Lion's Bride (26 page)

“I swear on my hope of paradise that you’ll want these gifts.” He stepped to one side with a flamboyant gesture. “Am I ever wrong?”

“You were wrong when you brought us to this—Jasmine?” Thea rushed forward but stopped before she reached the woman. Was this another trick? “What are you doing here?”

“It seems very obvious.” Jasmine slipped her mantle from her hair. “You were not in Damascus, so Tasza and I had to come here.”

“I do not like this place.” Tasza followed her and disdainfully glanced around the room. “I would rather have stayed at Dundragon.”

“Hush,” Jasmine said. “You can see no farther than the tip of your nose.”

“I can see that this place is no better than a harem. At least I get paid for giving my body.”

“It’s not a harem,” Kadar said. “I give you my word you will be held in all honor.”

Jasmine glared at Tasza. “Did I not tell you?”

“What is this about, Kadar?” Thea asked.

“I thought you would like to have Jasmine by your side. Are you not glad to see her?”

Thea
was
glad to see her. She had not realized how much she had missed Jasmine. “Not enough to have her made a prisoner for my sake.”

“She’s not a prisoner. She can leave whenever she wishes. All she has to do is ask, and I’ll return her to Dundragon.”

“But I won’t ask,” Jasmine told Thea. “We have much to learn from you, and we cannot learn with you here, and us at Dundragon.” She turned to Tasza. “Now, tell her that you are happy to be here and will work hard.”

“I’m not happy to be here.” She added grudgingly, “But I will work hard. What else can I do in this place?”

“You see, Thea, everything is going to be splendid.” Kadar beamed. “You will have pleasant company and help to do your embroideries. You may thank me now.”

She looked at him in astonishment. Did he really think she would forget his part in their betrayal?

“No?” He must have read her thoughts in her expression. “But now you know I wish you only goodwill. If you’d forgive me, it would please me.” He made a face. “And make my visits far more pleasant.”

“I don’t forgive you.”

“You could pretend. That would be nearly as good,” he coaxed. “And maybe someday pretense could become reality.”

She stared at Kadar as the persuasive golden strands he wove so well wound themselves around her. But she would not soften. He could have fought Ware instead of aligning himself with him.

Yet she knew Ware would not have been dissuaded no matter how strongly Kadar had disagreed. And Kadar had believed that Ware was doing what was right to keep them safe. A little of her resentment was melting, but she would not let him triumph this easily. “Perhaps I could pretend.” She smiled with malice. “If you can convince Selene you meant only the best for us.”

He groaned. “You would make me face that termagant without your protection? I was hoping you’d intercede for me.”

“Why should I? You’re the one who is suing for pardon. You’ll find her in the garden. I send her out each afternoon to relax and play, but she spends her time tending the trees.” She had no doubt Kadar’s charm would eventually triumph, but Selene would make him suffer first. It would do the rascal good. She turned to Jasmine. “Come, I will show you where you’ll sleep. There’s a room facing the garden that’s very pleasant. Did I tell you how glad I am to see you?”

More than glad. She had two more allies in this scented prison, and her sense of helplessness was rapidly dispersing. She had only to wait and work and be patient and she would gain her freedom. In the meantime, she could control this world to which Ware had exiled her. She had learned long ago that one had only to supply what the enemy desired to be in a position of power. She had something Kemal wanted, and she could dangle it before the sheikh while undermining Ware in every possible way. She wouldn’t let Ware succeed in keeping her there against her will.

She would be the one to hold power at El Sunan.

EIGHTEEN MONTHS LATER
JUNE
10, 1191
EL SUNAN

KADAR GAZED UP at the branches of the mulberry trees with a sigh. “It seems a pity to have such pretty trees beset by pests. I’ve no admiration for your worms, Thea.”

“They aren’t pests. Everything feeds on something else. You don’t scorn the fine silk tunic I gave you.” She grimaced. “As I remember, you nagged at me unceasingly until I gave you what you wanted.”

“It was for our mutual good. I like fine garments.”

“And why is that good for me?”

“You could see me in them. I’m sure not one man in a thousand could show your work to such advantage.” He paused. “Except Ware. He’d look quite splendid in one of your tunics.”

It was a blatant lie, Thea thought. Kadar knew as well as she did that one never noticed what Ware wore; only the man himself. And it was the third time since he had arrived last night that he had mentioned Ware. It was clear he was leading up to something, but she had no intention of helping him. He knew she would not speak of Ware. She changed the subject. “It will be time to gather the cocoons soon.”

“I’m grateful the trees at Dundragon aren’t being put to such use. They flowered quite prettily this year. Of course, Ware has little opportunity to appreciate their beauty. He hasn’t returned to Dundragon for over a month. The border has exploded at rumors that King Richard will be arriving shortly to help Philip of France in this new siege of Acre. The rival sheikhs are edging closer because they know there’s a possibility Saladin may summon Kemal to help defend Acre.” Kadar smiled. “A man unbeatable in battle could be a boon to a city in such dire straits. Kemal’s fame as a warrior has spread even to Jerusalem.”

