The Valkisian’s ruddy cheeks lost several shades of color but he came perforce at Carse’s heels.
Garach and Ywain were in the throne room and the black-cowled creature from Caer Dhu. All bowed as Carse entered.
“Well,” he demanded of the Dhuvian, “have you obeyed my command?”
“Lord,” said Hishah softly, “I took counsel with the Elders, who send you this word. Had they known that the Lord Rhiannon had returned they would not have presumed to touch those things which are his. And now they fear to touch them again lest in their ignorance they do damage or cause destruction.
“Therefore, Lord, they beg you to arrange this matter yourself. Also they have not forgotten their love for Rhiannon, whose teachings raised them from the dust. They wish to welcome you to your old kingdom in Caer Dhu, for your children have been long in darkness and would once again know the light of Rhiannon’s wisdom, and his strength.”
Hishah made a low obeisance. “Lord, will you grant them this?”
Carse stood silent for a moment, trying desperately to conceal his dread. He could not go to Caer Dhu. He dared not go! How long could he hope to conceal his deception from the children of the Serpent, the oldest deceiver of all?
If, indeed, he had concealed it at all. Hishah’s soft words reeked of a subtle trap.
And trapped he was and knew it. He dared not go—but even more he dared not refuse.
He said, “I am pleased to grant them their request.”