They met in a tavern in Cantre'r Gwaelod's port.

As Ceridwyn entered the tavern she saw a most unusual sight: a table with scrolls and a opened bound book on it. The tall blonde studying one of the scrolls raised her head when Ceridwyn stopped behind her. Without turning, the blonde asked "Can you read Goídelc?"

"Aye, the Drui who raised me spoke only Goídelc," Ceridwyn responded. "And they did teach me to read." At that point, Ceridwyn noticed the open book was one of the rarest histories in her knowing.

"Sit and be welcome. I am Ryanne, a seeker of rare things. Would you like food or drink?"

After introducing herself, Ceridwyn accepted, signalling the tavern keeper that she'd like her usual.

After the meal, conversation and having the table cleared, a rough looking brunette sauntered into the tavern, up to Ryanne and said, "So you've found someone who can read it?"

"Alys, this is Banrion Ceridwyn and she is most assuredly able to read it."

Ryanne saw that Alys had a bruise on the side of her face and a cut lip.

"How many?" Ryanne asked with a sigh.

"Six."

"Any deaths?"

"Not a one. At least I don't think so. They were all moving if somewhat slowly when I left."

During the next hour, Ryanne outlined the object of her proposed search, both the difficulties in locating the item and the rewards of that work.

At the end of it, she asked, "Shall we try?"

Both of the others gave quick, decisive nods.

********

This is the opening page of a series of stories that constitute "The Eye of Caorthannach ".