Trapped, page 18
part #3 of Treason and Truth Series
“Thank you, sir. None of the men, to my knowledge, believe you had anything to do with last night.”
“I can assure you I didn’t. Now, I haven’t invited you here for a chat about the responsibility for the outrage committed here last night but rather to commend you for your hard work over the Princes’ Guard.”
“Thank you, Sire. I’m simply doing my job.”
Adeone smiled. “Remarkably well from the reports I’ve received. I’d like to make you a sergeant of the guard. Would you accept the promotion?”
Smithers took a moment to reply. He hadn’t expected that. “I can hardly refuse, Your Majesty; if you think I am worth it.”
“I wouldn’t offer it to you if you were not, Sergeant. You will, under Captain Marsh, be in charge of Prince Tain’s safety. I hope you’re fit. I’d be glad if you kept the promotion private for the time being.”
“Thank you, Sire. I hope I can match His Highness’ energy.”
“Thank you. That’s all, Smithers.”
* * *
By the time Adeone rolled up his notes, all he wanted to do was to get lunch and unwind for half an hour. As he was leaving for his chambers, Wynfeld asked for a private word. Once in the Inner Office, Adeone poured them both a drink and pointed at the comfortable chairs. Wynfeld hesitated.
“I’m meant to be having a morning off, Major, and therefore have no wish to talk across my desk. Just sit down.”
“I’m sorry your morning was disturbed, Sire.”
“It wasn’t your doing, and Richardson’s feeling guilty enough for everyone. What did you need to see me about?”
“We found nothing substantial, sir. I shall leave everything else and not disturb your morning further.”
“Tell me. I appreciate the gesture, but you might say it’s now superfluous.”
“I was simply going to request an audience to discuss the state of the intelligence and training regiments, and any concerns that Your Majesty might have regarding them.”
With studied deliberation, Adeone put his glass on the table. “What makes you think I have any? And what makes you think I wouldn’t have already raised them?”
“I know Your Majesty will raise issues, but I also suspect I’ve been left to come to my own conclusions, and now I’d like to see if they match, Sire.”
Adeone steepled his fingers, taking a couple of moments to formulate his reply. “See Richardson and, Wynfeld, I thought I asked you to find a commander and extra captain.”
“I am working on it, sir.”
“Good,” said Adeone, “because I’ve forgotten what Captain Beaver looks like. I hope your new duties aren’t too onerous.”
“Not at all, sir. I’m enjoying the challenge.”
Adeone finally smiled. “Good. I see you’ve relaxed as well.”
“Sir?”
“Nothing. Let me top your glass up and we can turn the conversation to less official matters.”
Wynfeld pushed himself to his feet. “Let me fill the glasses, Sire, you’re having a morning off.”
Adeone laughed. “So I am.”
* * *
Once Wynfeld had left, Adeone sat contemplating the events. Scanlon had never openly shown his hand before. Had he meant to this time? If not, there would be repercussions for the men responsible. He consulted a list kept securely in his desk. Scanlon was at Black Hills.
Idly, Adeone tried to put himself in his brother’s shoes. If Scanlon had wanted his interest in the guards known, he’d have to commend the men who had done an excellent job at proving it. If he hadn’t, he’d want someone to take out the mistake on and the easiest person would be the one responsible for it. Adeone made a note and carried on thinking.
What had the men found? Was it anything of interest? Most of the higher guards, those in the King’s Guard, had been briefed about Scanlon’s plans. Would they be silly enough to keep incriminating material in their lockers?
He’d wait for Wynfeld’s report. He had no doubt he’d receive a detailed one as soon as the Major had chance to put pen to paper.
Lord Iris unintentionally interrupted Adeone’s thoughts. Would Prince Arkyn like Lord Irvin’s company for the Anaparian Review? By the time Iris left, he’d been given the task of reorganising the Guards’ Corridor to make way for a new locker room for the Princes’ and King’s Guard, and Adeone stopped worrying. With Lord Iris in charge, everything would go smoothly.
