Happy or not though, it had needed doing. It had taken everything Rodry had to keep from simply killing the ambassador. He had heard the stories of the past, of the conflicts that had shaped the two kingdoms, of knights and dragons and more. Those stories were clear about one thing: when there was a threat to the kingdom, a strong man always rose to fight against those enemies and drive them back. Well, today, Rodry had been that man.

This is what happens when you threaten those I care about, Rodry said, slapping the rump of the ambassadors donkey to set it in motion. It hurried off with Kay and the two other horses hurrying to keep up.

Insults couldnt go unpunished, whatever his father thought. And the ambassadors threats meant nothing. Let the south play at war. Rodry was strong enough to keep them all safe.

CHAPTER EIGHTEEN

Inside, a guard said, and pushed Devin through a set of double doors.

Devin braced himself, afraid he was being thrown into a dungeon.

Yet to his surprise he found himself stepping into a living chamber, or perhaps a reception chamber backing onto other rooms. He froze in place, his heart stopping: there was the king.

There he was, seated and crowned. Prince Rodry stood to one side. On a table before the king sat a spear Devin recognized as one the prince had taken with him from the House of Weapons, and the sword Nem had given him. The guards had taken it from him as theyd kept him waiting. Apparently, theyd been waiting for the king.

Devin came forward, remembered himself in time, and bowed.

This is the same boy? King Godwin demanded.

This is Devin of the House of Weapons, Prince Rodry replied. He made the spear.

Devin frowned as he straightened up, confused as to what was happening.

And that sword? King Godwin asked him, gesturing to the messer on the table. Did you make that, boy?

Devin shook his head. No, your majesty. That was my friend Nem.

King Godwin took it and took the spear, staring at them, comparing them.

I can see the difference, he said, hefting the spear. Fine work indeed. Are you sure you made this, Devin of the House of Weapons? If I find that youve lied to me after this, Ill see you in more trouble than you can imagine, even for entering my hall.

Im sorry, Devin said. I needed to speak to Master Grey, and I thought that

The king stopped him with a raised hand. My magus has explained things, as much as he ever explains things. The spear; did you make everything?

I made everything, Devin assured him. From forge welding the metal billet to winding the haft to the head.

Impressive, the king said. Then it seems that I have a task for you.

Your majesty? Devin said.

Have you heard of star metal?