“Indeed?”

“You know it has. I’d wager you’re aware of every message that goes between Kemal and Saladin.”

She gazed at him innocently. “But how could that be? I’m only a humble slave here.”

“A most peculiar slave. Kemal permits you the freedom of the entire fortress. He’s even given you and Selene fine horses to ride when he believes women should never leave the harem.”

“We must have exercise if we’re to keep in good health. How can sick women perform their work?”

“And horses afford a much better chance at escape.”

“Kemal doesn’t worry about my escaping. He thinks me content.”

“Then he’s more fool than I believed. Oh, well, I suppose I shouldn’t be surprised at that indulgence when he gives you everything else you wish.”

Except one thing. Kemal had proved very stubborn, but if the situation at Acre was as desperate as she had heard, she might be close to gaining that prize. “Wasn’t giving me what I wish part of the agreement Ware made with Kemal?”

“Not to this extent.” He paused. “You play a dangerous game when you let him think the banner is responsible for his success. It’s incredible that his luck has held this long. One defeat and Kemal will turn against you. They burn witches, you know.”

“I’ll face that threat when I must.” She turned to face him. “It’s none of your concern, Kadar.”

“Unfortunately, it is my concern. I helped to bring you here.” He shook his head. “You’ve been very clever. I’ve watched with great admiration as you manipulated Kemal to this point. Kemal has grown colder and more distant toward Ware with each passing month. Tell me, do you intend to ask Kemal for his head?”

“No.”

“My head?”

“Don’t be foolish.”

“I take that as no. What a relief.”

“I wish no blood shed. You know my purpose. I’ve made no effort to hide it.”

He nodded. “And I’ve told Ware. He believes Kemal will remain true to his word.”

“Then you have nothing to worry about.”

“But he’s not been back to El Sunan and seen you with our friend the sheikh. You play on Kemal as you would the strings of a lyre. It’s an astonishing sight.”

“Did Ware truly think I’d sit and meekly embroider and wait for him to release me?”

“No, he probably didn’t think at all. He just wanted to see you safe. That’s why he brought you here to—”

“Remain a prisoner for two long years,” she finished. “I don’t wish to speak of him.”

“You’re a hard woman. You’ve forgiven me. Why not him?”

Because she had let Ware come too close, she had permitted herself to trust him, and he had betrayed her.

“He wears himself to a mere shell fighting in your service.” His voice turned coaxing. “There’s no woman in Islam or Christendom who has a knight so devoted to her well-being.”

“Then let him find another woman to imprison.”

“Admit it. He had good reason.”

“I do not admit it. No reason is good enough. I don’t care if Vaden or the Grand Master de Ridfort were knocking on the front gates, he had no right.”

“Well, de Ridfort won’t be knocking on any gates but those barring him from heaven. He was killed at the first siege of Acre two years ago.”

She stopped and turned to stare at him in astonishment. “Why did you not tell me?”

“Because Ware says it makes little difference. The Grand Master de Ridfort was mad, and his death may prevent another incident like Jedha, but it doesn’t lessen the danger to Ware…or to you. The death decree would have been passed on to the next Grand Master. Ware said it will go on forever.”

Forever. Ware was condemned forever to—Why had her first thought been of Ware when she had banished him from her concern? She must think only of her own problems. “Ware may do as he wishes, but I will not stay here forever.”

“If Ware can find a way, he will—”

“
I
will find a way.” She drew a shaking breath and tried to temper her voice. “I’ve told you, I won’t speak of Ware. If you continue to insist, you’ll have to go away.”

He sighed. “Very well, tell me more about these wriggling monstrosities on the trees. How long before your silk is ready to be harvested?”

“Not long. A week or two after the cocoon is formed we’ll be ready to reel the silk.” Her serene smile held a hint of challenge as she strolled down the path. “Providing we’re still here.”

Kadar rode direct from El Sunan to Ware’s encampment in the hills above the southern border.

“You look as worn as ancient leather,” Kadar said as he dismounted and handed his reins to Haroun. “When did you sleep last?”

“I don’t know. Two nights perhaps.” Ware led the way toward his tent. “Have you eaten?”

Kadar nodded. “Before I left El Sunan.” He sat down on the heap of blankets inside the door of the tent. “And when did you last eat? You’re thinner.”

“I eat.” He sat down and handed the water skin to Kadar. “How is Thea?”

“She glows, her eyes are bright, there’s a flush on her cheeks. Purpose makes her thrive.” He drank deep before leaning back on one arm. “And I come back to you and see you dwindling away to a mere shadow.”

“I’m not a shadow. I’ve lost a few pounds because there’s been no time to stop to eat. We’ve been hit hard this week.”

