Susan hated company parties. Everyone pretending to like everyone and acting happy. People pretending to enjoy each other’s company while exchanging gayly wrapped presents. Plastering fake smiles on their counterfeit faces. Acting like everyone was their best friend. Pretending was not one of Susan’s strong points. If she liked you, she loved you—none of this ...

Part One | Part Two She sat on the steps that preceded the throne. Night encroached, a darkness imposing despite the fervent glow of lit torches. Her garb spoke of a warrior, with leather greaves and a chestplate made of the same. Steel-tipped boots tapped the marble floor, a measure of impatience in the beat. ...