“Sorry to hear about your grandfather,” the duke continued, “although I can’t say I’m surprised. He was so old. Wasn’t he, Mother?”

“Oh, quite so. But very loyal.”

“I suppose. He always made me feel like I had food caught in my teeth,” the duke admitted. “I bet he makes Thaena straighten her dress in the Afterlife. Was he very strict with you?” He didn’t look back at me, so it took a second to realize I’d been addressed.

“Uh … I admit I didn’t find him so, my duke.”

“Of course. You were all the family he had left, after all. Probably let you get away with all manner of things. You did bring a different outfit, I hope? That armor’s just fantastic for the tournaments, but it’s not going to work at all for the feast. People are going to think you’re a mare if you don’t wear any jewelry.”

“I hoped I might speak to you about Barsine first—”

“Oh, of course. I mean, someone shows up and wipes out an entire town, during a tournament no less … I have to pay attention, don’t I? We can’t have that happening again.”

I exhaled and felt tension leave me as we walked down the hallways. “Yes, my duke. I quite agree.”

“Fortunately, I have been briefed on the situation and have everything under control. It won’t be a problem.”

“That’s wonderful, my duke. The baron told you what happened?”

“No, no. I have a letter from the new baron, but I haven’t had the pleasure of meeting him in person yet. No, a survivor made it here to the city and explained everything. Wonderful fellow. I’m thinking I might keep him around, even if he isn’t Joratese.”

We came to the hallway’s end, where soldiers waited before ornate double doors. They saluted at the duke’s approach and then opened the doors for him.

“He isn’t Joratese?” I had a moment’s puzzlement. Even as the doors swung open, I realized the only person he could be describing. The bottom dropped from my stomach.

“My duke,” said Relos Var, sweeping into a deep bow. “I’m so pleased to see you.”

27: HUNTING THE WHITE HIND

Jorat Dominion, Quuros Empire. Three days since Darzin D’Mon got what he deserved

“Seriously?” Kihrin threw Janel a flat glare. “You’re stopping there? Nina’s right; you are a monster.”

Janel just laughed as she reached for her water. “But I’m so parched.” She saluted him with the glass. “Anyway, at least I can laugh about it now. I didn’t find it funny at the time.”

“Wait,” Ninavis said. “I thought—” She shook her head in pure wonderment. “Is there any noble this side of the Dragonspires whose ear that bastard wasn’t whispering in?”

Qown shook his head. “Not really.”

“The Duke of Marakor?” Kihrin offered.