It was surrounded by a moat, with a curtain wall almost thirty feet high the entire way around. There was a drawbridge that began to rise as they drew closer, with a little village less than a mile away from the walls. Cyrus saw a stream of people in the village square, a hubbub of activity, as though they were evacuating, heading south in a cluster.

aDo they think weare going to attack their town?a Jaanda asked. aWeave been so nice to their countrymen.a The sun was high overhead, beating down upon them.

aThe smallfolk who are left unprotected in villages tend to bear the brunt of any war in Luukessia,a Longwell said. aThey likely believe we will act as every other invading force would and start by sacking the village.a aKeep our people clear of the village,a Cyrus said, measured neutrality in his tone. aIt seems to me those folks had nothing to do with their Baronas decision to commit suicide, so weall have no part in wrecking their lives.a He looked back at them. aPass the word. I donat expect wead need to worry about it with a seasoned Sanctuary army, but these people are new, some of them may be from armies where that was permissible and I want them to understanda"anyone sacking, looting, burning or raping will be killed and left to rot in this landa"that sort of behavior is simply not tolerated in Sanctuary.a aBut we can sack, loot, and burn the castle, right?a Terian looked around. aRight?a aThat depends on how the Baron responds to our arrival,a Cyrus said.

They followed the road outside the village. The cool mid-morning air still bore the chill of the pre-dawn even though the sun shone down on them now, casting shadows through the pines that were scattered along the path. The smell of the trees filled his nose, the sharp scent as present as the crunch of the needles under the hooves of their horses. The army marched behind Cyrus, and he looked up at the white stone curtain wall, shining in the sunlight, and saw heads peeking from behind the ramparts. The castle had towers at each corner, and across the battlements Cyrus saw spears poking up. To lay siege to this castle in a traditional way, Iad need siege towers, catapults a and lots of time. But I have no time to spare for bastards such as these.

Blocks were set a few feet apart, creating teeth on the battlements, parapets in a line for archers to fire down at approaching armies from behind cover. Cyrus watched them coldly, analytically, trying to decide how best to approach. The curtain wall was square and went all the way around, a thirty-foot ascent no matter which direction they approached from. Though he couldnat see it, he suspected that the Baronas chambers would be toward the back of the castle, past the courtyarda"a bailey, he had heard them calleda"and it would be a guess whether the prisoners would be kept in quarters there or in the dungeons.

aOne hour,a he said under his breath as he brought Windrider to a halt. aOne hour,a he said more loudly, to the officers behind him, and he heard the words passed back to the army on foot behind them.

A slight breeze stirred his hair under his helm. He looked up at the battlements, heard hushed voices from behind them. The drawbridge was up, a mighty wooden brace separating him from the walls by a moat filled with brown, grimy water. It stank from stagnation and the castleas waste. He saw slick walls next to holes in the edge of the battlements, and knew he wanted to go nowhere near the water nor the front gate, either.

aPass the word for Martaina and Aisling to come forward,a Cyrus said, and he heard the murmur of voices behind him. Martaina appeared at his side almost instantly, her horse edging past Longwellas to stand next to him. Aisling was slower to appear, taking her time, showing up almost a minute later, her traveling cloak hiding her features in the light shadow created by the cowl. aAh, good, there you are.a aYou summoned us, oh great and mighty General,a Aisling said, each word coming out as a curse. Her bustier was gone, and she was clad in the familiar leather armor that he had always known her to wear.

aShelve your issues with me until later,a Cyrus said. aWeave got people being held hostage in that castle. Do you have your bow?a He turned to look at Aisling, and she stared back, defiant, before reaching under her cloak and pulling out a bow with a fox carved near the grip. aGood.a He took a breath. aYouall need it, I suspect.a aHail,a came a voice from above them. Cyrus looked up to see Olivere staring down, his red hair and beard visible, leaking out of a cavalieras helm. aI have passed along your message to the baron and he has one for you in return.a Cyrus felt his jaw click into place, felt his teeth bear down. aLetas hear it, then.a aOh, no,a Olivere said, teeth bared in a broad grin. aYouall see it.a With a flourish, the envoy stepped aside and two guards joined him, lifting something under the edge of the battlement. aMake ready with your arrows, ladies,a Cyrus said, tense, waiting for what he suspected was coming. aIall need someone willing to take a swim if they do what I think theyare about to.a aIall go,a Ryin said. aI can use Falconas Essence toa"a aNo,a Cyrus cut him off. aI need someone to swim.a The three men behind the rampart came up again, this time with a struggling burden. It was a woman, a human in the garb of one of Sanctuaryas rangers. Her face was bruised and her clothing was in disarray, her leather armor missing, and her underclothes were ripped and tattered. She said nothing as the men lifted her and set her upon the ramparts, but she struggled, a spiteful look of hatred burning in her eyes as she glared at her captors.

aCalene Raverle,a Martaina said in a gasp at Cyrusas side. aShe looks like the hells have had at her.a aSomething has had at her, thatas for certain,a Terian said, his voice low and menacing. aAnd by something, I mean animals that donat deserve the mercy wead show a dying dog.a aYou had your warning,a Olivere said, aarmy of Sanctuary!a With a push from Olivere, Calene Raverle screamed and was loosed from the battlements. She fell almost ten feet before the noose around her neck caught her.

The crack of the rope reaching full extension caused Martaina to cry out, but Cyrus kept his eyes on Calene Raverle. He had seen her before, in the Realm of Death, he realized, had passed her by when they were teleporting out. He had seen her face among the other rangers throughout the journey, and he realized he didnat know a thing about hera"not even her name, until Martaina had said it. He stared at her now, though, looked at her face, her dead eyes, staring at him accusingly. Cyrus stared back.

aGet her down,a he said in a voice so low and guttural he didnat even recognize it as his own. An arrow flew from his left, from Aisling, and the rope broke, sending what had been Calene Raverle falling into the moat where her body landed with a splash, then floated to the surface. aSomeone go get her.a Martaina made to get off her horse and Cyrus held out a hand to stop her. aNot you. Keep your bow ready to fire.a He didnat watch for her nod.

Odellan stepped in front of him, shedding his armor piece by piece as he made his way to the edge of the filthy moat. The elf jumped in, causing Cyrus to grimace. aThat was my responsibility, I suppose,a he said, so low it was almost inaudible to his ears. He caught a worried look from Martaina on one side and an almost imperceptible nod from Aisling on the other.

Odellan grasped the body and swam back to the edge of the moat, where he was helped out of the water by Longwell and Scuddar Inashara, a Sanctuary warrior from the Inculta Desert. Cyrus watched as Odellan handed the body up first, with care and reverence, as others stepped forward to handle it.

aCuratio,a Cyrus said, low enough that he knew that those watching on the battlements above them couldnat hear it, atake her to the back before you do it. Then join me up here again. We go in ten minutes.a aAye,a he heard Curatio say.

aAdmirable, what youave done for your comrade. You have one hour,a Olivere said from above them, aand then we will execute the rest of your people. One hour to begin your journey home, or all of your people will come to a sudden, tumbling end, just as that one did.a Cyrus looked up at Olivere, but could only see the shadow of the manas face. aI can tell you truly treated her well as a prisoner, and I assume youave extended the same courtesies to the rest of our people that youave taken.a He heard a laugh from behind the parapet, and Olivereas voice was tinged in humor. aYou come at the head of an army into a foreign land, bringing the threat of sword and fire to our holdings, but you expect great civility in the treatment of those captured in the course of your transgressions?a Olivere let out a humorless bellow. aYou presume too much, foreigner. Count yourself lucky we havenat executed all of your people yeta"though that hour is drawing nearer.a aI expected civil treatment because while I have come at the head of an army,a Cyrus said, ayou have yet to seen our asword and fire.aa He gave Olivere a grim smile, one he was certain the envoy could not see at the distance they were apart. aBut soon, I think, you will.a aBold threats,a Olivere said. aPerhaps I should tell the baron youave refused his offer and to just send me the other prisoners now?a aThe remaining prisoners are your only hope for mercy at this point.a Cyrusas hand lingered on the hilt of Praelior. aKill them if you must, but remember my words, Olivere. You are trifling with the wrong people.a aYou have one hour. Start marching.a Olivere disappeared behind the battlements, leaving Cyrus staring up at the castle walls, a cold, seeping fury blanketing him, making him immune to the warm rays of the sun.

aPlan?a Aisling said from his left.

aKill every last one of them and let Mortus sort them out,a Terian said. aOh, wait, we killed Mortus a few weeks ago, didnat we? All right then, kill them all and let them remain unsorted.a aThe following people will come with me,a Cyrus said. aMendicant, Jaanda, Ryin, Terian, Longwell, Curatio, Nyad, Martaina, Aisling and aa he looked around and caught sight of a familiar robed figure toward the front of the army, aScuddar Inashara. Odellan will remain here in charge of the army and continue to watch them.a aAnd youall be a?a Odellan asked, pure curiosity on his face.

