...And,of course, youre already acquainted with Guyon Barath, Riodansaid in a barely audible voice.Dylenbriefly nodded to Guyon then turned his attention back to the youths.I trust youre enjoying yourselves? he politely said.Ohindeed, Your Grace! Its not every day we get to witness a royalbinding! enthused one.Notto mention see so many notable Deira gathered in one place, chimedin the other.ThenI take it you deem it worth travelling all the way here from southernSidona. The pair gaped at him in awe. Oh, how did you know wehail from the south of thefief,Dyhar?the first Deir asked.Youraccent, Dylen explained. Its similar to Rios.Tohis embarrassment, Riodan felt his cheeks heat up in a blush. Hestrove to dampen the surge of pleasure brought about by Dylensimplied acknowledgement of their previous closeness. But it must haveshown in his face nevertheless, for Guyon suddenly scowled. He lookedat Dylen, eyes gleaming unpleasantly.Iwas going to show my friends around after the reception, heannounced with a sly grin. I thought they might appreciate themore sophisticated diversions our city has to offer. A visit to ahethareclub for instance.Guyon!Ohcome now, Rio, Guyon snidely said. Im sure Essendri-dyharcan recommend a decent club considering his intimate knowledge ofsuch places. He smirked at Dylen, his tone just this side of asneer. Or perhaps you would care to join us for a night ofdebaucheryI mean indulgence, Your Grace.Therewas a concerted gasp at his insolence. The Sidonans glanced nervouslyat Dylen, wondering how he would retaliate. But, while Riodan elbowedGuyon in the ribs and furiously glared at him, Dylen remainedvirtually expressionless.Asif only just realizing the severity of his offense, Guyons eyeswidened, and he gestured apologetically. I beg your pardon, hesaid, seemingly abashed. What was I thinking, assuming Your Gracewould wish to revisit your old haunts or mingle with formerassociates?Dylensanswering smile was frosty yet ever so polite. On the contrary, Ifrequently return to my old haunts and keep in touch with my formerassociates, he coolly said. I dont care to lose theaffection of folk who stay loyal to me come what may. Its morethan I can say for others who forsake their friends as soon astheres naught to be gained from them. He looked pointedly atGuyon. But you know all about that, dont you, Barath-tyar?Thesudden crimsoning of Guyons cheeks told of Dylens sure aim. Hetook leave of the now hushed group and disappeared into the crowd.Forgettingall tact, Riodan growled, Dolt! That was beyond the pale! Youshould be thankful Dylen never brings such matters to Rohyrsattention. He recoiled when a smugsmilecurved Guyons mouth. And you knew that! he exclaimed indisgust. Saints above, Guyon! Youre little better than dogexcrement! Excuse me while I get some fresh air to rid my nostrils ofyour stench.Guyonfound himself protesting to thin air when Riodan angrily turned hisback on him and stalked off.Hewas still fuming when he wandered onto one of the balconies. Takingin the balmy night breeze, he struggled to bring his temper undercontrol.Deitysblood,he thought,Guyons conduct is inexcusable! Ifword were to reachRohyr,Guyon would be barred from court. Indeed, all the Baraths could besubject to royal censure just for being related to him. Really, whathad that imbecile thought to