The alarm bells go off and my gut drops. I knew this might happen sooner or later. War is inevitable, and our kingdom is the main threat to Marlbrooke’s downfall. I drop a hand to my stomach, wishing I could tell Connor about our little surprise that shouldn’t have to face the horrors of this world so soon, but he needs to keep a steady head. He sends me reassurance through our bond, and my heart warms. I wish I could be stronger for him, so I can fight by his side, but since my family were merchants, I never had to fight anyone. And after we were married, Connor wouldn’t let me lift a finger for anything, much let alone, a sword. “M’Lady, we need to get to the keep!” Our handmaiden, Lucille, rushes to my side and grabs my arm, bringing me out of my thoughts. We quickly step out of the