"You'll have to stay here for a while," Quinlan added as their hands parted. "The dragonkin captain is still at the fortress. She's been rather interested in what I get up to, and I'd prefer to introduce you to Alexios somewhere she isn't watching."
Brannoc rubbed a thumb over the raw skin beneath one of his freed wrists. "Worried she'll take a liking to me?"
"She's executing every pirate she can find."
"Ah."
The Fomorian glanced toward the distant sea, then back at the enormous tree towering above the estate. He stretched his upper arms, enjoying the freedom to move them without iron dragging at his wrists.
"Fine by me. Guess I'll have a look around. Go for a swim."
"You're my guest in my home," Quinlan told him warmly. "Let me take care of you."
"No need. I can-"
"Rosie!"
An answering rustle came from beyond the garden wall. His daughter hurried around its corner, her leafy hair bouncing as she ran toward him with a pout still firmly in place.
"What is it, Daddy?"
