Trapped, page 42
part #3 of Treason and Truth Series
“I hope I get to see all the provinces,” said Arkyn, “but I can bear seeing them at the rate of one a year.”
His father smiled. “I bet you can. I’ll let Faran know. I know he’ll be genuinely pleased to have you visit. Have you thought any more about taking a companion?”
“Quite a lot, Sire,” admitted Arkyn. “I wondered if there’d be any objection to Kensal accompanying me. He’s not restricted by studies as Irvin is and he’d appreciate the libraries just as much.”
Adeone chuckled. “I can’t see any problems with that, Arkyn. I’ll inform the Sagamore and let him know that Lord Kensal will be using the libraries and archives.”
“Has he actually seen anything of Oedran other than the inside of the archives?” asked Tain.
Arkyn frowned. “I don’t think he has, now you mention it. I’ll have to drag him out for a ride at some point. Do you want to join us?”
As the talk turned away from Arkyn’s travels, Tain became happier.
* * *
The following morning Adeone sent for Arkyn and, as his son entered the Inner Office, smiled warmly.
“I wanted to mention an idea I had last night after you’d gone to bed. Laioril has promised us an evening of stories around the fires at Ceardlann. It occurred to me that there are two other people who would really appreciate hearing them. I believe you once promised Lord Irvin that you’d introduce him to the Chief?”
Arkyn’s face showed his astonishment. “I did, sir, but Your Majesty can’t mean…”
“Arkyn, get rid of the formality. I can’t see one evening doing much harm. Would you care to extend my invitation to Irvin and Kensal to spend an evening listening to Laioril’s stories?”
Arkyn shook his head to clear it of disbelief. “Of course, father, but I’m rather surprised and if I am—”
“Their reaction will be all the more understandable to you. Thank you. I’d like to know what they think of the old rogue’s telling.”
Arkyn grinned. “I’m sure they’ll have ample opinions, sir.”
* * *
The Prince was pensive over dinner and his friends, noticing his mood, talked about the day’s happenings and Court whilst he listened. At the end of the meal, he dismissed his household. Once seated comfortably, Kensal asked the question that Irvin would never have done:
“So, what’s got you thinking, sir?”
Arkyn smiled. “Something or nothing.” He put his drink down on the table and got to his feet. Crossing to the window, he saw in the reflection that both his friends had got up also. With laughing eyes, he said, “You might as well sit back down. You’ll need to be seated, trust me. First though, Kensal, I’d like to invite you to go to Lufia with me.”
“I’d like that very much, Your Highness, thank you,” answered Kensal.
Arkyn turned back to the room. “Good. The Sagamore is being told that you will be exploring the libraries and archives. Also, we’ll be stopping for a time with Lord Faran.”
“I don’t think I’ve heard of him, sir.”
“He’s a Lord of Lufian, but he was our ward, so became well acquainted with father. His invitation means we’ll get a good break from travelling. The other thing concerns both of you. You’ve heard me talk of Laioril and his tales. His Majesty has organised an evening of storytelling and has extended an invitation to both of you to attend it.”
Kensal said, “That would be fantastic, sir. Can you thank His Majesty?”
“Your Highness, Chief Laioril never comes into Oedran…” remarked Irvin, confused.
Arkyn smiled. “He has been known to, but, you’re right, he comes here very seldom. No, the invitation is for an evening at Ceardlann.”
Both faces drained of colour before Kensal enquired, “Ceardlann?”
“Yes. I told you you’d need to be sitting down. Getting the old rogue here is impossible. His Majesty thought both of you would appreciate his stories.”
Irvin said, “Sir, we can’t accept. Ceardlann is, well, it would be wrong.”
“Not at all, Lord Irvin. His Majesty broached the idea to me this morning. I’ve not had a hand in it. Anyway, Lord Iris has visited Ceardlann before.”
“Yes, Your Highness, but grandfather was a close acquaintance of King Altarius.”
“As you are of me, Lord Irvin. If you feel so uncomfortable then you must follow your conscience but I can’t imagine you’d disdain listening to the Chief.”
