SWORDOFLIGHT(Book2oftheJakeThomasTrilogy)

STEVENA.TOLLE

Copyright©2013StevenA.TolleAllrightsreserved.Nopartofthisbook

maybereproducedinanyform,physicalordigital,withouttheexpresswrittenpermissionoftheauthor.

Thisisaworkoffiction.Names,characters,placesandincidentseitheraretheproductoftheauthor'simaginationorareusedfictitiously.Anyresemblance

toactualeventsorpersons,livingordead,isentirelycoincidental.SageVestBooks2215-BRenaissanceDrive,PMB2233

LasVegas,NV89119

CoverbyRoyMigabon

(www.roymigabon.weebly.com)MapsbyCletaGidcumb(www.cletagidcumb.blogspot.com)

TABLEOFCONTENTSAcknowledgementsMapChapterOneChapterTwoChapterThreeChapterFourChapterFiveChapterSixChapterSevenChapterEightChapterNineChapterTenChapterElevenChapterTwelveChapterThirteenChapterFourteenChapterFifteenChapterSixteenChapterSeventeenChapterEighteenChapterNineteenChapterTwentyChapterTwenty-OneChapterTwenty-TwoChapterTwenty-ThreeChapterTwenty-FourAbouttheAuthor

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

IwouldliketothankTimLeffingwell,RichCole,ShellyKidwellandLisaKowalskiforreviewingandproofingthedraftofthebookandofferingsuggestionstomakeitbetter.Idoublyappreciatethemsincetheyfreelyofferedtheirtimeandsetasidethattimeintheirbusylivestohelpme.

ImustacknowledgeRoyMigabon,thecreativetalentbehindthecoversofmybooks,forhisgraspofmyvision.Heisajoytoworkwith.

Finally,mydeepgratitudetomyfriend,CletaGidcumb,forworkingoutsideofhercomfortzonetocreatethemapsthatIuseinthesebooks.

INMEMORIAM

Whileworkingonthisbook,IwasshockedbythesuddenandtragicpassingofSharonHowze,thebelovedwifeofmyfriendofdecades,TedHowze,andlovingmotheroftheirthreesons.Shewasakindandcaringsoul,takenunexpectedly,andshewillbemissed.MaysherestinGod’speace.

DEDICATION

Tothosewhoseek

tobringtheLightintotheworld

MAP

CHAPTERONE

"Princess."KeriaturnedatDominic'ssoftwhisper.HerheartachedasshesawJake

lyinglimpandunmovinginDominic'sarms,tearscomingtohereyesdespiteherattempttobestrong.HehadnotgivenanysignsoflifeotherthantheriseandfallofhischestsincethatfinalbrilliantdisplayofpowerthathadenabledCreatos’destruction.

"YouneedtohelpJonas."Dominicsaidquietly.IntheconfusionfollowingCreatos'demise,theyhadescapedthecliff

fortressandweremakingtheirwayupthesurroundinghillstoentertheforest.Thefewscatteredgroupsofdemonsandhalf-mentheyhadencounteredwerequicklyoverwhelmedbyJonasandHailyn.KeriahadbeenstunnedbythepowerJonaswieldedwhenhefoughtofftheattackers.LikeanavatarofLight,hisdazzlingmagichadforcedbackthedarknessanddestroyedthehalf-menandImpswithseemingease.

LookingpastDominic,shesawJonasinthepalemoonlightstumblealong,clearlyexhausted.Evenso,hecontinuedtoscanthesurroundingareaforanythreat,hisstaffgrippedtightlyinhishand,facedetermined.Evenasshewatched,healmostwentdownashisfootingslipped,butheplantedhisstafftopreventit.

"Gobackandlendhimsupport."Dominiccontinued."Heisoutonhisfeetandmyhandsarefull."

KerianoddedandfellbacktoJonas.Shesteppedcloseandwrappedherarmaroundhiswaist.Jonasgaveheratiredsmileandputhisarmacrosshershouldersastheycontinuedalong.ShesawMarcusturnbackandfrownwhenherealizedthatshewasattherearoftheirline,butheturnedbackafterashort,sharpgesturefromDominic.

Theyreachedthetreelineandmadetheirwayoverthetopoftheriseandintotheforestproper.Keria’seyesandthoughtsturnedbacktoJake,hisheadjustvisiblearoundDominic'sback,rollingslightlywitheverystepDominictook.Hehadriskedeverythingforher,appearinglikeaherofromoneofherstoriestoconfrontthedemonlord.Hehadfoughttorescueherfromafatethatwastooterribletocontemplate.Themerethoughtofitsentcoldshiversthroughherbody.Intheend,hehadusedhisownlifeforceinadesperateattempttosaveherwhenthedemonlordmovedtokillher.SheprayedthatJonascouldhelphim;sheowedhimherlife.

Theycontinuedbacktowherethegrouphadlefttheirhorses,weavingsilentlythroughthetrees.Theycouldhearinthedistancethesoundsofthehalf-menridingtoandfro,punctuatedwithfaintshoutsandcurses.Marcuswassureinhisdirectionandtheyarrivedbackatthestandoftreesthathidtheirhorses.Theyfoundthehorsesunharmed,thoughDominic'swarhorsewaslatheredandhadseverallargewoundsvisibleinthefaintlight.

Safelyintheshelterofthetrees,KeriasawHailynbrieflyembraceherpowerandlayherhandsonthehorse.Keriawatched,fascinated,asthegashesclosedandthestallionshookitshead.AsHailynreacheduptostrokethehorse’shead,shereleasedherpower,plungingtheareabackintodarkness.

"Princess,youtakeJonas'horse;hewillrideDontas."DominicsaidashecarriedJakeovertoShadow.HegentlylaidJakedownnexttothehorse,andthenturnedbackthegroup.HewalkedovertostandinfrontofJonas.

"Youareinnoconditiontofight."Hesaid,lookingintentlyatJonas."Givethegirlyourstaff.Sheappearstobeinbettershapethanyou."

WithoutwaitingforJonastorespond,DominicglancedoveratHailyn."Doyouthinkyoucanprotectthegroup?"Heaskedquietly,tryingtodetermineherstrength.

"Ican,Dominic."Sherepliedresolutely."I'mtired,butnottothepointofexhaustion."

HeturnedbacktoJonas,holdingouthishand.Jonashesitated,butfinallynoddedandplacedthestaffinDominic'shand.DominichandedittoHailyn,andthenhelpedJonasovertoDontas.Dominichelpedhimintosaddleandsethisfeetinthestirrups,whereJonasswayedslightlyashetriedtoretainhisbalance.

"Princess,youwillneedtoridenexttoJonastokeephimonhishorse."Dominicsaid."Weneedtogetbacktothewagonbeforewecanallowhimtosleep."

KerianoddedandwentovertoJonas'horse,whereMarcushelpedherontoitsback.Keriareturnedhistightsmileandhesqueezedherhandbeforeheheadedtohishorse.Whatatangledmessthisis.Shethoughtasshewatchedhimmountup.Hehadmadehisfeelingsforherclearandnowsheowedhimablooddebtaswell;hehadalsobravedthedemonstorescueher.

Dominicquicklyorganizedthesmallparty.Marcusled,thentheprincessandJonas,followedbyDominicwithJake,andHailynguardingtherear.Theywouldstaycloseandrideasquietlyaspossible.Dominicwantedtoavoidanyfurthercontactwiththedemonsandhalf-men,ifatallpossible.

DominicliftedJakeintosaddle,keepinghimsecuredwithonearm,andswungupbehindhim.HewrappedhisarmsaroundhimtograspShadow'sreinsandholdhiminthesaddle.HenoddedtoMarcus,wholedthesmallbandawayfromthedemons'lair.

...Strivingtostaveoffthetiringeffectsfromheruseofpower,Hailynscanned

thesurroundingforest,strainingtohearanysoundsofapproachingdangerastheymadetheirwaybacktowardsthewagon.Theforestwasquiet,thedarknessoppressive,surroundingthemlikeacloak,makingithardtoseeveryfarastheytraveled.Asshegrippedthestaffinherrighthand,shecouldfeelthecarvedrunesagainstherpalmwhileshecontrolledherhorsewithherleft.Inthedarkness,shecouldjustmakeoutMarcusasheledthemthroughthetrees.HergazeshiftedtoDominic,stoppingassheglimpsedJake,unconsciousandwrappedinDominic’sarms.Thesighttoreather,butshetriedtoforceherselftofocusonthetaskathand,thoughhereyesreturnedtoJaketimeandagain.

Withherattentionsomewhatdistracted,shewasstartledwhenMarcussuddenlyletoutaloudcurseasanImpandfourhalf-menappeared.Theyhadarrivedwithoutwarninginanopeninginthetrees.Heimmediatelyspunhishorseandchargedatthegroup,swordout.Hailyn,shakingoffhersurprise,quicklyembracedherpower.Thestaffmagnifiedhermight,hershiningformblazedbrightlyandlitthearea.Raisingahand,sheunleashedamassiveburstofclerics’fireintothedemon.Thedemonstaggeredback,cursinginpain,itsfleshblistering,whileMarcusrodeintothehalf-men,swordmoving,scatteringthem.Beforethedemoncouldsetitself,Hailynfollowedupwithanotherblastofmagic,thisoneoverwhelmingthedemon’sdefensesandreducingittoash.

Withthedemondestroyed,sheshiftedherfocusonthehalf-men.ShesawoneclosingwithMarcusfrombehind,swordreadytoplungeintohisback.Beforeshecouldreact,aboltofclerics’firestruckthehalf-manandheexplodedintoash.ShesawJonas,glowinginpowerandswayinginhissaddle.Theprincess,herhandonhisarm,wassupportinghimashestruckoutagain.Hailynsentawaveoffireracingtowardstheremaininghalf-menclosinginonMarcus,quicklydestroyingthem.

SherodeovertoMarcus,scanninghimandhishorseforanyinjuries.Shereachedovertolayahandonhimtobesurewhenhewavedheroff.“I’mfine,buttheyscoredmyhorse.”Hesaid,whilecontinuingtowatchthesurroundingwoods.

Hailynleanedoverandsetherhandonhishorse.Shesentherpowerintoit,

feelingthewoundliningthesideawayfromher.Concentrating,sheclosedthegash,keepingherpowerinthehorsewhilemakingsureitwashealedproperlyandtherewasnopoisoninthewound.Satisfied,shesatbackuprightinhersaddleandMarcusgaveheranodofthanks.Heturnedhishorsebacktowardsthedirectiontheyweretraveling.

Assheheadedbacktoherpositionattherearoftheline,HailynglancedoveratJonas,theglowofhispowernowgone.Hegaveheraweaksmileandanod,hisfacetiredanddrawn,theprincessrightnexttohim,handonhisarm.AsshepassedDominic,whohaddrawnhisswordwithrighthandwhileholdingbothhisreinsandJakewithhisleft,hesaidquietly.“Welldone,girl;nowreleaseyourpowerbeforeweloseallofournightvision.”

Embarrassedthatshehadtoberemindedtodoso,shereleasedherpower,plungingthegroupbackintodarkness.Shetookupherpositionagainandtheycontinuedon.

Shortlyaftertheirfight,Hailynheardthesoundsofhalf-mencallingtoeachotherinthedistancefromtimetotime,butthosesoundseventuallyfadedaway.Theyavoidedanyfurthercontactwiththeirenemiesastheyrode.Afterwhatseemedtobeaninterminableperiodoftime,ridingquietlythroughthedarkforestwithonlythesoftsoundsofthehorsesintheair,shewastakenbysurprisewhenthetreessuddenlyendedandtheycameoutontotheforestroadwheretheyhadleftthewagon.

AsMarcusgatheredhisbearingandturnedontotheroadtoleadthembacktowherethewagonlayhidden,Hailyntookinadeepbreathandsighedasshesurveyedtheopenspacealongtheroad,thefaintmoonlightseemingbrightaftertheforestdarkness.Shecontinuedtoregardtheopenroad,relievedtobeoutofthetrees,asshetookherplaceastherearguard.

Ittookthemanotherhalfhourtofindthewagon,searchinginthedark,astheyhadcomeoutoftheforestacoupleofmileseastofitshidingplace.Oncetheygatherednearit,Dominiccalledthegrouptogether.

“Weonlyhaveafewhoursbeforesunrise.”Hesaidquietly.“Wewillmovethehorsesintotheforestnexttothewagon.Weshouldfeedandwaterthemandletthemrest.IwillputJakeinthebackofthewagon,butIdonotwanttoattempttohookupthewagoninthedark.Oncethesunisup,wewillstartmovingbacktowardsAlleon’sforces.”HeglancedatJonas,almostasleepinthesaddle.“ThiswillalsogiveJonastimetosleepandrecoversomeofhisstrength.”

HailynandKeriamovedrapidly,clearingaspaceforJakeinthewagonbed,

layingdownblanketsonthewagonfloor.Dominic,withMarcus’help,carriedJaketothewagon,removedhisarmorandsword,andlaidhimdown.Keriacoveredhimupwithanothersetofblanketsandmadeapillowforhishead.RecallingJonas’warningofthedangersoftheclericstouchingJake,DominicwavedawayHailyntoensurenoaccidentalcontactwiththeboy.

Dominicgrabbedsomeblanketsandspreadthemoutonthegroundnexttothewagon.HehelpedJonasdownfromDontasandledhimovertotheblankets.Jonassanktothegroundandwasquicklyasleep.

DominicandMarcusfedandwateredthehorses,whileHailynandtheprincessbroughtoutandpreparedsomeofthetravelrations.Aftertheyhadalleatenasmallmeal,Dominicspoke.“Princess,trytogetsomesleepaswell.Marcus,HailynandIwillkeepwatch.”DominicmovedbacktoShadow,strippingoffhistornandbloodyshirtandpullingoutacleanone.

HailynwatchedasKeriaclimbedintothewagonbedandlaydownnexttoJake,movingclosetohimwithherhandrestingonhischest,almostcuddling.Hailynsighedbitterlyandturnedaway,asshefeltthepangsofjealouslysurgethroughher,unbiddentearsspringingfromhereyes.

Assheturned,shesawMarcusalsolookingatthewagon,hisfaceamaskinthefaintlight,eyesdarkandbrooding.Hewasclearlynothappyaboutthearrangementeither.

Suddenly,Dominicwasthere,glancingatthewagonwithknowingeyes.Hisvoicecutthroughthenight.“Ineedyoubothfocused.”Hesaidfirmly.“Wedonotknowwhatwillhappeninthedaysahead;fateisastrangething.Whateverhappenswillhappen,butfornow,youneedtobealertandputanyotherthoughtsaside.”Withthat,hemovedoffintotheforest.

HailynsharedalookwithMarcusbeforesheheadedouttoguardtheeasternapproach.Shefoundaplacenexttoalargetreewithseverallargebushesnearitstrunkwhereshecouldwatchtheroadwithoutexposingherself.Shesatdown,leaningbackagainstthetree,tryingtostayfocusedonhertask.Butwithsleepinessspreading,herthoughtsbegantowander.

ShewasheartsickthatshecouldnottouchJakeormakeanattempttohelphim.Heronlyoptionwastowatchhimlyinginthatwretchedstate.Wouldherecover?Whathadhedonetohimself?Wouldhebethesame?Herworryforhimovercamethefeelingsofjealousyasshewrestledwithherunpleasantthoughts.

Afterwhatseemedaneternity,theskybegantolightenintheeast.Shesattherequietly,shakingherselffromtimetotime,hereyesdroopingdespiteher

bestefforts,waitingforthesuntorise.Shesatthereuntilthesun,inaflareofreddish-goldlight,liftedintotheskyoverthemountains.Shewearilystoodandheadedbacktothewagon.

Whenshearrived,shesawthatDominicandMarcushadalreadyreturnedandwerequietlyharnessingthehorsestothewagon,toallowKeriaandJonastosleep.Oncethewagonwasready,DominicwentovertowakeJonas.

IttookseveralgentlenudgesfromDominicbeforeJonaswokewithagroan.Hiseyesflutteredforafewseconds,thenopened.HetookamomenttogethisbearingsandslowlystoodwithsomehelpfromDominic.Hisfacewasstilldrawnandtired,buthiseyesquicklyregainedtheirfocus.Helookedaround,sawHailynandmovedovertoherwhileDominicwenttowaketheprincess.

“Youdidwell,mydearchild.”Jonassaidgentlytoher.“Now,youcanrestwhileIwatchoveryou.”Hesaidwithasmileasheheldouthishand.

Hailynquicklyputthestaffinhishand,relievedthatJonaswasup.“Areyousureyouarestrongenough,Master?”Sheasked,concerninhervoice.“Youonlyhadacoupleofhoursofsleep.”

“Iamtired,butnolongerhavethewearinesslikebefore.”Jonasreplied,lookingcloselyather.“Youlooklikeyouarereadytofallasleepstandingthere.Youcansleepaswetravel.”

Astheyturnedbacktothewagon,DominicwasspeakingtoKeria,whowasrisingfromthewagonbed.“YouwillbemorecomfortableonDontas,Highness,thanbouncingaroundinthebackofthewagon.Ifyoufeelyoustillneedtosleep,Icantieyouofftokeepyouinthesaddle.”Hesaidwithaslightsmile.

KeriagaveDominicanunamusedlookwithoutreplying,buttookhishandtohelpherdown.MarcuscameovertohelpherontoDontas.Jonasclimbedontothewagon’sbench,Hailynjoininghim.Hereachedintothewagonbed,carefullyavoidingcontactwithJake,andpulledablanketout.WithanodtoDominic,whowasnowmountedonShadow,theyrodebackontotheroadandheadedwest.

Astheyrode,HailynglancedbackatJake,lyingtherepaleandunmoving,andtearscametohereyes.Shetriedtocontrolthem,butwithherbodyworndown,shefailed.

“Wewillfindawaytohelphim,Hailyn.”Jonassaidsoftly,voicesympathetic.“HavefaithintheOne.Idon’tbelievethatthisrescuemissionwastheonlypurposeofJake’sappearance.”

Nodding,shefacedforward,tearsstillflowing.Jonasrolledtheblanketinto

atightballandplaceditnexttohimonthebench.“Liedownandsleep.”Hesaidgently.“Thingswilllookbetterwhenyouwake.”

Hailynlaydown,curlinguponthebenchandrestingherheadontheblanket.ShefeltJonas’handcomedowntorestprotectivelyonhershoulder.Thattouchseemedtoreleaseherandsheimmediatelyfellasleep.

…Theycontinuedonfortherestoftheday,Dominicinthelead,Marcusinthe

rear,buttheyneithersawnorheardanysignofpursuit.Asthesunbegantosetinthewest,Dominicfoundasmallgulchofftheroad,shelteredonthreesidesbysteepwallsandhiddenfromtheroad.Therewasonlyonewayin,sotheycouldeasilydefendtheposition.

Despitethisaddedprotection,JonasagreedwithDominicthatitwouldbebettertoforgoafire,sotheyatecoldrationsfortheeveningmeal.Theyunsaddledthehorses,allowingthemtofeedandrest.DominicandJonassenttheotherstobed,takingthefirstwatch.MarcususedtheblanketstosetupasleepingareaforKeria,andthenlaydownonthegroundclosetoher,quicklyfallingasleep.Hailynsetupherblanketsnexttothewagon.

JonaswenttothewagontocheckonJake.Coveredinblankets,Jakewasstillunresponsive,lookingfrail,hishairstreakedwithwhite.Butheisalive.Jonasthoughtgratefully.Hegavearuefulshakeofhishead,andthenturnedtoheadouttowardstheroadwhereDominicwaskeepingwatch.

Dominicwassittingonasmalllog,hisswordout,studyingtheapproachtotheirposition.Jonassatdownnexttohim,layinghisstaffacrosshisknees,gratefultobesittingdown,hisbodystilltired.Theysatinsilenceforawhile.

“Howdidyoufindus?”Jonasaskedquietly,breakingthestillness.“Ididnotexpecttoseeyouagainwhenyoudidnotcatchupwithusafterthatfirstday.”

“Thehalf-menandtheirmastersweremorepersistentthanIexpected.”Dominicreplied,stillstaringahead.“EventhoughIthinnedthemoutsome,IwaspushedfarthersouththanIplannedandwasforcedtohideoutforatime.BythetimeIgotclearandcircledback,IhadlittlehopethatIwouldcatchyou,eventhoughIdroveShadowhard.Ialmostmissedwhereyoulefttheroad.ImovedasfastasIcould,butwasslowedbyacoupleoffightsalongtheway.OnceIsawthatyourtrailendedattheroadthatledtothedemons’lair,Iassumedthatyouwentinonfoot.Youdidagoodjobofhidingthehorses,butIsawthesignsleadingofffromtheroad.BythetimeIgottotherocks,nighthadfallenandIsawyouslippingintothecliffface.Itriedtocatchyou,butyou

weregoodatstayingaheadofme.Onceinside,Ihadseveralencountersalongtheway,asyouhadstirreduptheplace.Ifollowedthesoundsofthebattleandfoughtmywaytoyou.Therestyouknow.”

“Well,Iamgladthatyouwerethere.”Jonassaid.“YouhelpedJakewhenheneededitandthatenabledustoprevail.IwilladmitthatIthoughtIhadlostyouagainwhenthedemonlordstruckyou.”Hechuckledsoftly,layingahandonDominic’sshoulder.“Butyouhavealwaysbeentougherthananyoneshouldhavetherighttobe.”

Dominicsmiledslightlyatthecomment.“Ifitmakesyoufeelbetter,Iwasnotveryconfidentaboutmychancesatthatpointeither.”

Hissmilefaded.“Whatareyougoingtodoabouttheboy?”Dominicasked.“Ifyouthinkitmaycostyouyourlife,youhadbetterbesurewhateveryoudowillwork.”

Jonasfrowned,thinking,andthenshruggedhisshoulders.“Jakeisalive;thatiswhatisimportant.Heseemsstable,thoughhedoesnotseemtobeimproving.Thereisalwaysthepossibilitythathewillrecoveronhisown,butIwillwatchhimclosely.IfwegethimbacktoSanduas,Icanstudyhim,thendetermineacourseofaction.”Hepausedforamoment.“Also,IwillsendamessagetoTomaris.Hemayhavesomeinsightintothis.”

“Ithinkthatmaybethebestoptionfornow.”Dominicstated.“FromwhatIsawandheardwhileattheKeep,Tomarisseemslikelytohavetheknowledgeandpowertohelptheboy.Thereisnoneedforyoutoriskyourlife.”

Jonasnoddedandtheyfellsilent,turningtheirfocustothetaskathand.Theykeptwatchwithoutincident.Alittlepastmidnight,JonaswokeMarcusandHailyn.Jonashandedhisstafftoher,thencrawledintohisblanketsandletsleeptakehim.

Jonaswokeupshortlybeforedawn,theaircrisp,thenightslowlygivingwaytotheapproachingsun.Theextrasleephadrefreshedhim,theresidualwearinessnowgone.HelookedaroundandsawthatDominicwasalsoupandabout.TheygrabbedsomerationsandwentouttorelieveMarcusandHailyn.Theysentthembacktogetsomethingtoeatandpreparetodepart.

HeandDominicreturnedtothesamefallenlog,eatinginsilence.Astheysatthere,thesunfinallyrose,bathingthehillsinlight.Finishingtheirmeal,theywerepreparingtoreturntothewagonwhentheyheardthesoundsofanapproachinghorseontheroad.Reactingimmediately,Dominicdrewhisswordandmovedquicklytowardstheroad,Jonasclosebehind.

Dominicfoundaplacewherehecouldtaketheriderbysurprise,crouching

behindsomethickbushesnexttotheroad.Hebroughthisswordup,preparedtoactquicklyasthehoofbeatsdrewcloser.Hewaited,stillasastone,sensingJonasrightbehindhim,readytosupporthim.Hewatchedtheroad,whichcurvedawayfromhispositiontogoaroundahill,expectingtoseeahalf-manrideup,planninganattackinhismind.

Whentheridercameintoview,Dominicsawthathewasridingconfidently,scanningthesurroundingtrees,dressedinchainmailoverleather,aswordhangingfromhisbelt,andagoldeneagleemblemonhischest.Dominicrelaxed,stoodandsteppedoutontotheroad,raisinghishandingreeting.TheridersawDominicinstantlyandraisedahandinresponse.Dominichadrecognizedhim;hewastheleadscoutfromAlleon’sarmy.

CHAPTERTWO

SergeantWerdanwasashort,wirymaninearlymiddleage.Hishairwasgraying,agelinescreasinghisforeheadandthecornersofhiseyes,buthecarriedhimselfwiththeairofaveteran.Despitehisage,thebrowneyesabovehischiselednosewerestillpiercingandpredatory,remindingDominicoftheeagleemblazonedinhischest.Dominicrememberedhimfromhisarmydays,knowingthatWerdanhadbeenasoldierallofhislife,nevermarryingorhavingchildren.Hewasalsoataciturnman,quietandserious,passingoverpromotionbecausehepreferredthesolitarylifeofascout.Allinall,agoodman.DominicthoughtashelistenedwhileJonasfinishedexplainingtheirsituation.

“Onceyouhaveyourpeoplereadytogo,IwillleadyoubacktoSirAlleon.”Werdansaidshortly,butpolitely,whilehiseyesneverstoppedscanningthesurroundingarea.“Iwillkeepguardwhileyoumakeready.”

“Weshouldbereadytomovequickly.”Jonasreplied.“HowfartoAlleon?”“Theywillhavebeguntomarchbynow,soweshouldmeetthembymid-

day.”Werdansaid.“Theyareheadedhere?”Jonasasked,surprised.“Theyhadtakenthe

southernroad.Whathappened?”“Wefoundevidencethattheprincesswasnotonthesouthernroad.Iwilllet

SirAlleonexplainittoyou,BrotherJonas,ifyoudon’tmind.”Werdanreplied,clearlynotcomfortablewithextendedconversation.

“Thatwillbefine,SergeantWerdan.”Dominicinterjected.“Wewillgatherourthingsandbereadytomoveshortly.”

Werdannodded,ridingoffashortdistancetowherehecouldbetterwatchtheroad.

DominicandJonasmadetheirwaybacktocamp,arrivingtoseethatMarcushadalreadyhookedupthewagonhorsesandwassaddlingtheothermountsinpreparationtodepart.HailynandKeriahadrepackedandloadedthesuppliesinthewagon.DominicandJonaswentoverandtoldthemofthearrivalofSergeantWerdan.

ThankstoMarcus’effort,theyweremovingouttotheroadinjustafewminutes.Astheyturnedontotheroad,Werdanrodeover,givingMarcusashortnodandKeriaabowfromhishorse.“Iamgladtoseeyouunharmed,YourHighness.”Hesaidpolitely.“SirAlleonwillberelievedtoseeyouaswell.”

Werdanrodeofftotaketheleadandtheybegantoheadwestagain.

DominictookuptherearguardwhileMarcusrodenexttoKeriabehindthewagon.

Theweatherwascomfortableastheyrode,withalightbreezeandscatteredcloudsdriftinginfrontofthesunasitslowlyroseinthesky.Dominicdroppedbackfromtimetotime,seekingsignsoftheirenemies,buttheforestremainedquiet.

JustasWerdanhadsaid,theycameuponthreeofAlleon’soutridersshortlyaftermid-day.AfterashortconversationwithWerdan,twoofthesoldierstookupflankingpositionsneartheprincesswhilethethirdrodebacktorelaythenewstothemainforce.Afteranotherfifteenminutesofriding,DominiccouldhearthesoundsofAlleon’sarmymovingalongtheroad.

WerdanrodeaheadtogivehisreporttoSirAlleon.Alleon,dressedinfullarmor,haltedhisforcesandrodeouttomeetthem.HewasclearlyrelievedtoseeKeriaashegreetedher,awidesmilecreasinghisfacedespitetryingtolookserious.Hepromisedtoreturnhertothesafetyofthecityasquicklyaspossible.HegaveJonasaheartywelcome,hisgoodnatureshiningthrough.

Dominicrodeover,Alleongivinghimasaluteashedrewnear.“IseethatIshouldhavefollowedyou.”Alleonsaidself-consciously,thoughhiseyesstillshonewithgoodcheer.“Nexttime,Iwillletyoutakecommandandyoucanjustpointmeinthedirectionyouthinkisbest.”

“Youdidwhatmadesenseatthetime,Alleon.”Dominicreplied.“Wehavetheprincessback,thatiswhatisimportant.”

“Truly.”Alleonsaidwithasmile,nodding.“Let’ssurroundherwithclericsandsoldiersbeforemyluckrunsout.”HemotionedKeriatorideforward.“Highness,ifyouwill.”

Theyrodebackintothearmy,thesoldierscheeringandcallingoutgreetingstoKeria,theclericsgatheringaroundJonasandHailyn.Astheyapproachedthesupplywagons,DominicwassurprisedtoseeKeria’scarriagemixedinwiththewagons.HelookedquestioninglyatAlleon.

“Wefounditalongthesouthernroad,abandoned,theafternoonoftheseconddayafterweparted.”Alleontoldhim.“Therewasasmallenemyforcewaitinginambushnearit,butwequicklydefeatedthemandturnedaroundtofollowyourpath.Ipushedthehorseshard,tryingtomakeuptime.Theclericsweresomewhatcrosswithmeforthat,asIallbutexhaustedthemastheyhadtohealthehorseseverytimewestopped.”

Alleonstopped,slidingoffhishorsewithaclang,andmotioningthemdown.“Wewillhaveaquickmealandshareourreports.”Hecalledoverhis

officersandhadthemdeploythesoldiersindefensivepositionsaroundthearea.Jonassentthebulkoftheclericswiththesoldiers.

Severalaidesquicklysetupafieldtablefromthewagonswhilethecooksheatedupsomerations.Whiletheyate,JonasandDominictoldAlleonabouttrackingdownthekidnapperstothedemons’lairandthedestructionofCreatos.

AlleonglancedoveratJonas’swagon,whereHailynwaswatchingoverJake,andshookhishead.“Iknowhewastrainingwithyou,Dominic,soIdonotmeantogiveoffense,butIdidn’tthinkthathehadthatkindofcourage.”Alleonsaid,respectinhiseyes.

“Couragecanbefoundinanyone,SirAlleon.”Jonassaid.“TheOneprovidesusallwiththecapacity;itjusttakestherightkindofmotivationforittocomeout.”HeglancedmeaningfullyatKeria.

Alleontoldthemwhathappenedwithhisforce.HeexpandedonwhathehadalreadytoldDominic.Thearmyhadfollowedthepassageofthehalf-menanddemonssouthuntiltheycameupontheabandonedcarriage.Hehadsentseveralsearchpartiesintothesurroundinghills,lookingforsignsoftheprincess.Oneofthesepartiesstumbledontothewaitinghalf-menanddemons.Theylosttwoclericsandtensoldiersbeforetheywereabletogatherenoughforcestocrushthedemons.Oncethefightingwasdone,Alleonhadorderedthedeadsoldiers’horseshookeduptothecarriageandturnedthearmybacktowardsthecrossroad.Theymovedasquicklyaspossibletotrytocatchup.Whentheyhadbivouackedneartheminers’camp,AlleonhadspokenwiththeirleaderandlearnedthatDominic’sgrouphadcomeandgone.HesentWerdanaheadtoseewhathecouldfindwhilethearmyfollowed.

“Youmadequiteanimpressionontheminers,Dominic.”Alleonsaidwithashortlaugh.“Iheardthemdebatingwhethertheywouldopentheirgatesifyoureturned!”Dominicsmiledgrimlyatthat.

Suddenly,Keria,whohadbeensittingnexttoMarcussimplylistening,stoodandspoke.“Iwanttothankyouforallofyourefforts,SirAlleon.Pleaserelaymydeepestthankstothesoldiersandclericsunderyourcommandfortheircourageandcommitmentintheattempttorescueme.”Shesaid.

“Ofcourse,YourHighness.”Alleonreplied.“Whatisyourplannow?”Sheasked.“Togetyoubacktothecityasquicklyaspossible,ofcourse.”Alleon

stated.“Seeingthesizeofthisforce,Iamthinkingofsomethingelse.”Keriasaid,

herfaceneutral.

“Whatwouldthatbe?”Alleoncautiouslyasked.“Iwantthedemonsandtheirfollowerspunished.”Shestated.“Theytook

mehostageandkilledthemembersofmyescort,includingCostuasandpoorNataly.”Hervoicebrokebriefly,butsherecovered.“IwantyoutogoandclearoutthatnestofdemonswhereIwasheld.”

“Princess,Iwouldgladlymeteoutjusticetothosethathaveharmedyou,but,withallduerespect,mymissionistorecoveryouandreturnyousafelytoyourfather,theKing.”Alleonsaid,lookinguncomfortable.“HewillhangmefromthewallsofSanduasifIdon’timmediatelybringyouhome.”

“Myfatherisnothere,SirAlleon.”Keriastatedprimly.“Also,therewereotherstrappedinthatplace;IheardtheircrieswhileIwasconfined.Whenitwasjustoursmallgroup,Iknewtherewasnooptionbuttoleavethemtotheirfates.Now,withthismanysoldiersandclerics,weshouldbeabletooverwhelmthedemons’forcesandrescuethosepoorsouls.”

“Icannotriskyoursafetynowthatyouarefree,Princess.”Alleonprotested.“Iamsurethekingwillallowustoreturnanddestroythatplaceafteryouarebackhome.Iwillaskthekingforthehonorofleadingthatmissioninthenamesofthelost.”

“Iwillnotabandonthosepeopletrappedthere,nowthatthemeanstorescuethemishere.”Keriasaidstubbornly.“Considerthisaroyalcommand.”Alleonfrownedandslowlyshookhishead,lookingforawayout.

“Princess,Iunderstandyourgriefanddesireforretribution,aswellasapplaudyourcompassion,butSirAlleonisunderordersfromtheking.”Jonassaid,joiningtheconversation.“Donotplacehiminapositiontohavetodefyyouoryourfather.LetusreturntoSanduas.IwillsupportAlleontoreturnwithasmanyclericsascanbespared.”

“Ican’tbelievethatyouwouldleavethosepeopleinbondage,BrotherJonas.”Keriaresponded,shakingherhead.“Ifnotforme,wouldyousimplydepartknowingtheywerethere?”

“No,YourHighness.”Jonassaidreluctantly.“Butyouarehere.Thatchangestheequation.”

“Iwillalwaysbegratefultoyouforrescuingme,BrotherJonas,but,inthis,youarewrong.”Keriastated,adefiantlookonherface.“Icannotforceyoutosupportme,butthesoldiersfallunderroyalcommand.Iwillsendthemagainstthedemonswithoutyourclerics,ifImust,butIwillnotleavethosepeople.”

Jonasfrownedatthat,hisfacetightening,butbeforehecouldreply,Dominicspoke.“Imayhaveasolutionthatwillsatisfybothsides.”

BothJonasandKerialookedathimforamoment,thennoddedthatheshouldcontinue.

“Howmanyclericsarehere?”HeaskedJonas.“Thirty-eight,plusHailynandmyself.”Jonasreplied.“Givemeeighteenofyourstrongestclerics;Alleoncansparethirtysoldiers.

Iwillleadthatforceagainstthedemons;Ihaveafeelfortheplacenow.”Dominicreplied.“Theclericswillbebetterweaponsthansoldiersinthewarrensatthedemons’fortress.ThatwillleavethebulkofthesoldiersandhalftheclericswithAlleon.”

Jonasconsidereditforamoment.“Iwillsendfifteenandgomyself.”Hesaid.“Likeyou,IhavebeeninsideandIwillbebestabletoorganizetheclerics.”HelookedatKeria.“Ifthisissomethingyouareinsistingon?”

Kerianodded.“Iam,BrotherJonas.”“Asforyou,Princess,youwillgowiththerestofAlleon’sforcebackto

Sanduas.”Dominicsaid.“Thatway,yourfathercannotfaultAlleonfornotreturningyouasquicklyaspossible.Also,youcanlookaftertheboyuntilJonasreturns.”

KerianoddedheracceptanceandturnedtospeaktoAlleon.Shecouldseethedisappointmentinhiseyes,knowingthathewouldmissthefighting.“SirAlleon,Iwouldaskyoutogowiththisexpeditionasmychampion.Iwishforyoutodeliverthejusticeyoumentioned.”

“Iwouldgladlyacceptsuchacharge,Highness,butyoursafetywasplacedintomyhandsbytheking.”Alleonsaid,risingandgivingherabow.“IamnotsurehowIcansatisfybothdemands.”

“Putyoursecondincommand.Withallofthesoldiersandclericsarrayedaroundme,youhaveaccomplishedallyoucantokeepmesafe.”Keriareplied.ShegaveAlleonabriefsmile.“Pleasegoforme.Iwillexplainthingstomyfather.”

“Itwillbemyhonor,YourHighness.”Alleonsaid,asmilecrossinghisfaceashebowedagain.“Iwillbringyourjusticetothosefoulcreaturesandsuccorthelostsouls.”

Theymovedquicklytoorganizetheirrespectiveparties.WhileDominicwenttothesupplywagonstogetanotherbreastplate,Alleoncalledforvolunteerstojoinhimandorderedhissecond,CaptainGrashin,togettherestturnedaroundandreadytomove.Jonascalledtheclericstogether,explainingthesituation.Hepickedouthisfifteen,thenputtheremainingclericsunderthedirectionofanolderfemaleclericnamedSilvan.HetookSilvanovertothe

wagonwhereHailynwasstillsitting,explainingwhathadhappenedtoJake.“Donotallowanyoftheclericstoattempttohealhim;itmaybefataltoany

whoattemptit.”Jonassaidastheystopped,gesturingatJake.“Justkeephimcomfortableandhavethesoldiershelpmovehim,ifnecessary.OnceyouarriveatSanduas,sendamessengertoTomaris’Keep.InformhimofJake’sconditionandaskforanyhelphecanprovide.IfIdonotreturn,youmayneedtosendJaketotheKeep.”

“Wewillcareforhim,Brother;youworryaboutyourselfandthosewithyou.”Silvanreplied.ShelookedoveratHailyn,whohadclimbeddownwhiletheyweretalking.“IwillseeHailynsafelybacktotheTemple.”Shesaidkindly.

“Master,Ialsohavebeeninside,perhapsIshouldgowithyou-”Hailynbegan.

“No.”Jonasstatedfirmly,shakinghishead.“YouhavedonemorethanIshouldhaveaskedofyou.Idonotdoubtyourcourageorskill,butyouwillreturntoSanduas.”Hegaveheraknowingsmile.“IwantyoutohelpSilvanwithJake.Ifhewakes,hewilllikelywishtoseeafamiliarface.”

“Ofcourse,Master.”Hailynsaid,quicklyglancingoveratJake.ShelookedbackatJonas.“Pleasebecareful.”