Cyrus let a bitter smile seep out. aTaking an afternoon run.a

Chapter 10.

Curatio rejoined them minutes later, and Cyrus gave a subtle nod to Ryin, who began an incantation under his breath. Cyrus had explained the details to those he had selected once Curatio returned from the back of the army. Cyrus felt a gentle wind rush over him and he looked to the healer. aIs she a?a aSheall be fine,a Curatio said brusquely. aPhysically, at least.a aI had hoped that the resurrection spell would allow her to forget what happened.a Cyrus stared at the castle walls. aI take it that a?a aNo such luck.a Curatio reached into his robes, keeping his face impassive, and his hand emerged with a small but wicked looking mace. He pressed a button on the handle and half-inch spikes popped out along a horizontal line on the ball of the mace.

aDonat you worry about that button getting pressed accidentally in your robe?a Cyrus said, looking at the weapon, eyes wide.

Curatio stared at it and cocked his head, indifferent. aIt has happened, once or twice.a aAnd?a Curatio shrugged. aIam a healer. Itas a rather simple fix.a aAh.a Cyrus turned his attention back to the castle. aAll ready?a He heard words of affirmation behind him, the subtle agreement of those going with him. aMendicant, Nyad, Jaanda and Ryin, follow directly behind me, Aisling, Martaina, Longwell, Terian, and Scuddar, youare up front. Curatioa"a aIall be up front, too,a the healer said, and rolled his wrist in a circle, spinning the mace around by a leather strap, making it blur as though he were about to throw it like a hammer.

aYouare the only healer weare taking with us,a Cyrus said.

aThen you should probably watch my back,a the elf said without emotion, aand I promise theyall not strike me down from in front.a Cyrus shifted his gaze to Scuddar, Longwell, and Terian in turn, his eyes carrying a warning. Protect him. He received nods in return from all but Terian, who was paying him no mind.

aLetas get this carnival of slaughter underway,a Terian said, placing his helm on his head. It bore spikes like devil horns, curving six inches into the air. When coupled with his spiked pauldrons and darkened steel armor, it gave him a demonic appearance. Cyrus saw the gleam of red in his sword and shook his heada"truly, the dark knight lives up to his title. He darted forward, causing Cyrus to gesture to the others to move as he ran after Terian.

Cyrus felt his feet leave the ground, as the subtle pressure of the earth against his metal boots lifted away with his next step. He continued to run, the wind of his motion stirring his beard and hair, and he looked upward as he felt himself rise with each step. He kept the battlements in his sight, saw the faces peeking from behind the parapets, mouths open in shock at the sight of a war partya"his war partya"charging at them while running on air.

Martaina and Aisling had their bows unslung and were firing as they ran. Cyrus saw arrows striking some of those who were leaning out of cover, heard them scream as the arrows struck home and he watched as one of them staggered and fell into the murky, disgusting moat below. Another screamed and came out from behind cover in time to catch another arrow, this one through the chest, sending him to his knees. Most of the castleas defenders werenat even wearing armor. Arrogance. That will cost them.

They crested the wall and Cyrus lunged over a battlement, Praelior in hand, driving his sword into a soldier who was waiting for him on the other side. The man had shouted in alarm and begun to run away as Cyrus punched his blade into the manas lower back. Cyrus saw him jerk, tensing at the pain before going limp. There were roughly ten defenders left along the battlement, and most were so awestruck at the sight of invaders coming over their seemingly impregnable walls that all but three were running to staircases that led down into the bailey, the courtyard below the wall.

Cyrus looked down as he swept Praelior across the chest of one of the castleas guards who had chosen to fight. The man fell to the courtyard below. The bailey was an open area with a few carts filled with hay and other goods and stables off to the left, which gave the air an aroma of horses. Twenty or more knights were in the courtyard below, and a battle cry went up from their number. They had been standing in formation, their armor covered with the same blue surcoats that Olivere had worn to treat with Cyrus.

aNyad, Mendicant,a Cyrus said, and pointed Praelior at the knights below. He heard the murmur of the wizards casting spells behind him as he watched the knights spring into motion, their helms covering their heads save for slits for eyes and holes punched to breathe. They had split into two parties, one storming each staircase when the spells strucka"flames encircled them in a solid wall and then they rose within the wall as well. A blaze taller than a man seemed to grow out of the ground itself, swirling around the knights, drawing shouts from them at first, of alarm, then of pain that degenerated into shrieks and cries. Cyrus watched as the figures within the fire seemed to melt away, falling to the ground in a slick motion, like water poured out of a cup. A horrendous smell of charred, burnt flesh wafted over the courtyard as Cyrus and his party stared down into the burnt remnants.

aWeare clear to the living quarters,a Martaina said, her bow still nocked and pulled up to fire.

A few pitiful moans made their way to Cyrusas ears; the last surviving defenders who had run from the battlements had arrows protruding from them and were scattered between the walls and the stairwell. Cyrus looked to his right, where Martaina stood, then to his left, where Aisling had already slung her bow on her back. He caught sight of two of her victims, moaning, saw the fletchings of the arrows protruding from the soldiersa groins, and winced. He looked at Aisling, who shrugged. aFor Calene,a she said simply.

aKeep a close formation.a Cyrus stepped over the edge of the wall and drifted down into the courtyard. aIam sure there are more of them inside the living quarters. Swords up front, spellcasters behind.a He caught a look from Curatio that was pure heat. aExcept you, warrior priest. Go ahead and dispel the Falconas Essence, Ryin.a Cyrus felt the wind beneath him dissipate and the clunk of his metal boots hitting the ground echoed through the bailey. aJaanda, you know what to do.a aI always know what to do,a the dark elf said. aFor funerals, you send flowers, for a dinner date, you bring wine, and for those times when your significant other has been putting on weight, you say nothing at all.a aVery suave,a Terian said. aWhat do you do when youare in a foreign land and an army of thugs has kidnapped members of your guild and is holding them hostage?a aAh,a Jaanda said with a light smile, aI have the perfect answer for that as well.a They made their way across the stone courtyard, the yellow blocks reminding Cyrus of grains of seasoned rice as the midday sun cast shadows under the ramparts. The living quarters were at the opposite end of the drawbridge. Scuddar was operating the mechanism to open the bridge while Cyrus and the others made their way toward the wooden doors. aBarred?a Cyrus asked as he approached.

aYou taking bets?a Terian was beside him. aBecause Iad guess yeah. You think theyare oblivious to all this commotion?a aThus far,a Cyrus said, aintelligence hasnat been their strong suit.a When he reached the door he leaned back, Praelior in hand, and felt the strength of the sword surge through him. With a mighty kick he splintered the doors, breaking them from their hinges and sending them twisting inward, falling to the ground with a thunderous clatter. A throne room lay before Cyrus, small of scale, with eight ranks of soldiers, twenty across, shoulder-to-shoulder, standing in his way. These were wearing plate mail, he noticed, as he stared at them, unimpressed.

aIam here for Baron Hoygraf,a Cyrus said, and pointed his sword at the unmoving statues, their armor giving them the appearance of being posed. aAnyone who doesnat want to experience unspeakable pain, move out of my way.a The soldiers remained, their steel armor locked in place, their spears lowered, shields side by side in an impenetrable wall. Cyrus let out an annoyed sigh. aPerhaps youare laboring under the impression Iam going to charge you down. Iam not. Although if I did, I assure you that your spears and shields are of no concern to me. Are any of you going to surrender? We breached your castle in minutes and have killed every one of the guards youave sent at us thus far. Does that not frighten you? Do you not feel a twinge of uncertainty that such an impossible thing could happen?a He watched them, looking for some sign of emotion, but their helms concealed any thoughts they might have had. aVery well then. Just remember, you chose unspeakable pain, not me.a A strange twinkling of light filled the room. aJaanda?a Cyrus asked. aYou gonna be okay?a aThere are rather a lot of them,a the enchanter said, his voice strained. aYouall excuse me if I donat talk; Iad like to get this over with.a aThatas what she said.a Terianas voice was low but amused and Cyrus caught a glint of humor from the dark knight when he said it. aAnd by she, I mean Nyad.a aOh, yes, I see, very funny,a Nyad said from behind them. aBecause Iam a woman who enjoys sexual relations, I must be a horrible, disgusting person. Youare just jealous, you syphilitic, whore-mongering nightmare.a The lights cascaded in front of the soldiers, and Cyrus saw reflections of eyes inside their helmets, watched the first few of them slacken, the points of their spears drifting downward. aWhat is that?a he heard one of the soldiers in the back ask, but no one answered.

