11
JAK SADDLED HIS TUSKIN and brushed off the dust of the beast before leading him out of the stables. His pack was slung over his shoulder. Ebere was right behind him, leading his own tuskin.
“Ready?” Ebere asked.
They both noticed Xeku standing on the path.
“I need a minute,” Jak said.
Xeku stood in front of his mount, stroking his nose.
“Your mother is unwell,” Xeku said. It wasn’t a question, and he didn’t expect an answer.
“I’ll be back as soon as I can. Rasha will be on her own with the spy while I’m away.”
“She’ll be looked after. No harm will come to her.”
“She’s not ready to accept it yet, but I’m in love with her.”
“Then you must tell her the truth.”
Jak shook his head. “I can’t tell her now, not like this. It will keep until I return.”
Xeku nodded, but not in agreeme