“Ialwaystrytobecareful.”Jonassaidwithasoftlaugh.“Sometimes,itjustdoesn’tworkoutforme.”

Thesoundsofapproachinghorsesinterruptedthem.DominicrodeuponShadow,leadingDontas.Hehadanewbreastplateon,thoughitdidnotseemtofitparticularlywell.Jonaslookedmeaningfullyatit,aslightsmileonhisface.

“ItwasthebestIcouldfind.”Dominicsaidwithashrugofhisshoulders.“IwillhaveNorlanmakeanewone,ifwereturn.”HehandedthereinsofDontastoJonas.“Wearereadytogo.”

JonasclimbedintothesaddleandfacedSilvanandHailyn.Heraisedahand.“GowiththeblessingsoftheOne.MayHeseeyousafelyhome.”

“Aswithyouandourbrothersandsistersaswell.”Silvanreplied,noddingherhead.

Withthat,DominicandJonasrodeovertojoinAlleonandhissoldiers,thechosenclericsfallinginbehindJonas.Amidtheshoutsofencouragementfromtheassembledsoldiers,manyraisingtheirswordsorspearsinsalute,thesmallergrouprodethroughtherestoftheforceandheadedeastontheroad,quicklydisappearingaroundthebend.

CaptainGrashincalledtherestofthesoldersbackintoorderandbeganto

turneveryonearound.Itwascrampedonthenarrowforestroadandtooknearlythirtyminutestogetthewagonsturnedaroundandhisforcedeployedashewantedit.Oncehewassatisfied,herodeovertoKeria,whowasbackinhercarriage.

Thecarriagehadtwosoldierstodriveit,botharmedwithbows.Silvanhadarrangedtenofherclericsaroundthecarriageforprotection;therestweredispersedthroughouttheformation.AlongwithMarcus,whowasonhishorsenexttothecarriage,twentysoldierswereassignedtoguarditdirectly,stayingascloseastheroadwouldallow.

“YourHighness,withyourpermission,wewillgetunderway.”CaptainGrashintoldKeria,handraisedinsalute.

“Youhavemypermission,Captain.Letusdepart.”Keriareplied.WithashoutfromGrashin,amidthesnortsandwhinniesfromthehorses,

thearmybegantherideoutoftheforest.…

HailynwasdrivingJonas’wagon,positionedashortdistancebehindKeria’scarriage.Shesatthere,hermindwanderingfromtimetotime,astheforestrolledby.SheoftenturnedtolookoverhershoulderatJake,hopingforachangeinhiscondition,butheremainedthesame.

Shewassurprisedwhen,astheskybegantodarken,thearmycontinuedtorideon.WhenSilvanrodeby,movingaroundthecaravantocheckontheclerics,Hailynhailedher.

“Sister,arewenotstoppingforthenight?”Sheasked.“No,Hailyn.”Silvanreplied.“GrashinandIhavedecidedthatwewill

continueonuntilwecleartheforest.Youshouldprepareyourselfforalongnightinthatseat.”Withthat,sherodeon.

Thepaceslowedasnightfellovertheforest,theleadriderslightingtorchestoilluminatethewayahead,butthearmydidnotstop.Hailynrecognizedthesideroadthatledtotheminers’campastheypasseditindark,andthenjustlikethat,itwasgone.Themonotonyofthejourney,withonlythesoundsofhorsesandthesoftmurmurofsoldiers’conversationsaudibleinthedarkforest,begantotakeitstoll.Hailyncaughtherselfdriftingoffonseveraloccasions,shakingherselfawake.Shetriedtofocusonthemovementoftheridersinfrontofher,desperatetostayalert.Itwasadifficultandlongnight,butneardawn,theycameuponthemainnorth-southforestroad.Asthesuncameupandshoweredthetreesinlight,theyturnednorthandpickedupthepaceoftravel.Theyrodeatasteadypaceformostofthemorning,finallyarrivingatawell-worndirttrail

thatstretchedacrosstheforest.Theyturnedwestagain,movingslowlythroughthetrees,andfinallyexitedontotherollingplainsinthelateafternoon.

Hailynwasgladtobeoutoftheforest,savoringtheopenlandinfrontofher.Oncethearmywasoutofthetreesandontotherollinggrassland,Grashincalledforahalt.Exhaustedsoldiersslowlyclimbedofftheirhorses,shakingtheirlegsandstretching.Thehorsesbegantograzeonthegreengrass,movingslowly,clearlytired.

AfteraquickcheckonJake,Hailynclimbeddownfromthewagon,gratefulforthechancetomovearound.ShewascheckingonthewagonhorseswhenSilvanrodeup.

“Hailyn,weneedtohealthehorsesandrelievethemoftheirfatigue.Wearenotstoppinghere.”Silvansaid.“Wewillcontinueonuntilwereachthelocalgarrison.Grashinhasalreadysentridersahead.Itwillbesaferwithsomestonewallsaroundus,allowingustorelievethesoldiersandrestthehorses.Onceyoufinishwithyourhorses,seetotheothersinthearea.”

“Yes,Sister.”Hailynreplied.Silvangaveheranodandrodeoff.Hailyn,alongwithherfellowclerics,spentthenexttwentyminutesmoving

fromhorsetohorse,usinghermagictorefreshandreinvigoratethem.Inspiteofherownfatigue,shecouldnothelpbutsmileattheplayfulheadnudgesandsoftwhinniesfromthehorsesaftershehadrestoredthem.

Assoonastheclericshadfinished,thearmyremountedandbeganmovingagain.Freeofthetrees,GrashinhadtheformationcloseranksaroundKeria’scarriagewhiletheoutriderslittorchesasnightsettledonthearea.Hailynfoundherselfgettingimpatientwiththepace,readyforsleep,almosttryingtowillthegarrisontoappear.Theopengrasslandsdidnotgiveherthesamesenseofforwardmovementasshehadintheforest.

Herminddrifting,herbodycravingrest,shewastakenbysurprisewhenthecheerwentupfromthesoldiers.Standingup,shecouldseearoundthecarriageandoverthesoldierstospytheburningtorchesthatlinedthestonebattlementsofthelocalgarrison’sfortress.

Withinanhourofspottingthefortress,everyonewassafelyinsidethewalls.Thecourtyardwaspackedwithwagonsandsoldiers.Nearlyeveryinchofavailablegroundwastakenupbysleepingsoldiers,manywhosimplysanktothebareground,forgoingblankets.Thehorseshadbeentakentothestablearea,withmanytieduptotheoutsideofthecorral,asthebarnwasnotbigenoughtoholdthemall.Asshepreparedthewagonseatasamakeshiftbed,HailynwatchedsomewhatenviouslyasKeria,withMarcusbyherside,wasledintothe

garrisoncommander’squarterstosleepinarealbed.Sighing,Hailynrearrangedherblanketsagain,tryingtocushionthewooden

seatabitmore.Despitetheaccommodations,shewasgratefultobeinsidethewalls,knowingthatJakewasnowsafe.Ashadbecomeherhabit,shelookedintothewagonbedtocheckonhim.Helaythereashehadsincethebattle,eyesclosed.Hestillhadnotgivenanysignsofcomingaround.Shehadtoresisttheurgetoreachdownandtouchhisface.Asshesatthereandstudiedhisfaceinthetorchlight,shealmostjumpedoutofherseatwhenhiseyessuddenlypoppedopen.

…Inthehillsfartotheeast,withthetorchesburningbrightlybehindhim,

Delanslowlypacedacrosstheroughroad,lookinguptowardstherocksandtrees,watchingforanyoneapproaching.Hehaddrawnthenightwatch,whichinitiallyangeredhim.Aftersomethought,though,hehaddecideditwasbetterthanbeinginsidewiththeMasters.Theywerestillinafury;itonlytookasinglewrongwordoractiontobringtheirwrathdownonanyofthefollowers.

Delanallowedhimselfashort,uglychuckle.ThatidiotSibanhaddrawntheattentionoftheMasters,astheysquabbledoverwhowouldlead,sayingoutloudthattheyshouldsimplyletthestrongestonedoso.Temporarilysettingasidetheirdifferences,severaldescendedonhimandrippedhimapart,makingabloodymess.Itwasalessontoanyothersthathadopinionstheywishedtovoice.

Secretly,DelanwasgladsincehehatedSiban.HehadbeenanarrogantfoolandtriedtolordoverDelanwhenthedemontheyservedplacedhimincharge.TheMastershadsavedhimtheeffortofhavingtokillSibanhimself.

Still,therehadbeenmuchconfusionaftertheirlordhadfallen.TheMastershadbeguntofightamongstthemselvesforpower,rallyingfollowerstotheirside.Therehadbeennumerouspitchedbattlesinsidethefortress,withseveralgroupsfleeingintotheforest,untiltheMastersworkedoutasystemtogovernwhatwasleft.

Intheend,threeoftheMasterswouldnowworktogethertomakethedecisions.Delanshookhisheadashethoughtaboutit.Hereallydidnotcarewhoranthings.Heonlywishedtobeoutraiding,takinglives,gold,andwomen.

Asheglancedbackattheothertwofollowersstandingguard,heheardthesoundofapproachinghorsescomingfromtheforest.Itmayjustbesomeofthosefoolswhoranoff,butIneedtobesure.Hedrewhisswordandmovedup

towheresomestrategicallyplacedbouldersborderedtheroad,designedtopreventanyattackerfromflankingtheguards.Hesteppedintothemiddleoftheroadandwaited.

Thesoundgrewlouder.Hecouldtellthattherewasafairlylargepartyapproaching.Hethoughtofraisingthealarm,buthewasnotgoingtorisktheMasters’wrathifitwasonlysomeofthefollowersreturning.

Inthedimlightofthetorches,hesawalargemanonablackhorsecomeridingoverthecrestofthehill.Asthehorseranstraightforhim,alongbrightswordappearedintheman’shand.Behindhimcamemoreriders.

Delan,alreadybringinghisweaponup,felthimselfgocoldwhenhemadeoutthescarsontheman’sface.Heknewwhothiswas!Hebegantoshoutthealarmwhenseveraloftheridersweresuddenlysurroundedbybrightlyglowingyellowauras,theonebehindthescarredwarrioroutshiningthemall.ThecryonhislipsdiedwhenabrightlanceofyellowfireracedouttowardsDelan,strikinghim,andhewassuddenlynomore.

CHAPTERTHREE

“Wherearewe?”Jakeasked,voicesoftandraspy,lookingupatHailyn,whowasstaringdownathim,hereyesshininginthelightofthetorches.

“Weareatthefortressofthelocalgarrison,nearthenorth-southhighway.”Hailynreplied,alargesmileonherface.Shereachedouttotouchhisface,but,hersmilesuddenlyfading,withdrewherhand.“Howdoyoufeel,Jake?”

“Reallyweak.”Jakereplied,tryingtoshiftintheblankets.“Icanbarelyliftmyhead.”

Jakefeltasthoughhiswholebodywassuckeddryofstrength.Hehaddriftedinaquietdarknessafterhehadlaunchedhislastattack.HehadbeensofrightenedbythethoughtofKeriadyingthathehadfranticallytriedtogathereverylastbitofpowertostopCreatos.Therehadbeenabriefsensationofhisbodybeingdrained,asifsomethingwasbeingpulledfrominsidehim,thendarkness.Hewouldoccasionallydetectasoftmurmur,asifhearingvoicesfromagreatdistance.Therewerebriefmomentswhenanimpressionofmovementintrudedinthatquietplace.

Hehadbeendriftingalong,oblivioustoeverything,whenavoicesuddenlyroseinthedarkness.Itwasthesamevoicethathadspokeninhisdisturbingdream.Youhavedonewell,child.Thevoicesaid,kindandgentle.Butyoumustwake.Withthat,hebecameawareofsoftsoundsofmensnoringandfirescrackling,couldfeeltheblanketsagainsthisskinandopenedhiseyes.Ithadtakenhimamomenttoforhiseyestoadjust,finallyseeingHailynwiththewatchfiresinthebackground.

“Youshouldjustrelax.”Shestated.“Wearesafehere.”“Whathappened?”Jakeasked.“IsKeriaok?”“Sheisfine,thankstoyou.”Hailynresponded.“Wedefeatedthedemon

lordandallofusmadeitoutofthedemons’fortress.”“Dominic?”Jakeaskedquietly.HerememberedtheblowthatCreatoshad

struck.“Jonashealedhim,Jake.”Hailynsaidreassuringly.“Heishisusualself.”Jakeletoutabreathhedidnotrealizehehadbeenholding,afeelingofrelief

spreadingthroughhisbody.Hetriedtomoveagain,buthisbodydidnotseemtowanttowork.

“Doyouneedanything?Hailynasked.“Somewater.Mymouthfeelssodry.”Jakesaid.

Hailynreacheddownandpulledherwaterskinfromunderthewagonbench.Outofreflex,shestartedtohandittoJake,butthenrememberedJonas’admonishment.

“IfIsetitdownnexttoyou,canyoupickitup?”Hailynasked.Shehesitatedforamoment,butcontinued.“Jonasbelievesthatyousomehowinterjectedyourlife-forceintoyourmagicduringthebattle,justasyoudidbeforeintheforest.Heisnotsurehowtohelpyouyet,buthasinstructedthatnoneoftheclericsaretotouchyouorgettooclose.Heisconcernedthattheclerics’magicmaytriggerthetransferofpowerthatoccurredbetweenyouandhim.Hefearsthat,inyourcondition,suchaconnectionmaykillthecleric.”

Jakewasstunnedbythat,butdidnotknowwhattosay.Whenhetriedtolifthisarm,itwasclearthatmanipulatingthewaterskinwasbeyondhim.“Maybeyoucouldjustpouritinmymouth?”Jakesuggested.

“Iwillhelphim.”AfamiliarvoicesaidasMarcuswalkeduptothewagon.Hehadtakenoffhisarmor,butstillhadhisswordon.WithaslightsmileforHailyn,hetookthewaterskinfromher,thenreachedintothewagonbedand,withunexpectedgentleness,liftedJake’shead,bringingtheskintoJake’smouth.

Jakedrankdeeplyandgratefully.Marcuswatchedhimclosely,removingthewaterskinwhenJakegaveaslightnodandsettinghisheadbackontotheblankets.

“IaminyourdebtforsavingKeria,Jake.”Marcussaidasrecappedthewaterskin,histoneserious.“Youfacedthedemonlord,somethingIknowthatIcouldnothavedoneand,becauseofyoursacrifice,Keriawasrescued.Exceptforgivingupmypursuitofheroranythingthatwouldharmher,Istandreadytorepaythatdebt.YouonlyneedtellmewhatyouwishandIwillmakeithappen.”

“Wecandiscussthatlater,Marcus.”Jakesaidcautiously.“Howisshe?”“Tired,butsafe.”Marcusreplied.Hegesturedtowardsthecommander’s

quarters.“ShewascleaningupandpreparingforbedwhenIlefther.”MarcusstoodnexttothewagonwhileHailynfilledJakeinontheeventsthat

hadoccurredsincehelostconsciousness,addinghisperspectivefromtimetotime.HehelpedJakeeatsomerationsanddrinkmorewaterwhilehewasthere.

AfterHailynfinishedspeaking,hemadetoleave.“IwillbesleepingoutsideKeria’sroom,ifyouneedme.”Hesaid.“Ibelievethatwewillspendtomorrowhere,allowingthesoldiersandhorsestorest,thendepartthefollowingday.Iwillcomebyinthemorningtocheckonyou.Goodnighttoyouboth.”With

that,hestrodebacktowardsthecommander’squarters,carefullysteppingoverandaroundthesleepingsoldiers.

“Ineedtogetsomesleep.Youshouldtryandrestalso,Jake.”Hailynsaidwithayawn.“Iwillbehereifyouneedme.Justcallout.”Shegavehimanothersmile,andthenlaydownonthewagonbench.

Jakelaytherelookingupatthesky,thetorchlightblockingoutsomeofthefainterstars.Amidstthesnoresofthesoldiers,heheardHailyn’sgentlebreathfallintotheregularrhythmofsleep.Hestaredatthedarksky,histhoughtschurning,thenslowly,hismindcalmedandhefellintothefamiliaroblivionofsleep.

…Withthesunalreadyinthesky,Jakewoketosmellofcookingfoodandthe

soundsofthehustleandbustleofsoldiersmovingaboutthecourtyard,talkingandlaughing.Hetriedtolifthishead,butwasonlyabletoraiseitafewinches,feelingasifsomeinvisiblehandwasholdingitdown.

“Goodmorning,Jake.”Hailyn’svoicecamefromthebenchbehindhim.Hetwistedhisheadaroundtolookather.Shewasinfreshclothesandevidentlyhadfoundthetimetobathe,herdamphairglisteninginthesun.Shegavehimawarmsmile,herbrowneyescatchingthemorningsun,thegoldenflakesseemingtoshine.“Howdoyoufeel?”

“Everythingseemstobeworking,butmybodyisstillreallyweak.”Jakesaid,returninghersmile.“IwishIknewwhathappenedtome.”

“Youneedtorestandbepatient.”Hailynresponded,voiceconfident.“OnceMasterJonasreturns,Iamsurethathewillfindawaytohelpyou.”

“Ifwhatyousaidabouttheclericsandmeisright,thenIcan’tlethimdoanything.”Jakestated.“Idon’twanthimtogethurtorworseforme.”

“Well,thatisanissuethatwewilladdresswhenithappens.”Hailynsaidsoothingly.“Maybeyouwillsimplygetbetterwithalittletime.”

“Maybe.”Jakesaid,turninghisheadback.“IjustwishIcouldsitup.”“Thatiseasyenough.”Marcus’voicesoundedashewalkeduptothe

wagon.JaketurnedhisheadtoseethatMarcushadalsobathedandchangedintocleanclothes.IguessI’mtheonlyonewhoisn’tgettingashower.Jakethoughtself-consciouslyashelookedathisdirtyclothes.

Marcuspiledsomeblanketsagainstthesideofthewagon’srails,andthenassistedJakeintoasittingposition,liftingandpullinghimuntilhewasrestingagainsttheblankets.JakewasembarrassedthatMarcushadtodomostofthework,butwasmostlydistractedbyanoddcrawlingsensationthatoccurred

whenMarcustouchedhim.Hehadnotnoticeditlastnight,butnowitfeltlikeantscrawlingonhim,ofallthings.Itwasslightlyuncomfortable,butmostlyjustreallyweird.ItfadedawaywhenMarcusreleasedhim,leavingJakeponderingwhatitwas.

Nowsittingup,Jakehadaviewofthecourtyard,seeingthesmokerisingfromthenumerouscookfires,observingthegroupsofsoldiersworkingandnoticingtheguardsonthestonebattlementswatchingforanyapproachingdanger.Thesmellofcookingfoodsethisstomachgrowling.JakeblushedslightlywhenherealizedHailynhadheardit.

“Iwillgetyousomethingtoeat,Jake.”Shesaidassheslidoffthewagonbench.Jakewatchedherasshemadeherwaytowardsthenearestcookfire,noddingandrespondingtothegreetingsfromthesoldiers.

“HaveyouthoughtmoreonhowIcansettlemydebt?”Marcusasked,pullingJake’sattentionbacktohim.

“Look,Marcus,youdon’towemeanything.”Jakesaid,lookinghimintheeye.“WebothwantedKeriasafeandwebothdidwhatwecouldtomakethathappen.”Hepausedforamomentbeforecontinuing.“Iwouldliketocontinueourtruce,atleast.Iwouldratherhaveyouasafriendthananenemy.”

“WhataboutKeria?”Marcusaskedquietlyandintently,leaningclose.“Howcanwebefriendsifwebothwanther?”Henowpaused,lookingaway,thenlookedbackatJake,eyesdetermined.“Iwillnotstepaside.Iloveher.”Hestatedsimply.

Jakesighedheavily,lookingdown.Hedidnothaveagoodanswerforthat.Hetriedtoraisehishandtohisface,butcouldonlymakeitabouthalfway,hisarmshaking,thenletitfallbackintohislap.

“Letusputthatasidefornow.”Marcussaid,anoteofsympathyinhisvoice.“Iwillhonorourtruce.Wecandiscussitlater,onceyouhavehealed.”

Theyremainedtherequietly,bothlostintheirownthoughts,untilHailynreturnedwithaplateoffood.MarcustookitfromherandhelpedJakeeat.Thefoodwashotandsatisfying,distractingJakefromhistroublesforthemostpart.ThatstrangesensationreoccurredeverytimeMarcus’shandgotveryclosetoJake,almosttouching,fadingwhenheremovedit,takingsomeoftheenjoymentawayfromthefood.

AfterJakehadfinishedeating,Marcusexcusedhimselfandwentbacktothecommander’squarters.Adjustinghispositiontogetcomfortable,Jakejustsatthere,staringaimlesslyattheactivityinthecourtyard,hismindjumbledwiththoughtsofKeria,Marcusandhisphysicalcondition.Hailynsatonthebench,

watchinghim,butsayingnothing.“Howisourpatientthismorning?”Afemalevoiceintrudedintohis

thoughts,pullingJake’sattentionoutward.Jakesawamiddle-agedfemaleclericapproaching,aseriouslookonherplainface,herhair,streakedwithgrayandpulledtightlybackfromherface,tiedintoalongponytail.ShenoddedagreetingtoJakeandturnedtowardsHailyn.

“Heisbetterthanyesterday,SisterSilvan.”Hailynrepliedcourteously.“Heisstillphysicallyweak,butheknowswhereheisandhasanappetite.”

“Thatisgoodtohear.”Silvansaid.ShecameclosertoJake,peeringathisface,tryingtogaugehiscondition.Sheleanedin,studyinghisfaceandlookingoverhisbody.Whenshegotcloser,Jakecouldfeelthatcrawlingsensationagain,butitwasmuchstrongerthistime.Hefrowned,wonderingwhatitcouldbe.HewasnotsureifheshouldmentionittoHailyn,sinceshecouldnottouchhimtoseeiftherewasanythingwrong.Thankfully,Silvanbackedaway,apparentlysatisfied,andthesensationfadedaway.

“Iwillleavehiminyourcare,Hailyn.”Silvansaidasshemadetogo.“Tryandresttoday.WewillbeleavingatfirstlighttomorrowanddrivinghardforSanduas.”WithanodtoJake,shestrodeoff.

Fortherestoftheday,Jakesattherethinkingandkeptdriftinginandoutofsleep.Whenawake,hewasdistractedandfrustratedbyhisweakenedstate,notfeelingtheneedforconversation.Hailynseemedcontenttosimplybenearby,talkingwithJakewhenhewantedtotalk,sittingandquietlyreadingascrollwhenhewasquiet.

MarcuscameoutseveraltimestoseeifJakeneededanything,bringingwaterandfoodwhenasked.JakehadtoendureMarcushelpinghimtothelatrines,sincehislegswerenotabletosupporthisweighttogoonhisown.Marcustookitinstride,unaffected,butJakewasembarrassedtoneedhelpinthis,consciousofthesoldiersnearby,aswellasHailyn.Theindignityofnotbeingabletocareforhimself,combinedwiththatoddsensationthatreturnedwhenMarcushelpedhim,hadputJakeinafoulmoodbythetimehecamebacktothewagon.

Hesatthere,hisfrustrationandangerathimselfboilingover,and,forthewantofdoingsomething,reachedforhismagic.Hisfrustrationfadedwhen,afteramoment’sdelay,hefelthismagiccomealive.Itfilledhim,thatfamiliarthrillbrighteninghismood.Hecouldseethebluenimbusofhispowersurroundinghim.

“Jake,whatareyoudoing?”Hailynasked,concerninhereyes.

“IjustwantedtoseeifIcouldcallitup.”Jakesaid,holdingontohispowertightly.Withhismagic,hefeltstrongerandtriedtopushhimselfup.Tohissurpriseanddelight,hewasabletomove.Hestillfeltweak,buthewasabletoslowlymovetotheedgeofthewagon,swinginghislegsovertherear.Takingadeepbreath,hetriedtostandup.Hislegsbuckledforamoment,buthewasabletorecover.Lettinggoofthewagon,hetookahesitantstepawayandstoodthereswaying.

“Thatisenough,Jake.”Hailynsaidfirmly,afrownonherface.“Pleasegetbackintothewagon.Youshouldnottaskyourself.”

“I’malright,Hailyn.Ijustwanttotrysomething.”Jakesaid.Hestoodstillforafewseconds,gettinghisfeetunderhimandlegsset,andthenreleasedhispower.Immediately,hislegsgaveoutandhecollapsedtotheground.HemutteredcursesasseveralnearbysoldiersheardHailyn’sstartledcryandcametohisaid.

Beforehecouldattempttorecallhispowerandstand,theyliftedhimbackintothewagonatHailyn’scommand.Shecameovertostandnearhim,herfrustrationofnotbeingabletogetcloseortouchhimvisibleonherface.Jakegrumbledhisthankstothesoldiers,whoreturnedtowhattheyhadbeendoing.

“Jake,pleasetrytobepatient.”Hailynsaidgently.“Iknowyouwanttoreturntonormal,butitmaytakesometime.”

“Iknowthat!”Hesnappedather,immediatelyregrettingit.Heknewitwasnotherfaultanditwasn’tfairtotakeouthisfrustrationonher.

“I’msorry,Hailyn.”Jakesaid,lookingoverather.Hefeltevenguiltierwhenshegavehimaslightsmile.“Itisjustsofrustratingtohavetosithereandnotbeabletodoanything.”

“You’renotthefirstpatientwhohasbeencrosswithme,Jake.”Shesaidwithalittlelaugh.ShemovedclosertoJake,whichcausedhissensationtomanifest,stronglikeitwaswithSilvan.“WemusthavefaiththatMasterJonaswillreturnandfindasolutiontoyourcondition.”

JakenoddedandHailynsteppedaway,returningtothewagonbenchandthesensationfaded.Heembracedhispoweragain,allowinghimtomovearoundthewagonbedandgetcomfortable.Oncehesettledin,hereluctantlyreleasedthepower,feelingtheweaknessreturn.Hewasnotsurewhatwouldhappenifhetriedtocontinuouslyholdhismagic,rememberingTomaris’admonishmentaboutthemagiceventuallytiringhisbody.Inhisweakenedstate,itmightbesomethingdecidedlyunpleasant.Onthebrightside,hethought,atleastIwon’tneedsomeonetofeedmeorhelpmetothebathroom.

Lateintheafternoon,Keriaemergedfromthecommander’squartersandmadeherwaytothewagon,smilingandacknowledgingthesoldiersshepassed,Marcusatherside.ShegaveJakeawidesmilewhenshesawthathewassittingupandlookingather.Shehurriedovertothewagon,climbingintothebacktokneeldownnexttohim.

“Jake.”Keriasaid,joyandreliefinhervoice.Shetookhishand.“Iamsohappytoseeyouupandawake.Iwouldhavecomesooner,butthegarrisoncommander,CaptainGrashin,andIhavebeenplanningthereturntriptothecity.”

Jakesavoredthefeelofherhandinhis,despitethatoddsensationthatcamewithit.“Iunderstand,Keria.I’mjustgladtoseethatyou’resafe.”Hereplied.

“Iowethattoyou,Jake.”Shestatedquietly,leaningclose,smiling.“Yousavedmylife.WhenwereachSanduas,youneedonlyaskandIamsuremyfatherwillgrantyouwhateveryouwish.”Shegavehimameaningfullook.

Jakeflushedslightly,awareofMarcusandHailynstandingnearby,theclosestsoldierswatchingtheirexchange.“Let’sgetyoubacktothecityfirst,Keria.Wewillhavetimetodiscusseverythingthen.”HesaidasheglancedatMarcus.

Keriacaughthismeaning,noddingandreleasinghishand.“Ofcourse.Makesurethatyourest.”Shesaid.

Ratherthanleaving,shestoodupinthewagonbedandlookedoutoverthecourtyard.ShenoddedtoMarcus.

“Attention!”Heshouted.Thesoldiersinthecourtyardinstantlyreactedtothatorder,snappingupright

andallconversationsceased.Realizingwheretheordercamefrom,theyturnedtofacethewagon.Keriawaiteduntilshehadeveryone’sattention,thenspoke.

“IdeclarethatJakeThomasisaHeroofSanduas.”Shecalledout,voicecarryingacrossthecourtyard.“Hehasshownbraverybeyondwhatanyonewoulddemandandthroughhisactionsbroughtmeoutofbondage.Itismycommandthatallpresentherewillhonorhimandprovideanyaidorassistanceifheasks.”

Thesoldiers,almostinunison,drewtheirweapons,raisingtheminthesky.“HonortoJakeThomas!”TheyshoutedwhileJakeflusheddeepredattheattention.

Keriawaiteduntilthevoicesdieddown.“Further,LordMarcusisalsonamedaHeroofSanduas.Withoutanymagicalprotection,butonlyabraveheart,heaccompaniedJake,SisterHailynandBrotherJonasintothedemons’

lair.Hewastheirsword,keepingthemsafeandfightingtorescueme.Honorhimaswell.”

“HonortoLordMarcus!”Thesoldierscheeredagain,shakingtheirweapons.Marcusbowedinacknowledgement.

“WhileBrotherJonasandSisterHailyncannotbesonamedbecauseoftheircalling,Iaskedthatyouhonorthemaswell.”Keriacontinuedwhenrelativequietdescendedoverthecourtyard.“TheyfaceddownahostofImpsandaDemonLordtofreeme,withtheirpowerandfaithintheOnebringingtheLightintothatdarkplace.Iwillalwaysbeintheirdebt.”ShegesturedforHailyntostand.

Hailynstoodandraisedherhand.“WeclericsarebutservantsoftheOne.”Shestated,gesturingtowardstheotherclericsinthecourtyard.“WewoulddothesameforanyofHischildren.HonorHim,forHeprovidedourstrengthandallowedustobevictorious.”

Thesoldiersletoutanothercheer.“HonortotheOneandHisclerics!”TakingMarcus’hand,Keriasteppeddownfromthewagonasthesoldiers

returnedtotheirduties,thecourtyardbuzzingwiththeirconversations.ShelookedatJake,hereyesshiningwithjoy.“IwillleaveyouinHailyn’scare.Wewillberidingwithoutstoptothecityatfirstlight,sogetsomerest.”

AfterKeriawentbackinside,Jakedecidedtoinquireaboutashower.Hissaddlebagswereinthewagon,sohecalleduphismagicandpulledoutasetofcleanclothes.Hewasabletoslowlywalktotheshowerpoint,accompaniedbyasoldieratHailyn’srequest.

Bythetimehehadcleanedupandchangedhisclothes,thesunwassetting.Ashemadehiswaybacktothewagon,heobservedthesoldierslightingthewatchtorches.Eventhoughhehadnotwalkedagreatdistance,hecouldfeelhislegsgettingshakydespitehispower,sohewasgratefultoclimbbackintothewagonbedandleanagainsttherails.Heheldontohispoweruntilhefinishedeating,andthenreleasedit.Heembracedtheweaknessthatsettledoverhisbodyandallowedhimselftofallintosleep.

…Jakestartedawakewhenthefirsthornssounded,callingthesoldierstorise.

Theskywasstilldarkasthecourtyardcamealivewithsoundasthesoldiersbeganrollinguptheirblankets,packingawaytheirsuppliesanddonningtheirarmorandweapons.Jakesawgroupsofsoldiersthatwerereadyheadingouttheopengate.Hailynwasalreadyup,speakingwithacoupleofnearbysoldiers.ShenoticedthatJakewasawakeandcameover.

“Oncethesoldiersclearoutofthecourtyard,thehorseswillbebroughtinandhookeduptothewagons.”Shetoldhim.“Oncethatisdone,wewillbeginthetripback.”Shetossedawrappedpacketnexttohim.“Itiscoldrationsthismorning.”

Jakeembracedhispower,hisshiningformthrowingbackthenight,andarrangedhisarmor,saddlebagsandblanketstoformamakeshiftseatinthewagonbed,sohecouldfaceforward.Ashewasdoingthis,thehorseswerebroughtinandsoldiershookedthemtothewagon.ThesoldierssalutedJakewhentheywerefinished,whichheawkwardlyreturned.

Hailyntookthereinsandstartedthewagonoutofthegates.Theyweredirectedtoaspottowaitfortherestoftheformationtogather,severalsoldiersonhorsebackstandingguardcloseby.Whiletheywaited,JakefinishedhisrationsandtalkedquietlywithHailyn.

Astheskybegantolightenintheeast,thehornssoundedagain.CaptainGrashinrodeovertohisofficersand,aftergivingthemtheirorders,calledforthearmytoformup.Keria’scarriagewasthelasttoleavethesecurityofthefortress.Marcus,hisarmorreflectingthelightofthetorches,wasridingnexttoit.Asbefore,theydeployedthebulkoftheforcesandclericsaroundthecarriage,withJakeandHailynplaceddirectlybehindthecarriage.Withafinalblastofthehorns,theformationbegantomove.

WithHailynbusyguidingthehorses,Jakespentthedaybouncingaroundthewagon,embracinghispowerwhenheneededtomove,butotherwisewithnothingtodo.Theformationpickedupspeedwhentheymadeitontothehighway,startledtravelershurryingofftheroadasthearmypassed.

Intheearlyafternoon,hismindwandering,Jakewassittingthereboredwhencallsbegantosoundthroughouttheformation.AtCaptainGrashin’sshoutedorder,thearmycametoahalt.JakesawMarcusgiveastart,leanovertosaysomethingtoKeria,thenrideforward.Afterseveralminutes,Jakeheardthesoundofapproachinghorsesandsawalargegroupofsoldiers,coveredinchainmailandleather,shieldsandswordshangingfromtheirhorses,rideuptoKeria’scarriagebehindMarcusandCaptainGrashin.

AsJakestudiedthem,hecouldjustmakeouttheepauletspinnedtotheirarmor.Theyallworethesameinsigniaofarearingbear.Theinsigniaseemedfamiliar,butittookJakeamomenttorecognizethatitwasthesameimagethatwasonMarcus’shield.

CHAPTERFOUR

Curiousaboutwhatwashappeningandtiredofjustsittinginthewagon,Jakeembracedhispower,feelingitgivehimaburstofstrength.IgnoringHailyn’sadmonitiontoremain,heslowlyslidfromthewagonbedandmadehiswaycautiouslytowardsKeria’scarriage.AtHailyn’ssignal,asoldiershadowedhimcloselyincasehefaltered.Hailynquicklyclimbeddownfromthewagonandjoinedhimaswell.JakegrittedhisteethatHailyn’sover-protectiveness,butdidnotsayanything.

Whentheygotclose,theyheardMarcusalreadyexplainingthesituationtoKeria,whohadsteppeddownfromhercarriage.“CaptainJustianismyfather’schiefman-at-arms.”Marcussaidashepointedatthelargemanattheheadofthenewsoldiers’formation.“Hispartywassenttoaidourrescueattempt.”HenoddedatJustian.“Captain,pleasecontinue.”

“YourHighness.”Justiansaidrespectfully,hisdeepvoicerumbling,withanodofhishead.“Amessengerfromthecapitalcametomylordandlady,tellingthemofyourcaptureandoftherescueattempt.LordMarcelasgatheredtwohundredofhismen-at-armsanddepartedforthecapital,toassistyourfatherifneeded.Despitethesmallchanceofsuccess,giventhetimethathadpassed,hesentmypartysouthinanattempttojoinupwiththearmyor,barringthat,attempttolocatewhereyouwerebeingheld.”

“Youandyourmenhavemythanksformakingsuchaneffort.”Keriareplied.“IamsurethatmyfatherappreciatesLordMarcelas’response.”

“Withyourpermission,wewilljoinyourforcetoescortyoubacktothecapital.”Justiansaid.

“Yourpresencewillbemostwelcome,CaptainJustian.”Keriastated.Shelookedatthesmallcrowdaroundhercarriage,smilingwhenshesawJakestandingattheedge.“Weshouldcontinueon,don’tyouagree,CaptainGrashin?”

“Atonce,YourHighness.”Grashinreplied.HelookedovertoMarcus.“Yourfather’smencanreinforcethesoldiersatthefrontandrearoftheformation.”

MarcusnoddedandturnedtoJustian.“Deploythemen,Captain,thenreturntoridenexttome.”

“LordMarcus.”Justiansaidwithasalute.Herodeovertohismen,speakingquietlywithhislieutenants.

“Weshouldgetbacktothewagon.”HailynsaidtoJakeasthenearbysoldiersbegantoredeploytotheirassignedpositions.Jakenodded,turningbacktothewagon,bitingbackacurseashislegsbuckledabit.Hecaughthimself,willinghislegstobesteady,andmadehiswaybacktothewagon,Hailynandthesoldiercloseby.Hewasgratefulthathewasabletoclimbintothewagonbedwithoutanyassistance.Henoddedhisthankstothesoldier,whogaveJakeasaluteandwenttoremounthishorse.

AsJakewassettlingbackintohismakeshiftseat,theordertoresumethemarchwascalledout.Withthecreakingofleatherandwood,theformationbegantomove,slowlyatfirstthenwithmorespeed.

Oncethearmyhadsettledintoitspace,JakeaskedHailynifsheknewanythingaboutMarcus’family.SheshiftedinherseatsothatshewassittinginapositiontowatchtheroadaheadwhilenothavingtoturnherheadtospeaktoJake.

“MasterJonashastaughtmeaboutsomeofthecourtpoliticsandthenoblefamilies.”Shesaid.“Marcus’fatherislordoveralargeholdingoflandinthenorthwesternpartofSanduas,borderingtheInlandSea.Theirfamilycrestistherearingbear,asymbolofthewildanimalsthatliveintheforestedmountainsoftheirholdings.Theyhavelargetimber,fishingandfarmingconcerns.Hisfamilyisoneoftherichestandmostpowerfulofthenoblefamilies.Assuch,Marcus’fatherhasagreatdealofinfluenceinthecapitalwhenheisatcourt.”

Sheglancedaround,makingsurethatnoonewastoocloseandloweredhervoice.“Whilestillveryattractive,hismotherwasconsideredthegreatbeautyofthekingdominheryouth.Rumorhasitthatshehadhopedtobequeen,butwasmarriedtoLordMarcelaswhenhisfatherrequesteditfromKingHenold,Keria’sgrandfather.SomesaythatleftLadyAreliabitteranddistantfromhersons.”

“Sons?”Jakesaid,surprised.Sincehedidnotreallyknowhim,hehadassumedMarcuswasanonlychild.

“Marcushasabrother,Rolas.”Hailynsaid.“Heisfouryearsolder,butspendsmostofhistimeattheirholdings.Heisknownasagreathunterandfighter.”Shesighedsadly.“Ihavebeentoldthattheyarenotcloseandonlyspeaktoeachotherwhennecessary.”