Then the front rank of the soldiers dropped their shields as one with a great clatter that rang through the hall. They turned in a single motion, raised their spears, and thrust them forward. Cyrus watched as they hit home, in the joints of armor, through gorgets and into necks, and there was shouting as the first three rows of the formation turned on the next, and a melee commenced as the soldiers of Green Hill tried their best to kill one another. Cyrus saw one of the armored soldiers slip a sword under the breastplate of another, watched two others decapitate a third, and he felt a slight smile creep across his face.

aTheyall do this until theyare dead,a Jaanda said, and Cyrus looked back to find the enchanter with his eyes closed. aI only needed less than half under my direct controla"the others I simply made blind to our presence.a aCan you maintain this?a Cyrus asked.

aAt least until theyare all dead, yes,a Jaanda replied, a hint of a smile on his lips. aGo forth and give my regards to the Baron when you meet him.a aIam gonna stick a sword up his ass,a Terian said. aIs that what you mean by regards?a aGood enough,a Jaanda said. aNow, if youall excuse me aa Cyrus led the way, skirting the side of the battle, angling toward a hallway to the left of the red velvet padded wooden thrones that sat in the middle of the hall on a raised dais. He walked down the long, grey hallway, motioning to the rooms on either side and letting Terian and Longwell kick open the doors. He heard the screams of women, the cries of children, and then heard the doors shut and the footsteps of Terian and Longwell beside him again moments later. Smells like fear.

He reached another commanding set of double wooden doors, with candles lit on either side of the hallway to offset the darkness that had crept in after he left the main hall. There were no windows and the hall came to an end up ahead. Cyrus turned at the door, pushed on it, and found it barred. aThis is it,a he said. aHoygraf lives until we have a conversation.a Cyrus saw Scuddar push past Nyad and Ryin to join them. aScuddar, I take it the army is in the castle?a The desert man nodded. aAre they seeing to the dungeons, then?a Another nod from Scuddar, who wore robes that stretched from his face to his feet, an odd bit of attire for one who uses a sword, but then Scuddar is something of a rarity. aAll right.a With another thunderous kick, Cyrus broke down the doors in front of him and let Martaina and Aisling sweep past, their bows already firing. Arrows caught two sentries unprepared; Martainaas landed in the neck of her foe, Aislingas once more in the groin. Other guards were arrayed around the room and began to move to engage the Sanctuary force. Cyrus swept two of them aside with a strike that broke their swords neatly in half. Scuddar, Longwell and Curatio took down enemies of their own, and Cyrus saw a bolt of lightning streak through the air and wrap around three guards surrounding another man who huddled at the back of the room.

The one who wasnat hit by the lightning was clearly standing apart from the others. He wore a red cloak with a fur collar, and his clothing was more sophisticated than most of what Cyrus had seen in Termina or even Pharesia. His hair was black, his face was pale, pale white and his beard was scraggly and black. When he came up from his knees after watching his men downed by Ryinas lightning spell, there was visible anger etched on his face and a fury in his pale blue eyes.

aHalt!a The man called out, his voice carrying no sign of strain and in a tone that led Cyrus to believe he had never once been disobeyeda"at least not without the perpetrator going unscathed.

Cyrus reached out and cut down one of the guards that had halted at the manas command, then another, and another. aOh, Iam sorry,a he said, when the man turned his furious eyes on Cyrus, aI didnat listen when you told me to turn back, Baron Hoygraf. I didnat listen when you said youad kill my people. Do you really expect me to stop now?a Cyrus thrust Praelior through the last of the standing guards, sliding the blade through the guardas chest and the breastplate he wore as though it werenat even there.

aBut in fairness,a Cyrus said, advancing on Hoygraf, who backed into a wooden hutch, causing the contents inside to clatter like glass, ayou didnat listen to me either. I told you that I would destroy your keep, kill all your men, and give you a painful end if you didnat return my people, and now here we are, and Iave nearly kept my word.a There was a bustle behind him and Cyrus turned to see two of his army shoving their way into the room, dragging a haggard figure along with them. aOh, good, my old friend Olivere.a Cyrus looked at the Sanctuary warriors. aI take it you cleared the dungeons and turned loose our compatriots?a One of the warriors nodded, his crooked front teeth bared in a smile. aWere they similarly harmed like Calene?a The smile of the Sanctuary warrior disappeared, replaced with a scowl that made the crooked front teeth look much more intimidating.

aSee, you shouldnat have done that.a Cyrus turned back to Hoygraf. aTerian? Would you kindly make Olivere aware of the gravity of his liegeas mistakes?a aWith utmost pleasure,a Terian said, and Cyrus could hear the grin in the dark knightas words without turning to look at him. A moment later, Olivere screamed, even though Terian hadnat taken so much as a step toward the man. A smell emanated around them, of pestilence and illness, the rancid stench of boils opening to the air. The scream continued, growing in pitch, and Cyrus watched the hard lines on Hoygrafas face dissolve, his eyes going from narrow to wide as he watched Terianas spell take effect on his envoy. Hoygrafas jaw dropped, and the Baron let out a little exhalation of horror.

aOh, Baron,a Cyrus said. aYou tortured and beat our people, had your soldiers do unspeakable things, but a little spell makes you wilt like a flower on the hottest day of summer?a The stench worsened as Cyrus circled Hoygraf, and watched the Baron turn away. Cyrus looked to Olivere, who was now covered in burst, bleeding pustules and writhing on the ground. aThatas right, I forgot. You donat have spellcasters in Luukessia. But we came from over the bridge, so you had to know it was a possibility that you were up against something of this sort.a aIllusions and trickery.a Little flecks of spittle came from Hoygrafas lips when he made his reply. aYour sort is the worst of demons and devils, the curses of all manner of evil that comes from your side of the bridge. You donat belong over here, in this blessed land of our ancestors, you filth.a Cyrus felt his hand drift forward, the tip of his sword pressing into the throat of the Baron. aFilth? You call us filth yet you had no issue with brutalizing our women rangers when you captured them.a aWomen need to know their place, and if they wish to stand in the line of battle next to the men, then they should know the injury ofa"a aDear gods, just shut up,a Cyrus said, pressing Praelioras tip into the Baronas neck, causing blood to run down his throat in a thick line. aYou disgusting, wicked pile of shite, youare lucky I donat give you similar injury to theirs with my sword.a aYou unnatural beasts,a Hoygraf said. aKing Milos Tiernan marches this way as we speaka"a aAnd when he gets here, heall find us gone,a Cyrus said. aIf heas lucky, he wonat meet us in battle, because I thinka"and you might agree with mea"my army is going to be too much for him to handle. We have wizards, druids, healers and enchanters, and every last one of them will be turned loose to wreak havoc. All we want is to pass through your lands, and every day you asses make me waste here is another day Iam going to make your lives miserable. Your best bet is to let us go on, so we can stop making your lives miserable and start doing the same to Briyce Unger, who Iam told is no friend of yours.a aHe is not,a Hoygraf spat. aBut do not think you will be allowed to simply walk through our territory uncontesteda"a Cyrus pulled his sword from Hoygrafas neck and stabbed it into the Baronas stomach, burying it in his guts. Hoygraf screamed, grunted, and moaned, falling to his knees. Cyrus took care to keep the sword steady as the Baron fell, not letting the blade move. aLet me make this clear to you. You are impotent against us. Your army, even if it numbers ten thousand, will fall before our magical wickedness like wheat falls to the reaper. Your threats against us possess all the efficacy of a castrated bull trying to mate and none of the grace. And speaking of castrated aa Cyrus let his eyes fall down, drawing a look of panic from the Baron. aKidding. Thatas too easy for you.a Cyrus looked back to Terian, who had Olivere by the collar. The envoyas eyes bulged from his head and he was still. aI think heas dead, Terian. You can drop him now.a aOh?a Terian looked down, let Olivere drop to the floor, then turned back to Hoygraf. aThen this is the last of their kind left alive in the castle. How shall we finish him?a aWe donat.a Cyrus motioned toward the door, and he heard the others begin to move toward it. Cyrus stood and let the blade of his sword slip from the Baronas abdomen. aIave heard a stomach wound is the most painful way a man can die. I took care to make sure I didnat go too close to the bottom or the top, just right in the middle.a He craned his neck to look down at Hoygraf. aI think I got it about right. Itall probably take you a few days to die from that, and itas not going to be much fun while youare doing it.

