Chapter Seventeen
When they got back to camp, Liada dismounted and hurried to Kawalski, leading her horse.
“I’m glad to have you back.” He hugged her.
“I have for you a...um, I do not know word.” She took something from behind her saddle and handed it to him.
“Holy s**t, Liada.” Kawalski held in his hands a Roman officer’s sword, scabbard, and wide leather belt. He slid out the sword and admired the engraving on the blade. “Wow, look at the jewels in the handle.” Several rubies and emeralds were embedded in the polished ivory, as well as ringlets of gold and silver inlay. Liada smiled with pleasure as he examined the weapon.
“Do you know how valuable this is?” He replaced the sword and put the belt around his waist, wincing as he cinched it tight. He pulled the sword and ran his finge
