‘You’ve been studying hard, Prince Oran.’ Feabhal managed to make this sound like an insult, and this time my father noticed.

‘To good effect,’ he said. ‘I have heard something of the same criticism. I will consider your suggestion seriously, Oran, though there’s always a difficulty with these sensitive matters; it would be far better if I could speak to Lorcan in person.’

I seized the moment. ‘He will, of course, be invited to the hand-fasting. He’s a kinsman, isn’t he?’

My father favoured me with a smile, which was a rare occurrence. ‘Indeed,’ he said. ‘You show some perspicacity in this matter, Oran. I welcome that. When the opportunity arises I will have a word with Lorcan. As for the matter of where Lady Flidais should be accommodated, that decision must be made immediately. I should send a response to Lord Cadhan today by the swiftest messenger I can find. I don’t believe the issue needs further debate. If you want to house her at Winterfalls from the start, so be it. But speak to the queen, obtain her approval, and make sure you ask her about a suitable chaperone for the young lady.’

‘Of course, Father. I will do so straight away.’ I resisted the urge to leap up and do a little dance of triumph. Silently I thanked Donagan for helping me prepare my argument. It was true about the bards and druids, the scribes and scholars; but I had not thought of using them.

‘I’ll have my scribe draft the reply. Oran, I will need you again once it’s ready. The rest of you are dismissed.’

‘Yes, Father.’ I hesitated. ‘May I enclose a brief message for Lady Flidais?’

‘Go and talk to your mother first. If you’ve time to write a letter as well, do so. Be sure it really is brief.’