chapter Twenty-Five

Chapter Twenty-Six

Chapter Twenty-Seven

Epilogue

Acknowledgments

Author’s Note

About The Author

Other books by Sarah E. Burr

The Court of Mystery series

The Ducal Detective

A Feast Most Foul

A Voyage of Vengeance

A Summit in Shadow

Throne of Threats

Paradise Plagued

Burdened Bloodline

Sovereign Sieged

Crown of Chaos

Harrowed Heir

Ravaged Reign

Innocence Imprisoned

Ardent Ascension

Eternal Empire

More Cozy Mysteries by Sarah

Trending Topic Mysteries

Glenmyre Whim Mysteries

Book Blogger Mysteries

www.saraheburr.com

Welcome to the Realm of Virtues…

Centuries ago, priests of the Ancient Faith lorded over the continent, building their empires on fear and greed. Poverty and sickness ravaged the world, forcing a faction of rebels to rise and overthrow these tyrants preaching in the name of silent gods. The leaders of this movement, known in the annals of history as the Rebirth, proclaimed the realm would no longer answer to nameless demons and gods, but to the virtues of bravery, humility, kindness, and intelligence. Sealing their pact, these newly anointed leaders drank the dew of the fabled kingsleaf flower, marking them and their offspring forever as destined rulers of the realm with their royal eyes. Under their care and guidance, the dukedoms flourished for over five hundred years.

Yet, inequality and injustice persist. Malevolent foes plot their next move. It is up to Duchess Jacqueline Arienta Xavier and her loyal companions to root out the evils that haunt the Realm of Virtues.

Chapter One

Y ou look breathtaking, darling. His seductive words tickled the back of her neck. The Crepstian air suits you.

Duchess Jacqueline Arienta Xavier turned to face her husband, resisting the urge to run her hands through his wild, dark curls. After they retired to the royal suite for the evening, she wouldn’t hesitate a moment to do so, but with three hundred pairs of curious eyes watching her every move, Jax decided it would be best to show some restraint. She couldn’t have the citizens of Crepsta thinking their new Duchess was a lovesick maiden.

I think it’s the anticipation of returning to Saphire that has me so giddy this evening. Instead of pulling Lord Percival Pettraud in for a passionate kiss, she threaded her arm through his and escorted her husband to the dance floor.

Ah, yes. Perry’s lavender eyes twinkled as he grinned. I, too, am looking forward to being home.

At his tender use of the word home, Jax’s heart swelled with pure joy. After so many weeks—months, even—of tension and torment between them, to hear Perry refer to Saphire as his home once more gave her a happiness no crown or throne ever would. Jax nestled her head against Perry’s shoulder as they waltzed across the polished stone floor, which reflected the dazzling chandeliers hanging in the rafters throughout the grand ballroom.

Lost in this perfect moment, Jax could hardly believe when the string quintet reached the end of its harmonious tune.

Hearty applause for the musicians echoed around the room as they stood and took a bow.

Oh dear, Jax said once she realized the members of the renowned Crepstian quintet were taking a brief respite. I hope our guests don’t expect another speech.

Perry’s chuckle caressed her ear. With the amount of mead and wine flowing, I doubt most even notice the music has ceased.

Indeed, bubbling merriment surrounded them. Citizens from all across the duchy had turned out, adorned in their finest attire for Jax’s formal send-off. Food and drink flowed freely, and more than a few attendees looked a little glassy-eyed, despite the fact that they were only an hour into the celebration.

My, you two looked simply divine out there. Lady Uma Dorrow appeared at Jax’s other side, her smile radiant. As Jax’s lady-in-waiting, she was dressed the part in a beautiful sage ballgown that cinched at her petite waist before billowing out across the floor. On Uma’s arm was her beau, Yanis Croxford, an esteemed member of the Saphire Ducal Guard. He looked quite dashing in his ceremonial uniform.

Jax leaned in and kissed Uma’s powdered cheek. The same could be said about you, dear one. Uma had an ethereal glow about her.

A pale pink flush spread down Uma’s neck. She glanced coyly at Yanis. He answered by giving her a nudge of encouragement.

