I can't fail to notice the way Calliope is fawning all over the Brehyrion. Well, these Vertragus are like that, affectionate to their worst enemies. Still, I look closely at Calliope, lavishing large licks on Gwalchmai's person, she is rather taken with this man.

That says a lot to me. Animals and children seem to have some inner sense that tells them when a person is good or bad. And me? Well, I trust that sense in the animals and children. It seems to run to some other level than I'm capable of. For myself, I know that Morgaine is dedicated to the man and to the Trinovantes. She's no fool, as I well know, so I'll take my cue from that.

"Fond of hounds are you, Brehyrion?" I arch my brows as the large dog tries to climb into his lap.

Grinning wryly as he tries to dissuade Calliope's advances, Gwalchmai looks up at me for help. "Aye, I do. But, this one seems a bit affectionate, even for a lass."

Scratching her ears and disentangling himself from her paws, he laughs aloud. "Where did you get this minx? And is she as good at the chase as she is devilling her masters?"

Smiling myself, I tug sharply on Calliope's collar, disengaging her from her flirtation with the lord of the Trinovantes. Looking accusingly at me for having ruined her day, Calliope settles herself at the Brehyrion's feet, paws possessively laid across his feet.

"She's a fine one, isn't she?" I grin proudly. "A powerful courser to be sure." I look at the leader of the tribe, still looking down at the dog. "Calliope's one of the hounds that Rhys Catuvellauni breeds. They're said to be the finest in Britain!" I say smugly.

I can't fail to see Gwalchmai look across the table at Morgaine and her slight nod to tell him that she had squirreled away that bit of information. "Now," I look at my most illustrious customers, "what will it be today? We have roast boar, served sliced with a thick gravy; we have venison stew with fresh baked bread; and we have beef, well-cooked with herbs..."

After a whispered consultation, the Brehyrion and the first lady decide on the stew. As I turn to leave, I hear Morgaine's voice. "If you haven't already dined, Jodynn, the Brehyrion and I would be happy to have you join us."

Her voice is low, as she goes on. "There's something we'd like to discuss."

I nod at the First Advisor. "Delighted," I say, even though I've eaten in the past hour. I know there's something important up, and I wouldn't miss it for the world.