aI see,a Cyrus said, feeling particularly wry. aI guess I shouldnat expect anything less from a treacherous Luukessian. After all, youare an easterner, the same as Baron Hoygraf of Actaluere, beaters and oppressors of women, rapists anda"a There was a crash of furniture as the chair that Count Ranson was sitting in fell back, splintering on the floor. The countas sword was in his hand and a look of purest rage was on his face. aYou take that back, you filthy bastard, Iave never laid a hand in anger on a woman in my life, let alone beaten and whipped them like that scuma"a aOh, Iam sorry,a Cyrus said, mock-offended, aperhaps I shouldnat have unfairly grouped all you easterners into the same lot.a He picked up one of the six spoons gathered around his plate and dipped it in the soup, bringing it up to his mouth slowly and taking a long sip with one hand while keeping the other rested on Praelior under the table and well out of sight.

aWell said, sir,a the King guffawed. aCount Ranson, surely you can tell that there are differences between our guests and these mercenaries. After all, I see no half-men here among our guests.a aWe left our dwarves back at the village,a Cyrus said. aBut letas be plain,a he looked to Count Ranson, who had resumed his seat with the aide of the servant lingering behind him, athere are several nations and powers in the west, just as there are here. To confuse the peoples of different nations and guilds with each other is as insulting to us, in some cases, as it would be for me to make the comparison here that I just did.a aI had said before that we should move to more felicitous topics of conversation,a the King said with a sigh. aPerhaps we can do so now.a With that, he picked up the remainder of his bowl and brought it to his lips, slurping the rest of his soup.

Cyrus sent a furtive look to the Baroness next to him. She was cringing even though she was trying to keep her eyes on her own soup, which she took dainty spoonfuls of. Past her were Ryin and Nyad, seated side by side and conversing pleasantly with Odau Genner. The rest of the Sanctuary members were sprinkled around the table, talking with their counterparts from Galbadienas army.

The only two notable exceptions were Martaina and Aisling, each of whom was only a few seats down from the Baroness, on the other side of Odau Genner. Martainaas hand was on her bow, which leaned against her chair, while she used the other to feed herself. Her eyes were slitted, watching the table coolly for any sign of trouble; if Cyrus had to guess, he would have bet that her bow had in fact been nocked with an arrow only moments before, when Count Ranson had been out of his chair.

Aisling sat a little further down than Martaina, a quiet spot in the gathering. The dark elf seemed to be watching everything with a furtive eye, and Cyrus noticed her turning her ears toward certain conversations under the guise of adjusting her hair. All the while, she was nursing her bowl of soup but had scarcely eaten any of it.

aWhat do you think of our predicament, General Davidon?a The stiff words drew Cyrusas attention back to Count Ranson, who was looking at him with eyes that were hard like stone, dark circles glaring at him out of the candlelit dim.

aI think we should march out tomorrow and meet your enemies,a Cyrus said, taking another spoonful of the soup. It was rich and flavorful, and he found himself enjoying it much more than anything head had in months.

aThe battle is set for the day after tomorrow,a the King said from the head of the table as a loaf of bread was placed before him. He reached for it with both hands and tore off the end, handing it to a servant who slathered it with butter. aI see no reason why we should hurry into it recklessly, especially now that we have forces at our disposal with which to surprise Briyce Unger.a The Kingas smile was broad and full as he took the bread from the servant and bit into it, crumbs falling upon his deep blue blouse.

aSire,a Count Ranson said, awe have danced to Ungeras tune throughout this entire war and look what it has gotten us.a aIam inclined to agree with the count,a Cyrus said, drawing the Kingas attention. A very brief flash of ire was visible in the Kingas eyes but disappeared quickly. aObviously, I have no idea what your strategy has been from the outset, but I know that in battle, if an enemy expects attack in two days, I prefer to hit him the day before, when he doesnat expect it.a aThat sounds like base chicanery,a the King said, lowering his head and biting deep into the bread in his hands. aLike something that would come from the Kingdom of Actaluere and not our own halls.a Cyrus heard another cough from the Baroness and saw her begin to open her mouth. He reached over and tried to drop a hand on hers and missed, sending his gauntlet to her thigh instead. He looked at her with chagrin and saw her mouth drop slightly open and her eyes widen in amusement. He began to stutter an apology, but the count started to speak again, drawing the Baronessas attentiona"and his owna"back to the table.

aThey have yet to treat us with the honor you speak of, Your Highness,a Count Ranson said in measured tones. aThey struck without warning, have burned and pillaged our lands, used outsiders with power that we could not match, and now stand at our gates, ready to send us into ignominious defeat. If your enemy strikes at you from behind, does it not make sense to do the same to him?a The King chewed his bread thoughtfully. aLet them have their dishonor. We shall hold our heads high and defeat them nonetheless.a Cyrus could see the Count lock his jaw and lower his head, turning away from his liege. aYour Majesty,a Cyrus said, aI understand your wish for your army to maintain their honor. However,a he continued, feeling the tension rise in the room, aIam afraid Iam going to have to march with my army on the morrow.a The Kingas face became slack, a grim mask at the defiance being aired in his hall. aYou would do this without my leave?a aI apologize, Your Highness,a Cyrus said. aI intend no disrespect, nor do I wish to challenge the high standards with which you govern your realm and conduct your affairs. However, I led my army to this land with the intent of bringing every last one of them home again, and I will live up to that promise to the best of my ability. That means if Iam going to pit them against superior numbers and a force that contains spellcasters, Iam going to need every advantage I can get, even ones I make for myself. Which includes the element of surprise, something which has won more battles than any wizard.a The King watched him through half-lidded eyes, his mouth downturned. aI find your intransigence a disconcerting. But I cannot find fault in your desire to protect your people.a A lamb leg was placed in front of the King, and he picked it up. He took an enormous bite, chewing as he responded, words coming between movements of his jaw. aVery well, then. Let it be upon your honor. You will be at the head of our army and in nominal command of the battle. If anyone should ask, I will put the dishonor of surprise attacks upon you, not our Count Ranson.a Ranson stiffened at that, but nodded his head somewhat reluctantly. aWould you be amenable to that, Lord Davidon?a aAmenable to taking over your army?a Cyrus smiled. aI think I can manage that.a aTo clarify,a the King went on, ayou will lead the battle, but Count Ranson will have full control over the movements of our army. If you wish for him to do something, you will have to convince him yourself.a Cyrus felt his hands clench and heard a sharp intake of breath from his left. He looked over to realize his gauntlet was still on the Baronessa thigh and hastily removed it, earning a pitying look from her. aVery well,a Cyrus said.

The Kingas eyebrow rose. aVery good, then. Let us speak of these dull matters no more, and turn our attention instead to the entertainments of the evening.a He lifted his hands as if to clap them, but before he could, a door opened at the far end of the room and a quartet of musicians with instruments came forth, situating themselves in the corner far to Cyrusas left, where the King could see them best. The lead musician was a singer, and his voice rang out over the room, a smooth, dulcet sound that echoed beautifully from the walls as heads turned to watch.

Cyrus looked from the singer to the Baroness as the rest of the members of the group began to play stringed instruments. The Baroness looked back at him with deep amusement, a sly smile on her face.

