Page 95

He is unmoved by my declaration.

“If Aedre truly does not wish to see me, tomorrow after my meeting with the queen’s commander”—I can hardly believe these words are coming from me—“my men and I will depart for d’Almerita.”

Ignoring all around us, I wait for his response.

Aldwine does not hesitate.

“Then I bid you a good day, my lord.”

With a quick nod of the head, Aldwine sheathes his sword and turns to leave.

The men surround me, all speaking at once. Incredulous that I lost, effusively praising Aldwine’s swordsmanship. My arm burns with the effort of our engagement. I slip my sword back into its sheath.

Salvi repeats the question he and the others continue to ask.

“Why did you fight Aldwine?”

The question finally penetrates, but I can’t bring myself to answer it. I am numb with the thought of leaving without seeing her again.

“Vanni?”

All three of my men surround me, and so I give them as much as I’m able.

“He defends Aedre. We leave tomorrow.”

Walking away, knowing my answer is insufficient but unable to care, I leave the inn. I walk past the docks and head toward the one place I’ve found a measure of solace in Murwood End.