“I’d say that’s a good bet,” Seregil replied. “Whoever it was, he wasn’t much of a conversationalist.”

“I must get down there soon,” said Klia.

“Next time,” said Thero. “I’ll take you back to camp.”

To Seregil’s surprise, Klia made no objection as Thero offered his arm and walked with her to where the horses were tethered. She was still pale.

Alec watched them go, brow furrowed slightly. “I’ve never seen her like that.”

“I don’t wonder,” said Micum, looking thoughtful.

Seregil raised an eyebrow. “What?”

Micum shrugged. “I think I’ll spend the night in the palace, having a look around. You see more ghosts in the dark, right? Or have you two had your fill of spooks for one day? You came up out of that tunnel pretty fast.”

Seregil snorted. “All I need is to dry out.”

“Me, too,” said Alec. “I think I’m actually getting used to ghosts.”

They set off the way they’d come and Seregil found himself riding beside Zella, who still looked shaken by Thero’s remonstrance.

“Tell me, what was the state of the innermost cave when it was first opened?” he asked.

“Just as you saw, I suppose. I went down once, but I didn’t like the feel of the place,” she replied.

“Really? I found it very beautiful.”

“As you say, my lord.”

“There’s recent damage there. Someone’s been taking souvenirs.”

“That’s strictly forbidden. I’ll speak to the foreman.”

“There had been a stone tablet blocking the entrance to the innermost tunnel. Did Toneus break it down?”

“He had it removed. It’s stored back at the palace.”

“I’d like a look at it when we return.”

“Of course.”

“Do you know how long ago it was blocked?” asked Seregil, struck by how uninterested she seemed in the matter.

“No, my lord. The place had fallen into disuse years ago, and as you pointed out earlier, the Plenimarans had no respect for the place. I imagine they blocked it up to keep the faithful from using the caves.”

“Are there many faithful left?” asked Klia, overhearing.

“Not during the occupation, as you might imagine. The locals seem to have little use for the place.”

“If I may, Your Highness,” said Seregil, “I think it might be better if the inner caves remain off limits for now, given the damage Alec and I saw.”

“A good idea,” said Klia. “I’ll have guards posted there when we get back to camp.”

By the time they reached the gate into Menosi again Klia appeared to have fully recovered but Thero still insisted on riding back to camp with her.

“Honestly, I’m fine!” she told him. “You’re needed here.”

“They can spare me for an hour. I’ll see you back, look in on Mika, and be back here before dark.”