Cyrus leaned close to her ear. aI was reaching for your hand, earlier, to try and calm you down after what was said.a She pulled back to look at him, and her eyebrow raised, her smile widened before turning coy. aAnd you think taking my hand would calm me? Apparently we should change your nickname from Cyrus the Unbroken to Cyrus the Obliviousa"to take into account the effects you have on women that you donat even notice.a Cyrus hemmed then hawed. aI doubt that my taking your hand would be cause for all that much excitement.a aMmmm,a the Baroness seemed to ponder his reply as she let out a humming sound that harmonized with the music. aI donat know. I think you might be underestimating your charisma and legendary reputation as a leader who keeps very strictly to himselfa"including his hands and all else.a aHa ha,a Cyrus said with a fake, low-key laugh. aI prefer to channel all my efforts into battle. Itas less dangerous.a aWell, now,a the Baroness said, aI suspect that has more to do with the women youave courted. Perhaps if you tried one who didnat carry a sword aa aPerhaps one who carried a dagger, instead?a She put her hand on her chest in mock outrage, drawing his attention to her shirt, which had a high collar but reminded him for a beat of the low-cut dress she had worn when first they met and how it had displayed her ample bosoms. aThat a lady would carry a weapon is such an outrageous proposition.a Her feigned shock disappeared as she tossed a shoulder casually, then smiled. aHowever, when in the company of Arkarians, one can never be too well armed, especially if one is a woman.a Cyrus reached for his wine glass and took a deep drink as he pondered his reply. aAnd when in the company of beautiful women, regardless of origin, I find that blades are the least painful way that they can hurt you.a The Baroness reached for her wine glass and held it before her. aIall drink to that truth, Lord Davidon, if youall drink to minea"when it comes to men, being outmatched by them physically is quite a bit more painful and likely to happen than being outmatched by them mentally.a She smiled broadly as she noted his pained reaction. aPresent company excepted, perhaps.a aIam not likely to do either if I keep drinking this excellent wine,a Cyrus said, setting down his cup and watching the servant behind him rush forward to refill the glass.

aOh my,a the Baroness said in a quiet voice as the singer trilled in the corner. aLord Cyrus Davidon, physically and mentally vulnerable? Quickly, grab for my handa"I may become very excitable.a He chuckled under his breath as she leaned in closer to him. aYouare different than the women Iave known, Cattrine.a He stared at her and she stared back, her green eyes glinting at him.

aHave you met many Baronesses?a She said it with the amusement that she seemed to layer over everything, and he found himself chuckling again.

aNo. But I doubt thatas why I find you so intriguing.a aOh?a He caught a glimmer of interest in her eyes, but the sound of chairs scraping against the marble floor drew his gaze back to the Kingas seat, where the King himself was now standing.

aIf youall all excuse me,a the King said as the music died in the room, the last squeals of bows drawn across instruments ending abruptly. The entire table rose belatedly to pay him homage, but he walked from the room toward a nondescript door, three servants and two armored guards in tow, before they had all gotten to their feet.

aDid I just miss the end of the party?a Cyrus asked as they sat back down.

aYouall have to excuse the King,a Odau Genner leaned over the table from several seats away to address him. aHeas not feeling quite well right nowa"understandable, given what heas faced with at the moment.a aLord Davidon,a came the voice of Count Ranson across the table from him. aMy army can be ready to leave by sunrise tomorrow. Would that be sufficiently early for you?a aIad like a chance to review maps of this area, if you have them,a Cyrus said, watching the Count as the man nodded. aI donat want to leave and march off to battle without some hint of strategy.a He smiled. aIad like to catch them while theyare sleeping tomorrow night, if we can.a aThat should be possible,a Ranson said, a hand on his clean-shaven chin. aTheyall be camped in the northern reaches of the Fields of Gareme. It is half a dayas march. It is a flat land, and if we can deal adequately with their scouts, we should be able to approach them without being seen.a The countas face twisted into a half-grin. aWhich is better than meeting them in the middle of the fields in broad daylight.a aAye,a Cyrus said and glanced at the leg of lamb waiting upon his plate. aWhy donat we meet first thing in the morning with our officers to discuss the strategy? We can come to some agreement before we leave.a aVery well,a Count Ranson nodded and stood, executing a short bow. aI will go and make preparations.a The older man grimaced slightly. aIf you would be willing to hear suggestions, I am very familiar with those lands and could likely help you to come up with a battle plan.a aI am eager to hear suggestions, Count,a Cyrus said with a tight smile, aas I have no knowledge of these plains you speak of, nor of the Kingdom of Syloreasas army.a aVery good, Lord Davidon,a the count said with a curt nod. aIall have one of my men send for you at sunrise and weall discuss preparations then.a The count let a half-smile of obvious relief flood his face, then turned and walked around the table and from the room, through the double doors into the foyer.

The singer commenced with his song again shortly thereafter, and Cyrus had some more wine. He saw Samwen Longwell sitting across from him, but the younger man did not meet his gaze, picking at his food instead. Did something happen between father and son when I wasnat paying attention? He looked down the table, noted the others engaged in conversation and discussion save for Aisling, who seemed to almost disappear between two Galbadien men in armor, and Martaina, who was no longer seated but had instead removed herself to lean against the wall. Cyrus had to almost turn around in his chair to find her, but when he did, she nodded at him.

He shook his head and turned back to find the Baroness delicately picking at the meat on her plate with a fork and knife. aHow do you do that?a he asked.

She glanced at him and went back to sawing off a small cut of meat no larger than Cyrusas pinky knuckle. She then delicately speared it with her fork and placed it into her mouth, chewing slowly and with a smile on her face the entire time. When she swallowed it, her smile grew more enigmatic. aItas called patience, Lord Davidon, and itas required when youare eating like a lady, else you might become exasperated with the miniscule bites that manners require you to take and try to gnaw the meat directly from the bone.a Cyrus held the leg bone in his hand, pondering the meat on it, then the five different forks and three knives that were set around his plate. aI hope you wonat be offended if I donat subscribe to your dainty eating habits.a She chuckled. aI think I should be more offended if you did. I am eating like a lady, after all. If you did the same, I might wonder about you, to think that perhaps the reason that youare rumored to have gone so long without female companionship in your bed is something more basic than poor luck and good consideration.a He looked at her, stunned. aWait. How did you know itas been a?a He sighed as the answer occurred to him. aRumors.a aAll flattering to your character, I assure you.a She patted him on the arm. aA true gentleman and a man of strong discipline, one who has been in love for a long time and held himself in check during that period.a She took another bite and her smile faded. aA man for whom rash intemperance is not even a consideration. I admire that about you, if what they say is true.a Cyrus managed a tight smile. aItas true enough, but I havenat felt like it was a mark of prestige, exactly.a aBe proud, Lord Davidon,a the Baroness said. aYou are very unlike the men I have known. And in my case, this is a very good thing, possibly the highest compliment I can pay.a Cyrus grasped for his cup and took a long drink of wine. aThank you, I think.a aYouare welcomea"I think.a The Baroness became caught up in a conversation with Ryin and Nyad only moments later, and Cyrus was left to finish the last of his leg of lamb before a succulent slice of chocolate cake was placed in front of him. Feeling slight disquiet in his stomach from the richness of the food, he took a deep inhalation from the cake, then two small bites and decided that stopping was the wisest course. With a last look around the table, he stood, and the servant behind him quickly helped him move his chair.

