"'They'?"
"Southland troops." Tian glowered at the glassy walls as he plodded between them. The rising wind through the narrow channel lifted his hair and snapped at his clothing. "Thousands. Well disciplined. Loyal to Father. Not like mine... Learned when I got here. Worthless rabble, won't fight 'til their own borders are overrun. Only my Household Guard worth calling an army, and they don't trust me. Bring them here, take the Mountain of Witches, then they'll be loyal." He raised his head, grinning wolfishly. "Didn't count on luck. Gods, what luck! Rich valley, natural fort, hundreds of pretty women, eager for men... Oh, we'll take good care of you, my princess. Good care." He patted her arm, not easing his grip.
From somewhere on the cliffs above came the faintest echo of sweet, crue
