Disclaimer: Harry Potter and his world belong to J. K. Rowling. In this story, Harry Potter is very old, and is known as 'The Great Wizard.' His name is Bellamy.

Chapter 31:

Early in March, Valencio and Tasha sat at separate tables in the guests' dining room. Tasha wore the yellow jacket of a host, and Valencio wore a yellow vest. Clarence was also a host, and went to each of the four tables, giving details of upcoming activities, as he did every breakfast. "Tennis lessons every afternoon, straight after lunch, suitable for beginners, but Kurt says he's not good enough to teach better players. The films to be shown this week are on the Notice Board, The Centurion this afternoon, The Hundred Year Spell after dinner."

Valencio swore to himself. They probably didn't realize he was in it. He'd best make sure it wasn't shown. Bad enough that they all seemed to know he'd been in Son of Satan, he didn't want them seeing The Hundred Year Spell.

Clarence continued. "Rides as usual, easy in the morning, more demanding in the afternoon, but led by Mary, not Gloria, as she and Vince are going to a horse sale. If you're interested in going as well, see Vince."

A woman said, "A friend said that guests can enter gymkhanas."

"The next one that's close is in Leeton in three weeks. If you're still going to be here then, talk to Gloria, and she'll arrange practice."

Sue wondered if she could get an extension. Her friend, Lorraine, had a photograph of herself as a Spanish Senorita on a big grey horse with a flowing mane. She wanted one too, if possible. Clarence mentioned a few other routine activities, said to ask Vince for details, and went to the next table.

Sue said, "Vince, about this horse sale."

"Do you want to come?"

"I'd love to."

"Ten o'clock then. Anyone else?"

A man said, "Are you planning on buying any horses?"

"Gloria wants a couple more small ones for children. Also if there's any unusual looking ones, for entering Fancy Dress events." He grinned, and said, "And then she'll probably buy any skinny one, that looks like it's been ill treated, and any that bites or kicks, because she says she quite often feels like that herself." He quickly added, "Not with guests, of course. Never with guests!"

Barry looked dubious, and asked, "Do any of your horses bite and kick."

"Hardly ever. Our horses mostly like us."

Two women came from the next door table, and Valencio said, "Ten o'clock. Wait at the yellow post near the main entrance."

Three more from the last table, and Valencio said, "Six then, and any in the units who want to come."

"How will they know?"

"Like a newsletter, put under their door every morning."

"Not as friendly."

"Some like their independence. Cater for themselves, join any activities they want, ignore those they don't want, same as anyone else."

At ten o'clock, he drove his horse box to the bright yellow post, put here for just this purpose, consulted his list, and marked off the ones whose names he'd taken at breakfast. He looked up as a woman approached.

Galina hesitated. She hadn't realized that he'd be going with Gloria. He smiled at her, and asked, "You want to come to the horse sale?"

Galina decided it would be more conspicuous to pull out now, and said, "Of course."

Valencio asked, "Name, just so we can make sure you're not left behind?"

"Galina."

Valencio marked it on his list, and said generally, "The bus, which Clarence is driving, and one passenger can come with me if they want."

Sue said quickly, "I'd like to come with you."

Another woman said, "Don't let him lure you into bed then. You know what happens to his girlfriends."

Valencio reddened. It hadn't been as bad as he'd expected, but it was a bit embarrassing. He said casually, "Probably why they only let me kiss in the next one."

Galina asked, "What are you talking about?"

"I was in a couple of movies, but only the first one's released yet."

Galina looked at the woman who'd been with Sue, and moved closer. She was obviously the one to ask. When had he had time to do two movies?

Gloria wasn't wearing the yellow vest, and it was Clarence, Amreeta, and especially Valencio who had guests with them. Cramsie McGonnigal was there as well, to give advice. Gloria made a slow inspection, checking the catalogue. She said quietly, "John can tell if a horse has a nasty streak, but I didn't want to ask him."

"I read he's in America anyway."

He was happy not to have bloody wizards around. Why was he feeling more irked about wizards than usual? He looked around, straight at Galina, who quickly averted her eyes. For the first time in a very long time, he stared at someone, wanting to know what they were thinking. But Galina knew about telepathy, and was thinking loud thoughts about avoiding the puddles on the ground.

Gloria said, "That's a possibility."

Valencio looked at the pony, and objected, "It's tiny!"

Gloria nodded. "About 10 hands. You're right. Too small. 11 hands minimum is more useful, 12 hands is better."

They continued, and Gloria said, "So many black ponies, just like Ruby and Kellie."

"They're very useful."

"We'll buy more probably, when our own get older. Not right now." She hesitated at a pure white horse, with light blue eyes. "Albino!"

Amreeta joined them, and said, "That one, if it's quiet. And the rider would be all white, even the bridle, if possible. It can be a ghost or something."

Gloria consulted the catalogue. "Only five, and supposed to be quiet. I'll ask Cam to have a look."

She looked for a long time at a few shaggy ponies, and then said, "No. I think I'll pass them by. And anyway, in a couple of years, we'll have Jack and Zephyr available."

"So only one then?" said Valencio. "I'm disappointed."

"We have to be sensible. We've got an awful lot of horses."

"I suppose."

Gloria smiled, "On the other hand, some are only borrowed, and both Thowra and Mosquito are to go back soon. Their owner wants them."

"Thowra will be missed."

Gloria nodded. Thowra routinely won show classes for his rider. She said thoughtfully, "I might just have another look at the heavy horses."

Galina's March report. "I found myself too close, accidentally, and he stared at me as if suspicious. So someone else would be better next time."

