King Godwin turned to his son. He looked much as Godwin had at that age, muscled and powerful, though with a trace of his mothers good looks and lighter hair to remind him of her now she was gone. He sat atop a charger, his armor inlaid with shining blue. He looked impatient at the prospect of being stuck there, doing nothing. Probably, when hed heard that there was a dragon, hed been hoping he might get to fight one. He was still young enough to think he could win against everything.

The knights around him waited patiently for their kings instructions.

King Godwin knew there was only so much time they should be out. So close to the river, there was a risk of the southerners slipping across one of the bridges, and it was getting dark.

Take too long and the queen will think were both trying to get out of the wedding preparations, Rodry pointed out. It will take us long enough to get back, even riding hard.

There was that. With Lenores wedding just a week away, Aethe wasnt likely to be forgiving about it, especially not if he was off with Rodry. Despite his efforts, she still thought that he favored his three sons by Illia over the three daughters shed given him.

Well get back soon enough, King Godwin said. First, though, we need to do something about this. King Godwin glanced over to Grey before he continued. If people hear about a dragon, let alone a dead dragon, theyll think its an ill omen, and Ill not have ill omens the week of Lenores wedding.

No, of course not, Rodry said, looking ashamed that he hadnt thought of it himself. So what do we do?

The king had already thought of that. He walked over to the villagers first, taking out what coin he had.

You have my thanks for telling me about this, he said, passing them the coins. Now return to your homes and tell no one what youve seen. You were not here, this did not happen. If I hear otherwise…

They took the unspoken threat, bowing hastily.

Yes, my king, one said, before they both hurried off.

Now, he said, turning to Rodry and the knights. Ursus, youre the strongest; lets see how much strength you actually have. Fetch ropes, one of you, so we can all drag the beast.

The largest of his knights nodded in approval, and all of them set to work, rooting through saddlebags until one came out with some thick ropes. Trust Twell the planner to have everything needed.