“I’m on my way. I usually have no trouble slipping in and out. The sentries are used to seeing me move around the camp.” Her lips twisted. “I think they believe Masenak is saving me for himself.” She added bitterly, “In a way, they’re right.” Sasha moved quickly in the direction of the creek. “But I don’t want Alisa worrying, either. Having me here has been almost as bad for her as for me.”

“She wouldn’t agree.” Yet that tie between Sasha and Alisa was incredibly strong, and it always amazed Margaret. When she had brought the two together, she had never thought that the affection would grow to become this warm, unbreakable bond. Two lonely people who had somehow found each other among the tumult. They were both so wary about giving affection that it was a true wonder it had happened. But that bond could also be dangerous for both of them when they were brought to confront the Masenaks of the world. They were too intense; the instinct to dive in and never let go, too powerful.

She’s already reached her tent. We’re done here, aren’t we?

Juno’s reminder was polite but pointed, she realized. In other words, stop dragging your feet. She felt a smile tugging at her lips as she picked up the pace to leave the camp behind. Yes, we’re done here…for now. Thank you for calling it to my attention.

*  *  *

Maldara Border

“You’ve been out here for hours. Shouldn’t your Margaret be back by now?”

Alisa looked over her shoulder to see Korgan standing in the shadows a few yards away. “It depends on how far she had to go out of the way to avoid the sentries. It might even be another couple of hours. Margaret knows what she’s doing. I told you she wouldn’t take chances. Spooking Masenak would ruin everything for us. So go away and take a nap or something.”

“I don’t want to take a nap. I’m bored, and I thought I’d come over here and have you entertain me.” He strolled toward her, and now that he was in stark moonlight, she could see that his expression was intent but no longer antagonistic. “Don’t you want to tell me another outrageous story to amuse me?”

“I’m not in the mood. I’ve reached the end of my repertoire.”

“Maybe you need inspiration. You’re probably hungry. I notice you didn’t eat anything tonight.” He was holding out something to her. “I found some bananas in that hut. They’re just ripe enough. I thought I’d bring you one.”

She stared at him in bewilderment. “A banana? I don’t want it. Why would you do that?”