and you know what that means. Zufa drew herself taller, looking at him with a glimmer of uncertainty and compassion. Get yourself to safety, Aurelius. The cymeks don't care about you.
 
A sudden determination filled his face. I will organize the evacuation. We can hide in the jungles, take care of anyone who needs special help to get away. My men have supply caches, shelters, processing huts --
 
Zufa seemed pleasantly surprised at his strength. Good. I leave the unskilled ones in your hands.
 
Unskilled ones? Now was not the time to argue with her. Venport searched for some sign of fear in her eyes. He spoke softly in response, an attempt to mask his feelings. Are you going to sacrifice yourself?
 
I cannot. Zufa showed pain at the admission. Who would train the Sorceresses if I did? He did not entirely believe her.