recursal/Fanatic-Fandom huggingface dataset:
Lady Cloris

Walther (nephew)

Bryn (nephew)

Regan (nephew)

Lia (neice)

Lady Cloris is Lia's Aunt. She lives at the Citadelle to attend her sister, Queen Regheena. Originally of a noble family of Gastineux.

## Personality

Cloris primarily exists to fuss at other people for not behaving appropriately or living up to their duty. She is something of a foil to Lady Bernette.

## History

* Cloris is present at Lia's kavah ceremony, admonishing her to be still.
* Lia recounts Cloris' attempts to teach her to make lace.
* Cloris' version of The Devastation focuses on obedience.
* Cloris describes the marriage of Lia's parents as a "confluence of destinies," but omits the word 'love'.
* Present at the Civica Coup.
* Frequently objects to breaches of protocol.

## Relationships

### Family

* Lady Bernette, sister
* Queen Regheena, sister
* Lia, niece

## Quotes

> [Lia] “My required attempts at lace making had always resulted in haphazard knots not fit for a fishing net, and my aunt Cloris accused me of deliberately not paying attention. It exasperated her even more that I didn’t deny it.” (KOD, Ch. 6)
>
>

> “Hope is a slippery fish—impossible to hold on to for long” (HOB, Ch. 28)
>
>

> [Lia] “She didn’t use the word *love*. My aunt Cloris called it a “confluence of destinies.” I thought it was a beautiful word when she said it, *confluence*, and I was certain it had to mean something beautiful and sweet, like a powdered pastry. She said the king of Morrighan was thirty-four and had still not found a proper match when a noble First Daughter of a kingdom under siege had caught a Lord’s eye on a diplomatic trip to Gastineux.
>
>

> *Confluence*—a coming together by chance, like meandering brooks that join up in a distant unseen gorge. Together they become something greater, but it isn’t delicate or sweet. Like a raging river, a confluence can lead to something impossible to predict or control. My aunt Cloris deserved more credit for her astuteness than I had given her.” (HOB, Ch. 43)
>
>

> [Lia] “It was strange that I hadn’t even seen Aunt Cloris bustling about. She was always hurrying somewhere, usually with a complaint about one chore or another not being done properly. For her even the protocol of mourning would have its shortcomings. She was a woman of daily tasks, but of no lingering, no laughter, no dreams.” (BOD, Ch. 47)
>
>
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Plot Summary: Kiss of Deception, Chapter 10

Lia scrubs pots, recounting
a time her father admonished her for speaking rudely to the Chancellor, rebuking
him for his greed even as he laments treasury funds are low.

In contrast,
Berdi apologizes to Lia for her earlier reaction, telling her she did the right
thing intervening with Pauline and the soldier – but that her youth and passion
will draw attention. She was only worried for Lia’s safety. Lia is overcome by
the gesture, and returns down the trail to her cottage, letting her hair loose
in the wind. She wonders if Pauline is already dreaming if Mikhail – her own
are always dull.

Lia is startled
by Kaden, emerging from shadows. She prepares to draw her dagger, and Kaden,
noting her movement, explains he was just concerned the soldier she embarrassed
would want revenge. He offers to walk her to her cottage, explaining he is now
a guest at the inn. Lia relaxes a bit, and asks about his friend (Rafe). Kaden
is confused, but eventually understands what she means.

Lia is convinced
by his quiet movements and deceptive eyes that he is no pelt-trader. She
wonders what kind of life he has led, and asks what brings him to Terravin. He
grabs her hand, just as Rafe calls out to Kaden, claiming his horse needs
attending. Lia notes that Rafe’s movements are also stealthy – and that he is
arrogant.

Kaden is
irritated by the interruption, but leaves - to Lia’s relief. Rafe seems content
merely to stare at her, until she ribs him about not taking care of the horse
himself. He changes the subject, asking what Kaden wanted. Lia parrots Kaden’s
concern about the soldier, and Rafe agrees the woods are dangerous – especially
for those alone, even if they have a dagger. Lia claims to be highly skilled
with her knife, not appreciating his attempt to intimidate her, but Rafe seems
unimpressed. She attempts to leave but Rafe stops her. Something about him
makes her pause, unable to break away from his gaze. He reaches out to hand her
the cap she dropped up the path. She thanks him, and reaches for the cap. As
their hands meet, something changes in his face and demeanor. Rafe is
unsettled, and leaves.
First Daughter

From the lore of Morrighan, First Daughter is an honorific accorded to royal eldest daughters born with the gift, or "Siarrahs". The gift is described as a "way of knowing," and resembles that of prophecy or psychic foreknowledge. It can manifest as visions, sounds, or feelings.

While the phrase itself can naturally apply to any first born female, it has a mystical and reverent assignation in Morrighan, particularly with respect to the first born daughters of the royal line. Descended from the historical figure Morrighan, the woman who led The Chosen Remnant to the land that would become the kingdom of Morrighan, the Royal Family has a special place in the religious life of the kingdom, and first born daughters of the line are accorded deep respect with or without the gift.

Lia is the current First Daughter of the House of Morrighan.
Plot Summary: Kiss of Deception, Chapter 35

Kaden is now convinced Rafe is more than a farmhand - his moves in the contest and his disposal of the body prove that.

