aIam more than a match for you, Partus,a Terian said coolly. aI just never did like you is all, so Iam taking this opportunity to get a few digs in for all the joy you gave me back when we were Alliance officers together.a aI hear a lot of talk from you, Lepos,a Partus said, his ruddy complexion dark, abut Iam without my hammer, your swordas at my throat and your wizardas got a spell preventing me from sending you back to Arkaria in one good jump. Why donat you just be a good lad and hand me my weapon and Iall empty your head with it, just like I did your friend there.a He pointed to Cyrus, his small eyes fixed on Terian.

aEnough,a Cyrus said. aBind him, gag him, and put a rock in there first so he canat move his tongue around. We donat need him hitting us with a spell if he can cast sublingually.a Cyrus smiled. aBetter still, strap his hands around his neck; if he wants to cast a spell he can take his own head off and solve our problem of what to do with him.a aWhat about this thing?a Aisling was on her hands and knees in the grass, next to the creature. Cyrus blinked in surprise. He hadnat even noticed her there.

aWhat about it?a aMaybe we should bring it with us?a She ran a finger along the flesh of its arm. aI know there are some strange and fanciful creatures in the world, but this is unlike anything Iave seen. Might be worth taking a closer look at with a dagger. Especially,a her eyes flashed, aif there are any more of them out there.a aI donat see reason to concern ourselves overmuch,a Cyrus said, abut better to be overprepared than under, I reckon. Bind it, too, just in case, and bring it along on the back of your horse.a aMy horse?a Aisling said, looking at him with equal parts disbelief and offense. aWhy mine?a aBecause as the brilliant originator of the plan,a Cyrus said with a smile, ayou get to carry it out.a He sniffed. aAlso? That thing smells.a aGreat,a Aisling muttered under her breath. aBecause I need more reasons to help you find me unappealing.a Cyrus ignored her, whistling instead to Windrider, who came to a halt beside him. He patted the horse and climbed up in the saddle. aMendicant,a Cyrus said, and waited for the goblin to appear out of the clump of the Sanctuary party, which had gathered behind him, between where they stood and the hill that he had charged down, ado you think your horse can bear the weight of you and our prisoner?a aIf we donat run him too hard,a the goblin warned. aItas been a long day, though, and weall be needing to rest the horses soon.a aItas an hour or so back to the edge of the swamp and a little farther to the crossing,a Cyrus said. aLetas make camp once weave met up with the rest of our army, give our horses a night of rest.a He frowned, adjusting himself in the saddle and feeling a dozen aches and pains. aAnd ourselves as well. Weall make our way back to Vernadam tomorrow.a They took a few minutes to get situated and give the horses ample time to drink from a small stream of fresh water, and then started back. The journey took hours, and seemed slower than the trip in, the party mostly quiet from the fatigue of traveling through the night on the evening before.

Cyrus found himself riding next to Aisling and Martaina at one point, as the two trackers attempted to steer them clearly back toward the plains. aI never did get a chance to ask you,a Cyrus said to Aisling, startling the dark elf, awhat was your impression of the Galbadien rulers when we were at Vernadam?a Her eyes became snakelike as she studied him. aI came to make my report and found you a otherwise occupied.a aYou say that like itas a curse,a Cyrus said mildly. aYouave been badgering me for two years to loosen up, and now I have. Perhaps itas a sour taste in your mouth, some envy that springs from deep within.a Aisling let out a sharp exhalation of breath, almost like a hiss, and rolled her eyes. aYou presume too much. Just because Iave been honest about my interest in you, donat assume that Iam so petty and insecure that I canat handle even the thought of you pleasuring yourself with another woman.a She held her head high as she spoke to him. aIave offered in the past to bed you and another woman at the same time, though something tells me that the Baroness wouldnat be much interested in that.a aFair assumption,a Cyrus said. aBut still, I point out, your reaction to this turn of events is rather aa He thought about it, trying to find a diplomatic turn of phrase, aa sharp. Less than pleasant.a aI beg your pardon, my Lord of Perdamun,a Aisling said, bending at the waist in a graceful bow that saw her nearly fold double yet not lose her balance on horseback. aMy intention was not to be acute in my response to you. If I was, I apologize. Perhaps I was merely dismayed that after so many times offered, it seemed that you might finally be coming arounda"and you did, but with someone else.a Her eyes flashed again as she stared at him, and he caught a flippant toss of her white hair. aForgive me for not quickly adapting to the new state of things.a Some of the acid was leeched out of her words, but enough remained that Cyrus felt the burn of it.

aI a canat say I feel nothing for you. I am warming to you, but aa he pulled back, not wanting to finish his sentence.

aYou felt more for her?a Aisling did not bother to hide the bitterness; she wore it plainly. aI canat fault you for that; itas not as though you can control the direction of your feelings. But it does hurt.a aI have to ask,a Cyrus said, feeling the pull of a question within. aWhat is it about me that draws you so? You tried to seduce me, even though you knew I was in love with Vara. Now Iam with another woman, and still aa She blanched and he stopped speaking.

There was a pregnant pause before she spoke. aYou asked, and in your question you have your answer.a He thought about it for a moment. aI donat understand.a aYouare guileless,a she said with a sigh. aThereas no deception within you when it comes to personal matters. In battle youare cunning when need be, but youare straightforward in all elsea"you go right at what you want, no treachery, no trickery.a Cyrus raised an eyebrow at her. aWhat about Vara? I danced around her for ages.a aNot exactly.a She steadied herself on the horse. aThat wasnat guile, that was a form of cowardice.a aI donat know whether I should be offended by that or not.a Aisling shrugged. aYou didnat think you had a real chance with her. When it became obvious shead warmed enough to you, you tried. Good effort, but it would appear she needed more time. Thatas not on you, thatas on her. You threw yourself into the path of a god, ready to die for her. Itas hardly your fault that she became fixated more on what shead do after she lost you than what shead get from being with you.a aThat a was sweetly poetic,a Cyrus said. aBut I think you give me too much credit.a aNope,a she said, voice flat. aUnless you didnat jump in front of Mortusas hand, the credit is yours. You were willing to die for her; she was unwilling to live past your death. Kind of a peculiar irony, but there it is. Not all that surprising, though; human and elven ideas about death are dramatically different. Probably has something to do with your lifespan.a aNot for me it doesnat,a Cyrus said. aFor me itas training and doctrine. The God of War doesnat suffer cowardicea"at least, not on the battlefield,a he said, face flushing at the recall of Aislingas earlier mention of his cowardice. aThat means committing to the fight, above all else, including oneas life.a aI donat hear you talk much about your religion,a Aisling said, matter-of-factly. aOne might conclude youare either not terribly faithful or youare just not much of an evangelist.a aFollowing the path of the God of War is who I am,a Cyrus said, a little miffed. aI donat evangelize because no one wants to hear about the glory of battle, the sacrifice of blood on the altar of combat. Most Arkarians consider that savage behavior.a aI wouldnat mind hearing about it sometime,a Aisling said, abut I doubt youall get me to change my lacksadaisical worship of Terrgenden to a lacksadaisical worship of Bellarum.a Cyrus chuckled. aNow whoas the unfaithful one?a She smiled. aI never said I was faithful. But I would say Iam worth it.a He laughed again. aWell, Iam not sure I am.a aFrom what I heard the other night, you are,a Aisling said, a little regretfully. aAnd what girl wouldnat want a man whoas willing to die for them? What you did that day in the Realm of Death confirmed everything Iad felt about you from the beginning. Vara is more the fool for letting you slip away.a aItas kind of you to say.a Cyrus steered Windrider out of the swamp as they reached the edge of the plain. The horse whinnied in gratitude when they reached dry land and Cyrus patted him on the back of the neck. aSoon, old boy. Youall get unsaddled and brushed out, and weall get you taken care of. Just a little farther back to the crossing.a aSir.a Longwell drifted toward Cyrus, Partus trussed up and gagged on the back of his horse. aNow that weave won the battle, my father will want us to stay for a spell, to enjoy at least a moon of feasting and celebration for winning the war.a aWinning the war?a Cyrus looked at him in askance. aWe broke one of Syloreasas armies, but surely they must have more manpower somewhere. This army was hardly the be-all, end-all.a aI suspect they do have more, yes,a Longwell said. aIt was a weak offering, and uncharacteristic of Unger not to have led the battle himself from the front. For him not to be present at all is simply bizarre.a Cyrus shook his head. aI canat imagine he thought that was wise strategy, sending only that many and no more. Unless perhaps Actaluere drew him away with an attack, I would have thought head throw everything he had at this fight; after all, he was inches from defeating your Kingdom. Thatas hardly the moment to pull back and be cautious.a Cyrus thought about it. aIs it possible he brought another army around wide and flanked us, attacking Vernadam?a Longwell thought about if for a moment and then shrugged. aI canat see what good it would do him. He might conquer the town, but in order to take the castle, head need time, which he wouldnat get if we beat his other army in the field. Head get flanked while trying to mount a siege of the most impregnable fortress in the land.a Longwell shrugged again. aNot the wisest course, and Briyce Unger is no fool. No, more likely heas into something else, though I canat imagine what.a A fearful wind was whipping across the plains now and it brushed through Cyrusas hair with all the enthusiasm of a cat at play with yarn. The green grasses came up to the knee of his horse, and the smell of the animals, wet with the travel through the swamp, followed them. He could hear the chatter behind him and the rustling of the grass in the breeze, as well as the occasional whinny. The plains lay uneven all the way to the horizon, and Cyrus could see the river ahead.

