No. I would not second guess myself. To marry Ozath would be to submit the rest of my life to living in Hamath under Dwairian’s empire. It would be like giving away the key to lock me in, all without a fight. I would not let myself be locked up, not if I had any choice in the matter.
All the shouting had awoken the children. Ignoring me as I passed by her, Nelle hushed them and told them to dress for breakfast.
Without her seeing, I grabbed the two loaves of bread I had baked the day before, as well as some apples and dried venison—whatever was easily within reach—and put them in my satchel. I wished to say goodbye to the children, but could not stay any longer, especially if Nelle had sent for Malech.
I went out the side door, walking as calmly and quickly as I could. The dawn sky glow