He doesn't like Rafe sniffing around Lia, having heard her scream at Rafe last night during the feast.

He intends to dance with Lia at the Festival, hoping the way she flirted with him last night means they could at least have one night together...
Kiss of Deception, Chapter 1

[[1]]|Photo Credit

On June first, the day of her wedding, seventeen year old Princess Lia lies flat on a table with her trusted friend Pauline, her Aunts Cloris and Bernette, and her mother Queen Rhegeena in attendance as her wedding kavah is applied with knives into her back. She bristles at being called *Arabella*, her formal name, rather than her family nickname of Lia, a "simple name that felt truer to who I was."

Priests bless Lia's kavah and place ash on her forehead, as she receives her mother's blessing as First Daughter of the House of Morrighan. Lia's shoulder is stung by her mother's touch as prayers of safekeeping are offered.

Lia is hypnotized by the beauty of her wedding dress even as she argues against the match with her mother. She insists the wedding is a sham because she does not have the gift, while her mother weakly protests the gift may come in time. As the marriage was being negotiated, Lia briefly saw the King of Dalbreck and assumed from his advanced age that his son must also be substantially older than herself. The Queen insists that Lia is in fact a solider in her father's army, and marriage with Dalbreck is a crucial alliance.

Lia's father and Court officials enter to witness the King and Queen place the royal wedding cape on Lia. As the Court exits to attend the wedding, Lia has a moment to herself - and makes a break for it, running to the stables and taking two horses for herself and Pauline.

## Quotes

   *"I closed my eyes against the thought, knowing that soon the day would cleave in two, forever creating the before and after of my life, and it would happen in one swift act that I could no more alter than the color of my eyes"*
Cerberus Artificial Genetic Reproduction Project

The **Cerberus Artificial Genetic Reproduction Project**, often abbreviated as **CAGR**, is one of the most secretive research projects conducted by Cerberus Contracting and its research and development division. Spearheaded by then Deputy Director Aaron Spyker, the undertaking was massive but extremely successful. The intention was to successfully create real, living clones of other human beings. The project produced at least one known clone of Aaron Spyker, though it is rumored that others were created.

## History

The Cerberus Artificial Genetic Reproduction Project started off as an idea in the minds of Director Rook Bowman and Deputy Director Aaron Spyker in early 2020. Though the golden age of artificial intelligence and robotic soldiers was just around the corner, the two decided that the potential for such a creation was simply too good to pass up. To test the organization's technological prowess, the directors instructed the research and development team, under the supervision of Jordan Bryant, the previous head researcher for the division, to begin the necessary steps.

Just shy of a year later, after countless failures in the field, the first fully functioning clone, using the genes from the Deputy Director, was born. Given the name Marshall Maxwell, he was introduced to experimental advanced aging agents in order to boost the aging process. Within just a few days, the clone was fully grown to the mentality reminiscent of that of a man in his early twenties.

The next stage of the experiment included implanting the Deputy Director's memories directly into Maxwell's brain to supplement for those that he didn't have. This greatly increased his intelligence as well as combat potential, and it was decided that he would join the Cerberus Special Operations program in order to test his true capabilities.
Plot Summary: Kiss of Deception, Chapter 14

Lia and Gwyneth reach Devil's Canyon, a dry and dusty cavern the Terravin breeze does not reach. Lia admires the natural beauty of the place but laments the heat. Gwyneth shrugs off her shirt, prompting Lia to do the same.

Gwyneth reveals that she is aware of who Lia is - and can be useful to her. Gwyneth admits to having deep regrets of her own, but will not specify them.

They split up to pick berries, Lia following a trail down to an oasis. Lia hears hoofs and scrambles for her dagger, only to realize it's with her pack. She gets to her feet as Rafe appears on his enormous horse - Lia thinks of him as the devil, but is glad to see him just the same.
Cerberus Contingencies

Cerberus Contracting has multiple contingencies that were placed throughout the Network by the former Director, Rook Bowman. While most contingencies were automatic, some required either Director-level clearance or were only usable by Rook Bowman himself. After his death, the following contingency plans were made available for view for all Operators that had Director-level status.

**Contingency: Lockout**

In the event of a rogue operator, any Director could use this contingency to prevent them from causing harm to other operators. The Lockout would disable the HUD and radio of the rogue, but would send a current message to all operators connected to the Network through their own HUD, alerting them of the betrayal. Any operator that is locked out of their suit is considered an enemy of Cerberus and should be eliminated immediately.

**Contingency: Hellfire**

The Hellfire Contingency was only used once, as its direct purpose is to bombard the last location of Rook Bowman in order to prevent Cerberus enemies from taking his body or in the event of a vault-breach where Cerberus is overwhelmed by the enemy. This is one of the few contingencies that would effectively purge any sign of Cerberus' existence in an area.

**Contingency: Director MIA**

In the event that the current Director goes MIA, the Network would remove his/her clearance from the Network to prevent Cerberus' enemies from gaining access. Until the status of the MIA Director is updated, the Deputy Director would assume Director status and the previous Cerberus Special Operations Commander would assume Deputy Director. Any redacted or expunged information on the MIA Director would be accessible by the new Director.

