Prologue
That the generation to come might know them, even the children which should be born. . . .”
PSALMS 78:6
IN the four years immediately following the accession of Brion Haldane King of Gwynedd, the new sovereign perforce focused his energies on perfecting the statecraft learned at his fathers knee, and also honing the martial skills he would need as a warrior and leader of men. He had come to the Crown at fourteen, of age in law; but for a warrior-king, the true rite of passage into adulthood came only with the accolade of knighthood.
He would receive that accolade on his eighteenth birthday, conferred by both his royal uncles. Richard Haldane Duke of Carthmoor, younger half-brother of the late King Donal, was reckoned one of the most accomplished knights of his generation, and had ultimate responsibility for the training of all the young boys and adolescents who came to court to hone their warrior skills in royal service. In his hands, Brion Haldane had been but another squire as he completed his apprenticeship, wearing no crown when he bowed himself to the discipline his uncle imposed; and he had learned his lessons well.
Slated to assist Duke Richard was King Brions other uncle: his mothers brother, Illann King of Howicce and Llannedd, come with his son and heir, Prince Ronan (himself only recently knighted), to likewise lay his royal hand on the sword that conferred this public recognition of his nephews true coming of age.
Many were the noble witnesses to this royal rite of passage. In addition to his familyhis mother, his surviving brother, and two younger sisterssome were young men like the king himself: Ewan Duke of Claibourne, but three-and-thirty; Sir Phares Donovan and Sir Jaska Collins, among the last knights to be made by Brions late father; Sir Joris Talbot, eldest son of Mearas royal governor; and Sir Jamyl Arilan, a favored companion of the king, knighted by Duke Richard but two years before, whose late uncle Seisyll had served both Brion and his father before him.
Others had been his fathers friends and confidantes: Tiarnán MacRae and Jiri Redfearn, both with sons now preparing for royal service, and several of the great earls: Jared McLain Earl of Kierney, Caulay MacArdry Earl of Transha, and Sir Kenneth Morgan, now Earl of Lendour, who had come to his title through his young son, Alaric Morgan, who was sired on a Deryni heiress and destined to become the kings magical protector and companionif he could be kept alive that long. For though young Alaric was heir to a great duchy, one of only four in the land, he also was not yet eight years old, with powerful enemies who would risk much to see him dead.
Meanwhile, Brion King of Gwynedd had enemies of his own, both east and west. Happily for his young reign, none of these had yet dared any overt measures to undermine his crownnone, at least, that had required direct intervention. Separatist factions in Meara, to the west, continued to skirt the edges of rebellion, but nothing had flared that was beyond the ability of the provincial royal governor to quell it. That would change, as it always did in MearaKing Donal had been obliged to mount expeditions into Meara on a regular basisbut for now, all was quiet in the province.
So it was, as well, in Torenth, to the eastat least so far as anyone knew. Not long before Brions accession, the Kingdom of Torenth had suffered serious upheavals in the highest echelons of power: the still-unexplained death of King Nimurs eldest son, Crown Prince Nimur, and the subsequent setting aside of the second son, Prince Torval, in favor of Prince Károly, the meek and bookish third son. Torenth had offered no official statement beyond the bare announcement of Prince Nimurs passing, but the House of Furstán was Deryni, and used its magic openlywhich could explain much. Persistent rumor had it that the true cause of Prince Nimurs death had been a magical experiment gone horribly wrong, and that his brother Torval had been present, and was driven mad by what he had seen and experienced.
Whatever the cause, this unforeseen shift in the Torenthi succession had left Torenth ill equipped to take advantage of the youth and inexperience of Gwynedds new king. Both Prince Nimur and his brother had been grown men, well capable of backing up an aging sire in declining health; and neither would have hesitated to take up the Torenthi cause, which was the eventual re-conquest of Gwynedd.
That assumption appeared not to hold true for Prince Károly, the new Torenthi heir, who was a decade older than Brion, but had received only a rudimentary portion of the education for kingship that was lavished on his two elder brothersand his own heir was young yet, and certainly lacking in the training of a future king. Of a certainty, Károly would have set about remedying that deficiency while Brion scrambled to complete his own training for kingship, but thus far, Torenth had made no move beyond the usual border incursions that tested periodically at Gwynedds eastern defenses.
Old King Nimur had even sent an envoy bearing his congratulations on King Brions knightingCount János Sokrat, aged but little since his visit for Brions fourteenth birthday observancesbut no Torenthi royalty accompanied him this time around. The kings advisors duly noted the Torenthi presence, and the absence of any over-large escort, and concluded that the visit was unlikely to spawn any great threat. Brion, so advised, put the matter out of his head and set about readying himself for the ceremony.
Chapter 1
Blessed art thou, O land, when thy king is the son of nobles . . .”
ECCLESIASTES 10:17
STANDING in his own great hall at Rhemuth, surrounded by men sworn to uphold him, Brion King of Gwynedd knew that the faintly queasy sensation in his gut came of no rational fear for his safety. Nonetheless, the sight of a foreign king standing between him and his throne, armed and crowned, could not but give one pause, especially when that king was accompanied by another prince regarded as one of the most puissant warriors in all the Eleven Kingdoms.
That the two men were his royal uncles only partially reassured, for blood greed had been the downfall of many a young king come prematurely to his crown, with still much to learn of his craft as monarch and warriorand Brion had been but fourteen at his coronation, hardly four years before.
Nonetheless, all experience before and since that day declared that Brion King of Gwynedd need harbor no such misgivings about these two men. For as long as he could remember, Prince Richard Haldane, younger half-brother of his late father, had been his teacher, his mentor, his most merciless critic when Brion failed to do his very best.
As for the goodwill of his other unclethe one who wore a crown of his ownthat, likewise, was beyond question. Illann King of Howicce and Llannedd was the beloved elder brother of Brions mother, the Dowager Queen Richeldis, come especially to honor this milestone in his nephews young reign. He stood now at Richards left, peacock-bright in the colors of Howicce and Llannedd amid all that Haldane crimson. Both he and Richard were the sons of kings, of blood equally royal to Brions own, yet they had come to their feet at their nephews approach, inclining their heads in respect.
The man who had presented the royal candidate, and had fixed the golden spurs to his heels, was also of blood both ancient and royal. Ewan Duke of Claibourne was a direct descendant of the last prince of Kheldour, to the north, and one of only four dukes in Gwynedd. Assisting him had been the scion of another great ducal family: Jared Earl of Kierney, deputizing for his ailing father, the Duke of Cassan. Like the royal uncles, both of these men also wore noble coronets upon their brows, and all of them bore steel at their hips.
By contrast, Brion King of Gwynedd wore no crown or other emblem of his royal estate, no rich raiment or even any weapon. With his sable hair caught back severely in a warriors knot, he had donned the robes traditional to any candidate for knighthood: the unadorned inner robe of white, signifying the purity of his honor, partially covered by the stark black over-tunic symbolic of the grave to which all eventually must come.
Over both lay the bloodred mantle: fittingly, in Brions case, of Haldane crimson. To such blood had he been bornblood which, even more than any mere knight, he must be willing to shed in defense of his realm, even unto death. At his coronation, the new king had pledged his life to his kingdom: reckoned a man, in law, for the governing of his realm, and well enough prepared in mind, but all too aware that he wore still the body of a half-grown youth, with much yet to learn of the warrior he must become, if he hoped to keep his crown.
That he had kept it thus far was due, in part, to his royal uncles, to the princely dukes flanking him, and to the loyalty and courage of the sandy-haired man standing close beside the throne: Sir Kenneth Morgan Earl of Lendour, who bore the great state crown of leaves and crosses intertwined as if it were no more burden than its mere weight of gold and precious stones, though he had saved it and Brions life on more than one occasion.
And the towheaded boy at Kenneths side, who had proudly carried the golden spurs now affixed to the kings heels, and assisted in their fastening, was cut from the same cloth as his sire: quick and earnest, utterly devoted to Brion, and so much more than he appeared to be, for all that he was only seven years of age. Because his mother had been heiress to a great duchy, Alaric Morgan would be Duke of Corwyn when he came of age, one of the most powerful men in the land. But Alyce de Corwyn had also been Deryni, possessor of powers both feared and resented by ordinary folkwhich meant that many feared who and what young Alaric was, and what he might become.
The Church, in particular, had made its position abundantly clear regarding Deryni, for those trained in that heritage were believed to wield extraordinary powers that could compromise anothers free will and even enslave the soul of the unwitting. Several of Gwynedds bishops, some of whom were present today, had been particularly vocal in their condemnation, and one of them had nearly been the death of Alarics mother before he was even born.
Yet King Brions father, only days before his death, had commended the boy Alaric to Brions especial attention and care, promising a legacy of benign magical powers to be employed in Brions service, and further powers to be imparted for Brions own use.
Was it true? Brion was not sure he remembered all that had been told him, but he believed and hoped that further knowledge would be revealed to him in due coursehopefully, well before he really needed it! And it was all somehow linked to the blond boy holding a crimson pillow beside the throne of Gwynedd.
But that was for the futurewith any luck, some years in the future, when Alaric Morgan was grown. For now, Brion returned his full focus to his uncles, from whom he was about to receive the knightly accolade, which only another knight might bestow.
Your Royal Highness,” a herald intoned, addressing Richard, having been invested with the spurs, the noble squire Brion Haldane now presents himself before the throne of Gwynedd to request the accolade from your hand, that he may henceforth be recognized as a knight.”
Richard inclined his head, a faint smile curving within the sable mustache and close-clipped beard as his eyes met Brions, Haldane grey to Haldane grey. In that moment, wearing Haldane crimson and a royal diadem, with one hand resting on the hilt of the sword at his hip, he very much resembled his late brother.
Kneel now, Brion Haldane,” he commanded.
With a nod of his head that was more jerky than intended, Brion moved forward to kneel on the scarlet cushion that young Alaric Morgan now set atop the first step of the dais; before, it had borne the golden spurs. As he settled himself and looked up, Richard turned to the crimson-clad duty-squire standing behind him: Brions younger brother and heir presumptive, the twelve-year-old Prince Nigel, who extended the hilt of the sheathed Haldane sword, borne by many generations of Haldane kings. He retained the jeweled scabbard as his uncle drew forth the blade in a hiss of fine steel, clasping it to his breast in wide-eyed awe as Richard raised the blade and briefly brought the swords cross-hilt to his lips in salute.
Richard paused then as King Illann reached across to rest his bejeweled hand atop Richards, in pointed reminder that this knighthood came by way of two lines of royal kings and noble knights. The significance was not lost on Brion or, indeed, on any of those present.
Very briefly, as the flat of the blade descended toward his right shoulder, Brion closed his eyes and prayed that he might be worthy of this new charge, then lifted his gaze to Richards once more, as the flat of the blade touched his right shoulder and Richard spoke.
In the name of the Father, and of the Son”the blade lifted to touch the left shoulderand of the Holy Spirit”the blade arched upward to briefly rest atop Brions headbe thou a good and faithful knight. Amen.”
As the blade lifted again, to briefly rest over Richards right shoulder, he glanced aside at Illann with a speaking glance. Smiling, Illann offered the new knight his right hand and said, Arise, Sir Brion Haldane, and be invested with the further symbols of your new estate.”
Murmurs of approval rippled among the assembled witnesses as Brion clasped his uncles hand and got to his feet, grinning as he accepted the bear hug that the older man offered. Richard, after passing the Haldane blade to Prince Nigel, likewise offered the new knight a quick embrace. As he did so, a beaming Dowager Queen Richeldis joined them from the sidelines, flanked by Brions two younger sisters. Xenia, the adoring thirteen-year-old, proudly bore the white belt across both hands like some holy relic: the most visible outward symbol of the honor her brother had just received. Silke, who was nine, had been entrusted with a single red rose.
Composing himself to a properly kingly mien, Brion bent to kiss his mothers hand, then straightened and lifted his arms to either side so that she and his sisters could pass the belt around his waist and under his mantle, stark white against the sable of his over-robe.
