It was a month before Rhea learned enough etiquette that Lady Arud no longer corrected her at the dining table or at tea time. Although Rhea was a quick learner, there was much to learn and memorize. Despite her convenient AI that would remember everything and supply the answer if needed, Rhea was determined to make everything as second nature to herself as possible.

It was a year before Rhea and Lady Arud both agreed she was ready to have her first tea party. A tea party where she would very well meet her future allies in the combative fields of high society.

Before she could meet these possible future friends, her father had a test for her to complete.

“What should I expect, Father?”

Calder never ceased to smile whenever she called him by that title. Rhea believed he liked it even more than being called by his name. For one who had never married or had children of his own, he took on the role of her father seriously.

“Favian Fern is the youngest brother of four. He’s an earnest lad, fair in his dealings, and always polite.”

What her father failed to mention was Favian Fern’s companion that prowled off the skyship that docked at the base of their isle. Black spots dotted with golden tan ran up and down a lithe feline body, the feline predator licked its chops as if deeming those it viewed as its next meal.

Although others would be afraid, all Rhea could feel was excitement. She’d never seen a leopard in person before. They were animals from stories, never seen in her old life, and in her new, she had yet to see such a beautiful creature other than her Wren.

If it weren’t for her father clearing his throat subtly beside her, she might not have retained her dignity so taken by the mighty predator before her.

Rhea played hostess and curtsied just as she’d been training to do so.

“Lord Fern, it's an honor you graced us with your presence.”

Rhea raised her gaze to see the man with his hand out as if to shake rather than the customary greeting between gentleman and lady, feeling as if it was a trap she glanced at Calder.

“Go ahead and shake his hand, Rhea, he’s a friend. No need for the normal flippery.” So very contrary to the test in etiquette Rhea had expected.

"Zara approves of you.”

Rhea looked up at the young man, no more than 18 years of age with a pleasant smile and crinkled laughter lines at the corners of his jade eyes. She made up her mind then and reached out to shake his hand before looking upon Zara, the leopard.

“She’s beautiful.”

Lord Fern turned to his companion and let out a low rumble from his throat.

Zara preened as if she understood.

‘ALICE?’

[…SEARCHING…

NAME: FAVIAN FERN

TITLE: FOURTH SON OF VISCOUNT

ABILITY: BEAST MASTER/ POLYGLOT

STRENGTH: 50/100]

Rhea knew that strength was high for his age. Already halfway to the strongest of his abilities was a huge achievement for someone so young.

Rhea listened as what followed were tedious but necessary conversations regarding the allyship between Ipheion and Fern. How the farmers faired in the numerous fields of produce, any necessary water distribution in certain areas, plants that were thriving, and areas that might need assistance by the natural talents of the Fern Viscount.

When Rhea went to excuse herself as it was time for Wren’s feeding, Favian joined her.

“I’ve always been jealous of the Ipheion,” Favian spoke first as they walked quietly toward the large stable-like building that housed Wren.

Rhea inclined her head toward him and Favian glanced at her from his peripherals.

“Access to such beautiful creatures as the sky beasts.”

Rhea nodded before opening the sliding door only to notice Wren wasn’t in her house.

Rhea searched the skies and saw Wren sitting at the top of the kitchen’s roofs.

Rhea giggled and shook her head. She caught Lord Fern’s curious gaze.

“Lord Fern would you mind a short detour to the kitchens, I know just the thing to bring Wren down.”

Favian smiled, “As long as my companion can join.”

“I’ll warn the staff we’ll have a couple of unexpected visitors.”

They arrived at the kitchens, Rhea ducked in while Favian waited outside. Chuckling as he saw the kitchen staff exit and hurriedly trot the other way before giving him brief nods and curtsies. Rhea came back out with an apron already tied around her waist.

“Come along, Lord Fern.”

“Favian, please.”

Rhea nodded before waving him to enter the kitchens and brought him to the newly dusted clean table at the back an already steaming cup of tea waiting for him and a bowl of water sat in a crystal bowl by his seat for Zara.

Little did Rhea know that this would be the start of a long-lasting friendship, for Favian had made up his mind that she would make the perfect younger sister.