‘Here we are,’ Isabella announced to the crowd gathered around the fire, and seized a wooden trencher from Jal, the only player whose name Mina could remember. Bacon and eggs sizzled on a huge metal platter. Isabella began loading some onto the trencher. Mama Tina was busy cooking more over the fire. Jal tried to grab Isabella around the waist, but she deftly side-stepped, announcing to the group:
‘You’ll have to tell Mina your names again, she’s forgotten them all. And while you’re at it, explain why you were all so friendly last night, you lechers!’
‘Because she is a luscious peach,’ said a man with a sharp nose and spiky black hair. His eyes were a brown so pale they were almost orange. He made an elaborate bow, but didn’t smile. ‘Roberto.’
He’d been introduced to her last night as S
