Continued from S3-4-9: The Challenge of the Siletah. Syn opened the door in answer to the demanding pounding, sword in hand and fully prepared to turn back what ever fool, or fools, had come to challenge him with the full measure of his wraith, but banked down his rage as Nykira stormed into the room past him. Her elegant attire befitting an Ilmioran noble lady was gone, and in its place she wore tight breeches, boots and a short tunic of soft leather armor, with a fine broadsword hung at her hip. “My pompous bastard of an uncle cast me out!” she raged as she dropped her traveling pack and turned to face him. “He blamed me for my cousin’s involvement in the cult… When it was Narre who recruited me! Not even my own mother would believe me!” Her rage gave way to heartbreak with the last statement, but she fought down the tears that welled up in her eyes. The cultists who fled at the sight of Capello’s demon had run straight to the families they defiled with their own actions, bringing the city guard and the priests of Law down upon the hidden temple. The city’s officials were less interested in the truth then diverted blame from their own citizens, so Syn and Rynard were made scapegoats and ordered from the city by tomorrow morning. While Senator Slorg would have pursed their blood over his son, if Verga had not confirmed that it was Capello who forced the final confrontation. “You are leaving Oberlorn then?” Syn inquired, motioning to her pack, while he continued to admire how her new garb flattered her slender, yet shapely, and well toned figure. “I’m going with you when you leave in the morning,” she replied as if he should have known that already. It really didn’t matter that her uncle had banished her; she had intended to join them when they left anyway. Those few moments when her life hung on a razor’s edge was the first time she had truly felt alive… and she wanted more! “Those who tie their fate to mine are often not long for this world… whether they are foes or friends,” he warned her. He had outlived many companions, and Blade’s recent departure had troubled him more then he was willing to admit… even to himself. “Rynard has traveled with you for years and seem no worse for it,” she retorted defiantly. Then she smiled coyly and adopted a more capricious tone. “I’m leaving in the morning. If not in your company then alone, and you wouldn’t have me wander the open road alone, would you? Not after you’ve seen all that I have to offer.” He smiled slyly at her inference. She was a breathtaking beauty, and he had bedded her once already, but he could find a comely wench in any tavern or inn. Yet he knew she had more to offer then just nights of pleasure; she had shown both spirit and courage… and the open road was no place for a young lady to wander alone. “Remind me of… all that you have to offer,” he demanded playfully with a wicked smile as he reached out and lifted her chin, angling her face up to his, while lowering his lips to claim hers. To be continued on S3-4-11: A New Day Dawns. The tenth installment in the fourth book of my Stormbringer characters' adventures. Thanks for looking... Hope you enjoy! Comments and suggestions always welcome and appreciated!