throats as well asyours.** * *Itwas shortly before the evening meal that Riodan came upon Dylen oncemore. The former companion was by himself at one end of the opengallery in the west wingthe gallery ran parallel to the hallwaythat led to the dining hall. He was gazing out at the west district,which was barely discernible in the rapidly failing light. Stopping ashort distance away, Riodan studied him, taken all over again by theDeirs sensual beauty. But he was also troubled by his melancholicexpression. He wondered what thoughts darkened Dylens mood as hestared at his former home.Thelatter suddenly turned his head and looked at him as if he expectedto see him standing there. Caught, Riodan decided to approach theDeir who had taught him everything about intimacy of the body andspirit.Dylengreeted him cordially enough, but Riodan sensed a distinct lack ofwarmth in his manner. He stifled a sigh and tried to break the ice byasking about recent events in the capital. Dylen obliged him eventhough he must have known Riodan would have already garnered theinformation earlier. Almost inevitably, their conversation touched onthe shroud of mystery surrounding Dylen.Howeverdid you manage to keep word of your presence here from gettingaround? Riodan asked.Ofwhat significance would an obscure courtier be outside of Rikara?Dylen said. Even if someone thought it worth mentioning to youthat Rohyr had taken in a hethar,I think you would have regarded the news as mere gossipinterestingbut not important.Butwhy withhold the truth at all?Iwanted to remain anonymous until I felt comfortable with all thechanges my life has undergone. Especially this whole business ofbeing an Ardans brother.But,after tomorrow, youll be news not only in Ylandre but alsoabroad, Riodan said. And youll be treated as a member of theroyal family. Are you ready to take your place now?Canany outsider ever truly be ready for such a thing? Dylen wrylyasked. Surely you dont feel yourself an outsider any longer,Riodan objected. Youvebeenaccepted by the Essendris, and thus far, all speak highly of you.Notall. And one doesnt necessarily cease to feel different justbecause of a change in ones circumstances, Dylen countered.Imsorry, I meant no offense, Riodan hastily apologized. Nonetaken, Dylen blandly replied.Riodanflushed, mildly abashed by Dylens distant courtesy. By the way,how is your adda?he asked after an awkward silence.Alive,Dylen curtly answered.Riodanhesitated, unsure how to proceed. I trust he is well? If nolonger having the use of his legs counts as being well.Thattook Riodan aback. I see, he murmured. But he was cured? Ofblight, I mean.Eirensaved him.Soyou found a way to get him back to Rikara, Riodan said withrelief. Dylen shook his head. Not so much found a way as had thegood fortune of achanceencounter with Rohyr. And he recalled Eiren.Yes,Dylen said, affection and reverence in his eyes. And owned me hisbrother as well.Riodansmiled. Im glad he found you. Mayhap someday youll tell methe whole story of how you met.Dylenturned a cool gaze on him. It neednt be me. Gilmael waspresent. So was Lassen. They can recount it to you.Butof course, Riodan quickly agreed. He fell silent for a space as hesearched for a less contentious topic to talk about.Ihope you enjoyed