with stories of his extensive trips abroad,conveniently forgetting that Riodan was far more travelled than heand therefore knew when his recollections were no more than talltales.Theywere just finishing the sweet course, a spiced fruit ice served witha splash of sparkling wine, when Malkon turned his full attention toDylen. He was a handsome Deir, Riodan grudgingly admitted to himself.If one favored small blue eyes, mousy brown hair and somewhat spottyskin, he uncharitably concluded.Iheard a most interesting rumor, Essendri-tyar,Malkon all but purred. Is it true that you were once one of themost sought after hetharein Rikara?Riodanfelt as if someone had punched him in the gut. Quickly collectinghimself, he managed to remain expressionless. He glanced at Dylen. Ifhe was startled by the less than delicate allusion to his past, theArdans brother did not show it either.Itis true, he coolly said, ignoring the leers of Malkons cohorts.Malkonsmirked. How fascinating. And I imagine you havent forgottenyour skills. Unless, of course, you havent put them into practicelately.Whythis interest in Essendri-tyarsformer profession? Riodan cut in. Malkon shrugged. Oh, Immerely intrigued. Ive never availed of the hetharesservices.Never?Riodan repeated in obvious disbelief.Ihave no need for paid companionship, Malkon smugly said. Deirafreely seek my bed.Isthat what they tell you? Dylen said, amusement limning his voice.Malkoncould not conceal the hint of annoyance in the sudden downward curveof his mouth. But perhaps I have missed something in foregoing thecompany of the hethare,he allowed. He let his eyes rake Dylens sleek frame more blatantlythan he hadearlierthat morning. And perhaps you would not be averse to educating me,eh?Educatingyou?Spreadinghis hands expansively, Malkon smiled and said, You are a beauty. Ican see why many desired your company. I wouldnt forego a chanceto benefit from yourtalents.Beforean indignant Riodan could speak, Dylen responded with a bland smile.You enjoy being fucked within an inch of your life then? hecrudely asked.WhileRiodan stared at him, Malkon gaped in shock. I beg your pardon?he managed to say after collecting himself.Dylenleaned back in his chair. Didnt your source inform you that Iwas most known for that particular service? There are many Deirawhose partners arent as endowed as they would like or who play thesword out of duty but would prefer sheathing it in truth. Which oneare you?Riodandabbed his lips with his napkin to cover a grin. Malkonsexpression was priceless.Iam neither, the Deir finally replied after an awkward silence. Herecovered his composure somewhat and slyly smiled. And surely youcultivated other skills for those like myself. I have never yet heardof a hetharwho didnt spread himself for his patrons pleasure.Dylenshrugged. It is part of the profession, he agreed.SweetVeres, but youre a cool one, Malkon remarked admiringly. Thedesire in his eyes intensified to Riodans dismay. So, what sayyou to my proposal?MayI remind you that Essendri-tyarretired years ago, Riodan pointed out, barely keeping the ire outof his voice.Malkonchuckled. Well, surely he would consider briefly un-retiring forthe sake of international goodwill.Areyou suggesting that our Ardans brother service you? Riodan shotback, no longer troubling to hide his anger.Service?Malkon said in mock horror. Nay, I was merely inviting him for,shall we say, a night of mutual pleasure.Aboutto retort, Riodan stopped when Dylen