Chapter 83

From her perch on the stack of hay arranged at one corner of the field, Cleopoda watched the sunset. The sinking sun cast red and gold light out to the field, it was beautiful and it made her miss home. Because father forbade her from going out of the palace she would sit by the window and look out to the village when the sunset. It always struck her as beautiful but now it was even more beautiful since she didn't have to listen for the sound of Garius' feet, besides she was happy now she had a friend to share the sunset with. Zenas was on his back sleeping lightly after having too much wine to drink. He was happier than she ever was because she trusted Zenas, he trusted her and she knew he would protect her. He already proved that protection when the Saade of Amire considered adding her to his harem. She shuddered to think of what her father would do if the Saade had made that offer to him, he probably would have given her off just to get rid of her.