Squires of the knights of the inner circle of the Order kept curious hours, but Wulf was accustomed to them.  He had stayed awake an hour after the Ritter had retired, to make sure all was secure and preparations made for the morrow.  Then he had lain himself down to sleep till noon.  After he broke his fast, he made his rounds above and below ground, checking that all was well, and selected another maid to serve Sir Albrecht  ‘supper‘;  it did not do to have the same one two nights running, or they became weak and others began to whisper.    With all errands run,  he rode to Vistina and back, marking any points for concern along the route.  An hour’s weapon practice with the men-at-arms,  another meal and then another hour of rest before sundown so that he would be fresh and ready when their lord rose.<br/><br/>As the sun went down Wulf  made his way down to the hidden resting place of his master.   There would be no servants dallying about in the private chambers, he had made sure of that; any supplies wanted from the cellars had been fetched out hours ago,  and chores assigned to be sure all the household were busy elsewhere.  No-one would see Ritter Albrecht emerge from below.   The squire paused at the threshold of the secret room, respectfully bowing and greeting his lord.  ‘Good evening, sir.  I have the honour to report that all is well.  If it is acceptable, I have arranged for your supper to come to the main bedchamber above, and for the senior staff to attend you in the izba after you have dressed and fed.   Your meeting with Filipets and the merchant is set for the fourth hour of the night, which should leave ample time.  If you are ready to rise, my lord?’<br/>