Narzu-Han nodded, and said, "He has a great deal of intelligence, as well as potential telepathy."

Galina said, "Maybe it was in the winter months, but he's been to Hollywood, and made two movies, one not yet released, the first very successful."

Narzu-Han sat up, "What!" Stupid, stupid boy. He was supposed to stay where he seemed to be safe. He wished he could put fences around him again.

Galina said, "It seems that everyone knows of it, and he's up for some sort of a big award for acting. No-one could work out why he's not going there in case he wins it." She passed him a piece of paper. "I did some research, and the details are written down."

"Was he alright?" demanded Narzu-Han, urgently.

"Seemed fine. At tennis lessons most afternoons, they've got a couple of young men there working for them, so Vince has less to do than usual. Out riding most days. Dug up an area for gardening, cleans tack, brushes horses..." She smiled, "Invariably refuses autographs, but agrees to pose with guests for photographs. It seems he's a bit famous, though I guess only while the movie's such a hit."

Narzu-Han said, "I need to know if he's going to do it again. I need more frequent reports. He has to be stopped from putting himself at risk."

Galina said, puzzled, "What risk? If he wants to act, why should you stop him?"

Narzu-Han said, "Because..." He ran a hand over his forehead, and said lamely, "The costs come out of my personal money, not Council money. It's what I want."

Galina shrugged, and said she'd talk to Feena.

Back at Loch Lomand, Carol said, "The Academy Awards, Vince. If you have no objection, we could make it a big night for the guests. It will be on TV in the evening, and we could all get dressed up as film stars, put it on the big screen in the theatre, and have refreshments next door."

Valencio said, resigned, "They all seem to know about it. I suppose it wouldn't hurt."

Tasha beamed at him, "It'll be like being there!"

Inge asked excitedly, "Who did you ask to accept it for you, Vince?"

"I didn't ask anyone. Sent a note in case I won, to say thank you very much, but unfortunately, I'm too busy on the farm to attend."

Inge laughed at him, and said scornfully, "Too busy on the farm!"

"How did the audition go for the ad?"

"I haven't heard yet, but I think I have a good chance."

"I've scarcely ever had to audition. Mostly just chosen, and offered the part."

Evita said, "I start Monday. It's a series, a soapie. Just a small part, but a real part."

"What about your cows and things?"

Evita shrugged, "They're Ingrid's and Adolfina's as well. I'd rather be a film star."

The night of the Academy Awards, Valencio donned his tuxedo, and Tasha puffed up the frills on his shirt. Valencio grinned at himself in the mirror, and said, "Fancy Dress."

Tasha slipped on her evening gown, and he ran a hand admiringly over her bare back, "You look beautiful."

Tasha kissed him. She was glowing. Valencio didn't know yet, but she did. There was a time difference, and the awards on TV were not live.

Bernice and Clarence fussed over refreshments, offering guests champagne and wine, but refusing Valencio a beer. He protested, "I like beer! I don't like wine."

Bernice said firmly, "No beer."

"I'm a film star, remember. Film stars get awfully temperamental if they don't get what they want."

Bernice laughed, "Get it yourself then."

Valencio grinned, and went to the main drinks fridge, bringing back a carton, and then offering beer to the guests, though only a few of the men accepted. It was an occasion, and the women loved getting dressed up as much as possible, and drinking champagne. Some of them had new dresses they'd made themselves, designed by Amreeta, and helped with the sewing by Emma, who had a considerable talent. She liked helping with the activities that didn't attract men. Emma would always distrust men, even avoiding Mary's Gary.

The night was for the guests more than it was for Valencio. With the weather often cold and wet, Carol took care that there were always activities, including a social occasion every Saturday night. Belinda softly played music in the background. Farfalla moved around with her camera, taking photographs of couples, and of the few stray singles, who always wanted to be photographed with Vince. Valencio was working as much as Kurt and Hans, who were acting as waiters. Entertaining guests, making sure they had a good time. Loch Lomand was currently supporting nineteen people, not including the ones at Edinburgh University, living on the profits of the motel.

Inge was escorted by Paul, whose perseverance had her softening to him. There was no engagement. Inge wasn't ready to settle down. Kurt was now going out with one of the local girls, who was preening herself that she was preferred over the beautiful Loch Lomand women. She was there as well, looking a bit lost with Kurt working. Carol noticed and glanced at Evita, flicking her eyes toward the girl. Evita went to her side, and started talking to her. Carol glanced around the room, ensuring no others were left by themselves.

Helene called, "Time to take your seats if you want to watch, it's starting."

Quite a few were already there, having been watching for the last half hour, as the stars arrived in their limousines, greeted by the flashes of photographs. Tasha was with them, interested in seeing those she'd come to know. She wished they could have been there, but Valencio had been adamant. Others were expected to be not interested, and Hans was still in the other room, ready to serve drinks, although Kurt was off duty, and joined his girlfriend.

Almost all the guests were present. Not two young couples with toddlers, and not Feena, who was in one of the remaining one bedroom units, watching on her own TV.

As Valencio entered, Tasha noticed, and called to him, "Look Vince. It's Jean-Pierre."

Valencio glanced at the large screen, and said, "Who's the woman he's with?"

Tasha peered, and shook her head, but the unctuous voice of the commentator gave her name, and said that Jean-Pierre had to be the most eligible bachelor in the world, and maybe this one would be serious.

"He's dreamy," remarked one of the guests.

Another said, "Not as dreamy as Ben Bgorn. That's my favourite."

