A Song of Magic

By Elaine Royal Pischke

When Maia first arrived at Balaric Manor, her only desire was to learn midwifery from the retired midwife, Ida. But soon her quiet life was upended by the arrival of Ida's grandson, Cynric, and a company of knights protecting a pregnant princess escaping her abusive husband. Catherine is more than just a run-away wife. She is a pawn, used by her husband, Rufus, and brother, Richard, to gain political power, both of whom in turn are being used by a secret cadre of magical persons, The Grand Coven, who are trying to replace the present king, Elric, with one more malleable, a puppet they can control. Cynric knows about the Grand Coven because he has magical powers. His grandfather was killed by the Grand Coven for refusing to join them. So Cynric must hide his abilities or face the same fate. Maia also has a secret. She has musical talent, but more than that, she has memories of songs that have not yet been written.

The leader of the knights protecting Catherine is Sir Owen.  The other companions are Lady Margaret, Catherine's good friend; Sabrina, a serving girl who gets caught up in the action, and the knights Sir Liam, Sir Rylan, Sir Graeme, and trainees Evan and Aric.

One Grand Coven member, Keelan, keeps showing up. His motivations and purpose are unclear at first.

Cynric finds a young boy, Galen, who has magic and vows to protect him from the Grand Coven. Can Cynric's magic keep everyone safe? And how does Maia know songs that won't be written for centuries?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Elaine Royal Pischke
• Release date: Jan 23, 2024
• ISBN: 9798224853373

Book preview

Prelude - 2045

How could she possibly imagine that, at ninety-two years of age, her greatest adventure was about to begin? Her hair is white, swept back in a ponytail. Her health is still good, barring some aches and stiffness. She is content that her days are nearing an end.

She sips wine on her front porch, a favorite book on her lap. She gazes straight down the street, between the surf shop and Snack Shack, East to the open ocean, sparkling green blue in the mid-day sun. An old man watches her from a café across the street. His hair is also white, brushing the collar of his shirt. His white beard is neatly trimmed. He is thin, as he always has been. Finally, he stands and moves with surprising alacrity and purpose, straight toward the woman. He climbs the three steps to her porch and stands before her. She looks up. He smiles.

Hello. My name is Cynric, and I have a story to tell you.

Chapter 1  A Knight’s Errand

King Elric paced, circling the long oak table that dominated his council room. Colorful banners representing each of the eight realms in his kingdom lined the walls. In his mid-thirties, he was in his prime, but lines of worry were beginning to tell his age. He looked up as the door opened. The man who entered was younger by ten years. He was medium height with light brown hair, a muscular build, and brown eyes. He wore a serious expression that made him seem older. He approached the king and bowed.

Ah, Sir Owen. Thank you for coming so quickly.

Of course, Sire, the knight responded.

I know you are aware there are unusual happenings in some parts of the kingdom. I fear there are dark forces moving against us. The king paused and looked at Owen. We need to discover who is behind it and what they are planning.

Owen nodded. How can I be of service, My Lord?

I want you to pay a casual visit to Prince Rufus,

Owen looked questioningly at his king. For what purpose?

Some disturbing reports have been coming out of his domain. An unusual number of unexplained deaths at his hall, for one. Pay him a visit. Make it look like just a routine courtesy from his king. I have written a letter providing an explanation for the visit that should satisfy his curiosity. Remember, Owen, my brother has always been an obsequious type, and not always to be trusted, but I find it hard to believe he has truly evil intentions. Whatever is going on there, it may be the work of others. Just keep your eyes open and observe for a few days.

Owen nodded in acknowledgement. Yes, Sire. Is there anything else?

Yes. Please look in on Princess Catherine while you are there. My brother can be a bit of a brute. Be sure she is well treated. She is my wife’s cousin and they have always been close. We haven’t heard from her in a while and are concerned for her wellbeing.

Yes, Sire. Owen sensed there was more. He waited.

And take that new recruit with you, the king added, almost as if it were an afterthought.

The new recruit? Owen asked blankly. Do you mean that boy who has barely started training?

He’s not all that much younger than you, Owen. I believe he is twenty-two.

And too old to be starting training to be a knight. Most have begun by their fifteenth year. He can barely swing a sword. What help will he be?