Jakemulledthatover,thinkingofhisownyoungerbrother.HeandRusswerealsoaboutfouryearsapart.WhileRusscouldannoythehelloutofhimattimes,theywerestillprettyclose.JakecouldnotimaginewhatitwouldtakeforhimtodislikeRussenoughtonotspeakwithhim.

“ItwaspartlybecauseofthistensionthatMarcuswassenttothecityfouryearsago.”Hailyncontinued.“TheofficialreasonwasforhimtotrainwiththeRoyalGuard,butMasterJonasknowsotherwise.”

“Thanks,Hailyn.”Jakesaid,studyingMarcusridingahead,Justiannexttohim.HewassurprisedthathefeltsorryforMarcus’situation.

Afterareststopinthelateafternoon,wordwasrelayedthatthearmywouldnotstopforthenight,butdriveonuntiltheyreachedSanduas.Theclericswentaroundhealingthehorsestomakesuretheycouldcarryon,andthenthearmycontinued.Asthesunsankbehindthehorizonanddarknessenvelopedthesurroundingplains,theoutriderslittorches,lightingtheway.Thepaceslowedabit,butwithsolidroadbeneaththem,thearmyrodeconfidentlyahead.

Shortlybeforedawn,theycameupontheRoyalHighwayandturnedeast.Afterridingallnight,thesun,shiningbrilliantlyintheclearblueskybeforethem,gavethemrenewedenergy.Grashinsentsomeridersaheadtoclearthehighway,thenpickedupthepace.Soldiersandclericsateinthesaddleastheyrodeon.Theymadeabriefstopnearmid-daytoallowtheclericstocheckontheconditionofthehorses,andthenstartedforwardagain.

JakerecognizedthewaystationwhereheandDominichadstoppedwhenhefirstarrivedastheypassedbyintheearlyafternoon.Thatgavehimanideaoftheremainingdistancetothecity.Henoticedtravelersliningtheroadnearthehighway,movedasidetoallowthearmytopass.Asthewaystationfellawaybehindthem,hewasgladtoknowthatthejourneywouldbeoversoon.

Thesunwasclosetosettingwhentheymadetheirwaythroughthefoothills,crestingthefinalhillandseeingthecitylyingbeforethem.Acheersprangupamongstthesoldiersandseveralbegantosoundhorns.Grashinincreasedthepace,movingasfastasthewagonswouldallow.Astheydrewcloser,Jakecouldhearhornsreplyingfromthecity.Hesawsoldiersmovingouttolinetheroadastheyapproachedthecitygates,whichwereopenandinviting.

Theformationslowedasthefirstridersreachedthegateandturnedasidetoformupalongthewalls,clearingthewayfortheKeria’scarriageandtheotherwagons.JakeheardthecheersandshoutsfromtheassembledsoldiersasKeriapassed,hercurtainspulledbacksothemencouldseeher.Echoesfromthehorsesandwagonssoundedastheypassedthroughthetunnelandrodeintothecourtyard.Anothersetofcrieswentupfromtheassembledcrowdswhofilledthecourtyard,residentsandnoblesalike.ThestreetleadingtothepalacewaslinedwithRoyalGuardsmenandregularsoldiers.SeveralGuardsmenonhorsebackformedupnexttothecarriageasitcontinuedupthestreet,their

officerspeakingwithMarcus.MarcusdroppedbacknexttoHailynandJake.“Continuetothepalace.”He

said.“OurpresencehasbeenrequestedbyKeria.Shewishestoacknowledgeourroleinherrescuebeforethekingandassembledcourt.”

Nightwassettlingoverthecityastheypassedthroughtheroyalcourtyardandenteredthepalacegrounds.Astheycametoastopnearthepalaceentrance,JakenoticedthatsoldiersbearingMarcus’familyemblemweremixedinwiththeRoyalGuardspreadthroughoutthepalacegrounds.Severalgroomscamedownthepalacestepstotakecontrolofthehorses,allowingthemtodismount.

Jakeembracedhispower,lightingthearea,thenclimbedoffthewagonandretrievedhisarmorandsword.IfMarcuswerewearinghisarmor,Jakewoulddothesame.Hetriedtohurry,butevenwithhispower,hewashavingdifficultieswiththestraps.Marcussawhimstrugglingandcameovertoassisthim.

“Thanks,Marcus.”JakesaidasMarcushelpedhimgethisarmorinplace.Marcussimplygavehimanodand,onceJake’sarmorwassecured,movedovertostandnexttoKeria,whowaswaitingbyhercarriage,watchingthem.Jakebeltedonhisswordandwentovertojoinher.

Hailyncameoverandtheymovedintothepalace,followingKeriaastwoRoyalGuardinceremonialarmorescortedher.Whentheyreachedthethroneroom,thedoorswerealreadyopenandJakecouldseethekingonhisthrone.Theguardsstoppedatthedoor,butKeriacontinuedpastintothecrowdedhall.ThekingrosewhenhecaughtsightofKeriawalkingdownthecentercarpetandcamedownthedaissteps.Keriacontinuedtomovetowardsherfatheratacontrolledpace,ignoringthesuddenmurmuringofvoicesthatspreadthroughthehall.JakefollowedMarcus’sleadwhenhestoppedseveralyardsfromthedais,allowingKeriatowalkthefinaldistancealone.

“Father.”Keriasaidformallyasshestoppedandcurtsiedtotheking,hervoicecarryingacrossthehall.“Ihavebeenrescuedfromourenemiesandhavereturnedtoyou.”

Theking,eyesfilledwithtearsofjoy,repliedformallyaswell.“Iampleasedtoseeyouingoodhealthandpraisethosewhorescuedyou.”Withthat,hesteppedforwardandembracedKeria,hisarmsfoldingaroundherandholdingtight.Jakeheardhimsay“Mydearestdaughter…”beforethewordsweredrownedoutfromthecheersthateruptedfromtheassemblednobles.

ThekingheldKeriaforalongmoment,thenreluctantlysteppedback,Keriaturningtostandathisside,hishandstillonherarm.Heraisedahandandthe

cheersdied,thehallgoingquiet.“Ideclarethattherewillbethreedaysofcelebrationtohonorthereturnoftheprincess.Theplanningwillstarttomorrow,butfortonight,Iwishtobealonewithmydaughter.”ThecrowdrespondedwithbowsandcurtsiesandbegantomovetotheexitswhenKeriaspokeup.

“Wait.”Shesaidloudly,thecrowdstoppingandturningbacktowardsthedais.“Forgiveme,Father,butIwouldliketoacknowledgethosethatrescuedmebeforewedepart.”Attheking’snod,shegesturedforJake,MarcusandHailyntostepforward.

“Iwouldnotbeheretonightbutfortheeffortsofthesethree,alongwithBrotherJonasandLordDominic.”Keriastated.“LordMarcus,JakeThomasandSisterHailynbravedthefortressofthedemonswhocapturedmeandfoughttofreeme.JakeThomaschallengedthedemonlordwhileLordMarcusandSisterHailynbattledtheotherdemonsandtheirfollowers.ThroughJake’ssacrifice,theydestroyedthedemonlordanddroveofftheotherdemons.Torecognizetheirheroics,IhavedeclaredthatLordMarcusandJakeThomasareHeroesofSanduas,worthyofallhonor.”

Whenshepaused,thehalleruptedinanotherroundofcheers.Keriaraisedherhandandthecheeringquieted.

“IcannotoverstatethecourageofBrotherJonasandSisterHailyn.”Shecontinued.“Theywereoutnumberedbythedemonhordes,butthroughtheirpowerandfaithintheOne,theystoodagainstthem,wieldersoftheLightagainsttheDark.”

“Lastly,IwouldberemissifIdonotnotethecrucialroleLordDominichadinourvictory.HefoughttoprotectJakeThomasandensurethesuccessoftheirmission,severelywoundingthedemonlordinthebattleandnearlylosinghislifeforthedeed.”Shelookedtowardsherfather.“Iknowthatyouhaveyourdifferenceswithhim,Father,butIaskthatyouhonorhiminthis.”

“Iwouldgladlyhonorhim,ifhewouldacceptit.”Thekingsaid.“WhereareDominicandBrotherJonas?Forthatmatter,whereisSirAlleon,whomIentrustedthismission?Iwasinformedthattheywerenotwithyourparty.”

“Onmycommand,theywentbacktothedemons’fortresswithaforceofclericsandsoldierstofreetheothercaptivesbeingheld,aswellasdestroyanyremainingdemonsandhalf-men.”Keriasaidproudly.“Theywillreturnoncethatisaccomplished.”

“Whentheyreturn,IwillspeakwiththemaboutwhathonorsIcanbestow.”Thekingsaid.HelookedoveratJake,wavingathisglowingpower.“Whydo

youneedyourmagic,JakeThomas?Therearenoneherethatwillharmyou.”“Jakeweakenedhimselfwhenhesavedme,Father.”Keriainterjectedas

Jakestruggledtofigureoutawaytoexplainit.“HeneedshispowerforstrengthuntilBrotherJonasreturnsandfindawaytohelphim.”

ThekinglookedcloserandsawthedamagedonetoJake.Whenhespokeagain,hisvoicewasgrateful.“IwillnotforgetwhatyouhavedoneforSanduasandforme.Iaminyourdebtforsavingmydaughter’slife.Ifyouneedanything,cometomeanditwillbeprovided.”

“Thankyou,YourMajesty.”Jakesaid,bowingslightly.“IamsimplyhappythatKeriaissafe.”HeglancedoveratMarcusandHailyn.“Also,Ican’ttakeallofthecredit.KeriawouldnotbefreeifIdidnothaveDominic,Jonas,MarcusandHailynwithme.”

“Suchmodestydoesyoucredit,Jake.”Thekingreplied.“Nevertheless,theofferstands.”

Hestraightenedandlookedoutacrossthehall.“Thisaudienceisatanend.”Hepronounced.“Mycouncilwillmeetmid-morningtodiscussthecelebrations.Goodnighttoyouall.”Withthat,heturnedandledKeriaofftowardshisprivatechamber.Kerialookedbackatthegroupandgavethemasmallwavebeforedisappearingthroughthedoors.

Jakecouldfeelhislegsstartingtoquiverastheyturnedandstartedtowardsthemaindoors.Theywerealmosttothepressofpeopleleavingthehallwhenaman’svoicecalledoutbehindthem.“Marcus.”

Marcusstoppedandturnedaround,JakeandHailyndoingthesame.Jakesawahandsomeoldermanapproaching,tallandlean,withgray-streakeddarkcurlyhair,dressedinfineclothes.JakecouldnothelpbutthinkthatthisishowMarcuswouldlooklaterinlife,sosimilarwasthemaninappearance.

Walkingnexttohimwasastrikinglybeautifulwoman,almostastallastheman,dressedinadarksilkdressthatclungtoherbody.Jakeguessedshewasinherearlyforties,herporcelainfacestillsmooth,buthintsoffinelinesaroundherdarkeyesandredlips,withwispsofgrayvisibleinherlong,darkhair.Whileshewasphysicallyattractive,Jakegotasenseofcoldnessradiatingfromher,afeelingofaloofnesstotheplightofothers.MaybeitwasthelackofwarmthinhereyeswhenshelookedatMarcusortheneutralappearanceonherface,butJakeimmediatelyfelthewouldnotwanttobethepersontocrossher.

“Father.”Marcussaidtotheman.Hegaveaslightbowtothewoman.“Mother.”

“Wewerepleasedtohearthatyouaccompaniedthequesttofreethe

princess,son.”LordMarcelassaidashecameupandhuggedMarcus.“Youhavebroughtgreathonortoourhouse.”

HesteppedbackandMarcus’mothercameforward.LadyAreliadidnotembraceherson,butsimplytouchedhisface.“Iamgladtoseeyouunharmed,Marcus.”ShedidnotsoundlikeaconcernedmotherorparticularlygladtoJake.“Itappearsthatyourtraininghereinthecity,whilekeepingyoufromhome,hasbeenworthwhile.”

“Morelikehehadthemagic-wielderstoprotecthim.”AtallmanbehindMarcus’parentsspat,lookingatMarcus.Hewasinhistwenties,dressedinmailwithaswordbeltedon.Whilehetookafterhismother,hestillcloselyresembledMarcus,soJakefiguredoutwhohewasbeforehesaidwithcontemptinhiseyes.“Isn’tthatright,brother?”

Marcusfrownedatthat,meetinghisbrother’sstare,eyesangry,butsimplysaid.“Ifyousayso,brother.”

Jake,feelinguncomfortablebeingcaughtinthisfamilydynamic,lookedatHailyn,tryingtosubtlymotionwithhiseyesthattheyshouldleave.Beforetheycouldstartmoving,LordMarcelasspoke,disappointmentandangerclearinhisvoice.“Rolas,thatwasunkindandbeneathyou.DonotbelittleMarcus’accomplishment,especiallyinfrontofhiscomrades.”AfterwaitinguntilRolassullenlynodded,LordMarcelasturnedandlookedexpectantlyatJakeandHailyn.

“Father,asyouheard,thisisJakeThomasandSisterHailyn.”Marcussaid,gesturingtowardsthemandbreakingthestarewithhisbrother.“Theybothshowedgreatcourageinthefaceofourenemies.Withoutbothofthem,itislikelythatourmissionwouldhavefailed.”

“Iextendthethanksofourhousetoyouaswell.”LordMarcelassaidurbanelyasheextendedhishandtoJake.Jaketookit,noticingthefirmgripandcallousedhands.LordMarcelasgaveaslightbowtoHailyn.“YouwillalwaysfindwelcomeatourholdashonoredcomradesofMarcus.”

“Iwouldaddmythanks,aswell.”LadyAreliasaid,herdarkeyesfocusedonJake.Jakefeltuncomfortableasshelookedathim,thosecoldeyesstudyinghim.“IamgladthatMarcushassuchfriends.”

“Thankyou,mylordandlady.”Hailynrepliedwithanodofherhead.“Youhonorus.IknowthatyouwanttocatchupwithyoursonandIneedtogetJakehometorest,sowewilltakeourleaveofyou.”

“Ofcourse.”LordMarcelassaid.“Goodnight,Sister.Jake.”Heheadedtowardsthedoors,hiswifeandRolasfollowinghim.

Marcuslingeredforamoment.“Ifyouneedme,sendamessageandIwillcome.”Hesaid,lookingatJake.“IassumeyouwillbewiththeMastersmithandhisfamily?”

“Yes.”Jakesaid.“Untilthen,goodnight.”Marcussaidtothemandlefttofollowhisfamily.JakeandHailynmadetheirwaybackoutside,thepaceslowasJakefelthis

strengthbegintofade.Bythetimethegroomsbroughtthewagontotheentrance,hislegswerequivering.Hegratefullyclimbedintothewagon,sweatingfromhiseffortstostayupright,andlethispowergo.

ItonlytookafewminutestorideovertoNorlan’shouse,findingwarmlightstreamingfromthewindows.JakewassurprisedtoseeNorlan,MadalinandCherisesittingonthefrontporch,MaxislayingatCherise’sfeet.Theystoodasthewagonapproached,Maxisrisingandplacinghimselfbetweenthemandthegate.WhenHailynstoppedthewagonandcalledoutagreetingtothefamily,Jakeusedhismagicagain,slowlyclimbingoutofthewagon.Hetookslowhesitantstepstowardsthegate,Hailynhoveringcloseby.HemadeitjustinsidethegatewhenMaxiscollidedwithhim,knockinghimtotheground.JakecoldnothelpbutlaughashefoundhimselftryingtopushthedogawayasMaxishappilylickedhisface.

“Getoffhim,youdumbdog.”Norlansaidgood-naturedlyashepulledMaxisaway,allowingJaketogetbacktohisfeet.

Madalin,tearsofjoyinhereyes,threwherarmsaroundhim,pullinghimclose,herhugtight.Onceshefinallyreleasedhim,Cherisecameupandgavehimaquickhug,asmileonherface.Jakewasgladtoseethatshewasbetterspiritsthanwhenhelastsawher.

“Weheardthatyourpartyhadreturned,butwewerenotallowedintothepalacegrounds.”Norlansaid,stillholdingontoMaxis,whosetailwaswaggingenthusiastically.“Wehopedthatyouwouldreturnhereafterthenoblesfinishedwithyou.”

“What’shappenedtoyou,Jake?”Madalinasked,alarminhervoiceasshelookedcloselyatJake’sface.Hereyeswereworriedasshecarefullyreachedupandtouchedthewhitestreaksinhishair.

“SomethinghappenedwhenIwasusingmymagictotrytorescuetheprincess.”Jakesaid,gratefulforherconcern.“Jonasisnotcompletelysurehowithappenedandhastoresearchtheissuebeforehecandoanythingaboutit.”

“Whereishe,bytheway?”Norlanasked.“IexpectedeitherheorDominic

tobewithyou.”“Itisalongstory.”Jakereplied.Hegesturedtowardsthehouse.“Let’sgo

sitdownandwecantellyouwhathappened.”“Ofcourse,Jake.”Madalinsaid,gentlyholdingontohisarm.Shewalked

nexttohimastheyheadedbacktothehouse.Maxisbarkedunhappilyashewasleftoutsidewhiletheotherswentinside,settlinginatthekitchentable.

MadalinbroughtoversomefruitandwaterasJakeandHailyntoldthemeverythingthathappenedsincetheyleftthecity.Theydescribedthebattleatthedemons’lairandexplainedwhattheyknewofJake’sinfirmity.HailynspokeaboutwhytheclericscouldnotyethelpJake.TheyfinishedwithKeriasendingDominicandJonasagainstthedemonsandoftheirreturnjourneytothecity.

“Thatisenoughfornow;wehaveplentyoftimetotalk.”Madalinsaidfirmly,standingandendingtheconversation.“Youshouldgotoyourroomandgetsomerest,Jake.Iwillmakesurethatyouarenotdisturbed.”Basedonthelookonherface,Jakepitiedthepersonwhotriedtodisturbhim.

MadalinlookedoveratHailyn,studyingher.“Youneedrestaswell,Hailyn.”

“Ido.”Hailynsaidasshestood.“IalsoneedtogetthewagonandhorsesbacktotheTemple.IwillcomebytomorrowtocheckonJake.”Shestartedforthedoor.“TheblessingsoftheOnebeuponyou.”

“Letmeseeyouout.”NorlansaidandjoinedHailynasshewentoutthefrontdoor.

“Toyourroom,Jake.”Madalinsaiddeterminedly.Jakegaveherasmileandstood,movingtowardsthebackdoor,Madalinaccompanyinghim.

Thenightairwascoolandthestarswereshiningbrightlyashecrossedthepatioandenteredhisroom.Oncehewasinside,Madalinaskedifheneededanything.“Somewaterwouldbenice.”Jakeansweredandshelefttogethimapitcher.

Afterhehadunbeltedhissword,hangingitfromapeginthewall,andgratefullysatdownonhisbed,thecurtainpulledbackandNorlanenteredwithhissaddlebagsoverhisshoulder,Maxisstickinghisheadinaswell.“Hailynsaidthesewereyours.”Norlansaidasheputthemonthestoolinthecorner.

“Thanks,Norlan.”Jakesaid,yawning.Feelingthecomfortofthebedunderhim,sleepcalledtohim.“Wouldyoumindhelpingmetogetoutofmyarmor?”

“Ofcourse.”Norlansaid,comingoverandassistingJakeinundoinghisarmorstraps.OnceJakeremovedit,Norlantookthearmorandstackeditneatlynexttothesaddlebags.

“Iamsogladtoseeyouagain,Jake.”Norlansaidasheturnedback,hisvoicethickwithemotion.“Ihaveprayedforyoursafereturn.”HecameoverandembracedJake,hispowerfularmsholdinghimtight.“Itoldyouthatyouhavebecomelikeasontome.”

“Iamgladtobeback.”JakesaidwhenNorlan,lookingsomewhatembarrassedbyhisemotionaldisplay,releasedhim.“Idon’tthinkIwouldbeabletodealwithallthiswithoutyouandMadalin.”

“Ithasbeenourpleasure.”Norlansaidkindlyashemadetoleave.“Getsomesleep.”Hepausedatthedoorway,lookingback.“Wewilldowhateverisneededtofindawaytohelpyougetbetter.”Withthat,heleft.

AfterMadalinreturnedwiththewater,thenleft,blowingoutthecandlesasshewent,Jakepulledoffhisclothesandclimbedintobed.Hereleasedhismagic,wearinessquicklyspreadingthroughhisbody.Hebegantodriftoffwhenheheardthecurtainmove.HelookedovertoseeMaxisentertheroom.ThedogcameoverandlaidhisheadonthebednexttoJake.JakewasstartledthathecouldfeelthatstrangecrawlingsensationwhenMaxiswasclose.

AfteraquicknudgeagainstJakewithhishead,Maxismovedawayandlaydown,curlingupatthefootofthebed.ThesensationfadedonceMaxismoved,butasJakethoughtaboutit,herealizedthathehadnotfeltthatsensationfromanyonewhenhehadbeenholdinghismagic.Hebegantoconsiderwhatthatcouldmean,butexhaustionovertookhimandhefadedoffintosleep.

CHAPTERFIVE

TheclashofsteelagainststeelreverberatedoffthewallsurroundingthetrainingareaasMarcusparriedtheswordblowaimedathisheadandclosedwithhisopponent,ayoungmanencasedinthearmoroftheRoyalGuard,withanopen-facedhelmatophisheadandashieldonhisleftarm.Heslammedhisshieldintohisopponent’s,drivingtheyoungmanback.Hethrusthisswordintothesmallopeninginhisopponent’sguardastheyoungmantriedtorecoverhisbalance.Hisopponentparriedtheblowjustintime,butcouldnotavoidMarcus’shieldwhenheswungitagain.Theyoungmantriedtoraisehisownshieldtoblockit,butwastooslowandMarcus’blowhithiminhishelmandsenthimtumblingtotheground,losinghisgriponhissword.Marcusclosedwithhim,bringinghisswordoverheadforthefinishingblow.

“Iyield!”Theyoungmancried,raisinghisemptyswordhand,alookoffearonhisfaceashesawthefireinMarcus’eyes.

Marcusstopped,cursingunderhisbreath,loweringhisswordandshakinghishead.IletRolasgetundermyskinagain.Hethoughtbitterlytohimself.Hesheathedhisswordandofferedhisopponentahandtohelphimup.

“Ithoughtyouweregoingtotakemyheadoff.”TheyoungmansaidashistookMarcus’hand.“DoIoweyoumoneyIhaveforgottenabout?”

“Iapologize,Daen.”Marcussaid,pullingtheyoungmantohisfeet.“Ihadalongnightandletmyemotionsgetthebetterofme.”

“Nexttime,letmeknowwhenyouareinthatkindofmoodandIwillhaveNathensparwithyou.”Daenreplied,takingoffhishelmandrubbinghishead,indicatingtheotheryoungmanleaningagainsttherailsontheedgeofthetrainingarea.

“Iwarnedyouthathelookedlikehewasoutforblood.”Nathencalledoverwithalaugh.“Youarejusttoobull-headedtoheedmyadvice.”

MarcusgrinnedslightlyatthatasheandDaenwalkedovertoNathen.ThesetwowerehisclosestfriendsamongsttheRoyalGuard.TheyhadbeeninthesametrainingclasswhenMarcusfirstarrivedinthecity.BothDaenandNathenhadgraduatedandtakentheirplaceintherankswhileMarcuscontinuedtotrain.MarcuswasnotallowedtoactuallyjointheGuard,duetohisrankandposition,thoughhewasunofficiallyinductedbytheGuardsmen,allowinghimtoshareinthecamaraderieandclosebondthatdevelopedbetweenthesoldiers.

Hisfriendshipwiththesetwowassurprisinggiventheirdifferent

backgrounds.Daen,closetoMarcusinheightandsize,withatannedface,lightbrownhairandgreeneyes,wasafarmer’sson.Hisfamily,astheyhadformanygenerations,farmedasmallholdinginthesouthwestofthecountry.Withfourolderbrothersandonesistertocarryonthefarmingtradition,Daen’sfatherdecidedthathewantedadifferentlifeforhisyoungestsonandsenthimtothecapitaltoapprenticeatrade.Muchtohisfather’sdismay,DaendecidedtojointheRoyalGuardinstead.MarcusknewofnootherrecruitthathadworkedashardanddiligentlyasDaen,whoheldhimselftothehigheststandard.WhileDaenhadnotexcelledatthecombatarts,hewassmartandascapableasanyintheGuard.

Ontheotherhand,Nathen,slenderandalittleshorterthantheothertwo,withaleanfaceandshortblondhairandblueeyes,wasfromaminornoblefamily.Hewastheonlysonofhisfamily,withanolderandayoungersister.HisfathersenthimtothecityspecificallytotrainwiththeRoyalGuardtoenhancetheirstandinginthepeckingorderofthenoblefamilies.Nathenwaslessthanenthusedwhenhefirststartedtraining,usedtolivingalifeofrelativeease.Earlyon,hewasnotonetoobeytherules,especiallythosehethoughtwereoutdatedorirrelevant.Thoughhisinstructorshadconsidereddismissinghimonseveraloccasions,Nathenhaddemonstratedtalentwiththeswordandbow.ThoseskillshadkeptNathenintrainingandheeventuallystoppedfightingtherules,thoughhewouldtellanyonewhoaskedwhathethoughtaboutthem.Healsohadamischievousstreakthatmanifesteditselfwithpranksandjokes,oftenattheexpenseofMarcusandDaen.

Thethreehadbondedwhentheinstructorshadassignedthemtotraintogether,holdingeachaccountablefortheactionsoftheothers.Sometensionhaddevelopedbetweenthematfirst,butthatsoonpassedastheyfoundthemselvesgrowingclosertogetherastheyfacedacommonadversary-theirinstructors.Thetraininghadbeenphysicallyandmentallychallengingandthethreewereabletoleanoneachothertomakeitthrough.Marcuswasgratefulthattheirfriendshiphadcontinuedafterthetraininghadfinished;thesetwowereascloseasbrotherstohimnow.

Hisrealbrother,ofcourse,wasthereasonhehadgonetoDaenandNathenintheearlymorning,askingthemtocomesparwithhim.RolashadcontinuedtoneedleMarcus,mockingandchallenginghim,ashetriedtotellhisparentswhathadoccurredduringtherescuemission.TheyhadgoneuptotheroomsinthepalacethatthekinghadsetasideforMarcus’family,sittingdowninthecomfortablechairsofthelibrary.Hisfatherhadtriedtokeepthepeace,

admonishingRolasandencouragingMarcus,whilehismothersattherewatchingquietly.Finally,Marcus’patiencewithhisbrotherhadreacheditsendandonlytheirfather’sorderhadpreventeditfromcomingtoblows.Marcushadgonetohisroom,butsleepwouldnotcome,soheslippedoutquietlyandwenttofindhisfriendstoworkoffhisanger.

“Whathasyouinsuchamood,Marcus?”Daenasked.“Ifiguredyouwouldbehappytobebackinthecity.”

“Rolas.”Marcusstatedshortly.“Ahh.”Daensaidsympathetically,sharingalookwithNathen.TheyknewofMarcus’estrangementfromhisbrother.Marcushadtoldthem

muchofwhathappened,butnotall.Theyknewthatthetwohaveneverbeenclose.MarcushadtoldthemofRolas’jealousyofhisrelationshipwiththeirfather,whomRolassaidfavoredtheyoungersonovertheolder.Rolashadalwaysbeenoutspokeninhisclaimastherightfulheirtotheirfamily’sholdingsandsawMarcusasathreattothat.

WhatMarcuskepttohimselfwastherealreasonhehadbeensenttothecapital.Growingup,withhisfatheroftenbusyorawayonbusiness,hismotherdistantandRolasasatormentor,Marcusfoundsolacewithhisnannyandherhusband.Evenafterhehadgrownoldenoughtonolongerneedananny,SelaceandTenanhadalwayswelcomedMarcusintotheirhome.Tenanwasoneofhisfather’shuntsmenandtaughtMarcustrackingandhunting.SelacewastheretoencourageandconsoleMarcusasachild,givinghimtheaffectionthathismotherdidnotshow.Withnochildrenoftheirown,theyweresurrogateparentstoMarcusandhefeltclosertothemthanhisownfamily.

WhenMarcushadjustturnedsixteen,Tenanwaskilledwhileouthuntingintheforest.Itappearedthat,whilecleaningthedeerhehadkilled,hewasattackedbyabear.TheyfoundTenan’smangledbodynearthedeercarcass.Tracksledoffintotheundergrowth,wheretheyfoundthebear,dead,withTenan’sknifestillinit.WhenthisnewsreachedMarcus,hewasdevastatedandwentimmediatelytoseeSelace.ThoughMarcusattemptedtocomforther,shewasinconsolable.

ThenextdaybroughtanotherhammerblowtoMarcus’heart.Inthenight,Selacehadgonetothefallsthatfedtheriverneartheholdingand,inherdespair,hadthrownherselfoff.Someofthehousemaidshadfoundherbodyintherocksthatmorning.Shatteredbythenews,Marcushadgonetooneoftheoutbuildingsandbrokedown,weeping.Rolasfoundhimthereandbegantomockhim,callinghimababyandhurlingotherinsults.Marcuswasusedtohis

brother’staunting,usuallycontaininghisangerandwalkingaway,butwhenRolassaidthatTenanandSelacewereonlyservantsandnotworthyofanobleman’stears,somethinginsideMarcussnapped.

HechargedRolas,catchinghimoffguardanddrovehimoutintothecourtyard.Theyfelltotheground,punchingandkickingeachother.Theyregainedtheirfeet,stillswinging.Neitherwasholdingback,withMarcusconsumedbyrageandRolasbyhate.Theservantsandcraftsmenscatteredasthetwofoughtandrolledaroundthecourtyard,attemptingtokilleachotherwiththeirbarehands.

Whentheybattledclosetotheblacksmith,thingstookadeadlierturn.RolasgrabbedanearbyswordandMarcusfollowedsuit.Thetwoclosedwitheachother,swordsmoving.Theyhadonlybegunwhenseveralofthemen-at-armsbarreledinandwrestledthembothtotheground,strippingthemoftheirweapons.Theywerebothdraggedunceremoniouslytothecellssetasideforprisonerswaitingfortheirfather’sjudgment.

TheirfatherwastheangriestMarcushadeverseenhimwhenhecametothecellsintheearlyevening.Hewassomadthathealmostcouldnotspeak.Afterblisteringtheirearsaboutbreakingthepeaceandhowdisappointedandashamedhewastobetheirfatheratthatmoment,heleftthembothlockedupforthenight,barringanyfoodorwater.

Thenextdaytheywerereleased,withaman-at-armsassignedtoeachofthemtopreventarepeatofthedaybefore.Theirfatherhadmadethemapologizeandshakehands,promisingtobehavelikebrothersshould.Marcuscouldtellhewastroubled,knowingthatitwasonlywords,and,shortlyafterthefuneralforSelaceandTenan,hisfathertoldhimthathewasbeingsenttotrainwiththeRoyalGuard.Despitepartingwithhisfather,Marcuswaseagertogo.

“Well,Iknowofseveraltavernsinthecitywhereitwillbeunlikelythatyourbrotherwouldfindyou.”Nathensaidlightly.“Ifyoucanbringyourselftogotosuchplaces,Iamsurewecanfindsome,umm,distractionstotakeyourmindoffyourtroubles.”

“I’msureyouknowofallsuchplaces,Nathen.”Marcussaid,shakinghisheadwithasmileonhisface.“Thankyoufortheoffer,butwhileIcouldgiveafigaboutRolas,IdoubtKeriawouldbetoohappyifIwascaughtinsuchaplace.”

“Myapologies,Marcus;Iforgotyouarearomanticatheart.”Nathensaid.“I,forone,amnotbotheredbysuchconcerns.”

“Weknow,Nathen.”Daensaid,rollinghiseyes.“TheOnepreserveus,we

know.”Thethreesharedalaugh,Marcusfeelinghismoodlighten.“Youbothdisappointmeso.”Nathensaid,feigningdisillusionment.He

glancedup,atwinkleinhiseye.“Let’sgogetsomethingtoeatbeforeMarcusdecideshewanttopoundoutmoreofhisfrustrationsonme.”

Astheybegantowalktowardsthemessarea,avoicecalledacrossthetraininggrounds.“LordMarcus.”

Astheyturnedtowardsthevoice,MarcussawJustianwalkingtowardsthem.Hecameuptothem,bowingslightlytoMarcus.“Yourmotherhasrequestedthatyoureturnandhavethemorningmealwithyourfamily.”Justiansaid.

“Ofcourse,Captain.”Marcussaid,hisgoodmooddissipating,butkeepingthedisappointmentoutofhisvoice.Helookedathisfriends.“IwillcomebytoseeyouwhenIcangetfree.”

“Weunderstand,LordMarcus.”Nathensaidmockingly,withagrinandanexaggeratedbow.WithanodfromDaen,theycontinuedontothemessarea.

“Let’sgo,Justian.”Marcussaid,headingbacktowardsthepalaceandsteelinghimselfforanunpleasantmorning.

…Jakeawokefromadreamlesssleeptoseethesunlightstreaminginthrough

thewindows.Madalinmusthaveletmesleeplate.Jakethoughttohimself.Hecalleduphispower,feelingstrengthreturntohisbody.Hesatupandslowingstood,movingaroundhisroomandgettingdressed,butleavinghisarmorandswordbehind.

Hepushedthecurtainasideandsteppedoutontothepatio.Hestopped,enjoyingthesunshineonhisfaceandfeelingthecoolbreezemovearoundhisbody.Hecouldseesomedarkscatteredcloudsinthedistance,bringingthepromiseofrain.Afterafewmomentsofcontemplation,hewentinsidethemainhouse.

HesawMadalinandCherisesittinginthefrontroom,MadalinreadingandCherisesketching.Madalinlookedupwhenhecameintothekitchen,risingandcomingovertohim.

“Goodmorning,Jake.”Shesaid,reachinguptotouchhisface.“Howareyoufeeling?”

“Thesameasyesterday.”Jakereplied.“AslongasIholdmymagic,Icanatleastmovearound.”

“Come,Isetasideaplateforyou.”Shesaidasshewenttothecounterto

pullaplateoffoodfromunderacloth.ShesatatthetablewhileJakeate.“Isthereanythingyouwantatthemarket?”Madalinaskedsolicitously

whenJakehadfinished.“Ineedtogoandgathersomeitems.Cherisewillbegoingwithme.”

“I’mfine,Madalin.”Jakereplied.“Well,youshouldgobacktoyourroomandrest,then.”Madalinsaidasshe

stood,takingtheplateovertothewashsink.“YouneedtoconserveyourstrengthuntilBrotherJonasreturns.”

“IthinkIwillhangoutoutside.”Jakesaid.“ItisanicedayandIcouldusesomesun.”HesawthedisapprovinglookcrossMadalin’sface.“Ipromisetonotdoanythingcrazy.IfIstartgettingtired,Iwillgolaydown.”

“Fine.”Madalinsaid,voiceneutralthoughshedidnotlookpleased.“MaybeIshouldhaveCherisestaywithyou.”

“Thereisnoneedforthat.”Jakesaidhurriedly.“Iwillbefineand,besides,thereisnothingshecoulddoifsomethingdidhappen.”

“Allright,Jake.Iwilltrustyou.”Madalinreplied.Sheheadedtothefrontroom.“Let’sgo,Cherise.”Shesaidtoherdaughterassheheadedoutthefrontdoor.Cherisejumpedupand,withawavetoJake,followedherout.

Jakewentoutthesidedoor,slowlywalkingaroundthesideyardandenjoyingthesunshine.HeworkedhiswayovertotheothersideofthehouseandletMaxisoutofhisenclosure.Thedogwasenthusiastic,bouncingaroundJakeashecontinuedtowalkaround.

Maxis’energyseemedtobolsterJake’s.Hemovedfaster,testingthelimitsofhisstrength.Heplayedandwrestledwiththedog,thoughMaxiswouldoftenknockhimoff-balance.Afterawhile,though,Jakefelthisenergyfailing,hismusclesstartingtoshake,soheheadedforthebenches.

Hesatdown,gratefultobeoffhisfeet,thendecidedtoliedownashisstrengthcontinuedtowane.Maxisstayedwithhim,lyingdownnexttothebench.Withthewarmsunoverhead,Jakeclosedhiseyesandreleasedhispower.WithMaxiscloseby,hefeltthatnow-familiarsensationreturn.Hetriedtoignoreitand,afterafewminutes,henoddedoff.

HewokeupwhenMaxis’barkintrudedintothatpeacefulnothingness.MaxisbarkedagainandJakecouldhearthesoundofahorsestopping,hoovesclompingonthestonesofthestreet.Jakeembracedhismagic,sittingupandseeingayoungmaninthepalacefinery,hishorsebehindhim,standingontheothersideofthegate.TheyoungmanwaslookingwarilyatMaxis,whohadmovedtostandbetweenhimandJake,teethbaredandgrowling.

“It’sok,Maxis.”Jaketoldthedogashemadehiswaytothegate.Maxisstoppedgrowling,butstayedclosetoJake.

“JakeThomas?”Themansaid,stillwatchingMaxis.“Yes.”Jakereplied.“Ihavebeensentfromthepalacewiththismessageforyou.”Themansaid,

cautiouslyhandingJakeasealedparchment,thenjerkinghishandback.Lookingrelievedthathestillhadhishand,hestoodtherewaiting.Obviously,hewastoreturnwithamessagefromJake.

Jakecrackedthesealandopenedtheparchment.Hereadthemessage,seeingthatitwasaninvitationtothepalaceforadinnerandceremonytotakeplacetomorrownight.NorlanandhisfamilywereinvitedtoattendasJake’sguests.

“IneedtocheckwithNorlanandMadalinfirst.”Jakesaid.“Canyoucomebacklater?”

“Ihavemanyduties,soitisunlikely.”Themanreplied,movingbackandswingingupontohishorse.“Simplysendamessagetothepalace.IwillinformthemtoexpectareplyfromJakeThomas.Goodday.”Withthat,heturnedandrodeoff.

ItwaslateafternoonwhenMadalinandCherisereturned,carryingseveralpackages.Jaketriedtohelpthem,butMadalinpolitelywavedhimoff.Jakefollowedthemintothehouse,chattingwithCherise.AfterMadalinhadfinishedputtingawayhergoods,Jaketoldherabouttheinvitation.Shebrightenedatthethoughtofattendingapalacefunction,butsimplysaid.“IwillneedtospeakwithNorlanbeforewecommittogoing.”

Jakewentbackoutside,sittingonthebenchesandenjoyingtherestoftheday,Maxisstayingcloseby.Shortlybeforedark,Hailynappeared.Maxisrushedtothegate,happilygreetingHailynasshecameintotheyard.Hailynpettedthedog,whoobviouslyenjoyedtheattention.

