Page 54 of Vows of Sacrifice

There was also Niall, the spokesman for the Osacanian people, responsible for liaising with the king. Any discontent that might give rise to revolution was, thanks to his innate talent, nipped in the bud with a speed that commanded respect. And then, finally, there was the man I hated the most: Jessop. The head of the temples. Of medium height, with a sloping build and a light turban wrapped around the top of his head to hide his lack of hair. He was the one who ensured that the worship of the Dark Gods would endure against all odds. Any means were acceptable to keep his flock of believers in line. He exerted a terribly harmful influence on the king. Why was this? Because there was no greater fanatic than the man in constant search of absolution for his daily sins, perpetrated with mad enthusiasm within a cult whose laws had been corrupted.

I had nothing against the various forms taken by our Father and his bride, the Source, to watch over his children. No, my problem was with the handful of humans who used them to enslave the people, not to serve them or guide them toward the path of light.

Jessop smiled at me. A wobbly smile, as if only one part of his mouth could move.

“Lord Dovah! I’ve just learned that tomorrow I’ll have the great honour of officiating your marriage at the Temple of the Dark Gods. What an interesting alliance.”

I refrained from commenting on his words. Nevertheless, I could rejoice that my wedding date had finally been brought forward.

I bowed deferentially to Elendur, who observed me intently.

“Your Majesty,” I greeted him before standing up.

“My brother,” he replied, feigning friendliness. “Your timing is perfect. We were just discussing the upcoming ceremony, as well as the notable benefits this union will bring to Osacan. Did you know that Muvaria was renowned for its woollens and products such as soap, perfumes, and powders? Well, thick fabrics aren’t much use to us, but I seem to recall that the kingdoms of Edrialon and Nicrarune have rather harsh winters . . .”

I was willing to bet my armour that they weren’t discussing imports or exports. What was he hiding from me? And more importantly, why?

“Tomorrow’s a perfect day, I think, for your wedding, since you’re more or less already married. What do you think?”

I smile coldly.

“I was just coming to ask you to set a date for the Osacanian wedding. So, I’m delighted, Your Majesty.”

Elendur held my gaze without blinking. He knew I’d guessed he was hiding things from me.

“My hand of justice is fulfilled. I am pleased.”

What a farce! I bowed once again.

“Do you need my assistance?”

“Not at all, brother. You’re dismissed.”

“Thank you very much . . .”

I turned to the other men present to greet them briefly:

“Gentlemen,” I simply said.

They nodded succinctly, then I walked out of the room, driven by cold anger. What the hell were they all up to?! I hadn’t taken a few steps when I bumped into two of my men, Franque and Raulyn. Twins who, unlike those who ruled Osacan, were so identical that recognizing them was an arduous task.

After they had greeted me respectfully, I beckoned them to come closer.

“I’d like you to do me a favour.”

“Anything you say, Lord Dovah,” they replied in unison.

“Keep an eye on who’s visiting the king today. I want a report on my desk tomorrow morning at the latest.”

They exchanged a brief glance, then both nodded in agreement. Suddenly, I thought about taking Ashana into town to discover something more of Osacan than Tarnton Castle. I also needed a bath, but for that, there was no need to bother the servants—the oasis would do.

* * *

I’d barely swam a few strokes when I noticed a change in the cool water. It had started to ripple, forming a kind of vibratory ring transmitted from the atmosphere to my body.

“What the . . .” I began, scanning my surroundings.

It was an ancient and familiar magic.

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