“My lady,” she shouted, trying to be heard over the commotion. “We heard you might arrive during the night. The maidens have been flocking to Dundrennan daily. The people here are loyal to the king. So are the guards at the castle. Duke Fallon has ordered them to make preparations to welcome everyone. The women and children have been gathered into the castle. The menfolk are going to stay outside. The castle is on alert day and night.”

“Fallon is here?” she said, feeling a shudder of anticipation go through her. The news was unexpected.

“Yes! He arrived earlier today.”

“How many soldiers defend the castle?” Trynne asked.

Haley shrugged and frowned. “I heard some were called to defend Kingfountain. We have about five thousand. The duke can explain better than I can. Come to the castle.”

Trynne nodded, still not allowing herself to feel relieved. The king was waving to the crowd, looking regal despite his weariness from the punishing ride to the North. The cheers grew louder. Still, Trynne needed to be sure. She reached out with her magic, searching for any threats to the king. Her magic responded as it usually did in such moments. There were armed soldiers everywhere. The danger was real. But at the moment, there was no imminent threat.

The sharp clash of the horses’ hooves against the flagstones changed when they reached the wooden drawbridge of the fortress. Trynne craned her neck, looking up at the ramparts patrolled by knights holding spears and pennants. She was worried about meeting Fallon, but determined to speak openly with him. She needed to know about his connection with Morwenna. Needed to know what he knew.

The inner bailey was teeming with servants who led their weary mounts away to feed them fresh provender. A few young boys with shovels stayed behind to scoop up the filth left by some of the horses.

There he was among his men, giving orders and seeing to the needs of the arrivals. Fallon stood a head above his fellows, and it struck her anew how very tall and manly he had become. He looked as if he hadn’t shaved in days. When he glanced her way, their eyes met and she felt a jolt in her heart at the look he gave her—one of utter relief. She felt the same way. Despite all her questions, it soothed her heart to see him unharmed.

“My lord,” Fallon said as he came forward and bowed before the king’s horse. “Welcome back to Dundrennan. Although our food is being rationed in preparation for a siege, I’m sure we can find something to please you. Many people are waiting to speak to you, but you must also be very weary from the journey. The state rooms have been prepared for your arrival.”

“Thank you, Fallon,” Drew said with a sigh. “I would appreciate a moment of quiet. My ears are still ringing.”