Irvin swallowed. “I wouldn’t, sir, but I have to get used to the idea.”
Arkyn nodded. “I can understand that. Kensal?”
“I would be pleased to accept, Your Highness – pleased but stunned!”
Arkyn laughed. “There’s a condition from me. You talk to no-one but each other about the visit. I can’t imagine what the Court would think if it knew. Obviously, Irvin, you may have to tell Lord Iris as you’re to be absent from home, but I’d prefer it to be only your grandfather and not the rest of your family.”
Irvin swallowed. “I can make you that promise, sir. Thank you. I’d be a fool not to go because of preconceptions. I’ll gratefully accept the invitation.”
Chapter 66
DINNER AND DOCUMENTS
Tretaldai, Week 32 – 24th Anapal, 10th Anapcis 1212
Inner Office
DRAWING HIS DOCUMENTS TOGETHER, Landis glanced at the King’s set face. Justice Counsel had been its normal mixture. Scanlon’s tenure as Justiciar was becoming increasingly harsh and there was little Adeone could do about it without being seen to interfere.
The glum and pensive expression on Adeone’s face had been there before counsel, though, so that wasn’t the whole of what was bothering his friend.
“Is there anything I can help with, Sire? You’re not your normal self.”
Adeone hesitated. “I’ll be fine. You’ll only speculate if I tell you why.”
Landis eyed him. “Rhian’s said she’s returning home, hasn’t she?”
“Yes. It’s hardly weighty, but I’d like her to stay for longer, yet I can’t ask her without it raising conjectures,” grumbled Adeone.
“Leave it with me, Sire. I’ll see what I can do.”
“I’m not sure that is reassuring but thank you. There was a matter I needed to see you about: Arkyn’s advisors. There is a post vacant.”
Accepting the change of subject, Landis nodded. “Yes, Sire. The finals for the Advisors’ School are taken at the beginning of spring with any retakes near to the end.”
“There is no recent graduate then?”
Landis paused. “Not that I feel meets His Highness’ strict criteria. I’ve had the current final year students’ records sent to me and am going through them. There are some promising students whose final exams I’ll attend and see if they match their paper potential.”
Adeone nodded. “Good. Though, Landis, the post will need to be filled very soon as the advisor in question will need to know what he is doing before the Lufian Review.”
“He’ll know, Sire, I promise you that.”
After he left the Inner Office, Landis’ wanderings took him down to Court where he took a drink from a server and seemingly walked around without a purpose, but he was hunting for two people; however, a third caught his attention first.
“Advisor Rayburn, aren’t you on duty today?”
“Yes, my lord, and His Majesty knows where to find me should he require my services. I thought I would see what the rumour front is making of my appointment.”
Landis smiled. “Have you discovered anything?”
“No, my lord. They’re all reticent whenever I’m near – rather unfortunate but not surprising.”
“Quite, Advisor. Will you excuse me? I need a word with Lord Fairson. Come and see me soon I would value your opinion on a couple of matters.”
“The pleasure would be mine, sir.”
Landis gave a short nod and walked over to Lord Fairson who greeted him with a smile and the words,
“We don’t often see you here during the day, Festus.”
“I was visiting His Majesty, Gerens, and needed a drink.”
“Then why is your glass empty? Server!”
Once the server had left, Festus smiled. “How are you?”
“Fine, thank you. I hope both you and Cornelia are well?”
Landis nodded. “Well enough. You and Malti will have to come to dinner soon.”
“We’d be glad to. I’m curious to see your new study; His Majesty says tearing you out of there is a feat best left to others.”
Landis laughed. “Only because he finds the chairs too comfortable to move himself. If you’ve not yet seen the house, you certainly will have to come. Are you busy on Septadai?”
“I don’t believe we are. Thank you.”
“I look forward to it. Oh, is Lady Rhian still staying with you?”
“Yes, why?”
Landis smiled. “I was just going to extend the invitation to her also. I hope she’ll come.”
