The route to Santiago de Compostela meandered through valleys and deep forests, waterfalls tumbled from the heights and the further north they rode the more the sun’s warmth diminished. They had gifted half the horses to the people at Puebla de Sanabria. They were good horse stock from a king’s stables and valuable to trade. The remaining horses Blackstone’s men trailed with them as replacements, not knowing what hardship might lie ahead and take a toll on their mounts. They were close now to the final days in their mission to secure passage of the deposed Spanish King to the safety and support of Edward, Prince of Wales.

They found Don Pedro’s camp in a village three miles from Santiago de Compostela. Álvaraz rode out to greet them.

‘Sir Thomas, you held the bridge,’ he said, respect and surprise mingling in the compliment.

‘At a cost,’ said Blackstone.

Álvaraz looked at the riders and saw their depleted numbers. ‘And al-Hakam?’

‘The Moors took the fight to the French and fought like lions. Not one survived. They had more courage than most. I hope Don Pedro honours them.’

Álvaraz grimaced. ‘All is not well, Sir Thomas. He refused to stay at Puebla de Sanabria for fear that the English and French mercenaries would find a way past you.’

‘Your men who led us here told us,’ said Killbere. ‘What is it now? Does he have a fistula up his arse?’

Álvaraz smiled; he had missed the inherent disrespect the English held for those in authority. ‘Sir Gilbert, the Archbishop has refused him entry to Santiago.’

‘Galicia is loyal to the King,’ said John Jacob.

‘And the Archbishop is loyal to the Pope,’ Álvaraz said. ‘You know Don Pedro was excommunicated when he defied the Pope after aligning himself with the Moors.’

‘Is that all? An archbishop can’t stop him riding into the city,’ Killbere said.

‘Santiago throngs with pilgrims. People come to pray at the tomb of St James; they undertake an arduous journey to pray for loved ones who are stricken and for their own misdeeds to be forgiven. They come to request and behold blessings and miracles. The Archbishop can turn the city troops and militia against Don Pedro. How easy would it be to incite a mob, many of whom have committed violence in their lives? Don Pedro’s own violence and acts of murder are well known. They will not permit him to ride into the city.’

Blackstone felt the weight of this King’s reputation oppressing on him. ‘God’s tears, Álvaraz, I cannot wait to rid myself of this man.’ He heaved a sigh. ‘Very well, take us to him.’