Another set of eyes, for one. And one that no one will really notice. Tell anyone who asks he is your servant.

Owen looked doubtful.

I have a feeling that there is more to him than meets the eye. Anyway, it will give you an opportunity to assess his talents more closely. Consider it a secondary purpose to your trip.

Owen acquiesced with a bow.

Good. You can leave at first light.

The next morning, Owen retrieved the promised letter from King Elric, gathered his gear and headed for the stables. Elric had promised the boy – young man, Owen corrected himself – would be there. He was; waiting patiently and holding the reins of two fine horses. Cynric was taller than Owen by two inches, but much thinner, with dark brown hair and blue eyes. He looked eager to begin this adventure. He smiled as Owen approached.

Good morning, sir, Cynric began.

Cynric, Owen replied noncommittally. As this is your first official mission, you should be clear that I will do all the talking, all the fighting if there should be any, which we hope there will not, and most importantly, all of the thinking. Owen mounted his horse and Cynric did the same.

Of course, Sir, Cynric replied.

Good. Now, what have you been told about this journey?

That we are delivering an important letter to Prince Rufus and that I am to keep my eyes and ears open and do as you say.

Good. Do that and we should get on just fine.

The journey to Prince Rufus’ realm should take two days at an easy pace. Owen was not in the mood to take it easy. They kept to the main road and stopped only briefly that first day. Owen did not say much to his young companion, only what needed to be said. The young man did not say much, either, but kept a watchful eye out.

As the sun set, Owen halted. We can camp here. He dismounted. They had left the road and found a partially sheltered spot not far from a stream.

Cynric hopped off his horse and led both animals toward the water.

Fill my flask, will you? Owen called, tossing the empty flask at Cynric, who caught it.

So, sir, am I to be your servant in reality, or are we just practicing the act? Cynric inquired innocently.

Hmmm. Point taken. Would you please fill my flask since you are going?

I’d be delighted, sir. Cynric took the horses. He filled the two flasks, then waited for the horses to drink. When they had finished, he walked them back to the campsite, where Owen had a fire started. He settled and fed the horses before seating himself by the fire. He tossed a flask to Owen, who thanked him.

The two men dug into their rations and ate.

So, you seem good with the horses, Owen commented, looking for something to break the silence.

Yes, they seem to like me. We understand each other.

Owen snorted. "You understand each other?"

Oh, yes. They are remarkably sensitive creatures. We get along fine. Cynric took another bite of bread.

Well, that’s good, I suppose, Owen remarked without much thought. He finished his food and settled down onto his blanket. I want to get an early start in the morning. I’m hoping we reach Rufus’ castle by midday tomorrow. Get some sleep.

It was just a short while after midday when they passed through the gates of Burham Castle. It was a beautiful structure, smaller than most, but of a unique design. The walls were a light, almost white stone that reflected the sunlight. The outer wall surrounded a moderate citadel in the middle of a courtyard. Most of the town was outside the walls, though, so the castle offered little protection to the local people.

Owen and Cynric dismounted inside the gate. Cynric patted the horses reassuringly as a stable boy led them away. They entered the main door, and a guard approached them.

Please inform Prince Rufus that Sir Owen has arrived as an envoy from King Elric.

The guard nodded. Wait here. I will inform the prince of your presence.

Owen and Cynric looked around. They were in a vestibule connecting several corridors. The guard had vanished to the right. They heard footsteps approaching from the left, and feminine voices.

A moment later, two women, as different as day and night, entered the vestibule. One was short with raven black hair artfully arranged on her head, a few curls trailing down her back. Her eyes were dark brown and skin a flawless olive, an exotic beauty. The other woman was taller, with golden blond hair that was barely contained by a ribbon tied around her head. Her eyes were green. She was very pale, as though she had not seen the sun in months, or perhaps she had been sick. Her arms looked too thin for the rest of her. Still, Owen thought her face was lovely. He approached the women and bowed.

Princess Catherine. It is lovely to see you again.

Have we met? the blond woman eyed him curiously."

Pardon me. I am Sir Owen. We met briefly at King Elric’s birthday celebration at Deverell shortly before your marriage.

Oh, yes, I remember now. Happy times those were. You played the harp and sang. Quite beautifully as I recall.

