The sea kicked up against the rock, sending a spray of water over him. What better cleanse was there? He dove into the turbulent sea and began the swim back, rolled side to side by the waves as he fought to steer clear of the sharp rocks. Thankfully, he made it back to the mainland in one piece before climbing to the top without incident.

When he reached the ledge at the top, he paused to catch his breath, then took hold of the rope and began the final climb up. When his feet finally hit the wall walk, he looked around for Tatum, surprised to find Tolly instead, leaning against one of the embrasures and looking out to sea.

‘Tolly?’

His brother looked in his direction, a smile reaching his lips as he straightened. ‘Hello, brother.’

Blackmane walked over to where he stood, eyes raking over him. He looked strong and had colour back in his face, no doubt due to spending more time above ground.

‘I guess the rumours about your training are true,’ Tolly said. ‘That was one hell of a drill.’

Blackmane glanced in the direction of Flat Rock. ‘It’s a decent amount of work. What are you doing here?’

Tolly leaned on the embrasure again, looking around. ‘We met with King Becket.’

‘Ah.’ Blackmane crossed his arms. ‘How did it go?’

‘I like the man. He’s intelligent, and he listens. Those are rare traits in a king.’

Blackmane nodded slowly. ‘Did you meet the warden?’

‘Terrifying man.’

A soft chuckle came from Blackmane, his first in months. ‘True.’

‘King Becket seems in favour of our move towards independence,’ Tolly said. ‘Not surprising given we stand in the way of all your inland trade routes.’

‘Like you said, he’s intelligent. He’s also a peaceful man, which works in your favour.’

Tolly watched the water for a few moments. ‘At least we won’t be forced to meet again on the battlefield.’

‘I’d prefer not to kill you.’

Tolly’s amused gaze slid to him. ‘I’d like to think you would let me live.’

‘Hopefully we never have to find out.’

A few seconds of silence passed before Tolly said, ‘I saw Isabel a few days ago. She’s back in Llanelieu.’

Simply hearing her name spoken aloud made his pulse quicken. He was pleased to hear that she had returned to her home village, though. He had so many questions but was not sure if he wanted all the answers. ‘She seem well?’

‘Physically, she’s fine. She’s rebuilding Maddock House.’

He had expected that. There was no other home she would have settled for other than the one taken from her.

‘And when I say she’s rebuilding Maddock House, I mean she’s doing the labour herself. Ita and Rabbit are helping, of course, but she was sawing wood when we arrived, covered in dust.’