Vars could feel the shame rising up in him, slowly bubbling and turning to anger, as he went through the things he was required to do for the day. The wine was keeping it at bay, but only barely. He lifted a goblet to his lips again.

Please remain perfectly still, your highness, the tailor with him said, and it was all Vars could do to keep from striking the man. It was so foolish that people like that could talk back to him and expect no punishment in response.

That brought thoughts of the boy in the House of Weapons, the one who had humiliated him. Vars still hadnt worked out the best way to have vengeance on him, and that was just fueling his bad mood. Why hadnt Rodry just let him execute the idiot and be done with it?

He drew his attention back to the fitting, the tailor still about his work.

Are we nearly done? Vars asked. He took another, very deliberate, sip of his wine.

Very nearly, your highness, but we want your newest doublet and breeches to be perfect for the wedding.

The wedding, always the wedding. It seemed as though everything in the castle at the moment was about Lenores wedding, when Vars couldnt see how his half-sister deserved so much fuss.

Ah, looking wonderful as always, Lyril said as she came into the chambers unannounced. More wedding preparations?

Do not start about the wedding, Vars said. My half-sister sits as far removed from the succession as you could imagine, yet she gets a wedding worthy of a queen. He remembered the presence of the tailor. You, out.

Your highness…

Out!

The man scurried out, taking his tools with him.

Well, hell be around the castle, telling the story of how the prince is jealous of the attention his sister is getting, Lyril said.

Are you criticizing me? Vars demanded.

She raised an eyebrow in response. If she was afraid, she didnt show it. Merely pointing out that usually you are more subtle, my prince. Its just one of the things I love about you.

Love? Vars said. That always seemed like such a stupid word. Love was a transaction, and the things that came of it definitely were. I give you money and you give me pleasure. I give you myself in marriage and you give me lands or men for my armies, or a secure bloodline. Love didnt come into it.

You are a remarkable man, Vars, Lyril said, moving close to him.

Vars made a grab for her, but Lyril stepped back, just out of his reach.

Not today, my darling, she said. I too have many preparations to make for the wedding.