Tasha glanced at Valencio, her mouth quivering.

The Son of Satan had made a big impact, and the award for Best Motion Picture had been widely predicted. Schuster had his Best Director Oscar, and Vince had his second Oscar, though few knew about the first. The audience in Hollywood laughed when it was mentioned that Vince was notoriously shy, and his note was read out. 'Too busy on the farm!'

The audience at Loch Lomand also laughed, and called teasing comments, as he sat back in his chair, grinned sheepishly, and blushed bright red.

Six weeks later, May, the first of three foals was born. They called him Oscar. A script arrived for Valencio. He looked at the covering letter, resisted the temptation to read the script, and sent it back, still sealed, stating that he had no intention of doing any more acting.

Schuster swore. There were other good-looking actors, but he hadn't wanted that particular film reduced to a mere action movie. A few days later, Carol, in her office in the Entry Lodge, looked surprised at Jean-Pierre Dequienne, and the lesser known actor, Robert Lorusso, and agreed that they could go and find Vince, if they wanted. She checked her watch, and said, "He's taking a ride at the moment. If you want, ask for Gloria. She'll know where he's gone."

She wondered how they'd found where he lived. She knew that Vince only ever gave their London Post Office address.

Valencio was riding Emanuelle, with a trail of six beginners behind him, all on the quiet ponies. Behind them was Tasha on Honey, and behind her were four intermediate riders. Then Shona. They were walking slowly through the apple orchard, all the trees in full bloom, and buzzing with bees. He paused at the site of the old ruins, which they'd decided might have been a tiny church, as it was right next to the graves. Mary had planted climbing roses next to it, which she expected to look wonderful - next year.

Valencio slipped off his horse, and called, "If you want, have a look around. Hitching rail near the old chapel."

One of the visitors asked, "Can we collect apple blossom for our rooms?"

"If you're willing to brave the bees. But not off the very young trees in case they die."

He helped a child off Thunder, and patted the pony. They were very placid, these ponies. Very, very useful. Shona investigated a rabbit hole. There was almost always a dog or two following the rides. Luckily, none were aggressive.

Valencio looked up at the sound of a cantering horse, to see Gloria, with two riders following. He stared, and then laughed, walking to meet Jean-Pierre, shaking his hand, and also greeting Bobby.

Jean-Pierre said, "You got it!"

Valencio nodded. "It came in the mail a few days ago. Maybe they didn't like me not being there. They took their time!"

Bobby looked around, and said, "It's beautiful! No wonder you don't like to leave it."

Valencio nodded. "It is beautiful. Are you joining the ride?"

"Why not?"

"My lot will only be walking, but Tasha's four will go a different way soon, and they canter and take a few jumps."

"We'll come with you, and then afterwards, maybe you'll take us for a gallop."

"We thought we'd ask Carol if we can stay the night."

Tasha came forward, smiling, and gave each of them a hug. She liked them, and Jean-Pierre, especially, had been nice to her husband.

Valencio introduced Jean-Pierre and Bobby to the guests, most of them gaping at the famous film star, Jean-Pierre Dequienne. The new arrivals were genial, and there was soon a general relaxation. Valencio raised his voice, "Ready to go on?"

People started moving to their horses. Valencio glanced around, and then gave a piercing whistle. Two little girls appeared from behind shrubbery, and raced to their ponies. Her father lifted one up, and Valencio held the older girl's pony as she mounted by herself. He looked around, "Right, Wilma?"

A middle aged lady smiled and nodded. Fancy learning to ride a horse at her age!

Valencio mounted Emanuelle, who laid her ears back at Jean-Pierre. "She gets cranky," commented Valencio. "None of the guests ride this one, but she's a dear old girl, really." He patted her, and she stamped her foot.

The two actors turned to their own horses, two Percherons that Gloria had bought in March. They were to be 'chargers' when their guests dressed up as knights. Also useful for heavy guests.

Valencio led off, and the riders made their way further along the Adam Track, then up the steep route to the Kane Way, back along the old, old road as far as the small statue, allowing a stop for people to admire and touch. The spring was now diverted into a small pond surrounded by neat stones, though there was always a trickle of overflow crossing the road. Several took photographs, and Jean-Pierre and Bobby posed cheerfully, arms around guests, as requested.

Valencio watched, grinning. They must realize they were not allowed to upset the guests. When everyone seemed ready, he said, "We backtrack now to the Crossover, which takes us to the Heidi Track." All the tracks were well marked and sign posted. No-one wanted guests getting lost.

Bobby went with Tasha when the rides split up, saying he'd been in cowboy films, and could ride perfectly competently. Jean-Pierre stayed with Valencio, and brought up the rear, smiling as he watched the man who'd acted Son of Satan, taking care with his visitors. He knew all their names, and had Wilma, who looked nervous, right behind him. Even the two small children called him Vince, but they were happy and fearless, bouncing up and down on Thunder and Lightning, who ignored them totally, and just followed along behind Wilma's pony.

Valencio turned around once, and said quietly, "We often see deer around here, if we're quiet enough."

A little while later, he stopped his pony, and pointed. A buck looked down at them from above, before stepping away, nervously high stepped. Jean-Pierre smiled in pleasure. He'd been on African safaris, had seen wild animals before, but it was seeming very special this day, in this comparatively tame wilderness.

Jean-Pierre wanted to talk to Vince on his own, but had to wait as ponies were unsaddled. Valencio asked, "Do you still want a gallop?"

"Very much."

