Born of War

By Danielle Broussard

Trained from a young age to master her powers and serve her lord, Sulane never questioned the war she was participating in. Carrying out her lord’s orders precisely and efficiently, her only goal was take down as many of the enemy as possible, until she met him.

Born into royalty, Raedric fought in his father’s army. His goal, to eliminate the human race and avenge his mother’s death. Slaughtering the humans was easy, until he met her.

Meeting in battle once more, Sulane is defeated and loses her memory. While living in a small village, she meets an orphaned yokai child. Taking the child as her own, they are able to live peacefully until Raedric finds them. Attacking the woman on sight, he is shocked to learn that Sulane doesn’t remember him. Seeing a different side of the woman he’s gained respect for, Raedric is determined not only to bring her home with him, but have her for his own.

But with traitors lurking in the shadows, things are not always as they seem. Between assassination attempts, unwanted fiancées, and meddlesome councils, will he ever be able to get the woman he desires? Not to mention, Sulane needs to get her memories back before she can agree to any of this.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Danielle Broussard
• Release date: Apr 22, 2021
• ISBN: 9781370304479

Danielle Broussard

Danielle Broussard was born in Houma, Louisiana to a loving and supporting family. After moving to Texas for a short stent, she moved back to Louisiana when she was still young and has spent most of her life there.Sports and art defined most of her childhood. She played basketball for several years and also ran cross-country and track. A self-proclaimed jock, she hated reading and avoided it at all costs and spent most of her time either outside playing sports or watching anime.For college she attended the University of Louisiana at Lafayette and graduated with a Bachelors of Science in Architectural Studies.

Book preview

Born of War

Danielle Broussard

Published by Danielle Broussard

Copyright 2021 Danielle Broussard

Other books

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Seven Heavens: Book 2 Fall Series

Seven Hells: Book 3 Fall Series

The Watchers: Book 4 Fall Series

The Hagoromo

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Table of Contents

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

1

It was cold. No, that's not right, it was beyond cold. It was the type of cold that penetrated the skin, causing bones to ache. Letting out a deep breath, a puff of white air obscured her sight, but only for a moment. There wasn't much to see anyway. The landscape was barren. A blanket of white coated everything, glistening in the quickly setting sun.

Shivering, the wind cut straight through Sulane’s clothes. At least she still had the energy to shiver, that was a good sign. Her toes hurt too, another good sign. They had gone numb a while back. Her fur lined boots could only do so much to keep the wet and cold out. Taking another step in the ankle-deep powder, she desperately wanted to stop to make camp, but it wasn't her call. Letting out another puff of air, the soft grunts of her comrades and the crunching of snow forced her onward.

My lord.

The weak voice caused the company to pause. Turning, Sulane eyed the idiotic soldier who dared approach their lord. No one questioned Lord Fulton, at least, no one who wanted to live. Rubbing her red nose, she watched the soldier struggle to take a knee before the lord's horse. The white crust that had formed on his clothes cracked and fell off as he forced the stiff fabric beneath to bend. Cocking her head slightly, maybe the soldier wasn't as dumb as he looked. Death would be a reprieve from this hell. That damn bastard. He wasn't an idiot; he was a genius. Eyes narrowing, she glared at the soldier.

Adjusting the heavy pelt wrapped around his form, Lord Fulton looked down at the soldier. His hand brushed over the hilt of his sword lovingly as he shifted on his perch. There were only two horses left with their company. The lord and his son were privy to both animals. Heaven forbid if they actually had to walk like the peons under their rule. Lord Fulton wasn't that bad really. At least, not for a war-mongering dictator. He tended to kill first and ask questions later, which never really worked out, but none of his generals had the balls to say anything against their leader.

Glancing to the lord's side, she eyed his son, Fredrick, with disdain. The bastard didn't fall far from the proverbial tree. Wrapping the furs tighter around his shoulders, the young lord looked absolutely miserable. He wasn't made for travel, at least, not this kind of travel. He should have been left at the keep, but Lord Fulton had insisted that his son be present for their glorious victory over the savage beasts.

Clearing his throat again, the soldier took the lord's silence as his cue to continue, My lord, perhaps we should make camp for the night. The sun is nearly set and the temperature is dropping rapidly now.