**Contingency: Sight Purge**

The Sight Purge contingency is automatically activated by the Network once Operators leave the many vaults scattered throughout the world and the vault is deemed to be of no further use. Once this contingency is active, Cerberus operators are ordered to vacate the vault and retrieve what they can within 24 hours. After those 24 hours, the vault is cleared for all life via fire and subroutines wipe all terminals in the Vault. The vault remains as an empty shell, unusable to the outside world.

**Contingency: Freedom**

This contingency allows the Operators full access to their suits. This would allow each Operator to customize their HUD feed at any time as well permitting them to have access to the Network without the use of a terminal. The Lockout Contingency is completely useless once Freedom is activated, and must be reset by the current Director. This contingency can only be used by the phrase, "Let loose the dogs of war."
Plot Summary: Kiss of Deception, Chapter 24

The Prince thinks about how much of common royal behavior Lia rejects. Her dress and manner are never what he would have expected.

As he goes to pay Berdi for the week, he overhears Lia ask if Berdi was ever in love. Lia finally breaks down when Berdi asks if she is happy here in Terravin.

Lia tells Berdi she just wanted to be loved for herself, not because a piece of paper commanded it. How can she respect a man, a Prince that let his father pick his bride, and wouldn't even come to meet her before hand? He didn't care who he married. It made her feel like a horse for sale.

The Prince begins to understand how Lia must have felt.
Excerpt from The Last Testaments of Gaudrel (1)

Gaudrel tells a story to her grandaughter, Morrighan, in order to keep her focused on something other than her hunger as they flee scavengers.

While she frames the story as a fairy tale, the "once upon a time" is the story of before The Devastation.

## Analysis

* Introduces the theme of "Journey's End" (see Easter Eggs) setting up the journey that will end with Lia.
* Tells a story of a princess, now gone - potentially alludes to Venda, or her own childhood, as a Princess.

Back to: The Kiss of Deception
Plot Summary: Kiss of Deception, Chapter 15

Rafe hesitates approaching her, as if waiting for permission. Lia notices that while yesterday he seemed to want to hate her, today he seems different. He brings her two baskets and confirms Pauline sent him to bring them along, since she forgot.

Rafe apologizes for intruding, and Lia asks if he would like to stay before she knows what she is doing. She is both troubled and intrigued by him. Lia feels that they are locked in some sort of battle of wills, but she isn't sure what about. She remarks that his mood has improved today. At his rebuttal, she calls his behavior previously that of an ill-mannered boor, which makes him laugh. Rafe admits that Lia surprised him. They make a truce.

As they chat, Rafe pretends he is a from a small southern farming village (that has no name) when Lia asks. Lia toys with him, saying the same of herself, but a northern village, which seems to relax him a bit. She again notes his manner and bearing - and especially his eyes - are not the eyes of content farmer. Rafe laughs, saying they must come from opposite but similar worlds. He takes her hand, asking if she'd like to walk.

He asks what she did before coming to the inn, and Lia claims to have been a thief. Rafe asks about her parents, but Lia says they are dead and changes the subject. Lia asks if he'll be staying, and Rafe replies at least through the festival. Lia asks if he is devout then, to which he responds, "about some things."

Lia and Rafe walk up to a knoll overlooking the sea, and the winds seize Lia's hair as a storm breaks on the water. Rafe seems to be studying Lia as they stand among ruins of an ancient domed structure. Lia notes the ruins look like carcasses of a sea creature, and she sees sadness in them - reminders of a people humbled, brought low. Reminders that nothing lasts. Rafe disagrees, believe some things last - the things that matter. He asks if she disdains all traditions, to which she says most - that's why she came to Terravin. He reaches out to touch her kavah, implying it is traditional. Lia says it was a terrible mistake, incensed that the ink won't fade, and tries to turn awy. He jerks her back to him, staring at her. Lia senses he has something to say, but he just tells her to be careful where she steps. She waits, expecting further explanation or action, but none is offered. He angrily walks away, leaving her alone.
Dance of Thieves

Dance of Thieves

## Publisher's Summary

When the patriarch of the Ballenger empire dies, his son, Jase, becomes its new leader. Even nearby kingdoms bow to the strength of this outlaw family, who have always governed by their own rules. But a new era looms on the horizon, set in motion by a young queen, which makes her the target of the dynasty's resentment and anger.

At the same time, Kazi, a legendary former street thief, is sent by the queen to investigate transgressions against the new settlements. When Kazi arrives in the forbidding land of the Ballengers, she learns that there is more to Jase than she thought. As unexpected events spiral out of their control, bringing them intimately together, they continue to play a cat and mouse game of false moves and motives in order to fulfill their own secret missions.

## Characters

* Kazimyrah of Brightmist [1]
* Jase Ballenger [2]
* Wren
* Synové
* Queen Lia
* Mason
* Gunner
* Pryia
* Jalaine
* Lydia
* Nash
* Paxton
Kiss of Deception, Chapter 4

On the road with his Vendan comrades, The Assassin recounts receiving the order to kill the Princess of Morrighan from the Komizar, and how easy it will be - she's only a royal, after all.

The Komizar fears an alliance between Morrighan and Dalbreck could make his efforts futile. Rumors that the girl is said to be a Siarrah have reached him, and he believes it could embolden those who might stand against him. The Assassin feels he owes everything to the Komizar, and does not question the order - though it is the first time he's been asked to kill an innocent, and he feels each kill has stolen a part of his soul.