“I’m sure she’ll be glad to accept. Will His Majesty be joining us?”
“As I’ve only just thought of the dinner party, I haven’t invited him,” replied Landis. “Do you think I should?”
“Why not?” Fairson dropped his voice. “It would make an even number.”
“So it would. If you hold no objection, I shall invite him.”
“Why should I object? I’ve never fully defined the relationship, but we’re some sort of cousins, if only wed-kin – through the marriage of Great-uncle Ewart to Lady Amara.”
“True. I’ll see you soon. I’ve just spotted Vanval and I need a word…”
* * *
Adeone arrived at Landis House at the same time as Lord Fairson and the other guests. Dismounting, he handed Pursuit’s reins to Clodach, who inclined his head smartly whilst others ran forward to steady Lord Fairson’s coach horses. With a small smile, Adeone handed Lady Fairson and Lady Rhian out of the coach himself, much to the surprise of Backery, who had moved forward to do the same job.
Lady Fairson thanked him quietly but Rhian caught his eye and silent humour passed between them.
Adeone winked and turned to Lord Fairson. “Good evening, my lord.”
“Good evening, Your Majesty. I hope you had a pleasant ride.”
“Very, thank you. The night may be cold but not at all unpleasant. I understand you’ve not yet seen the new house?”
Lord Fairson said, “Not yet, Sire. I am looking forward to being shown around. It is rare for a Lord of Oedran to have a new residence.”
“Rarer for a King, I think. Do you think I should do some building work at the Palace?”
“Why risk spoiling perfection, Your Majesty?”
Adeone smiled. “Very quick, Gerens.” He glanced towards the house. “Lord Landis, you’re getting slow.”
Landis, who’d just walked out to greet his guests, smiled. “Or Your Majesty is early, Sire?”
Adeone shook his head. “I preferred the one where you’re slow. Fairson?”
Fairson smiled. “Definitely, Your Majesty.”
Landis turned to Lady Rhian, “Am I slow, my lady?”
Rhian grinned. “How can I disagree with His Majesty, my lord?”
Adeone laughed. “Festus, are you proposing to keep the ladies in the cold simply to prove me wrong?”
Landis gave an emphatic bow. “My apologies, please come in.”
Once within the warm hall, Adeone said, “I believe Lord and Lady Fairson are looking forward to being shown around. With your agreement, Lady Rhian and I will keep Lady Landis company whilst you give them a tour.”
Landis nodded. “Of course, I’m sure Cornelia will be only too happy.”
Lady Landis, walking to greet them, nodded. “Good evening, Sire.”
“Good evening, Cornelia. How are you?”
“Very well, Your Majesty. Gerens, Malti, welcome to our rebuilt home. When Festus has finished showing you around, we’ll be in the front drawing room. Rhian, you’re looking well…”
As the party split, Adeone followed Cornelia and Rhian, smiling to himself. Once seated with a drink, he simply listened as the ladies talked. Eventually, Rhian looked over at him and caught his amusement.
“What?”
“I thought Tain was bad for talking.”
Rhian laughed. “Maybe it’s something to do with the FitzAlcis streak, Sire. Anyway, it does you good to listen for once.”
Adeone stretched his feet out in front of him. “It certainly does my throat good. As does this wine; what is it, Cornelia?”
Lady Landis smiled. “Can’t you guess, sir?”
Adeone took another sip. “I didn’t think it would have lasted this long.”
Cornelia laughed. “The bottle you passed on didn’t but Festus asked the Comptroller to try and get another.”
Adeone shook his head. “Save Miranda’s wine from unprincipled lords. She only ever gives me one bottle a year.”
Rhian smiled. “Maybe this is your second, or didn’t you notice we were given different drinks?”
Adeone frowned. “No, I didn’t. What’s Festus playing at, Cornelia?”
“I wish I knew, sir. Why don’t you just ask him?”
The King sighed. “Whenever he has a scheme, getting answers out of him before he wants to tell me is impossible.”
Rhian laughed. “I’m sure if you really wanted to know, Adeone, you’d get the answers from him.”