Bobby strolled over to them, and said, "That was a good ride back. I enjoyed it. I thought I'd relax with a swim now though." He added to Jean-Pierre, "Carol's given us a room each in the castle, and our luggage is in the bedrooms. I've had to promise autographs for any who want them."

"Do you give autographs, Vince?"

"No, but I don't mind photos." He turned back to the horses, and asked, "How well do you ride, Jean-Pierre?"

"Very well. Not polished, but I started out on Westerns, the same as Bobby."

"Can you jump?"

"Yes."

"You can have Sirius then. He's about twelve, but very fast. You'll like him."

A short time later, he pointed, and said, "We can race if you like. Jumps about four feet high, all well marked, no slippery takeoffs, and a good length of gallop."

Jean-Pierre hesitated, tempted, but said finally, "My director will kill me if I break a leg. Maybe I'd best not jump."

"A different route, then." Caesar snorted and plunged restlessly. "We won't race, and just follow me."

Caesar stretched out into a gallop within strides, but the route chosen was without jumps, and without hazards. After a while, the horses slowed as they started climbing, finally reaching a high point, where there was a view all around. There was a stone cairn, but the lists of names were not visible unless one knew the secret.

"Grey's Hill," Valencio commented. "We'd called it something else, but a local told us it was always Grey's Hill."

Jean-Pierre looked at Valencio, who stood beside his horse. He was looking very contented.

Valencio returned his look, and said, "Could anyone want anything more?"

Jean-Pierre said, "You can have this, and you can act as well."

Valencio shook his head. "It's dangerous for me, that environment. It could destroy me too easily, I think."

"You loved making Son of Satan. It was the best movie of the year, you won Best Actor." He added ruefully, "And against me, and I thought I acted better in that movie than I've ever acted."

Valencio said casually, "You won't want me back again then," and he turned to his horse and mounted. Caesar shifted restlessly.

Jean-Pierre asked, "When's your romance to be released?"

"Soon, I think," replied Valencio, a bit vaguely.

"And you're boycotting the premiere again."

"I'm not going. I don't think you'd call it a boycott."

Jean-Pierre said suddenly, forcefully, "Why? Why will you not act when you're brilliant at it?"

Valencio said, "I like to act. But it's what I said. I don't like the environment."

"What you said was that it's dangerous for you."

"So it is."

"Why is it so much more dangerous for you than anyone else?"

"Because I'm prey. Because of what I look like. It frightens me. I could hurt someone, and then I'd be in trouble."

"Are you Valencio Durano?"

Valencio said coolly, "That boy died a very long time ago. My name is Vincent McDonald." And suddenly he was galloping flat out down the broad, gently sloping track that took them back down the mountain. Sirius trotted round and round Jean-Pierre as he tried to mount, but at least waited until he had his feet in the stirrups, before taking off after Caesar.

Jean-Pierre had no chance to speak alone again to Valencio, who always seemed surrounded by crowds of people. He did speak to Tasha, who admitted she very much wanted to return to Hollywood, that she loved the excitement and colour.

"Vince says he's frightened of it."

"Vince is being stupid. We've been here four years. It's time we grew up."

Jean-Pierre asked softly, "Where were you before?"

Tasha asked him if he wanted a cup of coffee, the hint usually quite sufficient to discourage questions. Jean-Pierre accepted the coffee, and she fussed around finding him some biscuits. They were in the largest of the guests' sitting rooms. Belinda wandered in vaguely and started to play the piano.

Tasha was looking at her, and said, "All of us are scarred, and some are damaged. But Vince isn't damaged. He only thinks he is. He needs to become all he could be, and to stop hiding."

"So he was Valencio."

Tasha said, very softly, "He was Valencio. But no-one's going to tie him up and hurt him just because he's an actor, rather than a farm labourer."

"How badly was he hurt?"

"We don't really know. He would never talk about it. But I think very badly, especially early on, and that's not counting punishments."

"There was a rumour he killed someone once."

Tasha was silent, and finally said, "He fought a very long time, and they never trusted him not to attack. He wore cuffs on wrists and ankles, for eighteen years, as long as he was there, though no-one else did."

Jean-Pierre said, "For eighteen years."

Tasha nodded.

"The rest of you?"

"Gary's not one of us, just married to Mary. Neither, of course, are Hans and Kurt. The rest of us all came from the enclosures."

"The enclosures!"

Tasha said nervously, "Please don't tell him I said anything."

Jean-Pierre promised, "I won't tell him, or anyone else. Not even Bobby. There are widespread rumours, though."

Jean-Pierre, just before he and Bobby left, said to Vince, "You're probably right. It's a good place here, and Hollywood is not a good place." He pulled him closer, quickly, hugging him, but Valencio stiffened immediately, not understanding that the action had been purely affectionate. There was a script still in Jean-Pierre's suitcase, given to him by Schuster. He'd been supposed to get Vince to read it.

Valencio watched after the expensive car as they drove out. He felt angry. They should have persuaded him. He loved acting, and he wanted to do another film. Yet when a script arrived in the mail a week later, he glanced at the letter, impressed at the money offered, but sent it back unopened. He should not be silly, and anyway, he was needed. Thierry was breaking in Jack, Sonata and Tericai, Loch Lomand's first foals. Melanie was helping, and he wanted to help as well.

He was still watched, but now by medj women, who used the previously booked times, and then asked for extensions, which were usually granted, and sent regular weekly reports to Feena. They thought it was just a routine investigation, to report on the business, the people, and especially on the young man, Vincent McDonald. They also had a photograph and description of John Bellamy. If he appeared, they were to keep well out of his way, but provide as full a report as possible on what he did and said. Narzu-Han wanted to know how closely Bellamy was watching over the medj. The two so far had not aroused suspicion - they were not Ania, with that slightly different feel to them, and Valencio was accustomed to arousing interest, even before he'd been widely known as an actor.

