XX
"I SEE YOU still intend to let those women flaunt their defiance at you from the Roof of the World." The lady Ellindyja holds the needlework loosely.
"When did you take up needlework?" asks Sillek.
"When I found myself no longer useful to the Lord of Lornth, I took up the diversions of my youth." Ellindyja eases the outer wooden hoop off, readjusts the cloth over the inner hoop, and replaces the outer hoop. Then she picks up the needle.
"We haven't replaced the armsmen we lost."
"Nor your father's ring. Nor his honor." Ellindyja's voice is acid-edged.
"The present Lord of Lornth would appreciate any suggestions you might have, my dear mother, which do not either bankrupt me or leave our lands open to Lord Ildyrom."
"I have been thinking, Sillek-about heritages and honor."
Lord Sillek purses his lips, then asks, "What of something besides an attack we cannot afford."
"Well ... if one must resort to more indirect and more merchantlike means, Sillek, my son, surely there must be some ... adventurers... out there who might want a reward of sorts, perhaps some small parcel of almost worthless land, and a title... even a pardon... if necessary." Ellindyja smiles brightly.
"Hmmmm . . ." Sillek paces to the tower window and back. His fingers touch his trimmed beard. "Not nearly so expensive as troops. It might even reduce the banditry-one way or another."
"I am more than happy to be of service, Sillek-as I was for your father. He was a most honorable man."
"I don't think we'll make the offer through a broadsheet, though."
"No . . . that would be too overtly merchantly. Tell your wizards and your senior armsmen, and make sure that the traders' guild knows. That is the way the better merchants operate."
"I do so appreciate your advice." Sillek paces back to the window, glancing out into the slashing rain that has poured off the Westhorns. "Your advice is always welcome." He only emphasizes the word "advice" ever so slightly.
"I am so glad you do."
Sillek does not turn from the window, not until he forces a smile back upon his lips.