* * *
Wynfeld had returned to the barracks via Court. He called Beaver into his office. Keeping his subordinate officer standing, he enquired, “Anything occurring I should know about?”
“Not that isn’t already under control, sir.”
“When was the last time you took the evening report to the Palace?”
Beaver hesitated. “Erm…”
“When was the last time you spoke to His Majesty, Captain?” enquired Wynfeld icily.
“Er…”
“Do you think being Captain of Intelligence with the remit, therefore, of protecting His Majesty that that is an acceptable response? No, Beaver, it isn’t! What’s more, I don’t like being informed by His Majesty that he’s forgotten what you look like!”
“Sir—”
Wynfeld wasn’t prepared to listen to excuses. “You will never be taken seriously if you aren’t seen! You deliver the evening report to Richardson and wait for His Majesty to read it – from my experience, that is normally straight away. Before you start telling me that you don’t have time, you make time. As the previous Major said to me, I will not tolerate my officers making a mockery out of the militia. Nor will I tolerate you making a mockery out of the intelligence regiment!”
“Sir.”
“Is that all you have to say, Captain?”
“Don’t really think there’s much more I can say, sir. Your feelings are clear. When I’ve a co-captain, I should find it easier to see the outside of my office.”
“Yes, and don’t lie when I ask you if anything important or significant has happened in the city again. I have heard that Lord Scanlon visited Lord Ryson when he was here. Do you know why?”
“Not exactly, sir, but they were friends.”
“Were, Beaver, were! We might not be certain if they are anymore, which is why you do everything you can to find out anything that happens. You might be interested to know that they tried, or at least Lord Scanlon tried, for reconciliation. Now, you do what you can with that and for your information. Lord Ryson informed me of the incident with the opening words ‘I expect you’ve already heard, Major, but…’ I don’t like being put in that position. I had to answer that you were collecting such intelligence and I had yet to read your report on the matter. Please make sure I can be honest in that statement by seeing I get a report to read regarding the incident.”
* * *
Adeone lingered over his lunch, turning over the morning’s events, those at Ceardlann and at the Palace. Tain’s fears sliced at his heart, but it warmed him that his son would reveal them. There wasn’t much he could do other than continue fighting by outwitting his brother’s schemes.
He re-entered the Inner Office, unable to tell anyone what he’d eaten. Richardson had been busy; his desk now had paperwork in a neat pile. The top document was the standard midday report and, having read it, he rang for his administrator.
“Ask the Major to check if the yeomen on the Torport Gate saw anyone being escorted from the city earlier today. My brother won’t have been happy about last night. Then can you discreetly inform the Comptroller that I am planning to visit Ceardlann tonight, please? I’d like it to be a surprise for Prince Tain. He was disappointed when I had to return. Did anything else happen this morning?”
Richardson’s lips twitched. “Only one thing, Your Majesty. I’m not sure if I should pass it to you though. I remember a lot of mischievous moments coming after correspondence from the gentleman, and he’s in more of a position to make it official mischief now.”
Adeone laughed. “If you don’t hand me Percival Wealsman’s letter, Richardson, I’ll… think of something!”
Grinning, Richardson handed over a letter from the Margrave of Terasia.
When he had it, Adeone motioned for his administrator to leave and broke the seal. He didn’t stop smiling until he’d finished reading. Even then, the grin continued to light his features for a couple more minutes. He and Percival might talk over messengers occasionally, but it was about official matters. His letters were full of unofficial chatter and news – a wealth of information on one of the most distant provinces.
Adeone picked up a pen to answer the letter with equally innocuous gossip. It took his mind away from the day’s events. Sealing his reply, he rang for his administrator.
“See that gets to Terasia quickly, please, and if the tramp of boots I heard was a courier with Wynfeld’s report, you’d better bring it in.”
