Chapter 33
It was a curiously deep silence which reigned for many moments in the King’s chamber. Ughtred slowly drew a little apart from Marie and glanced sternly from one to the other. His momentary suspicion, however, died away. The look on the face of Nicholas of Reist was such as no man, even the most consummate of actors, might assume. “What news do you bring?” the King said, quietly. “Is all well at Solika?” Reist pointed to his sister. “There are no fresh tidings,” he answered. “I await your Majesty’s explanation of my sister’s presence here.” Ughtred drew himself up. The blood of an ancient race asserted itself. He eyed Reist coldly. It was the King who faced a rebellious subject. “I have no explanation to offer to you, Duke of Reist,” he answered. “Seek it instead from your sister. It i
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