It was late when Thorburn slipped into the room. Teárlag had gone to bed an hour earlier and he hoped she was asleep already. Every time he saw her, he somehow felt guilty he could no longer love her, as if it was his fault she'd betrayed him. He removed his clothes in the dark and slipped into bed.

"Thorburn," she whispered, "is it safe to speak softly in here?"

Damn, she was awake. "As safe as it is anyplace I imagine," he responded.

"The map I gave you; is it well hidden?"

"Why do you ask?" Thorburn asked.

"My maid found it and attempted to copy it. She showed...