Jax’s keen gaze bounced between the two of them. Something to share?

Uma’s smile widened, threatening to split her face in two. As a matter of fact, we do. But I don’t wish to take the attention away from your celebration here.

Jax waved a hand. By all means, please do.

Yes, don’t leave us in suspense. Perry grinned, slipping his arm around Jax.

Uma placed a hand on Yanis’s forearm, her expression adoring. Yanis has asked me to marry him.

A few moments ago, dancing in Perry’s arms, Jax didn’t believe she could be any happier. But this news took her elation to new levels. In a rush, she gathered Uma in her arms, squeezing her with a fierceness that surprised even her. She had been trained all her life to restrain her emotions, to conceal them behind a regal, stoic barrier. But at such wonderful news, even she could not hide her joy. I could not be more thrilled for you. If anyone deserves such happiness, it’s you, dear one, she murmured quietly, only for her lady-in-waiting to hear.

Well, isn’t this a splendid development? Perry clapped Yanis on the shoulder. Congrats, old chap.

The soldier’s blush matched the shade of his fiancée’s. Thank you, Duke—er—Lord Pettraud. I am a lucky man.

Jax noted Yanis’s stumbling over Perry’s recent change in title. She herself had experienced no issue slipping back into old habits, referring to Perry as Lord Pettraud, her Prince Consort. However, Yanis had only known Perry after he’d been crowned the Duke of Pettraud…before everything had changed in the blink of an eye.

Jax rubbed her hands together, a myriad of wedding questions already forming in her mind. A summer wedding, yes? Or do you hope to enjoy a longer engagement?

Uma and Yanis shared hesitant looks with one another. Well, we don’t want to interfere with Lady Carriena’s celebrations.

Jax laughed. Virtues, how could I possibly forget about that? Carriena had only just sent a missive this morning, detailing another set of endless requests for her upcoming engagement party. Carriena Brunovaris, a longtime friend of Jax’s from their school days, was set to marry Bernard Hoftstead in two months’ time.

Uma squeezed Yanis’s hand. We don’t mind a longer engagement. I’ve always thought it would be lovely to be married among the fall foliage.

Jax looped her arm through Uma’s, pulling her away from her beau for a private moment, away from their dates. Then an autumnal wedding you shall have. With you being the lady-in-waiting to the Duchess of Saphire, I will strive to make it a true spectacle of love. As soon as the words flew from her lips, Jax’s heart shuddered with a dismal notion. Traditionally, a lady-in-waiting left the services of her Duchess once she married. What would she do without Uma by her side? Jax hurriedly buried the panic and pain rising within her, determined to focus on Uma’s happiness rather than her own.

Still, her beloved Uma knew her too well. Her lady-in-waiting leaned in close and whispered, Please, Jax, I know it’s unconventional, but since Yanis will be stationed at the palace, I’d prefer to remain by your side, if you’ll have me.

"If I’ll have you? Jax scoffed with an unladylike snort. She pulled Uma close, not caring about the guests’ quizzical gazes marveling over her rare displays of affection. I couldn’t imagine my life without you."

Emotion shimmered in Uma’s eyes.

But I hope you’re not offering to stay only because of my inability to function without you. Jax pierced her friend with a searching look. It was one thing if Uma wished to stay on at the palace. It was quite another if she felt she had to.

Uma tapped her chin in thought. Hmm, what to do, what to do? Live the rest of my days in a glorious palace, surrounded by the best food and the best of friends, or be sent off to live on some lonely estate in the middle of nowhere with only myself for company?

Happy tears escaped Jax’s amethyst eyes as she chuckled. Don’t think I’ll forget that you placed food over friends in that little declaration.

Uma joined in her laughter. Honestly, I see no reason for me to leave my role simply because I’m getting married. You’ve proved to me a thousand times over that women are entirely capable of doing other things in life besides being doting wives.

Their giggles floated across the dance floor.

What’s all this? Lady Sabine Arceneaux inserted herself between them, her hands on her slender hips. Her angelic features were pinched in scrutiny, as if she knew she had missed some big announcement.

Jax motioned to Uma, as it was not her news to tell.

