Heading Back to Artazia

I say my farewells to Hendrik. "Thank you for all your kindness," I say, and kiss him on the cheek,

"Anyone would have done the same," he says modestly (and I am sure inaccurately). He then sets off to walk home. He has refused the coachman's offer to give him a lift. "It's only five miles to the village, plus another four or so to my home. That's nothing. You should remain here, to care for your master. He ought not to be left alone in his condition."

Once Hendrik has left, Teran and I mount up on his horse, with me in front as before. We say goodbye to the faithful old retainer (I never did learn his name), and then Teran kicks the horse into a trot and we leave the castle behind.

"I think you're mad to return to Artazia," he tells me. "But it's your decision. At least it means another job for me. And Lord Richard paid me in advance, too."

"Oh? I didn't know that."

"He arranged for the coachman to slip me the money when you weren't looking. Considering how hard up he seemed, I think it must have been a nest egg that he was keeping for emergencies. It's a pity that your jewelry was stolen. It would have paid for this."

I remind myself that, though I like and trust Teran, he is a mercenary. He is in this for the money, not any more noble motive.

1. "Before we reach Artazed [the capital - 2045], we should see about disguising you," Teran goes on. "Your pale skin is far too obvious. You ought to have it dyed with something semi-permanent. Your hair should be dyed too, and the style changed."

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