Hild's heart sank at Krem's words, though she did not let the feeling show on her face. She wished Krem and Gannicus had spoken longer, had had more chance to say things that needed to be said. As it was, Gannicus might not know what he had to say to make this right. Hild would have to guide him, perhaps at the point of her seax.

"This isn't any other person," she said firmly. Surely Krem knew that. Surely he could see, or did his hurt blind him that much.

"This is not Thomas or Noah. This is not even the Iron Bull." Reaching forward, Hild covered Krem's hands, gripping the bottle, with her own. Lead them to the answer, a voice reminded her.