Grunting, Lord Fulton ran his hand over the hilt of his sword again. Focusing on the slight movement, she gritted her teeth. She hated that soldier. Death would be a welcome reprieve and it should be her getting it, not that simpleton. Damn him.

Gripping the hilt firmly, the lord said, Very well.

The entire company let out a collective breath while the soldier struggled to get back to his feet. Frowning slightly, she mentally took back her previous observation. The soldier was not a genius; he was an idiot. Turning from the scene, she trudged as fast as she could to a secluded corner of what would now be their camp. While a group of soldiers set up the lord's personal tent and then another for his son, she was desperately trying to keep busy and away from everyone. He would call on her later, she was sure of it, and she wanted to get at least a few minutes of rest.

Spreading out the last of her furs onto a raised cot, she paused when a noise by the door caught her attention. Turning slowly, she placed a steady hand on her swords and waited.

My lady?

Mentally growling, she said, Yes.

Pushing the heavy flap aside, a young soldier cautiously stepped into her tent. His body instantly relaxed due to the slight increase in temperature. Bowing stiffly, he said, Lord Fulton requests your presence, immediately.

Gritting her teeth, she was careful to keep her face completely passive. Barely nodding at the soldier, she said, Thank you.

Bowing again, the soldier scurried out of the tent. Glancing back at her cot sadly, she braced herself for the cold waiting outside. Maybe this time she would get lucky. Maybe he would kill her this time instead. Although that was probably just wishful thinking.

Stepping out of her tent, she was impressed by how quickly the soldiers erected the camp. All of the tents were up and several fires were burning, warming the area. Moving slowly through the camp, she came to the lord's tent too quickly. Taking a deep breath, she steeled herself for the upcoming encounter. Keeping her voice as even as possible, she prayed that maybe he was occupied, and said, My lord.

Unfortunately, not a second later, came her response, Enter.

Straightening her back, she stepped into the large tent. The air was pleasantly warm thanks to a small fire burning in the center of the structure. Lord Fulton had already disposed of his armor and was dressed casually in a loose fitting robe and matching pants. Waving Sulane into the tent, he quickly turned back to the messenger he was previously speaking to. In the lord's hands was a small metal object with what appeared to be a hook on the end. She couldn't see it clearly but Lord Fulton seemed fascinated by the item. Handing it back to the messenger, he whispered, Have them put several of these together and then redo the testing.

Shooing the messenger from the tent, he took a seat at a large table, and said, Come, sit and eat with me.

Nodding in acceptance, she strode confidently to the table and took a seat across from her lord. Raising his glass to her, she returned the motion and took a sip. His eyes never left her as she took small bites of her meal, sampling everything on the plate. The corners of her lips tilted down ever so slightly. The gods must truly hate her. The food, yet again, was free of poison. She could only have hoped to be so lucky, but to no avail. Damn.

Shoveling pieces of meat into his mouth, Lord Fulton pointed to the map sitting in the middle of the table. We will march to the top of that hill at first light and wait for those savages there. Those dogs won't know what hit them!

Staring at the map carefully, her eyes scanned the depicted terrain around the bits of meat that had flown out of the lord's mouth and onto the parchment. Nodding her head in acceptance, there was nothing else to do. He wasn't looking for her opinion.

The location was far from ideal. The land was relatively flat and wedged between a mountain on one side and a steep, forested drop on the other. The only options for movement were to go forward or back. Knowing her lord, retreat would not be an option.

The flap of the tent was pushed open violently, distracting the occupants inside. Fredrick barreled into the tent, shaking the snow off his form angrily. Grumbling under his breath, he cursed the white powder. Discarding the fur covering his shoulders, he finally acknowledged the two people occupying the room. Nodding to the lord, he said, Father. Then striding over to Sulane, he took a seat next to her, and leaning over, kissed her cheek. My lady, he said leering at the woman.

Frowning, Lord Fulton said, Stop that, Fredrick. You know she must remain pure or we just might lose this war.

Stuffing food into his mouth, Fredrick barely glanced at his father. Yes, I'm well aware, but it's only appropriate for me to greet my fiancée as such. Leering at the woman again with a mouth full of food, he said, I would hate for her to think that I'm neglecting her.

