Ransom turned his head and gave Simon a confused look. “We’ve known each other for a long time now, Simon. I do consider you a friend.”
“Can I offer you a friend’s advice, then? Even if it is something you’ll not want to hear?”
A concerned lump formed in Ransom’s stomach. “Of course you can.”
“I’ve overheard Sir Robert talking to some of the others. He’s jealous of you, Ransom. Surely you know that.”
“If you thought that would surprise or offend me, you’re mistaken,” Ransom said softly, his insides throbbing with sudden anger.
“Wait until you hear what he says behind your back. What he says to Talbot and sometimes Alain. He said you’re playing Devon for the fool. That you and the princess have been meeting secretly.”
The injustice of the accusation stung him. “That’s not true,” he said, his temper flashing.
“Whether or not it’s true,” Simon said, his voice suddenly pleading, “be careful. Robert is watching you, determined to find you out or find something incriminating. I’ve seen her look at you, Ransom. Something’s changed. She used to look at you with indifference or scorn, but not anymore.”
Ransom closed his eyes, the anguish increasing. He wasn’t the only one who had noticed then. He opened his eyes and turned to look Simon in the face. “I swear on my honor I’ve done nothing wrong.” He held up his wrist and rubbed the braided bracelet that Claire had given to him. “I already wear a lady’s favor for all the world to see. And I would never betray the king.”
Simon looked at him, his expression neutral. “I believe you. But be careful, Ransom. Be very careful.”
They arrived in the beautiful seaside city of Ploemeur, and servants brought them up a winding cliff to the palace built atop a jagged mountain crest. It was a beautiful country with fields of ripe berries being harvested by farmers who lived in quaint cottages. The fortress was impressive and secluded, its strategic position atop the ridge making it unassailable by sea, and the switchbacks offered it protection from armies on foot or horseback.
They were greeted at the palace by Prince Goff and his wife, Duchess Constance. They appeared to be quite well matched despite the fact that she was several years older than the prince, who was now in his seventeenth year. The young couple enthusiastically proclaimed that Constance was with child. A troubled look crossed Noemie’s face, but she was gracious in her response, even though her expression seemed to indicate that she was repressing great pain.
The Argentine siblings had always bantered with each other, but not today. Devon’s mood soured immediately, and they were shown to their accommodations within the palace. While their luggage was brought up from the baggage horses, Ransom caught sight of Devon on his knees, trying to comfort Noemie, who was sobbing. It was clear the prince’s news had upset both of them, likely because Noemie’s womb had not yet quickened. He quietly withdrew, not wanting to intrude on such a private moment.
He walked the palace grounds, admiring the decorations and the breezy air gusting in from the huge open windows. His senses reached out in yet another attempt to detect the presence of the cloaked lady, but he did not feel her. The palace had a restful feeling about it, a sense of harmony with the Fountain. They would be safe here.
One of the glass doors led to an opulent balcony, so he wandered out there to take in the view. He watched as the waves crashed onto the beaches far below, which adjoined the town at the base of the ridge. From the heights, he could see the sanctuary of Our Lady of Toussan. It was an impressive structure, with tall towers that gleamed in the sunlight. As he stared at it, he recalled Queen Emiloh’s admonition to go there. The sanctuary of St. Penryn was farther east, but it was invisible in the distance—although he did get a sight of Averanche.
Ransom was still standing there, soaking in the atmosphere and the salty air of the sea, when he was found by the chamberlain of the castle.
“Some of the knights of the mesnie are interested in visiting the town below,” the steward said, smiling. “Shopping for trinkets. Would you care to join them? I was sent to find you.”
“Is my master planning on staying here?” Ransom asked. He wanted to be sure that someone was guarding Devon at all times.
“He would like to stay with his wife at the palace, I believe. Are you interested in joining the others?”
Confident Devon would be safe and under guard—even more so because of the peaceful feeling he got from the palace—Ransom said, “I should like to see the sanctuary of Our Lady of Toussan.”