Congratulations, my son,” his mother murmured, as she fastened its jeweled clasp. May this belt be always a reminder to keep your honor spotless.”
When she had kissed him on both cheeks and hugged him close, Silke shyly presented him with her rose, which he tucked into his belt. He then accepted a kiss from each of his sisters, in turn.
After that, as the women drew back, Brion turned back to his uncle and again sank to his knees on the scarlet cushion. At the same time, the aged Archbishop of Rhemuth came forward, coped and mitered in cloth of gold, to stand as witness. Richard had retrieved the Haldane sword from Prince Nigel, and now laid it across both palms, extending it to Brion. In response, the king laid his hands atop Richards in oath, looking him in the eyes.
Here before God and these witnesses, and with my hands upon the sword of my fathers, I, Brion Donal Cinhil Urien, knight, do make this reaffirmation of my coronation vows,” he said steadily. I solemnly promise and swear that I will do my utmost to keep the peace in Gwynedd and govern its peoples according to our ancient laws and customs; that I will, to the best of my ability, cause law and justice, in mercy, to be executed in all my judgments, so that evil and wrongdoing shall be suppressed, and the laws of God maintained. All this I vow, on my honor as a king and as a true knight, so help me God.”
With that, he bent to kiss the blade between his hands, crossed himself in response to the blessing uttered by the archbishop, In Nomine Patris, et Filii, et Spiritus Sancti,” then waited while his uncle slipped the sword into its jeweled scabbard and laid it back across his hands. As he stood, shifting the sheathed sword into the crook of his left arm, Kenneth Morgan brought forward the state crown of leaves and crosses intertwined, inclining his head as he lifted it slightly between them.
Sire, I return the crown of Gwynedd into your good keeping,” he said.
Smiling, the king bent slightly so that Kenneth could set the crown upon his brow, then turned to face the waiting court. At the same time, Ewan Duke of Claibourne declared: My lords, I present to you Sir Brion Haldane, King of Gwynedd, Prince of Meara, Lord of the Purple March, and now, by Gods grace, a knight!”
A roar of approbation erupted from the assembled court, along with an energetic stamping of feet, only abating when the smiling Brion lifted a hand for silence. As he did so, Duke Richard moved from in front of the throne to make way for his nephew, and Kenneth took his place beside the throne with half a dozen others on whose counsel the king relied. King Illann retired to a noble chair set among those of his sister the queen, her two daughters, and also his own son. Young Alaric Morgan, his official duties now complete, retreated into the charge of Sir Llion Farquahar, the young Corwyn knight who looked after him when his father was otherwise engaged.
That was nicely done, Master Alaric,” Sir Llion murmured, as he shepherded the boy toward a side door. Now wed best get you changed into proper tourney clothes. And you have a pony waiting to be groomed.”
But the king is going to make more knights,” the boy replied, craning his neck back over his shoulder to glimpse the senior squires gathering at the back of the hall with their escorts of family and supporters. And then there will be birthday gifts.”
Chuckling, Llion smiled faintly as he ushered the boy out into the garden colonnade adjoining the great hall.
Have you not had enough pomp and ceremony for one day?” he teased. I thought you were keen to beat Airey Redfearn and Aean Morrisey in the ring-tiltingand your cousin Duncan will be eager to have you cheer him on.”
Thats later this afternoon,” Alaric said reasonably. We have plenty of time.”
And why would you want to go back into that hot and crowded great hall?” Llion countered lightly, as he scanned the handful of others who had sought the cooler climes of the garden. Fortunately, no one was close by.
Well, Ijust like to watch people,” the boy said uncertainly.
Hmmm, yes. And I have no doubt that some of them would derive great satisfaction from watching youthough I very much doubt that like has anything to do with it.” Llion glanced around again, and kept his voice low. Did you not notice Bishop de Nore glaring at you the whole time you were standing there beside your father, because you were close to the king? And it is quite possible that there are Torenthi emissaries among the observers, who almost certainly would be Deryni. They dont hate you in the way that de Nore hates you, but it certainly would be to the advantage of their king if the King of Gwynedd did not have a future Deryni duke being brought up in the safety of his court.”
The boy glanced down at his feet, clearly unhappy with the direction the conversation was taking.
Alaric,” Llion murmured, drawing the boy closer into the shelter of one of the columns, you know what could happen. Your father or I cannot always be there to protect youbut even if we could, it makes no sense to deliberately expose yourself to danger.”
I know, but”
No buts about it, lad,” Llion returned. There is no point courting an incident. Time enough for that when youre grown, if you feel you must. For now, however, we need to prepare for the tournament. I know that I dont intend to dirty my court garb. Lets go upstairs and get changed.”
The boy rolled his eyes and sighed with the indulgent acceptance of any well-mannered seven-year-old, but he was already bestirring himself to head toward the entrance to a back stair, Llion trailing after him as the murmur of distant voices from the great hall faded behind them.
Meanwhile, those voices betokened the ongoing business of the kings court, which must be concluded before the assembled nobles might retire to the tournament field. Though the conferring of knighthood customarily took place at Twelfth Night court, usually the one following a candidates eighteenth birthday, Brion had still been but seventeen at the Twelfth Night just past. Exceptions were often made for good cause, especially in the case of a king or prince, but Brion had declined to exercise that prerogative, even though his uncle, Duke Richard, had declared him easily ready in level of strength and skill.
I am happy enough to wait,” the king had said, in the lead-up to Christmas court. My brother Nigel is to receive his squires spurs this year. He should not have to share that day with the knighting of an older brother. I shall hold a birthday court and tournament instead, and receive my knighthood at that time.”
Accordingly, Prince Nigel Haldane had duly received his promotion to squire at the previous Twelfth Night, ahead of all others moving from page to squire. It had given the two brothers opportunity to serve as squires together for six months, albeit as senior and junior squire. It had also underlined their love, which shone proudly in Prince Nigels gaze as he attended the throne todayand had provided the younger prince with a prize vantage point from which to observe this, his elder brothers official coming-of-age as a warrior as well as a king.
The king now took center stage in the further ceremonies of the day, by which additional young men would receive the knightly initiation. In a display of largesse unseen in recent memory, the newly dubbed Sir Brion Haldane conferred the accolade on six worthy candidates from lesser noble families throughout the realm: promising younger sons whose modest circumstances would have precluded taking up this honor without royal patronage, and whose gratitude would reinforce their loyalty in the years to come. All six had served the royal household as senior squires at least since the previous Twelfth Night, refining the skills acquired at various provincial courts and learning the ways of royal service, as they submitted themselves to the discipline of Duke Richards impeccable tutelage. For each candidate, the same care was applied as had been given the king, with the six new knights then taken into personal service to the king, as household knights. The measure met with great popular approval.
Following these formalities came a less formal birthday court, with presentations of felicitations both personal and diplomatic, and often more tangible tokens of esteem. Similar to what had occurred on his fourteenth birthday, the young king received gifts appropriate to his now-adult status: new items of armor and weaponry; swords and daggers; a finely illuminated compendium of religious houses in the southwest from his uncle the King of Howicce and Llannedd; a brace of brindle coursing hounds from the Emir of Nur Hallaj; a fine RKassan stallion from the Prince of Andelon; a hawk from the governor of Meara, delivered by his eldest son; a little recurve bow inlaid with ivory and a quiver of fine hunting arrows from the King of Torenth, delivered by his envoy, Count János Sokrat; half a dozen lengths of gold-shot crimson silk from the Hort of Orsal; and divers gifts of gold and precious jewels from other representatives of the ambassadorial corps, with delegates from as far away as distant Bremagne.
I thank all of you for your kind gifts,” Brion said to the assembled court, when all the presentations had been made. You have been most generous, and I shall treasure these tokens of your esteem. But having concluded the formal part of our proceedings, I now invite all of you to join us for a light collation before we adjourn to the tourney field, for I have a hankering to test my new knights.” He nodded to the other newly knighted men, not bothering to control his smile. I look forward to an interesting afternoon, gentlemen!”
Chapter 2
My son, hear the instruction of thy father, and forsake not the law of thy mother.”
PROVERBS 1:8
SEVERAL hours later, all the company had adjourned to the tourney field in the lower ward of the castle. Sir Kenneth Morgan was among those who came down with the others to share in the kings celebrations, riding the occasional run at the quintain, but also to watch his own son in the competitions.
The boy was goodfar better than any lad of only seven summers had any right to be, even one with so illustrious a lineage. As young Alaric Morgan wheeled his pony and started his seventh run at the rings, child-sized lance leveled squarely at the dangling targetand snared his seventh ring!rider and mount seemed to move as a single entity.
Watching from behind a fence rail at the sidelines, the boys father gave an approving nod and glanced up at the blond, mop-headed young knight perched on the fence beside him: Sir Llion Farquahar, who had become almost like a second son to him, and who looked after his true-born son.
Earlier, immediately after the ceremony that made a knight of Brion King of Gwynedd and six others, the king and his new knights had enjoyed a mock melee battle against a like number of older knights, fought with blunted weapons and courtesies never accorded in true combat. At Kenneths urging, Llion had volunteered to be one of the seven riding against the kingand helped to trounce the royal side.
Now, while the squires in training rode at the quintain across the field, or galloped down a flag-marked lane with wooden swords in hand, and tried to whack head-sized sacks of wool from stout posts set at the height of a man, the duly humbled Sir Brion Haldane was taking challenges from individual knightsand making challenges, and winning far more often than he lost. For the pages, who were only early in their training for eventual knighthood, Duke Richard had arranged a competition of ring-tilting. Alaric, though not yet old enough to have entered formal pages training, was outperforming boys nearly twice his age.
Hes riding very well today,” Kenneth observed, well aware that Llion could claim a good deal of the credit. Since taking service with Kenneth nearly five years before, following his own knighting in Corwyn, the young knight had been the boys riding master and constant companion when Kenneth was otherwise occupiedan arrangement that seemed to please all concerned.
Llion nodded agreement, but he did not take his eyes from his young charge as the boy circled around to return to the start of the run. Aye, he is, my lordthough Ive learned not to be surprised at his knack with animals. The true test will be whether his accuracy holds for ten runs. These are smaller rings than weve been using up at Culdi. Ill need to remedy that.”
Kenneth said nothing, only hiking himself up onto the fence rail with Llion to watch as a squire set a new ring and the next boy began his run. Airey Redfearn and his twin, Prys, were several years older than Alaric, already official pages at court, and had six rings each, though the former had also missed two rings. One more miss would put Master Airey out of the competition.
Llion, Llion!” came a young and urgent voice from Llions other side, as a boy in the sky-blue and silver of the Duchy of Cassan pelted up behind them and scrambled onto the rail between the two adults. What did I miss? How many has Alaric got? Do you think hell take all ten rings? Oh, hello, Uncle Kenneth.”
Hello, Duncan.”
The tousle-headed boy who snuggled into the curve of Kenneths arm was only a few months younger than Alaric: Duncan McLain, the younger grandson of Andrew Duke of Cassan, whose sister had been Kenneths mother. He was also Alarics favorite cousin.
In answer to your most pressing question,” Llion said, chuckling, he has seven, andoh, dear!” he murmured, as Airey Redfearn not only missed his third ring but tumbled from the saddle as his pony jinked and bucked at the end of the run. Well, thats young Airey done for the day.”
Ow, bad luck!” Duncan said. That pony is nasty! Airey is much better than that!”
Aye, he usually is,” Llion agreed. Lets see how Alaric does on his next run. Hes next after Ciarán MacRae.”
Is Ciarán any good?” Kenneth asked, just as an older page with a shock of bright red hair shot from the start and neatly took his next ring. Well, answering my own question, obviously he is.”
I dont think he has any misses yet,” Llion replied.
Hes nice, too,” Duncan chimed in. Look! Alaric is lining up for another go.”
