ALEK EXCUSED HIMSELF, AND LEFT Cat in his father's study, reading. Our father, he reminded himself; what a strange idea. The first stop was the kitchen. Hiranes listened as Alek explained, a delighted smile spreading on his aged face. 'Yes, yes, I can do that.'

Alek grinned, 'Excellent. But don't forgetsecret.'

Hiranes nodded then turned and clapped his hands, calling for the kitchen staff. Alek left to find Vesbel, the castle's event organizer.

Vesbel was in her ...