The Singer's Crown by Elaine Isaak Page B

would catch upon her hip and quiver there. Beside her, Melisande lifted her skirt a little higher than propriety would wish. Had she not worn the coronet, the princess might be taken for a lady-in-waiting and her companion for a queen.
    Wolfram stood to welcome them when they arrived, and led his sister to her throne. “I am glad you have joined me today, Melisande.”
    She nodded vague acknowledgment as she sat down. The room, a chamber off the Great Hall, was bedecked with proud banners and a huge portrait of the king, a young, dashing figure with one hand on his sword hilt. His eyes were harsh and brilliant, watching every move his son made. Aside from a small honor guard, they were the only ones present.
    â€œI would speak with you before we hear court this morning,” Wolfram said, barely glancing at Kattanan. The lady Faedre had dropped to a deep curtsy, head bowed. She rose slowly, looking up at just the moment to catch the prince’s gaze; but she quickly turned and took a seat at the princess’s side. “I was visited by one of your ladies this morning.”
    â€œThe Countess DuLamoor? She visited me yesterday,” Melisande remarked.
    Wolfram sighed. “She does not approve of your new arrangement.” He glanced to Kattanan, who had settled on the dais between them.
    â€œIt’s not for her to approve me. She’s been imperious ever since Mother died.”
    â€œOur mother asked her to watch over you. She takes that request very seriously.”
    â€œWell, I am not a child anymore! She tries to rule me; and I don’t appreciate your taking her side.” Melisande shook her hair down her back. “Can I not decide who will serve me?”
    â€œI’m not asking you to take back your decision, only to be more courteous about it. You might begin by apologizing to her.” Wolfram held his hands low and beseeching.
    â€œI will not. She insulted my singer and told me I was not acting like royalty. She shall apologize to me if she ever wants to be in my presence again.”
    â€œHer husband is quite powerful among the other lords, and we need their support. I know she does not treat you as you would like, but—”
    â€œAs I would like? As she ought, don’t you mean!” She swished out of the chair and whirled on him. “I can’t wait until I am married and out of this place! Faedre!” she snapped, then grabbed handfuls of her gown and ran from the room. The lady rose smoothly, not neglecting to curtsy to the prince, and followed, still swaying. Kattanan rose also, but looked at the prince.
    â€œShe will want you there,” Wolfram said. His head sank to his hands. “Wine, Thomas.”
    The page came out of the shadows with a jug and goblet. He grinned briefly at Kattanan, then concentrated on the pouring. The singer set out at a trot after the princess. He found them in a wide sunny room well appointed with cushions and window seats not far away.
    â€œâ€”and I am about to be married! By any measure, I am a woman, but he just won’t see that!” Melisande was shouting, arms wide and beating at the air.
    Faedre sat watching her, nodding sagely. “It is plain to all save the countess. Your brother has had much to think about and may prefer not to be aware of your problems.”
    â€œWhat? What does he have on his mind? There is no war; Father is sick, but has been for a month. Yes, he lost his friend the baron, but the only event is to be my wedding, if I find a groom who lives! Even if I do, he will still think of me as his little sister. If I were firstborn, I should have married a minor lord and stayed here to be queen, then he would see.”
    â€œYou would be a bold and lovely queen, not weak-stomached and pensive.”
    â€œWe are complete opposites, he and I.” She planted her fists on her hips. “He’ll sit at court all day and decide nothing! What’s to think about? Farmers’