In a voice like scattering gravel, he promised, “No one will laugh at you, Highness.”

While Lome hesitated, caught between his fears and desires, King Bifalt considered what he knew about Lome’s reasons for treachery and drinking. To Bifalt’s way of thinking, they came down to outraged vanity. But he picked a version of them that would not offend his floundering brother.

“When you arranged to have Amika’s Queen killed, you were trying to save Belleger. You believed that our alliance was our greatest threat. Now the threat is greater. Here is your chance to save Bellegerin lives—and to be known for saving them—without conniving or treachery.”

At that, Lome flinched. Perhaps he did not expect Bifalt to know him so well. But then, slowly, he raised his head. His gaze climbed to meet Bifalt’s.

Almost whimpering, he mumbled, “As you say, Majesty. I will do it.”

A moment later, his old indignation came to his rescue. “But understand this.” Imitating the King, he poked Bifalt’s chest. “If even one of your ‘prominent’ men and women laughs at me—or if Erepos refuses any of my demands on his time—I will leave your precious Bellegerins to their doom.”

Bifalt wanted to smack Lome. Instead, he mustered an uncharacteristic mildness. “As you say, Brother. No one will fault you for it.”

“Ha!” cried Lome: a shout of triumph or a wail of grief. King Bifalt could not tell the difference. He doubted that Lome himself knew what he felt at that moment. But Bifalt had nothing more to say. He only watched as Lome turned, thrust his way between Malder and Spliner, and hurried away down the street.

Malder cocked his head at the King: a mute question. Speaking quickly, Bifalt answered, “Go with him. Keep my promise to him. If you have questions, we will talk later.”

Nodding his acceptance, the brawler followed Lome.

Unlike King Bifalt, Prince Jaspid was laughing. He did not make a sound, but he shook with released tension, and his eyes were bright with mirth. When he could control his voice, he said, “Well struck, Majesty.” He had no scorn in him. He was simply pleased. “I would not have thought to turn his vanity against him. It is the only weapon he cannot deflect.”

Until he lost sight of the younger Prince in the growing crowds, King Bifalt did not notice that his neck and shoulders ached as if he had taken a beating.

THREE

A VISIT TO THE BAY OF LIGHTS

As winter spread its hand over the western reaches of Belleger, Klamath son of Klimith rode out from the Open Hand with a dull dawn at his back and First Captain Matt at his side. Trailing a small company of twelve, they headed for the Bay of Lights, where the enemy would strike first.