Piers, Anthony - ChroMagic 01 by Piers Anthony

Author:Piers, Anthony
Language: eng
Format: epub

Chapter 7: MinstrelChapter 7: Minstrel

320 Key to Havoc

It is enough, Sire. In fact it seemed to be more than enough, if the conta-gious strength of her passion was any indication. Still, he regretted not being

with Gale.

The matters requiring his attention were no better. There was a constant stream of niggling details of governance that Chief was fully competent to handle; but according to protocol, Havoc had to acquaint himself with them and make pronouncements. There were also direct appeals from citizens, for favors, justice, or recognition, that Havoc had to handle personally. These he liked better, as he was helping people directly. But overall,

being king was an uncomfortable bore.

There was also the matter of the unknown enemy. The one who had killed King Deal, and tried to ambush King Havoc. Neither he nor any other king was safe until that riddle was solved. He would far rather be out solving it than vegetating here in the huge city.

Why don't you, Havoc? Bijou asked him. He had removed the crown for one of their lovemaking sessions, as they both much preferred it that way. He loved Gale, and Bijou knew it, but in the physical and mental heat of passion, what they had together was undeniably real and intense. So she had read his other thought, and responded.

I have to stay here to be king, he thought. They spoke mentally, because that gave them special privacy. They had discovered that it was possible to lower their mind shields just enough to share their phrased thoughts, and whatever else they wished to, without being open for mind reading by others.

But you could sneak out, the way Gale did, leaving someone else here to impersonate you.

It was as if a great light dawned. He could do that! He grabbed Bijou and kissed her, and felt her answering thrill. This was not sexual, but appreciation for his appreciation. She loved having him happy with her.

Have Ennui set it up, he thought. Because concealment would be better if Havoc himself had no direct hand in the arrangements. Then he put the crown back on, held Bijou's hand, and slept.

Next day Chief had something else for him. "Sire, there is a People's Petition for your removal from office."

"A what?"

"The people fear an autocratic government, so have reserved the ultimate power for themselves. They can present a Petition, and require the Chroma to vote on it, and if seven of the ten do not support the king, he can be discharged. This is one of several devious mechanisms that counter the power of the king."

Piers Anthony 321

"Well, bring it on," Havoc said. "I don't want to be king anyway."

Chief smiled. "Not so fast, Sire. If you are dismissed within a year, it must be for cause, and this is dishonorable. But don't be concerned; this one is routine. There is a similar petition every year, or a month from the onset of

a new king. The Petition will be presented, and go out to the several Chroma, who will approve or disapprove it.

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