You are too kind.

May I introduce my companion, Lady Margaret.

The small, dark woman curtseyed, and Owen bowed to her. I am pleased to meet you, Lady. He turned back to Princess Catherine. I am here on an errand for King Elric.  Queen Emelyne is concerned for your health and has charged me with assuring that you are well and happy here.

For a moment she said nothing. She looked tired and sad. And frightened, he thought. But then she smiled and answered, Please inform my cousin that I am well. She is kind to worry.

Cynric noticed Lady Margaret’s reaction to this. She opened her mouth to speak, then closed it. He thought she wanted to contradict Catherine’s words. She did not look happy about something. He filed this away for further consideration.

A door to the right flung open and Prince Rufus, a rather large and boisterous man with light brown hair cut close to his head, and a round face, burst into the room. Sir Owen! To what do I owe this honor? Then he noticed the women and his expression changed in an instant from gregarious welcome to fury. Catherine!  What are you doing out here? Get back to your rooms.

I’m sorry my lord, she whimpered. We did not expect to see anyone, and just wanted...

I don’t care what you wanted. Get out!

The women turned and fled.

Owen and Cynric were speechless.

Rufus’ demeanor immediately changed again. He laughed. Women. What can you do? Now, Owen, what brings you here?

Owen recovered his composure quickly. He withdrew the letter he carried from King Elric and handed it to Rufus. Elric is conducting a review of all the realms in anticipation of possible trouble from the Danes. I am to inspect all armaments, troops, and contingency plans to be sure we are ready should the need arise.

Rufus took the letter and perused it briefly. So, my brother is expecting trouble?

Owen knew this was mostly an excuse for him to spy on Rufus but nodded. It seems remote at present, but there have been some indications they are preparing to invade. He wants to be sure we are ready.

And my brother does not trust my word that I have my realm well in hand? Rufus bellowed.

I cannot say what King Elric thinks in that regard. I only know my orders.

Hmph. Very well. Do your duty to your king. I will not stop you. But you will find everything in my realm in perfect order.

Owen doubted that, but gave a small smile and said, Thank you, my lord.

Well, then, since you’ll be staying for a few days, it seems, I’ll have a servant prepare a room for you and your servant. And you must join my wife and me for dinner this evening. Rufus smiled and slapped Owen on the back.

Of course. I look forward to it.

I don’t like the way Rufus treats the Princess, Cynric complained the moment they were alone.

Nor do I, Owen agreed. Something is not right with her. I will be dining with them tonight. I don’t know what I can learn with Rufus present, but I’ll observe what I can.

I want to talk with Lady Margaret. Did you see her face when Catherine said she was fine? I don’t think she agrees.

Good idea. Learn all you can from her. Meanwhile, I’ve got carte blanche to wander the place provided I can find a way to relate it to my ‘inspection’. I’m going to begin right now. He picked up a pile of papers wrapped in a leather pouch and headed out.

Cynric wandered the hallways, pretending to be a servant on a mission. Well, he supposed he was. Just not the kind of mission one would assume. If anyone asked, he was going to pretend he was looking for a pitcher to get some water. He noticed there was not one in their room.

For a place this size, he thought there were not a lot of people about. Most of the rooms he passed were empty. One or two had a servant straightening up. In one he heard voices, male voices. He moved on. He turned down another corridor and climbed some stairs. He passed a room with an open door. He heard voices, female this time, and stopped to listen. He could not make out the words, but suddenly one was walking his way. He ducked around a corner.

Lady Margaret left the room, closing the door. She walked past Cynric. He followed her. They entered another corridor. No one else was around. He called out quietly. Lady Margaret!

She turned quickly, a look of alarm on her face. He approached her cautiously. Please, may I talk to you?

You are Sir Owen’s servant, she said, recognizing him.

Yes, well... he replied. Is there a place to talk privately?

She motioned for him to follow her. She led him further along the corridor and around the corner into a room with a four-poster bed with blue and gold bedding, a vanity holding a hairbrush and some bottles, a desk containing a small, neat pile of books, and a red cushioned chair draped with an unfinished embroidered cloth. They entered and she closed the door. This is my room. No one will enter.

Good. King Elric wants to know how his brother is treating Princess Catherine. Owen and I were not convinced by her assurance that she is fine.

