“Morag.” Guenevere appeared in the doorway. She saw Arthur and paused, curtseyed.

Arthur turned to her and bowed, though Lila could see affection and something else gleaming in his eyes. Lila thought it looked like pain. But then Arthur smiled. “Jenny, what brings you here?”

“I was looking for Morag to bring Lila to my chambers to change into an appropriate gown for supper,” Guenevere said. Her gaze fell on Lila, who was still clutching Arthur’s hauberk.

“Actually, My Lady,” Emrys began, “we need Lady Lila to ride out with us.”

Guenevere’s brow furrowed. “You’re riding out?”

“Orkney has mobilized,” Arthur said.

“You’re taking Lila with you?”

“The others are errant,” Arthur said. “She’ll serve as my squire.”

“But Emrys -”

“Has other duties,” Arthur said.

Guenevere nodded. “Who will defend Camelot?”

Arthur swallowed hard. “Lancelot, of course.”

“Of course,” Lila murmured to herself. Emrys looked pained.

A page burst into the smithy. “My Liege – the banners of Orkney! They’re on the horizon!”