Our Benedict has had an arm thrown around his shoulders in a way that looks congenial - and which is - but which is also absolutely holding him in place and preventing his flight. Byerly is not particularly strong, but he's certainly strong enough to hold Benedict in place.

"We hope you don't mind a meal that isn't home-cooked," By says cheerfully. "We're not dreadfully poor chefs, ourselves, but we promise that Owain down the road is far more skilled at bread-baking, and our local silent and nameless cheesemonger has the finest stock in the city."