ROME

As the argument and quarreling ceased, Rome decided that he had had enough.

Skye bent over and whispered, "Your Majesty, let me throw the bitch out."

"Let her stay. We will have our time."

He turned to the members of the court. "Monica has stated the obvious. However, the law also allows that if the king chooses not to be given an arranged mistress or bride, he be given time to choose for himself." He paused and pointed. "Is this not so, Count Deliere?"

"It very well is, Your Majesty. It is indeed."

He turned to the Baron of Estered.

"Baron?"

The Baron, afraid and obviously already under Monica's...