Dismay flashed across Celyn’s face. “My lord king, this is unnecessary. Thomas will go to Lindisfarne, as before. Aidan will speak for him to any who ask. These tales will die out.”
Before Oswy could answer, Thomas beat him to it. “No. He’s right, Celyn. I shouldn’t stay.” Despite his fear at the thought, he knew Oswy was right. He’d known it the night before, after hearing the guard’s words at the holding he’d stayed at, but he hadn’t wanted to face it. His presence at Bebbanburg only played into Wulfram’s hands. He would only harm Oswy by staying, and Aidan, too. “Brother Frithlac has already cast doubts about Aidan’s judgement in allowing me at the monastery. Wulfram is spreading these rumours, I am sure. The only way they can die down is for me to leave.”
Celyn’s face flushed, but h