Two moments later, Adeone was reading the report. They’d been right only certain lockers had been searched. The Major outlined measures for making sure it never happened again, at least in the near future. Adeone made notes beside the suggestions and told Richardson to arrange a meeting with Wynfeld and Captain Pixney. He’d talk through the suggestions then. He eyed a timepiece before asking Richardson to see that everything was ready for his return to Ceardlann at five, and to extricate him from Court then if he hadn’t returned already.
* * *
Court busy but not crowded. Adeone had passing conversations with several people before spotting Lady Julia. The ladies with her drew back as he crossed to them.
“So, my lady, this is where you hide. Walk with me, if you will.” Once they were further away from listeners, he asked, “Have you heard from your renegade twin?”
Julia laughed. “Do I have one, Your Majesty?”
“I suppose that would depend on your definition of ‘renegade’, wouldn’t it? I can amend it to ‘troublesome’, if you’d prefer.”
“Oh, that twin, sir. I think I can safely say he is too busy to talk to me.”
“I believe I warned him it would be no break.”
“I believe you did, sir, several times.”
Adeone gave his neardaughter a sideways look. She had the grace to blush as they both laughed.
Adeone said, “Now, my dear, do you have a dance card all marked up for this evening?”
“No, sir, I’m quite free.”
“You haven’t captured the hearts and minds of the young lords?”
Julia murmured, “Do they have any, sir?”
Adeone shook his head. “You are certainly Festus’ daughter. If you wish to accompany me, I’m riding to Ceardlann at five on an unexpected visit.”
“I would be honoured to, sir,” replied Julia.
“Good. I’d like your company. I shouldn’t keep you from your friends any longer. I’ll come and find you when I’m ready to leave.”
Julia once again curtsied as Adeone moved off. She returned with serene features to her smiling friends.
One of whom said, jokingly, “The King favours you, Julia.”
“He is my nearfather, and we are living in his homes, Malandra,” replied Julia. “It would be rude to not speak with me, would it not? And the King is never rude, not to me.”
“Yes, but to others—”
“Is that any of our business? He is the King,” warned Julia politely.
“I suppose not. So, whom are you dancing with tonight?”
Julia smiled. “No-one. I’m sorry to disappoint you but I’m going to have an evening away from Court.”
“Got a better offer?” enquired Lady Malandra Para.
Julia laughed. “I’m hardly likely to admit it. So, whom have you got your eye on?”
They talked the next couple of hours away. It intrigued the ladies with Julia when the King made his way over to them once more. Adeone had a few words with all of them before he and Julia left.
When the King was out of hearing, Malandra said, “I’d say that was a better offer. Do you think he’ll marry again?”
Lady Indria Iris shook her head. “I think he’ll be forever grieving the late Queen.”
“Pity, all that going to waste.”
“Malandra, shame on you…!”
Chapter 27
EVENING AT CEARDLANN
Evening
Ceardlann
AS SOON AS they were clear of Court, Julia shared a glance with her nearfather and broke into spontaneous giggles. His lips twitched but he didn’t join in. If the Court wanted gossip, they could find it in anything. Something as harmless as leaving with his neardaughter, who was a guest in his residences, wouldn’t get them very far.
By the time they reached the stables, Julia’s giggles had subsided. She rarely traversed the Palace in her nearfather’s company and his taciturnity had unsettled her. She took her riding cloak and gloves from her maid with a smile of thanks, donning them swiftly. A groom led over her mare, Drifter, and helped her mount.
Adeone swung into the saddle with familiar ease. Pursuit nickering to him. He smiled, patting his horse’s neck. He could feel Pursuit’s wish to gallop, but that would have to wait.
Riding through the city, Adeone glanced at Julia. At fifteen she had a lively curiosity that Court hadn’t tempered, and a love of life that had never been quenched. He smiled to himself, remembering the baby she’d been, the young girl Ira and Cornelia had despaired and laughed over and now the young lady she was.
They crossed The Strait before his thoughts had settled themselves and were beyond the Dallin Gate by the time he said, “Do you enjoy Court?”
