Honor, Steel, and Need

Blaedy produced a handsome challenge bill and, before the ink could dry in spirit, had proposed a village death duel for Saturday. Five minutes, she says, which is the sort of estimate made by a person who expects to be standing at the end of it.

Arrowyy accepted at once, naturally, and immediately began inventorying what Summoneyy might claim from the fallen. Summoneyy declared an interest in every long weapon worth holding, then exempted the ones she cannot use with suspicious generosity. She also intends to arrive with Haaroon and the posture of a woman who has hired thunder to stand behind her.

There was a fine little picture posted of a grim fighter beside a violet ghost in armor. It suited the mood: everybody eager for honor, provided the honor comes with loot rights.