Kingdom's Hope by Chuck Black

called into the shop.
    Leinad nearly fell over at the mention of Tess’s name. He raised himself up and turned to see Tess exiting the same shop. His heart leapt within his chest at seeing her, for it had been over a year since they were last together.
    She was dressed in fine clothing and looked like a lady of stature herself. She stopped midstride and astonishment overcame her. Her eyes widened and her mouth parted slightly, but quickly transformed into a jubilant smile.
    â€œLeinad!” she exclaimed and ran to him.
    They embraced, and Leinad felt true joy in his heart for the first time since their enslavement. Somehow he knew it was true for Tess as well. They stepped back from one another as if to convince themselves that they were truly together again, even if it was for just a moment.
    â€œTess, is it really you?” Leinad said with wonder. He never would have believed that the freckle-faced little girl of Mankin would grow up to be the lovely, refined woman that stood before him.
    â€œSo this is the young man you spoke of so glowingly,” Lady Weldon said.
    â€œLady Weldon, please meet Sir Leinad of Chessington,” Tess said with pride and dignity in her voice.
    Leinad bowed a second time to Lady Weldon and was amazed at how polished Tess’s speech had become.
    â€œI am pleased to meet you, Sir Leinad,” Lady Weldon said.
    â€œThe pleasure is mine, my lady,” Leinad said as he finished bowing.
    â€œI have some unfinished business in the shop across the street. Tess, join me after a bit.”
    â€œYes, my lady,” she said with a smile that radiated delight and appreciation.
    Leinad turned to one of the other servants and asked him to finish the inspection for him.
    Tess put her arm through Leinad’s. “Shall we take a walk, sir?” she asked sweetly.
    Leinad smiled and led them toward a walkway that skirted the river. It was odd for him to see his sword-fighting companion as a poised and dignified young lady. It was apparent that Lady Weldon had given Tess what Leinad and his father never could. His feelings and his words felt awkward to him at first. It was like getting to know her for the first time.
    â€œEnslavement has suited you well, Sunshine,” he said.
    She dropped her smile. “Too well, Leinad. Look at me. Although I am a servant at her estate, Lady Weldon treats us more like daughters than slaves. I am spoiled and feel guilty when I see the plight of our people. It is difficult for me to come to the Market like this, but Lady Weldon occasionally insists. It has been months since my last visit.”
    Leinad placed his hand on Tess’s hand that held his arm. “Of all people, Tess, you should not feel guilty about being treated well, and I am glad you came to the Market today.”
    She smiled, but Leinad knew that the words would not change her feelings. “Have you heard anything of Audric?” he asked.
    â€œNo, I have not. I hope he is well. Some of the people are serving under difficult masters.”
    â€œYes, I know. With my new responsibilities at the palace, I have been able to contact many more of the people. For most, the bondage weighs heavily on them.”
    Tess looked down and away.
    â€œI’m sorry, Tess. I didn’t mean to—”
    â€œIt’s all right. I know what’s happening here. I would leave in an instant if given the chance,” she said defiantly. “How long will the King leave us here, Leinad?”
    â€œThe time is not far off, Tess.”
    They walked and soaked up every moment they had together, for their next visit might be months away, if ever.
    On their return, Leinad thanked Lady Weldon for allowing them time together and for affording Tess a safe haven in the midst of captivity. It was a day that both Leinad and Tess cherished for weeks to come.

INTO THE JAWS OF DRAGAMOTH
    Kergon continued to prosper and conquer. He became powerful in the region and in all of