“Howareyou,Jake?”HailynaskedasshewalkeduptoJake,stoppingseveralfeetaway.“Youseemtobefeelingbetter.”

“I’mthesameasbefore.”Jakereplied.“WhenIhavemypower,Ifeelstrongerandcanmoveabout,butwithoutit,Icanbarelyliftmyarms.”

“Youshouldn’texpectasuddenchange.”Hailynsaid,lookingcloselyatJake’sface.“Likely,anyimprovementwillbegradual.Ifyoulookonthebrightside,youdon’tseemtobegettingworse.”

“Iguess.”Jakesaid,shrugginghisshoulders.“CanItellyousomething?Idon’twantyoutoworryordoanything.”

“Ofcourse,Jake.”HailynrepliedasshetookaseatonthebenchacrossfromJake.“Youcantellmeanything.”

Relieved,Jaketoldherabouttheunusualsensationthathefeltfromotherswhenhewasnotholdinghismagic.“Itseemstobestrongerwithclericsforsomereason.Onlynow,withmypower,Idon’tsenseitfromyou.”Jakefinished.

“Releaseyourpowerandseewhathappens.”HailyntoldJake.Hereleasedhispower,swayingashisstrengthfailed,barelyabletostay

upright.Thesensationreturned,withJakefeelingitcomingfrombothMaxisandHailyn,butvastlystrongerfromher.Hecalleduphismagicandthesensationfaded.

HeandHailyndiscusseditforawhile,tryingtofigureoutwhatitwas.Intheend,theydecideditwasabyproductfromhisinjury.Hopefully,whenJonasfoundawaytohelpJake,thesensationwouldleaveaswell.Theysatinsilenceforabit,eachlostintheirownthoughts.

“HowarethingsattheTemple?”Jakefinallysaid,movingtheconversationtosomethingdifferent.

“Abitfrantic.”Hailynstated.“EveryoneisconcernedforMasterJonasandtheclericsthatwentwithhim.Someoftheclericsarediscussingwhattodoiftheydonotreturn.SisterSilvanisactingasChiefClericuntiltheycomeback.”

“I’msurethatJonasandDominicareok.”Jakesaidreassuringly,thoughhewasalsoworriedaboutthem.“Ibettheywillbebacksoon.”

“Wecanonlypraythatitwillbeso.”Hailynsaid,pausingwhenthefrontdooropenedandNorlancameout.Jakehadnotrealizedthathehadcomehome.

“Goodevening,Hailyn.”Norlansaidgood-naturedly.“Weareabouttositdownfortheeveningmeal.Wouldyouliketojoinus?”

“Thankyou,Norlan.”Hailynsaidasshestood.“Iwouldlovetostay,butIamalreadylate.IhavetoreturntotheTemple;IhavesomedutiesImustattendtotonight.”

“Anothertime,then.”Norlansaid.“Youarealwayswelcometojoinus.”“TheblessingoftheOneonyou,Norlan.”Hailynsaid,noddingherhead.

ShelookedatJake.“Andonyou,Jake.IwilltrytocomebytomorrowwhenIhavemoretime.”Sheturnedandleft,Maxisfollowinghertothegate.

“Let’sgoinside,Jake.”Norlansaid.Aftertheyfinisheddinner,theydiscussedattendingtheceremony.While

shewouldlikeanightatthepalace,MadalinwasconcernedwhetherJakecould

makeitthroughthenightinhiscondition.Jakeassuredherthathewouldrestmostoftheday,soheshouldbefine.NorlandidsaythatitwouldbehardtoturndowntheinvitationsincethereappearedtobeanexpectationthatJakewouldattend.Also,lookingoveratCheriseandseeingherexcitement,hesaiditwouldbeatreatforhertoattendapalacefunction.Intheend,theydecidedthattheywouldallgo.

Norlanstoodandsaid.“Iwillgotothepalacetoletthemknow.”Jakewenttobacktohisroom,grabbingatowelandstrippingoffhis

clothes.Hewentoutandtookaquickshower,thenreturnedandclimbedintohisbed.Oncehereleasedhispower,awaveofexhaustionspreadoverhimandhewasquicklyasleep.

…Fartothewest,attheedgeoftheInlandSea,thefigureindarkrobesfrom

Creatos’caverodeuptothecovewherehisMaster’sservantswerewaitingforhim,hishorselatheredandtremblingunderhim.Thenightmadethingshardtosee,buthecouldhearthesoundofthesurfasthewavescrashedagainsttherocksthatsurroundedthecove.

Asmuchashehatedridinghorses,hehadriddenthisonestraightfromCreatos’stronghold,pushingthehorse.Hewasforcedtoslowandrestitattimes,sincekillingthehorsewouldmeanfindinganotherandhewasavoidingtownsandvillages.Hewasnotafraidofencounteringanyoneoreventwoclerics,butifagroupconfrontedhim,hemaybetestedbeyondwhathecouldhandle.Topreventsuchasituation,herodearoundthosesettlementsinhispath.

Hecouldmakeoutthewaterahead,withthelongshadowoftheboatwaitingforhim,pulleduponthesand.Hesawseveralshadowyfiguresmovingaroundtheboat,thesailorsstandingreadytoshoveoffatamoment’snotice.

Herodeuptotheboat,ignoringthesuddenbaringofsteelwhenthesailorssawhim.Oncetheyrecognizedwhohewas,theysheathedtheirweaponsandpreparedtosail.Hehadmixedfeelingswhenhegratefullygotoffhishorse,thecreatureaboutreadytocollapse.Asmuchashedislikedriding,heabsolutelyloathedseatravel.Hecouldnotcontrolhisstomachonthevoyagehere,spendingmuchofhistimebeingsick.Someofthesailorshadthoughtthatwasamusinguntilhemadeanexampleofoneofthem.Afterthat,hethoughtwithself-satisfaction,theyhadbeennothingbutcourteous.

Ashemadehiswaytothewoodenlongboatwithsailorsalreadymanningtheoars,heheardthesoundofapproachinghorses.Hespuntoseeagroupof

foursoldiersappearalongtheridgethathidthecovefromview,carryingtorches.Accompanyingthemwasacleric,glowinginpower.

“Youinthecove,haltinthenameoftheking!”Oneofthesoldierscalledoutastheystarteddownintothecove.

Thefigurewaiteduntiltheygotclose,thenunleashedablastofdarkfire,theblackflamessweepingoverandenvelopingthesoldiers.Hesmiledatthesoundsofthemenandhorsesscreaming.Thesefoolsdidn’tknowwhomtheyweremessingwith.Hethoughtgrimlyasheturnedtogo.

Hewassurprisedwhentheclericrosefromtheburningpiles,herrobesandfleshscorched,butstillglowinginpower.Shereleasedaboltofclerics’fireathim.Hedeflectedtheblow,sendingitintothesky.Hereturnedherfirewithhisown.Shewasabletoblockmostofit,thoughshecriedoutassomeofitreachedher.Shewasabletolaunchanotherineffectiveattackbeforehewasabletooverwhelmherdefensesandreducehertoasmolderingheap,hercriesdyinginthenight.

Heturnedandclimbedaboardtheboat,thecrewmovingquicklytolaunchandheadtosea.Hewrappedhisrobestighterasthesprayofthewavescarriedoverthebow.Hethoughtaboutthatstupidclericwithanamusedsmile.WhilehestillfearedhisMaster,theonethingherelishedsincecomingherewasthatnoonecouldeverpickonBruceTaliaagain.

CHAPTERSIXThelightofthetorchesilluminatingthepalacecourtyardmadetheshadows

seemtodanceagainstpalacewallsasJakesteppedoutofthecarriage.Hisownshiningformdrewstaresfrommanyofthepeopleenteringthepalace,makinghimfeelsomewhatself-conscious.Tryingtoignorethelooks,headjustedhisswordbeltandranhishandsdownhisdoublet,smoothingthematerial,thenturnedtoofferhishandtoCherisetoassistherassheexited.Cherisehadalightbluedresson,theskirthangingtoherankles,soitwasawkwardforhertonavigatethecarriagesteps.Onceshewasout,hedidthesameforMadalin.

“Thankyou,Jake.”Madalinsaidasshesteppeddown,dressedinaredsatingown,herhairupinanelaboratestyle.Shehadbeenfussingwithherhairallafternoon,muchtoNorlan’samusement.

Norlanexitedlast,dressedinhisbestbrowndoubletandpants,withhisknee-highbootspolishedtoahighshine.Helookedslightlyuncomfortableinsuchfinery.

Thepalacehadsentthecarriagetobringthemtotheevent,honoringJake’spositionasaHeroofSanduas.Jakehadwelcomedit,ashehadbeenunsureonhowhewouldmakeittothepalace,givenhiscondition.HehadenvisionedpushingbeyondhisstrengthandshowingupbeingcarriedNorlan’sback.

“Let’sheadinside.”Norlansaid,gesturingtowardstheentranceandofferinghisarmtohiswife.Madalinsmiledatherhusband,apleasedtwinkleinhereyes,asshelaidherhandonhisarm.JakeofferedhisarmtoCheriseandtheyfollowedherparentsintothepalace.

Despitehisattempttodisregardthespeculativelooksandwhispers,Jakeknewthatheandhismagicwerethetopicofmuchdiscussionastheymadetheirwaytothethroneroom.Uncomfortablewiththeattention,hetriedtofocusonkeepingasteadyandstablepace,thoughhebegansweatingslightlyinsidehisdoublet.

Whentheyreachedthethroneroom,apalaceofficialstoppedthem.Hecheckedfortheirnamesonalistand,afterfindingthem,hadtheheraldannouncetheirnamestothecrowd.Anotherpalaceservantcameoverandledthemtoatablenearthethrones.OtherguestswerealreadyatthetableandNorlanandMadalinengagedtheminpoliteconversation.

Jakelookedaroundthehall,seeingthatthetableshadbeensetuponeither

sideofthecarpetthatleadtothethronedais.Asmallertablewassentnexttothedais,whichJakeassumedwasfortheking.HefoundMarcusontheothersideofthehall,dressedinafinedarkgreendoublet,handrestingonhissword,lookingsomewhatpensiveashewaitednexttohisfather,whowasspeakingwithseveralothernobles.MarcusnoticedJakeandnoddedingreeting,whichJakeretuned.JakesawthatMarcus’motherwasspeakingwithtwootherwomenwhilehisbrotherwasstandingapart,atankardinhishand.Rolaswasdressedinalightgreendoublet,withagoldbadgeofhisfamilycrestpinnedon.Jakeobservedthathewasalsoarmedwithasword.

Theking’sheraldcamethroughthedoorsnearthethrones,rappinghisstaffontheground.“KingKirstentheFirst,SovereignKingofSanduasandhisdaughter,HerRoyalHighness,PrincessKeriacomes!”Hecalledoutassilencedescendedinthehall.“Theycome!”

AflurryofbowsandcurtsiesrippledthroughthehallasthekingandKeriawalkedin,herhandonherfather’sarm.Theymadetheirwaytothedais,smilingandacknowledgingpeopleinthecrowdwithnods.Keriastoppedatthedaisstepswhileherfatherascendedtohisthrone.Heturnedtoaddressthegatheredassembly.

“Wecometonighttocelebratethesafereturnofmydaughter.”Thekingsaid,voicecarryingthroughthehall.“Beforewebeginthecelebrations,Iaskthatweobserveamomentofsilencetohonorthosethatfelldefendingherandthosethatfelltorescueher.”Thecrowdwentquiet,withonlythefaintcrackleofthetorchfiresaudibleinthehall.

Afteraboutaminuteofsilence,thekingspokeagain.“Marcus,sonofMarcelas,approachthethrone.”JakeheardthequietmurmuringfromthecrowdasMarcus,wholookedsurprised,walkedtothedais,then,attheking’sgesture,knelt.Asthekingcamedownthestairs,aRoyalGuardapproachedwithabejeweledswordinhishands.

Thekingtooktheswordandhelditaloft.“Marcus,sonofMarcelas.”Thekingformallyintoned.“Tohonoryourbraveryandcommitmenttothesafetyoftheprincess,Inowdeclarethatyouaretobeknightedinthepresenceofthesewitnesses.”

“DoyousweartotheOnetoobeythewillofyoursovereign,toalwaysspeakthetruth,tocarryarmstodefendthisrealm,toprotecttheweakandinfirm,andtogiveyourlife,ifneeded,intheserviceofthesecauses?”Thekingasked,lookingatMarcus.

“Isoswear,myking.”Marcusrepliedformally,bowinghishead.

“Then,bymypowerandauthority,Iknightyou.”ThekingsaidashelaidtheflatofhisswordbladeonMarcus’head.Hepulleditaway,handedtheswordbacktotheGuardandlaidahandonMarcus’shoulder.“Arise,SirMarcus.”

Marcusstood,shakinghandswiththeking,asthecrowderuptedincheers.KeriacameoverfromwhereshewasstandingandlightlykissedMarcusonthecheek.JakesawMarcus’fatherbeamingwithpride,shakinghandswiththeothernoblesnearhim.Hismotherwaspolitelyclapping,butherfacebetrayednootheremotion.Ontheotherhand,emotionswereevidentonRolas’faceashescowledand,tiltinghisheadback,drainedhistankardandsignaledforanother.

“Letusfeast.”ThekingannouncedasheandKeriawenttothesmalltablenexttothedais.Marcuswentbackovertohisfamilyasthecrowdbegantositdownattheirassignedtables.Hisfatherembracedhimandledhimtoaseatnexttohisatthetable.

ThetablenearJakewaslong,withwoodenbencheswithroomfortenoneachside,lookinglikeanoversizedpicnictable.Jakesatdownattheendofthebench,nexttoNorlan,whileMadalinandCherisetooktheseatsacrossfromthem.Jakewatchedasservantscamethroughthedoors,bearinglargetraysoffood.Theservantswerequickandthetablebeforethemwassooncoveredwithvariousmeats,vegetables,pastriesandfruit.Otherservantscamebytoofferdrinks,carryingpitchersofale,wine,fruitpunchandwater.Whilehewastemptedtohavesomeale,Jakewassurethat,inhiscurrentcondition,hewouldhearaboutitfromMadalin,sohestuckwithwater.NorlanandMadalinchosethewinewhileCherisehadthepunch.

Dinnerprogressedquickly,withthepeoplenexttoNorlanandMadalinmakingsmalltalkwiththemwhiletheyate.Jakecontinuedtoeatuntilhewasstuffed,pausingonlytochatwithCherise.Thehallbuzzedwithconversationswhiletheservantswereseeminglyeverywhere,replacingfoodtrays,refillingcupsandclearingdinnerware.

Oncedinnerwascompleted,theservantsclearedthetablesofthetrays,butcontinuedtoprovidethedrinks.Jake,sittingcontentlyashelethisfoodsettle,wassurprisedtoseeKeriacomeovertothetable.Everyoneatthetablebegantorise,butKeriagesturedforthemtoremainseated.

“Goodevening,Jake.”Keriasaidwithabrightsmile.Aservantcameoverwithachair,placingitattheendofthetablesoshecouldsit.“Iamsogladtoseethatyoucouldmakeit.”SheplacedherhandonJake’s.

“Thankyou,Keria.”Jakesaidwithasmile,enjoyingthewarmthofherhand.

“Goodeveningaswell,MasterNorlan,MistressMadalin,andCherise.”Keriasaidwithanodofherhead.“Itrustthatyouareenjoyingyourselves.”

“Ihaveneverriddeninacarriagebeforeorseensomanybeautifuldresses.”Cherisesaidbrightly,hereyesbrimmingwithjoy.“Thisiswonderful,Keria.”

“Cherise!”Norlansaidsharply,glancingattheothersatthetableandsoundingslightlyscandalized.“YoumustaddresstheprincessasYourHighnessorPrincess.”HelookedatKeria.“Iapologizeforherpoormanners,YourHighness.Nodisrespectwasmeant.”

“Noapologiesareneeded,MasterNorlan.”Keriasaidlightly,smilingatCheriseandtouchinghercheek,nowbrightredfromembarrassment.“ItoldCherisethatshemayusemyname.”

JakesatbackandwatchedasKeriaengagedCheriseandMadalininconversation.Cherisesoonforgotaboutherfather’srebuke,talkingandlaughingwithKeria.Aftersomelastwords,KeriaturnedbacktoJake.

“Howareyoufeeling,Jake?”Sheaskedquietly,hisblueaurareflectinginhereyes.“Youseemtobeabletomovearoundfairlywell.”

“I’mok.”Jakereplied.“Istillgettiredprettyquickly,butotherthanthat,Iamdoingfine.”

“Youmustn’ttaxyourself,Jake.”Keriasaidseriously.“Idonotwanttoseeyouharmyourselffurther.GettingplentyofrestseemsbestcourseuntilBrotherJonasreturns.”

“I’mnothurtingforsleeporrest,Icanassureyou.”Jakesaid,tryingtokeeptheirritationoutofhisvoice.HedidnotwanttoupsetKeria,buthewasgettingalittletiredofbeingsurroundedbywomenwhowanttomotherhim.Hedidnotneedanymoreremindersofhiscondition.

“Thatisgood.”Keriastated.Sheglancedbackoveratherfather,whomotionedforhertoreturn.Shestood,smilingatJake.“Iwilltrytocomebackinalittlewhile.”Withanodtotherestofthetable,sheleft,walkingbacktohertable.

Jakestaredafterher,admiringherform,thensighedwistfully.WhatamIgoingtodoabouther?HowdoImakethingsrightwithhim?HethoughtasheglancedacrosstheroomatMarcus.Shakinghishead,hesawasympatheticlookinMadalin’seyeswhenhegazedinherdirection.Hegaveheraslightsmileandashrugofhisshoulders.Heshiftedonthebench,tryingtogetcomfortable,thensattherelostinthought,staringatthetorchesonthefarwall,

untilthekingstoodandspokeagain.“Letthemusicanddancingbegin.”Thekingsaid,signalingatthemusicians

inthecornerofthehall.Servantscameandmovedsometablestoopenupalargespaceinthemiddleofthehall.Oncetheareawascleared,themusiciansbegantoplay.

JakewatchedasthekingandKeriawentoutanddanced,anintricateandformaltypeofdance.AsthedanceendedandKeriakissedherfatheronthecheek,thehalleruptedinapplause.Smiling,thekinggesturedforothersofjointhem.Couplesbegantomovetothedanceareaasthemusicianbegananothermelody.JakesawMarcusapproachKeria,clearlyaskingforadance.ShesmiledandnoddedandMarcusledherouttothedancearea.

Jakewatcheditwithsomemixedfeelings.WhilehewouldlovetodancewithKeria,hedidnotknowthestepsandhisstrengthmightnotlastlongenough.So,heconsignedhimselftosimplywatch,hisgazeonKeriaasshedancedandlaughedwithMarcus.

HisattentionwassuddenlydrawnawaywhenhesawRolasapproachinghistable,atankardinhishand.Jakecouldtellthathehadbeendrinkingheavily,hisstepslightlyunsteady.

“WhytheyletyouinIwillneverknow.”Rolassaidharshlyashestoppednexttothetable.Jakecouldseeangeronhisface.“Itisbadenoughthattheyarefawningovermydearbrother.”Hespat.HelookedJakeupanddown,acruelsmileonhislips,andsneered.“Youarenobetterthanajumped-uppeasant.”

“Thereisnoneedforthis,mylord.”Norlanbegan,risingslightly.“Jakeishereattheinvitationoftheking.Perhapsyoushouldreturnto-“

“WasIspeakingtoyou,smith?”Rolassnarled,staringatNorlan.“Youandyourfamilyarenotmuchbetter.”

JakefeltangercoursethroughhimashesawNorlanbitebackareplyandsitdown,fistsclenched,theothersatthetablelookinguncomfortable,withMadalinconcernedandCheriselookingscaredandhurt.Beforeheknewwhathewasdoing,Jakesurgedtohisfeet.

“Backaway,asshole.”Jakesaidthroughgrittedteeth.“Areyougoingtomakeme?”Rolassaidominouslyashesethistankardon

thetableandhisotherhanddriftedtowardshissword.“Perhapsyouthinkyouaremyequal.”

Jakestaredback,deliberatelycrossinghisarmsacrosshischest,angerkeepinghimfrombackingdown,butatrickleoffearwormeditswayintohis

thoughts.HewasinnoconditiontofightandRolashadyearsofexperienceonhim.

“Rolas!”JakeheardMarcus’voicecutthroughthemusic,lowbutdirect.Jakesawhimcomingoverfromthedancearea.“Whatdoyouthinkyouaredoing?”Marcusasked,facetight,asheconfrontedhisbrother.

“Noneofyourconcern,SirMarcus.”Rolassnapped,contemptuous.HesteppedbackandturnedtofaceMarcus.“Doesyourlittlefriendneedyoutoprotecthim?”Hebarkedashort,sharplaugh.“Youalwayshavehadasoftspotforthosebeneathus.”

Marcus’facewentflat,butbeforehecouldreply,LadyAreliaunexpectedlyappeared,withCaptainJustianatherside.“Rolas,youwillremoveyourselftoourquarters.Youhavehadtoomuchaleforyourowngood.”Shesaid,voicecool.

“Iamagrownman,Mother.”Rolassaid,alookofdefianceonhisface.“IwillgowhenIplease.”

“YouwillleavenoworIwillhaveCaptainJustiandragyoufromthishalllikeacommoncriminal.”Shereplied,hervoicenowice,eyeshard.

JakewatchedasRolasglaredathismother,jawmusclesclenchingandunclenching,weighingdefiance.LadyAreliasimplyretunedthatstare,eyeslikedarkstones.

“Asyouwish,Mother.”Rolasfinallysaid.HepushedpastMarcus,wholethimgo.AtLadyArelia’swhisperedinstruction,JustianfollowedRolasoutofthehall.

“Introduceme,myson.”AreliasaidtoMarcus,indicatingNorlanandhisfamily.

“Mother,thisisMastersmithNorlan,hiswifeMistressMadalinandtheirdaughter,Cherise.”Marcustoldhismother.

“MasterNorlan,pleaseacceptmyapologiesfortheboorishbehaviorofmyson.”Areliasaid,voicecalmandlevel.“Iwillseethatheissuitablypunished.”

“Thankyou,mylady.”Norlanreplied,voicesteady,butJakecouldstillseesomeangerinhiseyes.

“Donotworry,lovelychild.”AreliasaidtoCherise.ShekneltdownnexttoCheriseandcuppedherchininherhand.“Youwillfindthatmenoftenactfoolishly.Youmustnotallowthattoruinyourenjoymentofalovelyparty.”ShelookedupatMarcus.“Surelyyoucanassistherinthis,myson.”

“Yes,Mother.”Marcusreplied.“Again,myapologies.”Areliasaidasshestood.ShelookedoveratJake.

“Toyouaswell,JakeThomas.”JakewasdecidedlyuncomfortablewiththewayLadyAreliawaslookingat

him,hereyesstudyinghim.Hefeltlikehewaspuzzlethatshecouldnotfigureout.Hebowedhishead,breakingthestare.“Nothingtoforgive,mylady.”Jakesaidproperly.

AreliastaredatJakeforanothermoment,thenturnedandleftthehall,goingtothedoorthroughwhichRolashaddeparted.

“MayIhavethisdance,Cherise?”Marcusaskedformally,bowingslightlyandtakingherhand.Cherise,alargesmileonherface,noddedhappily,dramaforgotten.Marcusescortedhertothedancearea.

Jakesatbackdown,drinkingsomewaterandwatchingMarcusandCherisedance,Cherise’sfacealightwithjoy.Whenthemusicpaused,Marcusmotionedforablond-hairedyoungmaninRoyalGuardfinerytocomeover,introducedhimtoCherise,andleftthemtodance.HecamebackovertoJake’stable.

“Withyourpermission,MasterNorlan,mayIhavethisdancewithyourwife?”Marcussaid,holdingouthishandtoMadalin.Withapleasedsmile,MadalintookhishandandtheyweresoondancingnearCherise.

NorlanleanedovertoJake.“WhileIappreciatewhatyoudid,Jake,youmustbecarefulwiththesenobles.”Hesaidquietly.“Don’tletyoursenseofhonorgetyouintoasituationthatwillonlyendbadly.”Hepattedhimontheshoulderandreturnedtowatchinghiswifeanddaughterdance.

AfterMadalinfinishedherdance,shecamebackovertothetablewhileCherisecontinuedtodance,againwithMarcus.Withasmile,MadalingesturedatNorlan.“Come,husband.”Shesaidlightly.“Youwillnotgetawaywithjustsittingthere.Wehavetodance.”SheglancedatJake.“Willyoubealrightbyyourself,Jake?”

“Iwillbefine.”Jakereplied,nudgingNorlantostandup.“Havefun.”WhileJakewassittingandwatchingthedances,losinghimselfinthemusic,

aservantcameuptohimandspoke.“Thekingrequestsyourpresenceathistable.”

Frowningslightlyashewonderedwhatthiswasabout,Jakenoddedandstoodup.Hemadehiswayovertotheking’stable.Keria’schairwasempty,asshewasoutdancing.

“Youwantedtoseeme,YourMajesty?”Jakeaskedpolitely.“Yes,Jake.”Thekingreplied.HegesturedatKeria’schair.“Pleasesit.”OnceJakewassitting,thekingleanedoverandspokequietly.“Istherenot

anyrewardthatIcangiveyouforyourroleinfreeingKeria?”

JakethoughtaboutaskingtoseeKeria,hisgazedriftingovertowardsher,whereshewasdancingwithMarcus,smilingandlaughing.Beforehecouldspeak,thekingfollowedhisgazeandshookhishead.

“Myprohibitionstillstands,Jake.”Thekingsaidfirmly,thoughhiseyesweresympathetic.“Keriahasaresponsibilitytothekingdom.Shewillbeaqueensomedayandshehastomarrysomeonewhocanstandbesideher,challengeherprivatelywhenneeded,andleadthisnation.”Hepaused,thenasked.“Doyouwishtobeaking,Jake?”

“King?Me?!”Jakeexclaimed.Theideaseemedsooutlandishthathealmostlaughed.

“Ifyoudonotwishtobeaking,thenwhypursueKeria?”Thekingpressed,faceserious.“Besidesthefactthatyouareastrangerandthenobleswouldnotacceptyou,ifawaywasfoundtoreturnyoutoyourworld,wouldyouforswearyourhomeandfamilytoremainhere?”

Jakewascaughtoff-guardbythequestion.Hewasembarrassedthathehadnotthoughtaboutitthatway.Hethoughtofhisfamilyandfriendsandofallthefamiliarthingsofhome.Hefinallyshookhishead,sayingquietly.“No.Iwouldgohome.”

“Jake,IrecognizethatKeriaisabeautifulyoungwoman.”Thekingsaidkindly.“WhenIwasayoungmanaroundyourage,Ipursuedabeautifulwoman,onlytohaveherbecomeunattainable.However,inspiteofwhatIthoughtwasadevastatingblow,ImetandfellinlovewithKeria’smother.Iconsidermyselftobealuckymanforit.”Hepaused.“DoyouunderstandwhatIamtryingtosayhere?”

“Ithinkso,YourMajesty.”Jakesaid,unabletokeepthedisappointmentoutofhisvoice.HegazedlonginglyatKeria,savoringherbeauty,but,withasinkingfeelinginhischest,knewthekingwasright.ItwouldnotbefairtoKeriaforthistocontinue,especiallyifhecouldfindawayhome.MaybeIcanatleastdosomethingright.Hethoughtasanideacametohim.

“Astomyreward,IwouldaskthatyouconsiderMarcusforKeria.”Jakesaidhaltingly,feelingthiswasthetoughestthinghehadeverdone.“Heisinlovewithher.”

ThekinglookedoveratMarcus,aslightfrownonhisface.“Icannotpromiseyouthat,Jake.”Hesaid,sighingheavily.“HemaybegoodforherandIacknowledgehisfeelingsforher,butImustalsoconsiderthewishesoftheroyalcouncil,whichisoftendrivenbypoliticsandposition.”

Thekingheldouthishand.“Iknowthatthisisnotwhatyouhadhopedfor,

Jake.Ihopethatawaycanbefoundtosendyoubacktoyourrightfulworld.Whenyoureturnthere,Ihopeyouwillthinkkindlyofme.”

“Ofcourse,YourMajesty.”Jakesaidrespectfully,shakingtheking’shand.“Tobehonest,IhavebeentreatedbetterherethanIhadanyrighttoexpect.”

“Iwillletyougetbacktothecelebrations.”Thekingsaid.“Enjoythenight.”

Jakenoddedandwentbackovertohistable.HecouldnotbringhimselftolookoveratKeriaashepassedthedancearea.Norlanwassittingatthetable,sippingsomewine.HenoticedthelookonJake’sface.

“Whathappened?”Heasked,concerninhisvoice.“Youlooklikeyougotsomereallybadnews.”

“I’mfine,Norlan.”Jakesaid.“I’mjusttired.IthinkIwillhavethecarriagetakemebacktothehouse.”

“LetmegetMadalinandCheriseandwecanleave.”Norlansaid,standing.JakesawCherisedancingwithaboyaboutherage,smilingandclearly

enjoyingherself.Madalinwasdancingwiththeblond-hairedyoungman,laughingatsomethinghesaid.“No,Norlan.”Jakesaid.“Letthemenjoytheparty.Icanmakeithomebymyself.”

“Areyousure?”Norlanasked.“Yeah.”Jakesaid.“Don’tworry.I’llbefine.”Jakeslowlymadehiswaytotheexit,hisminddistantasheconsideredwhat

hadjusthappened.ThegroomsquicklyhadthecarriagebroughtaroundandJakegratefullyclimbedin.Hestaredoutofthewindow,watchingthecitypassby,thesoundsofthecarriageechoingoffthenearbybuildingsasitwoveitswaybacktoNorlan’s.

Jakethankedthedriverafterhehadsteppeddownfromthecarriage,themaingatetothehouseonlyafewfeetaway.Jakemadehiswayintotheyardasthecarriagelefttoreturntothepalace.HewentovertoMaxis’enclosureandletthedogout.MaxisseemedtosenseJake’smood,stayingcalmandremainingclosetohim.Jakewenttohisroom,MaxiscurlingupatthefootofthebedwhileJakeremovedandhunghisswordbeltonthewall.Jakequicklyundressedandclimbedintobed.HethoughtaboutKeriaandwhatthekinghadsaid.Hereleasedhismagic,hopingthathewouldquicklydriftofftosleep.

Instead,hisemotionsandthoughtscontinuedtoroil.Hetriedtocalmhismind,butsleepwasalongtimeincoming.

CHAPTERSEVEN

Jakeawokeatthelightknockonthedoor.HecalleduphismagicandshiftedintoaseatedpositionjustasNorlanenteredhisroom.Norlanlookedlikehewassomewhatunwell,withaslightpallortohisfaceandsomebagsunderhiseyes.

“Goodmorning,Jake.”Norlansaidpleasantly,despitehiscondition.“AreyouabletojoinusforthemorningmealorshouldIhaveMadalinbringyousomefood?”

“Iwillcomeinside,Norlan.”Jakereplied.HegesturedtowardsNorlan.“Areyoufeelingwell?Youlookabitundertheweather.”

“I’mfine,butIdon’tthinkIshouldhavehadsomuchwine.”Norlansaidwithalightsmileandaruefulshakeofhishead.“Istillenjoydrinkingagoodwine,buteveryyearthatIgrowolder,ifIdrinktoomuch,thenextmorninggetsabitmoreunpleasant.”

“Iunderstand.”Jakesaid,rememberinghishangoverfromthepartyatMatt’shouse.Heswunghisfeetoutandstood.“I’llbeinassoonasIgetdressed.”

Norlannoddedandleft.Jakeputonhisclothesandsteppedoutontothepatio.Hesawthattheskywascloudyandacoolwindwasblowing.Thecloudswerenotverydark,soJakehopedthatthatmeantnorain.Heheadedintothehouseandfoundthefamilyalreadyatthetable.

Duringthemeal,JakelistenedwithanamusedsmileasCheriseexcitedlyrecountedallofthedancingatthecelebration.Shespokealmostnon-stop,pausingonlytotakeabitetoeatatthepromptingofherfather.MadalinlistenedwithacontentedlookonherfacewhileNorlanshookhisheadatCherise’sgushingaccountofalloftheattentionthatMarcushadshownher.LookslikeMarcushasanotheradmirer.Jakethought.Butafterwhatshewentthrough,I’mgladshewasabletohavesuchagoodtime.

Afterbreakfast,Jakereturnedtohisroom,settledbackontothebedandreleasedhispower.Helaythere,lostinthought.ThegoodmoodthatcamefromseeingCherisehappyfadedasheconsideredwhathappenedlastnight.Hereplayedhisconversationwiththekinginhismindseveraltimes,tryingtodetermineifheshouldorcouldhavesaidanythingdifferent.

ThinkingaboutKeriamadehimdepressed.Visualizingherinhisheadwasalmostpainfulasshewassobeautiful.Herememberedthefeelofherbodynext

tohisastheyhadkissed,thefragranceofherperfumeandthesmileshegavehimlikeitwasforhimalone.Hewasgivingherupand,tomakethesituationworse,hefeltthatoutofrespectforwhatMarcushaddone,hehadtopromotetheideaofMarcusandKeriatotheking.

But,despitethesenseofloss,heknewinhisheartthatitwastherightthingtodo.Hewasnotlookingtobeakingand,ifthewayhomeappeared,hewouldtakeitwithouthesitation.ItwasnotfairtoKeria,orMarcusforthatmatter,forhimtocontinuetochaseafterher.Hehadtohardenhisheartagainstsuchattachmentsandstayfocusedonfindinghowtogetbacktohisownworld.Iwillbetough.Hethoughtresolutely,thoughitdidnotmakehimfeelanybetter.

Focusedonhisthoughts,hewasstartledbyasoftknockonhisdoor.Asheembracedhispowerandsatup,heheardHailyn’svoice.

“MayIcomein?”Sheasked.“Sure,Hailyn.”Jakereplied.Hewatchedassheenteredhisroom,dressed

inherwhiteapprenticerobes.Sheseemedtobeingoodspirits,givinghimasmileandcameoverandsatatthefootofhisbed.Hepulledhiskneesbacktowardshischesttomakesurethatshedidnotaccidentlytouchhim.

“Howarefeeling,Jake?”Sheinquired.“Fine.”Jakesaidcasually.“Notmuchhaschanged.”“Thatisbetterthanthingsgettingworse.”Hailynsaidlightly.“Didyou

enjoythecelebrationatthepalace?”“Itwasok.”Jakesaid.Hewasstruckbyasuddenthought.“Howcomeyou

werenotinvited?YouhadasbigaroleinKeria’srescueasmeorMarcus.”“Iwasinvited,butmydutiesattheTemplekeptmefromattending.”She

said,shakingherhead.“IthinkIwouldhaveenjoyedseeingifyoucouldlearnthedancestepsinanight.”Shefinishedwithagentlelaugh.

“Istayedawayfromthedancing.”Jakesaidhurriedly.“Iwasnotabouttotripoversomeone’sfeettryingtokeepup.”

“Youshoulddance,Jake.”Hailynrepliedwithanamusedlookinhereyes.“Itisgoodforthespiritandthebody.Besides,womenlikeamanwhocandance.”

“Maybe,onceIamhealed,Iwillhaveyouteachme.”Jakesaidwithachuckle.“IthinkIneedanyhelpIcangetinthewomendepartment.”

“Whydoyousaythat?”Hailynasked,tiltingherheadandgivinghimacuriouslook.

JaketoldHailyneverythingthathappenedthepreviousnight,includingtheconversationwiththeking.Sheseemedsympatheticforthemostpart,offering

himwordsofsupportashetriedtoexplainhisfeelingsaboutitall.However,whenhetoldherabouthisdesiretobetoughandfocusongettinghome,shewaslessthanaccommodating.

“Iunderstandyourdesiretoreturnhome,butyoucannotsimplyignoreyourfeelingsorthoseofthepeopletryingtohelpyou.”Shesaiddirectly,adispleasedlookonherface.“Todosomeansthatyouaresimplyusingpeopletogetwhatyouwant.Thatiswhatthedemonsdo.”

“Waitaminute,I’mnofreakingdemon.”Jakesaidwithsomeheat.“JustbecauseIdon’twanttogettooattacheddoesn’tmeanIdon’tcare.”

“Iknowthat.”Hailynsaid,holdingupherhands.“Iwasjusttryingtopointoutthatyouareaperson,likeweallare,andyoucan’tgiveuponhappiness,caring,compassionandtheotheremotionsthattheOnehasgivenustoenjoythislife.”

Shereachedforhim,thenpulledherhandbackwithafrustratedgrimaceonherface.“Youcanstillenjoyfriendship,fellowshipandloveuntilyoureturntoyourhome.”Shepausedforamoment,thencontinued.“Surely,youknowthatNorlanandMadalinloveyou.Wouldyoudisregardthat?”

“No.”Jakesighed,thentakingadeepbreathandreleasingit,notwantingtofightwithher.“IappreciatewhatallofyouhavedoneformeandIunderstandwhatyouaresaying,Hailyn.Itjustpissesmeoffthatitcanbesounfair.”

“Thingswillworkoutthewaytheymust.”Sherepliedserenely.“TrustintheOne,Jake,anddon’tletthedisappointmentsstandinthewayofhappiness.”

“I’lltry.”Jakesaidashestaredintothoseunusualbrowneyes.Hegaveherasmile,whichshereturned.“Youareagreatfriendtohave,Hailyn.Iamsogladthat-“Hewasinterruptedbyanotherknockonhisdoorframe.

“Comein!”Hecalledout,expectingtoseeNorlanorMadalin.HewassurprisedwhenMarcusenteredhisroom.Hewasdressedinafine,

butplain,whiteshirtandblackpantswithhisswordbeltedon.LikeNorlan,heappearedtobesufferingfromahangover.MarcuspausedwhenhesawJakeandHailynsittingonthebed.

“IamsorryifIaminterrupting.”Marcussaidsmoothly.“Icancomebacklater.”

“No,pleasestay,Marcus.”Hailynsaidasshestood.“IneedtogetbacktotheTemple.”ShelookeddownatJake.“ThinkonwhatIsaid,Jake.Iwilltrytoseeyoutomorrow.”WithanodtoMarcusasshepassed,shepushedthecurtainasideandlefttheroom.

“Whatbringsyouby?”Jakeasked.“Youlooklikeyoucouldusesome

sleep.”Marcusshookhisheadslightly,rubbinghistemples.“Myfriendsdragged

metothetavernsafterthecelebrationended.”Hesaidwithaweakgrin.“Idon’tdrinkmuchandthereseemedtobeanendlesssupplyofale.Ifeellikesomeoneispoundingonmyheadwithahammerfromtheinside.”

