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Page 251
each knew there was plenty of time for them to pleasure each other. The political problems in which they would be involved could not wait.
Just as they entered the gate, Math stalked up, spat viciously at Rhiannon, and ran his claws into Simon's leg. Both were too shocked to cry out, and stood staring, first at Math and then at each other, in blank amazement. Rhiannon had wondered after she and Simon became lovers whether Math would be jealous. He had given no sign of it, seemingly as affectionate to Simon as ever.
But now Math had stalked ill-naturedly out toward the woods. Since standing and staring at each other could not produce any answer, they continued on into the hall. Here they found the solution. Kicva rose from her knees beside a long wicker traveling basket as they entered.
"So that was why!" Rhiannon cried, and burst out laughing.
"Why?" Simon echoed.
"Math saw Mother packing my things. He is always furious when I go away." She laughed up at Simon. "Somehow he must know it is something to do with you. That is why you were punished worse. Sometimes I wonder if that cat is altogether of this world. He has always ignored my other suitors. Could it be that he smelled I was attracted to you and thought you would keep me from leaving?"
"I see that we are going," Simon said, smiling at Kicva, "but I hope it is not any trespass that has decided you to drive us out."
Kicva laughed at him. There had been a faint note of inquiry under his jesting remark. Simon had been certain Kicva knew and approved of his relationship with Rhiannon, but seeing her packing her daughter's things had worried him because, until she had laughed at his remark, she had looked rather stern and sad.
"Only a need for haste. The betrothal contracts came

 
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