Guardians Honor by Britt Kenley

Author:Britt Kenley [Kenley, Britt]
Language: nld
Format: epub
Tags: erotic MM, Romance MM
Published: 0101-01-01T00:00:00+00:00

Guardian’s Honor

49

He drew himself up and shook his head ruefully at his own thoughts. Now was not the time. Returning to his seat, he paused to take a sip of the hot liquid before turning his attention once more to the task ahead. “The first thing we need to do is figure out how to find this unknown duke.”

Varian leaned forward, obviously eager to get started. “I’ve been thinking about that, and I have some ideas. He is obviously working for the Angkeshi for some reason. Money? Maybe, but I doubt it.

There aren’t many impoverished dukedoms in the kingdom, but there are certainly easier ways of getting funds for the few that need them.”

Masun nodded, following Varian’s train of thoughts. “There are many wealthy men who would love to snare a dukedom for their daughters.”

“Exactly. That would be a much safer and more reasonable way to fill their coffers. Second, it’s hard for me to imagine that any one of the aristocrats just feel some sort of patriotic loyalty to Queen Kalandra.”

“I agree. I seriously doubt anyone would be part of this scheme just because they disagree with Kelan’s policies. Although it is a possibility,” Masun mused aloud. “Still, I believe you’re right that it’s only a slim one. It bears looking into, perhaps, if we can find nothing else. So you’ve ruled out greed and patriotism. What’s left?”

“Power.”

Masun sat back, his eyebrows raising at the firm tone of Varian’s voice. He thought about the possibility. When he didn’t say anything at first, Varian pressed on. “Think about it, Masun. If Kelan were unable to rule, say he was grief stricken over the loss of his wife, or if Kelan himself were to die, who would benefit?”

“Obviously Aric would assume the throne.”

Varian shook his head. “Not at first. He would be too young. A regent would be appointed, correct?”

Masun’s mind churned. “Of course. The most likely would be the Duke of Lorenclaw, the king’s uncle.” He shook his head. “But the 50

Britt Kenley

old duke is ill. He’s been sequestered on his estate for the past year.

I’ve heard his prognosis is not good.”

Varian slumped back. “I thought I had it figured out.”

Masun comforted him. “It was a good thought. Power is an excellent motivator. Perhaps we’re looking at this wrong. Perhaps we should be considering who else would benefit from the death of the queen.”

“Who?” Varian’s face wore a puzzled frown.

Masun thought back to the day that the king had come to see him.

The queen’s brother had looked at the king in a way that spoke of more than brotherly affection. “What do you know of Teris Bas Rillian?”

Varian looked surprised. “Queen Lyra’s brother?” He shook his head slowly. “Not much. He’s the lord of a prosperous fife in Averin Province. Became the duke when their father died several years ago.

He doesn’t come to the capital much. Why?”

“I’m wondering if jealousy might not be as strong a motivator as power?”

Dawning comprehension rose in Varian’s eyes. “You think he lusts for the king? That he killed his sister to get closer to him?”

Masun shrugged.

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