45 You taught me that a woman has a right to be
pleased, too. That a mating is not an enslavement, but the joining of
two souls in a lifetime partnership, each respecting the needs of the
other.
46 My need is to be with you, to see every glorious hour you live, and
to share every danger you endure. By your Lords, this child I
have prayed for for so long will not make me a slave again! I am free,
and I will STAY FREE!"
47 The Hawk stepped back and threw out his arms. "I surrender!" he
cried. "I am defeated! I have finally met my match in battle! You will
have your way. Though I disagree, you have the right to choose your own
Path. If it is to follow after me, then I thank The Lords you
chose it! But I will triple your guard to better insure your safety."
48 "You will not!" snapped The Lady Hawk. "Those brave men that guard
me are quite sufficient, and you need every man for other things. Let's
have no more of this nonsense. I will tell you when it is time for me to
slacken my duties. I promise you, I will never endanger my safety, or,
our child's, unless there is the greatest need."
49 The Hawk took her in his arms. "Come," he ordered, "my master of
supply! We have work to do!"
50 As they emerged back into The Hall everyone rose, clapping. "Do not
feel bad, young man," The King told The Hawk. "You may have lost the
battle, but I guarantee you, you have won this war!" Everyone laughed.
51 The Hawk then realized that they had been raising their voices, and
all in The Hall had heard their conversation. The ladies came forward,
wishing The Lady Hawk well, while the men congratulated The Hawk.
52 As the sun began to rise, the great fleet of ships left from the
harbor. When they were well out of the lake, passed the cheering crowds
that lined the