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Five years ago, Chihiro had to leave his childhood friend, Inaho, because his parents were moving to a bigger city to earn a steady living. Now Chihiro is set to return to the countryside to visit his grandparents. With this comes old memories, promises unfulfilled, and regrets. For Chihiro's dad, Hirotomo, regrets are all he has left -- it was because of his ambitions that the family packed up and left the countryside. While at his grandparents' house, Chihiro remembers his promise to Inaho that, "No matter how long it takes, we will meet again."
**The War Within Is Always Hardest Won,** Lucien de Montregnier knew, for he daily battled demons from his past. Still, his fighting prowess had won him an unexpected boon: Lady Alayna of Avenford, a hellcat with a heart who alone could save him from his greatest enemy—himself! Widowed before she was truly a wife, Alayna of Avenford now found herself claimed as a war prize by Lucien de Montregnier, a warrior as well known for his fierce nature as he was for his skill in battle. She despised him, of course. But why, then, did his merest glance ignite her very soul?