Nor should you be. Because she is not! Margaret said heatedly.

Tell me. We will do what we can to help.

He never lets her out of his sight. If he is not watching her, one of his spies is. She is never allowed to leave the castle, even to ride, unless he goes with her. She is not allowed to talk to anyone other than the servants or me unless he is present. I am her only friend. And I am not allowed to leave, either. I have spoken to no one because he expects me to always be with her when he is not.

You are not with her now, Cynric pointed out.

She is resting. I just came to my room to find a book to read.

Will you be dining with Catherine and Rufus and Owen?

No, I dine separately from them, alone.

So, what else? He sounds like a very jealous type.

Extremely. He treats her horribly. He beats her for every slight transgression, or what he sees as transgressions. Failing to smile at him. Failing to obey his ridiculous commands. Talking to anyone. You can be sure he will beat her for talking to Sir Owen.

Cynric was appalled. Owen will be distressed to hear that.

And the worst is he rapes her.

What? But they are married...

And you think that makes it acceptable? She retorted angrily.

No, certainly not. I just never thought...

Of course, you didn’t. Men don’t. Then she calmed down. I’m sorry, that is not fair. You are young. You haven’t seen what this world can be like for women.

He did not respond. She was probably right, but he did not like being thought of as a child.

And even now, when she carries his child...

Cynric suddenly felt intense hatred for Rufus. No!

Oh, yes. I would have thought when she told him she was pregnant he would have started treating her better. But instead, it has gotten worse. He accuses her of adultery. With whom? She sees no one. The male servants are afraid to go near her, for fear of being suspects. He is insane. But in public, it’s a different story. He tells everyone what a loving wife she is, how happy he is that they are going to have a child. I pity the child who has Rufus as a father! Margaret paced around the room.

Cynric had the feeling she had needed to let all this out for a long time. Thank you for the information. I will discuss it with Owen. We will find a way to help. I promise.

The only way to help is to get her away from here.

Cynric nodded. He headed for the door.

Wait. Meet me here tomorrow morning just after breakfast. Perhaps you will have a plan. He nodded. She opened the door and peered out. She motioned for him to go. He slipped down the corridor and out of sight.

He and Owen had much to discuss.

Owen entered the dining hall expecting to find only Rufus and Catherine. Instead, two other people were also in attendance. One was a tall, bald man in his forties. He was dressed in black robes with gold trim. He had sharp gray eyes that followed Owen as he entered. The other was an older woman, thin but hardly frail. She had grey hair wound in a braid around her head. She was also dressed mostly in black. The two stood talking to Rufus as Owen entered. Owen noted Catherine standing alone across the room. Normally he would have approached her and greeted her out of politeness, but after the conversation he had just had with Cynric, he decided a polite nod was all he would risk. He approached Rufus instead.

Ah, Owen. How kind of you to join us. May I introduce Lady Priscilla and her son, Gerald. They are also here to assess the strength of my realm and offer their assistance. Rufus said.

Owen wondered what kind of ‘assistance’ these two were offering.

I am pleased to make your acquaintance, Owen bowed to the two other guests. Lady Priscilla and Gerald acknowledged him with the briefest of nods, then turned back toward Rufus.

Please, everyone be seated, Rufus invited.

Rufus seated himself at one end of the table and Catherine at the other. Owen sat across from Lady Priscilla and Gerald. This should be interesting, he thought.

He thought wrong. The conversation was generally polite and pointedly not remarkably interesting. For the most part, Rufus blathered on about nothing of importance, not once addressing his wife. Catherine said nothing except, yes, please when offered more wine. Clearly Owen was not going to make any headway in that direction tonight. He concentrated on getting to know something about the other two dinner guests.

May I ask, where are you from, Lady Priscilla? he inquired politely.

Two days’ ride north of here, she replied vaguely.

So, are you concerned about the Danes as well? he prodded. Perhaps he could get them to reveal a hint as to their business here.

We have no intelligence that there is a threat from that direction, Gerald responded between bites.

Hmm. Really, Owen replied casually. Then, what brings you here?

The hunt, Lady Priscilla looked at him as if she considered him dull-witted.

Owen returned the expression. What hunt?

