Eleven months pregnant but still tall (by High-Elven standards) and elegant, Lissomny calls to her chambermaids to have her second-cousin Filigren granted entry to her private chambers.
“Have you read the documents I had couriered to you? Do you agree to these terms?”
The shorter elf sneers in response.
“A marriage of convenience. I gain a sizable share of your wealth and my family name is elevated back into the upper echelons of Glendorian society. What’s not to understand?”
Lissomny Sighs.
“And in exchange, you marry me and promise to claim this child as your own and never reveal their true origin?”
Filigren scowls.
“Yes, yes, I’ll pretend your half-cast brat is mine but when his true heritage is eventually revealed and this charade is finally over, I’ll still expect you to continue financing my, soon to be lavish, lifestyle.”
Lissomny sighs again.
“Unlike you, I’m an Elf of my word but, if my son ever does discover the truth and I find out that it was you who told him or were behind it in any way, there will be nowhere for you to hide and I will have you killed.”
For the first time since entering Lissomny’s chamber, Filigren’s sour expression pales.
“I swear, if and when the time finally comes, it’ll not’ve been me who told your mongrel son the awful truth.”
