one in each hand, and use them like shears. Velion nodded. Right. Now, these left-handers . . . ? Soldier, explained what he wanted them for. She nodded, You never cease to amaze me with your ideas, she said. They called up the troops and went along the line with a sergeant-at-arms. Soldier paired them off with each other and told them to practice their sword-work on each other. He knew what he was looking for: a slight awkwardness in the use of arms. When he saw it he called the man or woman forth and asked one question. Are you naturally left-handed? If the answer was yes, which invariably it was, he sent that warrior aside, to Lieutenant Velion. Soldier knew that in most - if not all armies, left-handers are taught to fight right-handed. For a soldier to fight successfully in formation a spear and sword needed to be worn and used on one side only, otherwise a warrior would tangle with his neighbour. However, if the whole contingent was left-handed, there was no reason why that group should not favour their left side for weaponry. When they had enough warriors, Soldier told Velion to get them accustomed to using their weapons left-handed. Where are you going? she asked. To see my wife, Soldier said. Layana, back in the Green Tower, heard Soldier ask Ofao quietly if his mistress was at home. He actually wanted to know if she was in her right mind. My mistress is well, master, came back Ofaos voice. She awaits you in the White Room. A moment later Soldiers form was in the doorway, tall, lean, with tangled dark hair hanging to his shoulders. My husband! she said, throwing herself into his arms. He kissed her face a hundred times without stopping for breath. Then he hugged her so close it took the breath from her lungs. Oh - oh - I dont know what I would have done if you were ill, he murmured into her ear. I need you so much at the moment. Just at the moment? she teased. For ever and aye, he said, pushing her back so that he could see her more clearly. Your hair smells so - what is it? Rosemary? Jasmine? She laughed. You never were very good with your scents and perfumes. Its musk oil. Of course it is. How are you? You look fine. How beautiful you look these days. Has Kaff been sniffing around here? I ought to kill the dog. Did you send him away? No, hes very good company for me. I know you hate him, but he never tries anything, you know, and I find his conversation interesting and informative . . . Soldier raised his eyebrows. You do? I know a different Kaff. The same. You just dont get the best out of him. You two do nothing but posture like fighting cocks and threaten each other. How can you see what is best in you both? He hates you too, of course, for which I censure him, for you are my beloved husband, and no man who draws a breath do I love more dearly, more devotedly, more passionately. He hugged her again. Oh, how Ive missed you. Show me then, she said, loosening her belt. When they had finished making love, Ofao was summoned with some smoky tea, which they drank slowly. Soldier was lying on the couch with Layana nestled against him. Ive lost the King Magus. I have to get him back. I heard, she said, tensing against the silken pillow. It will be very dangerous. Please take care and return to me. I I wish I could come with you, but . . . But her madness would not allow it. I know. I know. Even if I manage the expedition successfully, the queen has ordered Ordeal by Fire. Now Layana sat bolt upright. What? My punishment for losing the boy. Its only fair. Its monstrous! My husband? Ordeal by Fire? I shall speak to my sister. I shall demand ... Nothing, he interrupted her, soothingly. I have to do this. Thats ridiculous. How how will you do it? Grasp a red-hot iron. I could choose to walk on coals, but my eyes water whenever I think of it. My soles are so tender. I must have been a prince in my former life. Anything less than soft wool against them makes me grit my teeth. I shall grasp the poker with both hands, hold it for
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