“If we want definite word that Verity is still alive, our only choice is to send someone to find him, and to come back with tidings of him.” I considered Burrich.
“Assuming the messenger managed to survive, it would still take too long. Once Regal is in power, the word of a messenger is nothing to him. The bearer of such tidings would not dare speak them aloud. We need proof that Verity is alive, proof that King Shrewd will accept, and we need it before Regal comes into power. That one would not be king-in-waiting long.”
“King Shrewd and Kettricken’s child still stand between him and the throne,” I protested.
“That location has proven unhealthy for full-grown, strong men. I doubt an ailing old man or an unborn child will find it any luckier a place to be.” Burrich shook his head and set that thought aside. “So. You cannot Skill to him. Who can?”
“Any of the coterie.”
“Pah. I have faith in none of them.”
“King Shrewd might be able to,” I suggested hesitantly. “If-he took strength from me.”
“Even if your link with Verity is broken?” Burrich asked intently.
I shrugged and shook my head. “I don’t know. That is why I said `might.’ “
He ran a final hand down Ruddy’s newly sleek coat. “It will have to be tried,” he said decisively. “And the sooner the better. Kettricken must not be left to fret and grieve if there is no cause for it. She might lose the child of it.” He sighed and looked at me. “Go get some rest. Plan on visiting the King tonight. Once I see you go in, I will see that there are witnesses to whatever King Shrewd finds out.”