There was little doubt in my mind as to what caused it. I had taken Dinard into my confidence, something I had never done with anyone. It was dangerous to both of us on many levels, and I didn’t want to think of him being in danger. My life was expendable, I always knew that, and I accepted it when I accepted the order of Paladin. Dinard was another matter. I doubted he completely understood the grave consequences he might face. Damn the wine, I thought. I knew better than to make any decision while under the slightest influence. I shuffled downstairs for breakfast and found myself stalling with a second cup of coffee. I was not sure where to start. For the most part, I had nothing to go on other than Dinard’s observation that Opus Dei was lurking about. I never cared for those bastards. It makes no difference—Opus Dei, Skull and Bones,11 Free Masons12—all secret societies with secret agendas. They made me feel almost clean. For one of the few times in my life, I felt helpless.
