“The eight of us can handle the patrols,” Lord Benat said. “We’ll each work half the night in staggered shifts, four of us will be with the men at all times.”

“In that case,” the king said, “each of you will stay at the palace tonight. That way arrangements can be made for each of you to be wakened for your shift.”

“Madigen, you mustn’t take joy in violence,” Zeroun croaked, “Nevertheless, it sounds like a prudent plan.”