After what felt like minutes, the MC gestured to the audience to be silent. Even then it took some time for everyone to settle down.

‘As we all know,’ he intoned dramatically, ‘the winner of the Games is permitted to ask for any prize. If it is within the power of the Chieftains to grant it, then grant it they shall.’ He gave a small smile. ‘In fact, there has only been one occasion in the Games’ five-hundred-year history when the requested prize was not given – and that was for a unicorn’s horn.’

There was an appreciative titter from the crowd. I glanced at Tipsania. Her shoulders were slumped; maybe her dalliance with Candy was nothing more than a way to pass the time. Perhaps she really did want Byron after all.

‘Byron Moncrieffe,’ Campbell continued. ‘What do you request?’

Byron’s emerald eyes momentarily caught mine. It was a fleeting look, so swift I wasn’t even sure if it had happened. He swallowed once, his Adam’s apple bobbing in his throat. I looked away, searching for my friends. The others were watching Byron but Taylor was looking at me. He gave me a bright smile and a thumbs up. I smiled back.

‘I would like,’ Byron said, ‘for the Adair lands to be returned to their Clan daughter.’ My head whipped round and my jaw dropped open. He looked at me. ‘Integrity Adair.’

I stared at him, shock holding me rigid. His expression didn’t flicker.

Carnegie was a different matter, however. He could have caught a swarm of dragonflies with his mouth. ‘Are you sure that’s what you want?’

‘Yes.’

‘But…’

Byron turned to him. ‘It’s my prize to claim,’ he said evenly, ‘and I have made my request.’

Campbell turned to the Chieftains. In theory I should be with them but I was glad that I wasn’t. I didn’t need to be beside them to know what some of them were saying; the sparks of anger in their eyes were enough.

Returning my lands was something which would cost the other Clans nothing in in terms of money. There were more than few muttered whispers indicating that they were calculating the risks but, with so many eyes watching, they couldn’t deny Byron. He knew it, I knew it and everyone else knew it too.

When Aifric got to his feet, he didn’t glance at his son as he addressed the crowd stiffly. ‘The Chieftains grant Byron Moncrieffe this prize,’ he said. He bowed once as everyone roared in approval.

I turned to Byron but he resolutely avoided my gaze. He folded his arms across his chest and nodded at Carnegie.

‘In that case,’ the MC boomed, ‘I declare these Games over!’

The audience rose to their feet. Everyone was yelling and clapping but Byron was already striding back off the stage. I stood up hastily, pushed back my chair and ran after him.