"Why is she wet?" Historia asked as she touched a sopping lock of Claudette's hair.
"Wouldn't wake up. Splashed water on her."
A look of mild irritation flitted across her expression. But she quickly covered it with a dreamy smile.
"You must have so many questions, princess…" Historia intoned.
"I can assure you that they will all be answered in due course."
She swept her hand out and motioned to the opened cell beside them. The guard sniffed and lifted his hand for another pass across his nose. Claudette's arm was free for but a moment, and with her mind clearer after the walk, reflexes somewhat restored, her fist connected with Historia's nose with all the swiftness of an adder.
"Red Mother!"
The jailor roared and wrenched her away, but the damage was already done.
Claudette managed to break her fall with a roll as the man tossed her into the cell. The bars slammed shut behind her, followed by the frantic jangle of keys.