Sulane’s eyes remained hard and never left the map laying on the table. Her face was completely blank of emotion and she gave no inclination that she even registered the conversation going on around her. Keeping her hands in her lap, her fists clenched tightly, leaving small indentations in the palm of her hands. Keeping her breathing steady, she listened to the fools talk.

Pointing to the map, Fredrick said, Where will my future bride and I be positioned? I would like a good view of the battle. I can't wait to see those dogs finally die.

Glancing up from the map, Sulane watched the lord and his son carefully. Slurping down half of his drink, Lord Fulton said, I was thinking of putting her by the other Holy Ones. They are in charge of the defenses and will need to be unified to be effective.

Fighting the urge to roll her eyes, Sulane’s hand clenched even tighter. The pain was enough to distract her from saying something she might regret. Groaning, Fredrick rested his elbows on the table, I won't be able to see anything back there, even on that stinking horse. Stuffing more food into his mouth, he said, What I really want is to see when that stuck-up, snobby, general's son gets his head chopped off. Grinning madly, bits of food seeped out of the man's mouth.

Glaring at the lord, Sulane’s cold voice startled the men. I will be the one to kill the general's son.

Staring at the woman, Lord Fulton took another long sip of his drink. Her face remained passive but her eyes held a hard gleam in them. The woman frankly scared him. She wasn't a normal, docile woman. She was a killer. She was his best soldier, the deadliest by far. Her slight frame and beautiful face were beyond deceiving, which made her all the more lethal.

Scoffing, Fredrick said, You can't be serious. I will not have my fiancée getting killed, not even for that-

Waving a hand, Lord Fulton cut off his son's tirade. Staring at the woman, he said, Why do you ask for this?

Not a muscle in her face twitched, when she said, I will be the only one to kill him. We have unfinished business from the last battle. Besides, you asked me to pick out a wedding present.

Licking his teeth, the lord said, You want me to put you on the front lines of a battle for your wedding present?

Nodding, Sulane didn't make a sound. Slouching in his chair, Fredrick tossed his fork onto the middle of the table, causing a large stain to mar the map. You cannot be serious, father! We might as well tie her up and just hand her over to those savages!

Ignoring the lord's son, Sulane persisted, I have fought on the front lines for you before, my lord, and have helped secure you several victories.

Shooting to his feet, Fredrick’s chair hit the floor. Enough! I will not hear of this father! She is my fiancée and I would like to keep her in one piece and unmarred for our wedding day!

Glancing at Fredrick, Sulane quickly brought her piercing eyes back to her lord. I will remain near the forest on the outskirts of the battle where retreat will be easy. Besides, keeping all of the Holy Ones together in one area is not tactically sound. If the enemy manages to break through the lines, then they would be able to take out all of your defenses at once.

Shooting to his feet, Lord Fulton glared down at the impertinent woman. Gripping the hilt of his sword, his hand twitched, begging to draw the blade. The woman didn't flinch however. Did she truly not fear his wrath? He had killed others for less, but this woman didn't even blink. Sneering at the girl, the lord slowly retook his seat. Tapping the table, he said, So, it's personal.

Barely nodding again, Sulane didn't feel the need to elaborate. The last battle had ended in a draw and the whole reason was due to one man. He was the first real challenge she had throughout the entire war and was the only one to walk away from her blade. That was not acceptable. Neither was the thought of anyone else taking his head. He was hers and hers alone. No one else was allowed to kill him.

Nodding, the lord said, Very well.

Picking up his plate, Fredrick threw it at the fire in the middle of the tent, causing sparks and flames to fly in all directions. No! I will not allow it!

Pouring himself another drink, Lord Fulton said, Sit down and stop making a fool out of yourself. Growling, Fredrick stormed out of the tent. Taking a sip of his drink, the lord stared at the woman. Her pale, violet eyes and light blond hair were clear indicators of the power she held inside. All of the Holy Ones had the same coloring. Not all had the power or the beauty this woman held however. That was why he chose her for his son. She had come into his service at a young age and her skills were cultivated to his specifications. The results were more than anything he could have imagined. She was one of his most skilled fighters and her spiritual powers were immense, making her the perfect weapon.