All of them fell silent as a new ring was set and a senior squire signaled ready. With a nod, Alaric collected the shaggy mountain pony and started his next runand snared the ring smartly. As the lance lifted, they could see the new ring glinting in the sun as it slithered down the shaft to stack atop the first seven. Young Duncan let out a delighted whoop and waved energetically as his cousin pulled up at the end of the run and glanced back in their direction, flashing a gap-toothed grin. Atop a rail on the opposite side of the ring run, a dark-haired older boy in Haldane pages livery looked decidedly less pleased.
Hah, Cornelius Seaton is soooo jealous!” Duncan muttered under his breath.
Kenneth refrained from comment, but he could sense Llion considering a fitting response. Both were well aware that the said Seaton scion, regarded as one of the more promising of Duke Richards latest crop of pages, had been unceremoniously dumped from his pony on his very first run at the rings.
Is it charitable, do you think, to take delight in anothers misfortune?” Llion asked after a beat.
He hates Alaric,” Duncan said stubbornly, lower lip outthrust. He does everything he can to make Alaric look bad.”
Llion merely slipped an arm around the younger boy in sympathy, but Kenneth allowed himself a tiny grimace, well aware of the long-standing antipathy between the two youngstersand its cause. Though Corneliuss father, Sir Errol Seaton, was regarded as a decent enough man, and recently had been appointed to the crown council, his mother was a sister of the powerful Bishop of Nyford, Oliver de Nore, who had made a career of persecuting Deryni. Their youngest brother had been the disgraced priest Septimus de Nore, executed on the testimony of Kenneths late wife, for his part in the rape and murder of a child. Kenneth had assisted in the investigation of the crime, and had no doubt that the testimony had been honest, but he could understand the familys resentment. Still, Alaric could not help being his Deryni mothers son. . . .
I hope he falls off the fence!” Duncan muttered darkly, folding his arms across his chest and glaring at the offender.
Who, Cornelius?” Llion said mildly, as Kenneth glanced down at the sulking Duncan. I should think it would be sufficient to hope that he eventually reaps what he sowsas shall we all.” He reached up to gently tousle Duncans sun-kissed brown hair. But in answer to your previous question, I think Alaric shall, indeed, take many more rings, if he continues to ride as he has thus far. Do you intend to ride again?”
Duncan ducked his head sheepishly. I cant win,” he said glumly. I missed the ring on my fifth run.”
Ah, but winning is not the only point of this exercise,” Llion countered. If you dont practice, you cannot improve. Your cousin was not always as skilled as he appears today; nor will he always ride the perfect set. And it isnt even always up to the skill of the rider. Ponies can stumble, or act upas yon Cornelius has cause to know very well. Hes actually quite a good rider.”
Duncan wrinkled his nose in distaste, but also nodded grudging agreement. I suppose,” he said, then glanced up winningly at both adults. I wonder if the list master would let me continue. After all, I didnt fall offI only missed a ring. Youre allowed to miss three before youre out.”
Which means that you could still score nine, if you dont miss any more,” Llion agreed.
And if I dont fall off!” Duncan retorted, rolling his eyes, though he was climbing down from the fence rail as he said it.
You wont fall off!” Llion called after the boy as he took off toward the ring lists.
Kenneth set a comradely hand on Llions shoulder as they watched Duncan disappear amid the milling pages and ponies at the far end of the lists, smiling as the younger man turned to glance at him.
He wont fall off, my lord,” Llion said somewhat defensively. His seat is as good as Alarics, and the pony is rock steady.”
I know that,” Kenneth replied, giving the others shoulder a reassuring squeeze. I was simply appreciating your skill with children. You need to be a father, Llion.”
The young knight looked momentarily startled, then a trifle bashful. One day, perhaps I shall, my lord. I do enjoy children. But Im young yet, and my first duty is to you, and to your son. There will be time enough for a wife and children of my own when Alaric is farther along in his training.”
Loyally spoken,” Kenneth agreed. But do keep in mind that the two are not mutually exclusive.”
No, my lord, but right now, I think it more important to help ensure that your son survives to adulthoodand that the king survives.”
Kenneth nodded, glancing over to where the king was readying for his next joust, conferring with his two uncles. Yes, that is the challenge, isnt it?” he murmured under his breath.
The two returned their attention to the milling youngsters nearer the start of the ring run, where Duncan had just taken a ring, to the delight of Alaric, who punched his lance into the air in approval. Then they watched as squires set up a new ring while Alaric lined up for his run. Thus far, he was the only one in the youngest age group to ride a perfect setand as Kenneth and Llion watched, Alaric took his eighth ring.
Good lad,” Llion murmured.
Back at the senior lists beyond, the king was preparing to ride a pas à barrière against Sir Jamyl Arilan, under the keen scrutiny of Duke Richard and Prince Ronan, his cousin. Earlier in the afternoon, Brion had unhorsed Ronan, but Jamyl was far more experienced at the pas. On this sultry June afternoon, with the major competitions finished and their prizes given, the crowd was thinning, but many had stayed to watch the new royal knights performancesave for Kenneth and Llion, whose attention was divided between him and Kenneths son. The boys runs were closer together now, as other contenders were eliminated.
Steady, lad . . . ,” Llion breathed, all but holding his breathand then exhaled as Alaric took another ring.
Good!” Kenneth said, lifting a hand to wave as his son turned to watch the squires position a new ring and saw him. Grinning, the boy saluted with his ring-laden lance, then quickly returned his attention to lining up for the next run. What was that, eight, nine?”
This will be the tenth, my lord,” Llion replied, not taking his eyes from his young charge as Alaric gigged his mount, starting forward, and the tip of his lance dropped toward the target. No misses, thus farand that is ten! Well done!” he called in a louder voice, lifting a clenched fist in salute as a patter of applause also acknowledged the performancemostly from young girls and even the kings sisters, Kenneth noted. But then, Alaric was a very attractive boy, with his silver-gilt hair and pale eyes.
Well done, indeed,” Kenneth agreed. Thats an excellent showing. Have any of the others done as well?”
Not in this youngest age group, or even the next older,” Llion replied. He jutted his chin in the direction of the glowering Cornelius, who had jumped down from his fence-rail perch and was stomping off to join the other pages. Some of the others are none too happy, of courseespecially that one. Ive seen a few of the oldest pages ride very well and take lots of rings, as one might expectsome of those about ready to move up to squirebut I wasnt able to keep track of exact numbers. Still and all, this has been quite an extraordinary achievement for a lad who technically isnt even a page yet.”
Well, Duke Andrew means to make him one at Michaelmas, when he turns eight,” Kenneth said. Weve already discussed it, and Alaric is ready. The king is eager to have him at court, of course, but even he agrees that Alaric is probably better off learning the basics away from court.”
Aye, away from the likes of yon Cornelius and his ilk,” Llion muttered fiercely.
Kenneth sighed, but in resignation. Unfortunately, thats true,” he agreed. Once he has to fight his own battles, with boys his own age and even older, it wont be easy, being who and what he is. Pray God, we can shelter him until hes ready to do that.” He shrugged lightly. But look, the king and Jamyl are finally ready to go.”
Over in the adult lists, the king was, indeed, preparing to engage, saluting his opponent at the far end of the barrière and then releasing his mount to the charge in an explosion of thundering hooves. Jamyl was a few years older than the king, and had received part of his training at King Illanns court, where jousting was more common, but Brion easily held his own; neither scored more than a grazing hit of lance to shield.
Theyre testing one another,” Kenneth murmured under his breath, watching both men keenly.
Aye, this next run will be more in earnest,” Llion agreed.
Jamyl is good, though,” Kenneth said. Ive ridden against him.”
So have I,” Llion replied, and tasted dust more than once. But then, so did he,” he added with a grin.
As the pair wheeled for another run, Alaric came trotting up happily on his pony, his stack of ten rings borne proudly on his junior-sized lance.
Papa, did you see me?” the boy crowed. Did you see?”
I did, indeed, and you did very well,” Kenneth replied somewhat distractedly, reaching down to take the ponys reins. You mustnt gloat, though. Come up and sit with Llion and me. The king is going to have another go at Sir Jamyl.”
Again baring his gap-toothed grin, Alaric let Llion take his lance to lean it against the fence, then clambered up to sit in the curve of his fathers arm, between him and Llion. Kenneth could feel him tense as the pair began their second run, always concerned for the king. This time, Jamyls lance shattered against the kings shield with a force that sent the royal rider reeling precariously in the saddle, but Brion managed to keep both his seat and his weapon. As he drew up at the end of the barrière and turned, gentling his excited mount, he saluted with his lance, grinning.
Again, Jamyl!” he shouted. Youre going to have to do better than that. And I still think I can take you!”
You can try, Sire!” Jamyl replied, good-natured laughter in his voice as he trotted over to the sideline and discarded what was left of his lance, then selected another from a rack.
I shall do more than try!” Brion returned.
Again they took their places at either end of the barrière and prepared to engage, suddenly loosing to the charge, lances lowering as their horses gathered speed. This time, both lances shattered against shields, but it was Jamyl who reeled in his saddle, though he, too, quickly recovered his seat and pulled to a halt, tossing aside his shattered lance as he turned his mount.
Well struck, Sire!but perhaps we should call this a draw,” he called, raising the visor of his tournament helm. You very nearly had me that time! Give an old man a break!”
Brion guffawed and handed off the stub of his lance to his brother Nigel, who was squiring for him, then trotted his horse back to meet Jamyl midway, halting knee to knee with him to clasp forearms across the barrière.
Old man, indeed!” the king declared. But youd better not be saying that just to salve my pride.”
I think not, Nephew,” Duke Richard said, chuckling as he walked out to join the pair. It was well riddenboth of you. But your lady mother asks that this please be the last challenge of the day. You know how she dislikes the heat and dust. She would like to award the rest of the prizes, so that our guests can retire for a few hours to refresh themselves before the evenings festivities.”
Brion glanced toward the reviewing stand, where his mother and sisters were conferring with King Illann, then laughed and leaned toward Jamyl conspiratorially. What she means is, she doesnt want her hall polluted by a bunch of sweaty, smelly men whove been in armor all afternoon.”
Can you blame her?” Jamyl replied, grinning.
No, but I really wanted to trounce you, Jamyl,” Brion responded, turning beseeching eyes on his uncle. Can we not ride one more pass, Uncle? Please?”
Only if you wish to incur the resentment of an exasperated queen,” Richard replied. Be content with a draw, as Sir Jamyl suggests. Either of you could do far worse. Part as equals, knight to knight.”
For a moment, Brion looked like he might continue to protest, but then he quirked a reluctant smile and pulled off his helm, handing it down to Richard.
Oh, very well. I accept the draw.” He pulled off his gauntlets and tossed them into the helm Richard offered up. And I suppose theres an element of grace encompassed in the knightly vows I made today. Something about courtesy to ladies, as I recall. I daresay that queens fall in that category, and especially ones mother.”
He turned in the saddle to glance back at the reviewing stand and, as his mother rose, raised a hand in salute and then brought it to his breast and bowed over it. Duke Richard was smiling as he and Nigel led the kings horse over to the sidelines for Brion to dismount.
Well, thats settled happily enough,” Kenneth said, handing the ponys reins to Llion. Or maybe not.”
Across the yard behind them, his attention had been caught by a cloaked, dark-clad figure sitting motionless astride a coal-black RKassan steed with bardings as black as his masters garb. The lower part of his face was obscured by the veil of a black headdress worn in the desert manner, but the eyes were a piercing blue above the swath of black.
Llion, why dont you take Alaric over to the watering trough to clean up a bit? Theyll be calling the pages for the prize giving soon.” Not taking his eyes from the newcomer, he plucked Alaric from the fence rail and set him on his feet. Better collect your rings, son, and then go with Llion. Ill join you directly.”
He did not wait to see whether the pair obeyed him; only grabbed the reins of his waiting mount and swung up, the horse already moving as he settled into the saddle. He could sense curious eyes shifting in his direction as he set off briskly across the mostly empty field, obviously headed toward the mysterious black-clad rider, who did not move from his place. As he drew abreast of the man, halting stirrup to stirrup, the black-swathed head inclined in greeting.
Kenneth.”
Chapter 3
Because thou hast been my help, therefore in the shadow of thy wings will I rejoice.”
