An Unexpected Development

"Access?" Fred knew this was not true. "And who's hand opened the door to grant you access?"

Zular's face hardened. "Choose your words carefully Frederigo. Your thinly veiled accusation of thievery is most unpleasant. And quite unwarranted. It was your dear sister Frederina who gave me your cup."

Fred's jaw dropped. "How dare you use my sister's name," he said angrily.

"And so now you call me a liar," Zular grinned at Fred's outrage. "You are either incredibly brave or terribly stupid. You dare to insult my honor? Under my own roof?" The Duke fingered the jeweled dagger at his belt. "But I shall let it pass. This time." He crossed to the fireplace and took a gold ornament from the mantle. It was worth a small fortune, but he played with it in his hands like it was a toy. Turning to Fred, he said, "You have been away from the court for some time, Frederigo. It is a month's journey to the Southern Caves, and another month back. Since you left, your sister has gotten to know me quite well. In fact, when I asked her to be my escort d'honor for my upcoming twenty-first birthday she said yes. It will be quite a gala affair."

"I don't believe you. My father would never allow it."

"I must admit that the Duke was not pleased with the attention I gave your sister. At first. But I have found that persistence is a virtue that never goes unrewarded. Once your father was able to appreciate my more noble attributes, he was quite at ease with the growing relationship between your sister and I. Anyway, after you contacted me I asked her for the Chalice. She gave it most willingly. And I brought it here so that the oath we make together might be made more binding. When you drink from this Chalice, the honor of your entire House is at stake."

Fred looked at Zular with a growing hatred. He did not understand how his father could allow Frederina to consort with this man, but he would soon discover the truth of it. It could only be due to some secret hold Zular somehow managed to gain on his family. Until he was free of the Torturer's diabolic control, Fred would have to deal with this sly and evil lord. But afterwards, Fred swore Zular would finally get his just desserts.

"I ever seek to protect and hold high the honor of my House," Fred said. "As I am sure, you likewise hold dear the honor of your House, Duke Zular."

"Then I shall see you tonight," Zular smiled. When we all meet at the cottage house again. And together we shall drink a toast and change history."

1. Fred left and sought out his sister

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