Page 32

Chapter 32

Danai

D anym kneeled before my throne, his head bowed in perfect submission as he spoke. “Our Priests report great success in the towns and villages throughout the Kingdom, Excellency. Far better than we originally anticipated. Your approach of offering necessities before attempting conversion is working brilliantly.”

I steepled my fingers and stared down. My liaison to the capital was proving a most effective leader among the clerics, allowing me to spend more time on overall strategy.

“And the detractors? Were they able to chip away at our support before the Five handled things?”

“There will always be those wary of our faith, but the Priests have not reported any more vocal opposition. Local Constables are chalking their deaths up to animal attacks, just as you predicted. Each was handled well out of the view of anyone who might raise suspicion,” Danym said.

“How many are we up to now?”

“Four have been eliminated, though that number may have increased since I received my last report. In some of the larger towns, that still leaves vocal detractors, but we followed your instructions to limit the Five to one incident per town . . . for the moment.”

“Make sure our people remain true to the plan. The Constables are likely comparing notes and searching for a pattern. As long as we keep things limited, their trail will run cold.”

“Yes, Excellency.”

“Good.” I stood. “What of the capital?”

Danym’s brow furrowed. “Fontaine is . . . a challenge. The coronation was well received, and the new Queen rides a wave of popularity. This will change as her reign ages, but for the moment, the people flock to her whenever she leaves the Palace. They hang on her every word and gesture.”

“What else? I can tell you hold back.”

“It is the Temple, Excellency. Despite Irina going up in flames, adherents to the old religion remain strident in their beliefs. Our Priests have been welcomed with wary eyes, even when carrying blankets and food for the poorest in the city. It will take some time for the people to accept our presence and good intentions.”

“Press the Priests. I want Temples built in every city and town. Spring will be here in four or five weeks, and I want a toehold in each location by summer’s end. If we had more Gifted, this would go much faster, but use what we have.” I paused and thought a moment, then looked at Danym. “You have done well. Get some rest. I want you back in Fontaine as soon as possible. Our brothers in that city need your guidance, now more than ever—and I believe you have a date planned, do you not?”

Danym grinned as he nodded. “Oh, I do, Excellency. Your most generous offer should make for an interesting first audience with our young Queen.”