Odo, self-consciously rode down the column of men and stopped in front of Sir Dain and Reeve Petrus. "Hail, Sir Dain," Odo greeted the knight formally and dipped his head in respect. He turned to the reeve with equal seriousness, "Hail, Reeve Petrus."

The reeve's initial anger had dissolved into amusement and he fought hard not to smile.

"Bring ye a message?" asked Sir Dain.

Odo's eyes flicked to the reeve.

"Sire, Odo wants to ride with us. He feels he ...