"Steward Alard ain't 'ere, he'd be at Ridgley Manor." The man-at-arms guarding the door to Mellester Manor's great hall blocked access.

Charlotte clutched her head. "Nay, this can't be..."

"Best ye move along."

"When will he return?"

The guard remained silent.

"Please, it's important," she appealed.

He sighed. "On the morrow more'n likely."

"And Reeve Petrus, where is he, I need to speak with ...