The light and amusing romance was released, but did not create the impact that Son of Satan had done. The whipping scenes were not included.

A young man of eighteen, blonde, baby-faced, nicely built, took the interest of Peter Vojkovic. Kerry Vane smiled at the enormous man, and crossed his fingers that he would not be too much hurt. He would use Vojkovic. He had no other contacts, and Vojkovic could be of enormous benefit to him. Kerry Vane cried out when the Cossack entered his body for the first time, and there was a trace of blood afterwards. The Cossack decided that he should use a little more of the muscle relaxant next time he had a new one. And maybe a little more of the tranquilliser?

xdividerx

Late September, autumn. Clarence gave the routine rundown of activities at breakfast.

"Bogridge gymkhana on Saturday, those going in it should see Gloria for practice and for final allocation of horses, even if it's just Fancy Dress. Film this afternoon, Endurance, and this evening, Entre Nous. Tennis tournament this afternoon, Gary coordinating, just turn up at two o'clock. Vince, Emma and Thierry are apple and berry picking in the orchard. If anyone wants to help, they're welcome, but it's certainly not expected, and if you do five minutes, and decide you're not doing any more, that's fine, too."

He stopped. "Any questions?"

"Apple pie this evening?"

Clarence grinned. "It's the first harvest we've picked. I'm not at all sure they'll be edible. If so, maybe tomorrow."

Valencio said, "The horses love them. They might be a bit sour, but I eat them."

When the time came, Valencio had his tractor, and Thierry trailed five of their smallest ponies, with baskets on each side of them. She explained to the half dozen guests who were going with them. "The idea is that a picker has a pony close, fills up several buckets, which go in the side panniers, then walks the pony over to the trailer, leaves the full buckets there, and takes more empty buckets to fill up."

"Transport to the orchard?"

"Clarence is taking the little bus, and will go back after a while with a packed lunch for any who endure that long."

One of two elderly ladies said, "I'd appreciate that." She didn't really expect to do much picking, but it sounded a pleasant outing. And she could boast afterwards of working with the film star, Vince McDonald. The film star had three ladders on his trailer, and dozens of brand new plastic buckets. Even if they didn't taste good, the idea of harvesting their own fruit was attractive. Valencio no longer cut grass and made hay. There were too many guests, especially children, and too much possibility of accidents. In any case, there was plenty of money now to buy feed.

Narzu-Han, in Turkey, looked proudly and possessively at Feena, who was pregnant. Narzu-Han had sired many children. Now he would be a father.

Feena smiled at his expression, but asked, "Do you want the latest report on Vince?"

"Of course."

Feena said, "Her name is Amy, she's about sixty, medj of course, as he never notices a medj spy. She says he's very nice, very friendly, has a dog always at his heels, plus often a few children. They were picking apples, and his ladder was knocked over, so that he fell. She says she was sure he'd broken a leg, because it looked bent. But he didn't cry out, only swore a little, and made no sound when they got him onto the trailer and took him back to the castle. She said it turned out that it was only bruised, as he was walking again the day after, though limping."

She looked up, and commented, "Sounds like they get in a healer when they need one."

Narzu-Han nodded.

Feena looked back at the paper. "She says his wife acts as if cross with him sometimes, but she doesn't know why. All the guests seem to know he was in films, and each time anyone asks, he says he has too much to do at home, and is not doing any more acting." She glanced down at the report again, and said, "There's a few paragraphs about Thierry training some young horses, Tericai, Sonata, and Jack."

"Sonata?"

Feena referred to the report. "She must be a horse lover. She describes at least a dozen of their horses. Sonata, she says, is dapple grey, and very pretty."

Narzu-Han remembered an enclosure woman called Sonata. Extravagantly curved, lovely face. She couldn't talk properly - able to open her mouth only a small amount. It had been a punishment after she took a piece out of a penis. He asked, "Is there a woman called Sonata amongst them?"

"No, I made a full list early on, remember. None called Sonata."

Killed in a cull then, he supposed. He sighed. They really had been ruthless, and he remembered Valencio's words again, You are a part of an evil family, who does things that no civilized human being would do. He'd accepted what he'd grown up with, accepted the periodic culls as just an unfortunate necessity, assured that the deaths were painless. Valencio. So full of life now. Happy now. Would he have stopped the taking of slaves if he'd become leader? He didn't know. He knew he'd never regret owning Valencio.

Narzu-Han thanked Feena, and watched the films again. Struck by the first, amused by the second - not familiar enough with the genre of romance to catch the hint of satire, but loving it when he saw his boy playing with swords. There was that big man close to him - something in the expression. He really thought that he'd have to intervene if Valencio was lured back to Hollywood. He'd be prey, and Valencio needed to be protected. But it seemed he'd decided for himself that he was better at the home that Bellamy had made for his medj.

Valencio was beginning to be restless. He'd been home eight months, and the weather was turning colder. He suggested a holiday somewhere warmer, but Tasha was scheming, and refused. She wanted him restless. When the time was right, she'd make her move. Schuster and Schoen were waiting for him, Schuster convinced that no other actor was suitable for the lead role in Papacy Scandal. Meantime, Schuster was making Murder in Chelsea, with John Van der Post and Nikole Kristos.

