that my loyalties were being questioned. It doesn’t look good to throw the Cali-dorian crown to the floor.”
“It was an accident.” Thelonius turned to look at Edyon. “You’re young and, yes, you’ll make a few mistakes— haven’t we all?”
“But one of the first things you told me was that we must learn to balance the power of the lords—having them scorn me doesn’t seem the right way to go about it.”
“They won’t scorn you when they get to know you a little better, and this tour will give the opportunity for just that.” Thelonius patted Edyon’s shoulder and then gripped it. “It’s also an opportunity for you to get to know your new country. I’m pleased beyond words that my son is riding with me.” He glanced at Edyon and added, “There is another purpose too. I’m sure you’re correct about the threat from Aloysius. We’ll inspect our defenses, the main ports, and the northern wall. The lords will see how serious we are about maintaining our strong borders and defenses.”
Soon they arrived in the fortified harbor town of Gaross, the hometown of Lord Regan, which had the honor of being the first stop on the tour. It was only a short distance from Calia and renowned for being picturesque. The castle was impressive, set on numerous terraced levels looking out over the blue sea. The stonework was practical, forming a strong defense, but also attractive, as it was softened in appearance by plants and flowers. On each terrace there were ponds and fountains.
Regan proudly showed a small group, including Edyon, around the main terrace. “It’s certainly very beautiful,” Edyon said.
“My architect is a genius. We have excellent views along the coast. He has built beauty into functionality,” Regan replied. “We are a strong defense site, protecting the coast up to Calia and down to the South Stacks.”
One of the other lords was looking back at the castle and commented, “Your famous architect hasn’t sorted out your ruin yet, Regan.”
Edyon had noticed the crumbling stone walls covered with vines to one side of the castle but thought they looked quite attractive. “A ruin?”
Regan smiled. “It’s a bit of a joke among some of the lords. The walls are not a ruin. I had begun extending the castle years ago, to add another meeting room, a gallery, a few bedchambers, and more servant quarters, but when the war intervened, building stopped. Then the stonemasons were needed to build the great wall at our borders, and I decided the extra rooms weren’t necessary—the workers and the money could be put to better use. One must make some sacrifices for one’s country.”
Edyon looked at the extent of Regan’s home and thought that there weren’t too many sacrifices being made. But still, Edyon had to court the lords, and that included Lord Regan. A bit of flattery would do no harm, and on impulse Edyon said, “Well, I think it’s all wonderful. Perhaps your architect could design a home for me one day in Abask.”
Regan smiled. “Of course. I’d like to see you tame that land. And I’m sure that would bring you much pleasure—bringing culture to the uncivilized Abask.”
And somehow, from the way Regan looked at Edyon, he knew he was referring to March.
I wasn’t trying to tame March or civilize him . . . He didn’t need me to. He didn’t need to change at all. He was perfect as he was. It’s you who needs taming. It’s you who’s barely civilized.
Edyon had to get away from Regan. The man made his blood boil.
March never had this wealth or position. He’d lost everything: home, family, friends. And now even Calidor has been forbidden to him. Yes, I know he tried to kill you, but . . . but . . . he lost everything . . . even me.
Edyon stormed away, into the castle, escaping down a long corridor and snatching up a small vase from a cabinet that he passed. Holding it in his hands made him feel better. Calmer.
This was the second time he’d taken something in the last few weeks—he’d stolen Regan’s gloves on that awful day when he’d seen March in Calia’s dungeons. Edyon was dismayed that the urge to steal had overwhelmed him again. But he didn’t put the vase back.
Edyon went onto another terrace overlooking the sea. The view was framed by lemon trees and flowering plants that attracted birds that hovered around, darting in to taste the nectar. It was all beautiful and all Regan’s.