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They had discussed it years ago, throwaway conversations about their daughter's future. Jonathan mentions it first, King Barnesh of Maren's son is about Kally's age…. We could always improve the relations between Tortall and Tusaine…It's nothing serious, no definite plans, just musings and Thayet always nods, did you know Kally wants to be a knight?
When Carthak falls, the hopes of the empire lying on one Kaddar Illiniat, Jonathan knows the time has come. He spends the day in nearly endless meetings with his advisors, going over contracts and examining the proposal from all sides. His daughter should marry the new Emperor.
"No." He is shocked when he hears the word, loosed like an arrow from her lips. The force behind it renders him speechless for a time.
Finally, he can work his tongue again. "No?" No is not a valid response, not an option.
"No, Jonathan of Conté," she repeats, standing straight and chin held high. "Has is been so long since you have heard the word that you've forgotten what it means?"
"Thayet, this isn't a simple matter!" He is up from his chair, tiredness forgotten as he paces around the room. "I am not one of the children, I'm not asking for a sweet before bed. This is about our daughter."
"Yes, she is our daughter, not a pawn or a plaything for political gain. I do not want a marriage of state for her." Her eyes are blazing, but Jon can see pain, fear, and worry fighting beneath. "You have the mind of a king, but the heart of a father. Which will you choose to listen to?"
Jonathan knows that they need this. This alliance, this security with Carthak. That is enough for him to make his decision and he opens his mouth to tell her so.
Thin fingers tangle in his sleeve, a hand encircles his wrist. "Wait. Just wait a few years, until Kalasin is older…"
He makes the mistake of looking down into her distraught face.
"Let me have a few more years with her," Thayet whispers.
An emotion that Jonathan cannot control makes him nod. "We'll wait."
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