Orlina

If Orlina ran, they might not be able to catch her before the Ghost took her.

The Robin And The Kestrel Lackey, Mercedes 1993

But as the hours passed, and Orlina did not appear, Robin began to wonder just what had happened to the woman.

The Robin And The Kestrel Lackey, Mercedes 1993

Once they had restocked, they could go on, and hope to catch Orlina before she actually reached the Abbey.

The Robin And The Kestrel Lackey, Mercedes 1993

It was the lady's leanness that had fooled her into thinking Orlina was older; there was not even a single strand of gray in her hair, and the muscles beneath the dress had been as strong as an acrobats.

The Robin And The Kestrel Lackey, Mercedes 1993

It was Orlina, indeed, and she paid no attention whatsoever to the horses bearing down on her.

The Robin And The Kestrel Lackey, Mercedes 1993

"I've long suspected something of the sort," Orlina said grimly; there were dark circles under her eyes, and a bruise on one prominent cheekbone but she showed no other outward signs of weariness or damage.

The Robin And The Kestrel Lackey, Mercedes 1993

Only one thing Orlina had no trouble believing; that the High Bishop had such a convenient way for disposing of those who caused him trouble.

The Robin And The Kestrel Lackey, Mercedes 1993

Jonny was quite certain that there was nothing left but the bare walls by the time Orlina appeared, herself bundled up like so much loot, bound and gagged and carried in the ungentle hands of the two men who had first broken down her door.

The Robin And The Kestrel Lackey, Mercedes 1993

"Allow me," Orlina said, and pulled a silk handkerchief out of her sleeve like a magician.

The Robin And The Kestrel Lackey, Mercedes 1993

Orlina looked as if she was about to give them an argument, then looked down at her hands again.

The Robin And The Kestrel Lackey, Mercedes 1993