Later, when he came to the gallery of the Grand Staircase, he saw that he was just in time to witness Tara’s entourage gathering in the Central Hall. Having no desire to see her before she left—there had been enough trouble from that arena!—he quickly turned off into the North Wing. He would go by another stair. The sooner she was gone, the better.

  When at last he arrived for breakfast, he was greeted by Maelo, whose meal was just arriving. “Fair day my brother, it is good to see you! Wh...