aSo weare just going to leave you here,a Cyrus said, backing away from Hoygraf. aI think youall have enough time to communicate to your King what Iave said to you, but just in case, Iall have Longwell leave a note.a He nodded at Longwell, who blinked and began to look around for parchment. aIad give you a long sermon about how raping is wrong and how attacking strangers who have done you no harm is unkind, but frankly,a Cyrus said with a sneer, ayouall be dead, so I think the lesson will be irrelevant to you. Besides, your impregnable castle has been breached and all your soldiers have been killed. Weall be escorting your women and children to the town down the hill where they can wait for your army before we burn this place to the ground. I think that everyone who could benefit from the lesson will have learned it.a He nodded. aBest of luck, Hoygraf.a He met the Baronas wide, pained eyes. aEnjoy your slow, agonizing death.a Cyrus stood and turned to find that all but Terian and Longwell had left the chamber. He looked to Longwell first. aWrite something that reflects my threat that if they interfere with our crossing, weall burn every holdfast between here and Galbadien. If they leave us be, weall be out of their lands in a month or soa"and their villages will be all the richer for our passing.a Longwell nodded. aIall try and be diplomatic about it, but Iall come up with something in that vein.a aDiplomatic?a Cyrus raised an eyebrow at him. aIave left the Baron gutted in his own castle. The moment for diplomacy has passed. Make it a threat, make it obvious, and let the King know that the consequences for failing to follow my directive will be the absolute destruction of his entire Kingdom. I will leave a swath of scorched earth ten miles wide as I exit this land, and if Milos Tiernan wants that on his head, so be it.a Cyrus turned and started for the door, but Terian caught his eye, causing him to stop.

The dark knight watched Cyrus with a very subtle smile. aEvery time I think Iave got the measure of you, Davidon, you surprise me. Alaric would have just executed this Baron and been done with it, if no other suitable justice was to be found. A slow, painful death?a Terianas smile faded. aI would have thought you a beyond that.a aLet the gravity of the crime be reflected in the punishment,a Cyrus said. aIf there is no justice in this land for him to answer to, let him answer to the natural laws of his own mortality.a aI see,a Terian said, and his smile vanished. aAn excellent point about letting the crime be reflected in the punishment. An excellent point, indeed.a

Chapter 11.

aThey have a full complement of spices,a Martaina said, coming from the kitchen of castle Green Hill, a large sack slung across her back. aWe can take enough food from here to feed us for a few days.a Cyrus sat at the head of the table in the dining room, a plate of food in front of him, the aroma of succulent mutton chop and fresh vegetables wafting up at him as he took a bite of the lamb. He could hear his soldiers eating in the throne room, where trestle tables had been set out. Others were in the courtyard, while still others he had entrusted with the task of sorting out whether anything in the castle was worth taking.

aThey have wine as well,a Jaanda said, entering the dining room behind her, a goblet in hand. aItas not quite like the vintages of the Riverlands, but itas far from atrocious.a The dark elf made his way over to a padded chair and sat down, leaning his head back. aIs there any chance we could stay here for the night? I would love to take advantage of having a bed to sleep in for the first time in weeks.a aYou and everyone else, I daresay.a Curatio held a goblet in front of him as well, a sparkling silver one that he took a deep, delicate sip from before replacing it on the flawless white tablecloth.

aSo are you going to turn loose the army on the castle?a Aisling stared at Cyrus from where she leaned against the doorjamb leading into the hallway to the kitchens. aLet them have a little plunder for their troubles here?a Cyrus picked up the napkin that sat at his right side and dabbed his face with it in an exaggerated show of politeness that caused Terian to roll his eyes and Jaanda to guffaw. aI donat think so,a he said with a shake of the head. aLetting them run loose through this place, tearing it to pieces? Sounds like a recipe for losing discipline. Not to mention the fights itad likely start over who gets what loot. No, weall take what foods we can carry, the spices, and weall go through the weapons to see if thereas anything that would be worth parceling out to the army, since,a he coughed, athere isnat anyone left alive to fight here. Any other objects aa He shrugged. aI donat want to feel like weare looting, but I suppose this isnat that different from any other expeditions weave mounted, save for the fact that here our foes are human.a aDamned right,a Terian said with a snarl. aIf this was a castle of dark elves you wouldnat think twice about dividing up the spoils from them, so why wouldnat we add the assets from ransacking this place to the guild bank? Thereas likely some jewels or something, isnat there?a He looked to Longwell, who seemed to be lost in his own thoughts.

aHm?a The dragoon looked up when the others in the room turned their attention to him. aOh, yes. A Baron of his station would likely have a number of precious stones, gold and silver, and I daresay that within the armory you could find more than a few swords and axes that would be better than some of the things Iave seen our warriors toting about. Luukessian steel isnat mystical since we donat possess magic, but itas of good enough quality. And there are certainly a few mystical weapons that have made their way to our shores,a his hand grasped the hilt of his lance, athough not many.a aIs it considered acceptable to plunder your conquests in Luukessia?a This from Jaanda, who held his goblet up to his nose and took a deep inhalation of his wine before sipping again.

aOh, yes,a Longwell said. aConquest is much more brutal here than in Arkaria, you might have noticed. Looting and pillaging is perfectly normal when you conquer, much like we saw from the dark elves in Termina. Also, without weapons and armor that can add strength or the ability to use magic, many women are treated like chattel and considered part of the spoils of war.a He looked around the table and saw the looks on the faces of Nyad and Martaina. aNot that I endorse such thinking myself, but you heard the Barona"and he is not alone in his way of thought.a aPardon me?a Martaina looked at the dragoon in askance.

aWell, women are forbidden to own property,a Longwell said. aThey are considered to be subject to the rules of their husbands, subject to their whims.a aSo, what?a Aislingas purple eyes flashed in anger. aIam supposed to kowtow to some man because he thinks heas stronger than me? That Iam good for cooking meals, relieving his tensions in the night, making plump babies, and nothing else?a Terian eyed her up and down. aYouare pretty thin; I doubt you could make a very plump baby with those hips.a Her hand moved fast, fast enough that Cyrus barely saw it. The dagger was out and thrown before Cyrus could shout a warning. Terian dodged it, barely, and it embedded in the stuffed padding in the back of Terianas chair. He clucked softly at her and smiled. aIam keeping the dagger.a aAs what? A memento of the only occasion when a woman paid you attention without gold filling her purse in exchange?a She smiled sweetly at him but it was all fake, and Cyrus could see the venom beneath. aIave got better ones; ones I save for people I actually mean to kill.a Far in the distance, Cyrus could hear very low whimpers from Baron Hoygraf, alone in his quarters on the floor above. aI doubt weall change the male-dominated hierarchy of Luukessia today, so letas shelve this discussion.a aI suppose youare okay with it if we get to this land his father rules,a Aisling pointed at Longwell, aand he tells us women to sit in the back line of battle, or worse, in the prep tent.a aI presume your father wonat tell me how to run my army?a Cyrus looked at Longwell, who nodded confirmation. aBesides, if Iam not much mistaken, the attitude in this land is not wildly different than what Iave heard about life in Saekaj Sovar.a He stared hard at Aisling, and she looked away. aSince itas considered the norm, I want officers and our veterans to go over the castle, top to bottom, and decide if there are things beyond food we should take with us as spoils. Half of the value will go to the guild bank for the effort expended to take the castle. Weall burn everything else.a aHalf of the haul will be a small fortune with a holdfast as rich as this one,a Longwell said, approving. aWhatas to be done with the other half?a aI want it given to the two women whom the Baron captured and a well,a Cyrus said, lowering his voice. aWe canat undo what was done, but perhaps if theyave joined Sanctuary for adventure and thought the better of it, they can take the recompense and it will at least give them some options where they might not have had any before.a aThat will likely be enough to allow them to live a fairly well-off life,a Longwell said. aUnless I miss my guess on the size of the Baronas treasure hoard.a aGood.a Cyrus took the last bite of mutton then slid his chair back from the table. aWork through the night if you have to, but I want it all set to travel tomorrow morning. Take the animals out of the stables and give every one of our people that was captured their own horses.a He stopped in thought. aI hadnat wanted to bother with wagons while we were traveling down the beach to the bridge, but now that weare in Luukessia, I expect we could take some wagons with us, yes?a He looked at Longwell, who nodded. aGood, thatall spare us having to send one of our wizards or druids back to Sanctuary with the spoils, and we may yet have a need for some of those items to trade later in our journey.a He looked at the faces around him. aAnything else?a No one said anything, but there were a few shrugs. Cyrus smiled. aThen Iam going to go steal a few hours sleep in the Baronas bed.a Jaanda threw a wadded-up napkin at Cyrus.

