‘You must have at least a little imagination, Ségán. You must have seen what conflict can do to a person. You must know how grief and loss and abuse can wear a person down; make them less than they once were. When we first came here I did not know the prince. My experience of men in authority had not been good; as a result I mistrusted all of them. It took time to realise Prince Oran was a good man, just and fair. By then, I . . . I had become settled here. My friend, too. I was afraid to confess the truth about our past. Afraid we would lose our home and our livelihood.’

‘And yet, you say you know Prince Oran is just and fair.’

‘Fear does strange things to a person. I’m not proud to admit that I held this back. But I would have told him. I would have told both of them, Oran and Flidais. In time.’

‘We’re running out of time. When they return, either you tell them or I do. It’s important, Mistress Blackthorn.’

Oh, gods. I wished so much that I had told Oran long ago. Now, even if I did so willingly, it would look as if I had confessed only under pressure. ‘Will you let me tell him first? I would very much prefer that.’

‘Provided that occurs as early as possible, yes. I consider that the better way. He’ll need to know your written account exists, since it is rich in exactly the kind of detail that stands up well under scrutiny – names, dates, precise and factual descriptions of events. You should have been a lawman, Mistress Blackthorn.’

‘If you knew me better you would realise what a laughable idea that is.’ A shiver ran through me.

‘You have more questions, no doubt,’ Ségán said gravely. ‘Please remember that this conversation is in strictest confidence. Not one word to anyone, you understand? I don’t believe I need to repeat that to you, Mistress Blackthorn. Your enemy – who is also the enemy of Prince Oran and his wife – is a powerful man, and we know he has a long reach. As for how your statement might be used, any discussion of that must wait for the prince’s return.’ I made to interrupt, but he silenced me with a raised hand. ‘I understand he will be back within a few days. Believe me, I am not authorised to give you further information. Nor do I have all the details myself yet.’