Russel took his pelt away, wondering what guest it might be. Someone important or his father wouldn't have mentioned it. Another king perhaps. He hurried to furrier, planning to wash and dress well for the company. He might not be his father's heir, but perhaps by finding a poor sap with no son, he could find a kingdom for himself.
At dinner he met Victor, another king as he had supposed. He talked about his wife and daughter through the entire meal. No mention of a son. Russel paid more and more attention as Victor drank more and more mead.
“Stole her away, she did. Foul woman. Won't even tell me where she's hidden, and I'm her father! I only know that old witch is guarding her and I wouldn't cross that crone for half my kingdom. A bitter thing.” He tipped back his newly filled stein.
“And where is your wife now?”
“Gone,” he said, blustering. “Never was constant. Think she must have had half a spark herself. Made her a strong mate, but fickle. She's off to find something to kill me, no doubt. Wants the kingdom for herself. I tell you, Gowan,” he said, gesturing to Russell's father, “if you could bring me back my daughter, I'd lock her in a tower for your wife.”
“Accepted,” Russel said, rising. “I'll find your daughter and marry her myself. Spark of magic and all.”
“Wait, boy,” he said, slurring his words. “You don't have the first idea where she is or what to do when you find her.”
“Then tell me, old man. You want your daughter? Well, I want your kingdom. Fair trade?”
Victor laughed, spittle gathering at the corner of his mouth. “Fair? Not even near, but I'll make that deal for certain. There is only one way you can tie down a girl like Pandora, or her mother. That is to mark them, claim them. Do you understand me?”
“You want me to scar your daughter?” he asked, confused.
“Damnation, no! I want you to rape her. Well, in honesty, not that, but consummate, as soon as you can, first opportunity.”