aWhat? Youare not the only one that longs for a soft bed, my friend.a aHmph,a the enchanter said, teasing. aPerhaps Iall join you later.a aHah,a Cyrus said. aJust donat wake me, whatever you do.a He left and turned to go down the hallway. aIf someone wants to drag the Baron down to his own dungeons, I wouldnat complain.a aHe probably would, though,a Longwell said. aI think I can hear him complaining now.a aComplaining, whining, dyinga"when itas a raping, murdering, bastard doing it, who cares which it really is?a Martaina asked.

Cyrus felt his feet clank against the stone as he walked down a hallway that led to the Baronas quarters. The torches burned, giving it a smoky aroma that filled his nose. There was a soft whisper of leather on stone behind him, causing him to hesitate. aIf youave come to proposition me, even if I were amenable, Iam far too tired for that tonight.a Aisling walked past him, her shoulder bumping gently against his armor. aYou didnat speak up against their treatment of women in this land.a aI gutted the Baron who captured our people and raped our women,a he said, staring at her as she turned to stand opposite him, only a few feet from his face. aI gave away half the guildas spoils so we could try and give the women a fresh start if they decided they wanted to leave behind this adventuring life. I donat know what else you want me to do.a aItas not only about what you do,a she said in a low whisper, asometimes itas about what you saya"or donat say.a Cyrus let out a deep sigh. aIam in love with a woman who wields a sword better than any man Iave ever met save one, a woman who wears heavier armor than I do, who can beat the ass off almost any man sheas ever crossed swords with. Do you really think I have a problem with women being the equal of men in any capacity?a aPerhaps youare just a glutton for pain,a she said acidly. aBut if you feel that way, why didnat you condemn it when Longwell told us how it was over here?a aBecause I was too busy listening to Longwell condemn it while he tried to backpedal away from his societyas embracing of male superiority,a Cyrus said, leaning against the wall to his left, resting his glove against it. aI just assumed that we who are here from Sanctuary, where we have a few women officers who help run our guild, would all know that I feel that way.a He paused and glared back at her. aWhere is this coming from? Me? Or how things are back in Saekaj?a aMaybe both,a she said, arms crossed. aYou canat tell me itas the same for humans, either. How many women are taken into the Society of Arms compared to men?a aFewer,a Cyrus said, resting his weight on the wall.

aHalf as many, Iave heard, just in the first trial,a Aisling snapped. aBecause the orphan girls who are slight of body are taken to the Wanderersa Brotherhood and trained as rangers rather than thrown into the Societyas Blood Families.a aWhich is good for them,a Cyrus said, abecause it gets brutal there.a Aislingas eyes narrowed at him. aAre you saying girls canat handle a fight like that?a Cyrus didnat back off. aIave seen many that could. But most were eliminated, yes.a Aislingas face broke into a frozen smile, distorted, without any sense of mirth to accompany it. aPretty little things.a aYes,a Cyrus said. aAnd they were weeded out by the first trial and sent to be scullery maids or serving girls because it was deemed that if they should continue in the Society or the Brotherhood theyad be nothing more than pretty broken things.a aSo whatas the difference between that and here?a Her voice was cool, and her eyes held a hint of disgust. aYou canat tell me some of those scullery maids, in the houses they worked in, got any better treatment than our female warriors and rangers at the hands of the Baronas men.a aNo, but I also canat do anything about them, either,a he said, annoyance rising. aIam not in charge of Reikonos or the Society of Arms or anything, really, save for Sanctuaryas army here in Luukessia and my own self. So if you really think Iam tacitly endorsing their treatment of women, or anything elsea"pigs and chickens or crops and fields, for example, Iam not. Iam trying to do the best I can to do right by my people. Thatas it. Radical societal transformations will have to wait for someone both more visionary and less likely to strike down someone who pisses him off with a sword.a aThey might need the sword and the will to use it if theyare going to radically transform a society in the way youave described.a aWhy are you here?a He leaned in closer to her. aIs this because you think Iall change my mind and give in to your advances if you argue with me more? Becausea"a aDonat insult me by suggesting Iam only here because of some unquenchable desire of my loins to have you,a she said, her voice hot with her temper. aIave made clear my interest and youave made clear your lack of. Thatas fine. Iam giving you my opinion, thatas all.a She didnat smile.

aDuly noted. But youave never been much of one for formalities or arguing, so forgive me,a he said, afor suspecting ill intentions. I didnat mean to insult you by suggestinga"a aYes, you did.a She slipped back a step, but it was so subtle he almost didnat notice, so perfect was her balance and movement. aBut thatas all right.a Her smile was back, but it was hollow, unreal. aIave come to expect it.a aIam sorry,a Cyrus said, and meant it. aIam sorry if Iave been unkind to you.a She smiled, and her expression was more genuine but still tight. aI believe you. And I bid you good night.a She turned and drifted into the shadows of the hall, and he could barely see her as she walked along, toward the throne room.

Cyrus entered the Baronas quarters to find him on the ground, lying on his side, moaning. Hoygrafas eyes found Cyrus as he entered the room, and looked around at the rich surroundings, the tapestries and furniture, made as exquisitely as any of the pieces head seen of note in Sanctuary. aYou know, Baron, you had a pretty good life here before you went and stuck your head in the dragonas mouth.a The Baron had a layer of white, dried spittle around his mouth and he grunted, his reply low, straining to get out. aAnd will a again a after you leave.a Cyrus squatted a few feet from the man and looked at him. aI have my doubts youare going to pull through this, honestly. But I tell you what,a he said, cheery as anything to the dying man, aif you do pull through by some miracle, Iall have one of my womena"maybe the one you hanged on the wall of your castlea"put another knife in you. And I bet sheall be less charitable and more efficient in her choice of targets than I was.a aYou a are scum aa The Baron forced his words out in grunts.

aI find insults like that have more effect coming from someone who has the moral credibility to muster some righteous outrage with it,a Cyrus said with a taunting air. aMaybe a priest or something. But from you?a Cyrus leaned closer to the Baron. aTell me somethinga"did you let your men have their way with the captives or did you get in there and lead from the front?a The Baronas cold eyes found his and the man moaned in a guttural pain. Sweat beads were falling off his forehead and he was already pale, paler than he had been before. aDoes it matter at this point? Will it save me if I didnat?a aNo,a Cyrus said with a shake of his head. aThey were your men, after all, and in spite of whatever lies you might make up, I have no doubt that the beatings and all else happened with your permission, if not your direction. This is just a chance for you to ease your conscience before you die.a Hoygraf set his jaw and when he spoke, it sounded like his teeth were grinding. aI have nothing on my conscience to be rid of.a Cyrus viewed the Baron with cool indifference, watched the blood trickle from between his fingers where his hand rested on his belly. The air in the room stank of excrement and other things. aAre you a married man, sir?a The Baron looked up at him with hateful eyes. aPresuming you have not killed my wife in your haste to wreck my holdfast.a aI have killed no women in my siege,a Cyrus said. aThe women of the castle were escorted to the village, so I presume she is just fine, wherever she may be. I was only curious about her reaction to your efforts to violate members of my army.a aShe understood well that you foreigners and your loose women badly needed a lesson in manners and their place,a the Baron said between clenched teeth. aMy wife knew her place.a aIam sure you showed her that place often, and with considerable urging from the back of your hand,a Cyrus said. aIam going to have my guards move you to the dungeon so my people can have a nice evening of sleep without the benefit of your slow, miserable death to waken them. I trust we wonat be able to hear your screams from up here?a aYou are such a bastard,a Hoygraf said to him. aIf ever I get a chance to repay you for thisa"a aYou wonat,a Cyrus said. aHere, let me help you up.a He pulled the Baron to his feet and dragged him to the door, opening it to find four guards outside. He blinked at them in surprise, three humans whom he recognized but didnat know by name, all armored and clad as warriors, and Martaina. aCan you have thisa"a he gestured at Hoygraf, who he was dragging, ataken down to the dungeon?a aCertainly,a Martaina said, and nodded at two of the guards, who each took an arm and began to drag the Baron away.

