“In parting, I reached a settlement with the west, an agreement which I hope will bring peace to the isle. Moray Breccan is to remain shackled in your prison for kidnapping the daughters of the east until you deem him fit to walk free again. Because he is in the east, I must go to the west. I leave you all today, and I want you to know that I will continue to hold each of you dearly in my memories and in the highest regard, even if I am never afforded the chance to walk among you again.

“May you continue to be prosperous, and may the spirits bless the east.”

Murmurs wove through the crowd. Adaira could hardly bear gazing at her old friends. Some of them looked sad, others were nodding in relief. Once, she had been great among them. Beloved and adored. Now she was regarded in various shades of sorrow, disgust, and disbelief.

So much had changed in a day.

She had spoken her last words to them, and the ring of power was on Torin’s hand. Her cousin walked with her across the dais, escorting her through one of the secret doors. Jack was on her heels, but before they could slip away, one of the people shouted, “What about Jack? The bard is ours now. Is he staying?”

Adaira hesitated, glancing at him.

Jack’s eyes widened. His surprise was evident, but he turned to look at the clan. “I go where she goes.”

“Then you’ll be playing for the west?” a woman called in anger. “You’ll be playing for our enemies?”

“Don’t answer that, Jack,” Torin warned under his breath. “Come, let’s go.”

But Jack stood on the threshold and said in a clear voice, “I play for Adaira and Adaira alone.”

Adaira was still reeling from his response by the time they emerged in the courtyard. Two horses stood tacked and ready on the moss-spangled flagstones.

“Can you send word to me when you arrive safely?” Torin asked once she was settled in the saddle.

“Yes, I’ll let you know,” Adaira replied, gathering the reins. She didn’t know how to say goodbye to Torin. She felt like a part of her was being ripped away, and she drew a deep breath when he squeezed her foot.

“I’m sorry, Adi,” he whispered, gazing up at her.

She met his stare. Her head was throbbing from all the tears she had swallowed. “It’s not your fault, Torin.”

“You will always have a home here with me and Sidra,” he said. “You don’t have to stay in the west. When Moray Breccan is released one day . . . I hope to see you return to us.”