“That certainly changes the balance of things in the kingdom.” Emrys shook his head. “I wonder what the high lords will do when they hear this. You know them, Telyn. Most of them are so jealous of power they will attempt anything to bring down those who appear to have more influence than they do. When word gets out Gwidion has a council of wizards on his side, I can only imagine the gnashing of teeth.”
“I’m certain there will be some rumblings,” Gwidion agreed. “My dealings with the high lords were never comfortable ones. They accept nothing at face value, since they each have more than one face of their own. For the moment, Emrys, I would prefer you not mention the existence of the Gwaith’orn to the delegation. It’s possible they too will have experiences as they travel the Wood. We will disclose everything to Prince Keir once the hearings conclude, but their business must take priority.”
“I understand, Lord Gwidion. My silence is assured.”
Telyn couldn’t resist a jab. “Your silence is impossible. Your word not to speak of it is enough.”
Emrys put his hand to his heart and gaped in mock offense. “You see how she treats your guests, Lord Gwidion? You really have no idea what kind of a disrespectful wretch you’ve taken into your household. She’s never learned the manners becoming a young woman.”
“Did you ever teach them to me?” Telyn narrowed her eyes.
“No, but you haven’t the manners becoming a young man either, so I suppose it is entirely my failure.”
Gwidion grinned at their banter. “I find her a breath of fresh air.”
“Well, I demand justice for this insult. Choose your weapon, wench, and I shall show you who is your better.”
“Oh, yes.” Telyn eagerly accepted the challenge. “Flutes, harps, or small pipes?”
“I’ve never understood why you favor the small pipes. They sound like an animal being tortured. The harp is the weapon of a true bard.”
Mithrais laughed aloud. “Is this a musical duel?”
“It is indeed, my lord. I hope you’ll stay, for I wish there to be witnesses to the humbling of my former apprentice.” Emrys tossed a shock of dark hair back from his forehead. “I trust the small harp I loaned you just past May Eve is still in good repair?”
“It is, and the harp I obtained from a local artisan is in every way its equal in tone and quality.”
“Then fetch them, if you dare.”
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