aSweet dreams, Baron,a Cyrus said. aHave a lovely night thinking about your life and all the things youave done to bring yourself to this point.a aAll Iall be thinking of,a Hoygraf said as the guards turned him to speak, ais cutting your head off and showing your body to you before you die.a aDid I do that to you?a Cyrus asked, holding his hand to his chest, feigning a wounded expression. aNo, I simply exposed your innards to the light of day so that you could have a chance to expunge some of the darkness within.a Cyrus let his expression turn cold. aAnd thereas so much darkness within, Baron.a Cyrus waved in his direction and the guards carried him away, the Baron grunting as they turned the corner.

Cyrus turned to Martaina, grim thoughts now covering his countenance. aMake sure that our women who were captured are provided ventraamaq.a He thought about it for a beat. aDo we have any with us?a aI have some,a she said smoothly, without emotion. aIall make sure they get a dose each.a Cyrus frowned. aYour husband is back at Sanctuary.a When Martaina did not react, Cyrus suddenly wished for the ability to pull his words back from the air and banish them somewhere dark and far away, where they would never have been spoken. aOh. Carry on, then.a He turned and started back into the Baronas quarters, too sheepish to look at Martaina when she stopped him.

aThereas a woman who asked to stay behind when we took the others out. She says sheas the Baroness,a Martaina said, seemingly undisturbed by Cyrusas comment. aSheas asking to speak to the conqueror of the castle.a Cyrus thought about it for a long moment. aHave her escorted up. I seem to have put her husband on a slow path to the grave; the least I can do is hear her out and explain why heas fated to die.a Martaina grimaced. aAre you sure you wouldnat rather I did that?a Cyrus cocked an eyebrow at her. aDo you really want to?a The elfas grimace smoothed out, returning her ageless features to an expressionless mien. There were no wrinkles at the corners of her eyes. Cyrus could not tell how old Martaina was and had never asked. aA woman married to a man like that likely knows the danger of the day that the wrath he has wielded is loosed upon him. I wouldnat be surprised if she expects to be told heas dead already. Sheas most likely here to collect his body for burial and to plead for some of her possessions that were left behind.a aI expect I owe her the courtesy of an audience and an explanation,a Cyrus mused, still thinking it over. aI appreciate the offer, though. Have them bring her up.a aVery well,a Martaina said. aIall see to it.a She turned and crisply walked down the hall. Cyrus watched her receding back, her green cloak gone, revealing instead her green cloth shirt and pants, something designed to blend into the forests and thickets she seemed born to hide within.

Cyrus walked back into the Baronas quarters and waited. His eyes were drawn to the place where the Baron had lain, where a red puddle had already begun to dry into the rug. He almost flinched at it, thought about covering it up with something, anything, but decided against it. Perhaps she wonat notice.

There was a soft knock at the door. aEnter,a Cyrus said, and it swung wide to admit a woman in a green dress with a flowing skirt and a hem that dragged on the ground. Both her hands clutched at the top of the skirt around her waist, lifting it off the floor only slightly, reducing the drag against the carpeting. aCome in,a he said, taking note of her flowing brown hair and emerald eyes. She was young, younger than he, and her bosom was neatly displayed by her neckline. Had it not been for a few slight tears in the fabric, he would have assumed she put it on to impress him rather than believe she had been in it all day without anything to change into.

Cyrus rose from the chair and heard his armor squeak in protest. The chair protested more loudly at his weight, but he kept his gaze on the Baroness, met her green eyes without flinching away, tried to infuse his own expression with as much warmth as he could manage. He felt a pang of sorrow for what he was about to have to tell her, but there was nothing for it. aMy name is Cyrus Davidon of the guild Sanctuary.a aI am Cattrine, the Baroness Hoygraf.a She performed a curtsy, dipping her head and shoulders. Her hair was piled upon her head in an elaborate hairstyle. He watched as her gaze was drawn to the bloodstain on the rug behind him and coughed to turn her attention back to him. She gave no reaction beyond a subtle flicker of her eyes.

aI am pleased to make your acquaintance, Baroness,a Cyrus said, inclining his head in greeting. aI assume that it is quite the opposite in your case, which is understandable.a He swept his hand around, offering her the chair he had been sitting in.

aNo, thank you,a she said, her eyes filled with a quiet intensity. Try as he might, Cyrus could not see any deceit or anger burning within them. She is either indifferent to her husbandas plight and is carrying out mere formalities or she is superior at keeping her thoughts far below the surface. The Baronessas lips upturned very slightly, in a formal smile that held no genuine warmth of its own. aI trust you know why I am here?a aI had assumed you wanted your husbandas body returned.a Cyrus took two steps to his lef to a cabinet that held a silver tray on the top of it. Bottles of exotic glass, shaped in ways that Cyrus had not seen from glass blowers in Arkaria rested across the top of the bar. aWould you care for some refreshment?a aCertainly, you may offer me some of my husbandas own liquors,a she said without a trace of acrimony. aI recommend the spiced rum from the Isle of Remlorant.a Cyrus looked across the bottles again at the unfamiliar writing upon them. aI apologize a although we speak the same language, your landas methods of writing differ considerably from my own.a He heard her cross the room to him, felt her brush against him, and a pale forearm reached in front of him, plucking an ornate glass bottle from the bar. It was tall, and the glass was multifaceted, reminding him of an exceptionally large gemstone. aThat was quite the novelty,a the Baroness said, reaching for two glasses from the cabinet next to her, aI almost thought I was about to be served a drink by a man.a She poured a small quantity of the liquor into one of the glasses, and Cyrus caught a strong hint of alcohol in the air as she did so. aBy the man who killed my husband, no less.a There was no bitterness in her tone, Cyrus realized, just an aura of tiredness, of weariness, and the smallest hint of emotion. aDo you trust me to pour your cup, sir?a aI trust that if you poison me, my healer will revive me from death,a he said as she poured a second cup full of clear liquid. aA feat I daresay he wouldnat repeat for my poisoner.a aI have no interest in poisoning you,a she said, her hands clenching the glass. aIt profits me naught to have you dead, as I have no interest in pointless vengeance.a aYour husband is not yet dead, Baroness,a Cyrus said, and watched her entire body stiffen. He was at her shoulder, but she turned her face so that he could not see. aDo not take too much hope from that, though, as he is mortally wounded and will pass before much longer.a She was shorter than him by a head and a half at least, Cyrus realized, though she was still tall for a woman. She had angled herself so that he could not see her expression, but he saw the lines of her body, saw her left hand clutching the glass she had poured and saw it shake subtly, the liquid within rippling from the motion. aI see.a Her tone was dull, duller even than when she had spoken a moment before. She turned to Cyrus and he saw no trace of tears on her pretty face, nor any other emotion either, but the dark circles under her eyes hinted at more than she freely gave away. aWhere is he now?a Cyrus hesitated. aHe remains in the dungeon, where he will stay until he expires.a aI see,a she said again. aThis is his punishment for defying you?a aThis is his punishment for kidnapping my people and causing grievous bodily harm to them.a Cyrus studied her cool eyes, and he saw no hint of reaction at his accusation. aBut you knew what he did, didnat you?a Her eyes didnat even widen. aI didnat know that he did that, but I know my husband.a She took a long, slow sip of the spiced rum in her cup, her eyes downcast, but when the glass left her lips, her eyes rose and met Cyrusas. aIf it is as you say, and he is not long for this world, then even with the crimes he has committed, I would plead to you for leniency and ask you to allow him to die in comfort, in a bed, down in the village.a Cyrus took a sip of the rum and felt it burn all the way down. aNot here, in his own bed?a The Baroness stiffened. aI would not presume to tell you what to do with this castle now that you have taken it.a aYour husband did terrible things,a Cyrus said. aI am not inclined to let him free in his last hours.a The Baroness set her glass down and took a step closer to Cyrus, still separated from her by the cloth of her skirts. aI ask you not for clemency, sir, but leniency. If he is to die, then I suspect he is in pain. Am I wrong to want to lessen it?a aNot wrong,a Cyrus said, taking another sip, a longer one this time. aBut what he dida"a aWas cruel and capricious, Iall grant you,a the Baroness said. aBut I appeal to you for mercya"you, who are now master of his house by conquest.a aIam not master of his anything,a Cyrus said. aWeall be leaving in the morning on our way to Galbadien, where we were headed before your husband provoked me into this wasteful action. The things we take from your keep are only recompense for what we lost here.a He hesitated. aThe rest will be burned.a aSir Cyrus, perhaps you do not understand the full weight of what becomes yours,a the Baroness said, leaning closer to him.

