Free Behind the Veil by Linda Chaikin

that he no longer struggles with his conscience. Now he is like Irene—clever, scheming, and lacking integrity. Someday I will destroy Irene, and that hour is fast approaching. It is the only reason I remain here.”
    Tancred had another important question about Philip’s treatment of Helena. “Who betrayed her to Basel?”
    “When Lady Helena refused to show for the wedding to Philip, he became enraged; he  felt humiliated before the emperor. She despised Philip after learning of his treachery to you and your Redwan cousin. She would have nothing more to do with him. He knew she loved you—that there was no hope of regaining her devotion. In vengeance toward  both of you, he delivered her personally to Bishop Basel to bring her to Prince Kalid.”
    Tancred’s heart churned with anger. “He has sealed his doom this time. To betray me was a matter I could eventually overlook, but I will not forget what he has done to Helena. I will see him before I leave Constantinople. Can you arrange it?”
    Rufus mused, his dark eyes troubled. “I think it is possible. Do you intend to find Helena afterward?”
    “Yes, at whatever the cost.”
    “You will do what your convictions demand, but if she has already been sent to Antioch, you will face not only the sword of war, but the scimitar of the prince’s guards. They are a band of fanatical warriors who constantly surround him.  They will take death in order to protect him, Helena as well.”
    Tancred returned the scimitar. “I am aware of the way of the Moslem. You forget my mother was a Moor. Sword or scimitar, I will find her. And, I have a vow to keep, whatever the outcome.”
    “As you will.” Rufus glanced about casually. “Among Philip’s personal bodyguards there are certain men, no longer loyal, who respected both Nicholas and Lady Helena.  They are not pleased about Philip sending her to Basel. News has also circulated through one Captain Alexander that Philip treated you unjustly. The soldiers respected your leadership when you served in the imperial cavalry. They know Philip pretends to be a soldier when he is not. There is intrigue and discontent.”
    “Then Philip has enemies in the palace?”
    “Quite so.”
    “That is just what I hoped to hear.”
    “I have a plan. I have learned intrigue and deception well from the Byzantine masters. Meet me outside the wine shop tonight.”
     
    ***
     
    Rainald was anxiously awaiting Tancred’s return, and jumped to his feet the moment he came through the door. Rainald wore the uniform of an imposing Genoese naval captain, which required that he must soon leave for St. Symeon. Time was short to accomplish so much in Constantinople.
    “I was beginning to fear this man Rufus had betrayed you,” Rainald said. “Did you discover anything useful to your cause?”
    Tancred told him the news.
    Rainald measured him. “Your plans? Do you still wish to go to St. Symeon?  I am under orders to sail no later than tomorrow night. We intend to seize the port. The crusaders under the princes will not be far away.”
    The news added to Tancred’s restlessness. “I cannot leave until I confront Philip and free Nicholas.”
    Rainald picked up his two bags and walked to the door. “I’m returning to my ship. We will sail after midnight tomorrow, friend. I will look for you, but I cannot wait long.”
    “Understood.”
    They parted, and Tancred paced the room. He thought of what awaited him. The sun seemed to take longer than usual to set behind the sea of Marmara. Tonight he would meet with Rufus. What news would he bring?

Behind the Veil  / The Royal Pavilions boo k3 / Linda Chaikin
     
     
     
     
     

Chapter 8  
 
 
The Hippodrome
     
     
     
     
     
    Tancred walked alone down the street to the wine shop, his chain mesh concealed beneath dark clothing.
    Rufus drove up in a chariot. His face was strained, and Tancred noted he also appeared somewhat dazed.
    “Did you locate Bishop Nicholas?” Tancred asked in a low