"The skill was taught by Herne the man, though the gift was given by Herne the spirit." Robin shrugged. "I am Herne's son; had I... had I stayed, I would have become the Hunter myself." He grinned. "It has been a long time, though. I hope Ser Pounce and Uriel enjoy their new plaything. The trees will not mind."

He spoke with an energy he did not know he had been missing, and if his speech was disjointed, Robin was not aware of it. His mind was racing, his blood pumping; he felt wonderful.