Another woman might have blanched or at least seemed surprised. Instead, Kettricken lightly touched the very serviceable knife she always wore beside her keys. “Almost, I would welcome so direct an attack.” She considered. “I suppose it is wise. What harm can come of letting them know we suspect. Nay, that we know. Why should I be circumspect and tactful?
Burrich has already received their greetings, in the form of an arrow through the leg.” The bitterness in her voice, and the ferocity beneath it, shocked me. “He may take the guard post, and with it my thanks. I could choose a sounder man, but I would not have the trust in him that I have in Burrich. Will his leg injury permit him to do this duty?”
“I do not think his pride would permit any other to do it.”
“Fine, then.” She paused. “I will have a chair placed for him.”
“I doubt he will use it.”
She sighed. “We all have our own ways of offering sacrifice. It shall be there, nonetheless.”
I bowed my head in acceptance and she dismissed me. I went back up to my room intending to tidy away all that had been dragged out for Burrich’s use. But as I walked softly down the hall I was startled to see the door of my room open slowly. I eased to another doorway and flattened myself inside it. After a moment Justin and Serene emerged from my room. I stepped out to confront them.
“Still looking for a spot for your tryst?” I asked acidly.
They both froze. Justin stepped back, stood almost behind Serene. Serene glared at him, then stood firm before me. “We don’t have to answer to you for anything.”