“The Turghati have sworn to kill thee,” confided Alcyesta, “and it were not safe for thee nor for thy followers to remain even here in this tower.”
“Before daylight, this place will be surrounded,” added the keeper. “They will suspect thy hiding place. Shouldst thou surrender and stand trial, thou knowest beforehand what the verdict would be.”
“Be advised by me,” pleaded Alcyesta. “For this purpose am I come.”
“Ample provision has been made,” urged the keeper. “Go thou quickly. I fear for thy safety.”
Seeing that Ildiko prepared to accompany them, Yermah turned to her, saying:
“Why art thou here? Thy father is married to Rahula, and will be proclaimed Grand Servitor in a few hours.”
“I know all that thou sayest. But dost thou think I should be allowed to live at Iaqua? If so, thou knowest neither Setos nor Rahula.”
“What is thy purpose?”
“To go with thee and thy followers. Do not, I beseech thee, turn me away, since I should be left to perish miserably.”
“That is thy probable fate with me.”