Thank you for the dinner, Prahbrindrah. Ill treat you in kind, soon. Ram. Abda. They stepped close. Ram offered a hand up. They had stayed behind me, unseen. I was pleased that they were alert. Ram would have been if only because of where we were. A man of his station had no hope of visiting the grove ordinarily. Have a pleasant evening, Prince. I expect to hand you the heads of Taglios enemies within the year.

He wore a sort of sad, yearning look as he watched us go. I knew what he was feeling. I had felt it often while I was empress in the north. But I had hidden it better.

Chapter Thirty

Chapter Thirty

Ram waited till he was confident we were out of earshot. Something is going to happen, Mistress.

Trouble?

We were watched by sneaking Gunni priests all the time. They acted like they were up to no good.

Ah. I did not question his estimate. He did not have too rich an imagination. I snapped fingers at a nearby servitor. Fetch Master Gupta.

Master Gupta ran the grove, a benign dictator. He was attentive to his guests-especially those who were close to the Prahbrindrah Drah. He appeared almost instantly.

Bowing like a coolie, he asked, What could the great lady want of this lowly worm?

How about a sword? Dressed as a woman and empress I had not come heavily armed. I had one short dagger.

His eyes got huge. A sword? What would I do with a sword, Mistress?

I havent the faintest. But I want to borrow one if you can provide it.

Eyes even bigger, he bowed several times. Ill see what can be found. He scooted off, throwing uncertain looks over his shoulder.

Ram, help me shed some of this showpiece.

He was scandalized. He refused.

Ram, youre pushing for the opportunity to spend your army time digging latrine trenches.

He took my word for it, accepted the disapproval of several dozen watchers as he helped me shed my most cumbersome garments. He was embarrassed.

Abda, not asked to participate, pretended blindness.

Gupta materialized. He had a sword. It was someones show toy. I borrowed this from a gentleman who was gracious enough to permit me to carry it to you. He was blind, too. I expect he had seen everything over the years. The grove was a place where lovers managed clever assignations.

I shall harbor kind thoughts toward you forever, Gupta. Am I correct in assuming the staff sent for my coach when they saw me getting ready to leave?

The men responsible will be seeking employment elsewhere if it isnt there when you arrive, Lady.

Thank you. Ill send this toy back shortly.

Ram again waited till he thought no one could hear, grunted a question. I replied, If theres to be trouble itll come just inside the gate. If we reach the coach well be safe.