tor would learn of his brother's death. As a statesman
and ruler, he would understand that Urim's passing was incidental to a
change in power and one of the hazards of kinghood.

It was not likely, however, that Jaltor would regard in a similar light
an overt slight or actual cruelty to a niece. As a possible threat to
Pryak's position as king, Alurna was not to be considered; only a man
could rule men. For that reason alone, the high priest had no valid
excuse to do her harm.

His course, then, was plain; every effort must be made to win this girl
into regarding him as a friend, lest word reach Jaltor that his niece
was a mistreated prisoner in Sephar.

The chill faded from Pryak's expression like snow under a hot sun. "I
have been wrong, princess," he admitted, with passable humbleness. "As
Urim's daughter, you are entitled to every respect and honor. From now
on you may depend on being accorded both."

Alurna could hardly believe her ears. What had come over this old man,
to change him so quickly and completely?

Her response was instant and characteristic. "I want nothing from you,
priest!" she snapped.

Pryak lost his smile, but none of his urbanity. He beckoned to a nearby
attendant. "Escort the princess to her rooms," he instructed. "See to it
that her every wish is obeyed."

When Alurna had gone, a thoughtful Pryak dropped onto his stool across
from Orbar and pursed his lips reflectively.

"There must be some way to dispose of her," he said, "without incurring
the wrath of Jaltor."

Orbar grinned evilly. "A knife in the dark...." He let his voice trail
off meaningly.

"You are a fool!" growled the new king. "Her uncle and his men would be
at our gates within two moons. I dare not risk--"

He broke off as an under-priest came hurriedly from across the room and
bowed before him.

"What is it, Baltor?"

"The three nobles of Ammad are here, asking that you see them."

Pryak sighed. Here were others he must treat with deference, lest his
failure to do so cause international complications. He was beginning to
understand that even an all-powerful monarch must recognize the
importance of individuals other than himself. He felt vaguely
distressed....

"Bring them to me, here," he said.

* * * * *

A moment later Jotan, Tamar and Javan approached the seated men and bent
their heads in formal recognition.

"How may I, king of Sephar and Voice of the God, serve our nobl