PSALMS 63:7
WHAT are you doing here?” Kenneth whispered, his gaze flicking warily around them. Can they see you?”
The black-clad man lifted one hand to pull down the veil from the lower part of his face. As he did so, Kenneth caught the flash of a dark tattoo at the inner wrist, of a small, equal-armed cross.
They can now,” the man said softly, a faint smile moving in the close-clipped dark beard. I shouldnt want your companions to think you addled, talking to thin air. Ive come to pay my respects to Gwynedds new premier knightand perhaps cross lances with him, though I fear I may have arrived too late for that. Please ask if he will meet me in the center of the field, so I may offer the congratulations of my Order. Beyond that, the others need not know who I am.”
You seem very certain hell agree,” Kenneth muttered, though he found himself already backing his mount to turn and head in the direction of the king. Instructions from Sir Sé Trelawney were not easy to ignoreand in all fairness, the Deryni knight had always been an unfailing friend to Gwynedd and its royal line, and to the kin of Kenneths late wife. Most recently, at least so far as Kenneth was aware, Sé had made an appearance at Brions coronation, apparently seen by only a very few, and then had held brief but intense private converse with the new king later that evening.
Now Sé had returned, this time in view of the whole court, with yet another mysterious mission regarding Gwynedds king. For a Knight of the Anvil to make an appearance in the West was regarded as a singular honor, given the near-legendary prestige of the Order, at least in more eastern climes. During the reign of King Bearand Haldane, Anviler knights and members of the Order of St. Michael had held back Moorish incursions and policed the sea lanes against marauding pirates; and later, they were said to have given refuge to fugitive Michaelines after the suppression of that order, some of whom had been Deryni. No one knew how many of the present Anviler order might be Deryni, but the presence of any foreign Deryni in Gwynedd would always be cause for concern, if it became known.
Which made Kenneths next task all the more delicate. The king knew that Sé was Deryni, but his father had not known; and the Sé Trelawney of today was not the Sé Trelawney knighted by Donal Haldane some sixteen years before. Complicating matters was the presence of Duke Richard and the kings younger brother, Nigel, standing nearbyand Jamyl Arilan, sitting his horse just behind the king. Though Kenneth had learned that Jamyl was Deryni (though he was forbidden to speak of it), he doubted anyone else at court knew, even Brion. And he did not know whether Jamyl was aware of Sé Trelawney.
Kenneth, youre too late,” Brion said good-naturedly, still a-horse as he tugged at the buckle of a vambrace. Uncle Richard tells me I must bow to the wishes of the ladies. A pity, because Id hoped you and I might cross lances today.”
You may wish to reconsider, Sire,” Kenneth murmured, with a nod of acknowledgment to Duke Richard. Yon black knight wishes to convey his respects, and hopes that the newly knighted Sir Brion Haldane might consent to meet him on the field of honor.”
He jutted his chin in the direction of Sé, who had tucked the veil of his headdress back into place as Kenneth crossed the field, once again obscuring his lower face, and now was donning the helmet previously hung at his saddlebow. Both the king and Richard gave the newcomer careful scrutiny, the latter with something more akin to suspicion, for the riders attire suggested origins far to the east, perhaps from the lands of Gwynedds enemies. Jamyl, too, looked keenly interested.
Who is he?” Richard demanded, bristling slightly. He looks Torenthi.”
Shaking his head, Kenneth smiled and leaned his elbows easily on his high pommel, beginning to enjoy the exchange. He is not Torenthi,” he replied, turning his gaze to Brion. He is a friend, I assure you. Your father gave him the accolade, though he is no longer in service to Gwynedd.”
To whom is he in service, then?” Jamyl interjected, unable to contain himself any longer.
Not to any enemy of ours,” Kenneth assured him. His service is to God, if you will. He is a Knight of the Order of the Anvil. But he prefers that his more particular identity not be made public. The king knows him.”
Brion had begun nodding as Kenneth spoke, obviously making the connection, and turned his grey gaze on his uncle.
Yes, I do know him, Uncle,” he said quietly. Pray, go to my lady mother and beg her indulgence for one last bout. For I think I owe much to this man.”
But”
Just do as I say!” Brion retorted, the steel of command in his voice. And Jamyl, make certain that no one interferes. No one! Nigel, Ill have my helm and gauntlets back.” He retrieved the gauntlets from the helm that Nigel timidly offered up, then handed the helm across to Kenneth. Ride with me.”
He pulled on the gauntlets as they slowly made their way toward the center of the field, never taking his eyes from the now-helmeted rider in black, who had tossed his cloak back on his shoulders and was selecting a white-painted tournament lance from a rack tended by a nervous-looking squire. A white belt gleamed against the black of boiled leather tournament armor, and a blank shield now adorned his left arm, borrowed for the occasion.
All around them, spectators were congregating along the sides of the field. The queen had risen and moved to the front of the royal pavilion, to stand anxiously with one hand on Duke Richards arm. King Illann and Prince Ronan stood uncertainly to her other side, quietly conferring. Across the field, nearer the junior lists, Jared had pulled Llion to one side by the bicep and clearly was interrogating him. Llion, in turn, had both hands set firmly on young Alarics shoulders, and was shaking his head.
All this Kenneth noted, the while watching Brion sidelong as the two of them rode out to meet the rider in black. All around them, a hush of anticipation was settling over the field. It was not uncommon for newly fledged knights to accept challenges in honor of their coming of age as warriorsBrion had been doing it all afternoonbut clearly, this challenger was new come to the field, and unknown to virtually everyone save Kenneth and, apparently, the king. When the rider had come within a few horse lengths of the king, he halted and slowly dipped his lance in salute, letting its tip rest lightly on the ground.
Hail, Brion of Gwynedd,” he said quietly, blue eyes ablaze within the shadows of his helm. I offer you the reverence accorded a king, but my business today is with Sir Brion Haldane. Will he honor me with a pas à barrière?”
You . . .” the king whispered wonderingly. You were at my coronation.”
And told you then that I should be there for you, when you have need. Today your need is to demonstrate that you are not afraid to face a seasoned warrior in battle. Your men are watching. . . .”
He jutted his chin toward the outer boundaries of the tourney field, where the elite of Gwynedds fighting men were gathering along the rails: battle-hardened veterans and those newly belted, and also the squires and pages, Gwynedds future knights.
Shall we?” Sé said softly.
With a glance at Kenneth, the king nodded gravely. Nodding in return, his opponent lifted his lance and wheeled to head for the far end of the barrière along which the two would ride. Kenneth accompanied the king to the opposite end and dismounted, giving his mount to Nigel and holding the head of the kings horse while Brion selected a lance.
I know hes a Knight of the Anvil,” Brion said quietly, staring down the barrière as Kenneth helped him seat the lance. Anything I should know about their jousting strategy?”
Kenneth only shook his head and chuckled as he reached out to adjust a stirrup buckle. Nothing I could tell you, my prince. They spend hours every day, honing their fighting skills. He will probably trounce you right royallywhich is as it should be, on this, your first day as a newly dubbed knight. But he wont humiliate you. What he does, he will do for your own good, to remind you how much you still have to learn.”
I already know that,” Brion muttered under his breath.
He bent helm to lance far enough to tap the visor into place, then let Kenneth lead his mount into position, to the right of his end of thebarrière. At the far end, his opponent sat statue still, white-painted lance at rest in one gloved hand, stark against his black raiment.
Heart pounding as if it were he, about to face Sé Trelawney, Kenneth moved back a few paces, easing toward the sidelines with Nigel. He had no doubt that Brion would be taught an important lesson today, but the means had yet to be shown. What he did know was that Deryni did not come much more puissant than Sir Sé Trelawney, especially when honed by the rigorous training of the Equites Incudis. Could the less experienced king take a pass from the Anviler knight? That remained to be seen.
The two eyed one another for several long seconds, holding their increasingly fractious mounts at either end of the barrière, until suddenly, as if by unspoken command, both loosed their steeds in the same instant and came thundering down their respective lanes, lances dropping between horses necks and shields. The weapons were especially designed for tournament use, to break away on impactand did, both of them shattering halfway along their lengths as blunted tips struck squarely against shields with a tremendous crash of wood against metal.
Gasps reverberated amongst the onlookers, and several men started onto the field, but it immediately became clear that both riders were still seated. Duke Richard had moved with the others, but pulled himself up and signaled the others to pull back, for the king was grinning as he pulled up his mount at the far end of the barrière and saluted his opponent with what was left of his lance.
Again!” he shouted, casting the shattered weapon aside and calling for a fresh one, which a squire was already running to provide. When his opponent saw what the king intended, he, too, took up a fresh lance and rode to his end of the barrière.
The outcome of the second run was not so evenly decided. Though both men started well, horses running strong and true, the blunted tip of Brions lance wavered just at the last instant, striking off center and skittering off the blank shield and over Sés shoulder. Sés lance hit more squarely, shattering against Brions shield with such force that the king reeled in the saddle, losing a stirrup, and only managed to stay a-horse by throwing his lance aside.
Sé, seeing this, immediately circled tight and urged his mount into a breathtaking leap up and over the barrière, to crowd hard against Brions mount while he menaced the weaponless king with the jagged remnant of his own lance.
Have a care, Sir Brion!” he said sharply. In real battle, this could have been a more deadly weapon, in the hands of a real enemy, and you might well be dead! A tournament is practice for real combat! Never throw away your weapon while an opponent remains armed!”
With that, he cast the lance stub aside and backed off.
Now, shall we give it one more try?” he said lightly, before turning to trot back toward his end of the barrière.
Shocked almost mute by his opponents horsemanship, and how quickly Sé had pressed his advantage, Brion managed to gasp out a shaken, Very well,” and turned his mount to return to Kenneth.
How did he do that?” he muttered under his breath, as Kenneth put another lance into his hand. Do you think he used magic?”
You know he did not, my prince,” Kenneth said sharply. What he has done is to share some of his experience with you. Gentlemen may play at war games, and even go to war, but in true battle, it is hard men who stay alive. You use whatever weapon is at hand. Remember that.”
Believe me, I am not apt to forget it,” Brion said, adjusting his grip on the lance as he moved into position for the final run.
This time, as both men thundered straight and true along either side of the barrière, Sés lance again shattered against the kings shield with jarring force. Brions lance also struck squarely, but instead of breaking away as intended, it bowed in the instant of impact and then skittered over the top of the shield to graze the left side of Sés helm, its hand guard walloping the faceplate with enough force to jar the black knight from his mount and wrench the lance from Brions hand as Sé fell. Only narrowly did Brion avoid tripping up his own mount as they scrambled clear of the tumbling lance.
Amazingly, Sé managed to land on his feet, shield still on his arm and still clutching what remained of his lance. He brandished it like a sword as the king came around tight, working to control his mount. In that same, heart-pounding moment, as a collective gasp rippled among the spectators, Sé summoned his own mount with a shrill whistle and, as it galloped toward him, discarded his broken weapon and vaulted back into the saddle. Without pause, he then doubled back sharply, still at the gallop as he bent low to retrieve the lance-stub from the dust.
By then, Brion was pulling up in confusion, uncertain as Sé set his mount back on its haunches in a flurry of dust and gave the king ironic salute with a flourish of the broken weapon before casting it aside. As his horse settled, abruptly as still as a statue, he let fall his borrowed shield, then dropped his reins to pull off his helm, allowing his mount to move a few steps closer to the king as he hooked the helms chin strap to his pommel.
Well ridden, my lord,” he said, as he gathered up his reins. And in all, I think we both have learned useful lessons today.” He glanced around at the debris of shattered lances, then returned his gaze to the king.
I will share with you this caution, however. It would be prudent to have a word with those who craft your tournament and practice weapons. Your lance ought to have broken away as mine did. I should hate to see some worthy squire or page in your service take serious injury or death from such a fault.”
Speechless, Brion could only nod, sweeping off his helmet with both hands. Kenneth had come running to his side by then, Nigel trotting wide-eyed behind him, and Brion handed off the helmet to Kenneth, who passed it on to Nigel.
