Rick stood in the demon camp's war room the morning after the coronation, surrounded by maps and reports. Vyra Ashenblade stood across from him, her two swords resting on her back.
"I'm sorry that I had to call you at this hour, Vyra."
"Don't say that. I'll do anything for the king." Vyra giggled.
"So...what's wrong?" She looked serious as she listened to what he had to say.
Rick stated, "I need you to monitor the security of the demon realm while I'm away."
He tried to sound more sure of himself than he really was. "You've been in the demon army for decades, so you probably know more than I do."
Vyra's love for him had stayed at that impossibly high level, and he could feel her pride and worry even though they didn't have any connection through the bond. "You're asking me to protect your kingdom while you go to Valdris for a meeting?"
