On the other hand, a galloping sound echoed from behind Alfonso, who had already ridden a distance away. He signaled for the carriage to stop, and a knight riding up handed him a wicker transport cage. “This is a gift from the Earl.”

Inside, a lively little creature cooed.

Alfonso smiled as he accepted the gift. “Please return and tell the Duke that I’ll take good care of it.”

He understood the implication of sending a pigeon; upon returning home, he planned to send one back, making communication easier between them.

After Alfonso departed, Simon’s knight friends also took their leave. Most had only received permission to come from their...