A thought occurred to him and he turned back to Longwell. aYour father greeted you with great enthusiasm when we arrived the day before yesterday.a Longwellas jaw tightened under his helm. aAye. I expect he was quite pleased that I returned, especially seeing how I was at the head of an army that could save his realm. Even as a distracted a as he is nowadays, it had not escaped my fatheras notice that Syloreas was about to conquer his Kingdom.a aBut you left,a Cyrus said. aYouare the heir to the throne, arenat you? But you went far, far away. You must have gone for a reason.a aI did,a Longwell said. aMy father and I had a great disagreement. My mother has been gone for many years, and she and I always got on better than my father and I did.a The dragoonas tension was obvious even through his armor. aMy father thought Iad come under unsavory influences.a aWhat?a Cyrus did a double take. aYouave never acted with anything but honor for as long as Iave known you.a Longwell gave Cyrus a slow, subtle nod of acknowledgment. aIave always tried to; but it led me to defiance of my fatheras will. In his eyes, there is no greater sin. It led me out of his house, out of his Kingdom, and out of this land, as I couldnat see myself fighting for Actaluere or Syloreas.a He puckered his lips in distaste. aThat much a traitor I am not. Now, in his hour of need, I return. Let us hope that buys me back into his good graces for longer than a fortnight.a The dragoon shook his head as if to clear it. aIt matters not. We shall find ourselves in good company and my father will throw an impressive feast.a aI could use some time to rest after this journey,a Cyrus said. aTwo months to get here, a nasty battle along the way, one big fight, and a little hunt for a dwarf,a he waved toward Partus, whose wide-hipped rump was facing Cyrus off the back of Mendicantas horse, aand weare done. Some feasting and celebrating doesnat seem out of line. Our people have earned ita"especially given how far theyave walked,a he said with a smile. Windrider whinnied. aAnd horses, too, of course.a The river appeared before them, broad and dark in the falling light, and within an hour they were crossing the bridge, the Galbadien army already encamped on the other side. Tents had been set up, large ones, and there was some manner of dinner being served from the fires. A wagon train had come with the army, giving them more sustenance than conjured bread and water. Cyrus saw Sanctuary army members, looking far different than the Galbadiens in their distinctive livery.

They rode into the camp in the gathering twilight, cheers from the men, cups hoisted into the air in their honor. The men of the Galbadien army, dragoons and footmen all, came forth to see the dwarven mercenary who had caused them such fear paraded along on the back of their princeas horse. That thought crackled across Cyrusas mind as they walked in a procession toward the area where it appeared Sanctuaryas army had concentrated.

aYouare the prince of this land, arenat you?a Cyrus asked Longwell, who was waving obligingly to the troops they passed, and receiving a great many toasts of hoisted mugs and shouted promises to buy him ale when they returned to town.

aYes,a the dragoon said bitterly. aWhy do you ask?a aIt just occurred to me, thatas all.a Cyrus steadied himself as the crowd closed in on them, cheering louder. aIad never thought of you as a prince before, and I didnat know if someday you were going to be ruler here, or if you had siblings.a aNo siblings,a he said glumly. aJust me. But as for ruling the Kingdom a that remains to be seen. Blood will out, but my father designates his heir as he sees fit. I donat know that I want the crown,a he said, keeping his voice low.

aIad say youare favored for it right now.a Cyrus took in the steady chant around them, a low but rising one of Longwellas last name. aJust going by the words of the fighting men.a Longwell let a smile slip through his glumness. aItas their respect I wanted all along; my father would have had me be a court lackey.a He grasped the lance that stuck vertically out of the holder on the back of his saddle. aIt was I who wanted to be on the battlefield. Just as he was, once.a They paraded about, on a slow path to where Cyrus saw Odellan in his distinctive armor. The elf waited for them, arms crossed, a smile upon his face as they approached. Count Ranson waited with him, along with Odau Genner and a few of the other members of the Galbadien war council Cyrus had seen at the dinner and strategy meeting. Cyrus dismounted and grabbed the gagged and bound Partus, lifting him off Mendicantas horse and setting him upon the ground. The dwarfas legs were tied together, allowing only shuffling steps. Cyrus nudged him to move foward toward Count Ranson.

aWell done,a the Count said, delivering a slow but sincere clap that was picked up by the Sanctuary and Galbadien soldiers that surrounded them. Large tents were stationed in a rough circle around them, the biggest of them open to the air, with only a roof to cover the insides from the elements. A few tables were within, along with the remains of some dinner that reached Cyrusas nose; the smell of meat was unmistakable and made his mouth water after two days of salted pork and insubstantial bread. aTruly, youave done wonders here. Defeated the mercenaries, helped us break the Sylorean army in a crushing defeat. Wondrous,a the count smiled. aTruly wondrous.a aAnd this was all their army?a Cyrus pushed Partus forward again.

aNo,a the count said. aThey had another one that was moving south, a host more than double the size of this one, but according to our scouts and messengers, itas turned north, back to Syloreas.a The count scratched his cheek. aWe received word by carrier pigeon that they crossed back over their own border last night and that the royal convoy with Briyce Unger and his generals was riding hard to catch up. Theyave started to abandon some of the southernmost keeps that theyad taken in our territory.a He shook his head. aThey could have put up a much nastier fight here if theyad shown up with everything, but it seems something else is going on; itas not like Briyce Unger to stop fighting in the middle of a war.a aSounds worrisome,a Cyrus said. aIad suggest you ask this one,a he pointed to Partus, who leered at him out of the corner of his eyes, abut I donat know that head spill it.a aHeall tell you anything you want to know,a Terian said, striding forward off his horse and clapping Partus on the back with such force that the dwarf was nearly knocked onto his face. aHeas a mercenary now. All you have to do is pay him a fat sack of gold, and heall do whatever you want, including betraying his former masters.a Terian unslung his sword and rested it, edge down, on Partusas armor, the blade only inches from the side of his neck. aOr maybe just the thought of saving his skin will be enough to get the old dwarf talking.a aTerian,a Cyrus said. aWeall be handing the prisoner over to Count Ranson. Itall be up to him how he wants to handle him.a aAs I understand it,a Ranson said, a look of concern upon his weathered features, ayouall need magic to contain this one.a He waited for Cyrus to nod, then shook his head. aNo, it wonat do. You can keep him. Just get him off our shores; kill him or take him back with you, it makes no mind to me. If you mean to leave him, then letas kill him and be done with it now.a aTempting,a Terian said with a wide grin, looking down at Partus, whose eyes were slightly wider but spiteful, and who wasnat saying a word. aVery tempting. I could find myself enjoying an execution.a aNot today,a Cyrus said. aLetas have a talk first. Nyad,a he looked back to find the wizard behind him. aIall need a cessation spell, if you could, please.a She nodded, and began to cast the spell. Her eyes rolled back in her head, a light green glow seemed to emanate from around her body, giving her red robe a peculiar aura. She nodded once at Cyrus and continued to speak low words under her breath, keeping the spell in effect.

