"I killed him," he said.

"Yes, you did," she agreed, "but I fear it will do little for our present condition. We now sit, condemned to death for killing a temple commander."

"You can escape," he said.

"You're in no shape to move," said Natalia, "let alone try to escape."

"You can use your magic to save yourself," he pressed, "you're more than capable."

"No, I've used up all my power and then some. I'm afraid I'll not be casting for some time."

"Then use your name," he demanded. "Your family has influence, they wouldn't dare hurt a Stormwind."

Natalia looked at him in shock. "How do you know my family name?"

"I overheard them at Lady Arabel's," he confessed. "It didn't take me long to piece everything else together. I've seen how powerful you are, and you told me early on that your family was looking for you. Tell the Church who you are, and they're sure to let you go."

"No," she said, "they'd take me back to the Volstrum."

"But at least you'd be alive."

"I won't leave you!" she swore.

"I killed one of their commanders," he said, "they'll hang me."

"Then we'll hang together," she said, tears coming to her eyes. "I never really had a life until I met you. You accepted me for who I am, not my name. I love you, and I won't stand by and watch you die, for part of me would die with you. Better to surrender a full life than linger with half of one." She leaned forward, kissing him tenderly. "You are my heart, Athgar," she whispered.

"And you, mine," he choked out.

Their moment together was interrupted when they heard raised voices outside the barred window.

"What's that?" asked Athgar.

"The hangman, most likely," she said.

"No," said Athgar, "Brother Cyric said they prefer beheadings, remember? At least death will be quick."

The door to the jail was thrown wide open, and two men wearing plate armour entered. Their blue surcoats were emblazoned with a white sun, making the prisoners wonder who these knights might be.

One stayed by the door while the other came closer to their cell, unlocking it.

"Come with us," the man ordered.

Athgar staggered to his feet with Natalia's help. She led the way, Athgar leaning heavily on her shoulder as they left the cell, watched intently by their new visitors. The sun was high in the sky, the warmth pleasant on their skin as they exited the building to be met by Brother Cyric, flanked by men in the same blue and white surcoats. The Mathewite moved forward, embracing them both.

"Brother Cyric?" said Athgar.

Cyric backed up, tears clearly visible on his face. "I'm so glad you're both alive," he said.

"I don't understand," said Natalia, "are we not under arrest?"

"No," answered Cyric, "and we have a Life Mage on the way."

"Who are these people?" asked the Therengian.