Rufus looked delighted. Oh, of course you don’t know. There will be a hunt in three days. You are welcome to join us. I’m expecting one more guest to arrive the day after tomorrow, then we’ll begin. I suppose you will have finished your inspection by then?

I expect so.

Good, good. Well, that’s settled.

Owen was not so sure it was. There was something about these two that was disconcerting. He was not at all certain that going on a hunting trip with them would be conducive to a long life and good health.

That night Owen and Cynric concocted the beginnings of a plan. Cynric would return to Deverell and inform King Elric what was happening to Catherine. Elric could decide the next move. Owen would continue to try to learn all he could about Rufus’ activities. Cynric would meet with Lady Margaret in the morning and let her know.

But Margaret had concerns. What can Elric do? He cannot openly accuse his brother. It could lead to war.

Then what should we do? Cynric was frustrated.

Go to him but come up with a plan we can put in play in secret. Perhaps it is best if you do not return here. It might look suspicious. Send someone else.

No, that’s no better. Cynric thought for a moment. Is there someone you trust who is free to leave the castle, who can carry messages?

Perhaps, she thought. Yes, there is a girl who works in the kitchens. She doesn’t live here, she’s from the town, so she comes in the morning and leaves every night. Her name is Sabrina. When you come back, find her and she will find me. She lives near The Laughing Cat Pub. I think her uncle owns it. I’ll tell her to look for you there.

Thank you, Lady Margaret. I will return as quickly as I can. Cynric bowed and headed for the stables. He saddled up his mare, Daisy, and gave her a pat on the neck. Cheer up, girl, we’re going home. You’ll see your boyfriend soon. Daisy gave a happy snort and off they went.

Cynric rode straight through to King Elric’s castle, with only a short break for a few hours of sleep. Deverell was massive, surrounded by a tall gray stone wall, with circular guard towers on the western and eastern approaches. Inside the main gate were streets filled with merchants’ stalls and homes for the many citizens of the town. The main street led through another gate, where a wall surrounded the citadel in which King Elric, his knights, and members of the court resided.

King Elric received Cynric in his private study as soon as he arrived. The room was sparsely decorated, featuring a desk, stacks of books and papers, and three chairs. What have you learned about my brother’s activities? Elric asked.

Not much yet. Sir Owen is still working on that. There are two other guests who seem suspicious, but we don’t really know who they are or what they want.

Do they have names?

Lady Priscilla and her son, Gerald.

King Elric wrinkled his brow. "Who?"

Cynric shrugged. I take it you do not know them either?

Indeed, I do not. But I will soon remedy that. What of Princess Catherine?

That news is not good. It appears she is sorely mistreated. Her friend, Lady Margaret, is keen to help us get her away from your brother. Cynric relayed all that Margaret had told him.

That nasty little arse, Elric stormed. This will not do. But you know I cannot act directly, or I risk open warfare. I cannot risk my soldiers or citizens, or his for that matter, for one woman.

Surely we can’t leave her at his mercy, Cynric protested.

No, you are right. We need a plan. I can spare a few men for the rescue.

Sire, if I may, I think that, with Margaret’s help, Owen and I can smuggle her out. I think that is better than sending a larger party. There will be less notice taken.

King Elric thought for a moment. How will you get her out?

I’ll think of something, he said vaguely.

That’s not much of a plan, Cynric.

Cyric smiled. I work best when I wing it.

Well, that may be. But her life is at stake. Be careful. If you can get her out, you must bring her here, King Elric said. Rufus will not suspect me at first. He will assume she went to her brother. That will buy us time. In fact, I will send two men to leave a false trail leading straight toward Richard.

Good thinking, Sire.

It happens on occasion, the king responded. Cynric turned red.

So... Elric inquired.

Sire, I have two days to work out the details. Have your men meet me at The Laughing Cat Pub then. I’ll leave at dawn.

Chapter 2  The Birth of a Plan

Cynric barely stopped to rest on the ride back to Burham Castle. He apologized to Daisy and the other horse he brought along, Dagger. Sorry for the pace. It is important. When he arrived early the next day, he still did not have a plan, but he had a few ideas. He would have to contact Lady Margaret immediately. He hoped he could find this Sabrina quickly.

