Klamath could have wept then. He knew the First Captain’s pain. In his own way, he shared it. He had watched the Open Hand die. But what Hegels wanted was impossible.

Softly, the General said, “Forgive me, sir. I do not mean to shame you. But I know more than I have told you.” He had heard it from Magister Avail. “Rile’s infantry will come here. His cavalry has gone to claim this road. It will be his before we can reach the caravan-track and the last bridge.

“We cannot help Amika.” Or ourselves.

Aching, he watched Hegels’ certainty crumble. Behind its weather-beaten surface, the First Captain’s face lost blood. His posture sagged as his passion drained away.

Rowt and Hellick said nothing. What could anyone say?

After a moment, Hegels turned away. As he went to his horse, he stumbled. But he was too weak to reach the saddle. Leading his mount by the reins, he walked unsteadily back to the men he was supposed to command.

“He will rally, sir.” Hellick did not sound sure.

Klamath hoped so. When his riflemen had taken their positions scattered over the foothills, he could not be everywhere. He needed Hegels.

Later, Klamath watched the First Captain gather the Magisters for their ride to the Repository. Hegels had resumed his duties despite his chagrin. That gave the General a measure of reassurance.

Then Captain Rowt called for his attention. The young officer was peering up at the foothills as if he had caught a glimpse of movement.

At first, Klamath saw nothing. His eyes were no longer young. “Captain?” he inquired.

Studying the slope, Rowt murmured, “General, sir. I thought I saw a man. Up on that rim.” He drew a sudden breath, a quick gasp of air. “Several men.” A beat later, he added, “They may be Amikan.”

They stood at the lip of the outcropping. Klamath could see them now.

They appeared to be waving. And cheering?

Beyond question, they were Amikan. And soldiers. Sunlight made exclamations of their orange headbands. They must have come with Queen Estie.

Klamath turned away so that Rowt would not see his tears.

He was still wrestling with his unruly heart when the Queen spoke to him again.

Forgive another intrusion, Klamath, she said. I lack the means to ask your permission.

She had it whether she knew it or not.

The Magisters here assure me that you are on the road below the Repository. You have had a terrible journey. You and your men must have many needs. Prepare a list and send it to me. They will be met.

After a moment, she added, In what comes, your mounts will be a hindrance. Servants will come for them. The Repository will keep them safe.

She paused once more, apparently collecting her own thoughts. When she resumed, her voice had a sharper edge.