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Bois from the recaptured galley. From them he obtained evidence concerning the impounded ships. Then he questioned Beorn and the captain regarding the false beacons and the two ships that had been lost, grinding his teeth to suppress his blasphemies. Having rewarded the men for their cleverness and devotion in keeping the womenfolk safe, he set his mind to composing a series of demands that would be so offensive that Comnenus would be constrained to refuse. |
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Twilight was drawing on by the time all business was completed and all had been refreshed by sufficient food and drink and even water for washing. Alinor feared that the King would retire to his own ship, taking Simon with him, with the excuse that he needed to plan the order of battle which it was clear he was determined to fight. Instead, to her delight, he sent for his chair and his lute, stretched his long legs, and, with an adoring woman seated on cushions on each side of him, began to sing. |
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Farther back, Alinor, also seated on a cushion, leaned against the ship's side with Simon's head pillowed on her lap. His eyes were raised to her face, but the insane hunger was gone from them. Alinor played gently with his hair, traced the curve of his lips with one finger. The King's strong, sweet voice rose and fell as the light failed and, one by one, the brilliant stars showed themselves and bejewelled the dark vault of the heavens. |
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"You are at peace, Simon?" Alinor murmured. |
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He knew what she meant. "I thank God, yes," he breathed. "You may trust me again. I will do you no hurt by force." |
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"I cannot explain. It had to do with the life I was living. I feltbefouled. You were a sweet, fresh spring. I had to drink of you to cleanse the filth from me." |
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Alinor made no reply, and Simon could not see her face in the dark. Torches had been set behind the King, |
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