Flidais surprised me. The day after Bramble’s escape, my lady emerged from her quarters to take her place beside me at the breakfast table. Her appearance still gave me concern; though lovely as a spring flower in her deep blue gown and cream overdress, with her hair braided in a circlet, she was ghostly pale and had dark smudges under her eyes. I passed her the choicest morsels of food and ensured her ale cup was refilled. She sat quiet as a mouse, with Mhairi in attendance behind her. Her other women were seated with members of my household, and appeared to be enjoying their release from seclusion. Despite the very recent loss of one of their number, their table was lively with conversation.

‘I hope you are feeling better, Lady Flidais,’ said Donagan, who sat on my other side. ‘Prince Oran mentioned headaches. The local wise woman is very good, so folk say.’

Flidais managed a wan smile. ‘I am somewhat recovered, thank you. No need for the wise woman’s services. Does she visit the household often?’

‘Mistress Blackthorn is newly arrived in the district,’ I said. ‘I understand she mostly looks after the folk of the settlement and the farms. We’ll need to put some arrangement in place for the future, now that we are living permanently at Winterfalls. A household physician, perhaps, if you are not comfortable with a wise woman.’

Flidais made no comment.

‘My mother will most likely insist on a physician,’ I added, then caught Donagan’s look. I knew him well; he was warning me not to rush into the topic of childbirth and confinement. I turned a quelling look on him. My judgement was not quite as woefully askew as he believed. ‘But there is no need for a decision yet. I’m delighted that you are a little better, Flidais. It’s a fine day. Perhaps we might go walking after breakfast? I would love to show you some of the places we spoke of in our letters.’ She flinched visibly, and I remembered too late that I had been eloquent in my praise of Dreamer’s Wood. ‘Just around the farm for now. I know you enjoy a good walk, and Bramble’s recent adventure suggests she would appreciate the exercise. On the leash, of course. There are farm dogs here that would frighten her.’

‘Whatever you prefer, Oran. You must be busy.’

‘I think the household can do without me for a little,’ I said with a smile. ‘You’ll find my folk are very capable. If you prefer a quiet morning, I could show you my library. I have a small surprise for you there, which I’m hoping you will enjoy. But you must be the one to choose how we spend the day. I am at your service, my lady.’

She looked almost alarmed, though I had spoken lightly. ‘Oh,’ she said. ‘But it’s not for me – that is, a walk would be good. I should learn where everything is. And meet everyone. It seems quite a large household.’