"One may as well ask `Why do we resist when we cannot win?' That makes just about as much sense." It was Amrhost, who had come to join them.
"War seldom makes sense," Dorain replied without turning around. "When all is said and done, one could spend a lifetime trying to answer `Why.'"
"I have often thought," said Amrhost, "that it is a bit like hiding."
Dorain stiffened. "I'm sure it is for some," she said in a low voice."
Amrhost shrugged, and left them.
"I am sorry," said Lily apologetically, "I didn't realize he was listening."
"Don't be," Dorain replied. "He is right, though. It's easy to forget your own problems as well as your own responsibilities and everything else in times of war."
Lily was said nothing, but digested this in silence for some time.
Dorain sighed. "Sometimes I forget that there are differences between ourselves and the enemy. In some ways we are not so very different, you know. At least not in battle, when we're striving to kill one another. The difference is when the fighting's over . . . that is, assuming that it is ever over. I only wish-"
"Yes?" said Lily.
"Hush! I thought I saw something." There was no sound except a light plashing, as though far-off. Dorain was about to rise for a better look when there was a loud Thunk! A black arrow protruded from the wood between the two girls. "Ware!" shouted Dorain. "They are paddling logs out into the current! Archers cling to them, laying low!"