CHAPTER 14
DespairThey decided to allow no more diversions, but to head straight across country towards the ridge of hills behind which they hoped to find the lake. Viviane and Idoc rode ahead, keeping very close together, deep in conversation — Caradawc behind them, morose and brooding, wondering if he would ever have Viviane to himself or indeed if they’d ever be free of Idoc. Olwen followed Caradawc silently, busy with her own thoughts. They questioned Gerin about his role as bridegroom. It seemed the bride’s father had offered him lands and riches beyond his wildest dreams, and he had accepted without even seeing the bride.
‘You’d marry a total stranger?’ Olwen asked in astonishment.
Gerin shrugged.
‘You’d do better to marry Olwen here,’ Viviane suggested quietly, and Olwen had flu
