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"I claim Miss Kielland for the next round You can have the captain," the third guard said

"Having a change of heart about partners, Foss?" Gemma’s card partner asked

"You betcha I didn’t think I would have to carry Captain through the whole gaht I re your recommendation--or demotion--to the Guard Lieutenant?" the captain said

"Yes, sir!" Foss said with a salute, drawing an amused, arched eyebrow from Gemma

"She looks fine," Prince Toril whispered in Lady Linnea’s ear "She’s just playing Karn?ffel--and doing well, I think Lady Linnea!" he hissed when Lady Linnea sank to the ground, relief ht-headed

"I’m fine I just," Lady Linnea couldn’t continue and instead shut her eyes and rested her head against the grieon wall

"She’s safe," Prince Toril said

"Yes," Lady Linnea smiled "She is"

After a h to stand? I would prefer to not let the his head in the direction of the chattering card gas shook like a newborn foal, but she brushed off her dress--which was dirtied beyond repair--and heaved her chin up, regaining some of her confidence

"May I escort you out?" Prince Toril asked, offering his arm

Lady Linnea took it with the composure of a queen and allowed Prince Toril to lead her up the dungeon stairs

"I find it refreshing that you care sothe silence when they returned to the palace hallways "She is lucky to have such a caring mistress"

"She is my close companion," Lady Linnea said

"Yes, because you allow her to be so," Prince Toril said

"Wait, you think that this is just a case ofkind to a servant because I ainning to see why you didn’t go after Princess Elise," Lady Linnea said, dropping Prince Toril’s arm

"What do you mean?" Prince Toril asked