The Baroness turned her head. aCalling it a night already?a aI think so,a he said. aIam not quite sure what time it is, but Iam tired and I have an early morning meeting tomorrow.a aI should probably turn in as well,a she said, aided by the servant behind her who darted in and helped her move the heavy wooden seat so that she could stand. The Baroness turned to Ryin and Nyad. aGood night, you two.a Cyrus didnat hear their replies, as he was already looking toward the door. Martaina waited beside it, and as Cyrus offered his arm to the Baroness out of politeness and she took it, he saw the elven womanas face crease with a smile that she hid by turning away and looking at the musicians at the other end of the room.

aSomething funny, Martaina?a he asked her as he passed through the door.

aNot a thing, sir,a she said, still amused when she turned back. aThereas a steward in the foyer providing us escort to our rooms,a she said. aIam told the one that they have for you is quite palatial, fitting with your numerous and august titles.a He raised an eyebrow at her. aNow youare making fun of me.a Martaina smiled. aNot at all, sir. Shall I come get you at sunrise for your meeting?a aThe count said head send someone,a Cyrus said and turned back to the Baroness. aGet some rest.a Cyrus walked into the foyer, the Baronessas arm tucked through his. A man waited in the middle of the room, with two others behind him. aSir and Madam,a the man said with a little bow, his silk crimson shirt moving delicately as he dipped low. He looked first to Cyrus. aI have a room for you, General. Will your companion be needing a room of her own?a Cyrus felt a brief awkwardness before he looked at the Baroness, a slight smile on his face as he felt the rush of the wine, causing his head to swim. aI donat know,a he said. aDo you?a She tilted her head in surprise and looked back at him. aI donat know. Do I?a Cyrus felt the moment slow down around him, looked at her, her green eyes locked on his. The smell of the lamp oil filled the hall and gave off an oddly intoxicating scent. Cyrus could feel his head swimming in a fog, the wine mixing with the fatigue to make him smile more than he should have. He saw the faintest hint of a flush on the Baronessas cheeks, and he smiled, the weight of other things on his mind gone, blown away in a carefree breeze for the first time in months. aNo,a he said. aTonight, I donat think you do.a She smiled at him, then looked to the steward. aI wonat be needing my own accommodations,a she said. aBut thank you for asking.a aVery well,a the steward said, bowing again. aIf youall follow me.a He led them up stairs, through corridors, winding around passages. The steward kept up a steady stream of commentary throughout, but Cyrus did not listen; his eyes and attention were fixed upon the Baroness, who had scarcely taken hers off of him. He could see the levity within her expression, mixed with more than a little amusement but tempered with the slightest bit of concern.

aHere we are,a the steward said, ushering them through a set of double doors off a long, torchlit corridor with lamps hanging overhead for good measure.

As they entered the room, Cyrus stopped in mild surprise. It was indeed palatial; white marble floors filled the cavernous entry. Stuffed chairs and a long sofa made of cowhide and stuffed with down made up a sitting area in front of a fireplace. A luscious bearskin rug was in front of the hearth, where a fire blazed quietly. The walls were the same sort of plaster that had been present in the dining room, but the ceiling was far, far above them and three different chandeliers cast their light down upon the room.

Cyrus walked, the Baroness on his arm, to the center of the room. aYour bedroom is in there, sir,a the steward said. aThere is a garderobea"a toileting rooma"in a separate closet on the other side of it. Is there anything I can get for you?a Cyrus looked at the Baroness, who shook her head. aYou may leave,a she said. aThank you.a The steward nodded his head, bowed, and made his exit, leaving Cyrus alone with her, a growing unease in his belly, a nervous sort of tension that caused him to taste bitterness in his mouth. aWhatas wrong?a she asked, hovering closer to him, close enough that he could feel her, feel his body ache for her to come closer.

Cyrus swallowed heavily. aWhy are you doing this?a She stepped closer, pressed against his armor, her cloth riding blouse giving him the strangest urge to run his hand across the fabric. She took hold of his gauntlet and pulled it slowly off; Cyrus felt his palms sweaty, sticky, and wished he could wipe them somewhere. He felt a tinge of embarrassment as she took his hand in hers and placed it on her back. aBecause I want to,a she breathed, whispered in his ear. She pulled back and looked at him, locked eyes, stared him down, and the animal urge within consumed him and he kissed her, deeply and heavily, breathing hard as he broke from her. aBecause although it may have been a long time for you since your last lover, for me aa her hand stroked his cheek, aI have never been with a man I have freely chosen.a She pressed her lips against him, again, and he felt the rising tide of his desire. His fingers went to the straps on his pauldrons and loosened them, then he lifted them over his head and dropped them to the floor where they landed with a fearsome clatter. His breastplate and backplate went next, along with the gorget that protected his neck, his lips firm against hers the whole time. He heard his remaining gauntlet hit the floor then the vambraces from his arms and bracers from his forearms, each making a clank of its own.

aI didnat know that it would be so easy to get you to agree to take off your armor,a she said, breaking away from him, abut so hard to actually get it all offa She dived back in at him again, pressing her lips against his neck, kissing, suckling, causing a little thrill of sensation to run through him.

Her lips met his again and he thrust his tongue into her mouth, swirling it against hers as he kicked off each of his boots, one at a time. His greaves fell off next, and she helped him slide the chainmail that undergirded it all over his head, leaving him in only his cloth underclothes. She stepped back from him for a moment, her eyes on his, and he could feel all the heat between them as he pulled off his undershirt.

He reached for her, his fingers caressing the collar of her shirt, and he unlaced the front of it, starting to slip it over her head. Her hand came up quickly and found his, stopping him. aPlease,a she said, and he could hear a hint of pleading in her voice, anot out here.a She turned her head toward the bedroom. aIn there. In the dark.a aAll right.a He reached for her and lifted her up, and she squealed in pleasure as he cradled her in his arms and kissed her again. He carried her into the bedroom and laid her upon the bed, extinguishing the lamps, plunging the room into semi-darkness. He could see her face in the narrow shaft of light coming from the main room, saw her eyes as they flicked toward the door. He got up and drew it nearly closed, so that only a crack remained, shedding a narrow band of the luminescence as he returned to the beda"and to her embrace.

Chapter 15.

When Cyrus awoke in the morning, it was just before sunrise. He felt a lazy smile on his face. The Baroness lay curled against his side; he had awoken in the night and they had made love again, madly, feverishly, and afterwards held each other until Cyrus faded into another deep, dreamless sleep. His fingers traced lines along the maddening number of scars that crisscrossed the skin of her back and belly, and he wondered at the sort of man who would do such a thing.

The morning light was shining into the main room of their suite, brightening the interior of the bedroom as well. Cyrus heard a faint knocking in the distance and paused, listening for it. It came again, a moment later, and he gently shifted the Baroness off his arm, laying her head upon a pillow, and rolled out of bed, grabbing a blanket and wrapping it around himself as he walked out into the main room.