aItas actually aLord Cyrus of Perdamun,a if you want to be formal,a he said, feeling a slight blush in his cheeks from the rum. It was good, and he seldom drank spirits or wine. aaCyrusa is also fine.a He turned his head to the side and downed the rest of his glass as she leaned her body against him. aIam afraid you do me no service, madam. I am leaving on the morrow. I have no desire to enter into a protracted battle with your King. I have business in Galbadien, business with Syloreas and its army, and all that I have here is concluded.a aWhen my husband dies,a she whispered, aI am no longer a Baroness, no longer of the House Hoygraf. I will be a fallen woman, from a fallen dynasty, and subject to beg on the streets for whatever scraps of food I might get, or be taken up as wife by some charitable stranger, but as the wife of the dead Baron Hoygraf I am sullied, impure, undesirable.a Cyrus stared down at her, felt the blood run hot in his veins. It has been far, far too long. aOf the many things you may be, I assure you that undesirable is not one of them.a aDo you have a wife back in your homeland? Or someone you are promised to?a Her other hand came up and stroked the stubble at his cheek.

aNo,a Cyrus said, sensing danger before him, abut neither does that mean I feel that just because I defeat a man in battle, I can take his wife as though she were chattel.a Her hand slid around the back of his neck and drew him closer to her. aEven if she were to be contenta"nay, happya"with such a pairing?a Cyrus slid his hands up and gently took hers from around his neck. aNot even then. Madam, I am sorry for your lossa"though your husband is not yet deada"but I cannot accept. Where I come from, women are not property to be exchanged along with gemstones and animals when a manas keep is conquered.a She seemed to crumple in his sight. aHere they are nothing buta"and without your aid, I am not only property but worthless property.a aI am truly sorry for that,a Cyrus said, inching away from her. aIf you wish, you may come with our army under my protectiona"but not as my woman or any such thing of that sort.a She bristled. aAs a harlot? A traveling woman, there for the pleasure of your men?a Cyrus raised an eyebrow. aNo, we donat have any of those. Youad accompany us as a free woman, whose rights and person are inviolate. Any such offense against said person would result in grievous penalties. When we return to Arkaria, you are welcome to make your own way in our society, which I suspect youall find to be slightly more a favorable. If not, then I wish you the best of success here in Luukessia. Regardless,a he said, feeling the regret seep through him, aI will allow you to take your husband back to the village if youad like, to die in a bed.a aThank you,a she said, ashen. aBut in all honesty, my husband is a monster, an inhuman beast with appetites as copious as they are revolting. His death in a dungeon is a fitting end for the atrocities he has perpetrated on others aa her lip quivered, aa and myself. I came to you because I am a woman who had much to lose, on the cusp of nothingness, and I wished to see the man who might spare me from it, if he were amenable.a aIam afraid I canat grant you that which you would have of me,a Cyrus said. aI am simply not so cavalier in my choice of marriage partners, and to propose that we wed after ten minutes of conversation is not in my character. The consequences could well be dire for both of us should we be forced to live with each other for the rest of our lives.a aI assure you that I am a good wife, sira"dutiful, faithful, and true. And in the matter of conjugal relations, I am willing and frequent ina"a aThatas about all I need to hear,a Cyrus said. aI trust in all you say, but believe mea"none of it will sway me.a He shook his head. aI apologize, but I must cut our audience short as my day will begin rather early tomorrow. Will you be returning to the village?a aI suppose,a she said, a strand of hair falling out of place on her head and into her eyes. aI was offered a bed for the night by one of the families down there, and as I have no bed herea"a She looked at Cyrus once more, and he saw hope and regret in her.

aIf you want to come with us and travel to Arkaria, weall be on the road for quite some time, but I can promise you itas a place where women are not property.a He drew himself up. aYouall be safe with our army, but it is going to be a long journey.a aI will consider your offer,a she said. aIf you will consider mine.a aI canat take advantage of you in that way,a Cyrus said, aand make no mistake, it would be taking advantage. You would be with me because I hold the power to restore you to a modicum of your former station. But I have only the basest desires for a willing slave, which it sounds like you are offering to be.a She started to open her mouth to protest but stopped, falling silent and bowing her head. aMy offer remains open, if you want to leave behind the idea that youall ever be beholden to a man again. I can see in you a woman who chafes under the bonds of your society.a She stared off into the distance, and Cyrus realized she was looking around the room one last time. aI thank you for your offer, sir, but Luukessia is my home.a Her green eyes met his, and he saw only coolness in them now. aI bid you well, and since you would not have me stay here, good night.a She curtsied for him, and a few more strands of her hair broke loose from the elaborate bun that she wore atop her head. She picked up her skirts and turned, walking toward the door. He hurried over and opened it for her and she let a stretched, worn smile cross her lips, one that never quite reached her eyes. With a subtle incline of her head toward him in thanks, she left, and he closed the door after her.

Cyrus went through to the bedchamber, alone, and began to take off his armor. Some pieces, like the mailed gloves, had come off frequently. Others, like his breastplate and backplate, felt as though they were stuck on, they had come off so rarely of late. A tub of lukewarm water waited for him in the corner; it had been hot before he had spoken with the Baroness. His underclothes peeled off with some difficulty and he slipped beneath the water, felt the grime wash off his skin. Something else remained, though, some taint or dirt he couldnat remove no matter how hard he scrubbed.

Chapter 12.

Cyrus awoke after a fitful night of sleep. The Baronas bed was massive, almost as big as Cyrusas bed back at Sanctuary. This one was carved entirely of wood, however, and had four posts that reached the ceiling, with hanging curtains for some illusory privacy should someone else be in the room. There was a chill from where he had left the window open, a thin port that allowed blue sky to filter in from outside along with crisp morning air. Cyrus felt the heavy covers over him, soft cotton cloth that smelled of other people.

He rolled out of bed, felt the cold on his skin, and went rummaging for underclothes in a wooden dresser. The first drawer he opened presented him with womenas undergarments. aOh,a Cyrus said after staring at them for a moment then shut the drawer. He walked across the room to the armoire on the other side and opened it to find male attire. He selected a cloth shirt and pants that he proceeded to stretch until he fit into them comfortably. Once finished, he began to strap on his armor.

