‘Think that was as much news for Conall as it was the rest of us,’ Braith said in Rafe’s ear.

‘That’s all I have to say,’ Rhin said and disappeared into the shadows of the keep. Conall stood there a moment, head bowed, then he strode after her.

The crowd dispersed slowly. Rafe decided it was time to find somewhere to wash the mud from his body, when a warrior of Cambren pushed through the crowd and called to Braith.

‘Queen Rhin wants to see you,’ the warrior said.

‘Come with me,’ Braith said, bending to massage a leg.

Rafe shrugged, though he didn’t much like the thought of being too close to Rhin. She scared him. They followed the warrior and he escorted them into the keep.

Rhin was waiting beside a fire-pit, shadows rippling across her face. She raised an eyebrow when she saw Rafe.

‘Legs are still a bit weak under me,’ Braith said by way of explanation.

‘Are you well enough for a long journey?’ Rhin said to Braith, no preamble.

‘I am,’ Braith said. ‘Long as I’m sitting on a horse, not walking. How far?’

‘To Ardan. Tracking. Hunting.’

‘I could do with some help.’

Rhin looked at Rafe. ‘You’re a huntsman, I believe.’ She looked him up and down.

‘I . . . I am,’ Rafe stuttered.

‘Good. There’s your help, then, Braith.’

‘What would you have me do?’ Braith asked.

‘Come ready to my chambers tonight, seventh candle. And be ready for the road.’

Rafe followed Braith hesitantly into Rhin’s chamber. It was late, the only light coming from a low-burning fire and a candle or two dotted around the room.

‘Sit,’ Rhin said, waving them to two chairs pulled close about the fire. She poured them both a cup of wine and then reclined, her eyes shining in the firelight. Shadows clung to the deep grooves of her face.

She looks exhausted, worse than normal.

‘What is the mission, my Queen?’ Braith said.

‘Ahh, Braith. My faithful Braith. You have served me well. I’m glad you didn’t die on a cold beach in Domhain.’

‘I’ll drink to that,’ Braith said as he raised his cup.

‘As to your mission. Well, it is based solely on a prediction, at the moment. It may not happen. Though I am usually right. If there is one thing I know well it is the hearts of men. But I will not speak of it yet. We must wait, and see if my suspicion is founded.’

‘I’ll just drink some more of this fine wine, then,’ Braith said.

‘As long as you are able to ride, you can drink all you like,’ Rhin smiled.

Rafe took a sip and settled back into his chair. For a while he listened to the low murmur of Braith and Rhin’s conversation, but in time his eyes drooped.