The rest of the evening went well. There were no more surprises, and Pt’this was able to put his mind to rest and enjoy the party. Ann was almost sorry to see it end. But, she was starting to get tired, and she was a little chilly. Andy had found her a shawl, but it was no longer enough. They stood out by the front gate bidding guests farewell and thanking them for attending. Shunati and Voramini came out both wearing travel bags over their shoulders. Ann was struck again by how much the cousins looked alike. Rumor had it Shunati used to darken his hair so they could pretend to be one another however he would not confirm that. And she had also heard Vor’s hair used to be lighter when he was young. “Going somewhere?” Ann asked. They glanced at Andy who nodded. “We’re your transportation for the evening,” Voramini said. “We’re to take you to Green Glen for your h-honey... moon,” Shunati added. “Our what?” Sapphire asked. Pt’this whispered to her, and her eyes got big. “Green Glen?” Ann asked, equally confused but for different reasons. The elves didn’t allow anyone in their valley as far north as the glen. “Andy expressed a desire to get away from the palace for a few days after the wedding,” Shunati explained. “But the glen?” “It pays to be the cousin of the queen’s consort.” Shunati shrugged. “Shun scried me and asked if I knew of someplace. I asked Deyama, and she suggested the glen. There are two abandoned homes at the south edge of the lake. She talked to the elders and got their okay too,” Voramini explained. “The elders agreed?” Ann was impressed. The elders never agreed. “When you save the queen, her consort and all the children, even the elders are impressed,” Shunati said. “Shall we go?” Andy asked. “Ann is cold enough I’m starting to shiver.” Shunati nodded and took his and Ann’s hands while Voramini took Pt’this’s and Sapphire’s. They each started the transportation spell. Andy closed his eyes, and Ann looked away to avoid the flash. A split second before it hit, Ann saw Nim and Joanne in a kiss.