It was late August when the wedding was to take place between Linda and her betrothed. Afterwards, the whole family would accompany them to London to see them off to a happy start. Raven had been both excited and nervous for her sister's most joyous occasion, wondering just what might become of her when it was all said and done. However, in order to keep Linda’s spirits lifted, she did her best to play the happy relative, even when it was not so easy.

*

"Remember to aid Linda in her packing, Raven. You know how forgetful she can be,” the mistress commanded.

“Yes, of course, My Lady,” Raven replied quietly.

"And make sure you keep her excited about the wedding. My poor girl seems to be quite nervous about the Duke. Assure her of his worthiness and fortune! Her father would be irrevocable cross if his one and only daughter humiliated him at a time like this,” the woman added.

“Yes, of course,” Raven replied.

"Oh, and Raven! Make sure to pack your own things as well,” the mistress said, putting on a forced smile.

“Yes, of course, My Lady,” she replied, understanding her meaning all too well.

Finally looking satisfied, Linda's mother shooed her away back to her sister's room. Raven dashed away immediately, though she did not seek Linda's comfort out. Instead, she hid away in one of the closets and let herself weep quietly.

As soon as her sister was married and settled down in London, Raven knew she was going to be kicked out of this home. She probably would not even get a chance to look for a decent job first, as it would be of no benefit to the Governor's family to support the likes of her any longer. She was still just a worthless street urchin they had adopted only to keep their young daughter occupied. Now that Linda was grown and off to marry, though, there was little use in a young ward remaining in their care.

Not that it ever really mattered to Raven. She was grateful for the life she had been able to live over these few years. Her fondest memories had been made in this house alongside Linda, and she would make sure never to forget any of them. She was just glad to see that her sister would be well taken care of in the years to come, and treated well by the man who would become her husband. Indeed, this was as fine an end as any.

After a good moment, Raven dried her eyes and composed herself. Then she left and headed for her sister's room, determined to send Linda off with a happy smile. Upon arriving she obediently helped her to pack all things of importance, and prepare her for the ceremony, which would be soon to come.

*

Eventually, the wedding day arrived, and Raven had no choice but to watch as her dear sister got ready to marry a man she was not entirely fond of, or ready for. It was such a shame in her mind to be made to marry in this way just for the sake of money and fancy titles. Nevertheless, it was a necessary obligation for someone of Linda’s status. Being raised with endless luxury had its cost, after all.

*

“R-Raven, I am not feeling too well. Do you think the ceremony can be rescheduled?” her sister asked quietly.

Raven laughed and came over to help fix up her hair. “Do not be scared, Linda. You have nothing to fear of getting married, or of Dashon. He is a fine young man, and I know he will treat you well,” she said softly.

Her sister gulped nervously. “I do not fear him in the long run, Raven. But tonight is…different. It is our wedding night, and he is sure to expect the same thing every man does, which I am not ready to endure,” she muttered quietly.

Raven smiled with understanding and paused to look her squarely in the face. “It will not be so bad, Linda, not with a man like him. Trust me.”

Her sister’s eyes widened with sad realization. “Raven… have you ever…?”

Raven suddenly burst out laughing. “No, no! Many girls living on the street were reduced to such acts, and it pained me to hear of it. I tried to be more clever than them. I knew it was wrong to steal, but I still chose that path over a worse fate. They were treated like dirt by the men, yet it was all they had to live by on. You, on the other hand, sister, have no such things to worry about. You have a good life, and are getting married to a good man. You need not be afraid, I am sure of it.”

Linda sighed. “Very well. I shall try to be brave, then.”

Raven nodded with approval and leaned over to kiss her cheek for good luck.

“But I only do this for you, Raven! I simply want to be strong, like you are. I cannot imagine living a life like you did. I simply would not survive. Yet you managed to, and without having to shame yourself. You are so admirable, sister,” she said gently.

Raven smiled bashfully. Living as a thieving street rat was admirable? Why, only her silly sister would speak such nonsense! Although, that is often what made her such a dear girl and companion.

“Alright, Mama will scold me if I delay much longer…” Linda sighed.

Then she stood up and gazed at herself in the mirror, admiring the fine silk dress she wore. “W-walk with me?” she asked nervously.

Raven immediately came to her side and took her by the hand. “Of course, sister.”