“Maybe not,” I said. “I don’t want to bring in an audience. And I can’t afford to lose any more of these crocks. Though they do make a satisfying noise when they smash. I suppose I’d better go and change this gown, try to scrub the marks out.”

“Salt,” said Grim. “Might do the trick. Don’t let him upset you again, eh? Meant well, most likely, but he should watch his words.”

“He was telling the truth, as he saw it. I expect he’ll be gone soon, more monasteries to visit, more lore to study. Lady Geiléis too, once the druid comes. Flannan being here—it’s got to bring the past back; it can’t be otherwise. And that brings a flood of bad feelings. Sorry I shouted at you. And . . . thanks.”

“What for?”

“Talking sense.” It was far more than that; so much more, I hadn’t the words for it. Nobody else could break through that rage when it overwhelmed me.

“Anytime.”

8

Grim

The day after they’ve had their argument, I see Flannan walking in the garden with the dog, Ripple. Looks like he’s got a lot on his mind. So much he’s not seeing what’s around him. Upset, and who wouldn’t be? They’re old friends, him and Blackthorn. Old friends don’t fight right after they’ve found each other. They don’t call each other cowards. Flannan sits down on a bench, bent over like he’s got a weight on his shoulders, and Ripple leans against him, puts her head on his knee. That dog’s the best-trained creature I’ve ever seen.

I was angry before, when she told me what he’d said. Now I feel sorry for both of them. I go over and sit down beside him. Flannan doesn’t say a word, not even good morning.

“Don’t suppose you want my advice,” I say after a while. “But you need to make your peace. Thing is, she’s not often happy these days. Been through some dark times. That smile on her face, when she saw you, that was a rare thing. Most likely you don’t know how rare.”

Flannan looks like he hasn’t had much sleep. He strokes Ripple’s ears and stares across the garden. Couple of fellows digging, too far away to hear us. “So she told you what I said.”

“Some of it, yes.”

“I didn’t think she would do that. Betray a confidence.”

“Whatever was said, it’ll go no further than me,” I say. “Her and me, we’re careful with our words. You need to talk to her again. Explain yourself to her. Hard to believe you think Blackthorn’s a coward. That’s what she told me. She’s the bravest person I’ve met in all my life.”

“Would she listen, Grim?” He’s looking at me now, looking properly. He’s just as upset as she was.

“She might throw things. Talk to her when she’s not busy—that’s my advice. And say what you mean straight-out.”