Cyrus pulled the gag out of Partusas mouth, and the dwarf spat the last of the oversized rag out with a choked noise that turned into a cough. When he was finished, he glared at Terian. aAfter all weave been through, dark knight, Iad have expected a little more kindness from you when you stuffed that in.a aAfter all weave been through,a Terian looked at the dwarf with a raised eyebrow, ayou should have been grateful I didnat slit your throat before putting you on the horse.a aEnough niceties,a Cyrus said, pushing Partusas shoulder enough to cause the dwarf to look up at him with a smoldering rage in his eyes. aWhereas the rest of the Sylorean army heading?a aNorth,a Partus said, his eyes flicked down in uncaring. aWhat, you didnat hear him a minute ago?a He jerked his head toward the count. aMight wanna clean your ears out.a Terian lifted a knee and hit the dwarf perfectly in the back. Partusas armor had been removed before they had bound him, and the dwarf let out a sharp cry and fell to his knees; Terianas hit had perfectly landed on the tender spot above Partusas kidney. The dwarf sucked air in through gritted teeth, his hands still bound behind him.

aTerian, enough,a Cyrus said, placing a hand on the dark elfas breastplate, barely touching him but prepared to hold him back. aHeas a smartass; itas not as though we havenat dealt with those every day of our lives.a aHeas a Goliath smartass,a Terian seethed, aand youad do well to remember it. Theyare treacherous, traitorous blighters who have no issue with sticking a blade in your exposed back the moment itas turned. If he sold out his own guild to Goliath for a few pieces of silver, you can imagine what head do to the likes of us for much less.a aI didnat sell out my own guild,a Partus said, wrenching himself off his knees and back to his feet. aTime came that the Daring was too set against moving forward, I moved on. Hardly my fault others followed with me. Itas not as though they came with me when I left Goliath, did they? Save for the few you lot just left rotting on the battlefield here.a aI can see youare real broken up about their deaths,a Terian said, now leaning against Cyrusas placed hand. aIf we left you to your overwhelming grief for just a few more years, we might even see a single tear.a aIam not the excessively sentimental kind,a Partus said sullenly. aUnlike some people I know, I deal in the real world; and I donat know if youave noticed, but sometimes in our line of work, things take an occasional wrong turn down a bad alley. Those blokes knew what they were into when we signed up for this. So did I. If you mean to take my head off for what weave done, Iad take it as a kindness if youad get to it and spare me, please, this sanctimonious, holier-than-thou sermon from the dark knight.a He straightened. aI think Iave had quite enough of being lectured on virtue by you, Terian Lepos.a aWhatas that supposed to mean?a Terian asked, and Cyrus felt the very slight pressure against his hand from Terianas breastplate slacken.

aIt means Aurastra,a Partus said with a sneer.

Cyrus watched as Terianas pupils seemed to dilate before his eyes, like pinpricks of color lost in the light. He felt the subtle shift in the dark knightas footing through the plate armor, sensed something was amiss before it happened, and a shudder ran through his arm as Terian drew his sword and let out a shout, pulling the blade over his head.

Before the dark elf had a chance to get his balance, Cyrus lunged, kicking Terianas legs from underneath him. They landed with a clatter of armor as Cyrus seized the dark knightas sword hand by the wrist, holding it up as he crashed to the ground on top of Terian. Cyrus shoved down with his weight and strength, pinning the dark knight into place. aEnough! Youare not killing him.a aOh yes, I am,a Terian said, not even bothering to strain against Cyrus. The dark knight glared at Cyrus with frosty eyes. aIt may not happen today, or tomorrow, or even this month or year, but something you need to realize, Davidona"it will happen. If I mean to kill a man, he will die.a Terian jerked his hand away from Cyrus, and slowly slid his sword back into the scabbard as Cyrus stood up and proffered a hand to help Terian up. aNothing stops that. Itas just a matter of timing, thatas all. But youare right,a Terian said, hauling himself back to his feet. aItas not today.a Cyrus watched Terian out of the corner of his eye but also saw the smug Partus send Terian a little wave. The dark knight didnat react, at least not visibly, though Cyrus could swear he felt Terianas glare burning a hole into his back. aIam not even going to ask you what Aurastra means,a Cyrus said, his attention back on Partus.

aYou should, itas an interesting tale,a the dwarf said.

aI want to know about the Sylorean army.a Cyrus kept his gaze trained on the dwarf, though he spared a glance at Count Ranson, who watched the proceedings with cool disinterest mingled with a certain disdain. Heas not impressed with the discipline of my army right now, thatas for sure. Neither am I, when you come to it. I just had a man try and slay a prisoner in front of me and I had to take him down myself. Not a great sign; at least I got the result they were looking for.

aYeah, it went north,a Partus said. aWe split far up the countryside from here. They were supposed to hit country towns, plunder and pillage and the like, lay siege to some keeps and then meet us at Harrowas Crossing for the battle with you lot, but a couple nights ago the Kinga"Unger, the bloke who hired mea"gets a messenger from his capital. Something happened up there, something bad. Weare in the middle of dining on some spoils from a keep wead broken down the night earlier, and he takes his officers and loads up and buggers off in the middle of a meal.a Partus spat on the ground. aLeft one of his lessers in charge, didnat say much of what it was about. Didnat much matter, neither, rolling over Vernadam was supposed to be a foregone conclusion, that we were going to crush your army at Harrowas Crossing even with our reduced numbers and waltz right in or blockade the place if necessary. War over.a Partus let out a rough snort. aPromises not worth the warm air theyare breathed into.a aSo what was it about?a Cyrus spoke and Partus turned to look at him; previously the dwarf had been addressing his comments to the Count.

aTold you, I donat know.a The dwarf shrugged his shoulders.

aYou said he adidnat say much of what it was about,aa Cyrus repeated. aWord for word.a The dwarf let a half-smile curl his lips, a snide one, as though he knew head been caught. aI did say that, didnat I? Well, he didnat say much, and what he did say didnat make a bit of sense, really, not to me at least. Then he and his band buggered off before he went and explained it.a Cyrus rolled his eyes. aEnough drama. What did he say?a Partus met Cyrusas eyeroll with one of his own. aHe said, atheyare coming.aa The dwarf held his bound hands in front of him. aThatas it. And then he got on a horse and scampered off to the north with his little wagon train in tow, as though Mortus himself was following behind him.a Cyrus concentrated, looking at Count Ranson. aThat mean anything to you?a Ranson shrugged. aNothing. Iam left with the obvious question of who atheya are. Actaluereas army, possibly?a aI doubt it,a Partus said, with a slight snicker. aBecause you see, youare missing it. It doesnat matter, the bit he said. Because thatas not the news. Itas how he said it that matters. That and what he did afterwards.a Count Ranson sighed heavily. aVery well. How did Briyce Unger say it, then?a aScared.a Partus let it slip matter-of-factly, like he was letting loose something precious indeed. aHe was scared, Iad stake my life on it.a Ransonas mouth opened slightly at the dwarfas words, as though he were weighing them in his mind, trying to calculate the value of them. aThat is a interesting. And, if true a greatly disturbing.a aDisturbing?a Cyrus looked around at the officers behind him, and the men surrounding him, and found one face in particulara"Longwell. The dragoonas mouth was slightly agape, his eyes wider than usual. aLongwell?a Cyrus asked. aWhat does it mean? Why does it matter?a Longwell stepped forward, brushing past Terian to stand next to Cyrus. aBriyce Unger, the King of Syloreas, has led every single battle heas fought from the vanguard. He fights like a madman in personal combat; itas said no man can take him down. He carries a mace with a ball the size of a manas head, and the spikes on it are as long as my forearm. Heas huge, taller maybe even than you,a Longwell acknowledged Cyrusas height with a nod. He is one of the mountain men of Syloreas, rocky and inhospitable. They donat fear many things. Briyce Unger is the most fearless of them all.a Longwell looked at the circle around Partus, and the dwarf looked at him and nodded. aSo for this mana"dwarfa"whatever he is, to say that Briyce Unger took this news and was scared aa The dragoon swallowed hard. aIt doesnat sound terribly good for him.a Cyrus watched Longwell carefully then shifted his attention to the still-chuckling Partus. aLet me give you a helpful hint, mercenary,a he said, stripping the smug look from the dwarfas face. aWhen the fearless man is afraid, itas not just bad for him, as a rule.a Cyrus stared north, as though he could sense something was ahead of them, over the horizon. aItas bad for all of us.a

Chapter 21.

