“Now go,” the General said. “Should you succeed…”

  His eyes lingered on her in a way that made the meaning obvious.

  “We will discuss other matters when we meet again.”

  He leaned back slightly.

  “Good luck.”

  Rong stepped closer, her hands resting lightly against the ptes of his chest armor as she smiled politely.

  “Excellency,” she said calmly, “your other hand seems reluctant to let me leave.”

  The General’s grin widened as his grip tightened for a moment.

  Rong closed her eyes and waited.

  After a second, he ughed quietly and released her.

  “Let them know you are mine,” he said, his voice low and amused.“They will ransom you back unharmed.”

  Rong gave a small nod.

  Then she turned and left the pagoda.