Uma took Sabine’s hands in her own. Yanis proposed to me earlier this evening.

Sabine’s squeal of delight nearly deafened Jax. Oh, Uma! The lady’s maid clapped as she bounced on her heels. I could not be more pleased for you! You will make such a beautiful bride.

As Uma and Sabine gushed over wedding preparations, another friendly face joined their merry little group.

I hear congratulations are in order, Lady Uma. Ziri Axesinger looked stunning in a slim-fitting, inky violet gown. Her beauty was on full display, and it was a sight to behold, as Jax rarely saw her spymaster clad in anything other than her leather training armor.

Uma managed to thank Ziri for her well-wishes before she was consumed by Sabine’s rapid-fire questions.

Yet another cause for celebration. Ziri’s Kwatalarian lilt wove through the air.

Warmth radiated throughout Jax’s body. I feel as if I’m living in a dream. After everything that has happened these last months, I find myself wary of all this sudden good fortune.

If anyone deserves it, it is you, Duquessa. Ziri’s heartfelt praise left no room for argument. I imagine you’re looking forward to your return home.

Jax gazed out across the grand Crepstian ballroom, one of the many cavernous halls carved from the bedrock of the mountain that towered overhead. While she had visited the region many times in her youth, this was her first time seeing it in a new light as her duchy. The craggy moors of Crepsta differed from the sweeping glades and valleys of her beloved Saphire, but Jax knew that in time she would grow to cherish this place as a second home, just as she had with the other duchies now under her care.

It has been some time. Jax let loose a weighty breath. More than four months had passed since she’d left Saphire under the cover of night, riding toward the War Council to challenge her foes head on. Am I right in saying that this will be your first venture to my homeland?

Ziri’s dark olive skin glowed in the flickering candlelight that illuminated from the overhead chandeliers. I never dreamed my path would lead me to Saphire. Up until a few months ago, Ziri had been a member of the Knights of Grace, a legendary band of warriors determined to seek justice on behalf of those who were denied.

Jax took her friend’s hand. I’m glad it has.

As am I, Duquessa. Ziri’s bronze eyes brimmed with sincerity.

As the musicians returned to their seats, Ziri’s attention was diverted as she sought Sabine’s lovely figure.

I must claim my dance partner. Ziri dipped her chin in pardon. She’ll have my head if she misses a single song.

Jax chuckled as Ziri darted away. It delighted her to see the romantic side of the lethal, calculated warrior. I hope she and Sabine will have the time together they so much deserve once we return home, Jax murmured to herself as Ziri twirled Sabine onto the dance floor. There was not a more striking couple in the room.

I see Ziri has the same idea as I. Yanis smiled as he reappeared, sauntering to Uma’s side. "If you ladies are done planning my wedding, I shall like a dance with my future wife." He winked at his betrothed.

Uma’s cheeks flushed at his teasing as she glided away with him.

Jax admired her dear friends, together and happy, her heart near bursting at the sight.

I thought you might want these instead of another dance. Perry materialized next to her, holding a small plate of bite-sized sweets he had procured.

Jax snatched one of the little cakes and popped it into her mouth. The sweet, fruit jelly filling burst against her tastebuds. And for that alone, I love you, Lord Pettraud.

Perry’s cheeks flushed with pleasure, but she noticed a hint of anguish lingering in his gaze.

Is your scar bothering you? Jax studied Perry’s midsection, as if she could see through his forest green suit jacket. The terrible wound that had punctured his abdomen left a jagged scar, a daily reminder of just how lucky Perry was to be alive. Jax boasted a faint scar of her own from the Coalition of Right’s ambush; it snaked up from above her right eyebrow to under her hairline.

I feel fine, dearest. Better than ever.

Jax continued to assess her husband, doubt settling over her. Although he had all but healed, Perry’s body had suffered terrible trauma in recent months, and despite his best efforts, Master Charles Montivarius, her court physician, had shared with Jax that Perry would never fully regain the strength he once had. His days of wielding a blade were over. The news had been quite a blow to Perry, but her husband’s perennial optimism had eventually helped him come to terms with his prognosis. Please, Perry. Tell me what’s troubling you.

