Vars groaned at the trap in that, then went and dressed, finding a flask of wine and sipping it as he went. He offered it to Lyril, who also took some. They headed out into the castle, making their way through its twists and turns, down toward the great hall.

Your highness, my lady, a servant said as they passed, the feasting has already begun.

Vars rounded on the man. Do you think I need you to tell me that? Do you think Im stupid, or that I have no idea of the time?

No, my prince, but your father

My father will be busy with the politics of it all, or he will be listening to Rodry boast about whatever my brother has done now, Vars said.

As you say, your highness, the man said. He made to go.

Wait, Lyril said. Do you think that you just get to go? You should apologize to the prince, and to me, for interrupting us.

Yes, of course, the servant said. I am most

A proper apology, Lyril said. On your knees.

The man hesitated for a moment, and Vars leapt in. Do it.

The servant sank to his knees. I apologize for interrupting you, your highness, my lady. I should not have done it.

Vars saw Lyril smile at that.

No, she said. Now go, get out of our sight.

The servant all but ran off at her command, like a greyhound after a rabbit. Vars laughed as he went.

You can be deliciously cruel sometimes, he said. He liked that in her.

Only when it is amusing, Lyril replied.

They kept going, down to the feast. Of course, by the time they entered, it was in full swing, with everyone drinking and dancing, eating and enjoying themselves. Vars could see his half-sister up at the front, the center of attention along with her husband-to-be. Why the child of a kings second wife should warrant such attention was beyond him.

It was bad enough that Rodry was there with a cluster of noble youths in one corner, receiving their admiration as he told and retold stories of his exploits. Why had fate seen fit to make him the oldest? It made no sense to Vars when it was obvious that Rodry was about as suited to the future role of king as he was to flying by flapping his over-muscled arms.

Of course, a wedding like this provides possibilities, Lyril said. It brings together so many lords and ladies…

Who can then be made into our friends, Vars said. He understood how the game worked. Of course, it helps if one knows their weaknesses. Did you know that Earl Durris over there has a weakness for smoking blood amber?

I did not, Lyril said.