The rest of night was subdued; conversations hashed over and over again. Partus was gagged once more and bound hand and foot, tied to a cot and put under guard. He was allowed water before he went to sleep, but only with a cessation spell over him, then he was strapped down and left quiet with two guards and Mendicant to watch over him. The goblin was ordered by Cyrus to thoroughly cover the dwarf with a fire spell should he attempt to escape, a fact which was not lost on the wide-eyed Partus.

Cyrus sat in a circle around a fire with his officers, but the conversations lost his attention after only a short while. They discussed what Partus had talked about, but it meandered in circles. Terian was silent, almost as though he were pouting or lost in his own thoughts. After their conflict, Cyrus had not bothered to approach the dark knight. Better to let him stew on it and talk with him in the morning. Heas sore that I had to remonstrate with him in a public forum. He frowned. Well, he shouldnat have tried to kill the prisoner.

Longwell contributed little to the conversation, only reiterating that Briyce Unger had little use for cowards, so the thought of him terrified was disquieting, at least. Ryin weighed in with his own observations, after which Nyad proceeded to dissect at length (interminably, to Cyrusas mind) every bit of what was said about the Sylorean army, Briyce Unger, and all other minutia. Shortly before midnight, Cyrus gave up and retreated to a tent that Ranson had indicated was for him.

Within, he found a wooden cot with a roll of furs to use as a mattress. Cyrus lay upon it, resting his head, hearing the sounds of the thousands of soldiers encamped around him. Though he knew the latrines were far from his tent, the smell of the battlefield was still present; the first hints of souring flesh, the real or perceived scent of blood on the air. He buried his face in the furs, sniffing at the clean, just-washed smell of them, the barest remains of soap still on them. He thought of the Baroness, of the morrow, and of how he would feel her against him again, and he slept.

The next day came similarly gloomy, and he woke to the sounds of the camp stirring. After stretching, Cyrus stepped outside the tent. Rain was in the air again, the heavy, humid feeling of a storm, ready to break. The clouds were grey and wended their way to both ends of the sky without break or interruption. Some patches were darker than others, but it was all a dark sky, and all a worrisome thing to have hanging over oneas head, ready to break loose at any moment.

After a brief conversation with Count Ranson, who urged Cyrus to begin the journey back to Vernadam, which awaited them for celebrations, Cyrus rallied the Sanctuary army. They made their way out of the camp, the column being led once more by the riders on horseback. They had left behind their own wagons at Vernadam, and so made their way onto the rough road leading into the Forest of Waigh before the morning had entirely left.

The sky remained gloomy but did not deliver on the promised rain until nearing midday, when it came in short, staccato bursts. For ten minutes the skies would pour buckets and then stop, the clouds finally breaking to reveal sunlight. A few minutes later, another cloud would cover the sun, drench the army of Sanctuary as it tried to hide under the boughs of the forest, and then be onward in the sky, letting the sun shine down again. After the fourth rainstorm, Cyrus lost count, not worrying, already soaked and near uncaring about the chill. Although he felt bad for the soldiers in the column, he knew the only thing for them was to finish the march, which would take another six hours or so before theyad reach Vernadam.

Cyrus spent his time quiet, thinking of the Baroness, of her touch. He found to his surprise that even in the short time head been gone, head missed having her travel with them, that head wanted to comment on something to her. Madness. That was fast. He imagined her face, her smile, and lapsed once again into thinking of the night before head left, and felt his own anticipation for their arrival.

The journey passed quickly, especially after the rain, and the Forest of Waigh ended when they had only three hours of marching left to their destination. From the moment they left behind the tree-covered skies, Vernadam was visible in the distance, the towering top spire sticking above all else, a faintly shadowed pillar on the horizon that grew and grew as they marched closer. Sundown cast it in a shadow against the purple sky, a black outline of the tallest castle Cyrus had ever seen.

They reached the city not long after sundown to much jubilance and celebration in the street. Women leapt from the crowds and kissed the men in the column (some to great joy, some to great dismay) and Cyrus found himself pelted with flowers and the recipient of countless offered bottles, most of which he declined.

They halted in the square to cheers and adulation. The environment around them was stunning, excitement was rampant, and Cyrus could feel himself sucked into it, a heady feeling of being a part of something grand, once-in-a-lifetime. He dodged a group of Galbadien boys who chanted his name, aCY-RUS, CY-RUS, CY-RUS,a and thought quietly that they looked to be of an age with some of the newest recruits in his army. The village was entirely turned out, and the smell of strong wine was already pervasive in the street, along with good ale and some urine as he rode past an alley or two.

He shouted to Odellan. aKeep them in line,a he said, and saw the elf nod at him. Cyrus gestured to his officers to proceed, and they did, to muted cheers and a widening chant of Cyrusas name that seemed to grow even louder as they exited the square and the village, ringing out even as they made their way up the path to Vernadam.

aFigures,a Terian said, muttering under his breath. aWe all go out and fight the battle, and heas the one that gets the cheers.a aI donat remember seeing you get your brains dashed out by a hammer for this victory,a Cyrus said.

aNo great loss there,a Terian replied. aYou didnat have much in the way of them to start.a Cyrus chuckled as they made their way up the winding path. It was darker, now, and the gates to the castle were visible ahead. The switchback sent them winding around at a slow canter, and Cyrus felt the discomfort in his haunches from all the sitting over the last months. A month without riding might be nice. Well, without horseback riding, anyway a The gate of Vernadam was impossibly large, yawning, the portcullis up and inviting them in. Cyrus imagined trying to lay siege to this castle, to deal with the meandering path, to fight against the steep sides, or attempt to put a siege engine against the curtain wall. Even the thought of bringing a battering ram heavy enough to shatter the great wooden gates was laughable. I pity whatever fool tries to take this place by force; assuming they were provisioned, it would be the effort of years. His mind drifted again to within the walls, to the Baroness, to the bed in his chambers. He was tired, again, after a long dayas ride, but not ready to sleep, not yet a They went through the tunnel of the portcullis, into the courtyard, and Cyrus looked up to the stairs that led to the front doors. The doors were open, and a procession was making its way down, following the King. He was almost to the bottom, and in the bevy of servants and house guards was another face, a shining one, resplendent, reallya"Cattrine, in a green dress of the most elegant silk, waiting for him only a few steps behind the King.

Cyrus dismounted and one of the servants from the stables came and took Windrideras reins from him. He waited until Longwell, Terian, and a few of the others joined him; Partus was paraded before them, looking murderously annoyed. Still gagged, the dwarf couldnat say anything, but he grunted in irritation every time Terian poked him to move forward.

The courtyard was insulated from the breezes that had run so infrequently outside, and Cyrus found himself a little warmer as he took his first steps toward the King. He could see the Baroness, a glow in her eyes and on her skin, as he smiled at her and came before the King, who nodded at him.

aKing Aron,a Cyrus said, aI present to you the dwarven mercenary who has caused you so many difficulties, as a sign, from us of the Sanctuary Army, that we hope your troubles with Syloreas are at an end after the battle of Harrowas Crossing.a The assembled servants and guards burst into spontaneous applause, encouraged by the benign smile upon the Kingas face. When they had quieted, the King spoke, not taking his eyes off the dwarf. aYour gift is much appreciated, as are your efforts in these dark days, made light by your victory over our enemies. When my only son left,a he turned toward Samwen Longwell, who looked at his feet, aI feared the worst for my house, only to see the worst come after his departure. But what I thought would be our ruin became our salvation as he returned with you wonderful people of the west.a The King raised his hands above him. aI declare the next thirty days to be a time of celebration and feasting throughout the Kingdom of Galbadien. Let all who are fit raise their cups to Cyrus Davidon, Samwen Longwell, and the heroes of Sanctuary, who have delivered us from our ancient foes! Let all who have lips to speak praise their names, and let us dedicate this time to salving their weariness, resting them from their troubles, and feasting them upon the most succulent delicacies our lands have to offer.a The Kingas thin face was positively radiant. aThis in the name of those who have ventured so far to offer a hand of friendship. This is your time.a He spread his arms wide, beckoning them forward to the castle. aWe invite you to stay with us, and enjoy all we have to offera"in the name of our friendship.a Thunderous applause greeted them, echoing forth in the courtyard from every servant and guard, as loud as in the open air of the square in the village below. There would be feasts, and songs, and plenty of wine, Cyrus knew, but his eyes were fixed on a point past the King, on a face still glowing, still smiling at him, and thinking of a time long past dinner and dessert, when the hours were late and the darkness was nigh a a and he stayed awake long into the night, he and Cattrine, in each otheras armsa"and even when the knock came at their door the next morning summoning them for breakfast, they were not quickly to be stirred or parted.

