Lola led the way to the castle gates, where a gleaming golden chariot was drawn up in front, and on either side of it a dozen soldiers in black armour stood in a line.  The duchess, who was sitting in the carriage, with a veil of black lace over her face, gave me a slight nod when she saw me through the window.

I was lifted into the carriage by Lola, and Catherland sat across from me. She whispered to the footman standing by the carriage, "Let's go!"

"Where are we going?" The carriage moved slowly, with the clatter of hoofs on the floor. I glanced round the window as...