Jimmy laughed, a genuine sound of amusement. “What problem? You just get to order people around and blame mistakes on someone else.”
Laurie laughed. “I doubt Arutha and Lyam would agree.”
“Well, kings and princes are a different sort, but most of the nobles around here show me nothing. Old Volney has some wits, but he’s not too anxious to be here anyway. The rest just want to be important. Hell, musician, you should marry her. You might improve the breed. “
Laurie swung playfully at Jimmy, laughing as the brash youngster easily ducked away, also laughing. A third laugh caused Laurie to turn.
A short, slender, dark-haired man in fine clothing of simple cut stood observing the proceedings. “Pug!” Laurie exclaimed, jumping up to embrace the man. “When did you arrive?”
“About two hours ago. I’ve had a brief meeting with Arutha and the King. They’re off with Earl Volney now, discussing preparations for tonight’s welcoming banquet. But Arutha hinted there was something strange going on and suggested I look for you.”
Laurie indicated Pug should take a seat, and he sat beside Jimmy. Laurie made the introduction, then said, “I’ve much to tell, but first: how are Katala and the boy?”
“Fine. She’s in our suite now, gossiping with Carline.” Laurie again looked depressed at mention of the Princess. “William ran off somewhere after Fantus.”
“That thing is yours?” exclaimed Jimmy.
“Fantus?” Pug laughed. “You’ve seen him, then. No, Fantus belongs to no one. He comes and goes as he pleases, which is why he’s here without anyone’s leave.”
Laurie said, “I doubt he’s on deLacy’s guest list. Look, I’d best catch you up on matters of importance.” Pug glanced at Jimmy, and Laurie said, “This fount of trouble here has been at the center of things since the first. He’ll hear nothing he doesn’t already know.”
Laurie told of what happened, with Jimmy adding a few bits of information the singer missed. When they were done, Pug said, “This business of necromancy is an evil thing. If nothing else you said speaks of dark powers at work, that does. This is more the province of priests than magicians, but Kulgan and I will aid in whatever way we can. “
“Then Kulgan came from Stardock as well?”
“There would have been no stopping him. Arutha was his student, remember? Besides, though he’d never admit to it, I think he misses his arguments with Father Tully. And there was no doubt Tully would officiate at Arutha’s wedding. I think that’s where Kulgan is now, arguing with Tully.”
Laurie said, “I’ve not seen Tully, but he was due to arrive this morning with those from Rillanon traveling at a more sedate pace than the King’s party. At his age he tends to prefer things quiet.”
“He must be past eighty now.”
“Closer to ninety, but he hasn’t lost a step. You should hear him around the palace in Rillanon. Let a squire or page fail at his lessons and he’ll talk blisters on the boy’s back. “
Pug laughed. Then as an afterthought, he said, “Laurie, how fare things with you and Carline?”
Laurie groaned and Jimmy hid a chuckle. “That is what we were speaking of when you appeared. Good, bad, I don’t know.”
Sympathy showed in Pug’s dark eyes. “I know the feeling, friend. When we were children, back at Crydee . . . Just remember, you were the one who held me to my promise to introduce you if we ever returned to Midkemia from Kelewan.” He shook his head and with a laugh added, “It’s good to know some things never change. “
Jimmy leaped off the bench. “Well, I must be off. Pleased to make your acquaintance, magician. Cheer up, singer. You’ll either marry the Princess or you won’t.” He dashed off, leaving Laurie struggling with the logic of that statement while Pug laughed aloud.
SEVEN - Wedding
Jimmy prowled the great hall.
The Prince’s-throne room was being readied, and the other squires were supervising the activities of the pages and porters as all the last-minute touches were being applied. Everyone had their minds upon the ceremony, due to get under way in less than an hour’s time. Jimmy found that the price of his being excused duty was having nothing to do at the last, and as Arutha certainly didn’t want him underfoot right now, he was left to find his own distraction.
Jimmy couldn’t shake the feeling that in the rush of excitement few were mindful of the past dangers to the Prince. The horrors found at the House of Willows had been hidden behind masses of bridal flowers and festive bunting.