WHO IS THERE? a cranky voice barked from behind the door. Speak to me!

Emilie hunched inside her dark hood. The familiar testiness was like an old friend, and it made her smile. Have your wits become as dull as your jokes, Norbert? she called back.

Slowly the door to the jester's chamber cracked open. Norbert peeked out, his tunic open to his chest and his hair tousled and awry.

At first, he regarded the huddled shape suspiciously. Then, as she removed the hood, his eyes opened wide. Lady Emilie!

Norbert glanced down the corridor to make sure she was alone, then spread his arms and embraced her. It's a beautiful sight to see you.

Emilie squeezed him back. It's good to see you too, jester.

Norbert hurried her inside his room. He shut the door, then frowned. It's a beautiful sight, my lady, but not necessarily to see youhere. You've taken a great risk to come back. But tell me quick-you've been with Hugh?

Emilie brought him up to date. First, on the raid on Veille du P?re and the existence of the lance.The very staff you sent to Hugh. Then, of the incredible events that fo............