Before placing his helm upon his head, he walked to the mirror and took a long look. His hair had grown long, long enough to place into a ponytail. His beard had also come in thick, black, and heavy. He sighed, thinking about how much more he had liked it when his face was bare and dismissed the thought. aIall shave again when Iam back home,a he said. aAnd not before.a When he opened the door to the Baronas quarters, he found Martaina outside with the same three guards. She didnat look tired at all but stood stiff against the wall at attention. aHave you been out here all night?a When he spoke, she seemed to stir, angling her head to look at him. aOf course. There was a concern that some of the Baronas men had hidden away in the castle, and we couldnat take a chance on them getting to you in the night.a Cyrus felt a smile struggle out from beneath his stony facade. aThen a shouldnat someone have been in the room with me?a Martainaas eyes flashed, and her jaw tightened. aI suggested as much, but Curatio believed that a thorough search of the room before you turned in was a good enough precaution.a Cyrus suppressed a snicker. aRanger, horse whisperer, master archer, guarda"tell me, Martaina Proelius, is there anything youare not proficient at?a He watched the emotion fall off her face, little cracks of it, hiding behind a wall she built in the span of a second. aVery little,a she said with an emotionless smile. aVery little, indeed.a aDid you manage to get all the valuables taken out of the Baronas quarters last night when you swept through?a Cyrus gestured for Martaina to follow him, which she did.

aWe found quite a few riches, yes,a she said, stepping shoulder to shoulder with him. Martaina was taller than most of the other women in Sanctuary, only slightly shorter than six feet tall. aI think we found most everything of value.a aConsider taking some of the liquor if youare into that sort of thing,a Cyrus said, feeling a slight ache behind his eyes. aI get the feeling it wasnat cheap, any of it.a aIall inform Terian. I think he would perhaps get more use out of it than any of the rest of us that are here.a Cyrus smiled. aBecause Andren isnat here, you mean to say.a aI mean to say.a They emerged in the throne room to find it largely clear of people. Only a few souls lingered, engaged in quiet conversations. Cyrus passed through the entry doors to the courtyard, Martaina still at his side, and the sunlight caused him to blanch. aWhat time is it?a he asked.

aNearing nine oaclock,a came the soft voice of Jaanda Aimant. The enchanter sat on a wooden chair just outside the door, lounging in the shadow of the rampart over his head, his feet on another chair in front of him. aWe assumed that since our General was unready to move forward, it might be safe to wait a while longer before hustling to be ready ourselves.a Jaanda had a silver goblet in his hand and a bottle of wine was on the ground next to him, the cork removed. He took a drink from the goblet after holding it up in silent toast to Cyrus.

aI take it youave insured that the Baronas wine cellar didnat go unattended?a Cyrus asked.

aI only took a few choice vintages. With Longwellas help, actually. I thought all humans spoke the same language, but these Luukessians have the most curious handwriting. It looks nothing like any of your words.a aThatas because the writing of humans in Arkaria is based on the elvish alphabet,a Martaina said.

aAh,a Jaanda said after taking another light sip. aNow that you mention it, I never noticed before, but yes, I see it now. But your letters are so peculiar compared to theirs.a aThey have more than we do,a she replied. aSo they had to have added some at some point.a aIs the army ready to move?a Cyrus asked, looking between Jaanda and Martaina.

aSoon,a Jaanda said, unconcerned. aCuratio is in the dungeons, taking a final look around, and, if Iam not mistaken, examining our dear, soon-to-be-departed Baron.a As if on cue, Cyrus heard a great outcry from somewhere inside, and there was a slamming of doors within the keep. A few people joined them in the courtyard, leaving the confines of the throne room behind. Cyrus heard loud footsteps within, and Curatio and Terian emerged, the dark knight looking strangely satisfied and the healer a bit flushed. aWhat was that?a Cyrus asked.

aThe Baron still has some fight left in him,a Terian said. aHe got very upset when Curatio tried to look at his wound, so I was forced to settle him down.a Cyrus felt cool trepidation run through him. aHow is he?a Curatio sighed. aNot well. I suspect he has an infection, something Iam not able to cure. He appears feverish from a distance, but that could just be from the pain of having a large hole in his middle.a aI know thatas the sort of thing that would tend to put me in a sour mood,a Jaanda said, irony dripping from every syllable.

aWell, have him dragged out,a Cyrus said without emotion. aAs cruel as I am, I donat want to burn the manas house with him still in it. We have a message for him to deliver, after all.a He turned away as Curatio gestured to two warriors standing near the entry to the throne room, motioning them back inside.

Cyrus walked out across the drawbridge and felt a slight current of air as he crossed the filthy water below. The army was present, for the most part, on the other side, but not assembled nor ordered at all. They stood about, in clumps of people, talking in subdued circles. Cyrus could see empty bottles strewn on the ground and suspected that the Baronas wine cellar had been well and truly pillaged in the night. aI hope no oneas too hung over to march today,a he said as he passed a clump of soldiers. Laughter greeted his words even as he caught sight of a couple green faces in their midst.

Windrider waited with the other horses, already saddled. Cyrus approached him and ran an ungloved hand across his back, causing the horse to whinny at him. He brushed the back of Windrideras neck and whispered to him before turning back to see Martaina staring at him from next to her own horse, an eyebrow raised. aHe seems to understand me,a he explained, feeling slightly embarrassed.

aHe does,a she said. aThat one is the rarest breed Iave ever seen. Thatas not just an ordinary horsea"or even just an exceptional one, for that matter. Where did you find him?a aHeas Sanctuaryas horse,a Cyrus said. aIave been riding him since the first time I had need of a horse, as I recall.a aSince the day Alaric paired you with him, you mean.a Cyrus turned his head to see Curatio already mounting his steed, a slight smile on his face.a Cyrus frowned. aI suppose he did, at that. Anyway, Iave always gone back to him since then.a He ran his hand through Windrideras mane and was rewarded with the horse turning his head to brush against Cyrus.

aThatas quite a horse,a Martaina said, aIad keep him close.a Cyrus put a foot in the stirrup and climbed up. As he settled himself, he saw Odellan a few paces away. aOdellan,a Cyrus said, drawing the elfas attention. aDid you stay out here all night?a aNo, sir,a Odellan said as his horse trotted over to stand next to Cyrusas. aAll of our soldiers slept behind the walls last night, myself included. We bunked in the barracks in shifts, so everyone got some time in a genuine bed.a Cyrus shot a look at Martaina, who looked away innocently. aWell, almost everyone.a He looked beyond Odellan to where a few horse-drawn wagons were parked at the far edge of the army. aIs that our spoils?a aIndeed,a Odellan said. aWeave made out rather well. The injured prisoners we freeda"including Calenea"will be riding in the wagons the next few days. The six of them that were men seem to be holding up rather well. They were only beaten, after all. Calene and the other womana"Sinora is her namea"are slightly worse for the wear. Calene seems to be adapting, but Sinora may be riding the wagon the rest of the trip.a aLetas talk about this later,a Cyrus said as a familiar figure rode up on a horse. Today her hair was down, wrapped into a ponytail behind her, the long brown strands standing out against the white shirt she wore. Gone was the dress, replaced by immaculate white breeches that went all the way to her ankles. Her boots were worn, brown cowhide, and she wore a navy overcoat that fell to mid-thigh. Her eyes were visible as she approached him, the green standing out against her garments and her face. A few stray hairs blew around the sides of her head as she brought her horse to a canter, then a stop next to him.

aBaroness,a he said. aA pleasure to see you.a aI believe itas soon to be simply Cattrine, if it is not already.a She remained proud, her head held up. aI have mulled over your offer and believe it is in my best interest to leave this place behind.a aI see,a Cyrus said. aVery well then. Follow my commands and keep up.a He looked at her horse. aThat looks like a solid animal; I doubt youall have any trouble in that regard.a aThank you, Lord Davidon,a she said, oddly formal. aI shanat present any problems for you.a aGood to know,a he said. aHow familiar are you with the lands between here and Galbadien?a He saw the first hint of emotion as the corner of her lip curled slightly in response to his inquiry. aI am an expert rider, sir. I have been over the entirety of Actaluere, from the southern shores to the northern and eastern borders. I have even been,a she said with a hint of pride, aall the way to the bridge to your land and on it, though only for a short distance.a aThe well-traveled sort,a Terian said as he mounted his destrier. aWhich makes sense, considering who your husband was.a The dark knight smiled wickedly. aI bet he broke you in quite well.a Cattrineas eyes narrowed. aI think I hear an inference from you that I donat care for, sir. Donat think that simply because my fortunes have been lost in the last day that Iall take any sort of insults from some blue-skinned devil. I am a lady, sir, and if you wonat accord me the respect duea"a aYouall what?a Terian moved his horse close enough to hers to look her in the face, and Cyrus saw nothing but pique in the dark elfas expression. Cyrus started to tell Terian to back off her, but there was a flash of metal and Cyrus saw a dagger at the dark elfas throat.

aIall ask you to take a step back,a Cattrine said in a low voice.