JakechuckledatthedescriptionwhileMarcuswenttoretrievethestoolandmoveitnearthefootofthebed.Hesatdown,sighingcontently,thenturnedhisattentionbacktoJake.

“Icamebyfortworeasons.”Marcussaidquietly.“Thefirstistoapologizeformybrother’sbehaviorlastnight.YouleftbeforeIcouldspeakwithyou.”

“Whatishisproblem?”Jakeasked.Hepaused,thencontinuedwhenMarcusdidnotrespond.“Iknowthatyoutwoarebrothers,but,really,he’satotaldick.”

Marcussattherequietlyforamoment,thenspoke.“RolashasalwaysfeltthatIwasathreattohisposition.Hehasclaimed,foraslongasIcanremember,thatourfatherfavorsme,theyoungerbrother,overhim,therightfulheir.HebelievesthatIamtryingtounderminehimandcheathimoutofhisinheritance.”

“Youwouldthinkthathewouldgetbeyondit.”Jakesaid.“You’vebeenawayfromhomeforawhile,right?”

“Yes,buthedoesnotseeitlikethat.”Marcusreplied.“HeisnowafraidthatIhaveinfluencewiththekingandwilluseittotakemyfather’stitleandlandswhenhepasses.NothingIsaymakesanydifference.”

“Well,I’msorrytohearthat,Marcus.”Jakesaid.“Really,I’msorry.”“Thankyou,Jake.”Marcusreplied,noddinghishead.“Whatisthesecondreason?”Jakeasked.“Iwantedtoknowwhatthekingsaidtoyoulastnight.”Marcusstated

directly.“Afteryouleft,Keriawenttospeakwithherfather.Ididnothearwhatwassaid,butshewasinamoodafterwards.Shewouldnottellmewhathadupsether,butIgathereditwaswhatthekingspokewithyouabout.”

Jakeconsideredforamomentonwhattosay,thensighed,shakinghishead.Marcusdeservedtoknow.Jaketoldhimwhatthekinghadsaid,aswellaswhathesaidtotheking.MarcussimplylookedatJakeoncehefinished,reflectingonwhathejustheard.

AfterafewtensemomentsforJake,Marcusspoke.“Iappreciateyourhonestly.IthinkthatKeriaseesitdifferently,butIbelievethatyoumadetherightdecision.”HeheldupahandbeforeJakecouldsayanything.“Idon’tsay

thattobecruelortoapplaudmygoodfortune,butbecauseIthinkthatyouhavealongroadaheadofyoubeforeyoucanreturntoyourhome.”Hepausedbriefly.“Iknowsomethingofbeingseparatedfromhome,soIamsympathetictoyourplight.”

HestoodandcameovertoJake,extendinghishand.“Iseemtofindmyselfgettingfurtherindebttoyou.”Marcussaid,asmileappearingonhisface.“Iwouldlikeanyhardfeelingsthatexistedbetweenustofadeaway.Iacceptyourofferfromtheroadandwantyoutoconsidermeafriend.”

Jakeslowlystoodandshookhishand.“Thankyou,Marcus.”Jakesaid.“JusttakecareofKeria.”

“Withmylife.”Marcussaidseriously.Hetunedtoleave.“Youshouldcontinuetogatheryourstrength.”Hepausedatthedoor,lookingback.“Ifyouneedmyhelpforanything,sendamessageandIwillcome.”

AfterthecurtainclosedbehindMarcus,Jakeheardamurmurofvoicesfromtheyardandglancedoutthewindowtoseewhoitwas.MadalinandCherisewereatthefootofthestepstalkingwithMarcuswhileNorlanlookedonfromthedoor.JakewatchedasMarcustookCherise’shandandkisseditashesaidsomethingtoher.JakesawCheriseabsolutelyglowwithdelightasMarcusturnedtogiveMadalinaformalbow,Madalinwithapleasedsmileonherface.Marcusdoeshaveawaywithwomen.IthinkIneedtoaskhimforsomepointers.Jakethoughtsardonically.

AsMarcusnoddedtoNorlanandleft,Madalinturnedtogobackinside.JakesawthatsheblushedslightlywhenshesawNorlanlookingatherwithhisarmscrossedandacockedeyebrowandcrookedsmileonhisface.Madalinwenttohim,layingherhandonhisarmandwhisperingsomethingtohimthatmadehimthrowbackhisheadandlaugh.TheywentbackinsidewhileCherisereleasedMaxisfromhisenclosureandtheyranaroundintheyard.

Jake,feelingalittlecoopedup,wentoutsideandjoinedCheriseandMaxis.Thedaywasstillcoolandcloudy,whichmadetheexercisepleasant.Hewasamusedby,butdidgrowslightlytiredof,CheriseextollingthevirtuesofMarcus.HewasgladthatheandMarcuswerenolongerrivals,butitsuckedabittogetremindedofwhatagreatguyhewas.Afterall,Jakethoughttohimself,Iamnotallthatbadaguyeither.Afterawhile,heclaimedtobetiredandreturnedtohisroom.

Heclimbedbackintobed,sittingupwithhisbackagainstthewall,andreleasedhispower.Hestaredatthefallwall,lostinthoughtsofKeria,Marcusandhome.HeponderedonhowhecouldpossiblyreturntoEarth,since

everyonehereseemedtobeatalossonwhattodo.Helosttrackoftime,withallofhisfocusinward.Beforeherealized,itwaslateafternoon.Withouthispower,hebegantofeelweakandwasconsideringlyingdownforanapbeforedinnerwhenhisdoorcurtainpulledasideandKeriacameintohisroom.Shestoppedandstaredathim,herbeautifulfaceamaskofanger.

“Keria!”Jakeexclaimedashecalleduphismagic,sittingupstraighter.“Whatareyoudoinghere?”

“Howcouldyouagreewithmyfather’sidioticdecision?!”Shesnapped,hergreeneyeslikehardemeralds.“Andwithoutevenspeakingwithme?”

“Keria,Icanseethatyouareupset.”Jakesaid,softlyandcautiously.“Ididn’tknowhowtotellyou,butyourfatherisright.YouwillbeQueensomedayandIcan’tbeaking.”

“Howdoyouknowthat,Jake?”Shereplied,voicesofterbutangerstillplainonherface.“YouarethemostunusualboyIhaveevermet.Youriskedyourlifetosaveme,butyouwouldn’tevenargueforthechancetofindoutwithmyfather.”

“WhatcouldIsay?”Jakereplied.“Ilikeyou,Keria,butifawayhomeshowedupnow,Iwouldtakeit.Yourfatherwasrightaboutthat.”

“Maybeyoucannevergohome.”Keriasaid.“Haveyouthoughtofthat?”“Ithinkaboutitallthetime.”Jakestatedangrily.“Don’tyouthinkIknow

thatImaybestuckhere?”“Thenwhynotacceptthatandstayherewithme?”Keriasaidgently,

steppingcloser.“Youhavefaceddownanddefeateddemons;surelywecanfindawaytomakemyfatherrelentifyoureallywantedit.”

“Look,twothings.First,Idon’tknowhowallofthepoliticsandnoblethingworks.Second,itwouldnotbefairtoyouif,outoftheblue,Icangohome.”Jakesaid,tryingtobereasonable.“Youneedsomeonewhoknowsthesystemandwhowillalwaysbehere.”Jakeswallowed,stillnotbelievinghewasgoingtosaythis.“SomeonelikeMarcus.”

Keriastiffened.“So,youarejustlikemyfather;thinkingthatyoucanselectsomeoneformewithoutaskingwhetherIwantthatperson.”Shesaidhaughtily.Jakecouldseeunshedtearsstandinginhereyes.“IthoughtyouwouldunderstandthatIsimplywanttochoosemyownway.”Shepaused,thensaiddirectly.“Icanneverhateyou,Jake;youriskedallformeandhavesufferedforit.ButIdon’tthinkIwilleverforgiveyouforthis.”Withthat,sheturnedandmarchedoutthedoor.

Jakesatthere,stunnedandhurt.Hebroughthiskneestohischest,resting

hisarmsonhislegs,handscurlingintofists,jawclenching.Hestaredatthefarwall,tryingtoboreaholeinitwiththeangerinhisheart.Thisisallbullshit.Hesnarledtohimself.Ididn’taskforanyofthis.Ican’tgohomeandIcan’tstayhere.Atleast,nothowIwouldwant.

Hewassofocusedonhisangerthathemissedthefaintvoicescomingfromtheyard.So,healmostjumpedoutofhisskinwhenthedoorcurtainwhippedbackandDominicstrodeintotheroom.

“Dominic!”Jakeexclaimed,shockedtoseehim.Dominic’sclothesweretravel-stained,hisbreastplatescarredwithscratchesandadeepgouge,andabandageononearm.Hestoppedatthefootofthebed,crossinghisarmsandlookingatJake.

“Youshouldn’tmakeawomanlikethatunhappy,boy.”Dominicsaidinthewayofagreeting,noddingtowardsthewayKeriahadgone,anamusedlookinhisbrightblueeyes.“Shecanmakeyourlifeaterrorifshewants.”

“Whendidyougetback?”Jakeasked,hisgratificationatDominic’sreturnoverwhelminghisangerandfrustration.“Howdidthebattlego?”

Dominicpulledthestooloverandsatdown.“Wejustarrived.”Hesaid.“WestoppedoffattheTemplefirst.Thegirlwasthereandtoldmethatyouwerebackhere.”HelookedcloselyatJake,hiseyesevaluating.“I’mgladtoseeyouupandabout.Shementionedthatyoucouldmovewiththeassistanceofyourpower.”

“Yeah,itbeatslyingaround,thoughIstillgettiredeasily.”Jakesaid.“Tellmewhathappened.”

“Webreachedthefortresseasilyenough.”Dominicstated,tonematter-offact.“Onceinside,weoverwhelmedtheinitialforceofdemonsandhalf-men,buthadtostartsplittingofftoclearthepassagewaysandrooms.Weassignedtwosoldierstoeverycleric;AlleonandIprotectedJonas.Ittookusallnightandintothenextday,butwewereabletokillordriveoffallofthedemonsandtheirfollowers.Theplacewasriddledwithpassagewaysthatledtothehills,somanythatfleduswereabletoescape.”Dominicshookhishead,clearlynothappyaboutthat.“Wedidnothavealargeenoughforcetogoafterthem.Wehadlostfiveclericsandtheirescortsduringthefighting.Theywerekilledwhentheywereclearingrooms,separatedfromthemainforce,andcorneredbythedemons.”

“Wedidfindandfreearoundadozencaptivesinthedungeons.”Dominiccontinued.“Theytoldusthattherehadbeensomein-fightingamongstthedemonsandmanygroupsofthehalf-menhadfledthefortressbeforewe

arrived.Wetookthecaptiveswithusandburnedanythingthatwasofusebeforeweleft.Theclericstreatedthecaptivesandweescortedthemtothelocalgarrisonfortress,whereweweretoldthatyouhadstoppedonyourwaytothecity.Werestedovernight,thenheadedbacktothecapital.”

“Alleonhasgonetothepalacetoinformtheking.”Dominicfinished,standingup.“IneedtogetShadowandDontastothestables,aswellasgetcleanedup,butIwantedtocheckonyoufirst.IwillcomebytomorrowwithJonas,sohecanassessyourcondition.”Heheadedforthedoorway.“Goodnight,boy.”

“I’mgladthatyouandJonasarealright.”Jakeblurtedout.“Iwasworriedaboutyou.”

Dominiclookedbackoverhisshoulder.“Thankyou,Jake.”Hesaidsimplyandleft.

…Earlythenextmorning,withthesunbarelyoverthehorizon,theskyfilled

withscatteredcloudsandacoolbreezedriftingthoughthegarden,Hailynrakedthedirtpathsthatcrisscrossedthroughtheplants.AllapprenticeswereassignedtaskstokeepuptheTemplegrounds.Shewasgratefulforthephysicallaborsinceitallowedheranopportunitytoquietlyreflectonthingsassheworked.Sheespeciallylikedspendingtimeinthegarden,enjoyingthefreshscentsfromtheplantswhilethebirdssangfromthetreesoverhead.Itwasverypeacefulandrefreshing.

“Hailyn!”Avoicecalledtoher.ShelookedovertoseeCesila,anotherapprenticejoggingovertoher.Cesilastoppedafewfeetaway,pantingslightlyfromherexertions.“MasterJonashasrequestedthatyoucometothesanctuarynow.Iwillfinishyourworkhere.”

HailynhandedtheraketoCesila,brushingoffsomestrayleavesfromherrobesasshewalkedovertothenearbydoorwayandenteredtheTemplebuilding.Shewentthroughthelibrary,noddingtotheclericsandapprenticesstudyingthere,andpassedintotheTempleproper.ShealwaysappreciatedthebeautyoftheTemple,thecoloredglassinthetallwindowsfillingitwithcolorduringtheday.Shewalkeddownthecenteraisle,withthepolishedwoodenbenchesoneitherside.Directlyahead,shesawthelargecandleonthealtar,itsflameglowingsoftly.ItwasalwayskeptlittosymbolizetheeternalnatureoftheOne.AboveitwasthelargewhitebannerthatrepresentedtheLightoftheOne.

ShestoppedbrieflybeforethealtartogiveherthankstotheOne,andthen

headedtothesanctuarydoorbuiltintothewallnearthealtar.Thesanctuarywasasmallroomthatwassentasidefortheclericstospeakwithpeoplethatrequestedprivacy.Apprenticesalsowerecalledtothesanctuarywhentheyweretobecounseledbytheclerics.Shedidnotthinkshehadcommittedanyinfractions,soshewasnotsurewhyshewasbeingcalled.TheheavywoodendoorthatblockedsoundsfromcarryingintotheTemplewasopen.Whenshepausedatthedoor,shecouldhearsoftvoicescomingfromthesanctuary.

“Master.”Hailyncalledintothehallwaythatledtothesanctuary.“Iamhere.”

“Comein,Hailyn,andclosethedoorbehindyou.”Jonas’voicecamebacktoher.

Shepulledtheheavydoorclosed,havingtostrainabit,anditshutwithahollowboomthatechoedinthestonehallway.Asshewalkeddowntheshortdistance,shesawthatthesanctuarywasbrightlylitwithmanycandles.Whensheenteredthemainroom,shepaused,surprised.Therewasalongwoodentablesetupwithasinglechairsittinginthemiddleoftheroom,facingit.Sittingbehindthetablewerefiveclerics.

Jonassatinthemiddlechair,awelcomingsmileonhisfaceandhisstaffrestingagainstthewallbehindhim.Sittingtohisright,SisterSilvan,herhairpulledtightlybackasusual,watchedHailynenter,herfaceneutral.SilvanwasinchargeofthehealingclinicandwassecondonlytoJonasinhealingskills.ToherrightsatBrotherKethen,aportlymanwithcalculatingeyes.Kethendidnotwieldtheclerics’magic,butwasinchargeoftheTemple’sfinanceandbusinessinterests.

ToJonas’leftwasaclericthatHailynknewverywell.SisterLaverawasanolderwoman,herhairgrayandfacelinedwithage.Shealsodidnotwieldpower,butshewasknownasapersonwithasteelwill.Thatwaswhyshewaschosenastheclericinchargeoftheapprenticetraining.Hailynknewthatbeneathherhardexterior,Laverawasalsoacaringwoman,alwaystheretocomforttheapprenticeswhentheywerehomesickorhadbecomeoverwhelmedbythetraining.SittingnexttoherwasBrotherTrence,aleanandmuscularmaninearlymiddleagewhowasinchargeoftheclericsthatservedinthearmy.Heoftentaughttheapprenticeshand-to-handcombatskills,preparingthemforpossiblemilitaryduty.

“Pleasesit,Hailyn.”Jonassaid,gesturingtotheemptychair.Hailynwentoverandsat,drawingadeepbreathandcalminghermind.She

returnedJonas’look,herhandsfoldedinherlap,andwaited.

“IhavespokenwithyouabouthowIfeltyouwerereadytotaketheteststoleavetheapprenticeship.”Jonassaid.“Havingwatchedyouduringtherescueoftheprincess,aswellasSilvan’sobservationsfromthetripback,Ihavedecidedthatthetimehascometotestyourknowledgeandskills.Ifwearesatisfied,wewillwelcomeyouasafullcleric.”Hepausedforamoment,thenasked.“Areyoureadytofacethetests,Hailyn?”

“Iam,Master.”Shereplied,keepinghervoicesteadyinspiteofthesuddenknotinherstomach.

“Thenweshallbegin.”Jonassaidformally.“Describeforustheroleoftheclericinthelivesofthepeople.”

Hailyntookadeepbreathbeforeresponding,focusedonprovidingthebestanswer,committedtopassingwhatevertestswouldbegivenher.

…Itwasmid-afternoonwhenDominicandJonasappearedatJake’sroom.He

hadspentmostofthedayroamingtheyard,playingwithMaxisandsleeping.Hewassittingonhisbed,inspectinghissword,whenthedoorcurtainpulledbackandtheywalkedin.

“Hello,Jake.”Jonassaid,lookingcloselyatJake’sface.“YoulookbetterthanwhenIlastsawyou.”

“I’mgladtoseeyou,Jonas.”Jakeresponded.“Ifeelbetterwithmypower,butamstillveryweakwhenIdon’thaveit.”

“Releaseyourpowerandletmelookatyou.”Jonasstated.Jakesatbackagainstthewall,thenreleasedhismagic,feelinghisstrength

fadeaway.Heimmediatelyfeltthatstrangecrawlingsensation,thistimecomingverystronglyfromJonas.Jonassteppedcloser,causingthesensationtoincrease,makingitfeelasifthousandsofantswereswarmingoverJake’sbody.WhenJonascalleduphispower,hisshiningauralightingtheroom,thesensationbecameunbearable.UnsurewhatwashappeningandconcernedforJonas,Jakesummonedhispower,cuttingoffthesensation.Jonassteppedback,alookofconfusiononhisface.

“Stayback,Jonas.”Jakesaid.“Youmaygethurt.”“WhydoyousaythatJake?”Jonasinquired.Sighing,Jakeexplainedasbesthecouldabouthissensationandhowitwas

strongestfromtheclerics.JaketoldJonasthatHailynhadspokenwithhimabouttheriskstotheclerics.Hefinishedbydescribinghowhispowerseemedtocutoffthesensation.

“Interesting.”JonassaidwhenJakefinished.Hestoodthere,watchingJake

andthinking.Afterafewmoments,hespokeagain.“IamnotsureIcanfindanythingaboutthisinourtexts.Ibelievethatwewilljusthavetotryandhealyou,Jake.Thereisariskthere,butwewillnotknowifwedonottry.”

“No,Jonas.”Jakesaidstubbornly.“Iwillnotallowyouoranyoneelserisktheirlifeforme.”

“Jake.”Jonassaidreassuringly.“IamaservantoftheOne.MylifeisinHishands.IfIamtofallhelpingyou,thenthatismyfate.”Hecameforward,shiningbrightly.

“No.”Jakestatedagain,liftinghisswordandpullinginmoreofhispower,readytodeflectanyattemptbyJonastousehismagiconhim.“Iwillnotletyoudothis.”

Jonasstopped,alookoffrustrationonhisfaceattheswordandJake’sinsistence.

“Boy!”Dominicsaidsharply,hisfaceamask,thoughhiseyesseemedtoshine.“Putthatdownandstopactingthefool.Jonasknowsthedangers.”

Jakestaredback,refusingtolowerhissword.Dominicbegantomoveforward,clearlypreparedtotakethesword.

Suddenly,aknocksoundedatthedoor.Norlansteppedinside,freezingwhenhetookinJakeandJonasglowinginpower,theswordinJake’shandandthelookonDominic’sface.“I’msorrytointerruptwhateverisgoingon,butamessengerishere,askingforyouboth.”Hesaidcautiously.

“Wewilldiscussthislater,boy.”DominicgrowledatJake.HemotionedtoJonasandtheyfollowedNorlanout.Standingintheyardwasasoldierwhoseuniformindicatedthathewasassignedtooneofthecitygates.Threehorsesweretiedupatthefence.

“BrotherJonas.Dominic.”Thesoldiergreetedthem,givingthemeachanodofhishead.“Iwassenttofindyou.ThereisacarriageattheNorthGatewithseveralsoldiersasanescort.Thecaptaindidnotrecognizetheirarmoranduniforms,sowehaltedthem.TheAletonianinchargerequestedtospeaktoyoubyname.HeaskedustotellyouthatTomarisishere.”

CHAPTEREIGHT

ThecrowdatthegatecourtyardpartedasDominicandJonasrodepast,followingthemessenger.Astheyapproachedthegateandwererecognized,thesoldiersmanningthegatebegantoholduptraffic,clearingapathoutside.Theyrodeovertoanothergroupofsoldiersguardingaplainandunassumingcarriage,onethatamoderatelysuccessfulmerchantmayown.

Dominicsawthecaptainoftheguardspeakingwithanarmoredmanastrideabrownhorse.Hisarmorshoneinthelateafternoonsun,reflectingthegoldenlight,standingincontrasttohisdarkface.Therewerefourothermenonhorsebacksurroundingthecarriage,dressedinthesamearmor.Dominic,withJonasrightbehindhim,rodeslowlythroughthesoldiersstandingguard,whomovedasideastheypassed.Hecametoastopnexttothecaptain.

“Greetings,Moshanna.”Dominicsaid,raisinghisrighthandinsalute.“Ididnotexpecttoseeyouhere.”

“Greetings,Dominic.”MoshannaDeepwoodreplied,returningthesalute.“Tomarishassomeinformationthathesaidcouldnotwaitformessengers.”

“Hello,Dominic.BrotherJonas.”Afamiliarvoicecalledfromthecarriage.DominicglancedoverandsawTomaris’duskyandlinedfaceasheleaned

outofthecarriagewindow.Hiswhitehairseemedtocatchthesunwhilehisunusualpurpleeyesseemedtotakeineverything.HegesturedforJonastocomecloser.Jonasrodeoveranddismounted,goingtostandnexttothecarriagewindow.Thetwoputtheirheadstogetherandspokequietly.

“Captain.”Dominicaddressedtheofficer.“Thesemenarefriendsandposenothreattothecity.IwillvouchforthesemenandBrotherJonasandIwillescortthemwhiletheyareinthecity.Isthatsufficienttoletthempass?”

“Ofcourse,Dominic.”Theofficerreplied,givinghimashortbow.“Thankyou,Captain.”Dominicsaidwithanodofhishead.“Sendyour

messengerwithussohecanbringthishorseback.”Thecaptaincomplied,relayingtheordertothesoldier.

DominiclookedbacktowardsJonas.“Jonas.”Hecalledover.“ShouldweheadtotheTemple?”

JonasspokewithTomarisagain,andthenlookedatDominic.“No.GotoNorlan’s.”Hemotionedasoliderovertotakethehorsehewasriding.“IwillridewithTomaris.”

DominicnoddedasJonasclimbedintothecarriage.HemotionedtoDeepwood.“Joinme,Moshanna.”Hesaidpolitely.“Pleasehavethecarriageandyourmenfollowus.”Deepwoodgavetheorderstohismenandthedriverofthecarriage,thenrodeovernexttoDominic.

Withthecreakofleatherandwoodandsoundsofhorseshoesringingoffthepavingstones,thegroupheadedintothecity.

…AfterJonasandDominichadleft,Jakehadsheathedhisswordandgone

outsidetowalkoffsomeofhisnervousenergy.HewassurprisedandabitunsettledtohavefaceddownbothJonasandDominic.HealsofeltslightlydetachedandconflictedbetweenhisregardforbothmenandhisdeterminationtonotallowJonastoriskhislifetoattempttohelphim.HewaswrestlingwithhisemotionswhenNorlanjoinedhim.

“Whatwasgoingon,Jake?”Norlanaskedquietly,concerninhisvoice.“WhydidyouhaveyourswordonJonas?”

“Hewasgoingtoattempttohealme,butIthinkifhetries,hewillbeseriouslyhurtormaybeevendie.”Jakereplied,glancingaroundtomakesurenooneelsewasnearby.“Thatisthereasonhedidn’tdoitbefore.UnlessIknowforsurethathewon’tgethurt,I’mnotgoingtoallowhimtoriskhealingme.”

“IfJonascannothealyou,thenwhatwillyoudo?”Norlaninquired.“Youcannotstayinthisstate,whereonlyyourpowerallowsyoutomove.”Hepaused,thinking.“ItrustJonasknowswhatheisabout.Ifhebelievesthattherearenootheroptionandthinksthatitcouldwork,maybeyoushouldlethimtry.”HeplacedahandonJake’sshoulder.“Youcannotdecideforotherwhatriskstheywilltake.”

“Thisisdifferent,Norlan.”Jakestatedstubbornly.“IknowthatJonasisskilledinhealingandthinksthathecandosomethingforme.ButhowcanIlivewithmyselfif,tohealme,Jonasdies?”

“Idon’thaveaneasyanswerforyou,lad.”Norlanreplied,sighingheavily.Hepaused,thenspokemorefirmly.“IfIcoulddosomethingtohelpyou,evenifitmeantriskingmylife,Iwould.IknowthatJonasandDominicwoulddothesame.Wearegrownmen,capableofdecidingforourselveswhatwewillgambleourliveson.Youmayjusthavetofindawaytocometotermswiththat.”

Theywalkedaroundtheyardinsilence;JakewrestlingwithhisfeelingswhileNorlanwasseeminglycontenttolethim.Afteracoupleoftimesaround

theyard,Norlanstopped.“Iknowthatthisisahardmatter,Jake.”Hesaidsimply.“YouriskedyourlifetorescueCheriseandtheprincess.Theydidnotaskforit,butaregratefulthatyoudid.Donottrytodenysomeonefromdoingthesameforyou.”HepattedJakeonthearmasheturnedtogointothehouse.“IthinkthatyourconcernforJonas’well-beingisadmirable,buttrytorememberthat,inthiscase,concernrunsbothways.”

AfterNorlanwentbackinside,Jakeheadedbacktohisroom.Hesatonhisbed,restless,contemplatingwhatheshoulddo.WhatNorlansaidmadesense,buthecouldnotbringhimselftoletJonasdieinanattempttohelphim.

Hewassittingthere,unhappily,mullingoveralloftheoptions,whentherewasaknockathisdoor.HeheardHailyncalloutfromtheotherside.

“Jake,areyouin?”Sheasked.“I’mhere.”Hereplied.“Comein.”TherewassomethingdifferentaboutHailynwhenshewalkedintohisroom.

Atfirst,Jakecouldnotfigureoutwhatitwas.Sheappearedthesame,withhercurlybrownhairneatlydone,asmileonherfaceandhappinessshininginthosegolden-flakedeyes.Likeaboltfromtheblue,itcametohim.Shewasdressedinbrownclerics’robes.

“Whathappened,Hailyn?”Heinquired.“Whyareyouintheclerics’robes?”

“Ipassedmyteststhismorning.”Hailynsaid,delightinhervoice.“I’mnolongeranapprentice.”

“Congratulations,Hailyn!”Jakeexclaimed,happyforhersuccess.“Whatwerethetestslike?Whatwillyoudonow?”

Hailyncameandsatattheendofthebed.“Ifacedapanelofclerics,includingJonas,whotestedmeonmyknowledgeoftheteachingsoftheOne.Afterthat,Iwasgivenpracticalexercisestocomplete,includinghealingintheclinic.Oncethatwasfinished,IwaitedintheTemple.Itseemedforever,buteventuallyJonascameouttotellmeIhadpassedandwelcomedmeasacleric.Afterseveralhoursofcontemplationandprayer,SisterSilvanbroughtmemynewrobes.Ihavespentthelastcoupleofhoursclearingmythingsfromtheapprenticequartersandmovingintotheclerics’quarters.Therewillbeaformalceremonyinafewdays,butfornow,Ihavebeengivenleavetorestandrelax.”

“AstowhatIwilldo,thatwilldependonJonas.”Shecontinued.“SinceIamahealer,ImaybesenttoservewiththearmyorImaystayandworkintheclinicattheTemple.ItisalsopossiblethatIwillbesenttoserveacommunityelsewhereinthecountry.”

“Elsewhere?Really?”Jakemuttered,startled,havinggrownsousetoHailynbeingnearby.HewassurprisedthatthethoughtofHailynleavinghurthimmorethanhavingtosaygood-byetoKeria.“Thatsucks.”

“Don’tworry,Jake.”Hailynsaidsoothingly.“ItislikelythatJonaswilltakeyoursituationintoconsiderationwhenmakingthedecision.”

“Ihopeso.”Jakestated.HelookedatHailyn,meetinghereyes.“Youaremyclosestfriendhere.Idon’tknowwhatIwoulddowithoutyou.”

“Iamgladtohearthat,Jake.”Hailynsaidwithasmile.“Ihavegrownfondofyouaswell.”

Jakesmiledback,blushingslightlyandcursingagainthathecouldnotseemtostaycoolandcollectedaroundwomen.I’msureMarcuswouldhavesomethingsmoothtosay.Hegrimacedtohimself.

Beforehecouldsayanything,thereweresuddenvoicesoutside,thenthedoorcurtainpulledbackandDominicsteppedinside,followedbyJonas.Bothhadanairofanticipationaboutthem.ToJake,theyseemedtohavelettheearlierconfrontationslide.“Wehavesomeonewhowishestospeakwithyou,boy.”Dominicsaid.

ThecurtainpartedagainandJakewasamazedtoseeTomariscomeintheroom.HewasdressedinthesamegrayrobehealwaysworeattheKeep,thatslighthunchontheshouldersvisibleashewalkedslowly,abrownsatchelhangingfromhisshoulder.HelookedoveratJake,thosepurpleeyeswiseandknowing,butturnedtoHailyn,whowasrisingfromthebed.“Whoisthislovelychild?”Heasked,hisvoicerheumylikeJakeremembered.

“ThisisHailyn,thenewestclericoftheTemple.”Jonasrepliedforher.“SheandJakearegoodfriends.”

“Itisgoodtohavefriends,isitnot?”Tomarissaid,moreastatementthanaquestion.

“Greetings,MasterTomaris.”Hailynsaidwithanodofherhead.“JakehastoldmeabouthistimewithyouattheKeep.”

“Hashe?”Tomarisasked,soundingpleased.“Itismypleasuretomeetyou,SisterHailyn.Perhapswewillhavetimetospeakwitheachother.”

TomaristurnedtoJake,comingcloser,hiseyesstudyingJake’scondition.“Releaseyourpower,child,soIcanseewhathasbeendonetoyou.”Hesaidreassuringly.“Jonashastoldmewhatyoudidandaboutyourcondition.”

“Idon’tthinkthatisagoodidea.”Jakeresponded.“Idon’twantanyonetogethurt.”

“Fearnot,Jake.”Tomarissaidwithalightsmile.“Thereisnodangerhere

forme.”Takingadeepbreath,Jakeletgoofhismagic,wearinesssettlingoverhim

likeablanket,andwatchedasTomarisdrewnear.Jakecouldfeelthatcrawlingsensationradiatingoffallofthem,moststronglyfromTomaris,JonasandHailyn,withaweakersensationfromDominic.OnceTomarisstoppednearhim,Jakefeltasuddenchange.Ifhisconditionhadallowed,hewouldhavejumped.Unexpectedly,hecouldnolongerfeelanythingfromTomaris!

Jakewatched,fascinatedbytheabsence,asTomarisclosedhiseyesandslowlyreachedouttotouchhisforehead.JakefeltTomaris’warm,dryandpapery-feelingskin,buthealsofeltadifferentsortoftinglingfromthattouch.Hefeltitspreadthroughhisbody,distractinghimfromtheothersensation.Tomarisstayedlikethatforseveralmoments,thenpulledhishandaway.Heopenedhiseyes,givingJakeapatontheshoulder,thenturnedtoaddressJonas.

“ItisgoodthatyoudidnottrytohealJake.”Tomarissaid.“Itisasyoususpected.Jakeintertwinedhislifeforcewithhispowerwhenhelaunchedthatlastattack.Hadyoutriedtohealhim,likelyyouwouldhavedied.”

“Thenistherenothingtobedone?”Jonasaskeddejectedly.“Ifweworktogether,Ithinkwecanaddresshisinfirmity.”Tomarisreplied,

lookingdownandgivingJakeareassuringsmile.“Thereisarisk,butitwillbelessthanifeitherofustriedonourown.”HeturnedbacktoJonas.“However,wemustdiscusswhatIdiscoveredbeforewetakethatstep.”

“ShouldIremain,MasterTomaris?”Hailynasked,unsureofherplaceinthissituation.

“Pleasedo,mydear.”Tomarissaidkindly.“Ibelievethatyoushouldhearthis.”Hailynnoddedandsatbackdownattheendofthebed.

TomariscalledinDeepwood,givingJakeanothershock;JakehadnotconsideredthatDeepwoodwouldbehereaswell.DeepwoodgaveJakeabriefsalutebeforeturningtoTomaris.

“Moshanna,pleasemakesurethatnooneattemptstodisturbus.”Tomarisrequested.

“Ofcourse,Tomaris.”Deepwoodreplied,thenwentbackoutside.Oncehewasoutside,Tomaris’facetookonalookofconcentration,

gesturingtowardsthewalls.Jakecouldsuddenlyseeashimmeringintheair,similartoheatwavescomingoffhotground,coverthewalls,windowsanddoor.Oncetheshimmeringwascomplete,Tomarispulledthestoolover,sittingdownandpullinghissatcheltohisfront.

“WhenDominicandJakelefttheKeep,Ialsoleft.”Tomarisexplained.“I

havebeentrackingdownrelicsandinformationaboutourenemiessinceIwasayoungman.Overthelongyears,Ihaveheardmanyrumorsandtalesoflostartifacts,piecingtogetherwhatIcouldtodetermineifthetaleswerereal,and,whenpossible,retrievingtheseartifacts.”Hereachedintohissatchelandgentlypulledoutanancient-lookingscroll,dryandcrumbling,holdingittenderly.“Ilefttofindthis,oneofthethingsIhadfearedwaslosttotheages.”HelookedoveratJonas.“ThisisthescrollofArnes,tellingofhisvisitbytheGuardian.”

“Arnes?!”Jonasexclaimed,lookingshocked.“Areyousure?”Hailynhadherhandoverhermouth,hereyeslookingstunned.EvenDominicseemedtakenaback.

“Quitesure,Jonas.”Tomarisstatedwithconviction.“Who’sArnes?”Jakeinquired.“Arneswasthefirstcleric,Jake.”Tomarissaidgently.“Whenthedemons

appeared,hecameoutofthewilderness,empoweredwiththeclerics’magicandtaughtittotheotherclerics.ItissaidthathehimselfwastaughtbytheGuardian.”

“Guardian?”Jakeasked,feelinglostinthisconversation.“TheGuardian.”Tomarissaid,lookingoveratJonas.“Itisabeliefofthe

clericsthattheCreatorassignedaGuardiantoprotectthisworldfromthedemons.”

“Hedoesn’tseemedtohavedonetoogoodofajob.”Jakestated.“Manyhavethoughtthesame,Jake.”Tomarissaid.Heliftedthescrolland

begantogentlyunrollit.“Here,inArnesscroll,isthetaleoftheGuardianandofhisfailure.”Withthat,hebegantoread.

…TheGuardianwaswanderinginthemarketofacityontheeasterncoast,

surroundedbythepeoplewhopassedhimby,unawareofhispresence.HewasaservantoftheCreator,immortal,havingexistedbeforeTimeitself.Hewastaskedwithprotectingallofthepeopleonthisworld,confrontinghislostbrotherswhentheysoughttoinfluenceman.TheyweretrappedintheDarkness,butcouldstillreachintothespiritualrealm.

Hefeltforthetelltaledarkeningofaperson’sspirit,asignthathisfallenbrotherswereatwork.Hetraveledfarandwide,hissensestrainedtodetectthedisturbancesinthespiritualrealm,seekingtoconfronthisenemiesbeforetheycouldharmthosetheysoughttoinfluence.Hewasforbiddentocompelthepeopleofthisworldtodoanything,thoughhecouldappearinthephysicalworld,histrueessencehidden,offeringcounselandadvice.

Hewasenjoyingthelifeandvitalityofthemarketplace,listeningtothepeoplehaggle,argueandlaugh.Suddenly,anoverpoweringspiritualdisturbancestaggeredhim,darkwavesofevilsweepingoverhim.Hecaughthimselfandtriedtocalmthesuddentrickleoffearthatsprangupinsidehim.Hehadneverfeltanythinglikeitbefore.Still,hewastheGuardianofthisworld,chosenbytheCreator,andhemustconfrontwhateverhadjusthappened.Heeasilylocateditsorigin,radiatingmalevolencelikeanopenwound,andsteppedoutofrealityandmovedtothatspot.

Asheappearedatthepointofthedisturbance,hewasastonishedforasecondtime.Hesawatearinthefabricofrealityitself.Thistearexistedinboththespiritualandphysicalrealm.Hewouldhavetohealthistearinbothrealms,sohesteppedoutofthespiritualrealmandbecamefleshonthephysicalplane.Hewastallandpowerfulinhisphysicalform,clothedinshiningarmor,hisbreastplatecarvedwithintricaterunes.Hefoundhimselfinasparselywoodedarea,thetreesthatwerestandingappearedstunted,thegroundlitteredwithrocksandboulders.

Inthephysicalworld,thetearappearedasalarge,rotatingvortex,wedgedbetweentwolargeboulders,theedgeslinedwithredfireandatthecenterthedarkestblack.Hecouldfeelthestrengthofthetearanddrewhissword.Thesword,createdandgivenintohishandsbytheCreator,wasfilledwiththeLight.ThisgavetheGuardianmorepowerthanhehadinhimself.Theswordflaredbrilliantlyashedrewit,rivalingthesuninthesky,itspowerfillinghim.Hestudiedthetearforseveralmomentsbeforemovingforward.Hewouldcloseitquicklyandthenrepairthedamageinthespiritualrealm.

Ashebeganmovingtowardsthetear,avoicerosebehindhim,chillinglyfamiliar.Hespun,eyeswideningashesawhimstandingthere.Itwashisformerbrother,theonewhomhehadbeenclosestto,bothemotionallyandinpower,inthatperiodbeforeCreation.HehadfallenintoDarkness,butwassomehowstandingonthisworld.Theyhadfoughtbitterlyduringtherebellion,eachstrivingtodestroytheother.ThereweresomephysicalalterationsfromhistimeintheDarkness,butitwashe.Thatisimpossible.TheGuardianthought,stunned.