There was another insistent rapping as he drew the bedroom door shut. His bare feet padded on the cool marble and when he reached the door, he opened it to find Martaina waiting outside with a young boy.

aSir,a Martaina said with a thin smile. aCount Ranson has sent a page for youa"he is ready for you and the officers to meet to discuss the battle strategy.a aOh,a Cyrus said. aRight. Iall need a few minutes to get dressed and Iall be right along.a The young boy nodded and ran off down the hall, while Martaina stood still. aI thought I told you to get some rest. Were you out here all night?a aYep,a she said, backing herself against the wall opposite his door. aAisling was with me at first but aa The elfas face tightened and her eyebrow raised in amusement. aShe left after your first round of a nocturnal calisthenics.a Cyrus froze. aYou heard a She heard it too? Damn.a He felt a sharp stab of guilt. aI suppose Iam going to have to deal with a scorned dark elf at some point.a aI doubt sheas murderous about it,a Martaina said. aBut I would say she is disappointed. The Baroness, on the other hand, sounded very pleaseda"a aOh, stop it,a Cyrus said. aJust because youave appointed yourself my bodyguard doesnat meana"a aIam your bodyguard?a Martaina laughed. aIad be hard-pressed to protect you from all the threats you face, let alone the wife of an enemy you killed last month whom you just invited into your bed. Iall do my best to watch out for threats, but if Iam your bodyguard, I demand you make my job easier.a Cyrus pasted a fake smile on. aIf youare not my bodyguard, why are you lurking outside my door at all hours? Are you some sort of gratuitous peeper?a He looked down at the door handle. aShould I hang something over the keyhole in order to get some privacy?a Martaina let out a noise of faint amusement. aUnless you plan to stuff a sock in both your mouth and the Baronessas, Iall still hear you.a aThanks,a Cyrus said. He shut the door and paced back into the bedroom, snugging the blanket around his shoulders. He opened the door and found the Baroness waiting for him, a white sheet lying across her lower body. She jumped in surprise when she saw him, and he noted again the series of scars that ran across her arms and chest, rises in the flesh that looked as though skin had been torn in strips from her arms. Wide cuts crisscrossed the surface of her stomach, angry red lines that looked out of place on her pale belly.

aWas someone at the door?a she asked.

He let the blanket slip to the floor and slid into bed next to her. She remained sitting, giving him a full view of her back, which was wretched in its appearancea"great patches of skin and meat seemed to be missing, as though parts of her flesh had been torn out, ripping the musculature from underneath as well. He ran a single finger down her spine and she stiffened, and he saw her shoulders shake as she exhaled. aPlease,a she said, adonat touch me there a donat look. Itas horrible.a aHave you looked at mine?a He sat up and leaned forward to sit next to her, shoulder to shoulder. She turned her head to see him and he leaned forward further. aIave been in a fight or two in my life that left me with scars.a He felt her hand upon his back as it slid down below his shoulder blades. aThese a what are these from?a she asked.

aFrom whippings,a he said, and felt himself tense at the memory, afrom when I was at the Society. Itas how they disciplined you when you got out of line or defied orders.a He reached out and took her other hand in his. aOr when you ran away.a aRan away from what?a aFrom battle.a He stroked her hand with his, intertwined his fingers with hers. aFrom the Society. From anything, really.a aYou ran away from the Society?a He felt the cool touch of her fingertips go lower, still brushing the thicker scar tissue. There was quite a lot of it.

aOnce.a He rubbed the palm of her hand with his fingers, felt the smoothness of it save for a few callouses that had formed in the last month. aThe first year I was there. I got quite a few of these whipping scars that year.a aHow old were you?a She leaned in and put her head on his shoulder.

He felt her warm breath on his neck and he wrapped his arm around her. aSix.a She jerked her head away and looked up at him, pity in her eyes. aI was six when I went to the Society.a She leaned her head back down on him. aHow long before your meeting?a He ran his fingers down her side, causing her to shiver. aI could leave at any time.a She pulled her head off his shoulder, her long brown hair loose and framing her face, flowing down either side of it. He caught a sparkle from her green eyes. aAny time? Meaning in an hour?a aI could wait an hour,a he said, and caressed her again. aEasily an hour.a Her hand slipped below the sheets and he felt the heat, the pressure. aMy, my,a she said with a cluck of the tongue, ayou do seem to be a man of infinite vigor.a She kissed him again, briefly.

aItas been a while,a he said. aI doubt I could keep going at this pace forever.a She kissed him again, and he broke it off after a moment. aAlthough, I confess that Iam feeling enthusiastic enough to try. I had forgotten how much fun this could be.a aMmmhmm,a she said, tracing a line of kisses down his shoulder. aBut if you never leave this bed, wonat your army eventually leave without you?a He felt a slow smile spread across his face. aI am the General, you know. My army doesnat move without me.a She leaned closer and kissed his lips gently. aAnd if the Count sends for you again?a aMartaina will tell them to go away,a Cyrus said, letting her kisses consume him, returning them with all the passion and intensity head had for her last night. He turned his shoulders and bore her gently to the mattress, letting his desire for her carry them both away again.

Chapter 16.

aGeneral Davidon,a Count Ranson said brusquely as Cyrus walked into his war room an hour later. The Count stood behind a table in the center of the room, some of the other Sanctuary officersa"Longwell, Curatio, Terian and Jaandaa"as well a few of the Countas lieutenants were scattered around him. aI hope you donat mind, but we did start without you.a Cyrus noted just a hint of contrition in the Countas pronouncement.

aI donat mind at all,a Cyrus said. aI apologize for my tardiness, but it has been a rather long a uh a journey.a He shot a look at Martaina, who snickered behind him. aAnyway, why donat we get to it?a Cyrus walked to the massive table, a circular one that had a diameter greater than the height of a man and looked down at it. Painted on the surface was a map of the Kingdom of Galbadien, along with parts of Actaluere and Syloreas. The map ended at the beginning of the peninsula that contained the Endless Bridge back to Arkaria and also cut off the land of Syloreas above a mountain range. aVery impressive,a Cyrus said. aI bet it would also be good for setting up a dollhouse in the middle and then playinga"a aIf I may,a the Count said tightly, bringing a long stick out to point to the open plains above Vernadam, which was marked on the map with a small, carved stone castle roughly three inches tall. It was a remarkable approximation for the size, even sitting on a small, green-painted rise on the table. aThey are encamped approximately here. They will meet us in battle tomorrow, as it has been arranged,a he swept the stick down an inch, ahere. The whole of the plains is relatively flat ground, as such things goa"some sloping hills but nothing too disagreeable for fighting.a aWhat kind of tactics have the Syloreans been using?a Longwell asked, his eyes focused on the map table.

aLess of the usual,a Ranson said. aThey havenat been engaging us on horseback nearly as much as they have in the past, preferring to use their footmena"infantry, I believe I heard your men call them,a he said with a nod to Cyrus, aand leading with their bloody magical mercenaries.a aHow has that played against our dragoons?a Longwell asked, the fingers of his right hand resting on his chin, deep in thought.