Adeone caught her eye, his gaze softening. “Probably.”
Twelve minutes later, Landis and the Fairsons joined them.
After dinner Adeone found himself talking quietly to Rhian about family.
“How’s Prince Arkyn?” she asked quietly.
“He’s getting there. Having Lord Kensal here has done him the world of good.”
Rhian nodded. “I’d noticed. How long is His Lordship staying for?”
“I don’t know. He’s going to Lufia with Arkyn next year, so probably until they return from there. I hope so anyway. More importantly though, you’re not going to desert us so soon, are you?”
Rhian smiled. “I do have matters that require my attention in Tradere.”
“Then go, settle them and return, Rhian. I’m not the only one who enjoys your company here.”
She smiled. “Yet I hardly see you when I am here. You’re always closeted in meetings…”
He sighed. “Don’t remind me. Will you stay?”
“Is the King requiring my presence in Oedran?”
He took her hand without realising. “No. I’m asking you, as a cousin, to prolong your visit.”
Landis glancing over smiled to himself. He hoped Rhian would say yes. His friend was easy in her company and it took a lot for him to relax around others.
Rhian took her hand back. “I can’t stay forever, Adeone.”
He sighed. “I know but at least stay another couple of seasons. Please.”
“Promise we can have more evenings like this and I might manage it.”
He nodded. “Gladly.”
* * *
Later, when she and the Fairsons had left, Landis said, “So?”
“She’s staying for longer. Thank you, Festus.”
Landis nodded. “Good, and there’s no need to thank me. I quite enjoy watching her put you in your place.”
Adeone laughed. “With friends like you, Festus, I’m surprised I have any enemies.”
Landis raised an eyebrow. “Can’t imagine what you mean, Sire. Now, I wanted to show you something that has me puzzled.”
“What’s that then?”
Landis passed over a sheet of parchment, yellowing with the passage of time.
Adeone took it. He looked with interest and surprise at the drawing of an ornate, enamelled and jewelled circular box. Its garish opulence and size was immediately recognisable.
Landis was saying, “I found it in some papers that survived the fire. I have got it right, haven’t I? That was a blessing gift given to King Altarius?”
Adeone swallowed. “Yes, it holds his ashes, at his request. I… How does it come to be here?”
Landis sighed. “I don’t know. I don’t recognise the name on the bottom of the order. I’m as puzzled as you are, sir.”
Adeone read the whole of the order instead of just looking at the artist’s sketch. He glanced at the signature and seal that adorned the page and blanched.
“I’ll take this with me. There’re a couple of things I need to check.”
Perplexed, Landis watched his friend. “Of course, sir. Are you all right?”
“I need to check something, that’s all! I’ll see you tomorrow.”
PART 5
Chapter 67
PUZZLES
Septadai, Week 32 – 28th Anapal, 14th Anapcis 1212
Landis House
ADEONE RODE TOWARDS THE PALACE in turmoil. Instead of passing the gates to the City Alcium, he rode through them. His father’s ashes were in a crypt, along with the ashes of many other kings and their burial tokens. Reining in, he dismounted. The Alcium never closed. As he entered, a white-clad alcia stepped forward to greet him.
Adeone murmured, “Is the Moonshi still awake?”
“I will check, my king,” whispered the alcia.
“Thank you.” Adeone walked forward until he was under the centre of the domed room. He sat cross-legged and let his mind fill the space until he could hear everything, every breath and movement. The muffled tread of a heavy-set man came closer. He pushed himself to his feet as the Moonshi walked towards him.
“I would like to visit my ancestors, Your Benevolence.”
Clad in silvery robes, the Moonshi motioned with his hand and Adeone walked with him in silence. On the palace-side of the City Alcium was a small private alcium to which only two people ever held a key, and Adeone had left his at the Palace.
The Moonshi unlocked the door and lit the candles before bowing out. Adeone again sat cross-legged and waited as his mind filled the room. No-one would ever disturb him here. Once truly content, he closed his eyes, trying to hold fast the feeling. A change in atmosphere made him open them. Ira was standing before him.
