First thing you do, he told the officer, is make sure none of your men speak to anyone outside the camp. Our presence isnt to be discussed at all. Our enemies have spies everywhere. Most arent human. A stray dog, a bird, a shadow could carry tales. Every man has to understand that. We cant be discussed. Well take different names and become ordinary troopers.

I dont quite understand, sir.

I dont think I can explain. Take us being here as proof. Im back, escaped from captivity, and I need to reach the main army. I cant alone, even disguised. Do you have men who know how to ride?

A few, possibly. Puzzled.

These horses have to be returned to the new fortress. Hopefully before the hunt starts. Theyre a dead giveaway. Their riders should make no stops and should disguise themselves. We dont want them identified with this company.

Croaker had not discussed plans while travelling because someone might hear. But the prince got the drift quickly. Youre going to march this company down to Dejagore?

Yes. You and I will be archers in the ranks.

The prince groaned. I have less experience walking than riding.

And I have a tender ankle. We wont push. While Croaker talked his gaze darted, seeking the potential listener. He continued talking to the officer. Again and again he tried to drive home the need for the archers to keep quiet about their mission till they found Ladys army. One slip could kill them all. He made it sound like the Shadowmasters had all their men and demons out trying to destroy him and the prince and anyone with them.

True in theme, anyway.

The officer rounded up volunteers to return the stallions, impressed them with the need to deliver the animals rapidly, without telling anyone where Croaker and the prince had gone. He sent them off.

Croaker sighed. I feel safer already. Get me a turban and some Shadar clothes and something to darken my hands and face. Prince, you look more Gunni.

Half an hour later they were ordinary archers except for accents. Croaker became Narayan Singh. Half the Shadar alive were Narayan Singh. The prince adopted the name Abu Lal Cadreskrah. He felt it would shield him from scrutiny because it suggested mixed Vehdna and Gunni parentage, which could only mean that his mother had been a Gunni prostitute. No one in his right mind would think the Prahbrindrah Drah could demean himself that far.

Croaker chuckled. Maybe so. Get some rest. Use that horse liniment. Well pull out as soon as we get stores and transport together.

A day and a half later, grimly silent, ready for anything, the archers crossed the river. Croaker grew more fearful and excited by the hour. How would Lady react when he turned up alive?

He was scared of the answer.

Chapter Sixty-Two

Chapter Sixty-Two