But I salute you, Sir Brion of Gwynedd,” Sé said then, laying his right hand flat over his heart and bowing over it, and I wish you many years of victory in battle. Until next time, may God hold you in the hollow of His hand.”
With that, he wheeled and galloped from the field, cutting between groups of men who only gazed after him with mouths agape, too stunned even to think of trying to impede him.
What just happened?” Brion said low to Kenneth, a slightly dazed look on his face as Kenneth laid a hand on the kings bridle.
I believenot to put too fine a point on itthat you were just put in your place, my prince,” Kenneth said with a strained smile. But I suggest that, if you wish to avoid awkward questions, you make little of this when we return to the dais. You comported yourself well against a very seasoned knight. Make no acknowledgment of anything more, lest you compromise his usefulness.” He glanced back at the junior lists, and then at the royal pavilion.
But Iahbelieve we still have prizes to award,” he said, setting a hand on young Nigels shoulder and indicating that he should go on ahead. A goodly number of young men and boys are eagerly waiting to have the king recognize their accomplishments today. Shall we go back?”
Chapter 4
A wise son maketh a glad father . . .”
PROVERBS 15:20
AS Kenneth took the head of the kings horse and began leading it slowly back to the royal pavilion, Brion pushed back his arming cap and started pulling off his gauntlets, his mood subdued and thoughtful. Duke Richard came out to meet the pair as they approached the royal pavilion, but the king brushed off his demands for an explanation and merely assured him they would talk later.
Ive taken no harm,” he assured his uncle in a low voice, as he swung down from his mount and handed his gauntlets to Kenneth. And I do apologize for the delay. Please gather the squires and pages for their prize giving.”
But, who was he?” Richard insisted.
A friend of Gwynedd, Uncle. A Knight of the Anvil. Beyond that, you will have to ask him. Now, please see to the squires and pages.”
More members of his family and immediate entourage tried to press him for details as he and Kenneth moved into the royal pavilion, but again he brushed them off, merely reiterating that he was unharmed, and wished to proceed with the conclusion of the afternoons activities. Kenneth cleared a path as the two of them worked their way to the rear of the pavilion, where a body squire was waiting with towels and a basin of clean water.
Pulling off his arming cap, Brion plunged his head into the water and scrubbed vigorously at face and neck and hands, then toweled off and slicked back his hair before donning a gold circlet. Richard, meanwhile, had begun gathering the squires and pages as requested.
Kenneth stayed by the kings side as they returned to the front of the pavilion, where Brion took his place in the center chair between his mother and King Illann. Politely but firmly, he declined to comment on what had just transpired on the field. Brions younger sisters, Princesses Xenia and Silke, settled onto stools at their mothers feet, raven hair glistening in the sunlight like blackbirds wings, with several ladies-in-waiting ranged to either side. Moving to his customary place behind the chairs, Kenneth politely fended off all questions.
It is not for me to say,” was all the comment he would make, good-natured but firm, when pressed for information about the kings mysterious opponent.
At Duke Richards summons, all the squires and pages in the competition began gathering in front of the dais, many of them with fathers or other male relatives trailing along to gather at the edges. Among them Kenneth noted the glowering presence of Sir Errol Seaton, whose son Cornelius had turned in a less than stellar performance.
Briskly Richard began moving among the boys, rapidly sorting them into some semblance of order, by age. Most of them had varying numbers of rings looped over an arm: booty from the competition. Conversation immediately ceased as a herald thumped on the floor of the dais with his staff of office and called for attention.
Pray, attend the words of the king.”
Brion smiled and sat forward, glancing to Duke Richard, who was standing among the pages. Most of them wore Haldane pages livery and looked much older than Alaric and Duncan, who stood together with Llion in their house livery of Corwyn and Kierney. A few were senior pages, nearly ready for squiring. The dozen or so squires were grouped to one side, including Duncans brother Kevin, but some of the squires clearly were no longer children.
I see that were starting with the pages,” the king said easily, looking over the sea of Haldane crimson. Uncle, I understand that these young gentlemen competed at the rings.”
They did, my Liege,” Richard said formally, still annoyed at his nephews refusal to identify his opponent. The rings were a handspan wide, fixed so that they would not rotate during a run,” he added, for the benefit of King Illann and Prince Ronan. Contestants were given ten runs in which to take as many rings as they could, but a fall disqualified from further participation, as did three consecutive passes without taking a ring.”
A worthy practice for future knights,” Brion said with a droll nod, glancing at his royal guests. As you know, the exercise teaches hand and eye coordination, as well as horsemanship. Mind you, the rings will be smaller when you compete as squires, lads,” he reminded the assembled boys, and as some of you found out the hard way, its more difficult than it looks. How many of you were unhorsed during the competition? All those who fell off, please move over by Duke Richard.”
Fully a third of the boys moved sheepishly to the dukes side, Cornelius Seaton among them, though many of them bore at least a few rings. Cornelius had none, and looked none too happy about it. Brion merely raised an eyebrow, shaking his head lightly as he pursed his lips and scanned them.
Well, I see that some of you at least managed to snag a ring or two before tasting dust. Thats commendable, but I know that all of you can do better in the future. It isnt that you will never fall off your horsesmy uncle will tell you how often I used to land on my backside when I was first beginning my trainingand even the best rider gets dumped occasionally. Today I learned that some riders, like my last noble opponent, even manage to land on their feet, and then vault back into the saddle. Uncle, you must learn how that is doneand then begin to teach it!”
Duke Richard only bowed slightly in agreement, lips tight-pressed.
In any case, with practice, all of us will improve,” the king went on. And remember that it is also important to learn how to fall off your horse and not injure yourself.” His grey eyes held a twinkle as they swept his listeners. Happily, all of you seem to have survivedthat lesson, at least for today.”
He smiled, then turned his attention to the rest of the pages. Now, any of you who managed to stay on your horse but missed taking any rings, please step forward.”
Two of the younger boys shuffled clear of the others, looking hangdog.
Well.” Brion looked askance at the pair. I suppose that boys who can ride but cant hit a target might serve as couriers, or perhaps carry banners.” He drew a breath and let it out with a dramatic sigh. But since you aspire to be knights one day, lads, your use of weaponswill improve.” He made a shooing motion in the direction of the first group. Join the ones who cant ride. All of you still have much to learn.”
With that, he turned his attention to the remaining pages, of which there were nearly a dozen.
Very good. I see that the rest of you all managed to stay mounted and take at least a few rings. Move closer now, right up to the dais.”
Alaric shuffled forward with the rest, clutching his rings close to his body. Duncan stayed close beside him. Though both had known Brion Haldane since birth, viewing him almost as an elder brother or uncle, it was different standing before the king.
Now, all of you raise your left arms and show me your rings.” The royal gaze swept the quickly upraised arms. I see. Now, if you have five or less, lower your arm and take three steps back.”
Two boys stepped back.
Six or less.”
Airey Redfearn and another boy retreated.
Brion surveyed the rest of those standing with upraised arms, then pointed to a boy standing near Alaric, who stood a head taller than he. Ciarán MacRae, how many rings do you have?”
Eight, my lord,” the boy said brightly.
Eight. Thats very good, but I see boys with more than that.” He glanced at the others. Anyone with eight or less, step back.”
Ciarán and two more stepped back, including Duncan, and several of them cast interested glances at the stack of rings on Alarics arm. But piled together, it was hard to judge how many there really were.
Paget Sullivan, how many have you got?” Brion asked the oldest of the remaining boys, a tall twelve-year-old.
Ten, Sire,” the lad replied.
Ten? Excellent work! And you, Aean Morrisey?”
Only nine, Your Grace,” the boy admitted.
Ah, but nine is still very, very good. Well done, Aean. And young Alaric Morgan? It looks like you have quite a stack there. How many?”
Ten, Sire,” Alaric said confidently.
Ten?” The king glanced over his shoulder at Kenneth and raised an eyebrow. He really took ten? How old is he, Kenneth? He isnt even officially a page yet, is he?”
No, my princebut he will be eight at Michaelmas. Earl Jared and I are training himand Sir Llion.” He smiled as he jutted his chin toward Llion, standing with Duncan and trying to be invisible.
Brion shook his head, half in disbelief, then glanced at his mother, who had come to her feet and was holding a laurel wreath, looking faintly disapproving. Princess Xenia held a small silver cup.
Interesting. Very well, Im giving the prize to Paget Sullivan, because he was the best of the pages competing, with ten rings. Alaric, you arent yet an official page, so Im disqualifying you from the official competition. Paget, come and get your prize.”
Alaric looked astonished and a little affronted, but after a glance at his father, he simply lowered his arm to cradle his rings and stepped back so that Paget could approach the queen.
Congratulations, Master Paget,” Richeldis murmured, setting the wreath atop his curls and then handing him the cup. He, in turn, bowed and kissed her hand.
Thank you, Your Majesty.”
Thank you, Master Paget. I look forward to following your career.”
Paget adjusted the wreath as he rejoined the other pages, grinning as he turned the cup in his hands. Alaric started to head back to Llion as the rest of the pages began to disperse, but at the sound of the king clearing his throat, all of them stopped and turned.
Did I give anyone permission to retire?” Brion asked sternly.
A dozen pairs of eyes darted back to the king, and several boys murmured, No, Sire.”
I didnt think I had. Alaric Morgan, come back up here, please. And young Duncan McLain, as well. And Earl Jared, where are you? And Earl Kenneth.”
Wide-eyed, Alaric went forward, bowed, and looked around bewilderedly as his father, Duncan, and Jared joined him. Brion was conferring with one of his aides as they did so, and turned back to them with something in his hand.
Alaric, I said that you were disqualified from the official pages competition,” Brion said, but your performance certainly merits recognition.” He crouched down to beckon both boys closer. Let me see those ten rings.”
Dutifully, Alaric held out his arm and watched while Brion counted.
Good Lord, there really are ten. And Duncan, how many have you got? Youre even younger than Alaric, arent you?”
Yes, Sire,” Duncan whispered, showing the king seven rings.
How old are you?”
Seven, Sire. And a half.”
And you took seven rings? I think there were only four or five others who did that well, and everyone except Alaric is much older than you are. Both of you did very well.” He put a silver coin in Duncans hand and a gold one in Alarics. Thank you, gentlemen. I look forward to the day when you wear my livery. Jared, Kenneth,” he got to his feet and nodded to both men, well done.”
Kenneth gestured toward Llion, standing farther back in the assembly. Sir Llion Farquahar deserves most of the credit, Sire. He is responsible for much of the day-to-day drill for these lads.”
Brion nodded toward Llion. I do beg your pardon, Sir Llion. My thanks to you as well. Well done.”
Llion bowed to acknowledge the compliment, and the king signaled that the fathers and sons might withdraw.
Well have the squires up here next,” Duke Richard said, as the pages retreated and the squires began to assemble, Kevin among them. Rather than rings, they jousted at the quintain, and a few of them managed stay mounted and hit the shieldwhich is no mean feat when trying to avoid the swing of the sandbag. A few even splintered lances.” He winked at his nephew, his good humor apparently restored. Some of them did very well, my prince. In a few years, I have no doubt that some of them will have earned the accolade.”
I certainly should hope so,” Brion said with a snort.
Chapter 5
That thou mayst walk in the way of good men, and keep the paths of the righteous.”
PROVERBS 2:20
THE feast that night in the great hall was less in the nature of a further celebration than it was a hearty meal to replenish weary warriors after the exertions of the day, which had been hot and tiring. A contented if somewhat bruised King Brion presided informally from the high table, surrounded by members of his family and his dukes and earls, including Kenneth and Jared. He had also invited King Illann and Prince Ronan to sit at the kings table.
Also seated with the two earls were Jareds son Kevin, who had done well in the squires competitions, and half a dozen knights of their combined households, including Sir Llion and his counterpart for Earl Jareds household, Sir Tesselin of Harkness, who looked after Kevin and Duncan.