She glanced at him. “I enjoy the company, Sire.”
He crooked an eyebrow. “Is that all?”
She laughed again. “It’s strange without Julius. Not that I’m complaining,” she added hastily, “but I’m used to him being there to annoy.”
“I won’t tell him you miss him,” said Adeone innocently. “Far be it from me to interfere in your sisterly reticence. I was surprised you were there alone.”
Julia shrugged. “It stops me getting under mother’s feet, sir. She’s got enough on with the little ones and the house. I also thought the Comptroller might be grateful for the peace.”
“He’s had Tain living there since 1209. I’m not sure he knows what peace is anymore.”
She exchanged a wry look with him. “I can’t imagine what you mean, Uncle Adeone. Tain’s always so calm.”
“With absolutely no mischief encouraged by his older nearcousins,” Adeone mused dryly.
“Well, we’re all said to take after our fathers, sir.”
Adeone laughed aloud. “I believe we deny knowledge of that.”
“Yes. Mother never lets father get away with it.”
Once in the Rex Dallin, Adeone glanced at Julia. The ride had put colour in her cheeks and her eyes were bright.
“Shall we race to Ceardlann?” he suggested.
“Wouldn’t that be rather indecorous, Uncle Adeone?”
“What else is a nearfather for? Come on.”
Minutes later, they clattered into the stableyard laughing. Dismounting swiftly, Julia tried to straighten her hair.
“Give up. It’s not like it matters here,” said Adeone, giving her a one-armed hug. “You’re a better rider than I remember.”
“I’ve had more practice, Sire, and Drifter is a good mare.”
“She is. She still has a bit of fight in her, which for you… Ah, evening, Cornelia. How are you?”
Lady Landis gave a brief curtsy. “Well enough, thank you, Sire. I see you’ve found my daughter.”
Adeone’s eyes twinkled at her. “I didn’t realise she was such an absent daughter.”
“She has her moments,” admitted Cornelia. “I hope she’s been polite.”
Adeone chuckled. “I always find her company refreshing. She has been the model of propriety.”
“I’m pleased, sir. Julia, go and change for dinner.”
Adeone watched his neardaughter leave, his eyes bright with mischief. “She does you proud, Cornelia. Mind you, I can also see Festus in her. Do you know where Tain is?”
“In his sitting room. No doubt planning another scheme,” replied Cornelia, lips twitching. “The last was going and watching for foxes and badgers up in the woods.”
“It’s educational, I suppose. Did he go?”
“I believe so – there was a muddy trail that wound its way to the night nursery and some innocent grins, Finian’s amongst them.”
Adeone laughed. “I deny all responsibility for Tain.”
“It might be a bit late to do that,” said Cornelia with a chuckle.
“True. I shall go and alert him to my presence before someone else does. What time did you order dinner for?”
“I thought seven, sir. Elantha and Antonia could join us then as well.”
Adeone walked quickly through the house, entering his sons’ sitting room without knocking. Tain was curled up in a chair with his back to the door. Cal spotted the King but at a sharp look stayed where he was; however, Tain noticed the stillness in his friend and half turned. Adeone stepped to one side, crept up on his son and tickled him for several moments before being floored by a hug.
When he’d got his breath, Tain exclaimed, “You said you didn’t know when you were coming back!”
“I didn’t know. I thought I might. Then I found I could, so I did.”
“So what happened in Oedran?”
“The normal: an event instigated by your uncle that nearly caused a riot.”
Tain frowned. “Is that normal?”
“It’s not always unusual. I see you’ve not grown out of asking questions during the day.”
“It’s the only way to learn, father.”
Adeone chuckled. “Haven’t you been taught that it is impolite to use the King’s words back to him as a pert reply?”
“Yes, but this is Ceardlann and everyone says I’m like you were.”
“Hmm. I can tickle you again. A little bird told me you’ve been out at night and up to the forest.”
