Chandos unrolled a map of the Breton march. ‘He could be anywhere, if he’s still alive.’

‘Have you heard of any ransom being demanded for those taken?’ said Blackstone.

‘None, and if you have wasted time searching for him, then you’ve done the Prince a disservice. You were expected here long before now.’

‘We did as the Prince ordered. We shadowed de Grailly’s flank, keeping French forces from attacking him. We took no part in the fighting at Cocherel.’

Chandos could not hide his irritation. ‘You continue to test a man’s patience. We have work to do here.’

Killbere picked his nose, examined the contents on the end of his finger and flicked it away. ‘And while you wet- nurse de Montfort, we stay loyal to men who fought with us. Beyard is a captain, he’s valued, and worth a few days of our time. And the fight hasn’t started yet, so where’s the harm?’

‘And we took time to escort villagers to safety away from one of your routier companies,’ said Blackstone.

Chandos raised his eyes from the map. ‘I allow none of the companies to destroy villages. They are led by Englishmen who gather to help us in the fight against Blois and his Bretons. Hugh Calveley, Hewitt and Latimer brought their routiers to me in the Prince’s name.’

‘It’s not them. The French believe you’re harbouring and protecting Ranulph de Hayle, who hides behind the name Ronec le Bête. He and his men raped and killed their way from Alençon.’

Chandos shook his head. ‘No! I stopped him. He plays both sides. He’ll kill anyone who gets in his way: French, Breton or English. I refused to take his routiers under de Montfort’s flag.’

‘Then you don’t know where he is?’ said Killbere.

‘No. And I would ask you not to pursue him, if that is your intention, because we have a problem. If we are not careful, our plan to defeat Charles of Blois will fail. Our young friend de Montfort might be a favourite of the King but he’s strong-willed.’ He poured wine and handed Blackstone and Killbere a beaker each.

‘Not unlike another twenty-five-year-old I knew,’ said Killbere, glancing at Blackstone over the rim. ‘And as belligerent now as then.’

Chandos needed no reminding but if he and Blackstone were to deliver Brittany to the King, then antagonism had to be put aside. ‘We have had our differences, Thomas, but although you’re the King’s Master of War I dare not let you chastise de Montfort. He’s too young to be rebuked for being impetuous.’ Chandos looked through the pavilion’s open flaps to where armed men sharpened blades and readied themselves for a fight. ‘He insists that we ride and confront Blois. He’s keen for victory.’