Women were few in the hall, for the knights attending from outside the city mostly had not brought along their wives or daughters, but one end of the high table was graced by the presence of the Dowager Queen Richeldis and her two daughters. In addition, Richeldiss brother Illann, for some years a widower, had finally decided to remarry, and had brought along his future queen to meet his sister and her family, though she had declined to attend the knighting ceremony or the afternoons tournament. The Countess Amielle sat demurely with the other royal ladies, rather than her intended, but she was a sultry, voluptuous beauty much younger than Illann, with dark eyes and masses of titian hair caught up in a netting of slender gold cords. While her manner in no way invited inappropriate attention, she had managed to turn the heads of not a few young and not so young men of the court. Kenneth had met the lady the day before, when the visitors arrived, but had found himself comparing her to his late wife.
I think I am quite content to remain a dour old widower,” he said to Jared, as he took his place at table with him and their other knights. However, there is no doubt that she will considerably adorn Illanns court.”
Not my type,” Jared said flatly. What about you, Llion?”
Llion shook his head, slightly amused. I think she may be trouble for Illann, once she is entrenched at Pwyllheli, my lord.”
You think so?” Jared cast a glance over his shoulder at the royal ladies, then back at his companions. You may be right. We shall hope not.”
They settled into their places as servers brought out the first course. Alaric and Duncan served their fathers at the beginning of the meal, bringing basins and ewers and towels for hand washing; but then, by virtue of their impressive performances in the afternoons ring jousting, they were allowed to take places at table and share in the meal. Wide-eyed and famished, they stuffed themselves on roasted beef, capon, stewed onions, and fresh-baked bread, along with well-watered ale, but after less than an hour both boys were visibly drooping. Duncan nearly nodded off into his trencher, saved only by a sharp kick from his elder brother, and Alaric was finding it ever more difficult to keep his eyes open. Their plight soon came to the notice of the adults.
Tesselin, why dont you and Llion take the boys up to bed?” Jared said after a speaking glance at Kenneth, gesturing with his cup of ale. Yes, Kevin, you may stay awhile longer,” he added, at his elder sons obvious objection.
Ill take them,” Llion said, rising. I confess Im tired myself, and Tesselin looks like hes enjoying himself. Lets go, lads.”
Neither of the younger boys put up any serious resistance, despite the unprecedented novelty of being allowed to eat with the grown-ups. By the time they had paid their respects to the king, Duncan was all but asleep on his feet, and Alarics yawns were becoming more and more difficult to suppress.
With Llion bringing up the rear, the two boys trudged up the turnpike stair and down several torch-lit corridors, going first to the quarters being shared by Earl Jared and his two sons. There Llion helped the younger of those sons strip off his belt and tunic and crawl into the big canopied bedasleep as soon as his head settled into the pillow. Llion smiled as he paused to pull off the boys boots and tuck a McLain plaid around him. Then he and Alaric made their way to the modest suite always reserved for Earl Kenneth and his immediate party when they were in residence at the capital.
Alaric paused just long enough to wash his face and hands, letting Llion pull off his boots and outer garments while he blearily checked in his belt pouch for the gold coin he had won at the tournament that afternoon. Then he crawled happily into the bed his father would later share with him. As he drifted off to sleep, he was briefly aware of Llion gathering up his discarded clothes and unrolling the pallet where he customarily slept at the foot of the bed.
SOME little while laterhe could not have said how much laterAlaric became abruptly aware that something vital in the room had changed. His eyes popped open to faint moonlight and awareness of an unmoving, black-clad form sitting right on the edge of the bed beside himnot Llion or his father or, indeed, anyone in his fathers household! His stunned first impression of a high-collared black robe suggested a priest, of which very few bore much goodwill toward a half-Deryni child.
Jolted fully awake between one heartbeat and the next, Alaric flung himself toward the far edge of the bed, scrambling for safety, and groped for the dagger that should have been beneath his pillow but wasnt. Frantic, he twisted to escape the hand that clamped onto the neck of his shirt and dragged him back, both his small hands locking around the powerful wrist. But even as he drew breath to scream for helpWhere was Llion?golden luminance flared around the mans head, far brighter than any moonlight, and he found himself ensorcelled in the gaze of a pair of jewel-bright blue eyes.
Do not cry out,” the man said softly, though the gentle tone belied the compulsion in that simple command. Relax.”
Despite his best efforts to the contrary, Alaric could feel his indrawn breath softly leaving his lungs, his body going limp, resistance draining away like water through a sieve.
Good lad!” came the whispered response, as a faint smile parted the close-clipped beard and mustache and the mans free hand reached out to briefly brush his brow, the Deryni aura dying away. Youre quite safe. We have actually met before, but you were only a baby then. At your baptism, your parents laid you in my arms before God and bade me serve as one of your godparents. Tis a vow I take most seriously.”
Alaric stared at the man, mouth agape, trying to take it all in, but he knew, without knowing how he knew, that the mans revelation had put to rest any remaining alarm, along with the last of his resistance. As he drew a deep, deliberate breath to marshal his wits, letting it out slowly as his mother had taught him, he opened his hands around the mans wrist and drew them apart in an exaggerated gesture of yielding. The man, in turn, released his handful of shirt, nodding as he briefly smoothed the crumpled linen.
I apologize for the somewhat unconventional introduction,” his visitor murmured, sitting back and reaching behind him briefly. I would have approached through your father, but this seemed more expeditious. And earlier this afternoon, I was somewhat occupied. This is yours, I think,” he added, and produced the dagger Alaric had been looking for, offering it hilt first across his forearm.
Who are you?” Alaric whispered, as he accepted the dagger and laid it aside. It was you who fought the king this afternoon, wasnt it? And where is my knight?” he added, suddenly remembering Llion. Does Sir Llion know youre here?”
The man smiled faintly and nodded. Excellent. A duke should always have concern for his men. Your Sir Llion is keeping watch in the other room. He has been instructed not to speak of me, so do not ask, for he may not answer. And yes, it was I who fought the king this afternoon.”
Alarics eyes widened at the implication, for the man clearly was Derynihe could sense the mans shields, now that he was fully awakebut curiosity was fast replacing whatever fear was left. Something about his Deryni visitor seemed oddly reassuring, almost . . . familiar. . . .
You said youre my godfather,” he said softly. But, who are you?”
You are to be the kings protector; I am your protector,” the man said, lifting both hands to show the inner wrists, and the ink-black crosses tattooed there, each hardly bigger than a mans thumbprint. My name is Sir Sé Trelawney. Perhaps your mother told you what these mean.”
All at once Alaric remembered a sunny afternoon in that long-ago last autumn before his mother died, watching her bent over the illuminated capital she was just finishing: the opening page of a book she had penned for his father, of poetry written by his sister Delphinewhat had been their last Christmas gift for him. Alyce de Corwyn had looked up and smiled as her firstborn came into the room, laying aside her brush and beckoning for him to come and sit beside her on the padded bench, for she was heavily pregnant with his sister Bronwyn.
Embracing him briefly, she had smoothed his hair and kissed him on the forehead, then bade him watch while she took up pen and a scrap of parchment and inked a tiny, equal-armed cross, exactly like the ones on the insides of both Sir Sés wrists.
Men who bear these marks are vowed Knights of the Anvil, she had told him, sworn before God to serve the Light. There is one such manhis name is Sir Sé Trelawneywhom you may trust with your life and your very soul, if he offers you assistance.
Youre aa Knight of the Anvil,” Alaric whispered. Mama said that I can trust you.”
Indeed, you can,” Sé replied, smiling faintly as he lowered his hands and briefly glanced away: an angle that enabled Alaric to glimpse the dark, silver-threaded hair sleeked back in a braided warriors knot. She was a remarkable woman, your motherlike a sister to me. We grew up togethershe and your Aunt Marie and your Uncle Ahern, who both sadly died before you were bornand your Uncle Jovett Chandos and I. After Marie died, Iwent away. But I promised your mother that I should always be there when she had need. When she died untimely, I made your father the same promiseand I make it to you, now: that so long as I have breath within me, I shall always be there for you, when you have need.”
Is that why youve come?” Alaric managed to whisper, unable to look away.
In part.” Sé gave him an inclination of his head. I came to see the king knightedbut I also watched you ride,” he added, smiling at the boys hopeful look. You did very well.”
I didnt see you,” Alaric retorted, almost challenging.
Sé chuckled. That is because I did not wish to be seen,” he said lightly. And in time, it may be that you shall acquire the same skill.
But other skills must come first. I have come to see whether some of those other skills perhaps can be awakened, to help you protect yourself while you take the time needed to grow up. This asks a great deal of you, I know. You do not yet have the years to learn all that you should knowand I do not know how much your mother was able to teach you before she passed. But you will be coming to the kings court in another year or two, away from your fathers protection. There will be those who will try to kill you before you can grow into the role intended for you.”
Alaric shivered a little, for he knew full well who some of those were, who would prefer to see him dead, but no one had ever phrased it quite that way beforethat people would try to kill him.
What must I do?” he whispered.
For now, simply allow me access to your mind,” Sé said softly. At the same time, Alaric felt a gentle probing at his shields, quickly withdrawn.
Good, you do have shields,” Sé went on. Quite good ones, actually. Fortunately, most of your enemies do not, for they are humanand Deryni enemies should be few, at least for now. But the strength of your shields means it is likely that you also have an awakening of at least the beginnings of other skills. To know for certainand to begin teaching you how to use themI must slip past those shields and probe deeper. And to do that without hurting you, I must have your help, and your complete trust.”
Wide-eyed, Alaric took a deep breath, then reached out to take Sés right hand, keeping his gaze fixed on Sés as he brought the Anvilers hand up to touch his foreheadfor that was how his mother had always begun their teaching sessions.
Do what you need to do,” he whispered, closing his eyes.
MEANWHILE, in the castle hall, the ladies and the kings uncles had retired for the night and many of the kings guests were beginning to take their leave, for the hour grew late. Nonetheless, at the kings invitation, most of the new knights created that day had joined him and Jamyl and Prince Ronan at the high table to drink increasingly exuberant toasts. Kenneth and Jared were part of the company, and had been finishing last cups of wine and thinking about leaving the younger men to more serious drinking when Kenneth saw the travel-worn man in Cassani livery paused in the doorway of the hall, scanning faces as he removed his cap. One look at the messengers expression told Kenneth that the news was not good.
Jared,” he murmured, setting a hand on his cousins arm and glancing pointedly in the direction of the doorway, one of your fathers men has just arrivedand on urgent business, by the look of him.”
Even as Jared and the king swiveled to look, Jared coming to his feet, the man spotted them and started in their direction, breaking into a trot to traverse the length of the hall.
Is it my father?” Jared demanded, as the man reached them and bowed over the cap he clutched to his breast, first to the king and then to Jared.
Aye, my lordbut he was yet alive when I left him three days ago,” the man added hopefully, though his lips tightened as he glanced at his dusty boots and twisted at the dusty cap. But he took a turn the day before that. He cannot speak or move on his right side. Your lady wife bids you return as soon as you may, for the surgeon does not think he will long endure in this state. I fear it is the end, my lord. Im very sorry. He is a good man.”
Jareds face had gone very still as the man spoke, but he clasped the mans shoulder distractedly as he turned to the king.
I must return to Cassan at once, Sire,” he murmured.
Of course you must.”
Prince Ronan, please make my apologies to your father and all his party.”
I shall,” Ronan agreed, and I daresay he will understand.”
Kenneth, will you ride with me?” Jared went on, already edging back toward his men, who also had risen with their lord. Sybaud, choose four men to ride with us. Kevin must come as welland perhaps Llion and the rest of the household knights could accompany Tesselin with the younger boys,” he added to Kenneth. Will you bring Xander and Trevor?”
Of course.” Kenneths nod to the pair set them on their feet. I must speak to Llion as well. Well assemble in the stable yard in half an hour.”
A few minutes later, having given orders to the men Jared had chosen to accompany them, Kenneth was slipping into the modest suite allotted to himself and Alaric. To his surprise, he found Llion sitting in a chair before the dark hearth, his gaze vague and unfocused. The young knight looked a little bewildered as he glanced up.