“Kemal is eagerly awaiting an invitation to join the fray at Acre. He’s brimming with pride.” Kadar paused. “And Thea is brimming with plots. She’s taken advantage of every win Kemal has made.”

“So you’ve told me.”

“But I detected a certain excitement in her this time. I believe she may be closing in for the kill.”

“And what do you wish me to do about it?”

“Whatever you have to do. She won’t believe her situation grows in danger.” He paused. “You could go to El Sunan yourself.”

“She wouldn’t see me.”

“But Kemal would. You could reinforce your position with him.”

“Good God, I’ve fought myself to exhaustion keeping his border safe,” he said harshly. “What else does he want from me?”

“Absence is your enemy and Thea’s friend. It’s easier to betray a man if the memory of his face has blurred.”

Ware was silent.

“Go to El Sunan before it’s too late. There’s some mischief in the air between Kemal and Thea. I think she’s promised him something.”

Ware’s head lifted swiftly. “What?”

Kadar shrugged. “I’m not sure.” Then he shook his head as he saw Ware’s expression. “Not to bed him. With a harem of thirty-two wives such a promise would not bring much excitement.” He added, “Except to you. I’m glad to see something can bestir you.”

“What else could she give him? He already has the banner.
My
banner, dammit.”

“I’ve told you all I know. I’m no seer. Go find out for yourself.”

“I’m needed here. I can’t chase after every phantom you think—”

“My lord, a messenger from Dundragon.” Haroun stood in the doorway of the tent, his eyes glittering with excitement. “He’s ridden hard. Shall I bring him to you?”

Ware got to his feet. “No, I’ll come.” He left the tent.

Kadar took another drink of water. It was difficult convincing a man of something he didn’t want to know. It was clear Ware would rather face swords and battleaxes than confront Thea again. He could not blame him. Thea’s tongue could be sharper than a scythe, and Ware was vulnerable to—

Ware rushed back inside his tent. Donning his armor, he spoke to Kadar. “I’ve told Haroun to saddle my horse and a fresh one for you. I’ll leave Abdul in charge here. We go to El Sunan.”

Kadar didn’t move. “I said
you
should go. I’ve ridden enough for one day.”

“I may need you.”

“Then wait until tomorrow.”

“I can’t wait.” He put on his helmet. “I’ve just had word from Acre. King Richard has landed and joined the siege. Acre will probably fall.”

“And Saladin may call on Kemal and his other sheikhs for support,” Kadar murmured as he rose to his feet.

“Exactly.”

There were no signs of military activity when Ware and Kadar rode through the gates of El Sunan, but Kemal’s greeting was distinctly cool.

“Why are you here? Why are you not protecting me from those traitorous interlopers?” he demanded as he strode toward them. “Must I do everything myself?” Kemal had always been pompous, but it appeared his arrogance had grown to the outer bounds of tolerance.

“I don’t think you’ve had anything to complain about in the service I’ve given you.” Ware met his gaze with an icy stare. “Or am I wrong?”

Kemal’s glance sidled away. “No, you’ve done everything you’ve promised. It’s just—” He broke off as a thought occurred to him. “You haven’t come to take her away?”

“It crossed my mind. Kadar says Thea’s not behaving as a proper slave should. I would not have her become a bother to you.”

“She is no bother.” Kemal defiantly stuck out his chin. “You cannot take her. We struck a bargain.”

“I’ve had word that Saladin may be summoning you to Acre. Who will protect my property?”

“Falsehoods. Saladin knows Acre has no chance of withstanding Richard this time. He would not waste me on such a task.” He smiled with satisfaction. “Tomorrow I ride out to meet with him and discuss the defense of Jerusalem.”

“And I still have no protection for my property.”

“I’ll be back within a fortnight. Your property is safe. Kadar must have told you what care I’ve taken with the woman.”

“He has told me. Now I’ll see for myself.” He dismounted and started toward the women’s quarters. “I’ll join you shortly. I trust you’ll offer me food under your roof?”

“‘Of course, you are not my enemy. But why must you see her? I don’t wish her to become disturbed. She becomes easily upset.”

“Disturbed?” Ware glanced at him over his shoulder in astonishment. Kemal’s expression was uneasy, almost fearful.

“I told you,” Kadar murmured.

Good God, Thea must have truly cast a spell over the sheikh to have him quake at the mere possibility of disturbing her. He said sarcastically, “I’ll try not to upset her.”

“You’ll not upset me.” Thea was walking toward him.

At Thea’s voice Ware stopped walking and watched as she approached him. She was garbed in an exquisitely embroidered silk gown the color of the twilight sky. She did not look older, only bolder, more confident. And beautiful—my God, how beautiful.

She
glows
, Kadar had said.

She did glow, but not with a soft sheen. She reminded him of a sword heated white-hot over a campfire. Her gaze meeting his was just as sharp and full of challenge as the last time they had met. What else could he expect?