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Aave the Weapon any notice “I see It is h I know Zachary has your best interests in mind”

“His best interests,” Estora muttered

Amberhill rubbed his chin “Yes, I can see how the restriction chafes at you Perhaps I can put in a good word on your behalf?”

His words cal noble had any influence with his cousin, but she appreciated the offer of help and wasn’t about to turn down an ally

“Would you care to accompany me?” she asked

He bowed again and offered her his arm “It would be my honor”

He kept her laughing all the way across the castle grounds and into the castle itself and she ale informed her she would find Zachary in his new study in the ing By the time they reached his door, her mood had altered favorably, but now she must face Zachary

“I wish to see the king,” she told the Weapon at the door

He bowed, “I’ with—”

“I a ‘I’m sorry, my lady,’” she said

“But—”

Bolstering her resolve with a deep breath, she reached past the Weapon, knocked on the door, and ad for permission to enter Zachary and his counselors stared and asted silence Colin Dovekey was first to respond and rose from his chair with a bow, followed by Captain Mapstone and Castellan Sperren

“My lady,” Zachary said “And Xandis?”

Auish smile on his face

“I’m sorry, my lord,” said the Weapon at the door “I tried to—”

“It’s all right, Willis Carry on”

“Yes, sire”