The following day found Charlaine and Danica readying their horses in the early morning chill. They eschewed their armour in favour of warm clothing, for the winter winds had picked up of late. They reckoned it to be a three-day trip accompanying the princess’s carriage, but with snow blanketing the ground, it could take considerably longer.
Charlaine was just placing her foot in the stirrup when Marlena burst into the courtyard. “Commander?”
“Something wrong?”
“We’ve received an urgent plea for help.”
“From whom?”
“Brother Gatan. There’s a riot at the Mathewite mission.”
“Where are their Temple Knights?”
“He doesn’t mention them.”
“Then order the morning patrol to assemble.” She turned to Danica as her aide ran back inside. “I’m afraid I shall be delayed. You go rendezvous with th
