Page 69 of Tashama
“We cannot have him detained unless there is proof.” The prince turned to Tashama. “And the thieves? What does she tell us about them? Any clues?”
“Not a one, sire.”
“Sire,” a messenger said as he rushed into the room,
“Prince Loran states he will exchange one of your highest-ranking officers—or some other who pleases you—for the girl.”
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“Not good enough.” Tashama played with her braid.
The prince stared at her for a moment, then turned his attention to the messenger. “All or none.”
“Yes, sire.” The messenger hurried out of the room as the prince faced Tashama. “Tell me what your reasoning is.”
“I’m only a woman, sire. I have no reasoning.”
“If he agrees to my demand, I will have to turn you over to him.”
“Honor requires such a sacrifice.”
“He will kill you.”
“We all must die, Your Highness.”
“You are not afraid?”
“I will be free.”
The prince shook his head. “I don’t understand you.”
“Have you no knowledge of our prophecy?”
Carissian shook his head as the prince looked to him for acknowledgment.
“My people believe I will lead them to victory. If I must die to do so, then so be it. I don’t know what fate awaits me. Perhaps this is what the gods have decided.”
“We rule our own destiny,” the prince said.
“In part, yes. We cannot just lie down and expect the gods to live our lives for us. This is true. I will lead my people one way or another. If not in the flesh, my spirit will do the deed.”
Carissian rubbed his chin. “She believes this to be true, Your Highness.”
“She is deluded,” the prince said. “How can I hand over such a creature to Loran?”
“You’ll have no choice.” Tashama stood.
“Return her to her room,” the prince said.
Tashama was led away, and he turned to Carissian. “I want the lady to sleep in my bed tonight. We’ll have one of my guards sleep in the lady’s place.”
“And you, sire?”
“That is none of your concern.”
“You cannot sleep with the princess.”
“I will not touch her.”
