Padric snorted at that. He was not sure himself. But he told the tale as best he could. About his home and family, the mistrust of his neighbors and Rosheen’s friendship. He told of Fafnir, the journey to Hog’s Wallow and the changeling child in the woods. He told of the hunt for the Unwound and meeting the Thegn’s own men at Bairn’s Babble. Finally, he told of the terrible night in the forest and the emergence of the goblin wizard from the flames and Faabar’s unrelenting protection of the village. As he spoke, he grew disturbed, the words forced through grit teeth. This man had saved his life and deserved answers to his questions, but Padric deserved answers as well. He finished his tale and then looked the Thegn boldly in the eye.

“Why did you not help us?”

Kederic returned his stare, but did not bristle at its harshness or the angry tone in Padric’s voice. “Some of what you have said was known to me. Much and more was not. For some time, I have pleaded with the people of Hog’s Wallow to live under my protection, but they refused. Brogan was the largest voice of protest, but I believe they all felt as he did, believing themselves safe from the abominable horrors that stalk these lands. They put their faith in immortal champions and the mystical arts of Fae-folk, all the while ignoring that the greatest threat to their lives was that very allegiance.

“The Fae are wondrous beings, Padric. Immortal and fair, they have crafts and knowledge beyond the ken of man, and for years too impossible to count we have been caught in the middle of their wars and jealousies. They claim this isle to be under the stewardship of their Elf King, but he has not been seen since before my grandfather’s time and Airlann falls deeper into turmoil with each passing year. I have sailed across the waters to the east and seen the other Tin Isles and there are strange creatures that reside in those lands as well. Aye, even beyond in snow-covered Middangeard, giants and trolls roam the mountains. And it is said there are worse things in the deep forests of Outborders, where even I have never set foot.