The splinter came free easily enough. Sabine flicked it aside into the water. She did not return Rhajul's look.

"I could," she answered. "I am not a commander. I have rank, not skill in tactics." She brushed her palms together. "Even if I did, I will still have to convince the leaders to spare you. For instance, one thing you have in common with Ri'vashi is that you both know what it is like to lose everything you love." Sabine clutched her fingers. "She was the leader of the clan near Orcrest."