Ransom blinked in wonderment, amazed at the king’s offer, at the unexpected generosity. His mouth went dry, and he couldn’t find words. Benedict beamed at him, looking eagerly for a yes. No conditions had been given, which surprised Ransom because of what he’d heard about Maeg. Surely Benedict had wanted to take her as a ward to control him as much as Marcus. Perhaps the conditions would come later.
“I must speak another truth, my lord,” Ransom said, his mind buzzing with the opportunity. His steadfast heart insisted he take a risk that might yet cost him everything. “I don’t think you’ll want to hear it.”
“All the more reason that I need to.” Benedict said it without hesitation, though his joy had clearly been dimmed by the declaration.
“How can I serve you if you serve King Estian? He arranged for the death of your brother and now your father. It was poison that took both of their lives. Poison administered by Lady Alix. Through his machinations, I was abducted from Beestone castle despite the safe conduct you gave me. He is a dishonorable man and an enemy to Ceredigion. That is the truth of things.”
As Ransom spoke, a dark look crossed Benedict’s face. Was it anger? Dread? “Do you have evidence to support such an accusation, Ransom?”
Ransom breathed slowly, trying to maintain his calm. “Evidence? No, I suppose I don’t, but I’ve experienced it firsthand. Lady Alix herself told me that Estian has used her to remove his enemies. She is Fountain-blessed, my lord. And so am I. We have a peculiar way of . . . of sensing each other. She has a gift, my lord, a power beyond the ken of mortals. I believe it is a power of persuasion. I’ve fallen victim to it myself. I’ve loved Claire my entire life, but I nearly abandoned my pursuit of her to marry Alix. You, too, have been under her sway. Have you not noticed that everything she says seems eminently reasonable? It’s only after you put some distance between the both of you that the feelings start to fade.”
A surprised look crossed Benedict’s face. “What you say is true.”
“My gift from the Fountain, my lord, comes with loyalty. For me to realize my own potential, I need to serve a cause greater than myself. If not, I would truly become a monster. I would become like him.”
It was clear from the look on Benedict’s face that he was absorbing the information, working through it in his mind. Silence prevailed for several long moments as the two men looked at each other.
“Did my father know of this?” Benedict finally asked.
“He did. Alix is dangerous. She can travel long distances in a manner I cannot understand, but it has something to do with the fountains within the palaces. I also know of a Wizr set that—”
“Yes!” Benedict said, interrupting him. “I’ve seen it. Estian showed it to me. It’s an ancient thing.”
So it did exist. He’d never truly doubted, but it felt different to know for certain. “It is indeed. It’s connected to the Fountain. The hollow crown is as well. Alix told me they are relics from the past, from the days of King Andrew. A struggle has existed between our kingdoms. My lord, the Fountain told me that Estian intends to destroy the Argentine line. He is fixed on that purpose. He will use his poisoner to dispose of all of you. Even you. Your alliance was useful to him, nothing more.”
As Ransom spoke these words, he felt and heard the rush of water in his ears. It seemed to flood from him to the king, and from the look on Benedict’s face, it was obvious the power was affecting him. The two sat astride their destriers, face-to-face, connected by something invisible, yet stronger than metal.
When the rushing feeling subsided, Benedict panted in wonderment, his eyes fresh and alert. “I believe you, Ransom,” he said. “It feels like I’ve awakened from a dream and see the world with fresh eyes.”
Ransom smiled at him. “Welcome back, my lord.”
“I think . . . part of me always suspected it. Something nagging at the back of my mind. Yet I justified my ignorance. I let myself believe my father was destroying Ceredigion. That his caprice and vengeful nature was only a manifestation of his ambition.”
“He never trusted Estian or Estian’s father,” Ransom said. “He knew in his bones they were his enemies.”
Benedict nodded. “This changes things, Ransom. It changes everything. I had hoped my alliance with Estian would usher in a period of peace between us. Instead, it’s weakened our position. Estian has Westmarch now, and Bayree has been returned to him. I know his eyes have been fixed on Brythonica. He’s spoken to me of a lord in Occitania that he would like to marry to the duchess.”
Ransom frowned. “Your brother’s son is one of three Argentines left,” he said. “I’ve promised to protect him.”
“And you shall,” said the king forcefully. “The Fountain has washed the scales from my eyes. This is my intention. Advise me, if you will, and tell me if you agree. I intend to name my mother as the Duchess of Vexin, her ancient inheritance, hers by right and by blood. I need her to keep those nobles tamed once I claim the throne and rule from Kingfountain.”
“I agree,” said Ransom with a smile. “She will serve you well.”
“I also propose sending you ahead to Kingfountain. Your first errand as my sworn man. I want Lord Kinghorn on my side fully. Promise him the duchy of Westmarch. We will wrest it back from Estian. With the two of you defending our western borders, we will prevail against any attack. Do you think Sir Bryon will serve me faithfully?”
“I do,” Ransom answered. “He’s an honorable man. What of Lord James? What of the North?”
“James is not someone I trust,” said Benedict. “When his father died in the winter, he became an ally out of necessity. But I didn’t want him anywhere near Dunmanis for fear he’d switch sides again if the opportunity presented itself. By right of inheritance, he is the duke of the North and must be part of my council. But you now have more power and influence than he ever will. And I look to you to keep him in check.”
That was a relief. “I’m glad to hear you say it. I will serve you, my lord. You’ve given me all the assurance I need.”
Benedict smirked. “I’d also be the world’s greatest fool if I cast a man such as you aside. Mother always spoke highly of you. She encouraged me to adopt your ways. It did provoke . . . resentment. But she was never wrong in her encouragement.”
“Your mother is patient and wise,” Ransom said, his heart burning in his chest.
“I’ve always thought so,” said Benedict. “Sir Simon, prepare the writs and bring them to me for my seal. Then the two of you will take some men and bring word of what’s happened to Kingfountain. Have the good duke disband his army and remain at Kingfountain for the coronation. After that, we will go to Glosstyr and see that you and the lass are properly wedded. Fulfill my commands, Sir Ransom.” He grinned. “If you please.”
“With all my heart,” Ransom answered, giving Benedict the knightly salute.
The king returned it with a satisfied nod.
Ransom rode Dappled over the mighty bridge suspended above the rushing falls. As he gazed up at the palace on the hill, his heart swelled with anticipation. He was about to see Claire again. Simon rode on one side of him and Lord Kinghorn on the other, having ridden out to meet them. A crowd had gathered on the streets, and the people of Kingfountain were cheering loudly that the war was over and the gates of the city had finally been opened.