“The only monster I’m looking to put down is the war,” Raine said. “Killing a man doesn’t kill a war, Nyx. I understand politics. It’s more than just blowing up a school or chopping off a head. Even if the head’s mine.”

“I told you I wasn’t here to kill you.”

“I have faith in many things, Nyxnissa, but faith in your ability to deliver a man alive to the bel dames? Let’s say that undertaking this journey with you will certainly test my faith to its utmost.”

“I’m sure you can write a book or something about it later.”

She glanced down at his knee. It looked terrible. How he managed to natter on with a shattered knee astounded her. Always full of surprises, Raine. And now he thought he was some fucking prophet. Fatima wanted her to bring a delusional, self-proclaimed prophet back into Nasheen? One Fatima had already tried to kill once?

The hedge witch appeared in the doorway, saving her from further blathering.

“God’s grace, that’s a fine mess,” the hedge witch said in heavily accented Nasheenian.

“You have no idea,” Nyx said.

“It’s that bel dame,” Adeliz said.

Inaya sighed. “Bring tea, please. Perhaps that will dissuade her.” She stood in her communications room, wearing a long dark habit and coat. She had her traveling cap on the table, and a single pack at her feet. They would burn the rest down after them.

Nyx stepped in.

“Everyone lived?” Inaya said lightly. “That must be a first for you.”

“On this trip? Yes.” Nyx stepped up to the table.

Inaya tapped out the pattern that opaqued the information on the slide.

“We’re leaving,” Nyx said.

“And we will part right after you,” Inaya said.

Adeliz came back in, bearing tea. Inaya took her cup. “Tea?” she said.

“Rather drink piss,” Nyx said.

“Thank you, Adeliz,” Inaya said.

“And what have you decided to do with Raine?” Inaya asked.

“He’ll be staying here.”

“What, in Ras Tieg?”

“Best place for him.”

“I don’t understand. Weren’t you supposed to bring him to Nasheen?”

“That’s what we’ll tell them.”

“Who?”

Nyx picked up the tea. Sniffed it. “What is this?”

“Jasmine.”

Nyx sipped it. “Huh,” she said, and took another sip. “Anyway, I need a safe place for Raine for a while. Think your people could watch after him?”

“No.”

“Come on, Inaya. At least until the knee is better. He’s promised me he’ll stay out of your hair.”

“We’re burning this place after us. He can’t stay.”

“I know you can get people smuggled out of here safe. I can’t do that and get back to Nasheen. Help me out. One last time.”

“No.”

“What about Khos? You still in touch with him? He’d know how to get somebody over the border.”