“And the princess royal’s, as well, I suppose?” said Malthus dryly.

“They have hunted together,” the duke said, ignoring the barb. “Elani’s mother birthed a fine string of girls, and I have four daughters myself. Queen Phoria is said to be taking such matters into consideration. Skala can’t afford another uncertain succession.”

On one hand, it was tempting to mark down the duke as just another social climber, trying to position his heir to ascend the royal ladder by way of the royal bed. But there was something about the cold-blooded manner in which he spoke of the match that fueled Seregil’s suspicions. It wasn’t the tone of a would-be father-in-law. There was often truth to be found in wine that didn’t come out otherwise.

“But I’m not the only one with a connection to the royal family, am I, Seregil,” said Reltheus. “I believe you and Alec here know Princess Klia.”

“They’re good friends with her,” said Eirual.

“We have that honor,” Seregil replied, puffing up a bit. Something in the way Reltheus was looking at him now twigged his suspicions. As innocent as the question seemed, he sensed more than ordinary interest and thought again of the list Alec had found with their names on it. “I’ve known her since she was just a little thing, and Alec came to know her well while we were in Aurënen.”

“What do you think of her? I understand she’s a delightful woman, and a fearless warrior.”

Alec nodded. “She’s as brave as she is beautiful and intelligent.”

“Spoken like a true devotee,” Reltheus said with a smile. “I suppose that’s what makes her such a fine commander. And there are those who think she’d make a fine queen.”

“I suppose there are,” Seregil replied noncommittally.

“Well, you are lucky young men, to be counted as friends of one so near the throne.”

“So near, yet so far.” Seregil watched for a reaction.

“Indeed,” said Selin, shaking his head.

“Word around court is that the queen is cold toward her youngest sister,” Reltheus said. “Do you know anything of that, Seregil?”

“Klia doesn’t bear her sister any ill will that I know of. As I understand it, they had their differences over allying with Aurënen.” Once again, this was common knowledge. “The queen had already chosen Elani as her successor, though. That had nothing to do with her decision, as far as I know.”

“Why do you suppose Queen Phoria recalled her sister from Aurënen so suddenly?” wondered Reltheus.

Seregil laughed and waved a hand. “I’m sure I don’t know. We haven’t seen Klia since she came back, and we’re certainly not privy to the queen’s reasoning.”

“Oh, of course not,” the duke replied. “I was only curious as to your opinion.”