‘A token of the battle for the cauldron,’ Calidus said. ‘Witchcraft was used by the Benothi, and the Jehar bore the brunt of it. Many died, and those who survived now bear this memento. Think of it like a scar. A badge of honour, of their bravery.’

‘This has happened to every one of them?’ Veradis asked.

‘Aye. Every last one who survived.’

‘What of your vision?’ Veradis said to Sumur, peering closely at the Jehar. ‘Is it hindered?’

‘No,’ Sumur replied, his accent thick.

Veradis frowned, not quite believing him.

Sumur threw his chicken leg into the air; faster than Veradis could track he drew his sword from his back and left a silver blur as the blade hissed through the air.

The chicken leg fell to the ground, in two portions, neatly chopped in half.

‘See,’ Sumur said, sheathing his sword smoothly.

Veradis shrugged. ‘Clearly your vision is fine.’

Calidus put an arm around Veradis’ shoulder and steered him away.

‘I wanted to talk to you,’ Calidus said. ‘Of the rebellion in Tenebral.’

‘We have just been speaking of it,’ Veradis said.

‘No surprise, it must be on your mind.’

‘Aye, it is.’

‘Kin, eh. You can choose your friends, but not your kin,’ Calidus said. ‘My kin have had a habit of getting me into trouble. Try and find the middle ground. Avoid bloodshed if you can.’ Calidus steered him back towards Uthandun. ‘Of course he is your kin so a peaceful solution must be sought, but even putting sentiment aside, we need your father, Ripa, and his swords. Only remember, most of all you must support Lykos, not undermine him. And let your support for him be seen.’

‘I will. Nathair has already asked as much.’

‘Good. There is more, though. The situation in Tenebral is delicate.’

‘What do you mean?’

‘Fidele is involved.’

‘Fidele, how?’

Calidus sighed a deep breath. ‘There is no easy way to say this. I suspect that her mind is unhinged.’

‘What?’

‘She has behaved most strangely, I fear there is no other explanation. You remember when we met with Lykos at Dun Carreg, he told us of how the barons of Tenebral were manipulating Fidele, how she was proving unsuited to ruling.’

‘Aye. Nathair thought that she was still grieving for Aquilus.’

‘Yes. Well, upon Lykos’ return Fidele began behaving in ever more erratic ways. She divided the eagle-guard and sent them to the four corners of the realm on meaningless errands. She arrested Peritus and Armatus.’ He stopped walking and looked back at Nathair, checking that he was well out of earshot. ‘She wed Lykos.’

‘What!’ I cannot believe that. Regal, cultured Fidele and that corsair.

‘It is true, and Nathair cannot know. Not yet. He has too much to focus on. I need you to bring her to me, discreetly. And by that I mean secretly, in chains if needs be.’

CHAPTER FORTY-ONE

RAFE