CLXXXII. Keep Up with the Rhythm

The night was clear and the stars sparse; this hilly region was seldom traveled by men. The rolling slopes were gentle enough for horseback riding to be unrestrained. In order not to draw attention, Black Sail and his crew did not light a bonfire for cooking, merely eating dried meat instead.

The horses were all tied up in the woods.

Everyone concealed themselves amongst the trees, waiting to strike tomorrow.

"Born to poverty, illiterate, with empty coffers and mounting debts. Steady now! We've got everything under control!"

Liszt was in the midst of rallying the troops before the battle, dousing his head with a bottle of wine in the cold December weather.

"Everyone thinks you're finished, your family is ready to start over with a new account, and the neighbors in your village are all laughing at you! Only Uncle Te is seriously helping you plan!