Perry shrugged off her concern. I suppose I haven’t quite forgotten the sting of betrayal surrounding my change in title. His lavender gaze darkened, haunted by recent memories.

Jax’s protective instincts reared. You will have the answers you deserve, my love, as soon as we track down whatever hole Elias is hiding in. She took his free hand and held it to her heart. As your wife, you have my word.

Has Aizen had any news? Perry kept his tone level, although Jax could tell he was struggling to remain calm. Surely Kaul or Galahad must have been able to tell Highriver something.

She shook her head, her elation fading with each passing breath. How foolish she’d been, just moments ago, believing all was right in the realm. His reports suggest otherwise. But Highriver believes in their innocence, Perry. I trust his judgment. She swallowed back the white lie. She wanted to trust Archibald Highriver’s judgment more than anything, but she would not be satisfied until she questioned the Pettraud brothers herself.

Under her direct order, Vice-Admiral Highriver, a longtime and faithful member of the Saphire Ducal Guard, had led an elite squad of soldiers to the Duchy of Pettraud, Perry’s homeland. Highriver’s assignment was to ferret out the details of a sinister plot to overthrow Perry as Duke. For months, Elias Pettraud, the oldest of Perry’s living brothers, had been poisoning Perry’s mind against Jax and against Saphire. They had uncovered his nefarious scheme only after Jax’s skilled court physician discovered that a homemade salve, given to Perry by his brother, contained a crippling, dangerous herb called wispmark. For weeks, the wispmark had ravaged Perry’s mind, driving him to intense paranoia and the brink of madness. Luckily, Charles Montivarius had been able to undo the damage Elias’s salve wrought. When Perry finally learned about his brother’s deceit, he had forfeited his throne to Jax, declaring himself to be done with the political arena once and for all.

Jax had sent Vice-Admiral Highriver to Pettraud to determine the extent of the conspiracy, and whether Perry’s other three brothers had any hand in the matter. Elias was a traitor in her eyes and would be punished as such…if she could find him. Kaul, the brother closest to Perry in age, had confided in Highriver that Elias had fled the palace without any explanation soon after learning that a group of Saphirian soldiers marched on Pettraud.

At Perry’s downcast expression, her grip around him tightened. Elias cannot escape the might of Saphire. Out of the corner of her eye, she caught Major Aizen stalking the perimeter of the ballroom, scanning the crowd with determined intent. No doubt, he was searching for her.

Jax’s heart fluttered. Had the Acting Captain of the Saphire Ducal Guard received news from Highriver? Had Elias been found? Could they put this nightmare to bed?

Aizen’s sharp eyes finally found her, wordlessly beckoning her away from the party.

Without hesitation, she gathered the skirts of her lilac ballgown and floated through the crowd, which parted reverently for her. Perry followed close behind, needing no urging. He had seen Major Aizen, too.

They followed the officer out into one of the side halls that ran along the length of the ballroom. It was void of activity except for a few guardsmen patrolling the connecting corridors.

What is it, Aizen? Jax asked in a hush. She didn’t want any wandering partygoers to overhear their conversation.

Has my brother been found? Perry’s clipped tone revealed his true distress over the matter.

Aizen gave Perry an apologetic look. I’m afraid not, Lord Pettraud. I have news pertaining to another matter. His sharp features curled with sudden mischief. An unexpected arrival, in fact. Aizen held out an arm and motioned to the shadows lining the hallway.

Confused by Aizen’s playful change in demeanor, Jax leaned into Perry. An arrival? Who is it?

Approaching footsteps drew her attention down the dark hallway, and Jax’s breath caught as the shadows melted away to reveal the worn and wearied face of George Solomon, the true Captain of the Saphire Ducal Guard.

His warm, chocolate eyes brightened as their gazes met, and a wide grin broke across his handsome features as he held up a leather satchel in his left hand. I’ve brought you a coronation gift, Duchess.

