This is what we are for, Alin, the older guardsman said, turning to his companion. Adare had never heard anyone use Birchs first name. She hadnt even known it herself. Our lives for hers. If she refuses this, theres no saying what the zealots will do to her.Theres no saying what the zealots will do if she agrees, Birch pointed out. We cant save her if were dead.That is a risk that the princess will have to assess for herself. Our duty is to serve.I thought service meant fighting, Birch protested, but the anger had gone out of him. Resignation thinned his voice.Sometimes, Alin, Fulton replied, nodding. And sometimes it means dying.