But it was Inge and Evita, not Tasha, that brought Valencio back to acting. They still often gathered in the ballroom after dinner, and one evening, Inge handed Valencio a script, and said, "You're the professional. Evita and I want to audition for parts, but we're undecided what to go for. Will you read it for us, and see what you think?"

Evita said, "It's to be made in England, part in their London studios, and part on location at a castle in Exeter."

"A full length film?"

"Made for TV I think, but Laurie wasn't quite clear on that."

Valencio started flipping through the script, and after a while, hooked a chair around in front of him, put his feet on it, settled back, and became totally immersed. Inge winked at Evita. Connie frowned at him. There was no wizard to make things instantly clean and tidy with a spell, and she'd rebuked him so often for putting his feet up on the furniture.

Two hours later, Valencio put down the script and frowned into the air. It was set in Regency times, but a love story, not a mere romance. There was tragedy, acceptance, and a dawning hope at the end. It was not a simple story.

Inge sat down with him expectantly. He asked, "What part are you thinking of?"

"The bride."

"That's optimistic, a starring role."

Evita said, "I want to be the viscount's young sister, and I even look a bit like you."

Valencio was puzzled.

Inge explained, "I probably won't get the part of the bride, not experienced enough, but if we get you to audition for the part of the viscount, Laurie promises us both reasonable parts."

There was a hush. Tasha waited, as well as the girls.

Valencio flipped through the script again, briefly, and said, "Tasha could go for the part of the bride's mother, if she wanted."

Tasha beamed, "You'll do it then?"

Valencio said casually, "I'd need another serving of apple pie and custard, of course. And a coffee."

The girls raced to get what he asked for. He said to Tasha, "Will that do? London, not Hollywood?"

Tasha smiled, "That'll do for now."

In London, ten days later, Tatiana's husband, Hugh, shook hands and hid his resignation. It was as if his wife had an enormous family, and overnight visitors were routine, whenever any of them had business in London.

Tatiana asked, "How long?"

"Auditions for us all, probably a few days. But if we get parts, we'll rent a place for the duration."

Tatiana smiled, "I'll love having you here."

Inge said, "We're almost bound to get parts, our agent promised."

"Maybe not the parts we especially want, of course."

"You, Vince?"

"I'm to audition for the part of a viscount, but my English upper crust accent leaves a lot to be desired. I may miss out."

Evita said, "I'm pretty sure they want you, and they know how you speak, the same as me. They'll probably drop in a hint that we were educated in Europe, or something."

Hugh said, "It'd be interesting to watch the auditions. But I can't be spared from work."

Inge said, "It's pretty tedious mostly. An awful lot of waiting around, and then you say a few lines, and often get dismissed straightaway. Not what they're looking for."

Valencio said, "It depends who the director is. Maybe if we do become involved, I could ask if you're allowed to watch some of the acting."

Hugh beamed, "I'd love that."

Valencio, the following day, did his audition early, just a few lines with the Viscount's father, the Duke, who was telling him sternly that he was over thirty, and it was his duty to get married, and have heirs - legitimate heirs. Valencio looked bored and arrogant, but finally conceded that he would go to the Presentation Ball and look over this year's crop of debutantes.

At the back of the room sat a fat man in an expensive suit, Anthony Hopkins, the producer. A thin, worried looking man was doing the organization. He introduced himself as Tim Bodie, but said that he would probably not be directing. Laurie was there as well, seeing three of those auditioning were on his books, and Tasha, he presumed, if she, also, won a part.

Hopkins raised his voice. "McDonald, you may stay."

Valencio frowned at him slightly, he didn't like being addressed as McDonald, but then shrugged and took a seat, as a dozen more actors said the same few lines as he had said. Some were dismissed, some told to wait, and pointed to where Valencio sat.

Bodie spoke quietly to Hopkins, and then said, "Vince, you have the part. The rest of you, if you wish, can have parts as assorted acquaintances, details to be worked out later. Usual pay rates, see your agents for details."

The eight men rose, smiling. Work was hard to come by.

Bodie said, "The bride next. And I want you, Vince, to stand close to any possibles, so I can see what you look like together. The same for the sister, also mother and father. You have to look like family." Except for the bride, Valencio assumed.

Inge was considered for the bride, but passed over in favour of someone more experienced. Valencio was relieved. He had to finally fall in love with the bride casually chosen, and a passionate kiss to little Inge somehow seemed to him not quite right. The chosen actress was called Justine Howard, and was a small woman, with a winsome face, and considerable experience.

As instructed, he pulled her close and kissed, and she showed fear, remarking afterwards, with a twinkle, "At least you're not Satan's Son this time."

Inge was one of the hopefuls kept aside to be given another role. Evita, however, was chosen for her preferred role, the young sister of the viscount, after they stood side by side, and their faces and colouring compared. The 'parents,' the Duke and Duchess, had then to be chosen with regard to the son and daughter. It was late, and Tasha had still not auditioned. She didn't mind what part she had, but was auditioning for the part of the bride's mother. Not a big part, but an important part. Tasha adored being part of a film, but was not good at acting.

The day after, it was settled, filming to start in a month, director still not decided. Laurie beamed at the four who presented themselves in his office, afterward. He ran through contracts, and asked whether they were willing to be interviewed afterwards, "Though probably only Evita, as the sister, will be wanted."

Evita looked doubtfully at Valencio, who said casually, "I follow John's simple rule, no autographs, no interviews. I think interviews could be embarrassing, and autographs are incredibly tedious. It's up to you."

Inge said to Evita, "We're not like Vince, whom everybody wants. And our past is merely that we finished school last year."

