Dylen, Riodan tended to walk on eggshells, his unspokenfear of resurrecting the past and triggering Dylens resentmentover it shadowing his every word and deed. Though he had not admittedit to anyone, it left Dylen feeling uncomfortable and not a littlewistful for the expressive plainspoken Riodan of old.Itwas their last full day in Varthe. The following afternoon would findthem back in Shenze, ready to be embroiled once more in theintricacies of Asmaran politics and the difficulties of a clandestineinvestigation of a royal in-law. They lounged on the veranda, theirconversation desultory for the most part, until the innkeeper broughtthem the days mail, forwarded to them by the embassy in Shenze.Thesewere personal correspondenceofficial communications were conveyedbyembassycouriers. Nonetheless, Riodans sire affixed his diplomaticinsignia to his missive. And Guyon Barath was not above stamping hisfamilys crest into the wax seal of his letter. Riodans lipscurled in displeasure at such petty posturing.Meanwhile,Dylen read his four letters. One was from his father, another fromRohyr by way of Lassen and a third was from Gilmael updating him onminor changes he had made among personnel in their Ministry. Thefourth letter caused him to stiffen and abruptly sit up.Thesudden movement attracted Riodans attention.*Riodansurreptitiously observed Dylens expression then dropped his eyesto the topmost envelope on the low table between them. The sendersname was clearly visible, and he easily read it. He looked up to meetDylens watchful gaze. Riodan stole a peek at the adjoining sittingroom, wary of eavesdroppers.Youcan speak freely, Dylen said.Riodansensed the sudden presence of invisible walls around them. Hewondered once more about the extent of Dylens abilities. But nowwas not the time or the place to probe.Whathas Sereth written that bothers you? he asked as casually as hecould muster. Dylen looked pensive. Not bothersome exactly, hemurmured. I am only at a lossasto how to respond to him as kindly and inoffensively as possible.Why? Did he ask a favor of you?Nay,not a favor. Dylen suddenly rose and stood at the balustradeenclosing the veranda. He stared somewhat broodingly at the nearbymountains. Finally, he turned around and somberly regarded Riodan.He wants a definite answer to his offer.Riodanfelt a stab of apprehension. What offer? he cautiously asked.Serethasked me to bind to him just before we left Ylandre, Dylen quietlysaid. Riodan drew in his breath sharply. He turned his face away,swallowing hard as hedid.When he looked at Dylen once more, his eyes were moist and slightlyreddened, but he managed a crooked smile.Congratulationsare in order then, he ventured.Dylenshook his head. I didnt accept his proposal. After amoments hesitation, he whispered, I dont think I can.Riodanstared at him. Why do you say that? Im afraid, was theunexpected answer. Afraid of what?Ofentrapping myself. Dylen fell silent for a fraught while. Atlength, he said, I was right all those years ago. I shouldnthave allowed myself to fall in love.Mydoing,Riodan bleakly thought. He stood up and approached Dylen. DontletwhatI did ruin love for you, he softly entreated. If taking a matewill make you happy, grab the chance and hold on.Dylenlaughed mirthlessly. But it wont make me happy. Why not?Idont love him. Dylen squarely faced Riodan. I took thechance once before against