“I am well, thank you.” Augustus’s manner was warm, even fatherly. He smiled at her, taking in her state before proceeding with friendly familiarity. As if Ikisina were someone he’d known and cared for.

“I hear you’ve been fastidiously keeping your parole,” Augustus said, “I must say, Miss Navarro, you’ve shown yourself to be a woman of your word.”

Augustus’s smile only warmed. If the people of Lorendale were his children, it gave a parent reason to be proud when those children were obedient. Acted in their own best interests, and embraced opportunities for change. One of Augustus’s most central beliefs was that in the tenacity of the individual. That people have an incredible capacity for hope and redemption if only they commit themselves to it.

“There are few people that would admit such a thing and fewer more that would work to mend what was broken. I hope you realize what a rare gift that is,” the prince winked, “No pun intended.” He breathed deeply, looking over her records which sat in front of him before turning back to her.

“In this interest of continued service to your kingdom, I have an opportunity for you to continue on your path. As you know there are many who remain skeptical of gifteds—both collared and not—and would stigmatize collars as a thing of shame. I think you’ve proven entirely that they are an opportunity to grow. A temporary measure for long-term benefit. Given that…” He sat up, practically beaming, “I’m offering you an opportunity to serve as an assistant to our new gifted advisor, Florina Bellerose. You will accompany her out into the community as an ambassador of sorts. One who can destigmatize collars, and dispel the fear around them for both gifted and non-gifted alike. Should you perform this service well…” Augustus smiled.

“Well, then perhaps the time will sooner come where your collar will no longer be necessary.”

Augustus was clearly pleased. Yes, it was an amazing opportunity. An improbable one, given her class and station. But not everyone noticed a good thing when it was offered, and so he was gratified to know that Ikisina was able to recognize it for what it was: a future.

“That’s wonderful to hear.” The prince signed the parole papers and handed them to her. “Give these to the officer on your way out. Consider your parole ended, my dear. I’ll arrange for you to meet the Countess on the morrow.”