“So,itisyou.”Hisfallenbrothersaidwithsatisfaction,atwistedandcruelsmileonhisface.“IthoughtIhadfeltyourpresenceonthisworld.”

“Idonotknowhowyouescapedyourprison,butyouwillfindthatyourreleaseisshort-lived.”TheGuardiansaid,movingtowards,swordready,confidentinhispower.

“Thatwouldbetrue,ifIhadcomealone.”Thedemonlaughed.Hegesturedandfromhidingplacesamongsttherocksmoredemonsappeared.TheirshapesandappearanceshadbeenalteredfromthelongeonsspentintheDarkness.TheyspreadoutandsurroundedtheGuardian.Herecognizedseveralofthestrongestbytheiressence,includingCreatosandHelvan.Thosetwobegantoorganizethelesserbrothersnearthem.

“Thisworldwillbeours,Guardian.”Thedemonlordtaunted.“Youcannotstandagainstus.”

“IamaservantoftheCreator,entrustedtodefendthisworld.”TheGuardianbravelystated.“YouwillfindthatIamnoteasilydefeated.”Withthat,hesurgedforward,swordmoving.

Callingfortheotherstoattack,thedemonlordsentablisteringstreakofdarkfiretowardshim,whichtheGuardianextinguishedwithhismight.Hewasclosingwiththedemonlordwhenhewasstruckonallsidesbythedemons’powers.Hewasbuffetedbythatassault,butovercameit,hisformandswordnowblindinglybright,shiningwiththepurestwhitelight.Helashedoutattheclosestdemons,hispowerburningintothem,severaloftheweakeronesexplodingintoash.

Hecontinuedtryingtogetwithinstrikingdistancetousehissword,butthedemonsweremoving,shiftingpositions,whilecontinuingtorockhimwithattacks.Hefeltsomeofthedarkenergyslippasthisdefenses,burninghisskin.Hegrimacedatthesuddenpain,somethingthathehadnotfeltsincetherebellionagainsttheCreator.

Hewassurroundedonallsidesnow,ashiningislandinaseaofdarkfire.Needingtoprotecthimself,hewasunabletobringhisfullmighttobear,damagingsomeofthedemons,butunabletodestroyenoughtomakeadifference.Hewasstilldevelopingaplanofattackwhenthedemonschangedtactics.

Hewasunabletomovefastenoughwhenseveraldemonsthrewthemselvesagainsthimphysically.Theypulledathim,tryingtobringhimdowndespitethepainthathispowercausedthem,theirclawsscoringhisarmor.Hewasabletothrowoffhisattackers,hisswordswingingandcatchingthem,destroyingthemwithflaresofLight.

Nowthemorepowerfuldemonschargedhim,theirfireslammingintohimastheyclosedthedistance.HecouldnotavoidCreatosandthedemonlordastheycrashedintohim,rockinghimwithblowswhiletheotherdemonskeptupaconstantbombardmentofdarkfire.Hesentaflareofpowerintothem,causing

pain,butnotenoughtodislodgethem.Callingforthhislastreservoirofstrength,hesucceededinthrowingoffCreatos,butthedemonlordseizedhishandholdingthesword,ignoringthepaintheswordcaused,andtwisted,wrenchingtheswordfromhishand.

Theswordfelltotheground,itsLightsuddenlyextinguished.TheGuardianattemptedtoretrieveit,butwasforcedbackbythedemons’might,theirpowerburningpasthisdefenses.Withouthissword,heknewthathecouldneverdefeatthismanyofhisfallenbrothersandwouldfall,leavingthepeopleofthisworldunguarded.Withacryoffrustrationandpain,hesentablastofpowerintohisenemies,gainingameasureofspace,andtranslatedoutofthephysicalplaneandfled.

…Tomariscarefullysetthescrolldownonhislap.Theroomwasquietasthey

allcontemplatedwhattheyhadjustheard.Afterseveralmomentsofreflection,Tomarisspokeagain.

“Thescrollgoesontosaythat,afterhisdefeat,theGuardianappearedtoArnes,whowaslivingaloneinacave,andshowedhimhowtoaccesstheclerics’power.HeexplaineditsusesandbidhimtogooutandbringotherstotheserviceoftheOne.”Hepaused,thensaid.“Further,itstatesthattheGuardianwouldcontinuetoopposethedemonsashecould,butwithouthissword,hecouldnotdirectlyconfrontthemorhealthetear.Thereisamentionthathemustcontinuetohidehispresencetopreventthedemonsfromtrackinghimdownanddestroyinghim.”

“Whydidn’ttheOnesimplybanishthedemons?”Jakeasked.“Thatwouldseemtobetheeasiestwaytotakecareofthis.Thatwouldhavepreventedathousandyearsofchaos.”

“IcertainlydonotknowthemindoftheCreator,Jake.”Tomarissaidwithasoftchuckle.“Wehavetoassumethatthereisareasonforallthings,evenifwecan’tunderstandwhy.”

“Also,considerthatourlivesarebutlikeflashesoflightinthebroadsweepoftime.”Tomarissaidmoreseriously.“YouareyoungandIamsurethatthetimetoreachyourageseemstohavetakenalongtime,butatmyage,thatperiodofmyownlifeseemsbutabriefmoment.Canyouimaginewhatathousandyearswouldbetoanimmortalcreaturethatexistedbeforethecreationoftime?Likely,thoselongyearsseembutwhatafewminuteswouldbetous.”

“Nowthatweknowthis,Tomaris,whatdowedowithit?”Dominicasked.“Youdidnotsimplycomeheretogiveusahistorylesson.”

“Youarecorrect,Dominic.”Tomarisreplied.“IthinkIhavefoundawaythatwecanhelpJakereturntohisworldandgainanotherweaponinourfightagainstourenemies.”Hepaused,lookingateachofthem,appearingtogaugewhatreactionhiswordswouldbring.“IbelievethatwemustfindandrecovertheGuardian’ssword.”

CHAPTERNINE

“Areyoumad,Tomaris?”Dominicasked,voicedeathlyquiet.“HowcanweaccomplishsomethingthattheGuardiancannotdo?”

“IamsaneIassureyou,Dominic.”Tomarisrepliedevenly,takingnooffence.“Istilldon’tunderstandhowJakewasbroughthere,otherthanittooksomeoneorsomethingwithgreatpower.EvenifIsolvethatpuzzle,IlackthestrengthtoevenattempttoreturnJaketohisworld.Theswordisasourceofgreatpower.Withit,IbelievethatwestandthegreatestchancetobesuccessfulinhelpingJake,aswellashavingamightyweapontowieldagainstourenemies.Ifweweretosucceed,perhapstheGuardianhimselfwouldappear,sendingJaketohishomeandclosingthetear.”

Hepausedforamoment.“Also,itmaybeamadidea,asyousuggest,butIdoubtthatourenemiesevendaretobelievethatwewouldmaketheattempt.WhatarewecomparedtotheGuardian?Thatmaygiveustheedgeweneedtobesuccessful.”

“Whereisthesword,then?”Dominicdemanded.“Whyhaveyounotseizeditbefore,ifitcanbedone?”

“Idonotknowtheexactlocationofthesword.”Tomarisadmitted.Hehelduphishandswheneveryone,shockedandindisbelief,begantoprotest.Afteritquieted,hecontinued.“Iamconfidantthatwecanlocateit,butitwilltakecourageanddetermination.WhenIwasayoungerman,Iheardmanystoriesofapowerfulobjectthatthedemonsprotected.Itrackeddownthoseleadsandfoundcluesthatnowindicatetomethattheobjectofthosestoriesisthesword.Thedemonscannottouchorusetheswordasitisananathematothem,buttheyprotectittokeepitfromtheGuardian.IwasneverabletofinditorIwouldhaveattemptedtotakeit;itismovedfromtimetotime.”

“WhatIproposeisdangerous,withasmallchanceofsuccess,buttherewardisgreat.”HelookedatDominic.“Iknowthatyouhavesmallregardforyourownsafety,butareyouwillingtoriskyourlifeforachancetosendJakebacktohisproperworld?”

“Iwouldriskit,aslongasitisnotafool’serrand.”Dominicreplieddirectly,faceneutralandarmscrossed.

TomarisnoddedandturnedtoJake.“Jake,areyouwillingtofacedangerandhardshipinanefforttofindawayhome?”Heasked,watchinghimclosely.

“Iwould,ifIwasn’tinthiscondition.”Jakestated.Tomarissatsilentforawhile,studyingJakeandthinking.“Ibelievethat,

withJonas’assistance,Icanhelpyouwiththat.However,Ithinkthatwecanuseyourcurrentconditiontoaidus.”

“Doyoustillbelievethatthedemonshavespiesinthecity,asyoumentionedinyourletter,Jonas?”Tomarisasked.

“Ido.”Jonasreplied.“WeknowthattheirattackwasdirectedatJake.Theyknewofhim,wherehelivedandwithwhomheassociated.Theycouldonlyknowthatifsomeoneinthecitywasprovidingthatinformation.”Heabsentlyscratchedhisbeard.“Also,theattackontheprincesswasmeanttodrawJakeout.Someonehadtoknowthescheduleofhertravelsandthatwouldonlycomefromthepalace.”

“Letususethistoouradvantage.”Tomarissaid.“WewillletitbeknownthatIamtakingJakebacktotheKeeptostudyhiscondition.Oncewearesafelyaway,wecansendhimoffinsearchforthesword.”

“SurelyyoudonotintendtosendJakeoffbyhimself?”Jonasasked,incredulous.

“No.”Tomarisreplied.“Hewillneedsomeonewhoknowssomethingoftheworldandcanhelpguidehim.”

“Iwillgo.”Dominicsaid.“Iwillprotecthim.”“No,notyou,Dominic.”Tomarisdisagreed.“Youaretoowellknownand

ifourenemiesseeayoungmanwithyou,theywillknowwhothatisandrealizeourruse.”Hecontinuedmoregently.“Youwillsearchforthesword,butnotinthewayyoumaythink.”

“Whothen,ifnotme?”Dominicdemanded.TomarislookedoveratHailynandnodded.“Absolutelynot!”Jonasinterjected.“Shehasjustbarelypassedhertests.If

aclericisneeded,thenIwillgo.”“No,friendJonas.”Tomarissaidkindly.“Youareaswellknownas

Dominic.Yourpresencewoulddrawunnecessaryattention.”HelookedatJonaswithameasureofsadnessinhiseyes.“Also,Isometimehaveglimpsesofwhatmaybe.Inthesevisions,Ihaveseenthatyouwillbeneededhere.Ifyouarenotpresent,thenterriblethingswillhappen.”

“Then,IwillfindanotherclerictogowithJake.”Jonasreplied,frustrationevidentonhisface.“Hailynisnotready.”

“Jakewillneedsomeonethathetrustsandcanrelyon.”Tomarisresponded.“CanyoufindaclericwhowillcaremoreforJakethanthis

beautifulchilddoes?”Jonaswasquiet,hisjawclenchingashethoughtofhowtorespond.Inthat

silence,Dominicspoke.“Sheisaclericnow,Jonas.”Hesaiddirectly.“Shemaybeyoung,butshe

isaskilledhealer,level-headedandbrave.Theboyandhergetalong,whichisimportantonlongmissions.Sheseemsthebestchoice.”

HeturnedtoHailyn.“WillyougowithJake,girl?Knowingtherisksandthesmallchanceofsuccess?”Dominicasked.

Hailynstraightenedandresponded.“Iwill,Dominic.”ShelookedoveratJonas.“IfBrotherJonasallowsit.”

Jonasstruggledwithhisemotions;hesawboththelongingandthefearofbeingleftbehindinhereyes.Heknewofherfeelings,buthethoughtofheralmostlikeadaughter;hewasclosertoherthananyoftheotherapprenticesintheTemple.HewrestledwithhisdesiretoprotectherandrealizationthatDomwasright.Sayingasilentprayerforstrength,hetriedtobelievethathewasdoingtherightthing.

“Hailynwillgo.”Hesaidreluctantly.“AsDomsaid,sheappearstobethebestchoice.”Heputahandonhershoulder,tryingtoignorethelookofreliefonherface.“SheisaclericoftheOneandwemusttrustinHisgracetokeepthembothsafe.”

“Westillfaceachoice.”Tomarissaid.“FromwhatIhavebeenabletopiecetogether,Ibelievethattheswordisinoneoftwolocations.Whileitisimpreciseandthetruelocationunknown,onesetofcluespointstothenorth,somewhereinBeragan,whiletheothersuggestsitisinthefarsouthofAletonia,neartheSouthernWilds.WhatIproposeisthatwesendJakeandHailyntothenorthwhileDominicwillaccompanyMoshannatothesouth.MoshannaisfromAletonia,sohecanassistDominic.”

“Shouldn’twesendsomesoldiersorotherclericsalongwiththem?”Jonasasked.“WhileDomcanusuallytakecareofhimself,demonslikelyguardthesesitesandonlyclericscansucceedthere.”

“Stealthwillbekeytothisquest,Jonas.”Tomarisreplied.“Toolargeagroupanditwillattractattention.Also,neithercountryislikelytowelcomeSanduansoldiersroaminginsidetheirborders.”Hethoughtforamoment.“WhileJakeandHailynhavethepowertostandagainstthedemons,DominicandMoshannawillneedsomemagicontheirside.”

“Whatdoyouproposethen?”Jonasqueried.“CanyoufindaclericaroundJake’ssize?”Tomarisresponded.“Onethat

isstronginhispower?”Jonasthoughtitover,andthennodded.“IknowaclericthatItrusttodo

this.”“ThenyouwillannouncethatHailynandthisotherclericaregoingona

missiontotheclericsofBeraganandtheywillaccompanyuswhenweheadbacktotheKeep.”Tomarisstated.“Oncewegettothecrossroads,wewilldressJakeinthecleric’srobesandsendthemnorth.TheclericwillactasJake’sdoubleuntilwereachtheKeep,thenhecanaccompanyDominicsouth.Dominic’spresencewithmypartyisobvious,asheisknownasJake’sprotector,andwillreinforcetheideathatJakeisattheKeep.”

“Remember,wemustkeepthisplansecret.”Tomariscautioned.“Ifourtruepurposeisknown,thenthedemonswillmovetheswordorreinforcetheirpositions.”

“Areweagreed?”Heasked.DominicgaveacurtnodwhileJonasdidsoreluctantly.HailynlookedatJakeandtheybothindicatedyes.

“Now,ithasbeenalongday.Iamoldandtravelisnotaspleasurableasitoncewas.”Tomarissaid.“Wewillusetomorrowtoprepareforthejourney,thenJonasandIwillreturntomorrownighttohealJake.Wecandepartearlythenextmorning.”

“CometotheTemple,Tomaris.”Jonassaid,headingtothedoor.“Wehaveroomforyouandyourmen.”

“Thankyou,friendJonas.”Tomarisresponded.“Yourhospitalityismuchappreciated.”HelookedbacktowardsJake.

“IfyouallowmeaprivatemomentwithJake?”Tomarisrequested.“Wewillwaitoutside.”Jonassaidandheleft,followedbyDominicand

Hailyn.“Child,thisisadangerousundertaking.”Tomarisbegan.“IfIwasyounger

andcouldendurethephysicaldemandsofthisquest,Iwouldaccompanyyou.SinceIcannot,youmustrelyonyourstrengthandpower.Evenifyouremainundetected,youmaystillfacechallengesthatwilltestyoutoyourlimits.Rememberwhatyouaretryingtoaccomplishandhavefaithinyourself.”

“However,youmustlearntocontrolyourfear.”Hecontinued.“Ibelievethatyourfeariswhattriggeredtheintertwiningofyourlifeforcewithyourpower.Jonastoldmeofwhathappenedthatcausedyoutotouchthatforce.Bothtimesitsoundedasifyouwerefrightenedenoughthatthefearoverwhelmedyou.IknowthatDominichastriedtotrainyoutokeepfightingevenwhenafraid.Thatcontrolisthesamewithyourpower.”

“IadmitIwasscaredoutofmymind,butallIdidwastrytogainmorepower.Ididn’tdoanythingdifferent.”Jakestated,lookingdownathishands,seeingtheunnaturalpaleness.“Istilldon’tunderstandwhatyouandJonasmeanbymylifeforce.”

“Yourlifeforceisthatwhichanimatesyourphysicalbody.”Tomarisexplained.“Ihavetoldyouthatmanisacreatureoftwoworlds,thephysicalandspiritual.ThelifeforceisagiftofLightfromtheCreatorthatprovidestheenergythatpowersyourbodywhilebindingyourspirittoyourmortalform.Butyoushouldknowthatitisafiniteresource.Asweage,itslowlydissipates,causingthebodytoweakenandthatspiritualbindingtobecomefrayed.Onceitisexhausted,thebodydies,thebonddisappearsandourspiritsreturnstotheCreator.”

“Insomeway,youareabletotapintoit.”Hecontinued.“SinceitispureLight,itisverypowerfulagainsttheforcesofDarkness.But,asyouknow,thereisacostforusingit.Ifyouusetoomuch,thenyouwilldie.”

“Youhavebeenluckysofar.”Tomarisstated.“Inthefirstinstance,youhadJonasnearbytosuccoryou.Youhadyourfriendstobringyououtthesecondtime.Iwillbeabletohelpyounow,butonceyouonlyhaveHailynwithyou,athirdusemaymeanthateitheryouorshewilldie.ThatiswhyIurgeyoutogaincontrolofyourfearsincefearisthetrigger.Iwillnotsaythatyoumaynotfaceasituationwherethatusewillberequiredtodefeatyourfoes,butifyouuseit,knowthatitwilllikelykillyou.”

“HowdoIkeepfromusingit,then?”Jakeasked.“Controllingfeariseasiersaidthandone.”

“Unfortunately,Icannothelpyouthere.Onlyyoucancontrolyourfear,Jake.”Tomarissaidunderstandingly.“Youmustholdontocourageandcalmnessinthefaceofdanger.Keepintheforefrontofyourmindsomethinglikehome,orperhapssomeonespecial,thatwouldbelostifyoucannotcontrolyourfearandarekilled.”

Tomarisrosetoleave.“Ifyouwishtosayfarewelltoyourfriendshere,Iwouldencourageyoutodothat.”Hesaidkindly,eyescompassionate.“Yourfateisunclear,butwhateverresultsthisquestbrings,itisunlikelythatyouwillreturn.”Withthat,heturnedandleft.

Jakereleasedhismagic,saggingagainstthewall,andthoughtaboutallthathadbeensaid.Hisemotionswerejumbledandconflicting.Hefeltexcited,nervousandsadatthethoughtofleaving,butwastroubledbytheribbonoffearthattwistedinhismindashecontemplatedembarkingonaquestthatwouldbe

fullofdangers.…

ThenextdaypassedquicklyforJake.Knowingthathemayneverseethemagain,hegotupearlyandwentwithNorlantothesmithytospendsometimewithDernandAlmos.Thewalkwastiring,buthetriedtostayengagedfortheirsake.Hespentacoupleofhourstalkingwiththem,catchinguponallthathappenedsinceheleft.WhenNorlansuggestedthathegobacktothehouse,hesaidhisgoodbyes,politelytellingthemthathewouldtrytoreturnafterhefinishesattheKeep,keepingthefinalityofhisdeparturetohimself.Theyhadbeengoodfriendstohimwhenheneededfriends,soitwasaslowandsadwalkbacktothehouse.

HethenspenttherestofthedaywithCheriseandMadalin.TheyhadbeentoldthathewasreturningtotheKeepsoTomariscouldfindawaytohealhim.Theypaidcloseattentiontohim,fussingoverhimreally,andalreadyteary-eyedregardinghisdeparture.Jaketriedtoputonabraveface,notwantingthemtoworry.

WhenNorlanreturnedintheearlyevening,Dominicwaswithhim.Jakenoticedthathehadadifferentbreastplateon,onethatlookedlikehisoldone.Jakeaskedhimaboutit.

“Youhaveagoodeye,boy.”Dominicreplied.“Thisismyoldarmor.Irecovereditafterwehadclearedthedemons’fortress.Itwascustom-madeformeandIwantedtoseeifNorlancouldpoundoutthedentandfixthestraps.Ihadgonetothesmithythismorning,arrivingshortlyafteryouleft,hopingthatsomethingcouldbedone.WewerediscussingitwhenJonasandTomarisarrivedatthesmithy.Iamnotsurewhathedid,butwithTomaris’help,Norlanwasabletorepairit.”

“Ithinktheoldmanusedsomemagic.”Norlanstated,scratchinghishead.“Reheatingforgedmetalistricky;doneincorrectly,itcanruinthestrengthofthemetal.IdidnotthinkthatIcouldpossiblygetitdonebeforetomorrow.WhenTomarissaidhecouldhelpmewithit,Iwasskeptical.Buthedidsomething,standingtherewithhiseyesclosed,forthemetalseemedtobecomealmostlikeclay.Iwasabletorepairitanditcooledquickly,quickerthanitshouldhave.DernandAlmosmadethenewstrapswhileIworked.”Heshookhisheadinwonder.“Iwouldswearthatthesteelisasstrongasiteverwas.”Hebarkedashortlaugh.“IfIcouldhirehim,Iwouldmakeafortune.”

“We’llfindouthowwellitisdonewhenithastostopthefirstarroworswordthrust.”Dominicsaidsardonically.“ButIamgladtohaveproperfitting

armoragain.”DominicacceptedMadalin’sinvitationtostayfordinner.WhileJakeand

CheriseplayedwithMaxis,NorlanandDominicsatontheporchbenches,talkingquietly.Withthedaylightfadinginthewest,Tomaris’carriageappearedatthegate.JonasandTomarissteppeddownandenteredtheyard.MaxisranovertoTomaris,stoppingandsniffinghim,shakinghisheadasifhecouldnotunderstandthescent.Tomarissmileddownatthedogandpettedhim.WhenJonasandTomarisjoinedtheothermenonthebenches,JakewassurprisedthatMaxislaydownandstudiedTomaris,appearingtobepuzzlingoutwhohewas.

Madalincameout,seeingthenewcomersandaskingiftheywouldliketojointhemfordinner.WhenJonasagreed,shecalledCheriseinsidetohelpher.JakesatdownnexttoDominic,absentlylisteningasthemenmadesmalltalkabouttheweatherandthegoing-onsofthecity.

Themealwasdeliciousasusual.Oncetheyfinishedeating,Dominicdepartedtofinishgatheringsuppliesforthetrip.Asheleft,hetoldJakethatHailynwouldtakeDontasashermountonthewaytotheKeep.

“IthinkJakeshouldpackandgetsomerest.”Jonassaidgentlyashestood.“Theywillbeleavingearlyinthemorning.”HelookedatNorlanandMadalin.“TomarisandIneedtospeaktoJakeaboutsomeaspectsofhiscondition.Wewillaccompanyhimtohisroomtodiscussitprivately.”

Nighthadsettledoverthecityastheycrossedthepatio.OncetheywereinsideJake’sroom,Tomarisagaincreatedthatshimmeringofairtosafeguardtheroom.Satisfied,heturnedtoJake.“Liedownandreleaseyourmagic,child.Wearegoingtotrytohealyounow.”

Jakecomplied,stretchingoutonthebedandlettinggoofhispower.Heimmediatelyfeltthatstrangecrawlingsensationradiatingfromthetwomen.Asbefore,thesensationsuddenlyceasedfromTomarisasheapproachedJake.

“Jonas.”Tomarissaid.“WhatIneedforyoutodoissurroundJakeandIwithyourpower,asmuchasyoucanwield.Youdonotneedtodoanything,butbepreparedformetodrawonit.Doyouunderstand?”

“Iunderstand.”Jonassaid,hisformshiningbrightlyashecalleduphispower.

“Closeyoueyesandrelax,child.”TomarissaidgentlyashesatdownnexttoJake.Hiseyestookonafar-awaylookashelaidhishandonJake’sforehead.“Now,Jonas.”

Jonassenthismagictosurroundthetwo,drawingasmuchashecouldthroughhisstaff,dazzlingtheair.Hewatchedasthetworemainedencasedin

hispower.Suddenly,theairaroundthetwoflaredintoabrilliantwhitelight,almostblindinginintensity,overwhelminghisownlight.Jonasfelthispowersuddenlyrushingthroughhim,unabletostoptheflowasitswirledaroundJakeandTomaris.Heheldon,servingasaconduitofpower,themagicsweepingthroughhimlikeariverofLight.

Asquicklyasitbegan,thelightdisappearedandthepullofhismagicstopped,leavingJonaspantingandabitlight-headed.Tomarisfellback,stumblingoffthebedandslippingontothefloor,thewallpreventinghimfromcollapsingcompletely.Jonasmovedtohimwhenhesawbloodflowingfromhisnoseandhiseyesseemedunfocused.Jonaskneltandsenthismagicintohim,soothingwavesofhealing.

Tomarisblinked,rousing,andshookhishead.“Thankyou,friendJonas.”Hesaidwearily.“IfearthatImisjudgedwhatwasneededtohealJake.”

JonaslookedovertoseeJakesitup,hishairwithoutatraceofwhite,hisbodyandcomplexionnormal.Hebreathedasighofrelief,thenreachedoverandsentaprobeofmagicintoJake,assessinghiscondition.JonaslethispowergowhenheknewthatJakewashealed.

“ThatwasnotsomethingIwanttodoagain.”Jakesaid.“Ican’treallydescribeit,butitwasn’texactlypleasant.”HeshookhisheadandlookedovertoTomaris,seeingtheblood.“Areyoualright?”Heaskedhurriedly.

“Iamfine,child.”Tomarisreplied.Hepushedhimselftohisfeet,swayingslightly.“However,Idoneedsleeptorecoverfully.”

“WewillgobacktotheTemple.”Jonassaid.“Iwillmakesurethatyouarenotdisturbed.”

TomarisnoddedandlookedbackatJake.“Doyouhaveacloakorsomethingthatcanhideyourface?”TomarisaskedJake.

“Ihavemyhoodie.”Jakereplied,confused.“Thatwillworkfortonight.”Tomarisstated.“Ifyouneedtoleavethis

room,useitandyourpower.Rememberthatyouaresupposedtobeinyourpreviouscondition.IfJonasisrightaboutthespies,thenyoumustcontinuetoactasifyouareinfirmuntilwearesafelyaway.”

“Iunderstand.”Jakesaid.“IwilltellNorlanandMadalinthatyoushouldbeleftalonetonight.”Jonas

said.“Youwillhaveachancetosaygoodbyeinthemorning.Iwillalsomakesureyouhaveahoodedcloaktomorrow.”

“Youshouldsayyourfarewellsnow.”Tomarissaidquietlytothemboth.“Youcannothaveanycontactinthemorning.Iwillwaitforyououtside,

Jonas.”Heheldontothedoorframeasheslowlydeparted,thedoorcurtainclosingbehindhim.

“Jonas,Icannotbegintothankyouforeverythingyouhavedoneforme.”Jakebegan,tryingtoclearhisthroat,feelingittighten.“Youmademefeelwelcome,setmeupwithNorlanandMadalin,andhavebeenhereformewhenIneededyou.”Hepaused,voicebreakingslightly.“Iwillneverforgetyou.”

“Iwillnotforgetyouaswell,Jake.”Jonassaid,pullingJakeintoahug.“IhavegiventhankstotheOnethatyoucametous.Inowpraythatyouwillbesuccessfulandreturnsafelytoyourhomeandfamily.”

Jakereturnedthehugforamoment,thenJonasreleasedhim.“TakecareofHailynandkeephersafe,Jake.”Jonassaidseriously,eyesshiningfromunshedtears.

“Iwilldomybest.”Jakereplied.PattingJakeontheshoulderforthelasttime,Jonasturnedandfollowed

Tomarisout.Jakesatdown,feelingthesenseoflossalready.Hewentthroughthepainof

beingseparatedfromhisfamilyandfriendswhenhearrivedandwasnowfacingthesamewithhisnewfriends.Dwellingonitisnotgoingtohelp.Hetoldhimself.Getupanddosomething.

Hestoodup,relishinghisnewstrength,grabbedhissaddlebagsandbegantopack.

CHAPTERTEN

Jakewasawake,dressedinhisarmorandsword,whenDominicstrodeintohisroom.Itwasstilldarkoutside,anhourorsobeforesunrise.Hehadnotsleptmuchthenightbefore,tossingandturningashismindracedwithimaginedpossibilitiesanddangers.Despitehisrecovery,hewasnervousasheknewthatconfrontationswiththedemonsandhalf-menlayaheadofhim.AfterthebattlewithCreatos,hefeltprettyconfidantthathehadthepowertowithstandmostdemonsone-on-one.However,itwasanearimpossibilitythattheGuardian’sswordwouldbeguardedbyonlyonedemon.HowheandHailyncouldlocateandsafelygainaccesstoittroubledhimthroughoutthenight.Hopefully,Tomariswouldhavefurtherinstructionstoassistthem.

HewasalsosomewhatanxiousabouttravelingwithHailyn.Theywereclose,buthehadneveractuallyspentthatmuchtimealonewithagirlbefore.Theywouldbeontheirown,tryingtostayoutofsightforthemostpart.Thatmeantsharingacamp,likelyasmallone,anddealingwiththeirbodilyneedsalongtheway.Hejusthopedthathewouldnotembarrasshimself.

“Areyouready,boy?”Dominicsaidashetossedacloakwithahoodtowardshim.“Jonaswasgrantedleavebythekingtohavethegateopenedtoallowustoleavebeforethesunrises.”

JakehurriedlyputthecloakonoverhisarmorasDominicpickeduphissaddlebags.“Remember,youaresupposedtobeweakened.”Hesaidasheslungthemoverhisshoulder.“Pullupthehoodandwalkslow.”Dominicturnedandleft.

Jakecalleduphismagicashepulledthehoodoverhishead,hisformshiningbrightly,bathingtheroominanazurelight.Heslowlyturned,tryingtoetchtheroomintohismemory.Ithadbeenagoodplacetostay,asclosetoahomeashewouldhavehere.Sighing,hetriedtoshrugofftheslightmelancholythatdescendedonhim,straightenedhisshouldersandwentoutside.

Lookingacrosstheyard,hesawTomaris’carriageontheothersideofthegate,lightedbythetorchesinhissoldiers’hands.Dominicwasinfrontofthecarriage,alreadyastrideShadow,speakingquietlywithDeepwood.Asheslowlymadehiswaytowardsthecarriage,hesawHailynsittingonDontas,hergazeonhim.Shewasdressedinbrownleggingsandboots,withacowledrobe,beltedatthewaist,whichonlyextendedtomid-thightoallowherlegsmorefreedomofmovement.Nexttoherwasasimilarlydressedmalecleric,who

lookedtobeinhismid-twenties,withmedium-lengthdarkhairandaneasysmileonhisface,sittingcomfortablyonachestnut-coloredhorse.

Insidethefence,nearthegate,heobservedTomarisandJonastalkingquietlywithNorlan,MadalinandCherise.Hefeltapangoflossashemadehiswaytowardsthem.Thesepeoplehadshelteredhim,caredforhim,andactedasasurrogatefamilyforhim.Nowhewasleaving,likelytoneverreturn.Hewasnotsurewhathecouldsaythatwouldadequatelyconveyhisfeelingstowardsthem.

Makingsurethathisfacewasasdeepinthecowlaspossible,hestoppednexttothem.HecouldseethetearsinMadalinandCherise’seyes,holdingeachother’shand.NorlanwasstandingnexttoMadalin,hisarmaroundhershoulders,tryingtobestoic,eyesdry,butJakeknewthatwasanact.

“Goodmorning,Jake.”Jonassaidwithanodofhishead.“IwishthatIcoulddomoreforyou,butIbelievethatTomarisisthepersonbestabletofigureouthowtohelpyou.”

“Iknowthat,Jonas.”Jakereplied,goingalongwiththedeception.“YouhavedonemoreformethanIdeserve.”

“Ithasbeenmyhonortodoso,Jake.”Jonassaid.Heraisedhishandandspokeagain,voicegentlewithanundercurrentofsuppressedemotion.“Wemustnowsayfarewell.MaytheblessingsoftheOnegowithyou,Jake,andmayHegrantyouawayhome.”

“Thankyou.”Jakeresponded.Jaketurnedtothefamily,feelinghisthroatgoingtight.Norlancameupto

himandpulledhimintoanalmostcrushingembrace.“Iwillmissyou,Jake.”Hesaidinatightwhisper.“Ialsohopeyoufindawayhome,butifnot,returnhere,forthisisyourhomeaswell.”Afteranotherfewmoments,Norlanreleasedhim.

Madalinthrewherarmsaroundhim,pullinghimclose.“Ourlovegoeswithyou,Jake.”Shesaid,voicecracking.“Staysafeandwriteifyoucan.Donotforgetus.”

“Never,Madalin.”Jakesaidsoftly.“Iwillneverforgetwhatyouhavedoneforme.IonlywishIhadawaytorepayyourkindness.”

“Nopaymentwilleverbenecessary,Jake.”Madalinsaidassheleanedinandkissedhischeek.Jakekepthisheaddown,hopingthatshewouldnotnoticehistruecondition.

OnceMadalinletgo,Cherisecameinandhuggedhim,cryingsoftly.“Iwishyoucouldstay.”Shesobbed.“Ifeelbetter,safer,whenyouarehere.”

“IwishIcould.”Jakesaid,hugginghertightly.Amidhisroilingemotions,athoughtoccurredtohim.“Ifyoueverneedsomeonetoprotectyou,askforMarcusandtellhimIsaidthatheshouldwatchoveryou.Iamsurehewill.”Jakefelthernod.

“I’llmissyou.”Cherisesaidbrokenly,releasinghim,thenturnedandthrewherselfintohermother’sarms,weeping.

Beforehisemotionsgotthebestofhim,heturnedtoTomaris.“I’mreadyifyouare.”Hesaid,voicecatchinginhisthroat.

“Yes,child.Weshouldgetstarted.”Tomarissaid,thenturnedtothefamily.“Allayyourworries.IwilldoeverythingIcantoprotectandassistJake.”Hesaidcompassionately.“Donotfearforhissafetywhileheiswithme.”Norlangaveastiffnodofhishead,whileholdingontohiswifeanddaughter.

“Joinmeinthecarriage,Jake.”Tomarissaidasheheadedforthegate,Jonasathisside.“Itistime.”

Withonelastlonggazeatthefamily,JaketurnedandfollowedTomaris.HewaitedwhileJonashelpedTomarisintothecarriage,thenmadetofollow.Ashegrabbedthehandletopullhimselfintothecarriage,thesoundofhorsesapproachingmadehimpause.HewassurprisedtoseeMarcusrideup,flankedbytwomeninRoyalGuardarmor.Marcusdismountedandapproachedhim.

“Ijustheardthatyouaredeparting.”HesaidashestoppedinfrontofJake.“Iwishedtosayfarewell.”

“Thankyou,Marcus.”Jakesaid.HeglancedoveratCherise.“Willyoudomeafavor?”

“Justask.”Marcusreplied.“WatchoverNorlanandhisfamilyforme,especiallyCherise.”Jakesaid

quietly.“Theyhavebeenthroughalotbecauseofme.IwillfeelbetterifIknowyouareprotectingthem.”

“Itwillbemyhonor,Jake.NothingwillharmthemwhileIlive.”Marcusanswered.Hepaused.“Doyounotplantoreturn?”

“Idon’tknowwhatwillhappen.”Jakesaidtruthfully.“IhavetoassumethatIwillnot.”

“Itisbettertoexpecttheworse.”Marcusagreed.“Alwayskeepthatinmindwhileyouareontheroad.”Heheldouthishand.“Mayyourjourneybesuccessful.”

Jaketookit.“I’mgladwebecamefriends,oratleastnotenemies.”Marcusnodded,lookingatJake’sface.Jakesawhiseyeswidenslightlyand

hisgripbecomefirmer,pullingJakeabitcloser.Hesawandnowheknows.Jakethought,dismayed.

Jakeleanedclose.“Youcannottellanyone,Marcus.NotKeriaorevenNorlan.”Hewhisperedurgently.“OnlyJonasknows.”

“Iwillkeepyoursecret,Jake.”Marcussaidquicklyandquietly.“Itakeitthatyouhaveotherplansthanwhatwasannounced?”

“Yes.”Jakeresponded,glancingaround.“Ican’tsayanythingmore.”“Fairenough.”Marcussaid.“Mayyoufindsuccessinyourquest,whatever

thatmaybe.”HereleasedJake’shand.“DonotworryaboutNorlanandhisfamily.Iwillkeepthemsafe.”

“Thanks,Marcus.”Jakesaid.Marcusturnedandheadedbacktohishorse.Oncehewasbackinthe

saddle,hegaveJakeafinalsalute,andthenheandhiscompanionsrodeoff.JakemotionedJonasover.

“Whatisit?”Jonasaskedsoftly.“MarcussawmyfaceandknowsthatI’mnotgoingtobehealed.”Jake

said.“Hepromisedtokeepitsecret.”Jonasmulleditover.“Iwillmakesureofthat.”Hesaidfirmlyand

resolutely.“Itrusthim.”Jakestatedquickly.“Hewillkeephispromise.”“Ofcourse.”Jonassaidabsently.HemotionedforJaketoclimbintothe

carriage.“Youneedtobeoff.”Nodding,Jakeclimbedintothecarriage.WithafinalwavetoJonasandthe

familythroughthewindow,JaketurnedaheadandthequestfortheGuardian’sswordbegan.

…Thepartyrodethroughouttheday,onlystoppingbrieflytofeedandwater

thehorses.LikeDominicandhehaddone,theystoppedattheNorthReachwaystationasthesunwassetting.Therideinthecarriagehadbeenquietforthemostpart,withJake’sthoughtsonthosebackinSanduasandTomarissittingtheresilent,hiseyesclosed,seeminglycontenttowaitforJake.

Atthewaystation,Jakewasforcedtoplaytheinvalidagain,shininginpowerwhilekeepinghishoodup.Hemadeashowofit,makinghiswayslowlythroughthedininghalltotheroomhewassharingwithDominic.Dominicbroughthimhisdinner,thenwentbacktojointherestinthehall.Jakeateinsilence,anxiousnowtobeonhisway,sohecouldbefreeofthismasquerade.

Hewaslyingonhisbed,histhoughtsfocusedonwhatwascoming,when

Dominicreturned.Hesatupwhenthedooropened,thensankbackdownwhenhesawitwasDominic.

“What’sonyourmind,boy?”Dominicasked,seeingthelookofconcernonJake’sface.

“I’mjustthinkingaboutwhatIhavetodo.Idon’twanttoscrewup.”Jakereplied.HelookedupatDominic.“I’malsoalittlescared,tobehonest.”