The Assassin parts from his companions, who continue on to sow havoc in Morrighan.

Back to: The Kiss of Deception
Morrighan

## Overview

Morrighan is a kingdom of plenty. Its inhabitants believe they are the Chosen of The Remnant - favored by the gods after The Devastation, led by the girl Morrighan through the destruction to a place of safety.

## Etymology

While the Kingdom of Morrighan is named for its first Queen, Morrighan, is it also believed to be derived from modern-day Oregon.

## Geography

Described as a land of endless hills (see Easter Eggs), many ancient ruins pepper the landscape.

* Golgata
* Morrighan Vineyards
* Civica
	+ Citadelle
		- Grand Hall
	+ Abbey
	+ Square
* Terravin
* Piadro

## Politics

### Government

* Timekeeper
* Lord Viceregent
* Chancellor
* Royal Scholar

### Foreign Relations

* History of tensions with Dalbreck, hoped to be alleviated through marriage with the Crown Prince

### Military

* Believes its military superior to all other nations.

## Economy

* Morrighan is famous for both the quality and price of its wine.

## Religion

* Considers themselves the Chosen Remnant that found favor in the sight of the Gods, who led Morrighan, their first Queen, to safety after The Devastation.
* Polytheistic, though the gods themselves are not named individual deities, but concepts.
* First Daughters are revered as potential Siarrahs -those with the sight.
* Extreme focus on history, albeit whitewashed.

## Culture

* Artisans - elaborate wedding kavahs are applied to noblewomen on their marriages.

* Wine - the Morrighan Vineyards are renowned for their quality, giving the country its symbol - the vine.
The Kiss of Deception

The Kiss of Deception

## Publisher's Summary

In a society steeped in tradition, Princess Lia's life follows a preordained course. As First Daughter, she is expected to have the revered gift of sight--but she doesn't--and she knows her parents are perpetrating a sham when they arrange her marriage to secure an alliance with a neighboring kingdom--to a prince she has never met.

On the morning of her wedding, Lia flees to a distant village. She settles into a new life, hopeful when two mysterious and handsome strangers arrive--and unaware that one is the jilted prince and the other an assassin sent to kill her. Deception abounds, and Lia finds herself on the brink of unlocking perilous secrets--even as she finds herself falling in love.

## Playlist

Mary E. Pearson's Kiss of Deception Playlist:

## Get With the Program

Mark Want to Read, big time.You can't have my first editions, but you can get your own!They're crazy well done.
## In Depth

### Narrators

* Lia

* The Assassin
* The Prince
* Kaden
* Rafe

### Locations

* Terravin

* Venda

* Dalbreck
* Morrighan
Plot Summary: Kiss of Deception, Chapter 18

Lia worries about how to tell Pauline of Mikael, and instead avoids talking. Kaden appears in the inn for dinner, but not Rafe. Lia is relieved to be spared his mercurial moods what with her present worries Still, she watches for him.

Kaden asks what has her troubled tonight, and Lia relates that she received bad news from her brother. Kaden realizes his error about Walther's identity. Kaden asks if he can do anything, and Lia is struck by his warmth, briefly wishing she could trust him with her troubles - but she returns to work, mindful of the appearance it might give.

Lia avoids Pauline after her shift, claiming she needs the fresh air of a walk, but Pauline follows and insists they talk.
Plot Summary: Kiss of Deception, Chapter 30

The Assassin senses his comrades from Venda have arrived. Catching their eyes, he leads them to an alley.

The men are angry the job isn't done yet. The Assassin claims he's getting information useful to the Komizar, and only needs another week. He tells them not to show their faces here again.

The men think perhaps The Assassin is enjoying himself a little too much. So what if he has? He threatens them, and they leave.

For now.

In a week, he will have to kill Lia. She was one of the enemy - and she didn't mean more to him than the Komizar or Venda.

But could he hang on to the next few days.
Kiss of Deception, Chapter 5

After leaving trail of false leads for those tracking them, Lia and Pauline reach Terravin ten days after they flee Civica.

On the way, Lia ditches her wedding dress and pries loose the jewels from her wedding cape, which the girls trade for coin. They swap their Morrighese Ravians for donkeys in order to attract less attention.

As they near Terravin's colorful village and bay, Lia begins to feel a sense of home and the weight of who she is lessens.

The girls arrive at the Inn owned by Pauline's "Aunt" Berdi, and tell her they're in trouble. Berdi leads them to her spare cottage where Lia comes clean about who she is and their situation, offering to move on if she's uncomfortable. Berdi offers them work and shelter, then leaves them to scrub the road off themselves.

Lia makes it clear to Pauline she is no longer to be treated like a princess, that part of her life is over. She leaves Pauline the bath and ventures out to the creek behind the cottage to wash, imagining it as a sort of baptism for her new life. She hears, "I will find you...In the farthest corner..." on a breeze, and assumes it to be holy remembrances wafting from the town as she tries to brush the kavah away.

Back to: The Kiss of Deception
Roger McTosh

*"The antics of the nearby United States Marines do not go unnoticed. We know more than you may think."*

-- Deputy Director Aaron Spyker speaking to an unidentified member of the Director's Unit

**Roger McTosh**, otherwise known by the nickname given to him by his compatriots, **Reaper**, was a member of the United States Marine Corps, and a spy for Cerberus Contracting. As the First Lieutenant residing over the Intelligence unit assigned to the Marine Corps' base in Libya, McTosh had access to the computer systems, and thus heaves of information, which he constantly fed to the nearby Cerberus vault.