Chapter 22.

A month passed in an eyeas blink, to Cyrus. He found himself in need of exercise beyond what the Baroness offered in their chambers in order to offset the rich delicacies that the King continued to feed them, and so he took up practicing with his sword in the courtyard every day before lunch and again before dinner. More often than not he was joined by the Baroness, clad not in her dress (nor in the much less formal attire she wore to their bed) but in the riding outfit she had donned during their journey from Green Hill, and he taught her the way of the sword, a day at a time, with a blade provided by the Kingas armory as a gift.

aNot quite like that,a he said, behind her, pressed against her, steering her arm with his hand wrapped around hers. aLike this.a He made a motion and then drew back his hand, watching for her to make the same motion. She did, and he spoke. aVery good.a aSuch ample encouragement,a she whispered as she made the motion again, a short strike with the light blade, enough to cut a throat, if need be. aDo you teach all your students from this position?a She looked up to him, catching his eye, and he saw the hint of wryness in her smile.

aNot quite,a he said, rubbing himself against her, feeling her press back, and sensing the promise of something else later, something that would perhaps help defray the slow slide of lethargy that thirty days of idleness could bring a soldier. aBut with you, I do prefer a hands-on approach.a aIndeed?a she said quietly. aAnd where would you prefer those hands to be?a He started to answer her but stopped when a stableboy passed by them on his way into the castle. The sunny day shone down on them from above, the white stones of the castle gleaming in the light. Cyrus looked around and realized that only a few souls were out and about today, which was unusual for the courtyard. aIad prefer them be in several places at once, if I had my druthers,a he said once the stableboy passed from earshot. aBut as I only have two, I can think of where Iad prefer they go first aa He whispered in her ear and she laughed, giving him a kiss on the mouth for his suggestion.

aHad enough for today, then?a he asked her when they parted.

aOf swordplay? I think so, yes,a she said with a smile and a glimmer in her eyes, sliding her weapon back into the scabbard. The blade was thin, more of a rapier than a proper broadsword, but quick and light enough that Cattrine, thin and lithe, could wield it lethally. aOf being physically maneuvered by you? No. Not even close.a He walked with an arm around her as they headed back up the steps into the foyer. aHard to believe weave been here for a month.a He frowned. aEven harder to believe weare leaving tomorrow.a aAh, yes,a she said with mild enthusiasm. aI finally get to see this mythical aSanctuarya Iave heard so much about. And perhaps Iall finally meet this much-vaunted Vara, and see how much competition I have.a aThat would be none.a He stopped her in the stone foyer, delivering a long, passionate kiss that caused a nearby servant to cough politely. aShe gave up the fight before we even met; the battle is ceded to you.a Cattrine stared at him, something vague and mysterious hiding in her expression. She reached up with a lone finger and pressed it to his lips. aI do enjoy hearing you talk about love in war metaphors.a aTheyare very similar, Iave heard,a he said with a wide grin. aBattles and fighting and all that. Even some bloodshed. Also, all is fair in both of them.a aAll that aside,a she said, serious, awhatas to become of me when we arrive back in Arkaria? Am I to stay in Sanctuary, be your kept woman?a aI would be perfectly fine with that.a He wrapped his arms around her, but when he went to kiss her again, he got her cheek instead of her lips. aWhatas wrong?a aI am not some broken woman, waiting for a man to save me.a She looked momentarily embarrassed. aWhich is why I took you up on your offer. So that I would never have to come before a man again and beg him to give me what I wanta"and that includes you.a aJust because youare with me doesnat mean youare bound to me,a Cyrus said, letting her pull from him. aYou can find some meaningful work, some endeavors to devote your time to.a She did not look at him. aBaronessa"a aFor heavens sakes, Cyrus,a she snapped. aI am no longer a Baroness. Everyone else calls me Cattrine, and the least you can do as the man I am intimate with is afford me the same courtesy.a She looked at him with rueful humor and the slightest amusement. aPlease.a aIam sorry.a He found he meant it sincerely. aIt must be difficult.a aHm?a She looked at him in curiosity.

aNot knowing what to do next,a he said. aNot knowing a where youare going, or what youall do when you get there. Being reliant on another person for food, for sustenance, for room and board, for everything. I apologize for having put you in that position.a She sighed. aYou didnat. Being born a woman in Luukessia put me in that position. Youare relieving me of it; but that doesnat mean itall be easy. Many a bird has struggled before taking flight for the first time.a She looked at him with great irony. aMore than a few die trying to fly. I hope Iam not one of those.a aThere are many kinds of work available for a woman in Arkaria,a Cyrus said gently. aEven around Sanctuary we could surely find something to do that wouldnat involve fighting, if you wanted.a aI appreciate the offer,a she said more quietly. aI would like to remain near you, so that we can continue to a explore a what our next step might be together.a aAh, yes,a he said. aNext steps a well, I can think of one that tends to be a natural path.a Her eyes flashed. aRings, ceremonies, commitments? As I recall, I already asked you to do me that service once and you denied me.a aI did. But had I known what I would be getting at the time,a he said with a wide grin, aI might not have been so reluctant to commit to it.a She put on an offended look and smacked him on the arm. aYou do me wrong, sir, to say such a crude thing to me.a Her look softened. aEspecially since I did offer at the time, and you declined that as well aa He sighed. aIf only Iad known what I was missing. Why, I could have had another monthas worth of your physical company in my bedroll on the way here.a aIs that all you keep me around for?a She kept her body at a slight distance, hovering just a few inches away.

aNot at all,a Cyrus said. aI also find your insight excellent and your conversational skills top notch. But I canat say I havenat enjoyed the other.a She ran a hand through her brown hair, letting it fall out of the knot shead styled it in before coming outside. He loved the way it lay, framing her face. aI confess that Iave enjoyed this time with you as wella"all parts of it, not having to worry, merely being aa she steered around the words he expected her to use, the ones she hadnat yeta"nor had he, either. aa together, without a care in the world,a she finished but without her customary smile.

aItas something Iam rather unaccustomed to,a Cyrus agreed, as they made their way up the main staircase. aSomeone once suggested to me that I might consider taking a vacation, but really, for as long as I recall, battle has been my release, itas the way I spend myself when I get too harried and wound. But this, to slow down and take things easy,a he slid a hand along her side as he said it, ahas been nicer than I could have guessed it would be.a aYou didnat think spending a month in the company of an insatiable woman,a she slid her hands behind his back and grasped him, firmly, awakening him as she had by rubbing against him in the courtyard, awould be utterly exhausting and relaxing all at once?a aI a hmm aa They broke from another kiss with a grin and continued on their way. He watched the gleam in her eyes, the hunger, watched how she slowed her pace, to tease him, to make him wait. His long legs yearned to run, to scoop her up in his arms and carry her back to their bedroom, the place that they had made their owna"he had seen her cry, watched her work through nights of pain and countless agonies from her past while he was there, waiting and watching and holding her. She had been there, too, for him, though he had never been as obvious about it. He had grieved in his own way, and she had rested his head upon her bosom, held him in her arms as he felt her warmth and let slip away a thousand dreams and memories of Vara, her golden hair and silver armora"

Cattrine let out a squeal of delight as Cyrus swept her up in his arms, just down the corridor from their room, carrying her at a light run. He opened the door with one hand and carried her in, his fingers eager to unbutton her shirt, to unlace her breeches, to throw her entire ensemble on the floor and get her to the bed, where he could feel her against him, to be with her a They were on the bed when the first knock came, and Cyrus paused, his clothes already off. He waited, still, listening as the same methodical knocking came again. He met Cattrineas eyes and she watched his impishly, waiting to hear if the sound persisted or went away. There was another knock moments later, and Cyrus exchanged a look with Cattrine, wrapped a blanket around himself, and walked across the cold floor to the door and opened it.

