The Ciphers of Muirwood (Covenant of Muirwood #2)(101)

“There is a way, in fact. I am a maston, and Claredon Abbey is near the keep. I can cross through the Apse Veil. My grandmother is making it possible for other mastons to use them, but I have the power to use them before they are officially opened.”

His eyes widened with horror. “That would be utterly foolish!”

Maia bridled with offense, but she knew he was just concerned for her. “I can not stand aside and let Deorwynn be murdered. If my father is going to abrogate his oath to listen to my counsel, then he will do it in front of everyone, in front of the people. His Privy Council will not countermand him, but if I am there, some of them might have the courage.”

He clenched his jaw, his eyes scathing. “He will kill you, Maia.”

Maia refused to listen. “I do not believe he will. Not after I spared him here at Muirwood. He is humiliated and ashamed. He is wounded by his wife’s betrayal. I will calm him and help him see reason. He may divorce her, if he chooses, but putting her to death is an atrocity.”

“What that woman did to you was an atrocity! How can you possibly defend her?”

Maia shook her head. “Justice is not justice if it only satisfies our need for revenge. Besides, I spoke with Jayn Sexton at Whitsunday. She is a miserable, trapped creature. If I can manage it, I will help her cross the Apse Veil back here to Muirwood. My father would not go through with his threat if she were missing. I can do this. My heart is burning inside me, telling me that this is the right thing to do.”

Collier put his face in his hands, his expression bleak and tormented. “Talk to the Aldermaston first. We must be wise, Maia. I do not trust your father. He will seek your death. I cannot cross the Apse Veil with you, and it tortures me to be unable to protect you. You cannot go alone.”

Maia reached out and gripped his shoulder. “Then let us seek the Aldermaston’s wisdom. We have little time to decide.”





Hatred is settled anger.

—Richard Syon, Aldermaston of Muirwood Abbey





CHAPTER THIRTY-FIVE




Pent Tower



Maia had listened patiently to the counsel of those wiser than her, but she could not escape the pressing sense of urgency she had felt upon hearing the news of Lady Deorwynn’s pending execution. Perhaps she was being too hasty in making this decision, but it felt right in her heart, and no opposing whispers from the Medium warned her against it. In the end, the Aldermaston said it would be her decision. She had the power to cross the Apse Veil and try to prevent the murder and save Jayn.

“I feel a sense of danger regardless of the decision,” the Aldermaston said, his gaze penetrating hers. “Not a warning to proceed. Also, not a warning against it. Judging from my experience, the Medium is allowing you to make this decision yourself. Whatever the consequences.”

“But I do not like her going alone,” Collier pressed resolutely. He had already changed into his riding gear, the disguise he used with the identity of Feint Collier. He intended to ride hard for Comoros, but a horse was not fast enough. He paced the chamber, awaiting the final decision so he could embark quickly, not wanting to spare a moment.

“I will go with her,” Suzenne said, her tone serious. “She is my companion and my friend . . . as is Jayn.” She looked at Maia. “My heart pities Jayn’s situation. I have passed the maston test as well. If you can help me cross the Apse Veil, then I will join you.”

Collier stared at her doubtfully, his brow wrinkling. “I was thinking more like a half-dozen Evnissyen.”

“They all left the abbey to return to Pry-Ree,” Joanna said. “Only Jon Tayt remains, and he is not a maston.”

Collier frowned.

“Dodd will come with us,” Suzenne reassured Collier. “He has been training with Jon Tayt.”

“Not perfect, but better,” Collier said, wrinkling his brow. “I would feel calmer if you had someone there who could protect you. But was not Dodd’s Family killed recently?”

Maia looked at Suzenne in concern. “I know Dodd is eager to help us, but if he were recognized . . .”

Suzenne looked determined. “He will not let me go alone, and we need a protector. His Family is from the north. The people of Comoros would not recognize him, especially if he is not dressed like a noble. I would feel better if he came with us.”

“Then we will do it. We will travel in disguise in case my father’s servants are looking for us. The decision may be foolish, but I cannot stand by while my father abrogates his word so quickly. He swore an oath in front of the Privy Council. No act would be passed, no decisions made without my voice. If the situation is hopeless, we will return immediately.”

Her husband shook his head. “I can tell you already that it is. But I see you are determined, Maia. I will ride hard and try to join you.” Collier faced the others in the chamber. “Simon Fox is my spy at court. He is part of the merchants’ guild and transports wine from Dahomey to court. His business is close to the palace.” He turned back to Maia. “I am sure you can hire a guide to bring you there. It is on Flax Street. When you arrive, go there first and seek his counsel. He has connections with the court, especially with the chancellor, so he may be able to get you information or have a message delivered for you. That is where I will meet you.”