“And it is only the first option, Your Highness,” Helino explained. “After you see what we have planned across the river, you’ll be truly impressed and astonished. Ever since your father gave us the authorization, we have been planning every detail.”

“I’ll meet you there,” Manuel said. “With luck, your father won’t keep me long, and I’ll be able to catch the same ferry.”

“Don’t be late,” Farilane told him. “I’ll want your opinion.”

“Nothing but death will stop me.”

“The emperor—ah, your father—explained that you would want a large footprint for a massive building—a palace for books,” Helino said. “He suggested that utilizing the sheep fields would also allow you to add gardens—complete with fountains. A whole complex of reading areas could be created along with a tranquil setting.”

Farilane nodded politely, but his words were as flies in winter, possible but out of place.

They rode along on a pair of cushioned benches that faced each other in the wagon. Ekles sat beside her, and Helino and Orvis faced them on the opposite seat. There was no canopy, and the sun beat down. Among their feet was an assortment of bags, ropes, and oddments. Chains rattled with the pavement.

“What are the chains for?” she asked.

“Are you knowledgeable on the subject of surveying?”

“No.”

“Then I doubt my explaining their use would help.”

Farilane ticked off her observations of Helino: his soft hands, complete with stubby fingers and clean fingernails; the way he pulled off one boot to massage his big toe; how he continued to sweat and used a lace-edged cloth to dab at his temples and upper lip. Orvis sat hunched forward and avoided looking at her, spending his time shifting awkwardly, as if he couldn’t find a comfortable position. Ekles fidgeted with his tunic, pulling on the shoulders and around the neck. He sat casually with knees apart, hairy legs revealing crisscrossed bare marks in the tan that ran up his calves. He had something in his teeth and dug for it with a thumbnail.

Nothing more was volunteered about the building plans, which did not surprise her. What did was the score of armed legionnaires waiting at the dock. They parted as the wagon approached.

Seeing no signs of confusion in her three companions—they didn’t even appear to notice the soldiers—she asked. “Are they coming with us?”

“Hmm?” Helino looked over. “Oh, yes. What with all the dreadful events recently, your father insisted you be protected, even on so short a trip.”