Martaina waited outside, along with Odau Genner, who wore a pained expression on his pinched face. Martaina was impassive, standing as though she were on guard.

aYes?a Cyrus asked, looking between the two of them with slight irritation.

aMy liege summons you, Lord Davidon,a Genner said. aHe requests your presence in the throne room immediately.a aThen I will be alonga"immediately,a Cyrus said. aProvided he wonat be offended if I dress myself first.a aI believe that he would consider that an acceptable delay,a Genner said with a nod. aWe await your company, sir.a With that, he left, walking down the hall.

aWhat are you doing out here?a Cyrus asked Martaina.

aIave been here all along.a aYou werenat here a few minutes ago when I came in.a Cyrus snugged the blanket around himself, making certain that nothing undue was visible.

aNo,a Martaina agreed. aI went around the corner for as long as it took the two of you to go inside. But before that, I was out here.a aHow did you know we were a oh.a He looked at her, annoyed. aElven hearing.a She smiled faintly. aGet dressed, sir.a He closed the door, letting the grain of the wood slide against his palm as he pondered what the King might have to say that was so important it couldnat wait.

aWho was it?a Cattrine asked from behind him.

Cyrus jerked slightly from surprise. aOdau Genner. The King wants to see me immediately for some reason or another.a She wore a robe, dipping slightly over her shoulder to reveal some of the scars that she had tried to hide from him, at first. aIt seems unlikely he would summon you urgently for mere triviality.a She drew close, and reached under the blanket, drawing his attention to her. aWe can finish our a interlude a later.a She kissed him. aYou should get dressed.a He grunted and retrieved his underclothes from the bedroom, pulling on his trousers and sliding into his shirt. aI wouldnat mind it, you know. Getting married to you. Now that I know you, I mean.a She stood next to his armor, ready to assist him in strapping it on, the chainmail already in her hands. Her back was turned to him, but he saw her freeze, halfway down, having stooped to pick it up.

aI would do right by you,a he said, coming up behind her. aI said no before, back when I didnat know you, but I know you now, and I have no problem if you wanted toa"a aNot yet.a She turned to him and smiled weakly. aIt is custom in Luukessia for a short courtship, only a few days in many cases. What we have done, here, this last month is a not unheard of, but rare. And I have enjoyed it, every day of it. As an unmarried woman, before I was the Baroness, it would have been impossible. My virtue was guarded carefully. Now that that particular castle has fallen, I find myself all the happier for it.a She smiled. aI wish to continue enjoying our time together without worry or pressure. Having you here, without concern of marriage or imminent motherhood from our dealingsa"that ventraamaq is really quite the wondera"I find myself in the dubious position being able to tell you I am not ready, whereas before I would have welcomed your offer.a She laid aside the chainmail and grasped both his hands, bringing them to her lips and kissing them. aPlease donat be upset that I say noa"it is not no forever but only for now.a aIam not upset,a Cyrus said. aLong courtships are common in Arkaria, as are short courtships. Everything is acceptable, depending on where you are. As are extended periods of a well, what weave done here. I am not upset, and I understand.a He smiled and didnat even have to try terribly hard to force it. aI trust youall let me know if the day comes youad want to take me up on my offer?a aI aa She started to answer but stopped, and he studied her as her small hands found his chainmail again and held it up for him, indicating he should lower his head to put it on. aI believe the day may come a perhaps soon, even a when that could happen.a She smiled. aBe patient with me.a aBut of course.a He held still as she strapped his breastplate and backplate on. aI think I can wait. At least a little while.a She slapped his backside in mock outrage and he laughed.

A few minutes later, he stepped out of their chambers and started down the long stone hallway. Martaina fell into step a pace behind him. aAny idea what this is about?a he asked her.

aAs much as you do,a she replied, her green cloak trailing on the ground.

aWhat, you couldnat hear it from across the castle when they sent Genner to summon me?a aNo,a Martaina said with a thin smile, ait must have gotten drowned out by the sound of your suggestive banter with the Baroness.a Cyrus took a left turn coming down the steps in the foyer, walking to the massive double doors opposite the ones that led to the dining hall. Two guards in the livery of Galbadien soldiers opened the door, holding it for Cyrus to pass. Martaina halted outside the door, drawing up to the frame and stopping. Once within, the doors began to close behind him and Cyrus found himself in the throne room, a place he had been on only a few formal occasions since arriving at Vernadam. Once had been for a presentation ceremony in which he and the other officers of Sanctuary had been recognized for their good works, for their efforts in the battle.

It was a long chamber, the ceilings half a hundred feet high, with arches of stone and great columns to support them. The block was dark, grey, and cast a pallor in the room that even the row of stained glass windows to Cyrusas right could not break. Light shone in from outside, but not nearly enough to counter the gloomy atmosphere. The air seemed stale to Cyrus, as though it were not moving within the chamber. Ahead of him was the King, on a raised dais a few steps off the ground.

The Kingas lips were pursed, his eyes narrowed in disgust, and the small ring of courtiers that stood around him loosened as Cyrus approached the foot of the steps, creating a half-circle with the throne anchoring the center, allowing the King to look down on Cyrus with curled lips, his poorly settled skin wiggling with the motion.

aYour Majesty,a Cyrus said, dipping slightly in a bow when he reached the bottom of the steps. Looking up, he tried to discern from the courtiersa expressions what might be going on; none of them were particularly helpful. Most looked dazed, surprised, and a few looked downright hostile. aYou summoned and I answered your call. How may I be of service?a aIt should surprise you not that we have received letters of vital importance this morning through carrier pigeons,a the King said, his expression still harsh, though guarded. aThe first is of some notea"the Kingdom of Syloreas asks us for peace and has summoned us to a moot at the ancient citadel of Enrant Monge, the place of meeting.a Cyrus listened and tried to decipher the unsaid message that had turned the room sour. aThis is good news, is it not?a aIt is,a the King said, puckering his lips. aThough to summon us to Enrant Monge is the unlikeliest of maneuvers for Briyce Unger; there has not been a moot there in fifteen years, and he speaks of putting aside the past to face new dangers that await us all. I wonder of what he might be speaking, if it might be a Western doom.a aDoom?a Cyrus asked. aIam sorry, I donat understand.a aPerhaps I could endeavor to explain?a Odau Genner appeared from the line of courtiers; Cyrus hadnat even noticed the man absorbed among them. He was wearing clothing rather than armor. And letas be honest, the manas as plain as bread when heas not being obsequious. aEnrant Monge is an ancient castle in the middle of Luukessia,a Genner began, amaintained to this day as the site of all discussions between the three Kingdoms.a aAll right,a Cyrus said. aSo heas summoned you there a and you suspect a trap?a aNo,a Genner said with a smile. aYou do not engage in hostilities of any kind at Enrant Monge. It is a place of peace, kept as a shrine to the days when our Kingdoms were united and all Luukessia was ruled from within its great halls. To fight at Enrant Monge is anathema, unheard of. To be summoned there by Briyce Unger is a shocking development. We expected to hear from him, but only in the form of a letter requesting terms to go back to our earlier borders.a Cyrus shrugged. aSo heas got some other threat in mind?a There were nods from the courtiers. aAny idea what it is?a aWe are not receiving regular messengers,a Genner said. aWith our army moving north and Ungeras forces still withdrawing from the keeps theyave taken, we donat have a clear idea of whatas going on.a He cast a look at the King. aBut this is all mere courtesy, to let you know about the conclusion to the war you helped us win. The King has summoned you here for a different purpose entirely.a Cyrus gave the King a polite nod, inwardly chafing. Iall be old by the time these bastards get to their point. He shifted in his armor, feeling the discomfort in his greaves from the thought and touch of Cattrine, still waiting in his bed a aWe have received another message,a Genner said, somewhat grave. aThis one is also of some import.a aI appreciate a good sense for the dramatic as much as the next person,a Cyrus said, abut would you mind just cutting to point? Iam a soldier, and weare not renowned for our patience or craftiness with words.a aVery well, General,a the King said. aOn your way to our land from the bridge, you laid siege to the keep at Green Hill in Actaluere.a aI did,a Cyrus said calmly. aThough it wasnat much of a siege. It took less than an hour.a The courtiers all shuffled uncomfortably. aIs this a problem? Your son told me conquests of that sort are common, and in fairness, Baron Hoygraf provoked us by kidnapping one of our scouting parties and holding them prisoner.

