page206 (1/2)

The return of Estoraof an endless streausted in a fury around the castle turrets and leaked with icy fingers through s, but despite Karigan’s involveood deal of it, for there was a certain pre-wedding at Zachary presiding over affairs like the intended couple they were, and it all cut into Karigan’s gut no matter how she tried to dull the pain

There were otherwas not one of Mara’s strong points and the Rider ledgers were badly in need of Karigan’s attention Second, there was Condor who had returned froal She spenthi on those days that were not so fiercely wintry

And finally, there was the day all the Riders anticipated, both old and new: Mara’s release fro and official return to duty as Chief Rider Yates escorted her fro, which she had never seen before Mara was met with applause from friends who had striven to make their quarters as warm and homey as one could ht tapestries and artwork

Mara oohed and aahed at the appropriate moments as Yates showed her the decoration and the cozy co in Mara’s eyes, likely of happiness, but also of loss over the Rider barracks that had been ho was a whole new experience

When Yates took Mara to her rooone to in order to find just the right furnishings, and told her Garth was sorry he could not be there to show it all to her himself When the door was opened, Mara wasby her favorite artist, a replacement set of books for those that had been lost in the fire, wars and quilts, and more

Finally Mara’s tears flowed in full, and Karigan thought the deep healing of her friend had finally come full circle

SECRETS

Laren stood before the door to Lady Coutre’s parlor The Weapon Willis guarded it, so she knew Lady Estora ithin She’d not been looking forward to this conversation, but it was time Tiain brushed aside She tugged her shortcoat straight and knocked

After a brief reeted by the dohters before the fire, engaged in needlework and sipping tea Laren bowed

“Good afternoon, Captain,” Lady Coutre said, looking up from her embroidery “This is a surprise”

“I apologize for the intrusion,” Laren said

“Have you a e for us?”

Laren ses The lady’s two younger daughters, focused on needle and thread, paid her scant attention, but Lady Estora’s regard was rapt, and even hopeful

“No,” Laren said “I bear no ht have some words with Lady Estora”

“Certainly, Captain Won’t you join us? I’ll have Priscilla fetch you some tea”

Laren shifted her weight from one foot to the other “Thank you, but I wish to speak with your daughter alone It is Rider business in regard to her forthco role as queen” It was certainly the truth