as good a reply an any, and Silas smiled as he bowed.

There is no strife between us, nor shall any come, Silas, Ingred sounded very certain in her reply. Csenta and I have always lived within each other's heart. We love too much to hate a little.

So it seems to us all, fair girls, but fate holds cards we can not see, and pulls threads across our lives that weave strange patterns.

All this is true, we know it. The fate of our land is upon our shoulders and therefore, magician, we have made a pact, Csenta spoke as if she knew everything in Silas's head.

Silas knew Csenta was bright. He knew her interests lie close to the kingdom's welfare. In fact, he liked her. He was however, astounded at her ability to see the politics of the kingdom, a manly art till now, so clearly. And how did you come to know I was concerned, he asked.

I told her, Ingred volunteered. I overheard father talking about how much trouble you were in.

Silas winced, I hope your majesties understand my concern is for you both.

Csenta spoke: Your concern lies where it should, Sir. The king would not have us inherit the land to see it destroyed. Yet, we would not have it destroyed either. What future did you see?

Silas knew this lady had a talent and he spoke to her as an equal, Csenta, I do not see the future as it must be, but I see what it will be if all remains as planned. You two will war, bickering over what your father left you like two vultures over carrion.

Ingred sniffed and smoothed her sleeve. She was, she knew, no vulture; a dove perhaps, but certainly no ugly thing.

Silas saw her displeasure. I see what there is to see and nothing more. You, Csenta, seem to grasp the problem. You spoke of a pact. Tell me what you have done.

We have decided to rule the land as a whole. I will rule the first seven years after father's death and Csenta will rule the next. After that, we will each rule for five years. The other shall have her own dwelling; her own life to live. No responsibility!

It goes deeper than that, Silas, but I don't expect you'd understand, Csenta said.

I, not underst. . ., he sputtered. He stopped mid word too, because he knew Csenta saw things that he did not and she saw without magic. She had insight, a tool as powerful as his own magic. It was, he had to admit, the first time he had seen it in a woman.

I know you have your plan, ladies, but might I interest you in another?

No, Ingred answered, not willing to

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