Adams, Robert - Horseclans 02 - Swords of the Horseclans (v1.0) (html) by Swords of the Horseclans (v1.0) (html)

Author:Swords of the Horseclans (v1.0) (html) [Horseclans, Swords of the]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 0101-01-01T00:00:00+00:00

Chapter Eight

Refilling her goblet and Alexandros', Mara nodded, "When first Milo and I came here, there were rumors that Demetrios had tried to flee by sea, but that he had met with some misfortune and returned. He only discussed the episode if he was given no choice; even then he seldom told the same stories twice. Now I can understand why. Of course, he was then unaware that he was one of us, the Undying; he has become far more courageous since then.

"So you, Lekos, are the grandson of that other Lekos. But what of your father, Sergios? How did he come to remain amongst the pi… people of the Sea Islands?" Well, Mara, my father's wounds were grave—he nearly died of them. His recuperation required many months, and during those months Lord Pardos and his wife came to add love to the respect they bore him. So, when once more he was able to walk and join his host at table, Pardos and Kahndees set about persuading him to stay. Nor was it difficult. When he heard that his father was dead, slain by Demetrios in a duel…"

Mara shook her head. "It did not happen precisely in that way, but continue, Lekos."

"With my grandfather, the man who had extracted my father's oath to devote his life to Basil's son, dead by the hand of Basil's son, Lord Pardos and Father Vokos— who knew more regarding the ancient customs and manners of the Ehleenoee than any man I have ever met— were able to convince my father that he was at last freed of his vow."

"It is true," agreed Mara. "According to the old forms, the demise of the recipient of an oath frees him who made it of all obligation."

"But," added Alexandros, "my father never felt free of all obligation, else I would not be in your palace, Mara.

"When once more he could swing a sword and do spearwork and the wearing of armor failed to tire him, he grew restless and badgered Pardos until it was finally agreed that he might begin to earn his keep.

"Mara, there are many of you mainlanders who say that we of the Sea Isles are barbarians. It is true, but only in the sense that precious few of us have much Ehleen blood, and most of that is highly diluted. And at the time of which I am speaking, Lord Pardos and my father were the only Kath'ahrohs in the realm.

"Mara, our name for all who are not Sea Islanders is Pseheesteesohee—liars, in Merikanos. Our people never lie, not to teach other, nor do they steal from other Sea Islanders—not because of any fearsome punishment, but because either would be dishonorable. We are, needs must, a tightly knit and strongly interdependent society, and newcomers either learn to be honorable or they do not long survive.

"Our only hereditary title is that of Sea Lord, and even a legitimate heir may be set aside should the Council of Captains find serious fault in him.

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