December 1282. Llywelyn ap Gruffudd has reached Buallt, but the welcome awaiting him remains uncertain.
From the unfinished ramparts of Builth Castle, John Giffard watches the Welsh prince and his household guard on the opposite bank of the Wye. His orders from Edward Longshanks are clear, although the English lord has his own understanding of honour and the obligations of hospitality.
Weeks earlier, at Rhuddlan Castle, Giffard had been summoned before the English king to account for the disastrous defeat at Menai. Their conversation reveals how Edward intends to bring an end to Llywelyn's resistance, and what he expects of the Marcher lords.
Meanwhile, Dulon ap Meurig accompanies the prince through the English-held town. The castle gates remain closed, soldiers watch from the walls, and even Gwion is beginning to question the reception that awaits them.
Castle Walls is Chapter Two of The Last Prince, a standalone historical novel by Elwyn Davies, set within Book of the Western Veil.
