Samantha put her face into the pillow and wept all night. By morning, the pillow was sopping wet with her bitter tears. Just when she thought she had found a man who loved and respected her, she finds out that he had been playing her for a fool. A knock at the door drew her attention and she raised her head,<br/><br/>“Go away.” She said, and flopped down, wailing again.<br/><br/>The door opened and the guardian crept in.<br/><br/>“Your heart is broken,” she said “but your belly is not. You need to eat and I have brought you some tea with toast. Now sit up and eat.”<br/>The old woman put the tray down on the table and crossed to the ewer where she poured water.<br/><br/>“Wash your face and  then let’s change your gown.”<br/><br/>Samantha obeyed. The tone of voice broached no argument and although she scowled, she recognized the authority.<br/><br/>“The Lady and Lord Varatt will be in to talk with you later. They will meet you at the salon at noon. You will be there and you will look decent. “<br/><br/>``````````````````````<br/>Samantha left the safety of the room with her hair combed and her face washed. The guardian came for her and led her through the halls of the Tor. Samantha marveled that the blind woman could know her way so well. The Lady rose and extended her hand,<br/><br/>“Welcome, Samantha. We are glad that you have come to us during this time of grief.”<br/><br/>Lord Varatt rose and enfolded her in a hug,<br/><br/>“Faren is a good man, Samantha. I know that woman and she is diabolical. Trust Faren and let us support you through this. “<br/><br/>The Lady Vivianne interjected,<br/><br/>“The guardian has seen the woman in the reflecting pool. This too will pass but you have to be strong. Are you willing to do that?”<br/>Samantha stared at her and nodded her head, slowly as a tear rolled down her cheek.