Carrying with him an impatient and overall distasteful disposition, the local Marines credited him with a nasty reputation. This was due in part to his interrogation methods, which generally did not follow the guidelines laid out by the United Nations. Thus, his associates and brothers-in-arms nicknamed McTosh "Reaper."

Roger's disloyalty to the United States was discovered during an attempt to exfiltrate and return to Cerberus' Director's Unit. The escape failed, and the First Lieutenant was eventually executed by firing squad by his fellow soldiers.
Plot Summary: Kiss of Deception, Chapter 34

Lia runs into the soldier she dumped cider on, who has not forgotten her set down. Lia wishes she could use her identity to put him in his place, but cannot. Instead, she insults him and draws her knife before he strikes her.

She promises their paths will cross again, and their differences will be settled once and for all. And maybe he'll be kicked by a horse.

Lia sneaks into the library of the Sacrista to steal a Vendan book of phrases, to assist her in translating the two volumes she stole from the Scholar. A priest catches her, and knows who she is. They discuss her gift (or lack of), and he reveals he blessed her the day she was dedicated (christened). He wonders why she would need to know Vendan, and Lia tells him curiosity.

He tells her troops are on the move - highly unusual during the high holidays. The threat must be real. She asks why he isn't stopping her. He tells her the day she was dedicated, he swore before the gods to protect her, and he will honor that pledge. But urges her that not all the priests will feel that way. And she can borrow any books she likes.

Back at the festival, Lia finds Rafe, eager to be alone in an alcove. Lia worries someone might see them, but Rafe doesn't care. Lia drags him back to the festivities, promising to get lost in the shadows that night when the whole town can't see them. Rafe begins to tell her something, but stops. They rejoin the festival.

Kaden finds them, and he and Rafe continue to compete. Lia and Pauline stop at the knife throwing field, and Lia enters the contest. Before she throws, she feels eyes on her that mean her harm. Her distraction messes up her throw, and she focuses - hitting the board this time, but not the bulls-eye. She still feels him watching, and misses again. She tells her self to block out the distraction, and tries again - finding the inner ring. She can feel him mocking her throws, and tries one more time with her own knife, straight to the bulls-eye. the watcher leaves.

Lia decides more practice is in order - no more lucky throws.
Aster

video File:Placeholder

King of Morrighan (grandfather)

Queen Regheena (grandmother)

Walther (uncle, deceased)

Bryn (uncle)

Regan (uncle)

Aster is first daughter of Queen of Venda ( Lia ) and King of Dalbreck (Rafe). She was born in Dance of Thieves and appears in Vow of Thieves. She is named after Aster the saving angel and the little girl who befriended Queen lia in The Heart of Betrayal.

Write the first section of your page here.

## Section heading

Write the second section of your page here.
Plot Summary: Kiss of Deception, Chapter 13

Pauline and Lia
adjust to the differences between Terravin and Civica – in particular, Lia misses her brothers.

Pauline does Lia’s hair as she brings up Kaden and Rafe,
saying they were upset when Lia was relegated to the kitchen the night before. Lia scoffs.
Pauline presses, asking if Lia favored either one. Lia says they were both rude
and presumptuous. Pauline doesn’t buy it at all, telling Lia not to be afraid.
Lia realizes Pauline knows her too well, and admits they were both attractive –
but also filled her with apprehension. But maybe she favored one of them…or was
at least intrigued enough to have one haunt her dreams.

Berdi assigns the
girls to get Gwyneth and go pick berries at Devil's Canyon for the upcoming festival so that she
can make treats and wine.

Kaden approaches
and greets them, and confirms he is indeed a pelt-trader. Lia is disappointed that
her assessment of him was wrong. Kaden hopes for a real room, and Pauline
remarks that until the festival ends it wouldn’t be likely – but perhaps
another local inn might have vacancies. Kaden looks to Lia, who is distracted
by his eyes…and mouth. He notices, laughing at her, and decides he’ll take his
chances in the barn.

Lia asks if Rafe
will stay, too, but Kaden doubts Rafe’s nose would allow him to stay in the barn
for long. Lia imagines Kaden’s horse is a dragon as he rides away, noting how
odd it is the two of them are friends, given how different they are.

Pauline pushes
Lia on which one she favors, assuming from their interaction with Kaden that it
must be Rafe. Lia demurs.

The girls ride to
town to collect Gwyneth, Pauline explaining as they ride that the brightly
colored homes of the bay were the fisherwives’ way of guiding home their
husbands. It reminds Lia of a buried memory of her family at the sea, before
her father had become cold.

Lia notes the
lovely Sacrista, large for the size of the town. As they ride by, Lia hears a
voice saying “gone, gone…” and fears something has happened to Mikael – she worries
the Barbarians may have attacked, but rationalizes that they are no match for
Morrighan’s troops. Nevertheless, she suggests that Pauline stops to light a
candle, hoping it will guide Mikhail safely.

