Ramey said firmly, "No, Lake! I was glad you came along with us through the tunnel. But this is my job. Because not only is the Bow in Ravana's quarters but—Sheila is there, too. You won't understand, but—she means more than anything else to me."
Lake returned his gaze quietly. For once there was no smile on his lips. He said, "But I do understand, Ramey. Perfectly. Because, you see, I have known Sheila Aiken for a long time, too."
"But you don't feel—" began Ramey hotly. Then he stopped, comprehension finally drawing upon him, sympathy and embarrassment suddenly warm upon his cheeks. "Oh! So it—it's that way? I'm sorry, Lake. I didn't realize—"
"Neither does she," said Lake O'Brien. "But that's the way it is, Ramey. And always has been."
Tauthus of Cush was staring at them curiously. Now he said, "I do not quite understand, Lord Ramaíya. What are you going to do?"
And Ramey Winters answered, "It is a two man job we face. Lake and I are both going...."
CHAPTER XVII
The Love of Lady Rakshasi
In the period that ensued, Ramey had reason to be glad that Lake O'Brien had insisted on accompanying him.