Before they left Ella took one last look at the view from the terrace outside the Poltoi Palace. Once again the moon was out, but this time the shimmer on Lake Hapalusa was closer, and even the sparkling stars were reflected on the water. Ella's hand was still held in the prince's, but she didn't let go; she'd seen so much horror and death this day that his touch held a strong affirmation of life.

The prince spoke as they walked. "I received a message today," he said. "Something I have been saving for you."

Ella turned her head sharply. "What message?"

"The allied army of Alturans and Halrana has crossed the Sarsen into occupied Halaran. Your brother, the Lord Marshal, led his men to a great victory. They have salvaged many Halrana constructs and they have a thousand of the small hunters with them."

"Dunfolk," Ella said. Could it be true?

"Yes, Dunfolk," the prince said, squeezing her hand. "Not only do they have Dunfolk archers with them, but they have Alturan archers of their own, carrying a new weapon they call a rail-bow. These weapons have proven to be decisive, and the Lord Marshal is penetrating deeper into Halaran. Some say he is heading directly for Ralanast."

"Truthfully?" Ella said. "Do I have your word?"

"Ella, do you need to ask?"

Miro! Ella felt tears come to her eyes at hearing her brother was not only alive and safe, but actually pushing the enemy back. "That's… That's wonderful news." Ella said.

Perhaps there was some end to this war in sight after all. Ella thought about Bartolo and Shani, desperately locked together in embrace. There was still love in the world, even amidst the horror. She thought about herself, and the little experience she'd had with love. After the day of bloodshed, the terror stronger than any she'd felt before, didn't she deserve to feel someone warm beside her?

Prince Ilathor led her to the wrought-iron gates of a three-storied stone building. Some Hazaran guards nodded and placed their hands on their hearts when the prince and Ella walked through the gates, following a paved path through a garden to the door of the manse.

Without knocking, Prince Ilathor pushed open the door, holding it open so Ella could walk in, and then allowing it to shut behind them.

"Tish-tassine," the prince said, and instantly nightlamps set into the walls and ceiling lit up from one end of the manse to the other.

"I suppose I should get to bed," Ella said. "Where is everyone?"

"The master of the manse and his family have vacated at my request," Prince Ilathor said. "There is no one here but you and me."