His son wasn't pleased with the aspect of marrying a holy woman, but quickly changed his tune once he saw the girl. She could compete with any of the nobles' daughters. The only flaw she had was her personality, or lack thereof. A minor setback due to her training. It left her hard and cold. She was a silent presence, although that could be a good thing. At least she wasn't looking for constant conversation like most of the court ladies. If only he was younger he would have taken her for himself, but it was better this way. His grandchildren would be powerful beings and easy to mold.

Sighing, he placed his drink back on the table. I will allow you this favor, not for a wedding present, but because I know you can handle it. Don't disappoint me.

Nodding, Sulane stood and bowed before leaving the tent. The sky was dark and the snow had picked up. Shivering, she refused to show her discomfort to the remaining soldiers walking around. Passing the young lord's tent, she paused for a moment. Grunts and soft moans floated out of the thick, fabric door and into the still night. She should kill him for his treachery. He was her future husband after all, even if it was arranged and against her will. Keeping her face placid, she took a deep breath and moved on. It wasn't worth the effort. Let him have his fun with the servant girls, it kept him away from her, which was preferable.

My lady. Pausing again, she glanced at the soldier running up to her side. Bowing to her, he said, The general wishes to see you.

It's late, she quipped.

The soldier shuddered at her monotone answer. Swallowing, he said, I know, but he insisted, my lady.

Turning, she silently changed her course and headed for the general's tent. It was significantly smaller than the lord's and his son's, but they didn't deem the head of their military as important as themselves. A lone soldier stood outside the front of the tent, and bowing to the woman approaching, he opened the flap for her, allowing her to enter the small tent without breaking stride. Feeling the cold air enter the shelter, the general stood in time to see his future lady enter the small space.

Bowing to her, he said, My lady.

You wished to see me, General Dorn.

It was a statement. She never asked questions, at least, it never sounded like she did. Smiling at the beautiful woman, he said, Yes, my lady. I thought you would like to see the strategy I came up with for tomorrow's battle.

Nodding, she walked around a large map lying in the middle of the floor and took a seat on the general's cot. Taking a seat next to her, Dorn pointed to several blocks placed on the parchment. There's really not much of a choice here, so I will line up the troops here and here, and place the archers back here. Including you, there are five Holy Ones. I will have one of you placed in each division to even out our defenses.

Nodding, she said, I will be with the group near the drop-off.

Glancing at the woman, the general said, I'd prefer you in the center.

Shaking her head, she said, Not possible. The young lord doesn't want me fighting at all and would prefer to watch from a safe distance like this is some sort of sporting event. The lord will allow me on the front lines only if I'm near the forest to provide for an easy escape.

Snorting, the general shook his head, Yes, because you retreat so often.

She didn't appreciate his sarcasm, but had to agree. Retreat wasn't an option. She would sooner die with glory on the field of battle before running to hide like a coward. Like her fiancée. Running a hand over his beard, the general said, Fine, we'll place you over here. It will throw the enemy off. I'm sure they'll expect you in the middle of the fight as well.

She nodded. They would be able to use that to their benefit. They will be able to find me quickly no matter what.

Grinning, Dorn said, Not if you hide your aura.

I will not hide, she spat.

I'm not saying hide, my lady, but if you conceal your aura to match the other Holy Ones', then the enemy will not know where you are positioned. It will allow you to move more quickly through their lines until they find you.

Thinking over his suggestion, it did have merit. She did like the idea of taking the enemy by surprise. They knew to look out for her by now and normally sought her out first. Nodding, she said, Fine, but I want the general's son.

He knew of the rivalry between the two and was not surprised by the request. Nodding, he said, Once his location is found, I'll send a messenger to inform you.

Very well, she conceded.

Looking over the map one more time, the general said, This is going to be a hard battle.

It is not in ideal conditions, she agreed, but not impossible.

Letting out a short laugh, Dorn said, Of course not. But I would have preferred to stop a day ago, where the mountain range stopped before dipping into this field.

Thinking of the location, Sulane said, That would have been ideal. Pausing, she looked over the map one more time, If the battle goes awry, pull the men back to that point.

We will be sitting ducks while retreating, it's not an option.

If it comes to that, she said, I will run interference.

Shaking his head, the general said, I can't allow that, my lady. You are our future leader; I will not risk it!

