Chapter Eight

***

Calliope silently mused, returning her attention to the conversation at hand only when her grandmother squeezed her hand reassuringly and granted her a small smile.

"I know that this is more of a fated, arranged union. That it may be somewhat political as well but that does not mean that you do not treat my granddaughter with the respect that she deserves. She is a true gem, a radiant star that shines brighter than any other. She is a gift, Lucien Gray, and I trust that you shall cherish her more than anything else. She is the future of Ikraseon and should anything happen to her, believe me, I will rain down hell on you like nothing you have ever seen-all extenuating circumstances be damned. I would die for my family just as much as I live and breathe for them. Do not forget that even as we venture forth towards an amicable discussion on the reclamation of Ikraseon and the benefits we shall both accrue from this partnership."

Elisen's words were clear, firm and with the right infl