His father smiled. “I bet you can. I’ll let Faran know. I know he’ll be genuinely pleased to have you visit. Have you thought any more about taking a companion?”
“Quite a lot, Sire,” admitted Arkyn. “I wondered if there’d be any objection to Kensal accompanying me. He’s not restricted by studies as Irvin is and he’d appreciate the libraries just as much.”
Adeone chuckled. “I can’t see any problems with that, Arkyn. I’ll inform the Sagamore and let him know that Lord Kensal will be using the libraries and archives.”
“Has he actually seen anything of Oedran other than the inside of the archives?” asked Tain.
Arkyn frowned. “I don’t think he has, now you mention it. I’ll have to drag him out for a ride at some point. Do you want to join us?”
As the talk turned away from Arkyn’s travels, Tain became happier.
* * *
The following morning Adeone sent for Arkyn and, as his son entered the Inner Office, smiled warmly.
“I wanted to mention an idea I had last night after you’d gone to bed. Laioril has promised us an evening of stories around the fires at Ceardlann. It occurred to me that there are two other people who would really appreciate hearing them. I believe you once promised Lord Irvin that you’d introduce him to the Chief?”
Arkyn’s face showed his astonishment. “I did, sir, but Your Majesty can’t mean…”
“Arkyn, get rid of the formality. I can’t see one evening doing much harm. Would you care to extend my invitation to Irvin and Kensal to spend an evening listening to Laioril’s stories?”
Arkyn shook his head to clear it of disbelief. “Of course, father, but I’m rather surprised and if I am—”
“Their reaction will be all the more understandable to you. Thank you. I’d like to know what they think of the old rogue’s telling.”
Arkyn grinned. “I’m sure they’ll have ample opinions, sir.”
* * *
The Prince was pensive over dinner and his friends, noticing his mood, talked about the day’s happenings and Court whilst he listened. At the end of the meal, he dismissed his household. Once seated comfortably, Kensal asked the question that Irvin would never have done:
“So, what’s got you thinking, sir?”
Arkyn smiled. “Something or nothing.” He put his drink down on the table and got to his feet. Crossing to the window, he saw in the reflection that both his friends had got up also. With laughing eyes, he said, “You might as well sit back down. You’ll need to be seated, trust me. First though, Kensal, I’d like to invite you to go to Lufia with me.”
“I’d like that very much, Your Highness, thank you,” answered Kensal.
Arkyn turned back to the room. “Good. The Sagamore is being told that you will be exploring the libraries and archives. Also, we’ll be stopping for a time with Lord Faran.”
“I don’t think I’ve heard of him, sir.”
“He’s a Lord of Lufian, but he was our ward, so became well acquainted with father. His invitation means we’ll get a good break from travelling. The other thing concerns both of you. You’ve heard me talk of Laioril and his tales. His Majesty has organised an evening of storytelling and has extended an invitation to both of you to attend it.”
Kensal said, “That would be fantastic, sir. Can you thank His Majesty?”
“Your Highness, Chief Laioril never comes into Oedran…” remarked Irvin, confused.
Arkyn smiled. “He has been known to, but, you’re right, he comes here very seldom. No, the invitation is for an evening at Ceardlann.”
Both faces drained of colour before Kensal enquired, “Ceardlann?”
“Yes. I told you you’d need to be sitting down. Getting the old rogue here is impossible. His Majesty thought both of you would appreciate his stories.”
Irvin said, “Sir, we can’t accept. Ceardlann is, well, it would be wrong.”
“Not at all, Lord Irvin. His Majesty broached the idea to me this morning. I’ve not had a hand in it. Anyway, Lord Iris has visited Ceardlann before.”
“Yes, Your Highness, but grandfather was a close acquaintance of King Altarius.”
“As you are of me, Lord Irvin. If you feel so uncomfortable then you must follow your conscience but I can’t imagine you’d disdain listening to the Chief.”
