Thomas drew Missy to a halt at Torht’s holding, noting with a pang that Nona’s horse was missing from the group tied out in front of Torht’s house. As he slid off the mare, Nectan and Domech exited the house, followed by Torht.
“We will leave right away. Our horses are ready,” Nectan stated, gesturing at the saddled mounts.
Torht thrust a small package at Thomas. “Some bread and cheese for you for your journey, young master.”
“Thank you,” he said, accepting the package. He opened his mouth to ask if he could check in on Odda, but the gimlet gleam in Nectan’s eye told him the king would deny the request, and he bit back the words.
But Torht must have discerned his question. “The boy still sleeps,” the Horsemaster said. “Lady Nona has left some herbs for Hilda to brew if he becomes di