Llion?” Kenneth murmured. I expected you would be long asleep by now.”
The fault is mine,” said a low voice as Sé emerged from the shadows nearer the door that led into the sleeping chamber. I had business with my godson. I hope you do not mind.”
Kenneth started back slightly, surprised to find Sé here, then glanced at Llion, who seemed still unaware of Sés presence, and had started to get up.
I am always glad to see you,” Kenneth said tentatively, as Sé came to set a hand on Llions shoulder and the young knight subsided. What is this all about?”
I came to see the king knighted, as you knowand I may not stay longbut I also wished to see how the boy is progressing,” Sé replied. Some of his powers are stirring already. He yet lacks the focus to compel the truth, but that will come as his powers mature. In the meantime, I believe he will know, increasingly, when he is being lied to.”
Already?” Kenneth murmured, but it was not so much a question as a statement of confirmation. I hope youve stressed the need for discretion. That particular talent brought his mother little but trouble.”
Aye, but she used it in the kings service, in the cause of justice,” Sé pointed out. I have no doubt that she counted the risk well worth while.”
Kenneth fought down a lump in his throat and looked away, more than a little troubled. I know thatand I loved that she was willing to make that sacrifice. But Alaric is still so young. . . .”
He is young, but he has a strong instinct for self-preservation,” Sé pointed out, and I have reinforced that. He will not invite trouble. But reading the truth will be an increasingly valuable skill for him.”
I dont doubt that,” Kenneth replied, glancing back at Llion, oblivious near the door. What have you done to my knight?”
Sé smiled faintly. He will remember nothing of this visit, unless you wish him to do so, of course. Or if you prefer, I can leave him with knowledge of who I am, so that we need not go through this deception every time I come. In that case, I would also set compulsions that will keep him from speaking of any of thisthe way Alyce did with you, when the king came to Alarics Naming.”
Kenneth remembered the night welland the prohibition against speaking of it to outsiders had been gentle, as Alyce had been gentle. He had no doubt that the precaution had probably protected all of them who had been involved. She had looked so beautiful in the candlelight, surrounded by the glow of her magic. . . .
Yes, do that,” he murmured, turning half away. And thank you for what you are doing for her son, Sé.”
Your son as well,” Sé said, smiling faintly as he lifted his right hand to his heart and bowed slightly over it. Then he went to Llion and touched his forehead, briefly closing his eyes. When he turned back to Kenneth, he held out his hand.
God keep you safe, Kenneth,” he said softly, as their hands clasped. I think it best that he does not remember this visit, but he will be ready for the next.”
Grateful beyond speech, Kenneth let himself be drawn into the open doorway as Sé departed, watching as the Anviler knight merged with the shadows and disappeared. After gazing after him for a moment, Kenneth turned back into the room, where Llion had stirred and was moving about the outer chamber, tidying various pieces of equipment.
Llion, could I see you outside for a moment?” he said quietly, motioning with his chin.
With a look of question, Llion put aside a folded shirt and followed Kenneth into the corridor.
I must ride for Cassan tonight, with Jared,” Kenneth said in a low voice, after he had drawn the door closed. Duke Andrew has been taken ill, and Jared is likely to be duke far sooner than we had hoped.”
The young knights face fell. I am sorry to hear that, my lord,” he murmured. Duke Andrew is a good man. Shall I get the boy ready to travel?”
Not tonight,” Kenneth replied. Jared and I will leave shortly, with a small escort that can move fast. Ill take Xander and Trevor with meand well take Kevin with us; but Jared is leaving Duncan and Tesselin with you. He has asked that the two of you bring the boys with the rest of our party. Set the best pace you can, but remember that theyre only seven. With any luck, at least Jared and Kevin and I will arrive before Andrew passes.”
You think hes going to die?” Llion asked softly.
He has had a long, full life,” Kenneth replied, and you know his health has not been good, these past few years. I think this may well be his time. But it will be the end of an era.”
Llion crossed himself in silent agreement. God grant him a peaceful passing,” he murmured.
May He grant it, indeed.” Kenneth allowed himself a weary sigh. Ill change into something more suitable for hard riding, then say good-bye to Alaric. Id take him along, but seven is young for the kind of speed well be trying to make. You might check with Tesselin and Jareds men, see if you can give them a hand. You should make the best time you can, but you are allowed to stop for food and sleep along the way.”
Aye, my lord.”
Returning to the inner chamber, Kenneth moved as quietly as he could, changing his court attire for more serviceable riding leathers, sturdy boots, a light mail shirt. He was doing up his leather vambraces when he became aware that he was being watched. As he turned toward the bed, Alaric eased up on his elbows.
Whatre you doing, Papa?” he whispered.
Forcing a faint smile, Kenneth sat down on the edge of the bed beside his son. I must go back to Culdi with your Uncle Jared, lad.”
Now? In the middle of the night?”
Im afraid so. Uncle Andrew is very sick.”
The boy plumped back onto his pillow, looking away briefly. Hes going to die, isnt he?”
I suspect he is,” Kenneth admitted.
I dont want him to die.”
Well, neither do I. But we all have to die someday. And hes had a long, full life. Hes seen his son grow into a fine man, and watched his grandsons grow nearly to manhood. . . .”
He still shouldnt have to die.”
No, he shouldnt, and maybe he wont for a while yet. But if it is his time, Uncle Jared would like to see him one more time, to say good-bye. So Im going to go with him and Kevin, to help them get there fast.”
When will you be back?” Alaric wanted to know.
Kenneth shrugged. Difficult to say. But it really doesnt matter, because Llion and Tesselin are going to bring you and Duncanjust not quite as fast. Youll leave tomorrow, and probably get there several days after we do.”
Alaric perked up immediately. We get to go with Llion?”
Yes.”
Will it be an adventure?”
Hopefully, not too much of an adventure,” Kenneth said with a faint smile. You shall have a proper escort of household knights. If I thought there might be trouble, I wouldnt let them bring you.”
I shall need to ride a horse, Papa. My pony would be much too slow!”
I believe Llion is organizing that as we speak. Hell find you and Duncan some steady, reliable mounts. Your ponies can stay here, for now. Ill send someone for them later in the summer, maybe even in the autumn.”
You mean after Uncle Andrew is dead,” the boy said sadly, then sat up abruptly. May I go tell Duncan?”
No, you may not. Duncan and his da are having much the same conversation that you and I are having, except that its his grandfather theyre discussing, not my brother-in-law, and its Uncle Jareds father. Jared and I plan to be on our way very shortly, so you need to get your sleep. Today was a busy day, and tomorrow will be even busier.”
Can I at least watch you leave?”
Kenneth started to say no, but then relented and reached down to scoop up the boy in his arms and set him on the floor.
Just until we leave,” he agreed, and youre to do as Llion asks, once Ive left, as though his instructions came from me.”
Yes, Papa.”
Now, bring me my sword, so we can get down to the stable yard,” he instructed, with an affectionate swat to his sons backside.
Chapter 6
Now a thing was secretly brought to me . . .”
JOB 4:12
Alittle while later, when Earl Jared McLain and his elder son rode out of Rhemuth Castle, accompanied by Lord Kenneth Morgan and a small escort of their combined household knights, two kings and two princes were among those who gathered in the castle yard to bid them Godspeed, for Prince Ronan had gone to wake his father at the news. Atop the battlements above the gate, the young sons of Jared and Kenneth leaned out to wave farewell, watched over by Sir Llion Farquahar and his Kierney counterpart, Sir Tesselin of Harkness. Despite the late hour, news of Duke Andrews failing health had spread quickly, for the imminent passing of a duke had implications for all the Eleven Kingdoms. Accordingly, even the queen and her daughters and ladies had betaken themselves to the chapel royal to offer prayers for the stricken duke, and for the safety of those traveling to bid him farewell.
GIVEN the unexpected ending to the evening, it was well after midnight by the time the king and his guests retired and Sir Jamyl Arilan could safely set about his other dutiesduties not to the king but to a secret organization to which he was sworn by oaths far more binding than those he owed his sovereign. Ascending a spiral stair to an upper floor, he made his way quietly past the royal library and paused outside the door of a neighboring guest chamber to listen, setting his hand flat against the wood while his mind probed for a presence beyond.
When he had confirmed that the lone occupant was deeply asleep, he slid his hand down to the door latch and exerted power, breathing a faint sigh as the latch lifted with a soft snick. A moment he paused to listen again, lest the sound had been heard; then he slowly pushed the door open far enough to slip inside, closing it behind him and setting the latch back in place. Beyond, from the direction of the canopied bed, he could hear breathy snores.
He allowed himself a wordless prayer of thanks that his entry had not been detected, even as he tiptoed close enough to gently touch the sleeper on the brow, deepening the sleep and setting controls in case the sleeper should stir when he returned. He had performed this office often in the past, so that his late uncle and the even later Michon de Courcy might have safe access to the room and what it hidthe guest chamber was often in use when providing accommodation to visitorsbut this was the first time Jamyl had facilitated his own use of the room. The estimable Lord Michon had passed two years before, his absence still felt keenly among those Jamyl was on his way to meet; and Jamyls Uncle Seisyll had slipped away shortly after Twelfth Night, following several months of declining health. The pair had been senior among those who comprised the Camberian Council. The eldest now was Prince Khoren Vastouni, seriously contemplating retirement, and after him Oisín Adair. Jamyl, at twenty, was the youngest.
Sobered by this thought, Jamyl moved softly into the center of the room, nearer to the window, and took his stance in the center of the Kheldish carpet that lay there, reaching with his mind for the now long-familiar coordinates of the Portal matrix beneath. Then, after a last glance at the unmoving lump in the bed, he briefly closed his eyes and tweaked the energiesand controlled the slight surge of vertigo as he was suddenly . . . elsewhere.
Enjoyed the feast, did you?” said a pleasant baritone from the shadows to his left, before Jamyl could even draw breath.
Instinctively, Jamyl glanced in that direction, grinning as silvery light flared in the hand of the speaker. Though Stefan Coram owned only a few more years than Jamyl, and was senior in the Camberian Council by only a matter of months, he was perhaps the most powerful Deryni Jamyl had ever met: a fitting replacement for the redoubtable Michon de Courcy, whom Jamyl had known since childhood and from whom Jamyl had received much of his training.
I wish it were the feast that kept me,” Jamyl retorted, stepping from the Portal to exchange a handclasp with the other man. A messenger arrived from Culdi several hours ago. The Duke of Cassan is dyingmay already be dead, for all we know. Earl Jared and Kenneth Morgan rode out shortly after they received the news. After that, it took a while for everyone to settle in. Caused quite a stir, as you can imaginebut then, Duke Andrews absence from the kings knighting had already caused a lot of speculation.”
Cassan, eh?” Coram raised one white-blond eyebrow. Well, hes had a long and distinguished life, and Jared McLain has served his apprenticeship, thats for certain. Hell wear the coronet well.” He gestured with his handfire toward a pair of burnished metal doors, half again as high as a man. Wed best go in. Theyre discussing Mearawhich is hardly anything new, but theyre also waiting for Khoren, hoping hell have further news from Torenth.”
Jamyl looked at him sharply. Do we have another Festillic claimant?”
Perhaps not this time round,” Stefan replied.
No? I thought we had confirmation that Prince Hogans new wife is carrying another son.”
Oh, she is,” Stefan confirmed. Whether she can deliver this one alive remains to be seen. Khorens contact in the Festillic household reports that she went into labor nearly three days ago.”
Jamyl grimaced, for while he could hardly wish ill on any innocent babe still in its mothers womb, or even on its mother, a male heir for the Festillic pretender to the throne of Gwynedd could only cause problems for his own prince. But he said nothing as the doors parted for him and Stefan.
Inside, four heads turned to note their arrival, momentary anticipation subsiding as Jamyls presence registered.
Ah, its Jamyl,” the lone woman observed.
