And I Darken

Nicolae got past his reverence, grinning at her. “Well, are you ready, Lada Dragwlya, daughter of the dragon?”

Fire burned in her heart, and her wounded soul spread out, casting a shadow like wings across her country. This was hers. Not because of her father. Not because of Mehmed. Because the land itself had claimed her as its own.

“Not Dragwlya,” she said. “Lada Dracul. I am no longer the daughter of the dragon.” She lifted her chin, sights set on the horizon. “I am the dragon.”

“I want Wallachia.”

“What?”

“Make me vaivode.”

Mehmed frowned. “But that is the title for a prince.”

“Make me prince, then. You know I am capable. Send me with my Janissary troops, give me the backing of the empire.”

I did not choose to come here, Mehmed. I was held against my will.”

“But now I am asking you! Choose to stay! Choose me.”