Charlotte, excited about the plans, was up early and had Noor groomed saddled and ready before Odo woke. Cathal, Jagger, Odo and Charlotte departed Mellester as the sun rose and arrived in Ridgley Manor a few hours later. Even Cathal enjoyed the ride, his own horse showed surprising speed and endurance as Charlotte constantly urged them to ride quickly.

Odo was taken by her, his love for Charlotte was consuming and it took all his self-control to not ...