Kasumi’s eyes came into focus at mention of his name. He said, “Your Highness, I know something of your ways, for Laurie has taught me much. But I am still Tsurani. In our land the officers would be put to death, and the men enslaved. I may not advise you in this matter. I do not know what is the usual method of dealing with war prisoners in your world.”
His tone was flat, without emotion. Lyam was about to say something, but a signal from Pug silenced him. There was something the magician wanted to say. “Kasumi?”
“Yes, Great One?” Tomas looked surprised at the honorific, but said nothing. There had been time only for the most superficial exchange of histories between the two boyhood friends as they had returned to the camp.
“What would you have done if you had not surrendered to the Prince’s custody?”
“We would have fought to the death, Great One.”
Pug nodded “I understand. Then you are responsible for preserving the lives of nearly four thousand of your men? And thousands more Kingdom soldiers?”
Kasumi’s expression softened, revealing his shame. “I have been among your people, Great One. I may have forgotten my Tsurani training. I have brought dishonor upon my house. When the Prince has disposed of my men, I will ask permission to take my own life, though it may be too much of an honor for him to grant.”
Brucal and others looked shocked at this. Lyam showed no expression, but simply said, “You have earned no dishonor. You would have aided no cause in dying. There ceased to be one when the rift was destroyed.”
Kasumi said, “It is our way.”
Lyam said, “No longer. This is now your homeland, for you have no other. What Kulgan and Pug have said about rifts makes it unlikely you shall ever return to Tsuranuanni. Here you will remain, and it is my intention to see that prospect turned to good advantage for us all.”
A faint flicker of hope entered Kasumi’s eyes. The Heir turned toward Lord Brucal and said, “My lord Duke of Yabon. How do you judge the Tsurani soldiers?”
The old Duke smiled. “Among the finest I have ever beheld.” Kasumi showed a little pride at the remark. “They match the Dark Brotherhood for ferocity and are of nobler nature, they are as disciplined as Keshian dog-soldiers and have the stamina of Natalese Rangers. On the whole they are without question superior soldiers.”
“Would an army of such provide additional security for our troubled northern borders?”
Brucal smiled. “The LaMutian garrison was among the hardest hit during the war. They would be a valuable addition there.”
The Earl of LaMut echoed his Duke’s comment Lyam turned to Kasumi. “Would you still take your life if your men could remain freemen and soldiers?”
The Shinzawai son said, “How is that possible, Your Highness?”
“If you and your men will swear loyalty to the crown, I will place you under the command of the Earl of LaMut. You will be both freemen and citizens and will be given the charge to defend our northern border against the enemies of humanity who abide in the Northlands.”
Kasumi sat silently, unsure of what to say. Laurie stepped over to Kasumi and said, “There is no dishonor.”
Kasumi’s face broke into an expression of open relief. “I accept, as I am sure my men will.” He paused, then added, “We came as an honor guard for the Emperor. From what I have heard said here, we have been used by this sorcerer as much as anyone. I would not have any more blood spilled on his account. I thank Your Highness.”
Lord Vandros said, “I think a Knight-Captaincy would be proper for the leader of nearly four thousand Do you agree, my lord Duke?” Brucal nodded in agreement, and Vandros said, “Come, Captain, we should speak with your new command.”
Kasumi rose, bowed to Lyam, and left with the Earl of LaMut. Arutha touched his brother on the shoulder. Lyam turned his head, and the Prince said, “Enough of matters of state. It is time to celebrate the ending of the war.”
Lyam smiled. “True.” He turned to Pug. “Magician, run and fetch your lovely wife and fine son. I would have things that smack of home and family about.”
Tomas looked at Pug “Wife? Son? What is this?”
Pug laughed. “There is much to talk about. We can catch up with each other after I bring my family.”
He made his way to his own tent, where Katala was telling William a story. They both jumped up and ran to him, for they had not seen him since his return. He had sent a soldier with the news that he was well but busy with the Prince.
“Katala, Lyam would like you to join us for dinner.”
William tugged at his father’s robe. “I want to come too, Papa.”
Pug picked up his son. “You too, William.”