The girls make there way to Gwyneth's apartment above the local apothecary. They find Gwyneth with Simone, a girl of six or seven. A whiff of fried eel makes Pauline sick, and Lia realizes Pauline is pregnant. Pauline heads back to the inn, as Gwyneth and Lia head to the canyon.
Roland Hock

**Roland Hock**, (otherwise known as **The Suit**), is the biological son of **Rook.**

It wasn't until recently that Roland joined **Cerberus** as the **Director** to ensure the world never knew of **Rook's** death. Roland acts as **Aaron Spyker's** protege and is currently learning to fit the role his father took before him.

## Physical Description

Roland takes a lot of traits from his father. He stands at 6'2" and has a slimmer build than Rook. He shares the same blue eyes and dark brown hair, however Roland chooses to keep a stubble as facial hair to give himself a more mature appearance.

During his time as a Capo, Roland wore a black single breasted fitted suit, with a white dress shirt and red tie.

## History

### Before Cerberus

Roland worked for the Los Angeles Crime Family as a Capo in their ranks. He is forced to work for them due to his large gambling debt he had earned. Although he was angry because of his debt, he came to enjoy his work in the family and the dedication he showed not only earned him a lowered debt, but the trust of the Family.

His past before this is completely unknown.

#### Cerberus

Roland was extracted due to his father's last request by the Operators by Cerberus. At first refusing to go with them, in fear of being hunted by the Family, he later decided to join them after it was revealed that his debt was paid off by an unknown source and the Family, seemingly terrified, allowed him to leave.

He later contacted Aaron Spyker and informed him of his decision.

### CITPR Synth

It was later revealed by Rook that Roland is not infact his biological son, but his very first test of the CITPR Synth program. Roland was given false memories and personality with the objective of infiltrating Cerberus. However, this objective was completely unknown to Roland, as was his fate to being a synth. At this point in time, he remains inactive in the R&D Laboratory for study.

## Personality

Roland is the complete opposite of his father. Though his father was more on the diplomatic side and had a calm demeanor, Roland shows more emotion in his actions and prefers to rely on actions over words.

Roland is also extremely professional and dedicated to his work. Though he was granted the rank of Veteran when he joined, he still acknowledges that those in the Company are far more experienced and refuses to use his rank to order them around.
Rafe

Lia (current partner)

Rafe is the King of Dalbreck, betrothed to Princess Arabella (Lia) of Morrighan in 'The Kiss of Deception'. In Kiss of deception he is 19 years old.

After the events of 'The Beauty of Darkness' he married Princess Arabella of Morrighan, current Queen of Venda, and had one child with her - Princess Aster.

## Appearance

Rafe is described to have shoulder length dark hair, piercing blue eyes, and in Beauty of Darkness, gains peach fuzz. He is a head taller than Lia and noted to have an athletic build.

## Personality

Arrogante, como um príncipe, e chega a ser convencido. Sarcástico e com algumas ações imprudentes. Porém é protetor e sábio como um bom líder

## History

Born to the King and Queen of Dalbreck, at the age of eight Rafe was given to Sven as an apprentice, became a cadet at twelve, pledged at fourteen, and a solider by sixteen. Sven educated him on everything from military history, various combat skills with a wide range of weapons, riding, military strategy and tracking. Rafe was always given double of the dirtiest and lowest jobs to ensure fellow soldiers felt no favoritism to him due to his royal rank. Though a highly trained solider he was the least trained in the field due to being the only heir to the throne and was therefore brought into battle after it had already cooled and was surrounded by the strongest soldiers. As a pledge, Rafe befriended fellow pledges Orrin, Jeb, and Tavish who would later assist him and Sven in tracking and freeing Lia from Venda.

## The Kiss of Deception

In 'The Kiss of Deception', having been left at the alter by Lia, Rafe finds himself angry, amused, and curious about the mysterious princess who chose a simple life over their marriage. Rafe spends 3 weeks tracking Lia with tips from vagabonds, merchants, and eventually Enzo the stable boy. He tracks her to Berdi's inn Terravin where he encounters Kaden who asks to join him for a drink. During his first introduction to Lia, he is initially cold and scrutinizing of her. Rafe's steady rivalry with Kaden begins here with both vying for her attentions and preference. Both men as well as Lia were unaware of the others motives or real identities.

While in Terravin, Rafe and Lia begin spending time together, both planned and by chance and steadily grow closer. With both of their feelings and attraction to each other growing, they share their first kiss and continue their flirtatious relationship.

## Relationships

### Family:

King of Dalbreck (†) —Father

Queen of Dalbreck (†) —Mother

Princess of Dalbreck and Venda- daughter

### Friendships:

Sven

Orrin

Tavish

Jeb (†)

Kaden

## Quotes

"In the farthest corner, I will find you."

"Some things last... The things that matter"

“It was worth it Lia... Every mile, everyday. I’d do it all over again. I’d chase you across three continents if that’s what it took to be with you.”

"I'm afraid you'll taint mine."
Cerberus Memes

This page is dedicated to the many jokes and memes created by the members of Cerberus during it's two years of activity.

