“Master Silas is training Donellea Ilar in the basics of talent use. The same studies and training that each talent trainee must complete in order to become a talent.”
“Did you or did you not promise to marry her?”
I met the woman’s shadowed gaze, knowing fully that moonlight revealed my features to her as well. “I promised your husband that I would find Donellea Ilar a husband after her training. If I failed to do so, I would marry her myself.”
“And have you made efforts to find her a mate?”
“I have, but at present all of my attempts have fallen on infertile ground. I assume that you wish your daughter to have a love match, if possible.”
She favored me with a curt nod.
“Those I have had introduced into her circle of society have not caught her fancy.”
She studied my face, her face a mask, hiding her own thoughts. “You seem to be an upright man, despite the rumors flying about.”
“Thank you, Donelle,” I responded.
Renato’s musky presence flickered across my mind. “Someone is watching us. I am going to investigate.” He moved off into the darkness in the direction of the nearest tree line.
“Renato thinks he saw someone observing us.”
“It is probably one of my husband’s men.”
“Why would he follow you?” I couldn’t see the queen putting up with that kind of thing.
Stepping closer to me, she inclined her head confidingly. “I did not want to speak of this while Renato could hear. I am going to offer you an agreement, Master Aleron. I shall prevent the rumors of you and my daughter marrying from the circulation. In exchange, you will keep my daughter from her father’s control.” By her strength of character and her position as a queen and confidant of the High Queen, I had no doubt that she could seriously hamper the gossips campaign against me.
I couldn’t mask the surprise that shook me with her statement. This was hardly the response I had expected after her husband’s argument that she shouldn’t know what was actually happening with Zezilia. Nascio Ilar’s face transformed before my eyes, melting into concern and worry.
“Sabine has my husband’s ear, and I have heard the poison that he is pouring into it. The two of them are plotting something and it involves my daughter. Master, I know Sabine well. He offered for my hand a year before I married Ostin. He has no scruples, no conscience. I do not want my daughter in his control, and Ostin will not speak to me on the matter.”
I nodded my understanding. King Sabine gave me the same impression, but it was reassuring to hear it from the lips of one who knew.
“From her letters, I know that Zezilia is safe and happy. She paints pictures of a home life that I cannot give her here. The company of sisters will be good for her, and I have met Adreet Silas. She is a good woman.”
“I am pleased that you approve, madam,” I replied.
“Master Aleron,” she whispered harshly. Her hand gripped my arm. “Promise me that you will not let Zezilia fall into Sabine’s or her father’s hands while Sabine’s council is ruling him.”
“I promise.” I covered her hand reassuringly just as Renato emerged from the darkness at our side.
“They got away,” he sent before turning to his mother. “You should return to the celebration, Mother. Your presence will be missed.”
“Yes, I have been away too long already.” Composing her face, she smiled up at her son. “Escort me back, Renato.”
“Master?” Renato’s questioning sending passed across my thoughts.
“Go and then return. I shall be fine for a few moments. Your mother has given me much to think on while I wait.”
“But, the spies?”
I brushed away his worried query. “I am trained in self-defense, Renato. I am not a child who needs constant attendance. Go.”
Renato went with his mother on his arm, but not without a parting sending. “Be careful.”
I watched them as they gracefully followed the path in the direction of the palace and the brightly lit windows of the dancing room. They made a fetching image, the tall straight form of the son supporting his shorter and slimmer mother, outlined against the light. I wondered how I looked when I escorted my mother places. Mother was taller than Queen Ilar, but I am also taller than Renato. Perhaps we looked similarly.
Realizing where my thoughts had wandered, I reined them in to the problem at hand. King Ilar and King Sabine were going to be a dangerous combination. What Sabine lacked in influence, Ilar more than compensated. Well respected and revered among the kings, Ilar could cause a great deal of damage to me if he chose. Most likely the only thing that was hindering him from doing so now was my possession of his daughter. Zezilia was in my care and would remain there for another two years. Only then, once she is safely married and removed from my reputation, could he declare war against me. Until that time, he was limited in what he could say, for my reputation would reflect back on him since he and I were bound by my promise.
It is yet another thing to consider with each step, Almighty. When will the complications end? When will I be able to act without worry of people plotting against me? My heart ached for the days when I lived in ignorance. But even as I longed, my thoughts turned to the Revelation of the Almighty and His instructions. He only portioned out what I could handle with His grace. I was here for a purpose and his plan was not complete. Who was I to question the Master of the Universe? You are right, Father, I prayed. I stand admonished. Please forgive my lack of trust in You. I am your vessel; use me as You will.
A strange peace fell over me, washing me with calm. It was all in His hands.
“Someone was definitely watching us,” Renato declared as
