12. The Prisoner“What’s she doing?” said Bess excitedly, studying the figure for a few seconds intently.
“She’s in charge,” said Sabienn, without taking his eyes off her.
“No,” said Bray definitely. “Look at her shoulders. She’s been stripped of all rank.”
“What?” called Sabienn. It was true. It took Sabienn a few more seconds peering but her uniform had all markings of office removed. It was still the same short and stocky form that he had always known with her hair tidy and pulled back. But she was no longer a Lieutenant. She wasn’t even a Private. She was nothing. He also noted that her hands were not fashionably demure in front of her. They were bound, probably with ties.
“She’s a prisoner,” said Bray.
Sabienn felt the friendly back of a hand to gain his attention. “Is she OK?” sa
