Helgaer, rested and fed, estimated they might make it back before nightfall if they hurried. Camille moved quickly, dividing her attention between Helgaer and the trail, but not taking the same time as she had on the outgoing journey. They travelled in silence, and returned to the hut with light to spare. They divested themselves of their weapons in silence. Helgaer removed her vest but, with the night turning cool, threw her cloak around her shoulders. Camille stoked the fire before sitting down heavily on the bench. "I thank you for trying to warn me," Helgaer said, "but I must still do this." "I wondered what your reaction would be," Camille said without turning her head. "I told you I had heard of Captain Koda. I told you he was a bastard. Now you know how much of one. I want to see you succeed, but I … do not believe you will." Helgaer sat down slowly. She had almost been expecting a fight, not these flat statements. She was, briefly, at a loss for what to say. Camille sighed, then rubbed her hands over her face.
