In this troubled north, the two most gifted pupils of Master Anselm had at last found common ground, standing side by side, bound by trust.
Ismerie looked at the youth beside her and smiled faintly.
"Caedmon is a fine name... clear and unburdened. Mine was chosen for me long ago, it feels like chains. I have often wished for another."
Caedmon, who had spent those days learning the ways of the stars and fate, answered simply, "Take a name of your own... one that belongs only to your path."
Ismerie's eyes lit. "From this day forth, let it be 'Merciless'."
Three days later, in the quiet retreat.
"Ismerie!" Leontis woke with a start, sweat beading on his brow, and called her name.
The attendant stepped forward quickly.
"Captain, you have returned to us!"
He looked around, findin
