ng!" Philippe gnashed his teeth in response.

----------------------

In the room, Andre bid farewell to Edith, embracing her tightly and saying,"Forgive me, my love. How I hate to leave you! But the committee''s orders are absolute."

"Why not let me go together with you, Andre?" Edith looked up at him, her eyes pleading.

He shook his head solemnly."Vendée is in unrest. I cannot put you in danger."

"You''ve seen my courage! Whatever you can face, I can face it too!" Edith retorted loudly.

"After we get in Vendée, there are no carriages, Edith. We have to ride on horses through maze-like forests and ravines. Rebel guerrillas could snipe at any moment."

"I''ve ridden horses before in the countryside! I can jump over fences nearly one meter high! I fear nothing!" Edith said with pride.

Andre hesitated for a moment and nodded."Very well."

He took out a dagger and a small pistol from the drawer and handed them to Edith.

"Then keep these two things with you at all the time. Can I trust you to protect yourself, Edith?" He gazed at her seriously.

"Of course." The young girl smiled proudly.

---------------------

In the forest of Vendée, the leaves have already fallen, baring the naked branches, creating an atmosphere of solemnity and foreboding.

Edith rode her horse with body straight, her first venture out into the wilderness a thrilling experience.

Andre and Philippe rode ahead and behind her. She couldn''t see their expressions, but she could sense the tense and h