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Arlyth nodded, and conveyed his thanks, "You are most generous, my lord." he bowed deeply, far more then he had to, and departed with his aunt.
~~~
Once inside his Aunt's chambers, the boy sighed and asked softly, "Aunt Sylquis... I..." he sighed again, and looked around, "Might I rest a while?" His aunt frowned at him. "That is not what you were going to say, Arlyth. Please, we are family; speak your mind." she smiled at him, "No harm will come to you here; I shall care for you as my own. It is the least I can do, child." the cleric said kindly. Arlyth swallowed, and looked at the floor, and took a step closer to her. "I... The Prince... he doesn't seem to like me. I... hadn't really expected a welcome here; but..." his aunt placed her arms around him again, and drew him close. A flashback of how Calaethis had held her as a child came sharply to mind. "Your reception wasn't exactly cold, dear." came the reply. "I know, I know... its just... well... we're meant to be cousins and..." Sylquis smiled and held him close. "Yes dear, I know. Now hush. If you wish, you may rest in my room." the boy nodded, glad to be around family in this strange place.
~~~
Meanwhile in the throne room...
~~~
Alaerth opened the letter. It read:
"Prince Alaerth & Princess Alae. I greet you with warmth, and wish you both well. I would be more formal and less abrupt, but I have little time for pleasentries; let alone formality. As you may have gathered, I am Calaethis, cousin to your late mother, by adoption. Though I grieve her passing, and have not contacted you before, I would ask a boon of you. There is grave danger to your kingdom coming. Yes, I know how this sounds. And yes, I know what Alliene thinks of me. It matters little. What matters, is that this darkness may consume you. I will not go into detail, lest this letter fall into the wrong hands. I have written a second letter to my sister in law; and she will know what to do. I understand that Alliene will be visiting you soon. Doubtless she will not be happy to see Arlyth here. I would ask that you keep him out of sight, and out of mind. I would trust no other to deliever this to you; and though it is somewhat unhelpful, you should know that there is a darkness coming to your kingdom. I wish I could help you further, but I cannot.
Farewell."
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