Tain shuffled his feet. “Yes, father, but we were careful.”
“I can assure you I didn’t. Now, I haven’t invited you here for a chat about the responsibility for the outrage committed here last night but rather to commend you for your hard work over the Princes’ Guard.”
“Thank you, Sire. I’m simply doing my job.”
Adeone smiled. “Remarkably well from the reports I’ve received. I’d like to make you a sergeant of the guard. Would you accept the promotion?”
Smithers took a moment to reply. He hadn’t expected that. “I can hardly refuse, Your Majesty; if you think I am worth it.”
“I wouldn’t offer it to you if you were not, Sergeant. You will, under Captain Marsh, be in charge of Prince Tain’s safety. I hope you’re fit. I’d be glad if you kept the promotion private for the time being.”
“Thank you, Sire. I hope I can match His Highness’ energy.”
“Thank you. That’s all, Smithers.”
* * *
By the time Adeone rolled up his notes, all he wanted to do was to get lunch and unwind for half an hour. As he was leaving for his chambers, Wynfeld asked for a private word. Once in the Inner Office, Adeone poured them both a drink and pointed at the comfortable chairs. Wynfeld hesitated.
“I’m meant to be having a morning off, Major, and therefore have no wish to talk across my desk. Just sit down.”
“I’m sorry your morning was disturbed, Sire.”
“It wasn’t your doing, and Richardson’s feeling guilty enough for everyone. What did you need to see me about?”
“We found nothing substantial, sir. I shall leave everything else and not disturb your morning further.”
“Tell me. I appreciate the gesture, but you might say it’s now superfluous.”
“I was simply going to request an audience to discuss the state of the intelligence and training regiments, and any concerns that Your Majesty might have regarding them.”
With studied deliberation, Adeone put his glass on the table. “What makes you think I have any? And what makes you think I wouldn’t have already raised them?”
“I know Your Majesty will raise issues, but I also suspect I’ve been left to come to my own conclusions, and now I’d like to see if they match, Sire.”
Adeone steepled his fingers, taking a couple of moments to formulate his reply. “See Richardson and, Wynfeld, I thought I asked you to find a commander and extra captain.”
“I am working on it, sir.”
“Good,” said Adeone, “because I’ve forgotten what Captain Beaver looks like. I hope your new duties aren’t too onerous.”
“Not at all, sir. I’m enjoying the challenge.”
Adeone finally smiled. “Good. I see you’ve relaxed as well.”
“Sir?”
“Nothing. Let me top your glass up and we can turn the conversation to less official matters.”
Wynfeld pushed himself to his feet. “Let me fill the glasses, Sire, you’re having a morning off.”
Adeone laughed. “So I am.”
* * *
Once Wynfeld had left, Adeone sat contemplating the events. Scanlon had never openly shown his hand before. Had he meant to this time? If not, there would be repercussions for the men responsible. He consulted a list kept securely in his desk. Scanlon was at Black Hills.
Idly, Adeone tried to put himself in his brother’s shoes. If Scanlon had wanted his interest in the guards known, he’d have to commend the men who had done an excellent job at proving it. If he hadn’t, he’d want someone to take out the mistake on and the easiest person would be the one responsible for it. Adeone made a note and carried on thinking.
What had the men found? Was it anything of interest? Most of the higher guards, those in the King’s Guard, had been briefed about Scanlon’s plans. Would they be silly enough to keep incriminating material in their lockers?
He’d wait for Wynfeld’s report. He had no doubt he’d receive a detailed one as soon as the Major had chance to put pen to paper.
Lord Iris unintentionally interrupted Adeone’s thoughts. Would Prince Arkyn like Lord Irvin’s company for the Anaparian Review? By the time Iris left, he’d been given the task of reorganising the Guards’ Corridor to make way for a new locker room for the Princes’ and King’s Guard, and Adeone stopped worrying. With Lord Iris in charge, everything would go smoothly.
