Lion's Bride - Iris Johansen [98]
More than glad. She had two more allies in this scented prison, and her sense of helplessness was rapidly dispersing. She had only to wait and work and be patient and she would gain her freedom. In the meantime, she could control this world to which Ware had exiled her. She had learned long ago that one had only to supply what the enemy desired to be in a position of power. She had something Kemal wanted, and she could dangle it before the sheikh while undermining Ware in every possible way. She wouldn’t let Ware succeed in keeping her there against her will.
She would be the one to hold power at El Sunan.
EIGHTEEN MONTHS LATER
JUNE 10, 1191
EL SUNAN
KADAR GAZED UP at the branches of the mulberry trees with a sigh. “It seems a pity to have such pretty trees beset by pests. I’ve no admiration for your worms, Thea.”
“They aren’t pests. Everything feeds on something else. You don’t scorn the fine silk tunic I gave you.” She grimaced. “As I remember, you nagged at me unceasingly until I gave you what you wanted.”
“It was for our mutual good. I like fine garments.”
“And why is that good for me?”
“You could see me in them. I’m sure not one man in a thousand could show your work to such advantage.” He paused. “Except Ware. He’d look quite splendid in one of your tunics.”
It was a blatant lie, Thea thought. Kadar knew as well as she did that one never noticed what Ware wore; only the man himself. And it was the third time since he had arrived last night that he had mentioned Ware. It was clear he was leading up to something, but she had no intention of helping him. He knew she would not speak of Ware. She changed the subject. “It will be time to gather the cocoons soon.”
“I’m grateful the trees at Dundragon aren’t being put to such use. They flowered quite prettily this year. Of course, Ware has little opportunity to appreciate their beauty. He hasn’t returned to Dundragon for over a month. The border has exploded at rumors that King Richard will be arriving shortly to help Philip of France in this new siege of Acre. The rival sheikhs are edging closer because they know there’s a possibility Saladin may summon Kemal to help defend Acre.” Kadar smiled. “A man unbeatable in battle could be a boon to a city in such dire straits. Kemal’s fame as a warrior has spread even to Jerusalem.”
“Indeed?”
“You know it has. I’d wager you’re aware of every message that goes between Kemal and Saladin.”
She gazed at him innocently. “But how could that be? I’m only a humble slave here.”
“A most peculiar slave. Kemal permits you the freedom of the entire fortress. He’s even given you and Selene fine horses to ride when he believes women should never leave the harem.”
“We must have exercise if we’re to keep in good health. How can sick women perform their work?”
“And horses afford a much better chance at escape.”
“Kemal doesn’t worry about my escaping. He thinks me content.”
“Then he’s more fool than I believed. Oh, well, I suppose I shouldn’t be surprised at that indulgence when he gives you everything else you wish.”
Except one thing. Kemal had proved very stubborn, but if the situation at Acre was as desperate as she had heard, she might be close to gaining that prize. “Wasn’t giving me what I wish part of the agreement Ware made with Kemal?”
“Not to this extent.” He paused. “You play a dangerous game when you let him think the banner is responsible for his success. It’s incredible that his luck has held this long. One defeat and Kemal will turn against you. They burn witches, you know.”
“I’ll face that threat when I must.” She turned to face him. “It’s none of your concern, Kadar.”
“Unfortunately, it is my concern. I helped to bring you here.” He shook his head. “You’ve been