She and the three others were gathered around the great, eight-sided table of ivory that dominated the octagonal chamber, and appeared to have been poring over a map spread in the tables center. Above the table, suspended from the center boss of the faceted dome that lit the room by day, a crystal sphere cast a stark light that quite overpowered the more golden glow from candle sconces set at the angles of the room.
By this light, the Lady Vivienne looked distracted and a little haggard, aged beyond her years in a robe of faded russet and a close-fitting wimple. Barrett de Laney wore his customary scholars robes, the scarlet of the great university at Rhanamé, but the harsh lighting emphasized the angles of his lean, ascetic features, his sightless eyes like pools of darkness under the shadow of his brow.
Rhydon, somewhat older than Jamyl or Stefan, managed to look both serious and a trifle rakish, wearing his long facial scar like the badge of honor it was. He had sustained it in protecting the king, little though the king realized itjust as the king must never learn the full extent of Jamyls assistance on that fateful day. Oisín Adair, the oldest of those present, was probably the one Jamyl knew least well, but he clearly had been leading the discussion, one hand poised on the map before them.
No word yet from Khoren,” Oisín said, in answer to the unspoken question in Stefans lifted eyebrow, as he waved the pair to vacant chairs. Jamyl, while we wait, I was sharing some intelligence regarding recent developments in Meara. You may recall that I have been nurturing a friendship with the royal governor, who indicates that the king probably will need to begin thinking about a campaign next springor at least a royal visitation.”
Well, at least we got him safely knighted,” Jamyl murmured, as he took his seat to Oisíns right and Stefan continued on past Barrett to sit. He made a good showing at the tournament as well. But I had hoped he would have a few more years before Meara reared its ugly head.”
Vivienne quirked a faint smile as she glanced at their most recent inductee. Though Jamyl was junior to all of them, he had served an exceptionally useful apprenticeship beside his late uncle, Sir Seisyll Arilan, thereby gaining valuable access to the inner workings of Gwynedds courtand close friendship with the king.
Oh, hardly ugly, dear boy,” she said lightly. Sometimes bleak, I will grant you, though parts of the coast can be quite agreeable, at least in high summer. But then, you probably have never been to Meara.”
Several of them chuckled at that, and Jamyl rolled his eyes, smiling as he did so, but shook his head in agreement that, indeed, he had not visited that benighted province.
Take heart, lad,” Oisín said at his left. If you continue to serve Brion of Gwynedd, tis likely you will be obliged to become familiar with Meara all too soon.”
A pesthole!” Rhydon muttered under his breath, leaning back to fold his arms across his waist.
Indeed,” Barrett agreed, and returned his attention to the map beneath his hand, sweeping southward along the mountains that marked Mearas border with the Connait, though the sightless eyes gazed at nothing. Unfortunately, I fear that the pestilence festering in Meara will continue to plague the kings of Gwynedd for as long as there are descendants of the old Mearan royal line.”
Surely, there cant be many left,” Jamyl said. I was under the impression that King Donals last foray into Meara pretty much wiped out the last of them. And didnt Prince Judhael disappear after that? Is he even still alive?”
Barrett shrugged. Alive, yes, though in exile since that time. And I would venture to say that his threat is greatly diminished.”
Be plain about it, Barrett,” Rhydon muttered. They say that his mind has gone.”
Can that be any great surprise?” Vivienne replied. After all, that venture cost him a daughter and a granddaughter.”
Rhydon snorted. A proper prince would have taken that as a call for vengeance.”
For those Mearans faithful to the cause, Judhael is a proper prince, and their rightful lordnot Brion of Gwynedd,” Barrett pointed out dryly. Which is why we must not discount Judhael. And however sound of mind he may or may not be, he has a grandson of the same name nearing his majority. Furthermore, the Princess Caitrin might yet marry and produce an heir.”
There may be some truth to that last,” Oisín said thoughtfully. Had it not been for Donal Haldanes last Mearan campaign, she would have married Sir Francis Delaney, the younger brother of the Earl of Somerdale. Fortunately for Donal, Delaney met his end in the same engagement that saw Judhaels daughter and granddaughter hounded to death. We have Morian to thank for that,” he added for the benefit of Jamyl, who had been but a boy at the time. Yes, Morian du Joux, or ap Lewys, as he was born, whose father was Lewys ap Norfal. Lewys was quite a thorn in our sides, in his time, but fortunately the son serves us well. He has mostly made his career at the governors court in Meara, serving Haldane interests.”
Jamyl only nodded. He was well acquainted with the stories of how Lewys ap Norfal had been expelled from the Camberian Council many decades before, and had later perished in a magical endeavor gone horribly wrong. And he had heard of Morian, who apparently had mostly lived down his fathers reputation.
In any case,” Oisín went on, recent rumor has it that the Princess Caitrin now wishes to marry Derek Delaney Earl of Somerdale, the elder brother of her previous betrothed. This matchnay, any matchdoes not meet with the approval of her mother, who has been serving as regent-in-exile since her husbands descent into . . . let us say ineffectiveness rather than madness. Aude of Meara believes that enough Quinnell blood has been spilled in the now-lost Mearan cause. If Caitrin should fail to produce an heir, the last of the Mearan succession would rest in that last surviving grandson, the younger Prince Judhaeland they say that Aude has been grooming him for the Church, to the point that he intends to take holy orders.”
Vivienne sniffed. At twelve, I think it far more likely that young Prince Judhael may awaken to more worldly ambitions, but at least that is probably for the future.”
We shall see,” Oisín replied noncommittally. I worry more about Caitrin. Her mothers health is said to be failing. Once Aude is gone, Caitrin may well marryand any children she might bear would”
He broke off as the double doors suddenly parted and the last of their number silently entered the chamber, not meeting anyones gaze. In contrast to his usual, sometimes flamboyant attire, Prince Khoren Vastouni tonight was clad all in black, his greying hair ruffled in a silvery halo around his flat-topped black hat. As he slid into his seat to Viviennes left, she touched a hesitant hand to his shoulder, at which he shook his head.
What has happened?” Barrett asked quietly, cocking his head in the others direction.
Tis over,” Khoren said in a low voice, clearly steeling himself for the news he must deliver. Both the Lady Roshane and her child are dead.”
Vivienne gasped and sat back in her chair, her face draining of color, and Stefan bit at his lip.
It was a very long labor . . . ,” Barrett said tentatively.
Aye, but that alone was not the cause of her death,” Khoren replied, gazing up sightlessly at the glowing crystal far above their heads, his tone flat and detached. Hogan had summoned his aunt to attend the birth: the very ruthless Princess Camille Furstánaor Mother Serafina, as she now styles herself.” He briefly closed his eyes, as if to blot out the memory, then leaned his head against the high back of his chair.
The Festils are nothing if not tenacious, whether by birth or by marriage,” he went on. When it became clear to the Lady Roshane that her strength was failing, and that she could not deliver, she seized her husbands hand and bade them cut the child from her womb.” Vivienne gasped, and Jamyl felt his gut do a queasy roll. Hogan held her head and blocked the pain, weeping, and Camille did the deedall for naught, as it happened. The child, a prince, never drew breathand could not have long survived, in any case. The head was nearly twice the size it should have been, and there were . . . other deformities. My informant was present at the birth, but would not elaborate. Perhaps it is better that way.”
As he raised a hand to cover his eyes, a collective sigh whispered among his listeners.
Well,” said Rhydon, after a beat. It could be argued that there is a positive side to all of this. One less male heir to strengthen Hogans claim on Gwynedd.”
That is a monstrous thing to say!” Vivienne snapped.
Nonetheless, it is true,” Rhydon said coldly. The Festils have long memories, and they will not lightly give up what they regard as rightfully theirs.”
What they stole in the first place!” Stefan said under his breath.
Be that as it may,” Rhydon replied, eventually, your Brion Haldane will need to contend with Prince Hogan. But at least it will not be with a son at his back. At least not this time.”
He does have issue from that von Soslán affair,” Barrett pointed out. Two boys among them, as I recall.”
They are of no import,” Vivienne said flatly. All of the children of that union are bastards.”
Jamyl sat forward. Hogan has children besides Charissa?”
Vivienne shrugged. There were several by the von Soslán woman. The two were even married briefly, though his mother had the marriage annulled as soon as she found out, and King Arkady also disapproved. Kethevan, she is called.
For some years after that, Hogan refused to take another wife, though he continued to live with his inamorata, and she bore him many children. I believe that three survive. Eventually, he was reconciled with his mother, and agreed to marry a woman of appropriate rank.”
That would be Larissa de Marluk, who bore him the Princess Charissa,” Barrett offered. There was also an identical twin who died shortly after birth. Then after Larissa died in childbed of a stillborn son, he married another highborn woman, Roshane of Fallon. Alas, poor lady, her first child was stillborn, and the second. . . .” He sighed. But it all matters little, now.”
These surviving von Soslán bastards,” Jamyl said thoughtfully. Might they still present a threat?”
Khoren shook his head. Festillic house law is quite specific. Charmed though Hogan may have been by the Lady Kethevan, she was not deemed of sufficient rank to contract a royal marriage. Hence, the children of that union may not inherit. None are in the Festillic succession, or have dynastic rights.”
That could change, of course, were Hogan to become more ambitious, or more desperate,” Barrett observed dryly. Blood is blood, after all.”
Chapter 7
Thine own friend, and thy fathers friend, forsake not . . .”
PROVERBS 27:10
SIR Llion and Sir Tesselin left with the second Culdi party at midmorning of the following day, with both their young charges now well mounted on reliable rounceys. The journey would take nearly a week, since Tesselin kept the pace moderate in the beginning, but it would give ample opportunity for the boys to become accustomed to full-sized horses.
They shall never be satisfied with ponies again,” Llion remarked to Tesselin, after they had been on the road for most of the first day. The boys were riding farther ahead with Sir Froilán Lascelles, the other young knight in Jareds household.
Tesselin snorted. Oh, ponies have their uses, even for grown men. Theres nothing better in rugged mountains. Of course, I come from that kind of country.”
Well, so do theyDuncan, at least,” Llion replied. Still, I suppose it was timeand you saw how Alaric performed at the tournament. Nor was Duncan far behind, and neither of them yet eight.”
Aye, theyre fearless at this age,” Tesselin said with a chuckle. But ponies are small and quick and maneuverableand closer to the ground. Theres more scope for error on a full-sized mount.”
True enough.” Llion scanned ahead, where the boys had been joined by one of the squires. But somehow, I dont think there will be much difference, once theyre riding full-sized horses regularly.” He glanced aside at Tesselin with a sly grin. Remember, Ive been training Alaric since he was four; I know what he can do.”
Tesselin shrugged amiably. You may be right. Still, its a transition all of us have had to make.”
FOR Alaric and Duncan, the initial headiness of embarking upon their first almost-adult adventure had settled into tedium by the second day, underlined by increasing physical discomfort. While they had been thrilled to be given full-sized mounts for the journey, and had sat their horses proudly as they headed north along the river, it soon became abundantly clear that there was a vast difference between a few hours of riding for pleasure, or even for training, and spending hour after hour in the saddle, mile after mile and day after day. Llion and Tesselin halted the party every few hours to rest the horses and allow their riders to get down and stretch cramped limbs, but by the second day, the boys were finding it increasingly difficult to summon up serious enthusiasm when it was time to remount and press on.
I suppose it just takes practice,” Alaric murmured aside to Duncan, on one such occasion midway through the second day, as they watched two of their escort knights cinch up the horses girths again, getting ready to resume travel. It doesnt seem to bother the men.”
Duncan nodded, rubbing surreptitiously at his backside. I think those saddles are too big for us,” he replied. We were used to our old saddles.”
Yes, but our saddles are pony saddles,” Alaric pointed out reasonably. Theyre too small for these horses.”
Thats true,” Duncan agreed. My da says its always better to have a sore backside than for your horse to have a sore back.”
Aye, my da says that, too.”
As they walked back over to the horses in question, Llion came to join them.
All right, lads. Ready for a leg up?”
Both boys put on stoic faces and accepted the offered assistance, settling gingerly into saddles as they resigned themselves to several more hours before they would stop for the night.