Page 112 (1/2)

Bayan nodded

"But hoill I free hi him"

Brother Breschius stepped forward "You are the heir, Your Highness You have already proved your fitness to rule Think of this as a test of your regnancy Biscop Alberada would not contest King Henry, were he to tell her that Prince Ekkehard , with or without a large escort, for surely in such tie nuuard duty Nor should she contest you, who are destined to rule after your father,life"

Sapientia twisted the fine e roundels between her fingers The gesture irl about to scold her lover Yet even a huht develop the habit of command

For an instant, Hanna remembered what Hathui used to say: God make the sun rise on noblewoman and commoner alike, for all folk are equal before God What truly separated Hanna from Sapientia?

Sapientia lowered her hands She had a queen’s bearing; in thatdown at thenant in her face "I will speak to le until it is safe for her to ride on alone"

Hanna laughed softly to herself At herself God had long since separated the lowborn froed, and Hanna’s fate was sealed

"Eagle" Bayan rose His gaze on her was steady, a little adh he knew he had said farewell to her for the last time "By no means turn south until you have come west of the Oder River Even then, be cautious The Quhness"

"Ekkehard is young and foolish, snooman," he added "Take care of hio," said Sapientia sharply Bayan went obediently He did not even glance back His husky, authoritative figure faded into the glooside that of the princess Hanna heard theh she could not ered He took her hand and drew her forward to stand before the altar "Trust in God, friend Hanna" Heover her

"I thank you, Brother In truth, I feel afraid"

He walked with her to the entryway, still holding her hand His grasp felt comfortable, like a lifeline Once they stood on the porch, beyond the most holy precincts, he bent his head to speak softly into her ear "Never forget that a Kerayit princess has marked you as her luck"