* * *
Wynfeld had returned to the barracks via Court. He called Beaver into his office. Keeping his subordinate officer standing, he enquired, “Anything occurring I should know about?”
“Not that isn’t already under control, sir.”
“When was the last time you took the evening report to the Palace?”
Beaver hesitated. “Erm…”
“When was the last time you spoke to His Majesty, Captain?” enquired Wynfeld icily.
“Er…”
“Do you think being Captain of Intelligence with the remit, therefore, of protecting His Majesty that that is an acceptable response? No, Beaver, it isn’t! What’s more, I don’t like being informed by His Majesty that he’s forgotten what you look like!”
“Sir—”
Wynfeld wasn’t prepared to listen to excuses. “You will never be taken seriously if you aren’t seen! You deliver the evening report to Richardson and wait for His Majesty to read it – from my experience, that is normally straight away. Before you start telling me that you don’t have time, you make time. As the previous Major said to me, I will not tolerate my officers making a mockery out of the militia. Nor will I tolerate you making a mockery out of the intelligence regiment!”
“Sir.”
“Is that all you have to say, Captain?”
“Don’t really think there’s much more I can say, sir. Your feelings are clear. When I’ve a co-captain, I should find it easier to see the outside of my office.”
“Yes, and don’t lie when I ask you if anything important or significant has happened in the city again. I have heard that Lord Scanlon visited Lord Ryson when he was here. Do you know why?”
“Not exactly, sir, but they were friends.”
“Were, Beaver, were! We might not be certain if they are anymore, which is why you do everything you can to find out anything that happens. You might be interested to know that they tried, or at least Lord Scanlon tried, for reconciliation. Now, you do what you can with that and for your information. Lord Ryson informed me of the incident with the opening words ‘I expect you’ve already heard, Major, but…’ I don’t like being put in that position. I had to answer that you were collecting such intelligence and I had yet to read your report on the matter. Please make sure I can be honest in that statement by seeing I get a report to read regarding the incident.”
* * *
Adeone lingered over his lunch, turning over the morning’s events, those at Ceardlann and at the Palace. Tain’s fears sliced at his heart, but it warmed him that his son would reveal them. There wasn’t much he could do other than continue fighting by outwitting his brother’s schemes.
He re-entered the Inner Office, unable to tell anyone what he’d eaten. Richardson had been busy; his desk now had paperwork in a neat pile. The top document was the standard midday report and, having read it, he rang for his administrator.
“Ask the Major to check if the yeomen on the Torport Gate saw anyone being escorted from the city earlier today. My brother won’t have been happy about last night. Then can you discreetly inform the Comptroller that I am planning to visit Ceardlann tonight, please? I’d like it to be a surprise for Prince Tain. He was disappointed when I had to return. Did anything else happen this morning?”
Richardson’s lips twitched. “Only one thing, Your Majesty. I’m not sure if I should pass it to you though. I remember a lot of mischievous moments coming after correspondence from the gentleman, and he’s in more of a position to make it official mischief now.”
Adeone laughed. “If you don’t hand me Percival Wealsman’s letter, Richardson, I’ll… think of something!”
Grinning, Richardson handed over a letter from the Margrave of Terasia.
When he had it, Adeone motioned for his administrator to leave and broke the seal. He didn’t stop smiling until he’d finished reading. Even then, the grin continued to light his features for a couple more minutes. He and Percival might talk over messengers occasionally, but it was about official matters. His letters were full of unofficial chatter and news – a wealth of information on one of the most distant provinces.
Adeone picked up a pen to answer the letter with equally innocuous gossip. It took his mind away from the day’s events. Sealing his reply, he rang for his administrator.
“See that gets to Terasia quickly, please, and if the tramp of boots I heard was a courier with Wynfeld’s report, you’d better bring it in.”
