"Marcel needs to leave within the hour to reach Lothian City before dawn," Ashlynn said, hoping the Dunns would understand the urgency of making some decisions quickly. "And there are things I need to confirm with you before he goes. After that, we can talk through the rest of our plans at whatever pace you're comfortable with."
She looked at Marcel, who stood by the doorway with his silk-lined cloak draped over one arm and the easy, patient posture of a man who could wait all night but would prefer not to.
"Said simply, I need your help to avoid a bloody battle," Ashlynn said, turning back to the Dunns. "I need to put an end to Owain's rule, and I need to reach my sister before he can," she started to say, only for her voice to catch in her throat at the mention of her sister. "Before he can hurt her worse than he already has," she finished.