Irvin swallowed. “I wouldn’t, sir, but I have to get used to the idea.”
Arkyn nodded. “I can understand that. Kensal?”
“I would be pleased to accept, Your Highness – pleased but stunned!”
Arkyn laughed. “There’s a condition from me. You talk to no-one but each other about the visit. I can’t imagine what the Court would think if it knew. Obviously, Irvin, you may have to tell Lord Iris as you’re to be absent from home, but I’d prefer it to be only your grandfather and not the rest of your family.”
Irvin swallowed. “I can make you that promise, sir. Thank you. I’d be a fool not to go because of preconceptions. I’ll gratefully accept the invitation.”
Chapter 66
DINNER AND DOCUMENTS
Tretaldai, Week 32 – 24th Anapal, 10th Anapcis 1212
Inner Office
DRAWING HIS DOCUMENTS TOGETHER, Landis glanced at the King’s set face. Justice Counsel had been its normal mixture. Scanlon’s tenure as Justiciar was becoming increasingly harsh and there was little Adeone could do about it without being seen to interfere.
The glum and pensive expression on Adeone’s face had been there before counsel, though, so that wasn’t the whole of what was bothering his friend.
“Is there anything I can help with, Sire? You’re not your normal self.”
Adeone hesitated. “I’ll be fine. You’ll only speculate if I tell you why.”
Landis eyed him. “Rhian’s said she’s returning home, hasn’t she?”
“Yes. It’s hardly weighty, but I’d like her to stay for longer, yet I can’t ask her without it raising conjectures,” grumbled Adeone.
“Leave it with me, Sire. I’ll see what I can do.”
“I’m not sure that is reassuring but thank you. There was a matter I needed to see you about: Arkyn’s advisors. There is a post vacant.”
Accepting the change of subject, Landis nodded. “Yes, Sire. The finals for the Advisors’ School are taken at the beginning of spring with any retakes near to the end.”
“There is no recent graduate then?”
Landis paused. “Not that I feel meets His Highness’ strict criteria. I’ve had the current final year students’ records sent to me and am going through them. There are some promising students whose final exams I’ll attend and see if they match their paper potential.”
Adeone nodded. “Good. Though, Landis, the post will need to be filled very soon as the advisor in question will need to know what he is doing before the Lufian Review.”
“He’ll know, Sire, I promise you that.”
After he left the Inner Office, Landis’ wanderings took him down to Court where he took a drink from a server and seemingly walked around without a purpose, but he was hunting for two people; however, a third caught his attention first.
“Advisor Rayburn, aren’t you on duty today?”
“Yes, my lord, and His Majesty knows where to find me should he require my services. I thought I would see what the rumour front is making of my appointment.”
Landis smiled. “Have you discovered anything?”
“No, my lord. They’re all reticent whenever I’m near – rather unfortunate but not surprising.”
“Quite, Advisor. Will you excuse me? I need a word with Lord Fairson. Come and see me soon I would value your opinion on a couple of matters.”
“The pleasure would be mine, sir.”
Landis gave a short nod and walked over to Lord Fairson who greeted him with a smile and the words,
“We don’t often see you here during the day, Festus.”
“I was visiting His Majesty, Gerens, and needed a drink.”
“Then why is your glass empty? Server!”
Once the server had left, Festus smiled. “How are you?”
“Fine, thank you. I hope both you and Cornelia are well?”
Landis nodded. “Well enough. You and Malti will have to come to dinner soon.”
“We’d be glad to. I’m curious to see your new study; His Majesty says tearing you out of there is a feat best left to others.”
Landis laughed. “Only because he finds the chairs too comfortable to move himself. If you’ve not yet seen the house, you certainly will have to come. Are you busy on Septadai?”
“I don’t believe we are. Thank you.”
“I look forward to it. Oh, is Lady Rhian still staying with you?”
“Yes, why?”
Landis smiled. “I was just going to extend the invitation to her also. I hope she’ll come.”
“I’m sure she’ll be glad to accept. Will His Majesty be joining us?”
