Without her children, the woman filled the doorway. At this time of day, there were no lamps lit inside. The gloom behind her emphasized her broad frame, her thick arms. It did nothing to soften the alarm in her eyes or the tension around her mouth.

“Forgive us, Majesty,” she said as if the words were as heavy as stones. “We did not expect you. How could we?”

While the King searched for a reply, she seemed to realize that he was holding one of her boys. Abruptly, she surged forward, took the child from his arms. Then she retreated to the doorway and stood there as if she needed the support of the doorposts. Or as if she wanted to prevent Bifalt from carrying his severity into her home.

Her mouth quivered as she said, “You came to tell me my husband is dead.”

At once, Bifalt shook his head. “No, my lady.” Finally, he managed to soften his tone. “I came to tell you that he died for your sake, and for your children.”

She made one small sound like a swallowed sob. Tears filled her eyes. Her whole body seemed to wait for a blow that might kill her.

At that moment, Bifalt wanted nothing more than to turn away. Instead, he straightened his spine, squared his shoulders. He was Belleger’s King. He could have asked almost anyone to deliver this hurt for him. He had chosen to inflict it himself.

Long ago, the traitor Slack had told him, A man is not a man at all if he cannot enter every chamber of himself.

“I was not present,” he said hoarsely, almost whispering, “but I have heard the tale. The men who witnessed his sacrifice speak of him with wonder.

“He opposed the enemy in your name. His power was extraordinary. Its effects killed him, but they were not wasted. With his Decimate, he did more than cannon and lightnings to slow the enemy’s advance. His courage will never be surpassed.”

Clutching her boy with his face nestled against her neck, Pillion’s wife met Bifalt’s gaze again. “Enough.” Her voice trembled like her lips. Tears streaked her cheeks. “You have said enough. You can go. You cannot help us now.”

King Bifalt felt that his forehead was splitting. He stayed where he was.

“No, my lady. I have not said enough. I did not command your husband to give his life. I would have forbidden him. I will command you in his place.

“You must take your children and depart. You cannot remain here. A new home will be provided for you in Maloresse. An escort will come for you when Land-Captain Erepos hears that you are ready. A great army means to destroy this city. I will not allow you to remain in its path. How else can I repay my debt to your husband?”