“It is impossible to tell. There is the travel to Forteviot. Hoping King Kenneth will be in residence. Waiting for audience with him. It could take a fortnight. Or longer.”
Orfarlonger.
“Daughter, tell me I may trust you to behave decorously in my absence.”
Decorously? Her?
Father hurried to add, “As befits the dignity of a Caledonian princess. In a very true way, you carry the weight of all our people upon your shoulders.”
Well, that could not be good. On the other hand, she could show them of what a Caledonian woman was made.
“Tell me,” Father insisted, “that I may trust you.”
He too had a lot laid upon him. The need to resolve this morass fairly, yet without causing strife. To visit the king. He did not want to have to worry about her while he was gone.
Yet he knew full well what she was. No wonder he sought reassurance.
“You have my word. I will behave as befits.”
He scowled.
“As befits a Caledonian princess,” she added.
He did not look satisfied, but he let it go, perhaps figuring it the best he would receive from her.
She said, “I hardly know how to behave around Rohr.”
“I doubt you will see much of him. After the dressing-down his father gave him, he will scarcely dare present himself.”
“And the young woman? The one who wishes me dead?”
Father looked uncomfortable. “I doubt very much she will have the gall to put herself forward either.”
Darlei hoped not. She could still hear the hate in Caragh’s voice.
“Are you sure you must take Urfet with you? Can you not leave him for me?” She might at least turn to Urfet if she felt threatened.
“I am taking him with me. There seems to be a great deal of friction between him and Master Rohr. In fact, Rohr accused Urfet of causing the injury he now bears.”
So, she would have no one to whom she might turn, save Deathan.
“Very well, Father. I ask you only, do not leave me here too long.”
“Certainly, I will not.”
Because despite Deathan’s presence, there was ill will here for her. She could just feel it.
*
Deathan paced thewall, awaiting the outcome of that meeting. He knew it had ended when he saw King Caerdoc come out and cross the grass of the bailey to speak to a group of his men, including Urfet. No sign of Darlei and no hint as to how things had concluded.
He watched as the group of Caledonians crossed the grass back toward their quarters.
Preparing to leave?
He drew a long breath. He would have to resign himself to losing her, then. At least for a time. Could he bear it?
No.
