Chapter 179

The Eyrie, the council chamber.

A septon of the Faith of the Seven who served the castle stood in the centre of the hall. From a soft cloth bag at his waist he drew the seven-pointed star, raised it high above his head, then pressed it firmly against the forehead of Nestor Royce, who knelt before him.

In a high, solemn voice that was almost a chant the septon called upon the gods to bear witness, to search out the truth within this man’s soul, and to restore him to freedom if he were innocent or to grant him death if he were guilty. The words echoed among the surrounding towers. When the last note had faded the septon withdrew the star and departed swiftly.