> Zerika nodded. "Except for yourself, Duke, there were few students of Discretion who survived the Disaster. And of graduated, certified Discreets, I know of none at all." "Nor do I, Your Majesty." Zerika looked at Pel as if considering his character, or summoning her courage, or perhaps both. At length, with a sigh, she said, "My conscience stabs me, Your Discretion."
Pel took a step backward, and, for one of the few times in his life, an appearance of astonishment settled over his countenance. For a long moment he could say nothing, and, indeed, his hands were actually trembling. Who ca…