Ericaania was a black dot in a blue sky before Almere and Stannock realized she was gone to the settlements in the northwest. “She heard us talking last night and is upset,” Almere explained, “and I understand why.”
“She doesn"t want her sons to be at odds.” Stannock helped himself to another thimbleberry tart. Almere poured the coffee.
“Nor does she want her grandchildren endangered before they"re even born,” Almere said. “Tevron"s a beast. He"s nothing like his true father from what I understand. Malcoom was Ericaania"s true love. She only married your father for political reasons.”
“For expediency,” he agreed. “But let"s not talk about my father now. He"s old, infirm, his heart is bad, and his mind gone. It"s sad.”
“Your mother poisoned him. The whole Palace knows that.”
“She had n
