The others groaned behind me. ‘What?’ Byron asked, humouring me. Yeah, he’d get tired of that pretty soon. I’d have to milk it while I could.

I drew back and met his eyes. ‘There can be only pun.’

***

A few days later, I was back at the same spot, gazing at Edinburgh and the land beyond. There had been skirmishes and fights and a lot of traded insults but some Highlanders and Lowlanders were beginning to integrate. It helped that the trolls were glaring at anyone who dared to think about breaching the peace. I was under the impression that they were absolutely delighted.

Bob flitted up, landing on the parapet in front of me. ‘Penny for your thoughts,’ he said.

I gave him a smile. ‘I was just wondering what my parents would have made of all this and if they’d be pleased that the Highlands and Lowlands are back together again. If they’d be happy that we’re going to co-exist with the Fomori demons or if they’d be terrified that we’d never find a way to get along.’

‘If they’re anything like you, Uh Integrity, they’d be thrilled. They’d be so proud of you. I know because I’m a magnificent all-knowing being with powers you can only dream of.’

I laughed slightly. ‘If you say so.’ I glanced round. ‘Where’s Byron?’

Bob sobered up. ‘Looking after his father’s remains.’

I bit my lip and nodded. Aifric might have been a bastard but he was still Byron’s father. Byron was going to be very mixed up about his feelings but he was a decent, good man and I knew he would grieve. ‘I’m surprised you’re still here,’ I said to Bob. ‘I thought you’d already be off looking for a new target. Those wishes ain’t gonna wish themselves.’

Bob toed the stone. ‘I thought I might hang around here for a while, if it’s alright with you.’

He didn’t look up so he didn’t see my happy grin. ‘It’s very alright with me.’

Bob suddenly beamed. ‘Really?’

‘Really.’

He leapt up into the air and somersaulted. ‘Great! I need your help then. All you have to do is to sneak my scimitar into Brochan’s pocket. You’re a thief, you can do it without him noticing. I think the big merman and I could have a lot of fun together.’

I watched him and he deflated slightly. ‘You’re not going to do it, are you?’

‘Nope.’

‘Uh Integrity! You’re just no fun.’

I smiled and gazed down the hill. If I squinted, I could make out May and Fergus. It looked as if she was introducing him to a group of Fomori demons. I shook my head in amusement. The Bauchan would end up running the entire country if we weren’t careful.

‘They make a good couple, don’t they?’ Bob beamed.

‘Yeah,’ I nodded. ‘They really do.’

‘So when are you going to do it?’

I glanced at him. ‘Do what?’

‘Duh! You know what. You and Byron. When are you going to tie the knot? Get hitched? Walk down the aisle? Take the plunge? Get yoked? Say I do?’