aNot well,a Ranson went on, athanks to that bloody half-man. He holds his hand out when the dragoons charge and half our number are blasted from the backs of their horses, and their animals tend to go into a rage, spooked into stomping their own riders when they recover.a aSounds like a paladin, all right,a Curatio said. He leaned both hands on the table. aWeall be needing to take him out of circulation firsta"him and their healer.a aLetas hope they donat get the same idea about you, yes?a Jaanda smirked at Curatio, who shrugged in return. aI know,a the dark elf went on, awe have more than one healer, but stilla"why tempt fate?a aItas not fate Iam worried about,a Cyrus said, staring down at the table, willing it to give him more information, a closer look at the battlefield. aItas those mercenaries. We donat know for sure how many there are or if they have more spellcasters in reserve. I donat care much for surprises, and we certainly seem to be facing our share of them.a aIf we could catch them while theyare sleeping,a Ranson said, awith our dragoons on a full charge and your army dealing with the mercenaries, I feel confident the battle could be won easily.a aYouare telling me that you can defeat the Sylorean army if we just take care of their mercenaries?a Cyrus raised an eyebrow at the count. aAll right, but weare not going to plan on that. I will focus my army one hundred percent on dispatching the mercenaries, and then weall rally and break the Syloreans. Are they mostly on horseback or footmen?a aFootmen,a Ranson said. aBut they have a healthy contingent of mounted cavalry as well.a The count drew himself up, swelling with pride. aThey do decently well on horseback, but theyare not as well trained as our dragoons.a aLetas plan to hit them in the night and catch them by surprise,a Cyrus said, apreferably when theyare sleeping. No reason to make things harder on ourselves. If that doesnat work, weall have to improvise based on the ground weare on when the fight unfolds. No matter what, my army will target the mercenaries until weave removed that threat. Then weall join you in breaking the rest of the Sylorean army.a aThat seems to be as much as we can plan without knowing the landscape of where weall be fighting,a Ranson said. aWhen will you be ready to march?a aWithin the hour,a Cyrus said then looked around at his officers. aWeall ride back to the village in fifteen minutes, so gather your things and meet in the courtyard.a He heard Martaina clear her throat, and when he looked at her questioningly, she widened her eyes and stared him down, as though he were forgetting something. aOh. Make that a uh a twenty minutes, I think.a He caught a few stares and a raised eyebrow from Terian then nodded at them all and left, Martaina trailing behind him. aWhat?a he asked her when they had turned a corner.

aI just wanted to suggest you might allow enough time to say a farewell to the Baroness,a she said, now walking alongside him again. aAnd I wasnat sure how much time you wanted to allot for that.a aI donat think I have enough energy for a long goodbye,a he said, almost under his breath, drawing a chuckle from her. aBut better to not rush it, right?a aIf you care about her?a She looked at him, waited for the slight nod, and went on. aProbably best not to rush it, no, sir.a aRight you are,a he said, turning a corner. He thought of something then stopped in the corridor. Martainaas reflexes allowed her to stop with him, without missing so much as a step. She looked at him questioningly and he gave voice to his thought. aDo you have any more spare ventraamaq? I doubt very much that they have anything like it in this land, given their lack of magic.a She narrowed her eyes at him, annoyed. aI do need some for myself, you know.a aWhen?a Cyrus asked, amused. aDo you have someone that comes to join you at my door at night? Is it one of the guards, perhaps? The wall in the hallwaya"is it comfortable when your back is thrust against it?a aHa ha,a Martaina said without humor. She reached into a pouch at her belt and withdrew a small vial of dark liquid, roughly the color of blood. aWarn her about the poor taste or sheall likely be quite upset with you afterward.a Cyrus held up the vial between his thumb and forefinger and stared at the liquid within. aHow could I get more?a He caught a glare from her. aYou know, if I needed it.a She let out an exasperated sigh. aIf you keep up the same pace youave been going at, youall need it. I can gather the herbs that go into the solution, but only an enchanter can add the mystical component to make it work.a Cyrus stared at her. aCan Jaanda a?a aHeas always done it for me.a aThank you,a he said. aYour diligent service does not go unnoticed, I hope you realize that.a aAnd I hope you realize,a she said, somewhat irritably, athat thatas a weekas worth of protectiona"tell her to drink the whole thing, and sheall be safe from unintended quickening of your seed,a she leered at him with a raised eyebrow, aor anyone elseas, for that mattera"for seven days. After that, sheall need another dose, even on the days when her monthas blood is with hera"I have heard of women becoming with child while thinking they were safely immune during those times.a aNoted,a Cyrus said as they continued down the hallway. After a few seconds, he asked his next question. aWho else do you think sheall be getting seed from?a Martaina sighed. aHer? I doubt anyone, but itas impossible to tell, isnat it?a aI suppose,a Cyrus said. aFor example, I knew this woman who was married, presumably happily, yet there were hints that she might not be and might indeed find need for ventraamaq when she was far, far from her husband.a aTalking about anyone in particular?a Martainaas voice had gone cold, frosted even, enough to chill the hallway.

aI tend not to pass judgment,a Cyrus said, keeping his tone even. aBut it does make a body curious, especially someone whoasa"perhaps not a close friend, but more than an acquaintance, since this person tends to stand watch outside my room whenever I bed down in a strange keep.a aI also keep watch when youare by a campfire on your own, at the edge of the encampment.a The bitter tinge in Martainaas voice was gone, replaced instead by something else, something with a mournful quality to it. aAnd when you ride toward the edge of the army, away from the others. Or when you steal away, hoping no one will see you, so you can be by yourself. I watch out for you then, too.a aElven eyesight,a Cyrus said under his breath.

aI put it to good use.a Martainaas leather glove creaked as her hand reached behind her and ran down the length of her bow. aBut I watch out for you because Thad asked me to, before we left. I would have anyway, though perhaps not as zealously.a There was a moment of quiet as they rounded a corner, and Cyrus spoke. aYou keep his command faithfully, if he asked you to watch out for me.a She stopped. aBut not the other, is that what youare saying?a Cyrus, not so quick as Martaina, stopped a step later and turned back, saw her statuesque face show strain, her eyes slightly glazed. aI keep faithful to the request he made of me to watch out for you, but not faithful toa"a She choked back the words, fighting against emotion. aDamn it,a she said at a whisper.

aI told you,a Cyrus said. aIam not judgmental. I wonat say anything, buta"a aItas me.a Martaina held her hand up in front of her, pointing her index finger into the leather armor that covered her chest. aItas me. I know who I am. I am a master archer, and an expert tracker, and a brilliant swordfighter, one of the very best rangers at hunting through woods and chasing down prey over any land, but when it comes to keeping a husband aa She let her voice trail off. aWe canat all be good at everything, can we?a aNo,a Cyrus said. aNo one is perfect. Not at everything.a aThen how can I be so good at everything else,a she said, calm running over her, abut not a I can follow your orders. I can be a good soldier. But when it comes to being a a a faithful wife, or doing what a what society says I should a I come up short on every occasion. I can hunt down any prey on land, but I canat keep myself out of another manas arms when Iam away from my husband.a aThatas uh aa Cyrus blanched, unsure of what to say. aa I a I donat know whatas happened between you and Thada"a aNothing,a she said, the emotion gone again. aEverything was a fine a when we left. We get along well. When weare together, everything seems to work, but the minute I knew I was coming on this expedition and he wasnat aa She shrugged and another crack came through her facade, her face crumpled. aWhy am I telling you this? This isnat your concern. Youare about to lead an army into war a I donat know,a Martaina shook her head, aweave got a battle to attend to, though.a She forced a weak smile. aMy problems have been with me for a thousand years; I doubt theyare going anywhere in the next few days while we save this Kingdom.a aYeah,a Cyrus said, rubbing his face, running his hair back over his ears. aThey do seem to be in a spot of bother, donat they? Iad be less concerned about this fight if we knew how many of these Arkarian mercenaries are going to be in it.a aNo predicting that until weare in it,a she said. aBut however many there are, we still have them outnumbered.a aTrue,a Cyrus said, and continued the walk. aBut do we have them overpowered? Knocking entire swaths of men and horses flat to the ground with a single spell? That sounds like something Alaric could do, but not many other paladins Iave heard of.a aThat is a mite puzzling,a Martaina said, in step with him. aIf this paladin is so powerful, head be wanted in every guild in Arkaria. So why come over here?a Cyrus smiled, faintly. aWhy would anyone from Arkaria come here?a he asked, a trace of irony in his voice as they reached the door to his chambers. aRunning from something, Iad expect.a His smile evaporated, replaced by a pensive expression. aThe question isa"what is he running from?a Martaina did not answer, and Cyrus opened the door to the chambers, stepping inside to find the Baroness on a chair by the fire, a blanket covering her lower body, her riding clothes back on. aHello,a he said. When he reached her side he leaned down and kissed her, full and long, and when they broke he could see the wistful smile on her face. aGood morning.a She reached up and stroked his beard. aYou already said a fine good morning to me before you left, but Iall take another, if you feel up to it.a aIam afraid I donat at present,a Cyrus said with genuine regret. aI have to leave.a aI see.a Her fingers ran between the long hairs on this jaw. aPerhaps when you get back, if youave any energy left.a aItall be a couple days,a Cyrus said with a grin, aI suspect Iall be ready to repeat what we did last night by then. You may spoil me, getting me too used to this.a She kissed him, gently but quickly. aI could become quite used to it, though perhaps at a slower pace than last night.a He shrugged. aI have some lost time to make up for.a She withdrew her hand. aPerhaps when you get back, youall let me shave your face?a She blushed when she saw him look down. aNot that I donat enjoy the beard, but I like your face. I should like to see more of it, to feel your cheek against mine.a aPerhaps youad like to cut my hair as well?a He ran a hand through his long hair, to where it fell on his shoulders. aIave been letting it grow for near a year now, and I think Iave grown quite tired of it being this long.a aNo, I love your hair,a she said, running her fingers through it. aLeave it as it is.a aAs you wish,a he said. She kissed him again, and he returned it, but it was different than those from last nighta"more affectionate, less passionate, as though they both were acutely aware of the little time they had. aI should go,a he said once he broke from her.