“As I’ve only just thought of the dinner party, I haven’t invited him,” replied Landis. “Do you think I should?”
“Why not?” Fairson dropped his voice. “It would make an even number.”
“So it would. If you hold no objection, I shall invite him.”
“Why should I object? I’ve never fully defined the relationship, but we’re some sort of cousins, if only wed-kin – through the marriage of Great-uncle Ewart to Lady Amara.”
“True. I’ll see you soon. I’ve just spotted Vanval and I need a word…”
* * *
Adeone arrived at Landis House at the same time as Lord Fairson and the other guests. Dismounting, he handed Pursuit’s reins to Clodach, who inclined his head smartly whilst others ran forward to steady Lord Fairson’s coach horses. With a small smile, Adeone handed Lady Fairson and Lady Rhian out of the coach himself, much to the surprise of Backery, who had moved forward to do the same job.
Lady Fairson thanked him quietly but Rhian caught his eye and silent humour passed between them.
Adeone winked and turned to Lord Fairson. “Good evening, my lord.”
“Good evening, Your Majesty. I hope you had a pleasant ride.”
“Very, thank you. The night may be cold but not at all unpleasant. I understand you’ve not yet seen the new house?”
Lord Fairson said, “Not yet, Sire. I am looking forward to being shown around. It is rare for a Lord of Oedran to have a new residence.”
“Rarer for a King, I think. Do you think I should do some building work at the Palace?”
“Why risk spoiling perfection, Your Majesty?”
Adeone smiled. “Very quick, Gerens.” He glanced towards the house. “Lord Landis, you’re getting slow.”
Landis, who’d just walked out to greet his guests, smiled. “Or Your Majesty is early, Sire?”
Adeone shook his head. “I preferred the one where you’re slow. Fairson?”
Fairson smiled. “Definitely, Your Majesty.”
Landis turned to Lady Rhian, “Am I slow, my lady?”
Rhian grinned. “How can I disagree with His Majesty, my lord?”
Adeone laughed. “Festus, are you proposing to keep the ladies in the cold simply to prove me wrong?”
Landis gave an emphatic bow. “My apologies, please come in.”
Once within the warm hall, Adeone said, “I believe Lord and Lady Fairson are looking forward to being shown around. With your agreement, Lady Rhian and I will keep Lady Landis company whilst you give them a tour.”
Landis nodded. “Of course, I’m sure Cornelia will be only too happy.”
Lady Landis, walking to greet them, nodded. “Good evening, Sire.”
“Good evening, Cornelia. How are you?”
“Very well, Your Majesty. Gerens, Malti, welcome to our rebuilt home. When Festus has finished showing you around, we’ll be in the front drawing room. Rhian, you’re looking well…”
As the party split, Adeone followed Cornelia and Rhian, smiling to himself. Once seated with a drink, he simply listened as the ladies talked. Eventually, Rhian looked over at him and caught his amusement.
“What?”
“I thought Tain was bad for talking.”
Rhian laughed. “Maybe it’s something to do with the FitzAlcis streak, Sire. Anyway, it does you good to listen for once.”
Adeone stretched his feet out in front of him. “It certainly does my throat good. As does this wine; what is it, Cornelia?”
Lady Landis smiled. “Can’t you guess, sir?”
Adeone took another sip. “I didn’t think it would have lasted this long.”
Cornelia laughed. “The bottle you passed on didn’t but Festus asked the Comptroller to try and get another.”
Adeone shook his head. “Save Miranda’s wine from unprincipled lords. She only ever gives me one bottle a year.”
Rhian smiled. “Maybe this is your second, or didn’t you notice we were given different drinks?”
Adeone frowned. “No, I didn’t. What’s Festus playing at, Cornelia?”
“I wish I knew, sir. Why don’t you just ask him?”
The King sighed. “Whenever he has a scheme, getting answers out of him before he wants to tell me is impossible.”
Rhian laughed. “I’m sure if you really wanted to know, Adeone, you’d get the answers from him.”
Adeone caught her eye, his gaze softening. “Probably.”
