As we stand at the base of the grand staircase leading to the fifth floor, a thin trickle of blood cascades down the steps. We watch, silent, as the crimson beads hesitate at the lip of the last step. One fat bead finally plops down, followed by a few more in rapid succession, until it's coming down in a steady trickle.

"That's, uh... that's a lot of blood."

Gerude gives Erynn one of the most exasperated looks I've ever seen an Armed toss a Poet's way. It's rather reminiscent of the ones I see Jhe h'Akribastes level at Jhe h'Logos when my King is being particularly helpful. Erynn raises his eyebrows and shrugs. "What? It is."

"How many are up there?" I ask, heading off any lovers spat before it has a chance to start. Gerude gets that typical pinched look on his face as he consults his Arms, then shakes his head.