“He’s awake,” Edonay said.
Tarquin’s head snapped up. “Can I see him?”
“Of course,” Prea said. “But not for long.” She glanced at Ainya, who nodded in agreement.
“We have to return to Kel as soon as possible,” Ainya explained. “As it is, we’ll be overdue at the castle because of the attack. I sent two shields back yesterday with news, but we should leave today, if we can.”
Tarquin nodded distantly, his attention entirely on Faladir. He limped on his bandaged ankle as he followed Prea into his brother’s sickroom.
It wasn’t cold in the larger room, but inside this one it was uncomfortably warm. Thick woven rugs covered the stone floor, and flames danced cheerfully from a small fireplace set in the wall. A teapot and three drinking bowls sat in front of it.
Faladir was on the bed, which
