Makrov scowled but had the wit to recognise both the inevitability of defeat, and the face-saving retreat on offer. “Very well, I shall bring what solace Lumestra permits.”

Viktor offered a slight bow. “Thank you. Captain Kurkas won’t mind if I say that he, in particular, has been troubled by wavering faith. I’m sure he’ll welcome your guidance.”

Captain Kurkas didn’t look particularly welcoming at that moment. As Viktor retreated across the chamber, he drew near. “I’ll get you for this,” he whispered.

“Hush, captain, that’s just your inner torment speaking.”

Viktor patted Kurkas’ shoulder and halted before Calenne. “You’re free to go with him, if you wish. But with the Hadari on the march I’d ask you stay in Eskavord for now.”

She regarded him through narrowed eyes, wary of promises revoked. “Just ask?”

“I promised you freedom, and you have it. However, freedom sometimes brings the burden of doing not what we wish, but what is necessary.”

Calenne gave a slow nod. “I can stay with my mother. I hope so, at least. It’s been a long time since we last spoke.”

Viktor belatedly recalled that Calenne had been fostered and dispersed his puzzled frown before it had fully formed. “And should I need to speak with you?”

“I don’t think you’re welcome anywhere in Eskavord. But I’ll ask Elda to forgo emptying the slops bucket over your head if you come calling.” She offered a slight, lopsided smile. “I owe you that much.”

“She’s not going anywhere with you,” growled Josiri.

Viktor rounded on him. “I thought you weren’t your sister’s keeper? And I am staying here. We’ve matters to discuss.”

Josiri glowered but said nothing as Calenne and the others departed. A wise course. There was no victory for him in that moment, just as Viktor had intended. He’d come a long way in fifteen years. It could only be hoped that age had brought wisdom.

The doors swung closed.

“Alone at last,” said Viktor.

That wasn’t entirely true. He felt Anastacia’s presence in the passageway beyond. He’d have laid long odds against her eavesdropping. But the room was empty of challenge, and of witness. He could speak freely – as could Josiri, if he chose. If he could see beyond the past.

Josiri stared out through the eastern window and across the town. “Did you save Calenne’s life?”

“I had that honour, yes. Though I didn’t know who she was until after.”

“Then why do it?”

“Because there was no one else.”

“A dangerous philosophy, Lord Akadra. It killed my mother. It may yet kill you.” Josiri snorted and turned his back on the window. “Why are you here? Now, after all these years? Come to finish what you started?”

“Because of the Hadari. And to undo the damage of the past. I need your help with both.”