It would take two days of hard riding to reach South Hamtun and Odo was determined to put as many miles as possible behind them on their first day. The group left Mellester beneath a bleak morning sky. A few villagers and children waved and wished them well on their journey, some even threw flowers. Odo was excited, his exuberance and enthusiasm spreading to everyone. It was an almost festive atmosphere as they departed Mellester Manor.

As before, when ...