aYou donat want me to come with you, I take it?a No accusation, only acknowledgment.

aItas not very safe for a non-combatant on the battlefield,a Cyrus said. aWhile I have no doubt you could be quite the fighter if you ever decided to dedicate yourself to the arts of war, I donat believe this is a time for teaching. Itas a place where mistakes can have unforgiving consequences.a aThen I will stay here.a She folded her hands on her lap, a look of peaceful contemplation serene on her face. aAnd await your return.a aAre you all right with that?a He stood, looking down on her with as much tenderness as he had.

aIt is the way of the women of Luukessia,a she said. aWe wait for the men when they go off to war. I may not be in this land much longer, but for now, this is still my way. I cannot go with you, for all you say is true, so I will wait, and bide my time, and stay here until you returna"on the day after tomorrow,a she said pointedly, looking him in the eyes.

aIall be back as quickly as I can.a aBe safe,a she said in a whisper. aI donat think I could bear the thought of you dying.a aI wouldnat concern yourself with it overmuch; itas never stopped me before.a Cyrus walked to the door and started to open it, then turned back to her. aOh, I almost forgot.a He slipped his hand beneath his armor and pulled out the vial. aDo you know what this is?a She stared at it, an amused smile on her face. aPoison?a aAh, no,a Cyrus said. aItas called ventraamaq.a Clouds drew in around her eyes and she adopted a wounded tone. aYou mean after only one night with me, you donat want me to bear your children?a She broke into a smile, her shoulders shaking from silent laughter.

aIad like to keep practicing,a Cyrus said as she got up and joined him at the door, slipping the vial out of his hand as she kissed him. aAs often as possible.a aYouall probably need quite a bit more of this, then.a She popped the cork on the vial and drank it down. aUgh.a She made a face, her eyes closed and lips puckered. aUgh, ugh, yuck. On second thought, perhaps bearing your offspring would be a preferable alternative.a She opened her eyes but they remained squinted and she dabbed at the corner of her mouth with her sleeve. aThat is vile.a He stared at her blankly. aAll the women take it. How bad can it be?a aBad enough that Iam pondering whether it might be better to simply remain celibate, as you have these last yearsa"a aBah!a Cyrus said, and leaned in and kissed her one last time before stepping out the door.

aKeep me in mind, while youare away?a She looked at him through the open door, serenity still hanging over her, a faint glow of contentment Cyrus hadnat seen from her before.

aIndeed I shall,a he said, aand Iall be counting the hours until my return.a aYou mean youall be counting the hours until next weare in bed together?a She gave him a sly look.

aI also enjoy our conversations.a aReally? Perhaps we could have a long, enduring one the moment you get back, the kind that lasts all night, and that doesnat involve any touching at all.a She smiled innocently. aHow does that sound?a aPainful,a he said, drawing a laugh from her. aCanat we do both?a aI think,a she said as she took his hand and kissed the knuckle of his gauntlet, athat that is indeed what lovers do.a aI have to go,a he said, bending in and kissing her again. aTruly, this time.a aThen go,a she said, still wearing the same smile, awith my blessing, and my thoughts, and all else I have to give you.a Cyrus shut the door, slowly, watching her as he did so, letting the handle roll in his hand, the metal squeaking against metal. He turned and found Martaina standing there, looking quite put out. aAre you finished now? Truly finished?a aI could go back in for a few more minutes if youad prefer aa Martaina whirled, letting her traveling cloak billow outward in an even circle as she did so. She started walking down the hall, and Cyrus took two quick running steps to catch up to her. aI take it you donat like the long goodbyes?a He saw her look daggers at him. aThatad be a no.a aI donat mind a long goodbye, but, ugh,a she said. aYoung love is so filled with sap and sweetness, it makes me ill.a aI could go for a little sap and sweetness right now,a Cyrus said. aI wonder if they can make flapjacks down in the kitchen?a aYour orders stipulate that we leave immediately, General.a aIam feeling a little peckish,a he said. aI think I might have worked up an appetite, you knowa"a Before he could finish his sentence, Martaina soft-tossed him an apple and he caught it, fumbling it a little but recovering before it slipped away. aThatall do for now, I suppose. But I do wonder if the kitchen could send something with usa"a They traipsed downstairs, Cyrus thinking about food the whole way. As he passed through the foyer, one of the servants bowed and handed him a small package wrapped in canvas, with a string tied around it. aProvisions for your journey,a the servant said and bowed again.

aWhat is with all this bowing?a Cyrus whispered as they walked out the front doors of Vernadam and descended the stairs. aYouad think there were gods wandering the halls around here.a aIave seen a god,a Martaina said, taking the reins of her horse from the servant who waited below. aNone of us looks much like him.a aDonat know how much bowing Iad do to him, anyway,a Cyrus said as he put his foot in a stirrup on Windrideras saddle and hoisted himself up. aHe was the ugliest sonofabitch Iave ever seen.a Martaina raised an eyebrow at him as she righted herself in the saddle. aAnd Bellarum is a handsome fellow by comparison? Am I remembering perhaps a different God of War than you?a aHeas not as ugly as Mortus was,a Cyrus said. aAt least, he didnat look that ugly when I saw him.a aWhen you saw him?a Martainaas face contorted in consternation. aWhen did you see the God of War?a Cyrus urged Windrider toward the gate, Martaina a few paces behind him. He ignored her question as Terian came alongside him. aDavidon,a the dark knight said. aItas a fine day for battle, is it not?a aThe battleas going to be tonight,a Cyrus said, gesturing to the Sanctuary members gathered at the gate to follow him. aWeare meeting the count and his men in the village?a Cyrus waited until Longwell nodded at him, then started out of the gate and turned back to Terian, who was on one side of him while Martaina had taken up the other flank. aAnd, yes, it will be fine,a he said, catching a glimpse of Aisling riding close to Mendicant, as far away from him as possible while remaining in the knot of Sanctuary forces. aIam particularly looking forward to swinging my sword around; itas been a while.a Martaina snickered and looked at him, amusement on her features. aInteresting choice of words. Iam surprised you have enough energy to swing a sword after all the time you spent a wagon racing with the Baroness on your bed last night.a Terian straightened. aWagon racing? Is that supposed to mean something?a His brow furrowed. aDid you rut with her last night, Cyrus?a Cyrus felt his cheeks burn with embarrassment. aA gentleman never tells.a aThatad maybe be of concern to me if Iad asked a gentleman, but instead I asked you. Did she bring the dagger to bed? Because after Vara, I can see that being the sort of thing youad be into, pain and whatnot.a aI didnat hear a dagger come into play,a Martaina said. aAlthough it may have on the fourth time; there was so much squealing it sounded like they were having a livestock auction in there.a aArenat you bound by an oath of silence or something?a Cyrus asked.

