“But Sibeal,” said Felix, his voice warm and sure, “of course you are there. Ken, the torch.” He looked over at Johnny, who stood with arms folded, his tattooed face somber. “I, too, understand the need for honesty where this interpretation is concerned. I will tell you that I learned the runes from my mother’s brother, a wise man skilled in certain arts. I do not pretend to Sibeal’s expertise, but I see what she cannot: the meaning that pertains to herself. Rad, the journey: it is the gods’ will that we go to the serpent isle. Eolh, the shield against harm. Perhaps the gods will protect us. Perhaps the shield is the skill and courage of those who are prepared to undertake the mission. And Ken: light in the darkness; clarity amidst confusion. The torch that illuminates our way. That is Sibeal.”

For a man who not so long ago had told me he did not want me to go, he had done an eloquent job of supporting my case. For a while, everyone was silent. Then Johnny said, “In times of old a chieftain would take his druid with him everywhere, even onto the field of war. But one does tend to imagine those druids as bearded ancients.”

“Conor was present at the battle with Northwoods,” put in Gull. “I doubt very much that he’d think of himself as a bearded ancient, though he does have the look of a venerable sage. And Fainne was also on that field of war.”

“True,” said Johnny. The memory had shadowed his eyes. “At the time our cousin was no older than Sibeal is now. It was Fainne’s presence that tipped the balance in our favor, though she achieved it at great cost.” He sighed. “Sibeal, I am impressed by your honesty. And by yours, Felix, since I suspect your personal inclination is for Sibeal to stay behind.”

Felix inclined his head in agreement. “The runes do not lie,” he said.

“Sibeal,” said Johnny, “you must understand that your presence on the venture would probably have a twofold effect. On the one hand, there is your expertise in the druidic arts, backed up by your conviction that the gods intend you to be there. On such a mission, spiritual guidance may play an important part. My crew will understand that. Against that understanding we must weigh your vulnerability, and the impact that might have on the men’s capacity to carry out what must be done. Every man on that ship will see it as his duty to protect you. Without that distraction a man might be better able to sail, to make decisions, to fight if need be. Cathal, what is your opinion?”

A hand fastened on my shoulder, making my heart jump. Svala had come up in silence. She made a little sound of inquiry.