Twelve minutes later, Landis and the Fairsons joined them.
After dinner Adeone found himself talking quietly to Rhian about family.
“How’s Prince Arkyn?” she asked quietly.
“He’s getting there. Having Lord Kensal here has done him the world of good.”
Rhian nodded. “I’d noticed. How long is His Lordship staying for?”
“I don’t know. He’s going to Lufia with Arkyn next year, so probably until they return from there. I hope so anyway. More importantly though, you’re not going to desert us so soon, are you?”
Rhian smiled. “I do have matters that require my attention in Tradere.”
“Then go, settle them and return, Rhian. I’m not the only one who enjoys your company here.”
She smiled. “Yet I hardly see you when I am here. You’re always closeted in meetings…”
He sighed. “Don’t remind me. Will you stay?”
“Is the King requiring my presence in Oedran?”
He took her hand without realising. “No. I’m asking you, as a cousin, to prolong your visit.”
Landis glancing over smiled to himself. He hoped Rhian would say yes. His friend was easy in her company and it took a lot for him to relax around others.
Rhian took her hand back. “I can’t stay forever, Adeone.”
He sighed. “I know but at least stay another couple of seasons. Please.”
“Promise we can have more evenings like this and I might manage it.”
He nodded. “Gladly.”
* * *
Later, when she and the Fairsons had left, Landis said, “So?”
“She’s staying for longer. Thank you, Festus.”
Landis nodded. “Good, and there’s no need to thank me. I quite enjoy watching her put you in your place.”
Adeone laughed. “With friends like you, Festus, I’m surprised I have any enemies.”
Landis raised an eyebrow. “Can’t imagine what you mean, Sire. Now, I wanted to show you something that has me puzzled.”
“What’s that then?”
Landis passed over a sheet of parchment, yellowing with the passage of time.
Adeone took it. He looked with interest and surprise at the drawing of an ornate, enamelled and jewelled circular box. Its garish opulence and size was immediately recognisable.
Landis was saying, “I found it in some papers that survived the fire. I have got it right, haven’t I? That was a blessing gift given to King Altarius?”
Adeone swallowed. “Yes, it holds his ashes, at his request. I… How does it come to be here?”
Landis sighed. “I don’t know. I don’t recognise the name on the bottom of the order. I’m as puzzled as you are, sir.”
Adeone read the whole of the order instead of just looking at the artist’s sketch. He glanced at the signature and seal that adorned the page and blanched.
“I’ll take this with me. There’re a couple of things I need to check.”
Perplexed, Landis watched his friend. “Of course, sir. Are you all right?”
“I need to check something, that’s all! I’ll see you tomorrow.”
PART 5
Chapter 67
PUZZLES
Septadai, Week 32 – 28th Anapal, 14th Anapcis 1212
Landis House
ADEONE RODE TOWARDS THE PALACE in turmoil. Instead of passing the gates to the City Alcium, he rode through them. His father’s ashes were in a crypt, along with the ashes of many other kings and their burial tokens. Reining in, he dismounted. The Alcium never closed. As he entered, a white-clad alcia stepped forward to greet him.
Adeone murmured, “Is the Moonshi still awake?”
“I will check, my king,” whispered the alcia.
“Thank you.” Adeone walked forward until he was under the centre of the domed room. He sat cross-legged and let his mind fill the space until he could hear everything, every breath and movement. The muffled tread of a heavy-set man came closer. He pushed himself to his feet as the Moonshi walked towards him.
“I would like to visit my ancestors, Your Benevolence.”
Clad in silvery robes, the Moonshi motioned with his hand and Adeone walked with him in silence. On the palace-side of the City Alcium was a small private alcium to which only two people ever held a key, and Adeone had left his at the Palace.
The Moonshi unlocked the door and lit the candles before bowing out. Adeone again sat cross-legged and waited as his mind filled the room. No-one would ever disturb him here. Once truly content, he closed his eyes, trying to hold fast the feeling. A change in atmosphere made him open them. Ira was standing before him.
