It flickered in the darkness and she perceived that Raild had kindled a candle in a lantern. He picked it up and held it above his head. As he did so, the Duke put out his hand to Iona.
“Come,” he said, “there is no need to be afraid.”
“I am not! I am with you,” she replied simply and felt the answering response of his fingers.
She had to bend her head to pass through the opening in the rock, but once she had done so she found that the ceiling was high and it was easy not only for her but also for the Duke to stand upright.
Ahead lay a flight of roughly hewn stone steps, while behind her Iona heard the rumble of the stone that covered the entrance being set back in its place.
Raild started up the stairs, the lantern throwing a wide circle of light making it easy for Iona and the Duke
