Tomorrow you’ll ride to get the Chalice and—”

“Nay!” he said in good humor, gripping her hand and squeezing hard. “She has no need of a cure. Though not safe in my uncle’s hands, she is well at present. And what of the prince?”

“I saw no one else in the vision,” Alexeika said.

Faldain grunted. “I fear Muncel’s trickery against her and Gavril, yet I will not be held back. At first light, we ride for the border. I’ve already sent a messenger, one of Cardo’s nephews, off to find General Matkevskiet. If we can rendezvous quickly with the Agya warriors, there will be time perhaps to prepare for battle.”

Alexeika blinked, not certain she’d heard aright. “Battle?” “Aye, ‘tis what you’ve been arguing for. If I can assemble an army in time, I’d like to strike Grov on Selwinmas. Let Muncel choke on my sword for his celebratory feast!”