D'Abenne cheeks were flushed red as the first of his employees made their way downstairs. Though his hands were on his hips, the attempt to look stern was somewhat negated by the manner in which he was bouncing on the balls of his feet. He met Valerie's greeting with a livid stare, and scowled at Heinrich's mangled question.

"At your own expense, Herr Bischof, unless I get some answers." Marperic flicked a thumb at the stable door, inviting them to draw closer.

"I have two questions. Which of you had the last watch this morning - "

He pushed the stable door open. In the shade beyond, the central space was remarkably empty.

" - and where the hell is my coach?"