We sat in silence for a while, watching the day come up, hearing the faint sounds as household and farm awoke and came to life. It was a good place, near enough to the sky, far enough from man.

“I want to warn you,” said Red, twisting a strand of grass between his fingers. “For I’m not sure you understand how important it is to do as I say; to stay close to the house, and not go off on your own. It is safe enough here, though I fear not all of my household treat you with kindness. That can be changed. It is not this household that bothers me.” He pointed to the north, to the head of the valley. “That way lie my uncle Richard’s lands,” he said. “He is my mother’s brother, a powerful man, a man of great wealth and influence. It was his battle that my brother ran away to fight; it is his feud that costs so many women their sons, their husbands, and lovers. My people are bitter; it will be hard for them to make you welcome. What they cannot see is that it is this man’s quest for power, his lust for blood that keeps the old war alive, that poisons men’s minds so that they follow him to death or destruction. My brother was young; too young to pledge himself to such a cause. There was no need for him to hate. But Richard dazzles them, these young men, with his ready words. Maybe you know that. Maybe you have heard this story from my brother’s lips.”

I shook my head, amazed that he had chosen to tell me this. Not this story. For a man that usually said so little, he had revealed more of himself than he knew.

“You wonder why I tell you this,” said Red, appearing to catch my thoughts. “I tell you because my mother’s brother will learn soon enough that you are here. He has informants everywhere, and a sharp ear for rumor. He will be interested. More than interested. We can expect a visit. You will find it difficult, but there are those of my household that will help you. I wish to ensure that we are prepared for such a visit. That’s why I want to know where you are, always. He’s a clever man. It would suit him well to run into you, as if by chance, when you’re out riding or walking alone, with nothing but that apology for a hound to protect you. I want your promise that you will not allow this to happen.”

It’s easy, I said silently, and I mimed it for him. Why not lock me in my room, and keep the key in your pocket?

The strangest look crossed his face, as if he were trying not to laugh.

“I don’t think so,” he said, getting to his feet. “The light’s not so good in there, for spinning. Besides, how would I keep Ben and John busy, with nothing to do at night? Idleness is not healthy for them. No, I don’t think that would do at all. Now, do I have your promise?”