aMy gods, Cyrus,a Terian said. aI knew youad been deprived of female company all these years, buta"four times? Have you not been taking matters into your own hands?a He looked down. aI suppose the gauntlets make it somewhat colder, buta"a Terian shifted his gaze to look at Martaina, aFour times? Youare not exaggerating?a The elven ranger smirked and held up her hand, the four fingers extended, and she nodded.

aI guess itas too much, asking an elven woman to be quiet,a Cyrus said, glaring at Martaina.

aI didnat say it,a Martaina replied, her eyebrow raised. aAnd it sounds like you might be picking up some local color, sira"like their attitude toward women.a aNot true,a Cyrus said. aI made sure my partner crossed the finish line each time. I even let her ride on top of the wagon once.a Terian smirked at him. aSo is this the end of the dour and sour Cyrus? Have we finally banished the thoughts of Queen Frostheart to the nether realms of Mortusas tower?a Terianas smirk turned into a frown. aOr wherever that giant oddity went when he died.a aI donat know,a Cyrus said soberly, the thoughts of the blond-haired elf returning for the first time that day, abut I think weare on our way.a aGood,a Terian said, abecause you were really insufferablea"boring and whatnota"for the last couple months.a The dark knight smiled, but there was a malicious edge in his voice. aI felt bad for you. Honestly, it made me a little sick inside. I almost felt like if you died, itad be a mercy killing.a aIt might have been,a Cyrus said. aBut weare moving past that now. And this is no time to think about a her.a He blinked. aActually, either of them, for now. I need to focus on this battle. After that a I guess weall see.a aWhat happens after that?a Martaina asked.

aIf we crush the Sylorean army, I suppose we go home,a Cyrus said. aIf we just splinter them, weall probably have to pursue them north for a while, help break them so this doesnat happen again in the near future.a aAnd if we lose?a Terianas smirk had returned.

aThen I suspect weall have bigger problems to worry about than whether Iam over Vara,a Cyrus said with a smile of his own.

aDealing with the odd smell that hangs on my chainmail is a bigger concern to me than whether youave embraced sanity and returned to the realm of normal womenfolk,a Terian said. aBut all the same, you were one sour bastard after she twisted on you.a aLook out there,a Martaina said, pointing her finger down the hill, past the town. The army of Sanctuary was assembled in the streets, already facing in the direction they were set to march. Beyond them, out in the fields, another army waited. On one side of the pasture were thousands of men on foot, at least five-fold what Sanctuary had. Across the field, and not nearly so well ordered, were thousands more on horseback; so many that Cyrus could not hope to reasonably count them all.

aWhere the hell were those guys when we came into town yesterday?a Terian asked.

aIam guessing they were set up to the north,a Cyrus said. aProbably positioned between where the enemy is coming from and Vernadam.a Curatio rode up as they started around the switchback, heading down the path. The sky overhead had taken on some clouds, and the sun seemed to be trying to shine through them, but dimly. Cyrus caught a hint of dust as the wind blew across his face, the dry, earthy smell of dirt that came off the hill behind them.

aYou ready?a Curatio said as he slowed his horse to ride next to Terian. aHead clear? Prepared for battle?a aQuite so,a Cyrus said.

aAnd was the Baroness still aglow when you left her?a Curatioas usual infectious smile had been curiously absent of late, but Cyrus saw the tug of it on the elfas mouth, even as he looked straight ahead, giving Cyrus only a view of the healeras profile.

aBeen doing a little eavesdropping, Curatio?a Cyrus cocked an eyebrow at him.

aIt wouldnat take much eavesdropping to hear your conversation about awagon rides,a even if I hadnat been quartered next door to you last night.a They rode into the village. The army of Sanctuary was already assembled in formation, neatly ordered rows beginning at the square and leading all the way down the main avenue out of town. aIall need to talk with Odellan and Longwell as weare riding,a Cyrus said as he rode down the street, the musk of animals filling the air around them, the hooves clopping. aNo need to delay our departure, especially since it appears Count Ranson is already waiting for us.a Cyrus rode down the line, the others falling in behind him, leading the procession past the rows of his army. He heard hundreds of greetings and acknowledgments of his presence, and smiled, trying to wave at as many of them as he could.

aYou might want to cool it off with the excess enthusiasm,a Martaina stage whispered behind him. aYouare so damned happy this morning, theyare bound to wonder where their real general has gone.a aI prefer going to war under the command of a testy general,a Terian said as Longwell and Odellan fell in behind them. aThereas something unseemly about storming into a fray of swords and arrows, blood and bile, with a guy who looks so damned happy.a Cyrus rolled his eyes and rode on, past the villagers lined up on both sides of the streets. I wonder if they know how close their Kingdom is to defeat? I wonder if it matters? His thoughts were dark as he rode to the end of the line and the edge of the village. Where else could they go?

The steady sound of hoofbeats carried him forward as Cyrus led the procession out of town; ahead, Count Ranson waited on horseback with Odau Genner and a few of the other familiar faces head seen back at the castle.

aGood day, Lord Davidon,a Ranson said as they closed. aMy army is assembled and ready to move.a aWell, then,a Cyrus said, alet us not hesitate any longer.a aAs you are the leader of this force,a Ranson said, ayouall be proceeding ahead of us, I trust?a aAye,a Cyrus said, and felt a stray droplet of rain splatter off his armor, touching his cheek as it splashed. aI trust Sir Longwell can guide us.a aIall be accompanying you as well,a Odau Genner said with a nod, aif thatas all right with you, General.a aAlways room at the front of battle, less so at the rear,a Cyrus said, grinning at Genner in a manner that was not returned. He turned to the army following behind him. aAll right, Sanctuary, letas move out!a

Chapter 17.

The ride was long, and by sundown Cyrus was weary of the journey again. They passed into woods called the Forest of Waigh, and the ground become uneven around them as they followed a road north. The trees were bunched close together, moss hanging from the branches, blotting out the sky at the highest levels of the boughs. Raindrops still made their way through, however, and a steady drizzle kept the expedition cool as they made their march.

