Lord Barin had asked if they might travel together as far as possible. Bron understood the underlying fear and agreed. They gave Marianne the wagon and horses. After saddling one horse for each rider, they packed their travel supplies on a couple of the spare horses and left the rest at the inn. "It isn't much and can never make up for your loss, but a few extra horses is the least those murderous bastards can do for you. Perhaps it will be enough for you to hire some help," Bron told her.
Barin had been honest about his son's abilities. Once he had a saddle that fit his size, the young lad was an excellent rider. It didn't take him long to overcome his shyness and when he saw how uncomfortable Keri was, began offering her tips. "How old are you?" Keri asked him.
"I am nine and a half!" he said proudly. Keri grinned at him. "That 'half' is pretty important, huh?" she teased.
"So how far are you going towards the capital, Bron? I would greatly appreciate the chance to try and reward you for your kindness to us." Barin asked.
"I know this may sound odd, Lord Barin, but it would be best if you didn't." Bron said simply.
Barin turned in his saddle and looked long and hard at Bron. "Are you in trouble of some kind?"
"Not trouble," Aeronwyn said, "so much. Over the years my father has made a few enemies and we would rather avoid trouble. Our friends will be glad to see us but we would like to keep a low profile. You understand, I am sure."
Barin nodded. "Even better as I want to make sure I have arrived at my father's mansion before my brother gets wind that his plan has failed. I am sorry. Your affairs are none of my business and I was wrong to ask. Still, if there is ever a time when you need a friend, no matter what, you may count on me. I owe you my life and that of my wife and son. That is a debt I will honor!"
"Thank you, my Lord. If ever we need your help, you may be sure we shall seek you out." Bron said, then changed the conversation.
That night, as they made camp, Halldora and Keri went to gather firewood. As soon as they were alone, Halldora said, "Do you mind if I ask you something?"
Keri shrugged. "Sure."
"Was I mistaken in the cave? I was the only one who was facing the entrance and I could have sworn I saw a ball of fire come from your hands." Halldora saw Keri stiffen as soon as she asked the question. "I'm sorry. Is this something you are not allowed to talk about?"
"Actually," Keri replied, relaxing as she realized Halldora was just curious, "I don't know. I have been with people who know about it and I guess that part of my education was missed." Keri looked thoughtful, then said, "Would you mind if I didn't answer until I have spoken with Rhainnon? If she tells me it's okay, I will explain. If not, can you accept that it is a secret just between us?"
Halldora smiled at Keri. "I can. You are unusually polite and well spoken. You are also exotic and quite beautiful. So is Rhiannon. I would have guessed you to be nobility? Ah well. There is a mystery here but I won't pry. "
They finished gathering firewood and returned to the camp. After they had eaten, Bron suggested a schedule for the watch. Except for Halldora and Alrek, they would split the watches, two on each shift, with Barin and Aeronwyn taking the first watch. Keri slipped into her bedroll and watched the flames of the small fire crackling until she fell asleep.
They made good time and after a week of travelling the road joined onto a main road the led to Ehart. They were now many travellers and, for the first time since they met, there was an inn. Barik stopped his horse. Looking at the inn thoughtfully, he asked, "I wonder if we should avoid inns? Is it possible my brother has other traps waiting in case the first one failed?"
Bron looked at the young nobleman with greater respect. "I agree. It is almost certain he has those who are watching for you. Shall we ride on and make camp ahead somewhere?"
Barin heard a groan behind him. "Sorry, love. I know you would love a hot bath and soft beds but until my brother is dealt with, I won't put us at risk again."
They rode past until the inn was out of sight, then turned off into the woods. Once they were just out of sight of the woods, they made camp with practiced skill and settled in for the night. Barin was building the fire and was kneeling to blow after the flint caught the light grass he used as a base. Keri was bringing some wood to the fire and as she bent down to place it, her necklace slipped out of her blouse and hung below her neck. Barin, sensing Keri behind him looked up and, seeing the necklace reached out with lightning speed and clasped his hand on the figurine.
"Where did you get this?" he whispered, shock evident in his voice.