aIt is all well and good to storm a keep, take some plunder,a Odau Gennar said, aand young Longwell was correct, such skirmishes do happen regularly, and if not part of a sustained invasion, are generally overlooked.a He hesitated. aHowever aa aHowever,a the King interrupted Genneras dramatic pause, brandishing a letter, athis was not a normal instance. We have received this because of it.a He unfolded the page, waving it from the throne. aA declaration of war! From Actaluere!a aExcuse me?a Cyrus stared at the paper. aActaluere has declared war on you? Or on Sanctuary?a aOn us,a Genner said. aBecause we are harboring you. They demanda"a aLook at this!a The King stood, holding the paper before him, waving it at Cyrus. aYou come to my Kingdom and you bring war and despair. And now you would retreat back from whence you came and leave the wreckage behind!a aHold it,a Cyrus said. aYou were a night away from total defeat when we got here, letas not go forgetting that. Second, if itas as you say, I wonat leave until I can resolve this situation with Actaluere.a He watched the Kingas outrage subside, the waving of the letter stopped, and the page crumpled as the Kingas hand fell by his side. aSo theyare upset with us for raiding Green Hill?a aNot exactly,a Odau Genner said, stepping in. aThe thing you have to understand is that Milos Tiernan, the King of Actaluere, is quite cunning, but not disposed to wanting a war. We suspect this declaration is his way of warning us of his dissatisfaction.a aSo you donat think he means to prosecute a war against you?a Cyrus asked, confused.

aOh, he will fight,a the King said, aand he will roll across our western border with nothing to stop him, sacking everything in sight and leaving our land a smoking ruin. But he warns us first, so that first we may accede to his demands, and let the whole thing be taken back, put away, and never spoken of again. Honor satisfied, he will rescind his declaration of war and be done with it.a aHonor satisfied?a Cyrus looked at Genner, hoping for an explanation. aWhat does Tiernan want?a aYou took something from Green Hill when you sacked it,a Genner began delicately. aSomething importanta"vital, really. He wants it back.a aThatas fine,a Cyrus said. aNone of the plunder we took was of vital importance to us. Some gemstones, silverware and the like. Whatever of it he wants, weall give back, no issue.a Cyrus looked around at the courtiers, some of whom seemed extremely discomfited. aSo what is it? A jewel? A sword?a aI do not believe you understand,a said Odau Genner, looking at his boots.

aThat much is plain,a Cyrus snapped. aBecause none of you are explaining this in anything other than a circuitous way. Be out with it, man! What the hells does he want?a aYour lover,a the King said, matching the fire in Cyrusas voice. aThe Baroness Cattrine Hoygraf. He wants her returned immediately, to satisfy his honor.a aHis honor?a Cyrus spat. aI took her rightly from a man I bested and killed, a man who tortured and abused her. What claim does he think he has to her?a aNo claim at all if you come to it,a Genner said. aYou are correct, you took her fairly from a vanquished foe, and by all the standards of Luukessia, he has no right to ask for her back. But nonetheless, he does aska"and if you do not return her, he will invade our western reaches.a aAnd Iall ride out to meet him, kill his army, cut off his head, and leave a smoking ruin of his Kingdom,a Cyrus said, a feral savagery overriding his senses, anger hot in his veins. He felt himself shake, such was the fury that poured through him. aBy what right does he imagine he can do this thing? What gives him the right to try and take her away?a The King exchanged a look with Genner, who looked back at Cyrus. aBy honor and blood, sir, does he demand her return. And it is honor that drives him, make no mistake. Your taking of the Baroness does make him look weak, a fool, and her return after a threat of war will soothe his pride, balm his wounded reputation.a Genner let out a small smile, though the King returned to sit on his throne, hands resting on the arms of it. aAfter all,a Genner said, awould you do any less if someone took your own blood?a aOwn blood?a Cyrus said, feeling as though the ground had dropped from beneath him. aWhose blood?a The King leaned forward in his seat, his thin fingers caressing the arms of the throne. One of his hands darted up to stay Genner, who had begun to answer. aYou donat know, then?a The King seemed to relish the thought, as though he were gaining sustenance from Cyrusas unknowing. aYour lover, Baroness Cattrinea"before she was the Baroness Hoygraf of Green Hill, was someone else entirely. I suppose she never told you her maiden name?a Cyrus waited, his jaw clenched, as the King savored his moment of triumph.

aOh, yes,a the King proclaimed, ashe didnat. What a snakelike creature a woman is, how like a viper to envenom you, and without even an exchange of the proper truths. I see how it is. Very well, then.a He smiled. aBefore your lady Cattrine was Baroness Hoygraf, she was Cattrine Tiernan, the Contessa of Caenalys, the capital of all Actaluere, born to the title by blood.

aBecause, you see, she is Milos Tiernanas own dear sister.a

Chapter 23.

aYouare not going to hurt her, are you?a Martaina broke the silence between them on the walk back to Cyrusas quarters. The steady noise of his boots smacking against the marble with each step drummed a rhythm of fury, the walls seemed to blur as he passed. At Martainaas words his head snapped around at her.

aWhat?a He nearly recoiled away from her. aNo, Iam not going to hurt her. What kind of a question is that?a aA valid one,a the ranger said, trying to keep pace with Cyrusas long footsteps as they chewed up the ground between him and his quarters. The meeting had ended shortly after the King had made his revelationa"Cyrus thought of it as twisting the dagger, the King had seemed to enjoy his pain soa"and Cyrus had left the chamber, not hearing anything else that had been said save for that the royal convoy would begin the month-long journey to Enrant Monge on the morrow. aYouave been told something that augers badly for a woman you werea"dare I saya"beginning to fall ina"a aI was not,a Cyrus snapped. aI trusted her, thatas all. I invited her into my bed. I a started to a barely allow myself a I had become comfortable with her,a he finally allowed. aBut she has lied to me. Everything about her approach to me from the start to now has been based on that lie.a aShe never lied to you,a Martaina said, breaking into a jog to keep alongside him. aCan you blame her for not wanting you to know that she was the sister of the King of Actaluere, being as they were the ones whose envoy had captured and harmed our people?a aYes, I can blame her,a Cyrus said. aVery easily, in fact. If I wasnat shaken from taking her along with us by the fact that her husband kidnapped and raped some of my people, I likely wouldnat have been dissuaded had I known her brother was a royal prick who sold her into slavery to the baron. But she didnat give me the opportunity. She lied.a He heard the words, and they sounded foreign to him, burned in his gullet.

aBe cautious, sir,a Martaina warned him. aDonat do anything youall regret latera"a aI wonat regret a bit of it,a Cyrus said, the words stinging his lips with a fire of their own. aWhatas with this sudden concern? Do you honestly think Iam going to a what? Slap her around? I donat care how furious I am, I donat hit women.a He paused. aWhen Iam not in combat. I mean, some lady brandishes a sword at me, my gentlemanly ways tend to go right out the windowa"a aJust aa Martaina stopped, tugging on Cyrusas arm. aYouare angry, sir. Understandable. But you may make of things differently later. You may want to go easy.a aI donat expect Iam going to be seeing this betrayal differently in the eveningas light,a Cyrus said. aNor in the light of the moon, nor tomorrowas, nor the next moonas, nor any day from here going forward til the end of all days. She a lied to me. She betrayed me.a He felt the emotions play across his face, felt it contort, the rage coloring the inflection of his words. aYou think Iam likely to forget that? Sheas the sister of someone whoas a declared enemy of ours. Whose servant did thingsa"a aSheas the wife of said servant, and you got over that enough to pleasure yourself with her,a Martaina replied, unfazed. aYou took your armor off with her, sira"and thatas not something you tend to do. You may be wearing it now, but sheas already through it. Youare stinging right now. Tread easy.a Martaina withdrew, seeming to fade as she began to step backward. aLest you find out how much more it can hurt.a Cyrus looked back at her, unflinching. aIam a warrior. Taking pain is what I do. Gather the officers together, tell them Iall met with them in the dining hall in fifteen minutes.a He straightened. aTruly fifteen minutes, this time. Let them know.a He turned away, trying to keep an even pace on his journey through the halls until he reached his room. His urge was to throw the door open and storm in, but he restrained it, shutting it near-silently. He heard something stir in the bedroom, and Cattrineas head peeked around the doorframe, followed by the rest of her, shyly displaying her nude skin, the scars obvious and plentiful. She had done much the same for the last thirty days, and every time it enticed him, drew him in, the sight of her this way.

