“Take it as your guide,” he said. “Speer is southeast of here. It’ll be a long swim.” “What are you talking about?” she demanded. “We’ll swim together. You’ll guide me.” His hand closed around her fingers. He held them tight for a moment and then let go. “No,” he said. “I’ll finish my duty.” Panic twisted her insides. “Altan, no.” She couldn’t stop the onslaught of hot tears, but Altan wasn’t looking at her. He was gazing out at the assembled army. “Tearza didn’t save our people,” he said. “I couldn’t save our people. But this comes close.” “Altan, please . . .” “It will be harder for you,”
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