And what of our bargain? Have I kept my word to you?’ It was our old litany. Once more I considered the terms he had offered me. He would feed me, clothe me and educate me, and in return he would have my complete loyalty. I smiled at the familiar words, but my throat closed at how the man who said them had wasted away, and what they had come to cost me. ‘Yes, my king. You have,’ I answered softly. ‘Good. Then see you keep your word to me as well.’ He leaned back heavily in his chair. ‘I shall, your majesty,’ I promised, and the Fool’s eyes met mine as he witnessed again that promise.
