“The answer could be that they did not expect anyone to come to Bayguard’s aid,” Kettricken said succinctly. “They have the town to pillage for supplies, and perhaps other ships are expected.” She turned to Kerf, motioned him alongside Foxglove. “I have no battle experience,” she said simply. “You two will have to plan this. I listen now, as a soldier. What should we do next?”
I saw Burrich wince. Such honesty is admirable, but not always good leadership. I saw Foxglove and Kerf exchange measuring glances. “My queen, Kerf has more battle experience than I. I would accept his command,” Foxglove offered quietly.
Kerf looked down, as if mildly ashamed. “Burrich was Chivalry’s man. He has seen far more battles than I have,” he observed to his mare’s neck. He looked up suddenly. “I commend him to you, my queen.”
Burrich’s face was a struggle of conflicting emotions. For a moment his eyes lit. Then I saw a hesitation build.
Heart of the Pack, they will hunt well for you, Nighteyes urged him.
“Burrich, take command. They will fight with heart for you.”
My skin prickled to hear Queen Kettricken virtually echo Nighteyes’ thought. From where I sat, I could actually see a shiver run over Burrich. He straightened in his saddle. “We have no hope of surprising them in this flat country. And the three circles they have already gained can become defenses for them. We are not a vast force. What we have most of, my queen, is time. We can pen them. They have no access to fresh water. If Bayguard stands, and we keep the Outislanders trapped where they are, between the third earthwork and the wall, we can simply wait for our ships to arrive. At that time we can judge if we wish to join an attack on them, or simply starve them out.”