It was becoming difficult to see the creases and irregularities in the face of the canyon walls. “They can’t be far ahead,” Murat said to Victoire. “Unless they are behind us,” she suggested. “No,” Roustam-Raza declared. “I would have seen them. They are ahead of us still.” He lowered his voice. “And therefore we must go softly. We do not want to alert them.” “A wise precaution,” said Murat. “And while we’re employing wisdom, I think it might be best if we find a place where you women can wait for us. And keep our mounts as well.” He glanced at Lirylah. “The English may be armed, and I won’t expose you to that danger.” He tapped the pistol tucked into his belt. “I am prepared for a fight, but you are not.” “Four is better than two,” said Victoire, feeling cheated of victory. Murat gave her the courtesy of a candid response. “If any harm should come to either of you, I would find it intolerable. And if either of you were used as a shield, I would have to surrender all.”