* Pale's 2Legit2Quit Guns
* "Cerberus Technology"
* Seal the Vault
* "Melina's After School Activities"
* "Getting Gideon'd"
* "Going to Space"
* Libya
* That Day Between July 3rd and July 5th
* Contract Termination
* Pulling an Abraxas
* Cerberus Daycare
* SNAP
* The Skull of Rook Bowman Sneezes
* Self Lubricating Canes
* Colonel Coleman
* Sergeant Evans
* Combat Arms-Cerberus Connection.
* Director Caneman
* David. Fucking. Doe.
* Godd Howard
Plot Summary: Kiss of Deception, Chapter 22

Lia and Gwyneth try to scrub Lia's kavah off in the river to no effect. Gwyneth believes it wasn't just a kavah - prompting Lia to remember the strange prayer her mother said, and the stinging heat she felt when it was applied.

Gwyneth asks if Lia can live with what remains - the royal symbols are gone, only the claw and vine remain. But Lia sees the remainder as a symbol of her former life's hold on her, and wants it gone.

Gwyneth asks if Lia will ever go back. Lia dips under the water and lets the question fade away with the current.
Kiss of Deception, Chapter 2

LIa heads South to Terravin

Lia and Pauline head North while the stable boy watches in order to make the Court believe that is their direction, then double back South under cover of the forest and continue to ride as fast as they can.[1]

As they break to make camp, Lia recalls the farewell dinner in her honor the night before, when her decision to flee solidified:

“When toasts and laughter were flying through the room, and I was suffocating under the weight of the revelry and the satisfied smiles of the cabinet, my eyes met Pauline’s. She was standing in waiting against the far wall with the other attendants. When I shook my head, she knew. I couldn’t do it. She nodded in return.”

As Lia and Pauline rest, they discuss bears and Barbarians (Vendans). Lia thinks about the differences in the freedoms her brothers were allowed that she was not, as well as the military threat the Vendans pose.

Lia discusses the likelihood a bounty will be placed on the two of them with Pauline, who insists Lia made the right choice. They talk of Pauline's suitor Mikael and Terravin, their destination. Pauline says her holy Remembrances before they go to sleep, which Lia tries to respect but does not feel compelled to join in herself. The Remembrances tell the story of the original First Daughter, Morrighan, who led The Remnant out of The Devastation into the land that would become the kingdom of Morrighan. Lia is struck by the beauty of Pauline's words, and wishes to be part of the magic of the universe.

The story makes Lia recall nights as a child when she snuck to the roof to listen to the stars, which she thought were talking to her.

Unable to sleep, Lia takes comfort in the fact that somewhere, the Prince of Dalbreck probably can't sleep either.

## Quotes

*“I wondered what it would be like to have someone who knew me so well, someone who would look right into my soul, someone whose very touch sent all other thoughts from my mind. I tried to imagine someone who hungered for the same things I did and wanted to spend the rest of his life with me, and not because it fulfilled a loveless agreement on paper.”*

*“There’s nothing to know, sweet child. It’s only the chill of the night. My mother would gather me in her arms and lead me back to bed. Later, when my nighttime wanderings didn’t stop, she had a lock added to the rooftop door just out of my reach.”*

*“My only consolation as I looked up at the blinking stars was that the prince of Dalbreck was probably still awake too, furiously jostling home on a rutted road, his old bones aching with pain in a cold, uncomfortable carriage—with no young bride to warm him.”*
Vow of Thieves

☀***Vow of Thieves* is the thrilling sequel to *Dance of Thieves*, set in the same world as Mary E. Pearson's *New York Times-*bestselling Remnant Chronicles.**

Kazi and Jase have survived, stronger and more in love than ever. Their new life now lies before them―the Ballengers will be outlaws no longer, Tor's Watch will be a kingdom, and Kazi and Jase will meet all challenges side by side, together at last.

But an ominous warning mars their journey back, and they soon find themselves captured in a tangled web of deceit woven by their greatest enemies and unlikeliest allies, a place where betrayals run deeper and more deadly than either had thought possible, and where timeless ambitions threaten to destroy them both..............

## Characters

* Kazi Brightmist
* Jase Ballenger
* Synovè
* Wren
* Paxton Ballenger
Plot Summary: Kiss of Deception, Chapter 32

The girls discuss Lia's kiss, which she insists was a first for her - the first that mattered, if not the actual first.

Pauline apologizes, saying that the whole inn could hear her screaming, and she never imagined she would interrupt a kiss.

Lia keeps reliving the kiss, saying how romantic a farmer is compared to a stuffy prince. Lia wants to ask Pauline how she knew she was in love, but stops. Pauline guesses the question, and tells Lia about Mikael. Lia wonders whether it was all a farce - it didn't matter now. Pauline's love was true either way.

Lia remembers Walther saying he knew he loved Greta right away. She certainly didn't know right away with Rafe - their meeting was contentious. But perhaps there were many ways to fall in love.
Kevah

A kevah is a Morrighese ceremonial tradition, in which the royal bride has the crest of her intended's kingdom etched into her back in shallow cuts to represent her new allegiance.

"The ugly crest of the Kingdom of Dalbreck had been made startlingly beautiful, the snarling lion tamed on my back, the intricate designs gracefully hemming in his claws, the swirling vines of Morrighan weaving in and out with nimble elegance, spilling in a V down my back until the last delicate tendrils clung and swirled in the gentle hollow of my lower spine. The lion was honored and yet cleverly subdued." (Chapter 1)

Kevahs typically fade, yet Lia's does not - a portion remains on Lia's shoulder, depicting a claw and vine.