Two moments later, Adeone was reading the report. They’d been right only certain lockers had been searched. The Major outlined measures for making sure it never happened again, at least in the near future. Adeone made notes beside the suggestions and told Richardson to arrange a meeting with Wynfeld and Captain Pixney. He’d talk through the suggestions then. He eyed a timepiece before asking Richardson to see that everything was ready for his return to Ceardlann at five, and to extricate him from Court then if he hadn’t returned already.
* * *
Court busy but not crowded. Adeone had passing conversations with several people before spotting Lady Julia. The ladies with her drew back as he crossed to them.
“So, my lady, this is where you hide. Walk with me, if you will.” Once they were further away from listeners, he asked, “Have you heard from your renegade twin?”
Julia laughed. “Do I have one, Your Majesty?”
“I suppose that would depend on your definition of ‘renegade’, wouldn’t it? I can amend it to ‘troublesome’, if you’d prefer.”
“Oh, that twin, sir. I think I can safely say he is too busy to talk to me.”
“I believe I warned him it would be no break.”
“I believe you did, sir, several times.”
Adeone gave his neardaughter a sideways look. She had the grace to blush as they both laughed.
Adeone said, “Now, my dear, do you have a dance card all marked up for this evening?”
“No, sir, I’m quite free.”
“You haven’t captured the hearts and minds of the young lords?”
Julia murmured, “Do they have any, sir?”
Adeone shook his head. “You are certainly Festus’ daughter. If you wish to accompany me, I’m riding to Ceardlann at five on an unexpected visit.”
“I would be honoured to, sir,” replied Julia.
“Good. I’d like your company. I shouldn’t keep you from your friends any longer. I’ll come and find you when I’m ready to leave.”
Julia once again curtsied as Adeone moved off. She returned with serene features to her smiling friends.
One of whom said, jokingly, “The King favours you, Julia.”
“He is my nearfather, and we are living in his homes, Malandra,” replied Julia. “It would be rude to not speak with me, would it not? And the King is never rude, not to me.”
“Yes, but to others—”
“Is that any of our business? He is the King,” warned Julia politely.
“I suppose not. So, whom are you dancing with tonight?”
Julia smiled. “No-one. I’m sorry to disappoint you but I’m going to have an evening away from Court.”
“Got a better offer?” enquired Lady Malandra Para.
Julia laughed. “I’m hardly likely to admit it. So, whom have you got your eye on?”
They talked the next couple of hours away. It intrigued the ladies with Julia when the King made his way over to them once more. Adeone had a few words with all of them before he and Julia left.
When the King was out of hearing, Malandra said, “I’d say that was a better offer. Do you think he’ll marry again?”
Lady Indria Iris shook her head. “I think he’ll be forever grieving the late Queen.”
“Pity, all that going to waste.”
“Malandra, shame on you…!”
Chapter 27
EVENING AT CEARDLANN
Evening
Ceardlann
AS SOON AS they were clear of Court, Julia shared a glance with her nearfather and broke into spontaneous giggles. His lips twitched but he didn’t join in. If the Court wanted gossip, they could find it in anything. Something as harmless as leaving with his neardaughter, who was a guest in his residences, wouldn’t get them very far.
By the time they reached the stables, Julia’s giggles had subsided. She rarely traversed the Palace in her nearfather’s company and his taciturnity had unsettled her. She took her riding cloak and gloves from her maid with a smile of thanks, donning them swiftly. A groom led over her mare, Drifter, and helped her mount.
Adeone swung into the saddle with familiar ease. Pursuit nickering to him. He smiled, patting his horse’s neck. He could feel Pursuit’s wish to gallop, but that would have to wait.
Riding through the city, Adeone glanced at Julia. At fifteen she had a lively curiosity that Court hadn’t tempered, and a love of life that had never been quenched. He smiled to himself, remembering the baby she’d been, the young girl Ira and Cornelia had despaired and laughed over and now the young lady she was.
They crossed The Strait before his thoughts had settled themselves and were beyond the Dallin Gate by the time he said, “Do you enjoy Court?”
