You think I do not know that every night you poison the king?’ Without another word, Aromoth pushed past the astonished wizard and strode from the room.

As her father was so ill, Thralia was seated on the royal throne in his stead; her mind reeling at the decisions the council were pressing her to make. Each member saw Tregowen’s illness as a stepping stone to their own eminence. When he died, this girl would need an adviser to act for her and they all wanted the position. Melchion had held the reigns for too long; they were determined the princess should not fall under his influence.

So when the doors opened to admit Aromoth bearing a tale of treachery, they listened eagerly. `Your Highness,’ he said, `I have just found proof of what I have long suspected. Lord Melchion, my master… is a traitor.’

Melchion appeared in the doorway, shouting with rage. Grabbing Aromoth he shook him into silence. `What is this wretch saying? Does he tell you I plot against the king? Hah! Was it not I who saved him last night, Highness?’

The princess’s first reaction at Aromoth’s entrance had been relief – anything to break the endless wrangling. Now she felt bewilderment. “Your servant has said nothing of sense, Lord Melchion. Please, explain yourself.”

Aromoth bowed. `Forgive the intrusion your Highness. But I must warn you. The king is bewitched.’

`Lies!’

`A moment Melchion.’ One of the councillors moved forward and gestured Aromoth stand near him. `No doubt there is an explanation for this confusion, but I think it is our duty to hear the lad’s tale.’

Thralia nodded. `Very well.’

Aromoth said, `I beseech you all, do not be convinced by Melchion’s lies. He has the King bewitched and he realises I have found him out. I blame myself for not coming to you earlier but I was afraid. He is a powerful wizard and a cunning liar.’

`Does he say I poisoned the King?’ Melchion interrupted. `He prepares the draughts; I do not know if he tampers with them.’

Aromoth stepped back in surprise. `Poison? I do not know of poison, my lords. I know that Melchion bewitches the King and makes him say the things he wants to hear. But… is he poisoning him too? Is that what ails his Majesty now? What would the likes of me gain from the King’s death?’