Ventus by Karl Schroeder

Karl Schroeder / Ventus / Page 297
gather the wood.
When Jordan staggered back his first load of sticks,
nowhere to be seen. "I apologize for my niece," said Suneil.
"She lost her parents and sister recently. The shock has
brought all her emotions to the surface."
"The war?"
Suneil nodded. "The war. We fled Iapysia three months
queen is defeated... maybe things have settled down."
forever." He longed for home. Once he had gotten Armiger to
manor.
"Well spoken," said Suneil. "You were patient with her
imposition, but--"
happen. We have to help one another."
Suneil grinned. "Thanks. And thanks for the wood.
border."
"Why?"
Suneil glanced at him, raised an eyebrow. "Well, you
desert, wouldn't you?"
"Uh... yes, of course."
Suneil gave him an odd little smile, and walked away.