Thats all right, milord, the man said, and it was only then that Devin realized what he must look like, still dressed in Halfins spare clothes. He hurried on quickly. He was getting closer to home, crossing the bridges from one district to the next, moving from cobbled streets to stones and dirt, having to watch more carefully around him to make sure the spaces between the wattle and daub houses contained no cutpurses.

There were signs of activity when he reached the small house his family called home: smoke from the chimney and sounds of people moving around within. Devin opened the door and went inside to find his parents at the dinner table, almost as he had left them. It seemed strange to him that everything should just be a normal morning then, especially when he hadnt been home for… well, days now.

His mother turned, and in that moment, Devin could see no real concern, only annoyance.

Where have you been? Why are you dressed like one of the rich folk?

His father stood up. Well? Where have you been?

Ive been up at the castle, Devin said. They wanted me to work some special metal for them. He could have left it at that, but the dream demanded more. I was traveling with Rodry and the knights.

You were what? his father said. Who are you to go talking about your betters like that?

I dont know, Devin said, the words almost seeming to slip out. Who am I?

The words stopped his parents short. At least, the people hed always thought of as his parents. In that moment though, he could see what was obvious: there was no resemblance there with him. There had certainly never been any love.

What do you mean, who are you? his mother demanded. Youre our son.

Then why can I do magic? Devin asked. Why do I have dreams of being given to you? What happened on Sarras?

His father stared at him then, his expression darkening. I told them. I told them when they brought you to me that you were too dangerous, that youd find out…

He stepped forward, and instinctively, Devin flinched. How many times had his father lashed out when he was drunk? How many bruises had Devin suffered?

Well, now that we know youre something twisted, his supposed father said, at least I dont have to hold back anymore.