He arrived at the Laughing Cat before midmorning but thought it was probably too late to catch the girl before she left for the castle. Still, he had to try. There were not many people in the place at this hour. A man at the bar was rinsing out glasses and plates. An old couple sat in the corner, talking over their breakfast.

Cynric thought he might as well wait there for a while and ordered a drink, sausages, and bread. The food arrived and he ate as he contemplated his next move.

The door opened and a young girl of about sixteen entered. She had curly, light red hair and an abundance of freckles. Her eyes scanned the room, adjusting to the dark interior. She nodded at the bar man, but then she noticed Cynric and approached him.

You are Cynric.

I am. Cynric replied.

Lady Margaret said you would be here.

You must be Sabrina, he said as he relaxed. What word does she send?

She nodded and sat across from him. She says Sir Owen said to give you this. She produced a parchment scroll. He hopes it proves useful. You must proceed without him, and tonight. He is going with Rufus today on a hunt and they will be gone for two, maybe three days. He will do his best to keep Rufus distracted.

Cynric unrolled the parchment. It was a map of the castle. This could prove quite useful, he thought, if it were still accurate. He could tell that it was old, and that there had been modifications to the building since the map was created. He rolled it back up. Tell Lady Margaret to have Catherine ready by midnight. Come back to me this evening and I will tell you where she is to meet me.

I will be here just after dinnertime, she promised. I must go now, before I am missed. She hurried off.

Cynric unrolled the map again and studied it. The lower castle, like many of the sort, was a maze of corridors and storage rooms, stairways and cells, an auxiliary armory, and other rooms of unknown purpose. The upper levels were more logically arranged into kitchens, servants’ quarters, dining halls and living areas for the prince, his soldiers, and guests. Cynric made note of one stairwell that led from the level where Catherine dwelled and the kitchens. It was likely to be guarded, though. There was another corridor, possibly less used. He rolled the map up and tucked it in his shirt, popped the last of the bread in his mouth and left.

Cynric spent the afternoon wandering the town, casually strolling around the castle walls. He saw no obvious weaknesses in the defenses. According to the map, there should be a secret passage leading to the outer wall on the side of the castle that backed up to the forest. He hoped it was still there. The map could be wrong.

He walked the perimeter of the castle twice. There were guards in the tower, but he thought they had not noticed him. Other townspeople were about at this time of day. He dragged his hand along the wall casually, hoping to notice some difference. Then he saw it. It was down low, but he saw a door. Or what had once been a door. Many years’ worth of dirt, stones, grass, and weeds had accumulated in front of it, hiding all but the top few inches from view. He smiled, took out the map and made note of its location. He walked back through the town, then circled around to the forest by another route to scout out a good meeting place. Then he headed back to the pub to wait.

Sabrina arrived just as he was finishing his evening meal and sat across from him.  

I have a plan, he told her. He retrieved the map and pointed out a small room in the lower part of the castle. Do you think you can find this room? Sabrina nodded. Good. Have Margaret bring the Princess here at midnight. I will meet her there.

Sabrina looked at the map again, fixing the location in her mind. We will be there. She hurried back to the castle.

Within an hour, two men entered the pub and looked around. Cynric recognized them and smiled. They noticed him and came over to greet him.

Well, if it isn’t the new recruit.

Cynric invited them to sit. Best if we don’t attract too much attention, Cynric warned quietly. Good to see you, too, Rylan, Liam.

Rylan was a tall, rugged-looking fellow with long brown hair that tended to be in his face much of the time. It brushed his shoulders, and he did not bother to try to control it. He had a beard to match. He looked scrawny but Cynric had learned that Rylan was much stronger than he looked. He had the bruises to prove it. Liam was also tall, but muscular, and of lighter hair and complexion, and clean shaven. They were two of Elric’s men, and he had been training with them for several months up until departing on this mission with Owen.

The two men ordered drinks. Cynric explained what he had in mind. Meet us in the forest behind the castle shortly after midnight. If all goes to plan, you can head toward Richard’s territory, and I shall head back toward Elric with ... her.

They agreed. What about Owen?

He has already left with Rufus to go hunting. I saw them ride out late this morning. I didn’t get a chance to talk to him. It’s best he knows nothing of the plan. That way, if we are caught, there is nothing he can tell them, and he will not be implicated.

