There was a stampede for safety, men scrambling past one another in their frenzy, with Shadow snapping and snarling at their heels. Within moments, the women’s place was empty again, save for Eyvind and the dog. He noticed a strange kind of green mist on the ground and around his knees, a sort of vapor that clung and coiled eerily up his body. And when Rona came slowly out from the tower in the earth, the same green veil seemed to linger around her hands and her skirts before dissipating in the cool air. It appeared she had added a few touches of her own.

They stood side by side, watching the last remnants of the cottage burn. It was a hot fire; there was nothing to be saved. Eyvind put his arm around Rona’s shoulders; she was as fragile and bony as an ancient owl. It came to him that she was a being both wise and precious.

“I’m sorry,” he said. “I’m sorry I couldn’t save it.”

Rona muttered something and gestured with her hands. The house; her possessions. A sweep of the arms: all gone. She cupped her hands to her heart, tapped her fingers to her head, and gave her gapped and crooked smile. He thought he understood her. It’s all in the heart and the head, lad. That’s what matters.

After the burning, it was clear neither of them could stay there. They sheltered in the howe as night fell. Shadow stayed outside, perhaps knowing that now a constant watch must be maintained. Eyvind tried to explain to Rona what he had heard. It seemed vitally important.

“Nessa,” he said, knowing this name, at least, they had in common. He used his hands. “Men come—not for me, not for you—men come for Nessa. Somerled—find Nessa. Why? Why does he want her, Rona? Tell me.”

But like many old folk, the wise woman chose her own times to be helpful and her times to stay silent. She shrugged and said nothing.

“Please,” begged Eyvind, knowing he was talking to himself. Rona lay down on the ground with Nessa’s cloak over her for warmth. It was not a kind bed for an old woman. “Please tell me. I love her, I can’t let him hurt her. I understand what she is, and what I am. I know the best I can do is try to stand between her and danger, to help her as I promised. All I’m trying to do is put it together so I can understand: so I can know what to do next.”