“Exactly. And this realm has suffered enough from the scathefire. We must not ignore the danger; a few magic-wielding warriors would not come amiss. They would have been of use in that battle winter before last. Or if Alured chooses to come to the north by water … I can all too easily imagine him storming our new port with whatever magery he’s acquired: his own, or that of an ally. By Arcolin’s letters, uncanny things happened down there the last few years.” Kieri shook his head and leaned over to kiss her. “But nothing, my love, matters are much as this: you here, alive and well, with our firstborn alive and well in your arms.”

Arian glanced down at the babes, now both asleep. “I had best get my rest while I can. I suspect both of them will be keeping us awake for years to come.”

Kieri chuckled. “We will have help with that, but—if you allow—I will take them to their cradle.” Arian nodded, and he scooped up one babe at a time, a little surprised at himself for remembering how to hold a newborn. He laid them in the double cradle built for them, and when he turned back from the second, Arian was already asleep.

The sound of hooves on stone came through the window. Kieri reached the window overlooking the courtyard just in time to see a tall figure in a Girdish-blue surcoat over glittering mail on a red horse ride through the gate. So much for rest.

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

As always, many contributed to the research in this book as well as others in the group. Their contributions made it better; errors are my fault. David R. Watson of New World Arbalest graciously lent books from his library and gave advice on weaponry, as well as serving as an alpha reader for some sections. The other alpha readers, pressed into service over the holidays, did their usual amazing job of pointing out what still needed to be done. The group of fans who read and comment on the Paksworld blog looked up details from past books for me, and their commentary gave insight into some issues. Choir members provided much-needed support when things weren’t going well and helped me keep focused on the ultimate goal. Former editor Betsy Mitchell, a strong supporter of the Paksworld books from the very first, continued to advise on this one right up to her retirement, and current editor Anne Groell has done an extraordinary job of taking over, including reading all the previous Paksworld books. No writer could be better served. And finally, thanks are always due to my husband, Richard, and son, Michael, without whose patience and willingness to take over the other work there’d be no time to write.

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