Chapter Two

As he stared at Jax and Perry, their arms linked, the aching pain that usually wallowed away in his chest now failed to surface. Captain George Solomon’s heart thrummed only with joy at the sight of the two of them together. It had been too long since he’d been in the company of his closest friends. Too long since he had seen them happy and content in each other’s arms. Before George had left on his mission, he’d noted that a grave darkness had wormed its way into Jax and Perry’s relationship, yet now, the majestic couple looked as happy as they did the day they were wed.

George chuckled at their stunned expressions. Is this party in my honor?

Jax regained her senses first and burst forward, wrapping her arms around him. Oh, George! Thank the Virtues you’re all right.

He gave her a quick squeeze with one arm, his other still bearing the leather satchel.

Perry came to join them, clapping a hand affectionately on George’s shoulder. We haven’t heard from you in weeks, mate. How did you track us down? His buoyant attitude was a complete change from the sullen and rather cruel demeanor Perry had demonstrated the last time they’d been in each other’s company.

As Jax released him and stepped back, George gave a casual shrug. A coronation procession of three thousand Saphirian soldiers doesn’t go unnoticed, even all the way out in the wilds of Beautraud.

The delight in Jax’s amethyst eyes simmered into worry. You had us fearing the worst had befallen your party, Captain.

His cheeks warmed at her subtle reprimand. And for that, I apologize. I deemed it best that our squad sever all communications with the outside realm, for risk of being detected by any of our remaining enemies. But the five of us have returned, safe and sound. Indeed, the four elite members of the Ducal Guard who had accompanied him on his covert operation were already enjoying a much-deserved reprieve in the garrison bathhouse. But there was more to his extended silence than just security measures. When George had departed Kwatalar with his team, he’d needed time and distance away from Jax and the intimate connection that had awakened between them. After leaving her side, he had sent only one message, informing Jax of his arrival in Beautraud. He had yet to tell her everything that had happened once he crossed the duchy’s borders with his team.

Jax wrung her hands, her expression grave. Is…is it done, George?

In answer, he placed the leather satchel at her feet, a satchel containing the head of the tyrant Qylvard, Duke of Savant. It is done.

Jax visibly sagged with relief. Perry’s arm encircled her slender frame, lending her his support.

You have done the realm a great service, Captain. Her voice was heavy with emotion. George couldn’t imagine all she might be thinking and feeling in that moment. For so long, Savant had hunted her, threatening her very existence. Not only that, but he had brought about the downfall and deaths of many people throughout the realm. Savant had been a monster, bent on destroying everything in his path to seize whatever power he could wrangle from the clutches of others. His death also brought about the end of the oppressive and cruel Coalition of Right—at least, for the time being. George had no doubt Qylvard still had followers back in Savant. Would they take up the fallen Duke’s mantle, now that he was gone? Once word spread that Qylvard walked this realm no more, would the next Duke or Duchess of Savant seek revenge? Only time would tell.

Focusing on the matter at hand, George shook such ominous thoughts from his head. I cannot claim the credit alone. He reached for the back of his neck, always uncomfortable with praise. As Captain of the Ducal Guard, I would like to request the Order of Virtue be given to the men who accompanied me. It was the highest honor he could think of to bestow upon Theo Winthrope, Mohsin Gerraud, Pascal Lynse, and Xavros Muelle. Without their aid, George never would have been able to succeed in such a dangerous and challenging operation.

I’d also like to present, George paused, motioning his arm back to the shadowy alcove from where he had emerged, another crucial partner in Savant’s ultimate downfall. May I present—

"Why, is that you, Countess Braeknoch?" Jax’s eyes widened in shocked recognition.

George cocked his head in question toward the beautiful woman who had materialized from the shadows at his side. Countess?

Serafina Braeknoch ignored George’s query and smiled as she dipped into a practiced curtsy. Your memory is quite remarkable, Duchess Xavier.

Nonsense. How could I ever forget our time together? Jax closed the distance between her and Serafina with a warm embrace. How does your estate fare these days?

Serafina’s smile dimmed. I am afraid you afford me a title I no longer hold, Duchess. My late uncle regifted my ancestral home to a noble family from the north who came to Beautraud seeking asylum. I now serve as head archivist of the Azure Archives. She paused, biting her lower lip. That is, I used to serve. I’m on…a bit of a sabbatical at the moment. Her translucent, ethereal gaze, a swirl of gold and periwinkle, darted to George. There was a secret in her words, one that George was in on, and it sent a pulsing current of energy between them.