Chapter 1 would suggest that Rhegeena is responsible for this, rather than the kevah artisans (as Lia initially believes): "My mother laid her hand on me again, her palm resting on my shoulder. My skin stung at her touch."

For the people of Venda and the Tribes of Gaudrel, Lia's kevah marks her as a champion who will defeat evil.
Remnant Chronicles Wiki

**Welcome to the Remnant Chronicles Wiki!**

We're a collaborative community website that anyone, including you, can build and expand. Wikis like this one depend on readers getting involved and adding content. Click the "ADD NEW PAGE" or "EDIT" button at the top of any page to get started!

## A Note About Spoilers

Please DO NOT read the main character pages or Chapter Summaries if you have not read The Kiss of Deception (Book 1), as it will give away the identities of The Prince and The Assassin.

## The Trilogy

The Kiss of DeceptionThe Heart of BetrayalThe Beauty of Darkness
Plot Summary: Kiss of Deception, Chapter 11

## Plot Summary: Kiss of Deception, Chapter 11

### Location

The Barn, Terravin

The Assassin is
upset by missing his chance to kill Lia that night, and he feels irritation
with his new roommate’s fascination with Lia. He regrets befriending him.

He concedes that
after life on the road, the thin mattress in the barn and decent fare is
preferable. Lia’s words play over in his head as he weighs how different she
was from his expectations. His experience with royals tended toward people of
greed and cowardice, a far cry from Lia standing up to the soldier, defending
her friend. He had noticed her fear, but was impressed it did not hold her
back. She was still haughty and arrogant – he would remember that when the time
came.

But why not enjoy
the next few weeks before his companions came back? He could stay and enjoy
company and comforts, and take care of the job later. The Komizar was counting
on him. He had taken many lives, but this time he had a name. Lia – like a
whisper on the wind.
Dalbreck

## Overview

Depending on which Kingdom tells the story, Dalbreck either sprung from Morrighan several centuries later, or was comprised of a Southern-bound splinter of The Remnant that headed South rather than West, and later came together under Breck, an exiled Prince of Morrighan.

## Etymology

While "Breck" comes from the Prince who became the Kingdom's founder, "Dal" likely comes from modern Dallas.
Plot Summary: Kiss of Deception, Chapter 33

Lia and Pauline dress up for the Festival of Deliverance, and Rafe and Kaden are struck when Lia enters the inn.

Pauline tries to reveal to Berdi and Gwyneth that she is pregnant, but they already know. They all pledge to help her.

Gwyneth stops Lia to warn her that a Vendan assassin has been sent after her to kill her to prevent the alliance with Dalbreck from happening. Lia does not believe Venda would go to the trouble, since doesn't have the gift. Gwyneth tells her people are now convinced she does have the gift, because she'd been able to evade the King this long. Lia learns Gwyneth used to be a spy.
Kiss of Deception, Chapter 3

The King of Dalbreck has taken Lia's flight as a grave insult and has deployed extra soldiers to border garrisons, intent on a show of force to Morrighan.

The Prince prepares to go after Lia, having been jilted. Sven, his friend and mentor, tries to talk him out of it to no avail. The Prince insists it's about curiosity, not anger, but Sven isn't fooled.

With his extensive military training and tracking skills, the Prince believes he can find Lia quickly. He asks Sven to tell the King and Queen he is sulking at the summer lodge.

The Prince reveals that "Princess Arabella" sent a note, asking to "inspect him" before the wedding - and now, she will.

## Quotes

*“Sven taught me well. I was given to him as apprentice at eight, became a cadet at twelve, pledged at fourteen, and was a fully appointed soldier by sixteen. I had spent more years under Sven’s tutelage than I had with my own parents. I was an accomplished soldier, due in no small part to him, excelling in all my training, which only made it all the more biting. I was probably the most untried soldier in history.”*

*“I wasn’t angry because she’d thought of bolting before I did. I’d thought of it long ago, when the marriage was first proposed by my father, but he had convinced me the union was for the good of Dalbreck and everyone would look the other way if I chose to take a mistress after the marriage. I was angry because she’d had the courage to do what I hadn’t."*

"*Who was this girl who thumbed her nose at two kingdoms and did as she pleased? I wanted to know.”*

Back to: The Kiss of Deception
Plot Summary: Kiss of Deception, Chapter 19

Rafe heads to a tavern in Terravin, trying to avoid Lia and her antics, telling himself it's easier to stay away from her.

Their encounter in Devil's Canyon unnerved him - she had seemed so normal, and he felt himself being led down a dangerous path. On the cliff, he had wanted her - then the moment she called her kavah a terrible mistake, reality clicked into place. She was not a normal girl picking berries, he had been deluding himself.

Later, he followed Kaden in the forest, and witnessed Lia's reunion with Walther. He realizes he has been entertaining a fantasy.

Rafe drinks and broods, finally heading back to the inn. As he heads for the loft, he runs into a very upset Lia. She looks afraid, which surprises Rafe - he thought nothing scared her. He watches her - even she cries, she is beautiful. He wants to comfort her, but then remembers she can't be trusted. After all, wasn't she flirting with him earlier, only to go meet her lover afterward?

Pauline appears, demanding to talk to Lia. Rafe remains hidden.