Anaisa's heart nearly broke as she looked at the woman in front of her. The familiar face was now more haggard, and marred with grief. It could only mean one thing.
"Deborah," She whispered. "Your baby…"
"And my husband," The woman's face hardened. "Dead."
Without thinking, Anaisa pulled the magic user into her arms and held onto her tightly. Deborah's shoulders shuddered, but after a moment she pulled away.
"Your Highness, Sanders said–"
"I'm Anaisa." The fake-princess grimaced. "The princess's body double to help save her from assassination attempts, but now I have a more important job, and you're part of it. I'll explain outside the city, but we have to go now."
Deborah hesitated.
"Sanders said my job would be…" The magic user looked at Anaisa's empty arms with a question in her eyes.
"Come along, please." Anaisa pled. "I promise, a life depends on it. Maybe many."
