ChapterSix

I slipped away from Nee and Bran when they joined with some of her cousins, and sought out Vidanric speaking quietly with Savona.

Savona's grin when he saw me was too large, and he gave me an extravagant bow. "I see that your affections have turned elsewhere, my lady. And while I myself am heartbroken at losing you, I couldn't wish you a better replacement."

Vidanric's face showed the faintest reddening at Savona's antics, and I had a distinct feeling that a twelve year old Vidanric would have shoved Savona for such ridiculousness. Soon-to-be-King Vidanric only glowered at the offending party.

Then it was time for Court to begin, and I found myself once again facing a room full of nobles, even if they were now known names and faces, even if I couldn't call them friends. I shivered at the familiarity, and Savona put a hand on my arm, not in a flirtatious manner, but like an older brother reassuring me that I would be okay.

I didn't really listen to Vidanric's explanation of recent events. I watched the faces of those around me. Whatever Flauvic's lineage or personality, he had grown up among them. There was shock that the Hill Fold, who were nearly legend to most of them, would have interfered in our politics. There was also a kind of awe that Vidanric's claim to the throne was upheld over whatever right Flauvic believed he had. This alone would prevent future uprisings as many would be intimidated by the blatant allegiance of the Hill Folk.

Vidanric left a few moments for questions, which were numerous, and far too probing for my taste, but he handled it with his usual grace before inviting everyone to enjoy the refreshments that had been brought in while he talked.

Small groups formed as I could just see the light of new material shining in their eyes. I stayed close to Nee, and attempted to answer as few questions as possible.

I was glad when we finally left. I knew Vidanric stayed behind, and I felt a moment of guilt for the appearance of abandonment, but also selfishly feeling that I should take this opportunity for peace while I could take it.

I wrote a nice long letter to Oria, and then sought out the library. I didn't have to wait long before Vidanric came in with a stack of letters in his hand.

He smiled. "What a pleasant surprise. I will admit I'm surprised to see you up and about – I thought you'd be sleeping off these past days. No one would blame you."

"I will when you do." I answered, moving to sit opposite the writing desk. "Can I help you with anything?"

He grimaced. "Perhaps if I knew where I wanted to start. Actually, that is a lie. I would much prefer to leave this behind and spend this time with you."

I felt myself reddening. "I wanted to help, not create a mutiny."

He smiled. "I can't begin to express how happy I am. It is so refreshing to find the Meliara of your letters sitting before me. I don't want to scare you away with all the dreadfully boring aspects of ruling."

I realized that Vidanric was putting up a defense. He was afraid of losing me because of the task of ruling. He was afraid of using my help, having an appearance of this possible partnership, and then have it disintegrate because of the change in his status.

He moved one pile of letters closer to him. "I propose that as soon as these matters are addressed, we retire to a more comfortable location, and perhaps enjoy a hot meal together."

I agreed, though we decided to stay in the library alcove where fewer would disturb us. I read as I listened to Vidanric's pen scratch away.