Two sunrises had passed since the altercation between Alice (Alani) and Selene, which left them both questioning each other’s motives. The citizens of Kaicus found pleasure in reminding Alani (Alice) daily her presence was not welcomed in their city. So much so, the stares and rude gestures received had become expecting. The past was alive and well in the minds and hearts of them all, their home once destroyed and ruined by a war believed to be commanded by Queen Lenore. They trusted no one. She was an outsider, untrustworthy, and branded a true enemy of them all. She remained alive and unharmed made possible by the sole discretion of Jaeils command. The relationship established with Sammaria, although a Kai herself proved detrimental as she held a stained reputation as she too was considered an outsider. Being the target of such cruel acts it could not pry her eyes away from Jaeil. As a child she had been taught to stare at another was a sign of disrespect. It was not done intentionally, however she was confused as to why such an act infuriated Selene and not Jaeil. Sammaria noticed a change in Alani (Alice) as she wasn’t her light-hearted talkative self. She engaged in conversation, however when she did her choice of words were minimal. The shift in mood in her friend concerned her greatly, she was no fool and believed she knew the meaning behind her now seldom behavior.

“Alani (Alice) you’ve spoken very little in the past few days, “she says hobbling towards the stables where she was in the midst of fitting a horse for a pair of replacement horseshoes.

“No need to concern yourself, I am well.”

“You are not, “she pauses before continuing to speak, “The matter involving Selene has left you in sour mood.”

“You are mistaken as I am focused only on work.” Alice refusal to make eye contact spoke volumes. With her hand still tender from her wound she grimaced in pain as she hammered away at a nail into the insensitive part of the horses hoof. Her response warranted a smile to appear across Sammarias face as she prepared her next line of questioning.

“Are you curious to know who Selene is?”

“I am not.”