Now he saw only the scars, jagged, angry, marring the perfect skin, interrupting the smoothness of her flesh, things he barely noticed yesterday, but were now glaringly obvious, standing out, filling his vision. They were all he could see. aGet dressed,a he said. aYour brother threatens war on Galbadien.a Cyrus watched her confidence crumple, the smooth, seductive look evaporating from her face like a mirage when one draws too close. One of her hands wrapped around her breasts while the other sank lower, as though she could cover herself with them. aHe what? Iam sorry?a aHe threatens war. On Galbadien, for harboring the Sanctuary army.a Cyrusas gaze was cold, unmerciful, and he could feel Cattrine wilt before it. aThe King and his advisors seem to believe itas his way of salving his wounded honor, because heas embarrassed that a foreign army marched through his realm, slapped down one of his barons, and stole away his own flesh and blood without challenge.a aThat a does sound like him,a she said. aBut itas just the rattle of the sword, surely he canat mean toa"a aThey think he does,a Cyrus said. aThey think he knows theyare weak on the border and that he wonat hesitate to exploit that to save himself some rich embarrassment.a Her eyes flicked down, even as she stood away from the doorframe, exposed, in the middle of the room. Her hands hovered near uselessly around her body, and she seemed to shiver, though the room felt warm to Cyrusas skin.

aI didnat mean a Iam sorry,a she said, still not meeting his eyes, afor not telling you.a aYes,a Cyrus said. aIam sorry, too. Would it really have been that bad? I already took you on knowing what your husband was. Did you think having an ass of a brother would have stopped me?a aI was afraid,a she said, as her body jerked from an unseen chill, athat you might think something like this could happen, and you would change your mind. I thought that perhaps it would be dangerous to tell you, that you werenat as honorable or decent as you appeared to be. I had reasons,a she said, finally looking up at him. aVery good ones, every single one, or at least they sounded so in my head.a aI trusted you.a Cyrus stared at her, and she flinched away. aIn a way I havenat a with anyone a in a long time. I understand your reasons, but as of about thirty days ago a when you knew who I was and what I stood for a they should have been null and you should have told me the truth.a aIam sorry.a She still did not look up, focusing instead on the floor, the marble, anything but him. aIam sorry, Cyrus aa aYeah.a He heard the scrape of his boots on the floor as he turned back to the door. aI have to go meet with my officers. King Longwell is leaving tomorrow; theyave been summoned to Enrant Monge by Briyce Unger.a aWill we be going as well?a she asked.

aI donat know yet,a Cyrus said.

He heard her move across the floor, taking tentative steps, her feet making a slight sucking noise as they pulled from the marble floor with each step. aWill you hand me back over to my brother? As though I were a piece of property?a Cyrus felt the answer within him, steeped in the rage he felt inside at her betrayal. Yes! Iall hand you over to him, let him have you, be done with you and your lies, your deceits, with your a He nearly choked at the memory of her fingers tracing lines down his skin. aYou should get dressed,a he said simply, and walked out the door, careful to open it no more than was necessary to slip out, so as not to expose her to anyone who might be walking down the hall.

As he walked away from the closed door, he stopped, halted by some unseen feeling, something that ran through him, a ripple of strong emotion, and he tried to quiet it. She lied. She betrayed you. Just like Vara. Just like Imina. He felt his fist clench. Felt his mask of emotionlessness deteriorate, and he placed his hand on the stone wall of the hallway, as though he could draw some unseen strength from it. He imagined pebbles falling within him, into the giant void, the roiling maelstrom in his chest, the storm that threatened to break loose out of him and cause him to shed tears, something he had not done since a He remembered, and then pushed it down, back into the depths, along with the storm, along with everything else.

One foot in front of another. Keep walking. I need to meet with the officers. I need to decide what weare going to do next. He took a breath, then another, slow, as though he could excise the venom within simply by breathing it out. He imagined the stones falling inside him again, rocks, boulders, dropping into his center, weighing down his heart, so that he couldnat feel the emotion within. He imagined ice, cold, frigid blocks of it, stacked all around his pain, cooling him, building a wall that it couldnat escape. He let it contain the emotion, bury it, push it far out of sight, behind the wall, where he could no longer taste the bitterness of it in his mouth, and the blood rushing through his ears subsided.

One foot in front of another, he told himself again, pulling his hand from the wall, letting his own strength hold him upright again. He stood up, trying to straighten his spine, as though standing as tall as possible could help somehow, disguise his weakness, put it to the back of him, where he wouldnat feel it and no one would see it. He resisted the urge to let his knees buckle, fought it, let the ice hold his emotions in check. One foot in front of another. Keep walking.

He took a step, then another, and the pace became quicker and quicker as his feet carried him away from the door, away from the handle he wanted to turn, the words he wanted to say, away from the feel of her skin against hisa"and back to his duty.

Chapter 24.

aDid you know?a It was Ryin who asked the question, after Cyrus had laid out everything that King Longwell had told him. Reactions had ranged from shocked horror (Nyad, who had her hands covering her mouth, her eyes wider than usual) to calm acceptance (Curatio and Jaanda, each of whom let only a single raised eyebrow appear on their facesa"Curatio, the left and Jaanda the right, the contrast of their light and dark skin and facial reactions making them appear as bizarre mirror images) to unflinching, uncaring emptiness (Terian). Only Ryin spoke, though Samwen Longwell had a question of sorts on his face.

aOf course he didnat,a Nyad said, turning to slap Ryin across the arm with a backhand, drawing an annoyed look from the druid as he rubbed his shoulder. She turned back to Cyrus, and her expression changed to perplexed. aWait, did you?a aHe didnat,a Curatio said, studying Cyrus. aThis is not the sort of thing our gGeneral would have hidden from us.a aIad like to hear him say it,a Ryin spoke up again, still massaging the place where Nyad had struck him. He looked at the faces around him, Curatio, Jaanda and Nyad in particular, showing some irritation with him. aItas not as though itas the first time heas played games with the truth to get something he wanted. I just want to hear him say he didnat know.a aI didnat know,a Cyrus said, his voice devoid of any emotion. aBut now we have consequences to deal with.a aActaluereas declaration of war isnat as problematic as one might think,a Longwell said, drawing the officersa attention to him. aTheyall have received a summons to Enrant Monge as well, and theyall be obligated to attend. Weall have a chance to smooth this over with Milos Tiernan himself.a aWhat if our esteemed General doesnat want to smooth it over?a Ryin asked. aI mean, we are talking about handing over his lovera"a aSheas my nothing,a Cyrus said, drawing a gasp from Nyad. aShe is nothing to me, now.a He didnat wait for the officers to react before plunging ahead. aShe is, however, under the protection of Sanctuary, granted asylum because of the barbaric treatment of women in this land.a aAsylum she gained from you under false pretense,a Ryin said. aShe didnat mention she was the sister of the monarch, did she? That seems like material information that could have influenced our decision to allow her to come along.a aIt wasnat aoura decision,a Cyrus said dully. aIt was mine.a aGreat,a Ryin said sarcastically. aBecause your stubborn decisions never lead us into war.a aCalm yourself,a Curatio said to Ryin. aWe do have a reputation to consider. Once we grant someone protection, do we lift it and throw her back to the same brother who willingly wedded her to that monster the moment it becomes inconvenient? That doesnat seem to be the Sanctuary way.a aAnd starting another war for Galbadien to contend with?a Ryin Ayend looked around the other officers. aIs that the Sanctuary way?a aIt is if we start and finish the war for them,a Terian growled. aIam no fan of the Baroness, but I could stand to have another few battles before we head home.a He smiled coldly. aAfter all, we have troops that need seasoning. Itad be a shame if they marched all the way out here to take part in only one good fight before we turn around and go back to Sanctuary.a aCyrus?a Jaandaas cool voice seemed to demand a level of quiet from the others in the room. aWhat do you intend to do?a aWe go to Enrant Monge,a Cyrus said. aWeall travel along with the Galbadien court, and Iall speak with Milos Tiernan, outline our position, and weall see where we go from there. Maybe thereall be a war with them aa He let his voice trail off before it returned, only slightly above a whisper, aa and maybe there wonat.a aWhat position will you be outlining to him?a Jaanda asked, looking around at the other officers.

Cyrus did not move, did not blink, and gave no hint of any emotion when he answered. aI donat know yet. But Iave got a little less than a month to figure it out.a