Still now, the maiden asked, “And what would I do at this time for the cause of faith, Reverend?”

“Obey your mother and your -”

She turned. “Honor. I am to honor them, and this I will do for the first soldier that I slay on that field will die with their name upon my lips.” Back to the weapons she turned and began to fasten a belt about her waist. “But obey them in this instance I will not, for God has led me to another road.”

“God? Or Arthur?”

Fully armed, she faced the woman who had spoken. “It is difficult to understand, I know, but your son is not the boy he was when we left. He is of God. And I, and all the others, would follow him to whatever end.”

Hand on her sword hilt, she left the room behind her.