CAT APPEARED IN THE DOORWAY of the kitchen, looking a little frazzled. Alek smiled at her, and she gave a vague nod before her eyes settled on Gredel. 'Gredel! You're wanted.'

Gredel, Citaan's father, and brother, all paled visibly at the request. Rumal stood to hoist Gredel out of his seat. 'Go on, you can do this.'

The rest stood and walked the three men to the bedchamber, ushering Gredel along in front. When they arrived, everyone stood in the corridor, except for ...