[Child of the 7th Age]

Alahseey gave Freyn a stern look, drew herself up, and scowled, "Fair, he may be. But unless someone acts quickly, many of our companions may died....Elves and Lossoth alike. I am not the spy. But while I sit here trussed up like a game bird, unable to break loose or fight, the real informer is free to weave a web of murder and intrigue. That person must be stopped!"

"Perhaps, Freyn, you and I can come to some agreement. You have known me many years, and we have never had harsh words with each other. I give you my pledge that I will wear my restraints willingly and give you no trouble on our journey back to the ship. I ask but one thing: that you will stand up and speak on my behalf once we reach the ship. I am sure Luindal will call a meeting to inquire into today's treachery. And he will respect our laws and traditions, requiring two men or women to come forth and voice their accusation of me. I do not believe he will find an accuser other than Hilde.

As to the axe, I can explain: it was a filthy trick played by the person who has the most to lose in this situation--the person who is actually responsible for slicing that rope. Most importantly, ask Luindal to listen to my words. I believe I know a way to ferret out this imposter. And, if we are lucky, perhaps one or two others have also seen evidence of this treachery.'

"Can you do that Freyn? I ask you to do nothing dishonorable, nor to break your pledge to the Elf, but merely to speak out on my behalf so that the truth may be heard....."