She was tempted to smile, but didn't. Emotions were a weakness and showing them would only lead to destruction. Standing from the cot, the general quickly followed her lead. Moving towards the entrance, she said, At that point you won't have a choice, general. Pray it doesn't come to that.

Opening the flap, she paused when Dorn said, Lady Sulane, in case I do not see you tomorrow, gods' strength.

Inclining her head, she said, Gods' strength, general.

The temperature had dropped even more. Spring had already come to the valley below, but up in the mountains the winter was determined to hold on as long as possible. Trudging through the fresh powder, the snow was deceptively inviting. Her feet were quickly freezing again and her bones ached when a frigid wind whipped between the tents. The fires were now deserted. The soldiers had all ducked into their respective shelters for the night. This was the time she loved the most. The quiet and the still air were comforting.

Making it to her tent, the inside was not nearly as warm as she would have liked. It would have to do though. Her tent was too small to light a fire and all of the wood was outside buried beneath a fresh coat of powder. Removing her boots, she placed them at the foot of the cot, then removing her swords, leaned them against the wall within arm’s length. Climbing under the furs, it took only a few minutes for her blood to warm, bringing life back into her limbs. Sighing, she let her face relax. Now alone, she no longer needed to keep up the strong facade that the rest of the world expected of her. Snuggling into the furs, she closed her eyes, thinking of nothing but the battle to come.

2

Striding down the long corridor, the young man was itching to get to his destination. The next battle was only a few hours away and he was practically bouncing in anticipation. Hopefully this would be the last battle. They would defeat the humans' army and leader, and then move to strategically eradicate the entire race. They were pests, a disease on the land that needed to be cured. Also, she would be there. That woman. The bane of his existence. The reason he now got out of bed in the morning. The woman who not only fought him, but lived to tell about it. It was unacceptable. It was unheard of. It was a shame she was human.

Running a hand through his long hair, he turned a corner and stopped. Swaying towards him was the last thing he wanted to see. Her long, black hair fell down her back in loose curls and her blue eyes shown with lust the second she saw him. Smiling coyly, the woman walked straight up to him, leaning into his tall, muscular frame. Running a hand down his armored chest, she looked up to his passive face, My prince, what a surprise running into you here. May I accompany you?

Glaring at the female, he said, No.

Trying to shrug her off, she merely spun on her heel and latched onto his arm. Groaning internally, he didn't have time for her nonsense. He had a meeting to attend, and the pest was in his way. His ears twitched when her nasally voice filled the empty corridor. How was your day, my prince? I had the most awful day. A servant had the audacity to bring me tea this afternoon. Can you believe it. Tea, like I was some commoner. Then she tried to make me believe that because there was honey in it that it was alright for me to drink. Of course I would never, and promptly threw the twit out of the palace.

Glancing up at the prince, his eyes remained forward. He didn't even appear to have heard a word she said. Tightening her hold on his arm, she rubbed her check against his bicep. You look so handsome, my prince. Is that new armor you're wearing? My father just got me this dress, do you like it? I just love it. The fabric is imported and very expensive. He had it custom made for me just because I'm such a wonderful daughter. Pausing, she glanced up at his face, but again, he only continued to look forward. Frowning, she whined, Raedric, why are you so cold to me?

Growling at the woman, he bared his fangs at her. Do not address me so familiarly.

Sensing the underlying threat, the woman quickly released the prince and bowed submissively, baring her throat to him. Forgive me, my prince. I only thought since we are to be mated-

Do not presume so much, he said cutting her off. Flexing his claws, he glared down at the female. You may be my intended, but you will never be my equal. Remember that Justela, because next time, I'll rip out your tongue.

Crouching lower to the ground, the woman whined in submission. Yes, my prince. Forgive me.

Growling low in his throat, Raedric continued down the hall, leaving the woman cowering on the floor. What was his father thinking pairing him with such a weak female? She was undeniably beautiful, but she was a whiny pest. Her father and brother pampered her, catering to her every need. That would stop as soon as they were mated. He would do his duty and sire an heir off of her, but nothing more. The palace was large enough. He'll assign her a room on the other side of the building and be done with her after that. With any luck his future heir would take after him and not his mother.

