Ventus by Karl Schroeder

Karl Schroeder / Ventus / Page 552
assumed Lavin would fail. The thought made him laugh.
"What are you laughing at?" demanded Galas. "Is my
humiliation so comforting to you?"
laugh at you, nor hold you in contempt. You are my dearest
ideal and the only woman I have ever loved. Your pride and
listen--we have time as we walk back to discuss terms. Our
terms, not the terms of Royalty versus Parliament."
"What do you mean? Ah, that hurts!"
"Sorry, your majesty."
"Lead on, Enneas." The thief walked ahead, lantern
raised. Lavin picked up a second lantern, leaned close to
Galas, and whispered, "I mean that I am, and always have
the commander of the army that controls your nation, and I am
your most loyal servant. This is the moment I have worked for
ever since I took charge of the war against you. I am yours, my
army is yours, all the resources of Parliament are at our
command. All we need do is deceive them as to your
capitulation while we rebuild the Royalist power base in secret.
You will be queen again, Galas!"
She stopped. "Lavin, you amaze me."
"Thank you, your highness."
"Please raise your hands, general," said a voice behind
them.
pointed the alien weapon at Lavin.
The fluttering rage that he had so carefully kept at bay
overcame Lavin. He drew his sword and leaped at Armiger
with a cry.