Leah's face had gone from pale to red with rage. Her eyes appeared damp, but she did not cry. She didn't seem to know what to do or say.

"Your story is full of holes," said Zechariah. "Why would these soldiers take the long, hard road to Nolia through these mountains when they could easily return back over the plains?"

"There are those who oppose Asher," said Olorus. "I think the prime minister hoped to sneak the princess into the country discreetly on the lesser-watched ...