I rush down from the stand. Queen Audofleda frowns at me, but I am beginning to chafe under her icy control. I run to the field, jump the fence and throw myself in Thidrek's mail-coated arms. "You did it!"

He looks dazed. "Were you watching? Finally, I have honoured your teachings."

"I do not care about that," I say, kissing him. "I care that you fared much better than the other time!"

"It is not over yet," I say. "Keep watching over me..."

"I shall," I say solemnly.