Finally reaching the meeting room, he took a deep breath and slid the door open. Inside, the generals were already gathered, as well as his father and a few other minor officers. Glancing up at his son, the imposing man at the other side of the room waved him in. Closing the door behind him, Raedric moved to take his position next to his sire, bowing when he reached his father's side. Nodding to his son, the man asked, Where does the latest report have the enemy stationed?

Pointing to the map laid over the large table, one of the generals said, This is where our spies say that the humans have made camp.

Glaring at the red marker laid on top of the map, Raedric mentally scoffed at it. Humming, his sire said, That was foolish. They should have stopped closer to the mountains, but no matter. Their poor planning will mean an easier victory for us.

Raedric couldn't agree more with his sire. It was beyond foolish. The only real question was where would she be? That's where he wanted to be positioned. She was his prey and no one else had the right to take her life. Focusing back on the conversation, he heard his father say, What do you suggest?

Clearing his throat, the general said, There is no need for a complicated strategy. We are physically stronger and faster than the humans. They have left themselves vulnerable so I suggest a forward attack. Line our forces up against theirs and wait. Their lord is notoriously impatient. We will let them attack first. It will be hard for them to run through the snow and will wear them out even more, making our victory even more assured. And if they don’t take the bait we can draw them into battle with a volley.

Rubbing his chin thoughtfully, their leader peered down at the map, his eyes narrowing. How many witches did they bring?

Only five, my king.

Glancing up at the commander that spoke, Raedric couldn't believe it. Had they really made it so easy? Is she there?

Everyone in the room knew who their king was referring to. She was a devil woman. A witch with so much power, she was an army onto herself. They had lost entire squadrons to her. It was hard to believe that she was even human. She fought more like them, like a yokai. She was obviously human in appearance. Her ears were rounded, flat teeth, dull nails, all undeniably human. Despite those features, her beauty rivaled any female yokai. Her pale, violet eyes and blond hair were stunning and complimented her lithe figure perfectly. She was a strong female, a warrior any yokai male would be proud to call their own, except, she was human. Not only human, but a witch. Their exact opposite. Their mortal enemy.

Nodding, the commander said, Yes, my spies say that she was spotted.

Crossing his arms, the king said, I want her position located as quickly as possible. We will concentrate our forces around her and immobilize her early on.

I will kill her. The stoic voice attracted everyone's attention. The prince was still staring intently at the map laid on the table, but it was obviously him that spoke.

Shaking his head, the king said, No, I will not risk you, my son.

Growling, Raedric said, She will be looking for me anyway, father. We have unsettled business.

Glaring at his son, the king said, I do not care about your perfect record being tarnished Raedric. The witch will be taken down accordingly with no heroics.

Growling louder, Raedric gripped the table in front of him. His claws easily dug into the wood, marring the surface. Snarling at his sire, he said, She is mine! I claim her life and no one else will have it!

Remaining perfectly composed, the king kept his eyes locked on his son. Waving to the rest of the room, he said, Leave us. Immediately the room emptied, leaving the king and his son alone. Taking a seat at the end of the table, the king stared at his son. Motioning to a chair, Raedric didn't argue and sat down. Leaning back in his chair, the king said, What is going on? And I want the truth.

Nothing, father. I only wish to finish what was started at the last battle.

Staring intently at his son, the king said, If that was truly all it was, then you wouldn't have had that outburst during the meeting. Might I remind you that the female you are yelling about is a human, and not just any human, but a witch. I will also remind you that you already have an intended who you are shaming with your actions.

Growling in the back of his throat, Raedric said, That female is insufferable. She is not worthy of the position bestowed upon her.

Frowning, the king ran a hand through his dark hair. You are being unreasonable Raedric. She is a perfectly acceptable female from a well-bred family. She is beautiful and submissive, and will make the perfect mate.

Barring his teeth, Raedric said, If she's so perfect then you mate her, father.

Growling, the king shot to his feet. Snarling at his son, he said, You forget your place! I am alpha here, not you! You will do as I say and that is final! You will mate Justela, and you will forget about that human female! Do I make myself clear!

Growling, Raedric said, Perfectly. Standing, he bowed to his father and quickly exited the room. Striding down the hall, he glared at everyone he passed. It was not acceptable. His father didn't understand. Not only was his perfect record ruined, but his honor was at stake. But even if those reasons were completely disregarded, that woman was a challenge. The first