They nodded. They were prepared to fight if any of the guards should capture Cynric or the Princess, but with luck it would not come to that.

That door, you said it was nearly buried, Liam remarked. How do you intend to dig it out without someone noticing?

Cynric smiled. Leave that to me. I have a plan.

It was full dark, and an hour before midnight, when Cynric left the horses tied to a tree near the agreed upon meeting place in the forest. It is alright, Daisy. He placed a hand on her blaze of white. She was mostly a deep chestnut, except for this marking. He projected an image of home and hay and peace. She responded with a nuzzle to his neck. He smiled and circled back to the castle.

Cynric approached the wall where he had found the door. If guards were watching, he could not see them. He hoped that meant they could not see him, either. The moon was new and the night dark. He knelt near the wall and felt for the top of the door. It took a minute to find it, but there it was. He held his hand over the dirt, grass, and weeds and concentrated. For magic this simple, words were unnecessary, just the image of a clear path to the door. A moment later, the door lay before him, unobscured. He tried it. Of course, it was locked. He concentrated again. With a ‘click’ the door swung open. He entered and closed the door behind him. It was pitch dark. He was not certain but thought he should be in a corridor below the kitchen. He had brought a torch and with a thought he lit it. He looked at the map. The room he sought should be up the stairs and to the right. Proceeding slowly, listening for any sound of guards or anyone else, he heard only faint scurrying sounds.

Mice!

After a couple of dead ends and consulting the map again, he found the room. The three women huddled in one corner, three bags at their feet. They looked frightened when they saw his torch but relaxed when they recognized him. Lady Margaret approached him. We are ready, she announced.

Cynric looked puzzled. We? I will take Princess Catherine from here. You return to your room. Pretend you know nothing when they question you.

No. I am coming with you. I will not leave her. Lady Margaret was adamant.

Nor I, Sabrina added a bit timidly.

You, too? Cynric was confused. Why?

Sabrina looked frightened. I was questioned by one of the guards about my whereabouts this morning and this evening, when I should have been working, and why I had returned to the castle tonight. They will know I was involved. I will be executed for certain!

Cynric sighed. Alright. I’ve no time to argue anyway. Follow me. But I only have two horses!

We will double up, then, Margaret said practically. She picked up two of the bags. Let’s go.

He led them back through the corridors to the door he had found. He opened it and looked out. No one was there. He extinguished the torch and left it inside and motioned for the women to follow. They moved quickly and silently along the castle wall as close as they could until they reached the outskirts of the town. He led them down silent streets toward the forest. It took twenty minutes, but they reached the meeting spot. The horses were there. So were Liam and Rylan.

Change of plan, Cynric announced. Sabrina will go with Liam and Rylan. If they are followed and a woman is seen with them, the soldiers might think it is the princess and track them instead of us.

Sabrina protested but Margaret quickly agreed it was a sensible plan, so Rylan helped Sabrina on to his horse. Cynric turned to Margaret and Catherine. You will ride Dagger. Don’t worry, he’s much gentler than his name suggests. He helped them onto the horse.

He mounted his mare, and they picked their way carefully through the forest. It was dark but Cynric could see the path ahead and he projected it to Daisy. She walked confidently through the dense foliage. After a half mile or so, Liam, Rylan, and Sabrina parted ways with them and headed South. From here on out Cynric must be careful not to leave a trail. He did what he could to cover their tracks without the women noticing. A flurry of leaves settled silently, gently over the road as they passed.

An hour before dawn, they reached a road. Cynric decided to risk a faster pace for a while. By this route it would take two days to reach Deverell if they were lucky. It would not be long now before the women would be missed. He must put as much distance between them and Burham as possible. They rode on for an hour or so.

Cynric found water for the horses and let them drink. He considered trying to find a place to hide out and rest for a few hours but did not see a likely place. And Catherine was eager to continue toward Deverell.

It was soon full daylight and he decided they should leave the road for a while. They travelled across open meadows, through some lightly forested areas, crisscrossed a stream at several points to confuse any trackers, and finally headed into denser forest. The path was becoming steep. Near dusk he found a place where they could rest. Despite Catherine’s protest, she was clearly exhausted. And the horses needed rest. Daisy was