Jax placed a concerned palm on Serafina’s forearm. Surely, young Artie will see your estate returned to you. Her brow furrowed at Serafina’s troubling news.

Serafina’s uncle, Waylon, had been the Duke of Beautraud and a fierce ally of Qylvard Savant’s. Yet, in the wake of his death, his son Arthrinius had assumed the throne and pledged his loyalty to Saphire and her allies.

Oh, Cousin Artie has made the offer numerous times. Serafina patted Jax’s hand in reassurance. But I find I’m more content running the archives than I ever was running an estate.

Perry cleared his throat. I am sorry to interrupt what appears to be a happy reunion, but may I ask how a librarian came to be a crucial partner in taking down Qylvard Savant?

Serafina’s pale cheeks reddened. Apologies for getting carried away, Duke Pettraud. Although she had not been formally introduced, George had told Serafina enough about Jax during their journey to Crepsta for her to know Perry was Jax’s husband.

George noted Perry recoiled awkwardly at the mention of his title. Strange...

Serafina continued, Savant and his men stormed my archives whilst trekking through the wilds of Beautraud, stealing weapons and one of our artifacts. As head archivist, I felt it my duty to retrieve what I could, and that’s how I came across George and his men.

George? Jax raised an eyebrow, her gaze flitting astutely between the two of them.

George quickly cleared his throat. With Mistress Braeknoch’s knowledge of the Beautraudian landscape and her skill with a crossbow, we were able to catch Savant and his men in a deadly trap. None survived. Grisly memories of the bloody clash ebbed in the back of his mind, refusing to be locked away entirely. Despite George’s decades with the Ducal Guard, any death at his hands still haunted him.

I see. Jax clasped her hands in front of her. Well, Mistress Braeknoch, you have Saphire’s undying gratitude for the role you’ve played in Savant’s downfall. Her eyes twinkled. I hope you were able to retrieve the artifact stolen from your archives, as well.

Serafina bobbed her head. Indeed, I was, Duchess Xavier. I must thank Saphire for lending assistance in the matter.

George shifted on his feet. He knew Jax well enough to know her curiosity had been piqued by Serafina’s vague retelling of events. A scholar didn’t simply become involved in the capturing of a dangerous tyrant over an old relic. But Serafina had asked him to keep the existence of the Kindheart medallion between the two of them for now. He didn’t relish keeping secrets from his Duchess, but he also felt a deep loyalty to his new friend. Serafina’s story was not his to tell.

Well, Jax said, breaking the somewhat strained silence that had settled over the group. You both look like you might topple over at any moment. Major Aizen, could you summon the palace steward and have him escort Serafina to a suite in the east wing?

Aizen, who had been watching the entire scene unfold in his traditional stoic manner, bowed at the waist. Of course, Your Grace. Mistress Braeknoch, if you’ll follow me.

Serafina glanced back at George, her gaze pleading for a private word.

He, in turn, cleared his throat. That’s not necessary, Jax. I wouldn’t want to divert the palace steward away from the festivities in the ballroom. I am familiar enough with the layout of the Crepstian fortress from our previous visits to see Mistress Braeknoch to the east wing. He nodded toward the ajar ballroom door before resting his gaze on Jax and Perry. Please, there will be plenty of time to speak later. You two have a dance floor to enjoy.

Jax glanced at her husband, clearly torn between peppering George with more questions and leaving him to some much-needed rest.

Indeed, plenty of time, Perry answered on her behalf. We’ll let you off easy tonight, Solomon, but you can expect an inquisition at breakfast in the morning.

Jax’s brow wrinkled. Should we postpone our departure a day or two?

Departure? George looked to Aizen.

Aizen murmured, We’re due to leave for Saphire tomorrow, Captain.

Ah, I see. The simple pleasure of returning home to Saphire greatly outweighed his desire to recover from the grueling journey from Beautraud. Then I will be ready to ride by morning.

And there is no need to delay on my account, Duchess. Serafina looked a