ll His Majesty
and tell him about the Family--stick around and give me moral support?"

"Of course."

"Thanks." Cortin made the call, almost wishing the King wouldn't
answer. When he did and she identified herself, though, she could hear
a smile in his voice.

"Good work, Colonel. Our congratulations to the newlyweds--please
bring them to the Palace when you're free, to accept them in person."

"My pleasure, Your Majesty--but there's more." Cortin took a deep
breath, hoping she didn't sound as nervous as she felt. "They've
adopted me as mother, and taken Cortin as the Family name."

"Outstanding," the King said with obvious satisfaction. "A slight
change, then. Bring them all over as soon as possible--Edward will be
waiting to bring you to the Throne Room."

"But what--" Cortin cut herself off. She'd find out soon enough; this
was just another example of His Majesty keeping his own counsel. Good
thing Dave and Tiny hadn't left yet . . . "Yes, Sire. Ten minutes,
unless you want us in dress uniform."

"Service uniform is fine. Ten minutes, then."

* * * * *

As promised, Prince Edward was waiting when they got to the Palace.
All except Cortin left their weapons with the armorer, then the Prince
led them to the Throne Room. His Majesty was seated on the Throne, in
everyday clothes but wearing the Crown and holding the Sword of State,
and the rest of the Sealed ones and Her Majesty the Queen were in
attendance. It looked like an informal Grand Audience, Cortin thought,
but that was a contradiction in terms--yet she'd never heard of Crown
and Sword being used at the same time except at a Coronation or Grand
Audience, and this certainly wasn't a Coronation!

The King smiled. "Thank you for your promptness, gentles. We
congratulate you on your marriage and your choice of a Family head, and
We offer Our best wishes for a long and happy Family life."

"Thank you, Your Majesty." His congratulations and good wishes were
welcome, Cortin thought, but hardly call for ceremonial . . .

"Neither your marriage nor what We will shortly do must be made public
until after the Strike Force is activated, but since it will require
you to make major changes in your lives, We have chosen to give you
some time to adapt in private." The King stood, descended from the
dais to stand in front of the Throne. "Joan Cortin, approach Us and
kneel."

Cortin obeyed, puzzled. Whatever was going