She glanced at him. “I enjoy the company, Sire.”
He crooked an eyebrow. “Is that all?”
She laughed again. “It’s strange without Julius. Not that I’m complaining,” she added hastily, “but I’m used to him being there to annoy.”
“I won’t tell him you miss him,” said Adeone innocently. “Far be it from me to interfere in your sisterly reticence. I was surprised you were there alone.”
Julia shrugged. “It stops me getting under mother’s feet, sir. She’s got enough on with the little ones and the house. I also thought the Comptroller might be grateful for the peace.”
“He’s had Tain living there since 1209. I’m not sure he knows what peace is anymore.”
She exchanged a wry look with him. “I can’t imagine what you mean, Uncle Adeone. Tain’s always so calm.”
“With absolutely no mischief encouraged by his older nearcousins,” Adeone mused dryly.
“Well, we’re all said to take after our fathers, sir.”
Adeone laughed aloud. “I believe we deny knowledge of that.”
“Yes. Mother never lets father get away with it.”
Once in the Rex Dallin, Adeone glanced at Julia. The ride had put colour in her cheeks and her eyes were bright.
“Shall we race to Ceardlann?” he suggested.
“Wouldn’t that be rather indecorous, Uncle Adeone?”
“What else is a nearfather for? Come on.”
Minutes later, they clattered into the stableyard laughing. Dismounting swiftly, Julia tried to straighten her hair.
“Give up. It’s not like it matters here,” said Adeone, giving her a one-armed hug. “You’re a better rider than I remember.”
“I’ve had more practice, Sire, and Drifter is a good mare.”
“She is. She still has a bit of fight in her, which for you… Ah, evening, Cornelia. How are you?”
Lady Landis gave a brief curtsy. “Well enough, thank you, Sire. I see you’ve found my daughter.”
Adeone’s eyes twinkled at her. “I didn’t realise she was such an absent daughter.”
“She has her moments,” admitted Cornelia. “I hope she’s been polite.”
Adeone chuckled. “I always find her company refreshing. She has been the model of propriety.”
“I’m pleased, sir. Julia, go and change for dinner.”
Adeone watched his neardaughter leave, his eyes bright with mischief. “She does you proud, Cornelia. Mind you, I can also see Festus in her. Do you know where Tain is?”
“In his sitting room. No doubt planning another scheme,” replied Cornelia, lips twitching. “The last was going and watching for foxes and badgers up in the woods.”
“It’s educational, I suppose. Did he go?”
“I believe so – there was a muddy trail that wound its way to the night nursery and some innocent grins, Finian’s amongst them.”
Adeone laughed. “I deny all responsibility for Tain.”
“It might be a bit late to do that,” said Cornelia with a chuckle.
“True. I shall go and alert him to my presence before someone else does. What time did you order dinner for?”
“I thought seven, sir. Elantha and Antonia could join us then as well.”
Adeone walked quickly through the house, entering his sons’ sitting room without knocking. Tain was curled up in a chair with his back to the door. Cal spotted the King but at a sharp look stayed where he was; however, Tain noticed the stillness in his friend and half turned. Adeone stepped to one side, crept up on his son and tickled him for several moments before being floored by a hug.
When he’d got his breath, Tain exclaimed, “You said you didn’t know when you were coming back!”
“I didn’t know. I thought I might. Then I found I could, so I did.”
“So what happened in Oedran?”
“The normal: an event instigated by your uncle that nearly caused a riot.”
Tain frowned. “Is that normal?”
“It’s not always unusual. I see you’ve not grown out of asking questions during the day.”
“It’s the only way to learn, father.”
Adeone chuckled. “Haven’t you been taught that it is impolite to use the King’s words back to him as a pert reply?”
“Yes, but this is Ceardlann and everyone says I’m like you were.”
“Hmm. I can tickle you again. A little bird told me you’ve been out at night and up to the forest.”
Tain shuffled his feet. “Yes, father, but we were careful.”