But Evita said firmly, "No interviews, but I guess I'll do autographs if anyone wants my autograph."

Inge said, "The same for me."

Tasha agreed. She had a small part, but might have a few lines to say.

Valencio asked, "Any idea yet who's to direct?" It was an important question. The director was effectively the actors' boss.

Laurie answered, "I've been in touch with Schuster. He's busy himself, but has suggested Ashley Vernstein might be interested in putting his name forward."

Valencio said, surprised, "You rang Schuster?"

"He's very interested in your career. You might even find him visiting."

Valencio said, "It's not exactly an important film."

Evita turned on him, "It's a wonderful film, a love story!"

"Sorry. I only meant that it's not the sort of big budget film that Schuster gets involved in."

Inge asked, "How's Ashley to work with?"

"He's fine, not as experienced as Schuster, of course, but he's fine."

Laurie piled his papers, "I'll have contracts ready for signing by tomorrow. Meantime, I just need to talk to Vince for a few minutes."

Tasha stood, "We'll wait outside then."

Inge gave Valencio a curious look, but Valencio just waited as the women left.

Laurie said, "Schuster told me you cannot do scenes when you get tied up."

Valencio nodded, "I made a fool of myself when asked to do a perfectly harmless whipping scene. I'd probably do the same thing again. No point trying."

"Why?"

Valencio evaded, "Past history. All of us bear scars."

"Schuster knows, I think, but he wouldn't tell me."

Valencio said, "There is no need to go into it. The worst that happens in this film is that the viscount falls off his horse, and I assume that'll probably be a stunt man."

Laurie nodded, "Undoubtedly."

He glanced again at the papers on his desk, and said, "Your name is known now, and I think it may become a higher profile film than was planned. All that means at this stage is that there might be more money to play with for the producer, better facilities, maybe. We can use your name, of course, as last year's Oscar winner, but we'll still talk about you as the shy and retiring mystery farm boy." He grinned, "The note at the Academy Awards, that you're too busy on the farm to collect your Oscar... It could have made influential people very hostile, but doesn't seem to have done. You can have as much work as you want - Hollywood, London, wherever you want."

Valencio asked curiously, "How much is just my looks? I'm thirty-five now. I wonder if I'll still have work offered when I'm fifty."

"Probably not a role like Satan's Son, which required physical perfection." Laurie paused, and looked seriously at Valencio, "You're a great actor, Vincent. I think you can work into old age."

Valencio grinned ruefully, "In old age, maybe, I won't have perverts like Ben Bgorn grabbing my bottom!"

Laurie laughed, and asked, "Is that why you don't like Hollywood?"

Valencio grinned sheepishly, "Mostly. Schuster gave me bodyguards, so I wouldn't hit anyone that groped. Like a chap called Henderson, who promised to ruin my career."

"Is there anyone whom you would absolutely not like to work with? Ben Bgorn, I assume. Anyone else?"

"Peter Vojkovik. I will not work again with Peter Vojkovik."

"I'll make a note. Things like that are important."

Valencio said gratefully, "Thank you, Laurie."

Maybe acting was not as dangerous as he thought. Laurie was prepared to look after him, Schuster as well, and Jean-Pierre. He knew that Jean-Pierre had been somewhat attracted, but he'd never allowed it to affect his actions. Jean-Pierre and Bobby had been together for years. He liked Bobby as well. He guessed it was as Tasha said. He was being a bit silly, and maybe he should at least read scripts that were sent to him.

A month later, the arrogant viscount, his sister at his side, galloped Thoroughbreds, following hounds in full cry. It was a fox hunt, as the English aristocracy had enjoyed for hundreds of years before it was banned. Both Evita and Valencio had good horses, Ashley relieved that the pair of them were competent riders. Vince rode sloppily, in the eyes of the horse handler, although Evita was alright.

A camera rode smoothly on a vehicle next to them, and the viscount had to grin back at his sister, carefree instead of arrogant for a change, just before the horses take a large jump. The stunt man soared through the air, flying off his horse and falling hard. The viscount was arranged on the ground, eyes closed and head bleeding, as the hunt streamed on, including the sister, as beautiful and as callous as himself.

A few hunt followers gathered around. A grizzled farmer said quietly to another, "If he dies, our daughters will be safer, at least."

"The last of the line, isn't he, not counting the daughter?"

"Who inherits?"

"The old Duke's still alive, of course."

Narzu-Han's report. Galina said, "We've placed a spy in the camera crew, though we had to use magic to get him in. He's medj, and experienced at camera-work, and thinks he's working for a gossip magazine, so he's very happy with two lots of pay coming in. He said that Vince was friendly, learned all their names very quickly, and seems to be having a wonderful time. His wife has a small part, though she's not been called on to act as yet. Two of the youngest of the medj, Evita and Inge, also have parts. Evita has quite an important part."

"How old are they?"

"Still in their teens."

Probably only twelve when taken then. Or even younger.

Galina referred back to her notes. "Neil says he's a brilliant actor, and did the bit when he was supposed to be confused and in pain from his head injury very well indeed. He's not temperamental, as stars often are, and works easily and well with the director, who's the same one as in Aegean Romance." Galina smiled. She'd asked Neil to put in any funny bits. She liked to amuse the boss. "He had to have lessons in horse riding, as the riding instructor says he knows gallop and full stop, and nothing in between. So every day for three weeks, he was trying to do something that Neil said was a collected trot, but yawning over it."

Narzu-Han smiled. Trust his boy.

