5 Welcome (2/2)

”… is Ataman Jarek Jasray. The Ataman represents the Dragon Lords interests to the Count.” He finished, bowing towards the boy.

”Greetings Ataman.” She inclined her head in greeting. As the daughter of a Grand Duke there were few she had to bow her head to and fortunately the boy did not seem to be bothered, staring at her in wonder.

Ataman sounded like a title, but it was one she had never heard come across. She cast a glance towards Alexis and signalled her to ask about it.

”I beg your pardon Ataman, I am Vice-Captain Alexis of House Barsi, but it is my first time meeting the descendants of the Great Dragon, and in my ignorance, I do not understand the significance of your title.” Alexis smiled softly, she always doted on children.

Jarek looked up at his bodyguard for approval and explained gently, avoiding their gaze and fiddling with the sword at his belt. ”Ataman means I am first among the Lords who follow the Khan.”

Elya scrutinised him carefully. That meant Jarek held power over all the Dragon Lords, something that had never been seen before.

”Having such responsibility at such an age is impressive.” Elya praised, and the boy blushed.

”I was the first to swear allegiance to the Khan.” He offered proudly, fervour in his eyes. ”I followed him on his campaigns as we brought the rest of the Lords under his banner.”

Elya exchanged a glance with her Vice-Captain. No one knew how Nikolai had brought the Dragon Lords to heel, but now things were clearer.

And ominous.

A man of such capabilities was a threat to his enemies, and if her Father knew of this, then his urgency to arrange this marriage was understandable.

”You fought with the Khan during the war?” the boy looked up at her with sparkling eyes, shyness gone in his excitement.

”Yes, our Order assisted the Count on many occasions.” Which was probably the truth. The whole situation had been a mess and they would have fought on the same battlefields at some point.

”Can you tell me about it?”

”Jarek, wait a while. You can ask her later.” The major-domo interjected, making the boy deflate but before Elya could say anything he had waved at the manor. ”Welcome home Milady.”

That brought her up short.

He was right. In a short while this would be her home.

Hopefully.