wedding. They finally compromised on thefollowing midsummer. But the interim months had been far frompleasant.Rohyronly half-heartedly participated in the preparations for what wassupposed to be a milestone in his life. Lacking information on whathe might desire for his nuptials, his staff resorted to gathering itfrom the one source who most likely knew. Lassen cooperated to ensurehis lovers binding would not be marred by embarrassing errors.Imcael almost had conniptions when he found out.Unwisely,he threatened to end the betrothal he had forcibly brokered. Anacrimonious altercation erupted, the likes of which the keepsresidents had not witnessed in recent memory. It necessitatedintervention to bring back the peace.Youhave the delicacy of a drunken burhog run amok in a glassware stall!Yovan exasperatedly chided Imcael in the aftermath of the quarrel.Take heed, Imcael. Rohyr can be pushed only so far. Were you notKeldons brother, you would have passed the bounds of his patiencelong ago.Whichwould you prefer? A sleeping draught or a mind touch? Eiren Sarvantartly inquired that night of a still fuming Rohyr. And donttell me its none of my business. It becomes my business whenLassen is worried enough to send for me at this unholy hour and begfor some way to sedate you.Cousinto the Ardan and Rikaras foremost physician, Eiren was said to bethe greatest healer in the entire country. Calm and reserved bynature, he was not given to impassioned displays and hisuncharacteristic outburst quickly quelled Rohyrs.Imcaelseemed to realize the error of his actions for he apologized toRohyr. The apology was duly accepted but the tiff further widened therift between them. And with Imcaels imminent banishment fromcourt, there was little chance of it being mended.Hardlyhad that tempest been settled when the prospective consort arrived onthe tailendof the spring monsoon. Rohyr welcomed his intended with duehospitality and little more. But chastened perhaps by the kingssimmering animosity, Imcael kept his opinions to himself for achange. In any case, he could not complain about his sonsaccommodations or the utter correctness with which everyone comportedthemselves.Ifit galled him that said correctness was born out of protocol ratherthan true amicability toward Rohyrs betrothed, he held his tongue.After all, they did not know Tyrde. For now, all his son couldcommand was due deference to his office to be. Loyalty would comelater.Rohyrsgroup of intimates was another cause for concern. Imcaels sonswere not part of that group even if they were Rohyrs closest bloodkin besides Dylen and Imcael himself. He observed their demeanor asthey welcomed Tyrde and his brothers. They were cordial andcourteousand that was all.Therewas none of the intense and affectionate camaraderie characteristicof those who formed Rohyrs trusted circle. They would suffer ordie for each other if need be. And like it or not, Rohyrs paramourseemed to have earned that same regard. Not so his sons, Imcaelreluctantly admitted. The compunction was not there.Foronce, he rued his insularity about his childrens upbringing.Mahael attended court regularly as was expected of the heir of amajor fief. Ronuin sometimes accompanied him while Tyrde had visitedon a number of occasions in his early years. But they had not livedin Rikara for any length of time that would have enabled them toforge