Galina said, "There was something else. I don't know how important it is. Neil said that he overheard talk that a certain person wants him beaten up, his looks destroyed. Neil said it was an unreliable source, and it probably means nothing."

Narzu-Han was a wealthy man again, and didn't need to stint. He didn't want his beautiful boy becoming ordinary in looks. He didn't want him hurt, either. He said, "I wish I could give him a wizard bodyguard."

Galina said, "We can place a wizard within apparation range, and have Neil call him if Vince appears to be in any danger."

Narzu-Han frowned, and said finally, "Something more active, I think. Have someone investigate, and if there is such a threat, the problem should be dealt with before any action is taken to hurt Vince."

Galina nodded, "I'll see what can be done." She changed the subject, "How's the baby?"

Narzu-Han said proudly, "Very bright indeed. You can't usually tell when they're so small, but we can tell."

Galina smiled at his pride, and wondered if her original supposition about Vince McDonald might, after all, be correct. He showed the same pride when she told him how popular Vince was. On the other hand, she now knew for certain that the group at Loch Lomand was known by British Anirage as 'Bellamy's medj,' rescued from lives as slaves of the evil Khatabi family of Morocco. But how did Narzu-Han know him? He was a strong advocate of law and order, and surely could never have been part of it.

She'd never asked. Narzu-Han was easy to get on with normally, but had little tolerance for impertinent questions. Could he have visited at some time, maybe? Been offered the use of the slaves as part of hospitality? But Narzu-Han liked women, loved his wife. He would never have asked for a boy! Could he have helped the great wizard rescue them? That was more likely.

It was a mystery that Galina would have liked to solve, but not at the risk of disturbing Feena, so happy with her husband and little daughter.

Investigation is easy when a person can be made to tell anything required, and then made to forget that he was ever questioned. Valencio was quite exposed on location. Yet he felt perfectly safe, made friends with a few of the locals, who'd been given small parts, and went with them to the local pub after work several times. The third time, the gossip was of a pair of male strangers, who'd been found, lost and confused, finally identified as minor criminals, usually residing in Liverpool. There was nothing to say that their presence had anything to do with the film being made nearby, and no extra precautions were taken. In any case, filming was almost finished there. The next scenes would be at a 'ballroom.'

The Loch Lomand crew were mostly enjoying themselves, Valencio engrossed in his part, not yet challenging, and Evita thrilled to have such an important role, though admitting that she felt the lack of formal training. Tasha thought that the workaday London studio was infinitely inferior to Hollywood, though at least she was involved, and would be for nearly all the movie, as the bride's personal maid. Inge was taking a close interest in the coordination, and finally confided that what she thought would really be great, would be to direct, or produce, not act.

Some very much more challenging scenes were ahead, and Ashley sent a message to his friend and mentor for help.

Valencio beamed when he turned and saw Schuster quietly watching, going to him, shaking his hand. They were at a turning point in the movie, and Ash had been undecided, wanting one thing one day, and another the next. But Schuster took charge for a couple of weeks, and Valencio knew that it had made the difference. The love story would be far more than a trite romance.

He tried to explain to the others what Schuster had done. That emotions didn't have to make sense, but yet there had to be a reason, and an origin. That now there was a buildup, rather than a confusion. That Schuster had pulled the strands together.

Evita said, "So far my character has almost ignored the poor 'bride,' so how am I going to show my change of heart?"

Valencio handed her a copy of the script, indicated the page, and said, "I'll play the sister, you play the bride, and I'll show you how I'd play it."

Evita looked at him afterwards, "You didn't seem to do anything much at all, and yet we can tell."

"If you believe in your part, sometimes things come naturally. But a lot is technique, and what I did then, is simply technique."

Evita nodded slowly. "When this is over, I'll take formal lessons, I think."

"You're doing well without formal training. But it helps, all the same."

"Did you have any formal training?"

"Some, in between films, but there were only a few months each time."

"Your acting in Summer in Rome - I think you deserved that Oscar, as well as last year's."

Tasha said, "I didn't watch it. I didn't want to."

Valencio said, "I haven't seen it myself since freedom, only once when I was a kid. But I suspect the Oscar was mostly to console my mother."

Inge said, "It was deserved. I think so, as well."

Tasha said, "I'll make sure and watch it soon."

Valencio shrugged, "If you want, though it's ancient history. And that's the film responsible for my loss of freedom. I don't want to see it."

"Another cup of coffee?"

Valencio smiled, grateful. He wasn't planning on admitting that he'd tried to watch it, and then couldn't seem to stop crying.

The report in March. "Neil says it's going to be a very good movie, with a great deal more impact than he would have expected. He says that the electricity between Vince and Justine was amazing, though there was no talk of an affair. That Evita seemed to become better and better. The actors have dispersed now, and it's expected to be released around July, or even later."

"So there was only that one incident of a man making overtures, and he was rejected with reasonable courtesy."

"As far as Neil knows."

"Any talk of another movie?"

"Evita is returning to London in April, with a part in an ongoing series, but nothing for Vince."

"You have someone in place in Loch Lomand?"

"At intervals through the year, and a request to advise if there's cancellations. But it seems that quite a few of their guests have started to book from year to year, and there's a few who seem almost permanent."

"I'm surprised it's so popular. They don't really seem to be offering much."

"They offer more than what appears on the surface. I think a lot of it is what I said a long time ago. They are happy, and seem to be able to give a little of that to their guests."

Narzu-Han smiled. His boy was happy. Poor little Emma was happy. Even Ingrid, whom he was paying for, and had never met - she was happy.

xchapter endsx