We looked to each other, then back to the streets. They were empty. No silhouettes of people were seen through the windows. No smoke rose up from the high chimneys. The streets were dead and soundless.

“They are afraid,” I whispered.

“They must be awake, for the death-stroke will come in the night.”

“We must get to the mountains.”
My companion sprang before me, and we dashed nearly noiselessly across the paved street. We came to a gate and halted against it, waiting for sounds. There was nothing but our breathing and the lapping of calm waters. I looked through the ivy covered gate and saw them faintly. We were in the shadows again, and only faint light glimpsed upon us.

*****

I had never borne a courageous heart. Yet I was bound by duty, and not the will of my shaken body. So even with my bloodied sword I dashed down the dark stairs and the light flickered on me. My enemy had rolled down to Celgarian; he held it within his reach.

Yet I was swifter with the fear that propelled me. I dropped my dagger to let it clatter to the stone floor. I screamed.

“Stop!” but my voice felt weak and unheeded. I let myself fall upon him, and I began to drag and tear at him, trying ever to get his hands securely within my grasp. Yet again he was a warrior; I was a desperate girl, bound to honor suddenly found in the Darkest hours.

*****

The Marher never dismounted.

“Give me the message you bear.” The voice came out like a long strained note of the wind. I made no movement. Our eyes met. I held his gaze with no intention of letting it loose to wander. “You defy me.”

“Yes.” I answered him wearily, but with no lacking in my voice

He turned his horse to walk from the courtyard, and ordered:

“He is Count Gorsail’s prisoner, but give the message to us.”

But I would not let myself be conquered yet.