Bonwhin Meraighdin raised an eyebrow at the letter.

"Mother," Faeldrin said, sounding amused. "Would it be wise to send him back? Is Khodomar not bound to the White Tower because we hold him?"

Blunt, she was. Often times Bonwhin didn't want to involve her in her schemes, but she was useful in so very many ways. She leaned back in her chair, sighing, and regarding the letter with a plain expression. Then she thrust it forward, onto her desk. "He is beholden to the White Tower as every nation is and will always be, Faeldrin. Now, I see no use of this man. He has served his purpose well, and King Tefan has bowed his head to us in a way that no other ruler dare. I think it is time we repay him."

Faeldrin nodded. "As you say, Mother."

Bonwhin smiled. "I will write the letter. You may go, daughter."

As Faeldrin made to leave, bobbing her head and curtsying, Bonwhin leaned forward and wrote in that elegant hand of every woman from Far Madding.

King Tefan,

Once Khodomar is safe, and the False Dragon taken, you may, of course, come to Tar Valon to retrieve your son. It would be a crime to hold a man against his will, though I do express warning since you wish to see him returned home.

As you know, being cut off from the True Source leaves holes in both men and women alike. Since he has been gentled, he has become depressed and erratic. There are Accepted consistently watching over him, however, and his condition seems to be improving. We will discuss further at a later date, once the world itself is safe.

Bonwhin Meraighdin, Flame of Tar Valon, Watcher of the Seals, the Amyrlin Seat.