I hold fast to the dangling reins of Fenian's horse, wishing I could keep him from riding away with the war chief into what is sure to be a dangerous situation. The situation in the keep, however, might not be any safer than whatever awaits them at Magh Croimor. Dobhar's increasing recklessness is probably the smallest of all troubles here. My half-sister is quite mad and will not given up her claim to the title of Rian. The head spearman has fallen under her spell. And I am still reeling from the shock of Amlaidh and Verica running off together, but it can only bring more discord and hazard to the keep. I cling to the reins and wish and wish but without hope.

Dobhar has already galloped away, confident that the others will follow him. The two young ones are eager for a fight and they dash off in a clatter of hooves and whooping battle cries. Enna patiently trails after them. Aine rides out slowly, waiting for Fenian to catch up with her.

The horse dances and pulls away from me, anxious to be running after the rest of them. Fenian slips down, landing lightly beside me, abandoning the skittering horse for now. When I step into the warm circle of his arms, I could stay there forever, free of all care. Neither of us speak. His kiss is his promise.

Then he is away.

I stand and watch through the gates until Cormar takes my arm.

"Rian, a messenger was sent to Tara early this morning," he informs me.

"Good. Ruis should be with us soon, then, and perhaps the elder Brehon as well! Nemanda's question should be settled as quickly as possible."

As we cross the green to return to my hut, Daire hurries out to meet us. He starts babbling excitedly before we are even close enough to understand what he's saying. When I get the gist of it - Fraoch has taken Nemanda to his house - I can hardly believe my own ears.