“Thatisgoodtohear.”Dominicsaid.“Ifyouwerenotafraid,Iwouldbeworried.”Hesatdownonhisbed.“Controlthatfear,butkeepitinthebackofyourmind;itwillmakeyoucautious.Whenyouconfrontobstaclesinyourjourney,justrememberyourlessonsandreactaccordingly.”

“But,whatif-.“Jakebegan,butDominiccuthimoff.“Leaveoverthe‘whatifs’,boy.”Hesaid.“Thinkingonitdoesnogood.

Whatwillhappen,willhappen.Yousimplyneedtostayfocusedandbepreparedtodealwithwhatcomes.”

“That’seasyforyoutosay.”Jakeretorted.“Youhavealotmoreexperiencewithstufflikethis.”

“AndhowdidIgainthatexperience?”Dominicaskedrhetorically.“Bytrialanderror,likeallgoodlessons.Youlearnedfromthebruisesonhowtoproperlydefendyourselfwithasword.Youfaceddemonswithyourpower,despiteyourfear,learninghowtofightthem.Youwilllearnyourwaythroughthisaswell.”Hesnorted.“Also,youhavethegirltokeepyououtoftrouble.”

“Doyouthinkwehaveachance?”Jakeaskedquietly.“Tomarisbelievesittobesoand,sofar,Ihavebeengivennoreasonto

doubthisjudgment.”Dominicreplied.“Thereisdangerahead,evengreatdanger,buttherewardmaybeawayforyoutoreturnhome.Onlyyoucandecidewhatyouwillrisktoaccomplishthat.”

“IjustwishIhadabetterideaofwhattoexpect.”Jakesaid.“Then,whenweareontheroad,askTomarisifhehasanythingmoretosay

otherthanwhathehastoldus.”Dominicresponded.“I’msurehewillhavesomeadviceforyou.”Heleanedovertoblowoutthecandles.“Now,getsomesleep.”

Astheycontinuedtheirjourneythenextday,JakedecidedtofollowDominic’sadvice.HeaskedTomarisifhecouldtellhimanythingelsemoreonwhathehadplanned.

“Whenwecampnearthecrossroadstonight,youwilltradeplaceswiththeyoungcleric.”HetoldJake,eyesknowingandsympathetic.“Inthemorning,you,dressedasacleric,andHailynwillcontinuenorthtowardsBeragan.Jonas

hasprovidedaletterofintroductiontotheChiefClericofBeraganthatwillgiveyoupassagetoDunanty,thecapitalofBeragan.”Hereachedintohisrobesandpulledoutasmallpieceofparchment,handingittoJake.Jaketookitandsawseveralrunesonthepaper.Confused,helookedoveratTomaris.

“Whenyoureachthecapital,youshouldasktheChiefClericifhecandecipherthoserunes.”Tomariscontinued.“Iwasonlyabletoacquirethemrecently.WhatIknowisthattheyarefromancientBeragan.Withouthavingtheirkey,though,Ihavenotbeenabletointerpretthem.”Hepaused.“However,Ibelievethattheyrefertoapossiblelocationofthesword.”

“Ifyoucan’tinterpretthem,whydoyouthinktheChiefClericcan?”Jakeasked.

“WhileIhaveanextensivelibrary,Idon’tknoweverything,child.”Tomarissaidwithalaugh.“ItispossiblethattheclericsofBeraganwillknowwhattherunesmean.Thatwillsavetimethatwecannotspendseekingthekey.”

“Afterwegetthere?”Jakeasked.“Whatthen?”“Youwillneedtofollowthecluesasyoufindthem.”Tomarisreplied.

“Youwillhavetothinkyourwaythroughthisand,sometimes,simplyfollowyourinstincts.IfIknewmore,Iwouldtellyou.IwouldnotriskyouifIknewwheretheswordislocated.Iwouldsimplyhavesentalargepartyofclericsandsoldierstorecoverit,trustinginthemtogettherebeforethedemonscouldmoveit.”

“Iamanoldman,Jake.”Tomariscontinued.“WhileIstillhavemypower,mybodyisfading;Icannotdothisquestmyself.IfIcould,IwouldleaveyouinthesafetyoftheKeepandgomyself.”Hesighedbitterly.“Asitis,sinceIcannotgo,someonemust.Ibelievethatyouhavethepowerandintelligencetoaccomplishit.Otherwise,Iwouldnothavesuggestedit.Youhavestoodagainstademonlordandsurvived;thatisnosmallthing.”

“Ihadhelp.”Jakestated.“Andyouhavehelpnow.”Tomarisresponded.“Youandthegirlcanmatch

mostdemonsnowandyourpowerisnotreacheditslimit.Whenyouheldit,ItriedtodetermineiftherewasanychangesinceyoulefttheKeep.Ibelievethatithasgrownstronger.”

“Well,Iguessthatisonethinginmyfavor.”Jakemuttered.“Beatpeace,Jake.”Tomarissaidsoothingly.“IbelievethattheCreatorhas

broughtyouhereandHewouldnothavedonethatiftherewasnotmoretoyouthanyoubelieve.”

Whentheystoppedforthenight,movingofftheroadandontothegrassy

plains,andsetupcamp,Taric,themalecleric,cameovertothecarriage.WhenheandJakeweretradingclothes,Jakewassurprisedtoseethathewaswearingchainmailunderhisrobes.Heaskedhimaboutit.

“Manyclericswhoserveinthearmyweararmor.”Taricsaidwithawinkandalaugh.“Secretly,ofcourse;wearenotsoldiers.WhilesomepuristsstatethatweshouldtrustintheOneforourprotection,IbelievethatHegaveustheabilitytoshapemetalforjustthispurpose.ItwouldseemtobeaninsulttoHimtonottakeadvantageofHisgifts.”

Jakechuckledatthatwhilehepulledtherobesoverhisownarmor.…

Hailynwassittingnearherblankets,stretchinghersoremuscles,whenTomarisappeared.Hehadmovedsoquietlythatshejumpedabit,startledwhenhespoke.

“I’msorry,child.”Hesaidwithasmallsmile.“Ididnotmeantofrightenyou.”

“Youdidnotfrightenme,MasterTomaris.”Sheresponded.“Yousimplycaughtmeoffguard.”

“MayIjoinyou?”Heasked.“Ofcourse.”Hailynreplied.Tomarisslowlysettledtotheground,sittingacrossfromher.Helookedat

herforseveralmoments,hisunusualeyesseemingtoseeinsideher.Shetookadeepbreathandstaredback,tryingtoachieveacleric’scalm.Thatseemedtoimpresshim,forhesmileddeeplyandnoddedhishead.

“Youhavestrengthinyou,child.”Hesaidapprovingly.Hissmilefaded.“Youwillneedthatstrengthonthisquest.”Hereachedintoapouchonhisbeltandremovedasilveryobject.WhenHailynlookedclosely,shesawthatitwasabracelet,itssurfacecoveredinrunes.Withastart,sherecognizedtherunesasthesameonesonJonas’staff.ShelookedatTomaris,thequestioninhereyes.

“Yes,child.”Hereplied,turningthebraceletoverinhishand.“Therunesarethesame.IcopiedtheseruneswhenIwascreatingthestaffthatIgavetoJonas.”

Hiseyestookonafarawaylook.“WhenIwasmuchyounger,Isoughtoutallthingsrelatedtopower.Ihadtheideathat,ifIfoundoldandancientartifactsormanuscripts,Icouldusethemtoincreasemyownknowledgeandpower.”

Heshookhishead.“ItwasduringoneofmyqueststhatIfoundthis.Itwasinacave,deepintheGrayRidges,onethatIbelievedArneslivedin.Isearchedit,spendingdaystracingitspassages,withoutfindinganyevidencetosupport

mytheory.Infrustration,Ikickedatastone.Whenitrolledaway,Isawthattherewasasmallopeningunderit.Whensomethingglitteredbackinmytorchlight,Ireachedinandpulledthisout.”

“Itookitwithmetostudy.”Hecontinued.“WhenIworeit,itwouldincreasemypower.Idonotunderstandhowitwasdone,thoughIhaveatheory.Overtime,though,Ibegantowearitlessandless.Ieventuallyputitawaywithmyothercollectionsasnewitemscaughtmyattention.ItwasonlywhenJonascametomedidIrecallit.Iwantedtohelphim,butIwasloathtopartwithit,soIcreatedthestaff,copyingtherunesonthebracelet.Tomysurprise,itseemedtohaveagreatereffectonacleric’spowerthanmyown.”

Hehelditouttoher.“Iwantyoutotakeit.ItmaynotbeaspowerfulasJonas’staff,butitcangiveyoutheincreaseinpoweryouwillneed.”

“Icannottakeit,MasterTomaris.”Hailynsaid.“Yousaidyourselfthatyoudonotwishtopartwithit.”

“Iamoldernow,child,andmytimewillsoonbefinished.”Hesaidwithasadsmile.“Youaregoingtofindanobjectofgreatpower.Knowingitspower,ourenemieswillhavesomeoftheirstrongestguardingit.Youwillneedallofthepoweryoucanwield.”Heplaceditinherhand.“Helpanoldmanfeellikehehasdoneallhecantoassistyou;pleasetakeit.”

Hailynturneditoverinherhand,startledtofeelsoftwarmthradiatingoffit.Shepulleditoverherrighthand,butrealizedthatitwastoobigtostayonherwrist.Shewasstartingtopullitoffwhenitseemedtoshrink,formingitselftoherwrist.Shetuggedatitanditcameoffeasily.Fascinated,sheslippeditbackonandshookherhand.Despitetheshaking,itstayedinplace.

Shecalledupherpower,feelingitsurgeintoher,heraurasuddenlyshiningbrilliantly,similartowhenshehadheldthestaff.ShelookedoverwonderinglyatTomaris,whowasslowlyrisingtohisfeet.

“Whatisit?”Sheasked.“Youmustkeepitsecret,child.”Hesaidquietly,lookingapprovinglydown

ather.Heglancedaroundtomakesurenoonewasnear.“Afterallofmyresearch,IhavecometobelievethatitisapieceoftheGuardian’sarmor,madebytheCreatorHimself.”

…Earlythenextmorning,withthesunstillbehindtheGrayRidges,theparty

brokecamp.Therewasacoolbreezeblowing,theskyoverheadcloudyandgray.Pullingtheclericrobesoverhishead,Jakehopedthattherewouldbenorain.Hekneltandrolleduphissword,vambracesandgreavesintohissleeping

blankets.Dominichadpointedoutthathisswordmightdrawattention,sinceclericsdidnotcarrythem.

“TheroadtoDunantyisfairlysafeasitispatrolledbyBeragansoldiers.”Dominichadsaid.“Stayontheroad;rememberthatyouareaclericnow.Keepyourswordhiddenuntilyouhaveleftthecity.”

Oncehehadpackeduphisgear,heheadedovertothehorses.Whenhegottowherethehorsesweretiedup,hesawthatHailynwasalreadymountedonTaric’shorse.

“IthoughtyouwereridingDontas.”Hestated.“Thatwastogethimoutofthecityforyou,Jake.”Shereplied.“Sinceyou

aresupposedtobeonyourwaytotheKeep,itisunlikelythatanyonewouldlooktwiceatthehorse.”

“Isee.”JakesaidashewentovertowhereDontaswastiedupnexttoShadow.Thehorsegreetedhimwithasoftwhinnyandagentlepushofitshead.Jakestrokedthehorse’sheadforafewmoments,thennoticedthatbothDontasandShadowwherealreadysaddled.

“Iwasupearly,soIsaddledhimforyou.”Dominic’svoicecamefrombehindhim.JaketurnedtoseeDominicapproachingwithhissaddlebagsoverhisshoulder.DominicstoppedinfrontofJake,lookingdownathim,eyeshard.

“Ihaveonemorelessonforyou.”Hesaidsoftly,thoughhiseyesseemedtogleamlikeblueice.“Onthisjourney,youmusthardenyourheartandbepreparedatalltimestodefendyourselfandthegirl.Ifyoufaceanopponent,youmuststrikehardandfast,aimingtokillasquicklyaspossible.Ifyouthinkthereisadanger,attackfirst.Thereisnoplaceforchivalryonthismission.”

“Iwillrememberthat,Dominic.”Jakesaid.Herealizedthatthismightbethelasttimehewillseehisprotector.Hefeltatightnessinhisthroatandchest.Heclearedhisthroat.“Ican’tthankyouenoughforeverythingyouhavedoneforme.”

“Itwasmyhonor,Jake.”Dominicsaiddirectly.Heheldouthishand.Jaketookit,buthisemotionsmadehimgaveDominicaquickhug.Dominic

seemedtakenabackbythat,butJakefelthimpathimonthebackbeforepushinghimaway.

“Enoughofthat,boy.WestillhavetorecovertheswordandbringittoTomaris,sowemaynotbedonewitheachotheryet.”Dominicsaidgruffly.HeincreasedhisgriponJake’shand.“RememberwhatIhavetaughtyou.Bepreparedtoact,butfollowthegirl’slead.Sheknowsmoreabouttheworldthanyou.”Withthat,hereleasedJake’shandandmovedovertoShadow.

Jaketiedoffhisblanketsbehindhissaddleandmountedhishorse.HerodeovertoHailyn,whereshewasspeakingquietlytoTomaris.

“Nowyoudepartonthisgreatquest,mychildren.”Tomarissaidseriously.“Stayhiddenasmuchaspossible.Followwherethecluesleadyou.Recoverthesword,ifyoucan,andreturndirectlytotheKeep.Rememberthatifthedemonsknowthatweareafterthesword,theywillmoveit.Therewillbenosecondchancetorecoverit.”

Hecontinued.“Ifyoucannotfindtheswordafterexhaustingallpossibilities,returntotheKeep.ItmaybethatDominicwassuccessful.”

“Onefinalword.”Tomarissaid,hisfacesoftening.“Trustandcareforeachother.Friendshipandlovearethetwothingsthatthedemonscanneverhave.Thatiswhatmakesusstrongerthanthem.”

“Gonow.”Hefinished,givingthemabow.“HoldontoyourcourageandpowerandmaytheCreatorgrantyousuccess.”

SharingalookandanodwithHailyn,JakedirectedDontastowardstheroad.Withafinalglanceback,JakesawDominic,sittingonShadow,givehimaformalsalute.Jakereturnedit,andthenturnedforward.TappingDontaswithhisheels,heandHailynrodeaway.

CHAPTERELEVEN

Alongwoodenlever,paintedbrightwhiteandtiltedabovetheroad,wastheonlyindicatorthattheyhadarrivedattheborder.Theopenplains,coveredintallgreengrassthatgentlyrippledlikewavesontheoceaninthebreeze,seemedtostretchforeverinalldirections.Jakewasgratefulforthewindasittamedthewarmthofthelateafternoonsun.Hehadonhisshirt,paddingandarmor,coverbytheclericrobes,whichmadehimsweatprofusely,soanyreliefwaswelcome.

JakeandHailynhadbeenridingnorthalongtheroadsincetheydepartedfromcamp.Northofthecrossroads,theroadhadtransitionedtoawidehard-packeddirtroad.Theyhadpassedtravelersandmerchantsgoinginbothdirections.Mostdidnotlooktwiceattwoclericsridingtogether,thoughsomehadstoppedandaskedforhelp,mostlyforminorinjuriesorsickness.JakeallowedHailyntotaketheleadinthesesituations,simplysittingonhishorse,smilingandnoddingwhilesheperformedhealings.

Thereweretwotentssetupnearthepole,oneoneachsideoftheborder.JakesawhorsestiedupneartheclosesttentwithSanduansoldiersinarmor,theirbackstothetrafficmovingnorth,manningtheborderarea.Ontheothersideofthegate,hesawsoldiersdressedinbrownleatherclothingandboots,coveredinchainmailthatextendeddowntomid-thigh.Theycarriedcurvedswordsbeltedonatthewaist,withpointedmetalhelmsontheirheads.TheywererandomlystoppingandquestioningtravelersheadingintoBeragan.Therewerealsohorsestiedupneartheirtent.

SomeoftheSanduansoldierscalledoutgreetingstoJakeandHailynastheypassed.WhentheyenteredBeragan,asoldierstoppedthem.Hewastallandthin,withanangularface,longbrownhairandbrowneyes.Hehadasinglesilverslashpaintedacrosshisarmor,runningfromhisleftshoulderdowntohisrightwaist.

“Whereareyoutraveling,clerics?”Heaskeddirectly,butpolitely.“WebringamessagetotheChiefClericofBeraganfromtheChiefClericof

Sanduas.”Hailynannounced,pullingouttheletterwithJonas’seal.Thesoldierlookedcloselyattheseal,thenlookedbackatHailyn.“Have

youbeentoDunantybefore?”Heasked.“No.Thisisourfirsttime.”Shereplied.Henoddedandmotionedtoacoupleofsoldierssittingonhorsesnearby.

Onehadtwothingreenslashesonhisarmor,whiletheotherworeplainarmor.

“Ihaveacoupleofsoldiersreadytoreturntothecapital,Sister.”Hesaid.“Itwouldbetheirprivilegetoescortyouthere.Theywillensurethatyouarrivesafelyandwithoutincident,ashonoredguests.”

Hailyn,herfaceserene,thankedhim.“Thatismostkind,myfriend.”Shesaid.“MaytheblessingsoftheOnebewithyou.”

Thesoldiernodded,andthenmotionedthemtocontinueon.Astheyrodeforward,thetwosoldersformedupnexttothem.Theonewith

thegreenslashesrodenexttoHailyn.Hewasanolderman,withastoutbuild,thickdarkhairandagoateeonhislongface,thoughhisdarkeyeshadaworld-wearinessinthem.TheonethatrodenexttoJakewasonlyalittleolderthanhewas,shortandwiry,withshortdarkhairandashavenface.Hesatinthesaddlestiffly,hisbackramrodstraight,affectinganairofcompetenceandsoberness.

“IamSergeantHersel,Sister.”TheonenearestHailynsaid,withanodofhishead.“MycompanionisMescal.Ifyouwish,wewillreachasmallvillagewithaninnnearnightfallandstaythenightthere.”

“Thatsoundsfine,SergeantHersel.”Shereplied.“HowlongistheridetoDunanty?”

“Atapacethatwillnottirethehorses,weshouldarrivebytheafternoontwodaysfromnow.”Hestated.“IwillnowtaketheleadwhileMescalwillguardtherear.”Withthat,hebootedhishorseseveralpacesaheadwhileMescaldroppedbackseveralpaces.

“Whatdoyouthinkaboutthis?”JakewhisperedtoHailyn.“Itseemsstrangethatwewouldneedanescortwhenothertravelersdon’tgetone.”

“TheclericsinBeragandonothavethesamefreedomofactionaswedoinSanduas.”Hailynrespondedsoftly.“Theclericsherefallundertheauthorityoftheirqueen.Shehasthefinalwordonwhattheycanorcannotdoandwheretheycango.Likely,anyoutsideclericswouldreceiveanescortlikethis,sotheycanbewatched.”ShenoddedtowardsHersel.“WeneedtobecautiousonwhatwesayuntilwereachtheChiefCleric.”

AsHerselhadsaid,nightwasdescendingovertheplainswhentheyreachedthevillage.Theroadintersectedthevillage,withwoodenbuildingsbuildoneitherside.Theroadhadbeenpavedwithstoneinthevillage.Theyrodethroughslowly,asthereseemedtobeaconstantflowofpeoplecrossingtheroad,headingtovariousbuildings.Theyfinallystoppedwhentheywerealmosttothefarsideofthevillage,pullinguptoathree-storywoodenbuilding.Therewasbrightcandlelightstreamingfromthefirst-floorwindowsandthebuzzofvoicesandmusiccomingfromtheopenfrontdoors.

“Mescalwilltakeyourhorsestothestables.”Herselsaidashedismountedandindicatedthattheyshoulddothesame.“Takeyoursleepingrollsandsaddlebagswithyou.”

Oncetheyhadretrievedtheirgear,HerselledthemintotheinnwhileMescalleftwiththehorses.Onceinsidethemainhall,Jakewasoverwhelmedwithlight,noiseandthesmellsofcookingfood.Lookingaround,hewassurprisedbythenumberofpeopleintheinn.Allofthetableswerefull,withservinggirlscarryinglargetraysoffoodortankardsofale,carefullynavigatingtheirwaythroughthecrowd.HeandHailynfollowedHerselovertoalargeman,tallthoughabitfat,withdarkhairsurroundinghisbaldplate,dressedinanlongclothapron.Hewasstandingnearalargedoorthatledtothekitchen,withtheservinggirlsgoinginandout.Hisbrowneyesmovingquicklyfromsidetoside,heseemedtobetryingtowatcheveryoneatonce.

“Greetings,Kelsan.”Herselsaidwhenhestoppedinfrontoftheman.HegesturedtoindicateHailynandJake“Ineedroomstonightformyguests,aswellasformyselfandanothersoldier.”

“Ionlyhaveoneroomleft.”Kelsanreplied,continuingtoscanthehall.“Itissmallwithtwobeds.Thereisalsoroominthestables.”

Herselconsideredthesituation.“Iwillallowmygueststotaketheroom.”Hefinallysaid.“MescalandIwillsleepinthestable.Foodwillneedtobesenttotheirroomandthestables.”

“Twogold.”Kelsansaid,lookingatHerselforthefirsttimeandholdingouthishand.

“DoIlooklikeacountryloutwhohasneverleftthefarmbefore?”Herselrepliedsarcastically.“Onegold.”

Kelsanlaughed,arich,throatylaugh,andcockedaneyebrow.“Youdohavethelookofsomeonewhocan’tremembertowipethemanureoffhisfeet.”Heretorted.Hiseyestookonapredatorygleam.“DoIappeartobeasimpletonimpressedwithyourarmorandsword?Twogoldoryoucansleepinthestreet.”

AsmallsmilecreasedHersel’sfaceasheandKelsanbegantonegotiatewhiletradinginsults.Jakewatchedwithacertainamusementasthetwohaggled.Atfirst,basedonthepersonalnatureofthejibes,hewassurethattheywouldbesleepingoutside,butafterHerseldeliveredaparticularlynastyonerelatedtoKelsan’sparentage,theinnkeeperletoutahowlofdelight.

“Thatonewasworthagold!”Kelsanroared,startlingthenearbypatrons.“Onegoldfortheroomandmeals.”Hestuckouthishand.

Herselshookit,paidKelsanandturnedtoJakeandHailyn.“Iwillcomeand

wakeyoubeforefirstlight.”Hesaid.“PleasefollowKelsantoyourroom.Foodwillbebroughttoyou.Iwillaskthatyouremaintheretonight.”

“Thatisfine,SergeantHersel.”Hailynresponded.“Untilthemorning.”Herselsaid,noddingtoKelsanandgoingthroughthe

kitchendoors.“Followme,Sister.Brother.”Kelsansaid.Heledthemthroughthe

crowdedroomtoaflightofstairsleadingtotheupperlevels.Theywentdownacrampedhallway,withseverallanternslightingthehallway.Thewoodenfloorcreakedastheymadetheirwaytoadoorattheendofthehall.

Kelsanproducedakey,unlockingthedoorandsteppingaside.Inthecrampedroom,thereweretwosinglebeds,separatedbyasmalltableagainstthefarwallwithasinglelanternonit.Abovethetable,asmallwindowwasopen,allowinginbothfreshairandthenoisefromtheroadbelow.JakefollowedHailynintotheroom,throwinghisstuffononeofthebeds.

“Herselisagoodman.”Kelsansaidfromthedoorway.Theyturnedtolookathim.“Hemaybeabitofapainwhenitcomestorules,butthatisprobablythemilitarytraining.Youcanrestassuredthathewilltreatyouproperlyandgetyoutowhereyouaregoing.”

“Fromsomeofyourinsults,Iwouldnothavebelievedthatyouthoughtsohighlyofhim.”Hailynsaid.

“Ohthat.”Kelsansaidwithachuckle.“Donottroubleyourself,Sister.HerselandIareoldfriends.Icannotjustgivehimwhathewants;hehastoearnit.Theinsultsareourwayofsettlingwhowins.Iwillhaveyourfoodbroughtup.”Hesaidasheclosedthedoor.

“Whatdoyouthinkwillhappenwhenwegettothecapital?”Jakeaskedashesatdownonhisbed.“Itisgoingtobedifficulttodowhatweneedtodoifwehaveanescortwithusallthetime.”

“JonastoldmethathisletterexplainsthatwearelookingforinformationthatcanbenefitallclericsandhewillshareitwithBrotherKal,theChiefClericofBeragan,ifwearesuccessful.”Hailynsaidquietly.“HehasrequestedthatKalfindawayforustotravelwithoutmilitaryescort,toensurethattheclericswillmaintaincontroloftheinformation.WewillhavetoseeiftheChiefClerichasthepowerorinfluencetodothis.”

“Ifhecan’t?”Jakeasked.“Wewillhavetoworkwithwhatwegiven.”Hailynstated.“Jonasbelieves

thatKalhasmoreinfluencewiththequeenthanisgenerallyknown.Wehavetohopethatisthecase.”

Aknockonthedoorinterruptedtheconversation.Jakeopenedthedoortorevealaservinggirlontheotherside,bringingthematrayoffoodandwater.Settingthetraydownonabed,shetoldthemthatshewouldreturntoretrievetheemptyplates.Sheclosedthedooronthewayout.

AfterJakeandHailynfinishedeatingandthegirlreturnedtotakeawaythetray,Hailynsaid.“Weshouldgetsomesleepsincewewillberisingbeforethedawn.”Sheclosedthesmallcurtainoverthewindowandleanedoverandblewoutthelantern,plungingtheroomintodarkness.

JakecouldheartherustlingofclothingasHailynremovedherrobesandclimbedintoherbed.Heflushedatthethoughtofherundressing.Hequicklystripeddowntohispantsandshirtandslippedintohisbed.Heshiftedontohisside,facingHailyn.Hiseyeshadadjustedtothedarknessand,withasliveroflightmakingitswaypastthecurtain,hecouldmakeoutHailyn’seyeslookingovertowardshim.

“Goodnight,Jake.”Shesaidsoftly.“Goodnight,Hailyn.”Hereplied.Hewatchedashereyesclosed,justmakingoutaslightsmileonherface.

Jakegazedatherforwhile,watchingherdriftoffintosleep,thenturnedover.Hefeltalittleoddandunsureofhimself,beingthisclosetoherastheyslept.Hewrestledwiththosefeelingsuntilsleepfinallytookhim.

…AsHerselhadpromised,theyapproachedthecityofDunantyinthelate

afternoonofthethirdday.AfterleavingKelsan’sinnbeforedawn,theyhadriddenallday,arrivingatanothervillageandinnneardark,stayingthere,andthencontinuedonthenextmorning.

Theweatherhadturnedlesspleasantthesecondnight,withastrong,coldwindblowingfromthenorth.Graycloudshadgatheredoverhead,occasionallysprinklingthemwithdropsofrain.Jakewasnowgratefulforallofthelayershewaswearing.

Inthehazylight,withthesunhiddenbytheclouds,thecityseemedtoriseoutoftheplainslikeasolitaryhill.Ithadroughstonewalls,unlikethesmoothwallsofSanduas,whichsurroundedthecityinacircle.Astheygotcloser,Jakecouldmakeoutthedefensivecutoutsalongtopofthewall.Therewasaflowoftravelersenteringandleavingthroughthemaingates.Theheavymetal-bandedwoodengatedoorswereswungopen,theentrancemannedbyseveralsoldiers,whowerewatchingthepeoplecomingandgoing.

Herselrodeconfidentlythroughthegates,theguardssalutinghimashe

passed.Thehorses’hoovesseemedtoringastheytransitionedfromthedirtroadtothepavedstreetsofthecity.Onceinsidethewalls,Jakesawthatthebuildingsinthecityweremostlymadeofwood,withsomestonebuildingsrandomlyinterspersed.Jakenoticedthecuriouslooksthatthepeopleonthestreetsgavethemastheyrodepast.Theycontinuedontowardsthesquatcastlethatwasbuiltonasmallhillinthecity’scenter.

Thecastlewasbuiltentirelyofstone,withthesamerough-cutfeaturesofthemainwalls.Jakesawsoldierspatrollingalongthewalls.Largemetalbrazierstoppedthemaingate,withseveralsoldiersonhorseback,aswellasonfoot,standingguard.Longgreenbannershungoneithersideofthegates.

Herselrodeuptoasoldiersittingonahorsewithasinglegoldenslashpaintedacrosshisarmorandsaluted.Themansatstifflyinthesaddle,hisfaceneutral,handrestingonhissword,watchingtheothersoldiers.Hisarmorwasspotlessandhisdarkhairandmustacheneatlytrimmed.Themanradiatedanairofself-importance.“Greetings,Captain.”Herselsaidpolitely.“IsChiefClericKalinthecastle?”

Theofficerlazilyreturnedthesalute.“KalisattheTemple.”HesaidashetookinJakeandHailynsittingbehindHersel.“Whatbusinessdoyouhave?”

“ThesetwoclericsbringamessagefortheChiefClericfromtheChiefClericofSanduas.”Herselrepliedashegesturedbehindhim.

“Whatareyournames,clerics?”Theofficerdemanded.“Yourvisitwillneedtobereportedtothequeen.”

“IamHailynandthisisTaric,Captain.”Hailynsaidsmoothly.“MaytheblessingsoftheOnebeonyouandyourqueen.”

“Thankyou,Sister.”Theofficerreplied,thoughhedidnotsoundappreciative.HemotionedtoHersel.“EscortthemtotheTemple,Sergeant.”

Herselsaluted,thenturnedhishorseawayfromthegate.Theyrodethroughthecityforawhile,passingshops,innsandtaverns,finallyarrivingatalargewoodenbuilding.Thebuildingwaslocatedinapark-likesetting,withgreengrassandtallpinetreessurroundingthebuilding.Theedgeofthestreetcurvedtowardsthebuildingtomakealargepavedareaalongthesidenearthestreet.Thebuildingitselfwaslongandwide,standingaroundtwostoriestall,madefromlargelogs.Asetoflargewoodendoorsstoodastheentranceneartherearofthebuilding.

Jakesawmenandwomenmovingaboutthegroundsindarkgreenrobes,whopointedandwhisperedtogetherwhentheynoticedhimandHailyn.Healsosawafewindarkgreenpantsandbrownboots,wearingarmorandasword,

withagreenhoodlyingagainsttheirbacks.HelookedovertoHailyn,whoshrugged.

“SergeantHersel,wearenewhere.”Shesaidpolitely.“Whoarethemenandwomeninarmor?Dotheclericshavetheirownguards?”

“Thosearethefightingclerics,Sister.”Hereplied.“Theyaretrainedincombatandoftentravelalonetoremotevillages,bringingtheWordandengagingthedemonsandtheirfollowers.”

Theystoppednearthemaindoorsanddismounted.Herselbeckonedaclericover.Thewomanlookedtobeinherearlythirties,shortandslight,withherlongbrownhairhangingloose.ShehadacuriouslookonherplainfaceasshestaredatJakeandHailyn.

“Sister,theseareclericsfromSanduasbearingamessagetoChiefClericKal.”Herselexplained.“MayIleavetheminyourcare?”

“Ofcourse,Sergeant.”Shereplied.“IwillescortthemtoBrotherKal.”“Thankyou,Sister.”Hesaid.HeturnedtoHailynandJake.“Ihopethat

youfoundmyescortadequate.”“Youhavetreatedusverywell.”Hailynstated.“Weappreciateallofyour

help.MaytheblessingsoftheOnebewithyou.”Herselnodded,thenswungupintohissaddle.“Ihopeyourreturnjourneyis

aspleasant.”Heresponded.HemotionedforMescaltofollowandtheyrodebackintothecity.

“IamElsia.”Thefemaleclerictoldthem.“I’mTaric.”Jakesaid,rememberinghiscover.“I’mHailyn.”Hailynechoed.“Greetings,Brother.Sister.”Elsiasaid.Sheturnedtoheadinsidethe

doors.“Pleasefollowme.”WhentheyenteredtheTemple,Jakenoticedastrongpinescentintheair.

Theymadetheirwaydowntheaislethatranbetweenthecarvedwoodenbenchesthatfacedtowardsthealtar.Alongthelogwallswereironrungsfortorchesandcutpinebranches,hangingindecoration.Therewasalargesinglecandleburningonthestonealtar.Severalclericsweresittinginthebenches,eyesclosedinsilentcontemplation.

Elsialedthemtoasetofdoorssetofftothesideofthealtar.Sheknockedandwaited.Amalevoicecamethrough.“Enter.”

Elsiaopenedthedoorandmotionedthemthrough.JakeandHailynsteppedintoalargeroom,withshelveslinedwithscrollsbuiltintothewalls.Therewasanornatelycarvedwoodendesksetnearthebackwall.Behindthatdesksata

largeman,dressedindarkgreenrobeswithagoldenedgeonhiscowl.Hewasplumpandbald,withalonggrayingbeardandbushyeyebrows.Beneaththeeyebrows,hisdarkeyesweresharpandintelligent.HelookedquizzicallyoveratElsia.

“BrotherKal,thisisSisterHailynandBrotherTaricfromSanduas.”Sheexplained.“TheybringamessagefromtheChiefClericofSanduas.”

“Thankyou,Elsia.”Kalreplied.“Pleasehavesomedrinksbroughttous.”Elsianoddedandleft.

“WhatdoesJonaswantfromme?”Kalsaidwithasmile.“HeandImetattheborderlongagoandIknowthatheisacapableleader.Heisunlikelytosendhisclericsthisfarsimplytoexchangepleasantries.”

“Hereishisletter,BrotherKal.”Hailynsaidasshepulledtheletteroutofherbeltpouch.“ItshouldmakeclearBrotherJonas’intentions.”

Kaltooktheletter,lookingitover,thenbreakingthesealandreading.HewasstillreadingwhenElsiareturnedwithatraywithapitcherofwaterandcups.ShepouredJakeandHailynacupwhiletheywaited.

WhenKalfinishedreading,hesattheremusingforafewmoments.HelookedoveratElsia.“Thankyou,Sister.”Hesaid.“Pleaseseethatwearenotdisturbed.”Elsianoddedandleft,closingthedoorbehindher.

“Whatdoyouknowofthisinformation?”Kalaskedquietly.“Notmuch,Brother.”Hailynsaid.“Weonlyhaveafewcluestogoon.”

ShegesturedtoJake.“Wehavethese.”Jakesaidasheproducedtheparchmentwiththerunesthat

Tomarishadgivenhim.HehandedittoKal.Kalstudiedtherunes,eyebrowsdrawingtogetherinconcentration.Hesat

thereforseveralminutesbeforehespokeagain.“Thisisanancientlanguagefromthewest,beyondtheCrescentHills.”He

finallysaid.“Icannotsaywhattheymean.Thekeytointerpretthemisnothereinthecapital.TheonlyplaceIknowthatsuchakeyexistsisatKersant.”

“Whereisthat,Brother?”Hailynasked.“ItisasmallcitywestoftheCrescentHills.”Kalresponded.“Ithasa

librarythathousesmanyancientdocuments.”“TheCrescentHills?”Jakeasked.“Itisarangeofhills,toosmalltobeconsideredmountains,thatextendsouth

fromtheNorthernWastes,thencurvewesttowardstheInlandSea.”Kalstated.“Theyareafivedayjourneytothewest.”

“Isthereawayforustogetthere?”Hailynasked.

“Imaybeabletogetyououtofthecity.”Kalrepliedafteramoment.“However,thereisaproblem.Bytheorderofthequeen,alloftheclericsoutsideofthecityarerequiredtosendregularreportstome.InthecaseofKersant,wehavenothadanyreportsfromtheTempleinweeks.Somethingwedon’tunderstandhashappenedthere.”

…Fartothewest,BruceTaliawalkedthroughthestonehallwaytohis

Master’sthroneroom.Hehadhishoodupandhisblackcloakpulledtight.HeglancedcontemptuouslyattheImpsandhalf-menwhopassedby,forcedtomakewayforhimashewalkedstraightdownthemiddleofthehallway.Hesawthehatred,aswellasthefear,intheireyes.Theyknewwhathecoulddo.

Hehadspentthedayrecoveringfromtheseavoyageataninninthecity,gettinghisstomachsettledbeforehecametothefortress.Theresthadhelped,thesensationofstillbeingonthewaterhavingfaded.Hehadtakenhistimecoming,feelingnohurry.

Ashewalked,hecouldnothelpbutrememberthefirsttimehehadbeenbroughttohisMaster.Hehadbeenterrified,surroundedbyImpsandtheirfollowers,stillnewtothisworld,unsureofwhatwashappening.Theyhaddraggedhimhere,ignoringhispleasandcries.HehadbeenthrowndowninfrontofhisMaster,hismusclesrefusingtoworkwhenhewastoldtostand.Hehadhuddledthereuntilhewasliftedfromthefloor,facinghisnewMasterforthefirsttime.Thathadbeenthestartofhisjourneytowherehewastoday.

Shakinghishead,heapproachedthelargecarvedwoodendoorsthatledtothethroneroom.Thedoorswereinlaidwithgoldanddecoratedwithpreciousstones.HewassurprisedthathisMasterfelttheneedtobringsomebeautyintothisplace.Hemotionedtotheguardsmanningthedoorsandtheyhurriedlypulledthemopen.

Heenteredthethroneroom,takingnoticeoftheotherdemonsthatwerestandingintheroom,waitingfordirection.Thethroneroomwaslarge,stretchingatleastonehundredfeetwideanddeep,withthestoneceilingthatwasatleastfiftyfeethigh.Thewallsweremadeoftightlypackeddarkgreystones,uniforminsizeandsmoothlycarved.Severalchandeliersofcandleshangingfromtheceiling,aswellasbraziersliningthewalls,littheroom.Thetallstonethronewasslightlyoffset,nearthebackwall.Nexttothethroneweretwonaturallyoccurringstones,withalargegapbetweenthem.Inthisgap,Brucesawthatnow-familiarswirlingpitofdarkness,framedbyredfire.Itwastheportalthatallowedthedemonsintothisworld.

HisMasterwasstandingnexttohisthronewhenBruceentered.BrucewasstillawareofhowmuchhisMasterwasunliketheotherdemons.Bruceapproachedhim,kneelingwhenhecamewithinafewfeet.

“Ihavereturned,Master.”Hesaid.Hefeltatrickleofsweatworkitswaydownhisbackasthedemonlordstudiedhiminsilence.