After the sun went down, the rain seemed to come in torrents, wave after wave of water sluicing down on them, reminding Cyrus of the time head been caught in a riverboat during a storm.

aHa ha,a Terian crowed as Cyrus passed him after inspecting the wet and weary column. aNot quite so happy now, are you, Mr. I-Just-Experienced-The-Long-Forgotten-Thrill-Of-My-Crotch-Last-Night-And-Canat-Wait-For-More!a Cyrus ignored him and they plodded on through the gathering darkness. The storm went on into the night, a driving rain that threw sheets of water onto Cyrusas armor, the heaviest downpour that they had experienced since arriving in Luukessia.

aOur pace has slowed,a Longwell said as he and Odellan rode next to Cyrus. aUnless the rain lets up soon, we wonat be on the Fields of Gareme until long after midnight.a The dragoon looked at Cyrus, almost cringing from the fury of the rain pounding his helm. aAnd we wonat be in a position to hit their army until after sunrise.a Cyrus cursed. aI guess we should have left last night.a aIam certain theyall have scouts, sir,a Longwell said. aTheyall see us long before we see them; we need lanterns to travel in this dark, but a single scout doesnat.a aWe have pickets out as well,a Cyrus said. aIf weare lucky, perhaps theyall catch any enemy scouts before they get close enough to spot us.a aDoubtful, sir,a Odellan said, raising his voice over the pouring rain battering their armor. aA scout could pass within yards of us without us noticing, but theyare not likely to miss an entire army tromping by.a aI feel obligated to warn you in advance, sir,a Longwell said, athe dragoons will not be nearly as effective fighting on the plains after this weather.a aWhat?a Cyrus stared at Longwell, questioning.

aThe rain will turn the fields into mud,a Longwell said. aThe dragoons will be at poor advantage if the army of Syloreas holds true to their usual tactics and carries spears. In a full out charge, dragoons can break through lines of spears, though with some difficulty.a He grimaced, his eyes hidden in the shadow his helm cast over them. aIn this, it becomes unlikely they will be able to.a aDamn,a Cyrus said. aWhat about bowmen? Surely they must have some.a aBows are not nearly so well loved here as youad find in Arkaria,a Longwell said with regret. aThey are neither as accurate nor as useful at range, and as such we have archers, but youad be in a much better position relying on the Sanctuary rangers to fulfill any role youad have in mind for my fatheras bowmen.a aThatas to both our advantage and detriment, then,a Cyrus said. aAt least we wonat have to advance under volleys of arrows, but it would be awfully nice to be able to shower them with a hail of them.a aWith the accuracy of our rangers,a Odellan said, awe could use our archers to target their officers, perhaps? And these magic-wielding mercenaries that are of such concern?a aYes,a Cyrus said. aAnd weall be turning loose some spellcasters of our own. I doubt that they have a wizard.a He smiled grimly. aThat bodes ill for them.a They rode on through the wet and the night, the rain coming down around them with all the fury of a skyas rage turned loose upon the earth. The ground turned to mud, the sky became black, and the lamps that were carried by the army forced Cyrus and the others on horseback to ride alongside the column, straining to see in the dark as the water that fell through the trees above continued ever on.

aThe troops are cold,a Odellan said, forcing Cyrus to turn around and look for the elf. He was a horse-length behind Cyrus, trying futilely to turn his face from the rain. aThey could use a rest and they wonat be of much use to us in a fight if they arrive fatigued.a Cyrus nodded. aColumn, halt!a he called out, and heard his cry taken up by others down the stream of endless soldiers that vanished into the black behind him. Curatio and Jaanda appeared out of the darkness on the other side of their troops, riding their horses to join Cyrus and Odellan.

aCanat see a thing,a Jaanda said, his hair soaked and his deep blue skin fading into the night. aThe rain has cut our visibility to nothing.a aRemember that time in the Realm of Darkness,a Cyrus said with a smile, awhen Curatio lit up the sky?a aI could do that here, I suppose,a the healer said with a wry smile, abut wead be giving away our position to anyone with eyes; and I canat be sure over the rain, but I suspect thereas enemies about.a aThere are,a Martaina said, riding up with Terian behind her. Cyrus saw something in her hands, a rope, and she tugged on it as her horse slowed, and Cyrus saw it trail to something dragged behind her, something cutting a wake through the mud on the path. aI caught this one hiding in the trees.a Cyrus looked at the object at the end of the rope. It moaned, a low, plaintive cry, and he realized it was a muddy human, a man bound by the hands, stretched prone across the ground. He raised his face from where it had come to rest in the mud and groaned. Cyrus could see some blood dripping in the low light, mixing with the sopping wet dirt that coated him.

aIs he capable of speaking?a Cyrus asked.

aI can fix what ails him, if youad like,a Curatio said.

aPlease,a the man croaked. aPlease a it hurts, so much.a aOh,a Martaina said and dismounted. She bent over the man and reached down. He screamed, a long, agonized howl, and she came back up with an arrow. aAlmost forgot about this. I had to hobble him so he wouldnat get away.a She scowled. aTracking is a real bitch with all this rain washing away footprints.a Cyrus guided Windrider over to the man, and peered down at his dirty face from horseback. It was impossible to see any detail of the man, only mud that covered his face and long hair. He appeared to be wearing a tattered cloak, and if his shirt and breeches had been new before Martaina dragged him along, it was now impossible to tell. aMy name is Cyrus Davidon,a he said. aAnswer my questions and my healer will soothe all your pains.a aI a I wonat,a the man breathed. aTorture me all you want, Iall never tell you a thing.a aI believe you wouldnat,a Cyrus said, staring into the manas eyes; they were wide, but defiant. aYouave got a good-sized hole in you, youave just been dragged a considerable ways, and youare still so full of spit and whiskey that youad tell me to go to the hells eighteen times over, even if I cut off your leg. I admire your spirit. Curatio, heal this man.a aUh aa The healer sputtered. aAll right.a He muttered under his breath and Cyrus saw the glow of a healing spell encompass the wounded captive.

aIs that better?a Cyrus asked, soothing.

aYes,a the captive said, momentarily losing his defiant tone. aBut I still wonat talk.a aI didnat expect you to,a Cyrus said. aI just wanted to make sure you didnat bleed to death while my enchanter cracks your mind open like a ripe gourd. Jaanda?a Cyrus turned and looked at the dark elf, who nodded. aTake him.a Jaanda closed his eyes and stretched his hand out at the man, who recoiled and turned from where head been sitting upright, and scrambled to crawl away. He made it almost a foot before a blue light swirled around his head and he went slack, on all fours in the mud. He swayed, then put a hand on the stirrup of Martainaas horse and pulled to his feet, turning to face Cyrus, a dazed look in his eyes.

aWhatas the word, Jaanda?a Cyrus looked at the enchanter then to the captive, who stood stonefaced, staring straight ahead.

aHeas a scout from their army, all right,a Jaanda said, his eyes closed. aBad news. Theyave encamped at the edge of the forest. Theyave traversed the entire plains to be ready aa The dark elf sighed. aThey had planned to ambush us when we arrived tomorrow. Theyare already set up to hit us with a charge the moment we emerge from the forest.a aDammit,a Cyrus said. aThe trees are too thick to allow us to move off the path in any numbers.a aThat was the plan,a Jaanda said. aIf they could lock down the army, keep it from getting mobile on the plains, the dragoons would lose their advantage.a He shook his head sheepishly. aHard to do much with an army of horseman all trapped in a line.a aExcellent strategy on their part,a Odellan said. aIt does rather complicate things for us.a aAsk him how many mercenaries they have and what types,a Cyrus said, patting Windrider on the side of his neck. The horseas mane was soaked.