“Whathaveyouseen?”Thedemonfinallyasked.“Creatosisdead,destroyedbyJakeThomasandhisclericfriends.”Bruce

replied.“Creatoshadalwaysconsideredhimselfgreaterthanhewas.”Thedemon

repliedwithaslightsmile.“Tellmeallthathappened.”BruceexplainedwhathehadwitnessedinCreatos’fortress,includingthe

finalbattle.“JakeheldhisownagainstCreatosthroughoutthebattle.Heshowedgreatpower,butitwasthatfinalreleaseofpowerthatnearlydestroyedCreatos.Hewasstrugglingtorecover,butwasfinishedoffbytheclericwiththestaff.”Brucefinished.“HeisthemostpowerfulclericthatIhaveeverseen.HewithstoodthepowerofnumerousImpsbyhimself.”

“IhavehadreportsofthisclericfromSanduas.”HisMastersaid.“Ioncethoughthemaybemyoldenemyindisguise,butnolongerbelievethat.”Hesatdownonhisthrone.“Itistimethatsomethingisdoneabouthim.”

“Iwillgo,Master.”Brucesaidquickly.“IamsureIcangetcloseenoughtokillhim.”

“No.”Thedemonlordreplied.“Idoubtevenyouhavethepowertoovercomehim.”

Brucegrittedhisteethinfrustration.Hehaddemonstratedhispowermorethanonceagainstthosedemonsthatquestionedhisabilities.HeglaredupathisMaster.

“Doyouwishtotryyourselfagainstmeagain,myreluctantpupil?”Thedemonlordlaughed,joinedinbytheotherdemonsintheroom.“Ifyoutry,IwillnotbeasgentleasIwasthelasttime.”

Bruceshudderedslightly,recallingthepainfullessonthathisMasterhadtaughthim.Heswallowedhispride,pushingdownhisanger.“No,Master.”Hesaidtightly.Herepeatedthelinehehadbeentaught.“Ilivetoserveyou.”

“Good,forIhaveotherplansforyou.”Thedemonlordstated.“Iwantyoutogotowheretheswordisbeingheld.Ithinkitistimeforittomoveagain.Youwillfindaninnocentalongthewaytocarrytheswordandbringitbackhere.Iwantitbackundermyprotection.”

“Yes,Master.”Brucerepliedquickly.“ButifImayask,whataboutthe

cleric?”“Donotworryyourselfabouthim.”Thedemonlorddeclared.“Thecleric’s

deathisalreadymovingtowardshim.”Hegesturedtowardsthedoor.“Youmayleaveus.”

Brucerose,bowingtohisMaster,andturnedtoleave.Hesawtheotherdemonssmirkingathimashewalkedaway.Fistsclenched,hetriedtokeephisangerincheckashemovedtothedoor.Hehatedbeinglaughedat.

“Bruce.”HisMaster’svoicecarriedsoftlybehindhim.Hestoppedandlookedback.“Noneofmybrothersorourfollowersaretobeharmed.IfIfindoutthatyouhavedisobeyedmeinthis,youwillfeelmywrath.”

“Asyouwish.”Brucerepliedtightly,turningandleavingthethroneroom.Oneday,Iwillmakeallofyoupay.Hethoughttohimselfashestormedoutofthefortress.

CHAPTERTWELVE

Combinedwiththeheatfromthesunbeatingdown,thedust,dungsmellandtheconstantclangingofthecowbellsfromtheseeminglyendlessherdbegantowearonJake.HewasstandingnexttoDontas,hisrighthandonthesaddlepommel,hislefthandgraspinghisswordhilt,squeezingitinfrustration.Allhecouldseewasabrownandblacklineofcattle,movingslowingalongtheoppositeroad,withthecattledriversspreadoutandridingupanddowntheline,shoutingandcrackingwhipstomaintainorder.

Theywerehaltedatacrossroads,atwo-daysridewestofDunanty,standinginacrowdoftravelerswaitingaswell.Wilhamhadtoldthemthattheymightrunintotheherdersdrivingtheircattlesouthtorichgrazinglandstopreparefortheapproachingautumn.JakeglancedunderDontas’necktowardshim.

Wilhamwasslimmaninhisearlythirties,aboutJake’sheight,withlightbrownhairanddarkeyes.Hisfacewasplain,withaseriouslookthatbefittedhiscalling.Hehadaslimscarthatranacrosshisrightcheek,leavinganemptyfurrowinhisshortbeard,paleagainsthistanface.Hewasdressedinthearmorandgreenhoodofawarriorcleric.

Hewasspeakingquietlywithseveralpeople,Hailynstandingnexttohim.Asteadystreamofothertravelersseekinghealingoracleric’sadvicehadapproachedthemwhiletheywaited.Atleasttheyhavesomethingtodo.Jakethought,bored.

TheyhadwaitedinDunantyfortwodaysbeforeBrotherKalhadbeenabletoarraignforpermissionforthemtoleave.JakeandHailynhadbeeninvitedtodinewithhimbothnights,JakelettingHailynengagehiminconversation,fearingthathewouldgiveawaythathewasnotreallyacleric.Kalhadtakenhisrelativesilencewithgoodgrace,glancingathimfromtimetotime,butnotsayinganything.

ItwaswhentheyarrivedonthesecondnightthatKalpresentedthemwithsealedlettersandinformedthemthattheywouldleavethenextmorning.

“Thelettersarefromthequeen.”Hehadtoldthem.“Ifyouarestoppedbysoldiersorneedassistance,simplypresenttheseletters.Theyinformthereaderthatyouaretravelingonbehalfofthequeenand,ifpresented,thatpersonisforbiddentointerferewithyouandmustprovideanyassistanceneeded,ifasked.”

“Thankyou,Brother.”Hailynreplied.“Thisisagreatgift.Wehadonlyhopedtobegivenleavetodepart.”

“Well,beforeyouthankme,thereisacondition.”Kalrepliedwithasmile.“ABeraganclericwillaccompanyyoutoensurethat,iftheinformationisfound,itisshared.Now,ItrustJonas,butIagreedtosatisfythequeen.”

“Weunderstand.”Hailynrespondedpolitely.“Alocalclericshouldmakethejourneygofastersincetheywillknowtheland,thepeopleandtheircustoms.”

“Ithoughtthesame.”Kalsaid.HelookedoveratJake,aplayfulgleaminhiseye.“Onceyouareclearofthecity,youcanchangebackintoyourarmorandwearyourweapons.Wecan’thaveanyonecominguptoyouforhealingbymistake.”

“Howdidyouknow?”Jakeasked,aghast.Hehadbeensosurethathehadnotgivenanyhintsthathewasnotacleric.

Kallaughed,shakinghishead.“Jonasinformedmeinhisletter.Heexplainedthatyouwerenotacleric,butasoldiersenttoprotectSisterHailyn.Heapologizedforthedeception,butwrotethathebelievedthatyoutravelingasaclerictothecapitalwouldavoiddelaysorquestionsofyourintent.”Hepaused.“IthinkthatIagreewithhim.Youridinghereopenlyprobablywouldhaverousedsuspicionsinthepalaceandmadeitmuchharderformetosecureyourdeparture.”

“Won’tmyarmorandweaponsstillattractattention?”Jakeasked.“Youmayattractsomeduetothefactthatyouareanoutsider,butsinceitis

clearthatSisterHailynisnotBeragan,youridingwithherwillnotseemstrange.Thesightofasoldierridingwithaclericiscommonplacehere.”Kalreplied.“Also,youwillbewithWilham,theclericIamsendingwithyou.Hispresencewilllikelykeepmostquestionsatbay.”

Afterdinner,theywereintroducedtoWilham.HehadrespondedtoKal’ssummons,stridingintoKal’sstudy,anairofquietconfidenceabouthim.Hewaspolite,butserious.Hehadbeenwiththeclericssincehismid-teens,becomingawarriorclericafterhisapprenticeship.HehadtraveledtothewestseveraltimesandwasfamiliarwiththeCrescentHillsandthelandbeyond.

Themorningtheyleft,withtheskycloudyandacoolnortherlywindblowing,Kalhadgiventhemheavycloakswithhoods,madeofleatherwithawaxycoatingontheoutside.“Thesewillhelpkeepyouwarmanddry.”Hehadsaid.“Theweathercanchangerapidlyontheplains,sunnyandwarmoneday,stormyandcoldthenext.”

FollowingWilham,theyhadriddentothewesternroadandkeptasteadypace.Theroad,cuttingacrosstherollingplains,alightbrownsliceinthewavinggreengrass,wasmadeofhard-packeddirt,relativelysmoothdespitethemanywagonsandhorsesthattraveledit.Theyhadspentthefirstnightataninninasmallvillage,wakingintheearlymorningandridingonuntiltheearlyafternoon,butnowstuckbythecattledrive.

Jake,seeingtheothertravelersmoveawayfromHailynandWilham,duckedunderDontas’neck,andmovedclosertothem.

“Howmuchlongerarewegoingtobestuckhere?”Jakeasked,hisirritationclearinhisvoice.“Can’tweridearoundthissomehow?”

“Havepatience,Taric.”Wilhamsaid.JakeandHailynagreedthatheshouldcontinuetousethatnamewithothers.“Itmaynotseemit,butwewillbeonourwaysoon.”Hepointedtoacattledriverwearingabrightredclothbelt,sittingonahorsewatchingtheherd.“Thatisthecattlemaster.Healwaysridesneartheendofanyherddrive.Weshouldseetheendshortly.”

“Ifyousayso,BrotherWilham.”Jakemuttered.Thethreestoodthereforanothertenminutesuntil,finally,thelastcows

passedby,followedbyseveralbrightlypaintedwagons.Assoonastheroadcleared,themassofstucktravelersbeganmovingwest.Therewassomecursingandshovingastheyrodeintoanothergroupoftravelersheadingeast,theroadcloggedwithhorsesandwagons.Jakesawasmallgroupofsoldiersrideupandrestoreorder.

Oncethecrowdsdissipatedsomewhat,theymountedtheirhorsesandcontinuedtheirjourney.Jakewasrelievedtobetravelingagain,hisimpatiencefadingastheyrode.

“OncewereachSulimntonight,theroadwillbecomemuchlesstraveled.”Wilhamtoldthem.“MostofthetownsandcitiesareeastofSulimn.Whenweleavethere,therewillbeonlysmallvillagesalongourpathuntilwereachKersant.”

Asthesunwasdriftinglowinthewesternsky,Jakenoticedalong,darksmudgethatseemedtorisefromtheplains,spreadingacrossthehorizon.HeaskedWilhamaboutit.

“ThosearetheCrescentHills.”Hereplied.“Theyarestillfaroff,butweshouldreachtheirbasebeforenightfalltomorrow.”

Thesunhasjustset,withabeautifulpalateofredsandorangespaintingthesky,whentheyreachedSulimn.Itwasasmallstone-walledtown,setofftothenorthoftheroad,itsmaingateopen.Therewerefourguardslightingwatch

torchesastheyenteredthetown.Theguards,dressedinleatherarmorandcarryinglongsteel-tippedspears,aswellasshortclubsanddaggershangingfromtheirbelts,salutedWilham,lookingrelievedtoseehim.TheygazedcuriouslyatJakeandHailyn.Wilhamnoddedtotheguardsastheyrodepast.Heledthemtoalargeinn,setnearasmallcourtyardinthecenterofthetown.Therewasalargegroupofpeoplemillingaboutthecourtyard.

Astheydismounted,Jakenoticedthatthecrowdinthestreetwatchingthem,pointingandwhispering.SeveraloftheclosestcameuptoWilham,lookingsomewhatconfusedbyHailyn’spresence,butstillspeakingwithhim,theirtonesoftandurgent.Jakecameovertostandwiththem.

“Iheardaboutitaswell.”Amiddle-agedwomaninfineclotheswasfranticallysaying.“Thereweretalesofseveralbandsofthecrazedones,somehavingdemonswiththem,attackingthevillages.”

“Isawonevillage,aboutaday’sridenorthofhere,withmanyhomesburnt,itspeoplescattered.”Afatmandressedinthewornclothesofalaborerinterjected.“Wedidnotstaytofindoutifthecrazedoneswerestillaround.”

“Crazedones?”JakewhisperedtoHailyn.“TheBeragandescriptionforhalf-men.”Sherepliedsoftly.“Fearnot,goodpeople.”Wilhamannouncedloudly.“Tonight,thankstothe

One,youaresafe.”HegesturedtowardsHailyn.“SisterHailynandIarehere.Wewillstandagainstanyattackofthecrazedonesortheirmasters.”

“Whatabouttheoutlyingvillages?”Someoneinthecrowdshouted.“Inthemorning,Iwillgoandinvestigate.”Wilhamstated,lookingaround,

unconsciouslygrippinghissword.“Iwilltrackdownthisbandorbandsofourenemiesandputanendtothem.”

Jakeheardacollectivesighofrelieffromthecrowdastheyslowlybegantodisperse.Wilhammotionedthemtofollowhimintotheinn.

Theinnwasafarcryfromtheotherplacesthattheyhadstayedin.Whilemanyhadraucoushalls,thisonewashalf-full,theatmospheresubdued,amusicianplayingquietlyinacorner.Thepatronslookedoveratthemastheyentered,manylookingrelievedatthesight,thenreturnedtotheirquietconversations.

Theinnkeeper,astoutwomanwithgrayinherhairandaspotlessapronon,refusedtotakepaymentfortheirrooms.“AtleastIknowthatwearesafewhileyouareundermyroof.”ShetoldWilham.

Aftertheywereshowntheirrooms,theywenttoasmall,privateroomoffthemainhalltoplan.Theroomwasplainlydecoratedwithafireplaceinone

wallandasmallwoodentableandfourchairsinthecenter.Astheysatdown,thedooropenedandacoupleofservinggirlsbroughtfoodanddrinkstothem.Oncethegirlsdeparted,Wilhambegan.

“Ifthestoriesaretrue,Imusttrackdownthesebands.”Wilhamstated.“Itisthewarriorclerics’swornmissiontoprovideprotectiontothepeoplefromthedepredationsofthedemons.”

“Wedon’thavethetimetospendlooking.”Jakesaidcautiously.“Ifthedemonsfindoutthatwearelookingfortheinformation,thentheywillmoveittowherewecanneverreachit.Wehavetocontinue.”

Wilhamfrownedatthat.“BeforetheOne,Ihavesworntodefendtheinnocent.IhavetoknowforsurebeforeIcangoanyfurther.”

“Andhowlongwillthatbe?”Jakeaskeddirectly.“Days,weeks?”HemetWilham’seyes.“Wesimplydon’thavethetime.”Herepeatedsoftly.

Wilhamnoddedreluctantly,unhappy.Theysatinsilenceforawhile,allowinghimtocontemplatetheiroptions.Heatelittle,sittingslumpedinthischair,hismindfocusedonthedecisionbeforehim.Hefinallyrousedhimself.

“Imuststayanddetermineifourenemiesarehere.”Hesaidslowly.HeglancedoveratHailyn,eyesappraising.“Sister,doyouswearbeforetheOnethattheChiefClericofSanduaswillsharetheinformationyoufindwithus,ashesaid?”Heaskedseriously.

“Ido,Brother.”Hailynrepliedformally.Shereachedoverandplacedherhandoverhis.“WeallservetheOne.Youmusttrustwhatyourhearttellsyou.”

“Then,inthemorning,youbothwillcontinueontoKersant.”Hesaid,reliefanddeterminationonhisface.“IwillfollowassoonasIfinishmyinvestigation.”Hetookadrinkfromhiscup.“Youonlyhavetofollowtheroad.YouwillreachtheCrescentHillstomorrow.Itwilltaketwodaystomakepassageoverthem.KersantliesonthewesternedgeoftheHills.Ifyouhaveanydifficulties,usethelettersyouweregiven.”

“Thankyou,Brother.”Hailynsaidgently.“Iunderstandthetrustyouareplacinginus.Wewillnotdisappointyou.”

“Idonotdoubtit.”Wilhamsaid,rising.“Wewillspeakagaininthemorning.”Withthat,helefttheroom.

“Ididn’tthinkhewoulddothat.”Jakestated,surprisedbytheturnofevents.

“Heknewyouwereright.”Hailynresponded.“Wedonothavethetimetospendtrackingdownhalf-men,buthehastohonorhisoath.”Sheglancedover

atJake,anunreadablelookinhereyes.“So,nowweareonourown.”“Onourown.”Jakeagreed,takingalongdrinkfromhiscup.Withthesunbelowthehorizon,thetownstillcoveredinshadow,Jakeand

Hailynroseandmadereadytoride.Intheemptymainhall,theyquicklyatethemealpreparedforthem,andthenwenttothestablestogettheirhorses.Astheyleft,theinnkeepergavethemseveralmeals,stuffedinpouches,asagift.JakeandHailynfoundWilhamalreadyinthestables,hishorsesaddledandreadytogo.Theyquicklygottheirhorsessaddledandfollowedhimtothetown’smaingate.Theystarteddowntheroad,headingwest.

“Stayontheroad;itwilltakeyoutoKersant.”Wilhamsaid,faceseriousinthepalelight.“Whenyoureachthecity,youwillfindtheLibrarynearthecenter.Youcannotmissit;itisthelargestonebuildingwithadomedroof.Beyondit,theTempleissetuponasmallhill,overlookingthecity.”Heleanedcloser,voicedropping.“Remember,wehavenotheardfromKersantinweeks,soyoumayberidingintotrouble.Becarefulandcautious.”

“Wewill,Brother.”Hailynreplied.“Youmustbecarefultoo.”“Ialwaysam.”Hesaidwithaslightsmile.“MaytheOnegrantyou

success.”“Andyou.”Hailynsaid.Withthat,Wilhamturnedhishorsenorthandrodeoff.JakeandHailyn

pickedupthepaceoftheirhorses,settlingintoamoderatepace.Thoughthesuncameoutfrombehindthescatteredclouds,thetemperaturestayedcoolandpleasantfortherestoftheday.ThedarksmudgeoftheHillsgrewlargerastheyapproached.

Therewaslittletrafficmovingalongtheroad.Theysawtheseveralwagonsandanoccasionalrider,butforthemostpart,theyrodealone.Theypassedbyseveralsmallvillages,earningcuriouslooksfromtheresidents,butnoonestoppedthem.

Theterrainbegantochangeastheymadetheirwaywest.Thegrassbegantothin,withmoretreesdottingthelandscape,andthegentlyrollingplainstransitionedintomorepronouncedhillsandhollows.Thegroundbecamerockier,withrandomrockformationsrisingfromthegroundlikescatteredstatues.

AsWilhamhadsaid,theyreachedthehillsneardusk.ThehillsappearedtobemorelikesmallmountainstoJake.Hesawtheroadbeganawindingclimbintothehills.HeandHailynmovedofftheroadintoasmallstandoftrees,settingupcamp,hiddenfromtheviewofanypassersby.Theyateaquickmeal

asnightdescendedandHailyntookthefirstwatchasJakerolledouthisblanketsandtriedtosleep.

Thenextdayseemedasiftheyweregoingtoclimbforever,thegoingslowerthanJakewouldhaveliked.Theroadcontinuedtoriseintothehills,neverseemingtodescendinanyappreciableway.Theydidnotencounteranyonethroughouttheday,thenoiseoftheirpassageseeminglytheonlysoundsintheworld,makingJakeuneasy.Itwasiftheyweretheonlytwopeopleleftontheplanet.Hebegantoworriedlylookaround,hismindimaginingunseenthreats,buttherewasnothingbutthetwoofthem.Finally,theynearedthesummitasthesunwassetting.Hopefully,wewillmakebettertimegoingdownhill.Jakethought.

However,theweatherchangedinthenight.Thecloudsgathered,thetemperaturedroppedandagentlerainbegantofall.Quicklycoveringuptheirsupplies,JakewasgratefulforthecloaksKalhadgiventhem.Theywereindeedwarmandtherainrolledoffthewaxysurface.

Inspiteofthenearlyconstantrain,theymadeittotheothersidebythelateafternoonofthenextday.Therainletupjustastheyspiedtheplainsbeyond,thoughthecloudscoveredthesky.Astheycrestedthelasthill,Kersantbecamevisibletothem.

Kersantwasasmallcity,nestledatthebaseofthehills,surroundedbyalargestonewallthatencircledthecity.Theroadtheywereonranuptothemaingates,whichwereopen.Jakecouldseethewarrenofstreetsandalleysthatranthroughthestoneandwoodbuildings.Themainstreetledtothecenterofthecity.Itpassedthroughawidestonecourtyardbeforeleadingtoalargebuildingsittingonasmallhill:theTemple.Onthesideofthecourtyardwasatallstonebuildingthattoweredoverthenearbybuildings.Jakecouldeasilyseethedomedrooffromthisdistance.ThathadtobetheLibraryofKersant.

Astheyrodeoutofthehillsandapproachedthegate,Jakefeltasiftheleadenskywasbearingdownonhim,weighingdownhisspirit,oppressiveinitssmotheringsameness.Thegraycloudsoverheadwashedoutthefaintsunlight.Thecolorsoftheworldseemedtohavefaded;everythingwasnowtaintedwithanashenhue.

Atthecitygate,thetwosoldiersstandingguardstoppedthem.Themenweredressedinchainmailandpointedhelms,armedwithlongpikesandswordsontheirbelts.Theylookedwary,theireyesdartingbehindthem,astheybroughttheirpikesdownandcrossedthem,barringtheirway.

“Whatbusinessdoyouhavehere?”Thesoldierontheleftaskedbrusquely.

“Wearecautiousofoutlanders.”“WehavecometoseekouttheLibrary.”Hailynrepliedassheundidher

cloak,revealingherclerics’robe.“Arewenotallowedinthecity?”“Forgiveme,Sister.”Themansaidquickly.Helookedbehindhimagain.

“Areyousureyouwishtoenter?Itmaybebetterifyoureturnanothertime.”Hesaidquietly.

“Whatistheproblem?”Sherespondedgently.“Ionlywishtospeakwiththelibrarian.”

Beforehecouldspeak,anothersoldierapproached,anofficerbyhisuniform.Hecameup,apprisingHailynandJake,eyesgoingwideatthesightofHailyn’srobes,andturnedtothesoldiers.

“Whatisgoingon,soldier?”Hedemanded.“Whyareyoublockingtheirway?”

“Justaskingtheirbusiness.”Themanreplied,eyesscanningthecitybeyond.

“Letthempass,youfool.”Theofficersaid,hisvoicesoundingnervous.“Wedonotwanttobeknownasinhospitable,dowe?”

“Ofcoursenot,sir.”Theguardanswered,hisfacesuddenlyturningpale.Hequicklyliftedhispike,theothersoldierdoingthesame.“Ifyouwishtoenter,youmay.”

“MaytheblessingoftheOnebeonyou.”Hailynintoned,raisingherhand.Sheturnedtotheofficer.“Canyougiveusdirectionstoagoodinninthecity?”

“Simplyfollowthisstreet,Sister.”Themanreplied.“ThebestinnistheSleepingLady.ItisneartheLibrarycourtyard.”

“Thankyou.”HailynsaidassheandJakerodeintothecity.Jakeobservedthegroupsofpeoplestandingnearthefrontofmanyofthe

buildings,watchingthempass.TheywouldglancetowardsJakeandHailyn,andthenspeakquietlytogether.SeveralhurriedlyturnedandleftwhentheysawthatJakehadnoticedthem.

Hewassuddenlyuncomfortable,hissensestellinghimthatsomethingwasnotrighthere.Hecouldalmostfeelthehiddensub-currentoffearwormingthroughthecity.Whatisgoingon?Hethoughtworriedly.Hewascertainthathewouldnotlikefindingouttheanswer.

“Somethingisscreweduphere.”HetoldHailynquietly.“Can’tyoufeelit?”

“Yes,Jake.”Shesaidsoftlyasshewatchedthepeoplemovingabout.“Weneedtobecautious,butlet’sseeifwecannotfindoutwhattherunesmean

now.Wecanalwaysleaveandsleepinthewoods.”TheyheadedtotheLibrary,itsrounddomeclearlyvisibleovertherestof

thebuildings,guidingthem.TheyenteredthewidepavedcourtyardthatcoveredtheareainfrontoftheLibrary.AstheypassedthefountaininthecenterofthecourtyardandstoppednearthemaindoorsoftheLibrary,ateenagerinwhiterobescamerunningacrossthecourtyardtowardsthem.JakenotedthathecamefromthedirectionoftheTemple.

“Sister,IamNiclos,anapprenticeoftheTemple.”Hesaidassoonashecaughthisbreath.“Areyouahealingcleric?”

“Iam.”Hailynreplied.“ThankstotheOne.”Hesaidquickly.“CanyoucometotheTemplenow?

Wehaveinjuredpeople,butourlasthealingclericleftsometimeago.”HailynglancedatJake,whoshookhisheadno.“Ihavetogo,Jake.”She

saidsoftly.“IcannotletotherssufferwhenIcanhelp,especiallyintheTemple.”

“ThenIwillgowithyou.”Jakereplied.“No.”Hailynsaid.“Findoutwhatwecameherefor,thenjoinme.”“Iwillcomebackforhim,ifyouwish,Sister.”Niclossaidhurriedly,

lookingbacktowardstheTemple.“Please,canwego?”“Wewillgo,Niclos.”Hailynsaid,leaningdownandplacingacalminghand

onhisshoulder.ShelookedovertoJake.“Wehavetotakesomerisks.”“Idon’tlikeit,butifwearegoingtodoit,let’sdoit.”Hestated.“Iwillbe

thereassoonasIcan.”“IwillwaitforyouattheTemple.”Shereplied.SheturnedtoNiclos.

“Leadon,Niclos.”JakewatchedasHailynrodeoff,followingNiclos,whotookoffback

towardstheTempleatarun.Shakinghishead,heslidoffDontasandtiedoffthereinsatahitchingpostnearthedoors.Heglancedaround,themostlyemptycourtyardfillinghimwithmisgiving.Getonwithit.Hegrowledtohimself.

Heclimbedthestairsthatledtothemainentrance,twolargewoodendoorsthatwereopen.HepassedbythestonecolumnsthatbracketedthedoorsandenteredtheLibrary,hisfootstepsechoingsoftlyinthestoneentryway.Hepausedandlookedaround.Thereweresmallroomsofftothesides,withthemainlibrarydirectlyaheadthoughalargearchway.Thehallwayandroomswerelitwithamultitudeofcandles,groupedtogetherinlargeironcandleholders.Therewereatleastfortyorfiftycandlesineachholder.Glancingup,Jakesawthatthestoneceiling,atleastfiftyfeethigh,was

decoratedwithbrightcoloredstones,arrangedincomplexmosaics.Hetookadeepbreathandwentintothemainlibrary.Theroomwashuge,

itsroundwallsmadeofpolishedstone,withthedomedrooftoweringoverthecenter.Therewererowsofwoodenshelvesradiatingfromthecenter,likespokesonawheel,filledwithscrollsandbooks.Jakenoticedtheslightlydustysmellintheroom,faintbutever-present.Ashemadehiswaytothecenteroftheroom,hesawafewpeoplestandingaroundtheroom.Theyseemedstartledbyhispresenceandquicklymovedoff.

Inthecenteroftheroom,therewasanopenspacewithtablesandchairsspreadabout,withcandlesnearby,lightingthearea.Hespottedamaninadarkrobemovingabouttheshelves,returningscrolls.Themanwastallandthin,withalongfacetoppedwithunkemptdarkhair.Jakeapproachedhim,tappinghimontheshouldertogethisattention.Themanjumpedandspunaround,startled.

“Sorry.”Jakesaidquickly,seeingthefearintheman’sbrowneyes.“Ididn’tmeantoscareyou,butIwantedtoknowifyoucanhelpme.”

Themangainedcontrolofhimself,studyingJakeinhisarmor,thoughheglancednervouslyaroundtheroombeforehespoke.“Whatassistancedoyouneed?”Themanasked.

Jakepulledouttheparchmentwiththerunes.“Iamtryingtofindthekeythatwillinterpretwhattheserunesmean.”

TakingtheparchmentfromJake,themanlookedcloselyattherunes.Afterstudyingthemforsometime,hehandedthepaperbacktoJake.“Followme.”

ThemanledJakeovertoatableneartherowsofshelves.“Sitandwaithere.”Themansaidofficially.“Iwillfindyouthescrollsyouneed.”Themanwentdownoneoftherows.

Jakesatdown,lookingaroundthelibrary.Hefeltasuddentwingeoffearwhenherealizedthathewastheonlypersonintheroom.Hetriedtostaycalm,refusingtolethisimaginationgetthebestofhim.Shortly,themanreturned,carryingseveralscrolls.

“TherunesappeartobefromtheHighLanguageperiod.”ThemansaidashesetthescrollsdownnexttoJake.“Thesescrollsarethecommontranslationsfromthatperiod.Theyshouldbeabletoassistyou.”

“Thanks.”Jakesaidashereachedforthenearestscroll.“Ihavemydutiestoattendto,soIwillleaveyoutoyourresearch.”The

mansaidasheturnedtoleave.“Youmayleavethemonthetablewhenyouarefinished.”

Jakenoddedasthemanwalkedbackintotherowsofshelves.Hepulledoneofthecandleholdersclosetogivehimmorelight,thenpulledouttheparchment,layingitnexttothescroll,andbegantolookforanswers.

…TheTemplerearedaboveHailynassheslowlydismounted.Thestructure

waslarge,withseveralsmallerbuildingsattachedtothemainsanctuary.Thegrounds,filledwithtrees,bushesandotherplants,werenotwellmaintained.Thatwassomewhattroublingtoher,butshetriednottojudgethemtooharshlyuntilshehadachancetospeakwithanothercleric.

Noticingthattherewerefewapprenticesaroundthegrounds,HailynquestionedNiclos,whowaswaitingnervouslynearby.“Wherearetheclerics,Niclos?”

“Manyhaveleft,Sister.”Hesaid,glancingaround.“Thefewthatremainareinthesanctuarywiththewoundedandsick.”

“Whydidtheyleave?”“Ishouldletaclerictellyou.”Herepliedashepushedopenthedoorson

oneoftheoutbuildings.“Pleasefollowme.”Despitehermisgivings,shefollowedhimintotheTemple.Hetookher

downalonghallwaythatendednearalargeopeningontherightthatledintothemainsanctuary.“Inhere,Sister.”Hesaidashewentdowntheshortsteps.

Shefollowedhimdown,lookingcautiouslyaroundthemainsanctuaryastheywalkeddownthecenteraisle.Thetallstonewallsweredimlylit,thewoodenbenchesslightlyaskew,anunusualodorintheair.Shefacedforwardandsawthetherewerepeoplecoveredwithblanketslyingonthebenchesclosetothealtar.Shenoticedatallfigureinclericsrobesbendingoveroneoftheinjured,apparentlyministeringtothem.

Shewaswalkingtowardsthecleric,preparedtoassist,whenshestoppedsuddenly,Nicloshaltingwithher.Ithadnotregisteredwhenshefirstglancedatit,butsomethingwaswrongwiththealtar.Whenshelookedatitagain,shesawtheeternalflamewasout.Noclericwouldallowthattohappen!Shocked,sheinstinctivelycalledupherpower,hershiningformchasingawaytheshadows,andwhippedherheadaroundtolookatNiclos.

“Forgiveme,Sister!”Hecriedout.“Ihadnochoice!”Spinningonhisheel,heturnedandranoutofthesanctuary.Shewastakenaback,butbeforeshecouldreact,theclericnearthealtarspoke.

“Donotholditagainsthim.Hetrulydidnothaveachoice.”Analienvoice,mockingintone,camefromthedarkenedhoodasthefigurestraightened.

Humanhandsthatendedinclawsreachedupandpushedthehoodback.Hailynsawwhatlookedlikeanattractivewoman’sface,completewithwavyblackhair,exceptthiswomanhadpitchblackeyesandamouthfullofsharpteeth.“Haveyoucometodielikealloftheothers,littlecleric?”Thedemontaunted,itsformsuddenlysurroundedwithdarkpower.

Hailynheardmovementallaroundher.ShespunslowlyaroundtoseeImpsappearinthedoorways,cuttingoffanyavenuesofescape.

…Jakegroundhisteethinfrustrationashefeltlikehewasgettingnowhere

withthescrolls.Hepushedthembackangrily,unabletofigureouttherunes.Maybeifthelibrariancameback,hecouldgetsomehelp.Herubbedathistemples,tryingtocalmdownandchaseofftheuncomfortablefeelingthathadtakenholdofhisbody.

Caughtupinhisemotions,ittookamomentforhimtorealizethesensationhewasfeeling.Hesprangtohisfeet,spinningaround.AcrosstheroomfromhimwasanImpwithfourmennexttoit.

“Studytimeisoverforyou,boy.”TheImpsneered.“Killhim!”Thedemonordereditsmen.

Jakecalleduphismagicasthemendrewtheirswordsandchargedathim.Hesentawaveofbluefireracingacrosstheroomashemovedawayfromthetable,sweepingoverthemenandtheImp.Tohisshock,whiletwoofthemenexplodedintoashandtheImpwasknockedback,itsformsmoking,theothertwomenranthroughhismagicunharmed.

Shit!Hecursedtohimselfashedrewhisownsword.Hisswordwasbarelyoutofitssheathwhenthetwomenclosedwithhim.Hedesperatelyparriedthelowthrustonhisrightwhilethrowinguphisarmoredforearmtoblockthehighattackonhisleft.Jakecriedoutashefeltaribbonoffireacrosshisleftcheekastheman’sswordgrazedhisface.Atthesametime,hissword,slidingalonghisopponent’sblade,droveintotheotherman’sthighandwaswrenchedoutofhishandasthemanfell,screaming.

Jakethrewhimselfawayfromtheotherman,narrowlydodgingablow,rollingtohisfeetanddrawinghisdagger.Beforehecouldgetset,hewasstruckbyablastfromtheImp,knockinghimoffbalance.Fightingtoregainhisequilibrium,helaunchedablazingazureboltofpowerattheImp,blastingitbackintotheshelves,whichcollapsedontopofitinadeafeningclatterofcollapsingwood.Hewasforcedtodiveawayagainasthemanclosedwithhim,swordslashing.Hebitbackacryofpainastheman’sswordscoredalonghis

thighashepassed.Jakehobbledbacktohisfeet,asthemanattackedagain.Ifyouonlyhavea

daggerwhenfacingamanwithasword,closeandgetinsidehisguard.Dominic’sinstructionsoundedinhismind.Despitehisinjuredleg,heleaptintotheman’sattack.Hefelttheman’sswordglanceoffhisbreastplate,slidingalonghissideandcuttingintotheinsideofhisleftarm.Oncehewaspasttheswordhilt,Jakedesperatelywrappedhisleftarmaroundtheman’sright,pinninghisswordarm.Themanlefthandcameup,smashingintoJake’sfaceandthenpushinghisheadback,tryingtodislodgedhim.Jakebroughthisdaggerup,slammingitintotheman’sunprotectedarmpit.Themanroaredinpain,thenbrightbloodfrothedfromhismouth.Jakeyankedhisdaggeroutandstruckagain.Themanshuddered,hisstrengthsuddenlygone,andcollapsed.

Jakestaggeredback,lookingformoreopponents.Helookedattheotherman,whowaslyingstillontheground,Jake’sswordnexttohiminapoolofblood.Suddenly,withaloudcrash,theImpthrewofftheshelvescoveringitandstood.Jakedidnotgiveitachancetoattack.HefocusedablastofpowerthattorethroughtheImp,reducingittoashesbeforeitcouldevencryout.

Jakelimpedovertowherehisswordwasandpickeditup.Hesawthatthemanwasdead,hiseyesfixedandstaring.Musthavehitthefemoralartery.Hewasmovingtowardsthepileofash-coveredclothesofthehalf-men,planningtowipethebloodoffhissword,whenhedetectedmovementbehindhim.

Hespun,bringinghisswordup.Thelibrarianwaslookingatthedestructionwithashockedexpressiononhisface.HesawtheangeronJake’sfaceandfelltohisknees.“Pleaseforgiveme,youngmaster!”

“Yousetmeup!”Jakeshouted,hisangergrowing.Hemovedcloser,bringinghisswordup.“WhyshouldInotbelievethatyouarewiththem?”

“TheywouldhavekilledmyfamilyifIdidnotsendamessage.”Themanpleaded,hisfacepale,holdinghishandsup.“IwastoldtoalertthemofanystrangerswhocametotheLibrary.”

“Whatthehellaredemonsdoinghere?!”Jakesnapped.“Theyarrivedwiththeirfollowersnearlytwomonthsago.”Themansaid,

lookingattheground.“Theykilledofftheclericsandanywhostoodagainstthem.Weweretoldthatanycaughttryingtofleewouldbekilled,alongwiththeirfamilies.Wehavebeentrappedsincethen.”

“Wherearethey?”Jakeasked,loweringhisswordbutwatchingtheroomformovement.

“ThedemonshavetakenovertheTemple.”Themansaid.

Jakefelthimselfgocold.Hespunaroundandranasfastashisinjuredlegwouldallow.HeexitedtheLibrary,stoppingatthetopofthestairsandlookedtowardstheTemple.Inthelowlight,hesawbrilliantflashesoflightexplodingthroughtheTemplewindows.

“Hailyn!!!”HeshoutedashefranticallyrantoDontas.

CHAPTERTHIRTEEN

Tryingtododgethestreaksofdarkfirethatflewfromthedemons,Hailynpulledinasmuchpowerasshecould.Herformblazedwithintenselight,asshetriedtodefendagainstthedemonsthatattackedherfromallsides.Shewasbuffetedbytheblackpowershecouldnotavoid,thesanctuaryreverberatingwiththesoundsclashingmagics,asshetriedtodeflectthedemons’firerainingdownonher.Shethrewherselftotheside,usingthebenchesascover,andsentablastofpowerradiatingoutinalldirections.SheheardthesoundsoftheImpsbeingknockedback,butthefemaledemonsurgedforward,passingthroughherpower,itsbodyencasedprotectivelyinebonfire.

“She’smine!”ThefemaledemoncriedandtheattacksceasedfromtheImps.ItsneeredatHailyn.“Youarestrong,littlecleric,butthatstrengthwillnothelpyouintheend.”ThedemonpunctuateditssentencebylevelingamassiveboltofpoweratHailyn.

Sheblockedtheattack,thoughitrockedherbackonherheels.Shehadamomentarytwingeoffear;thisdemonwasthemostpowerfulshehadeverfaced.Sheshookoffherconcern,tryingtowrapherselfincalm,andthenconcentratedhermight,sendingablazeofclerics’firestreakingatthedemon.Thedemonwasstaggeredslightly,itsformsizzlingfromthecollisionofpower.

Thedemonscreamed,thatalmost-humanfacetwistedinhate,attackingagain.Hailynshifted,slidingtoherright,tryingtoavoidadirectblastwhilecounterattacking.Thecollidingmagics,yellowchallengingtheblack,stunnedtheveryairoftheTemple,thenoisefromopposingpowersdeafening.Therapidconcussionsreverberatedoverandoverinthestonehall,magnifyingintoanoverwhelmingsound.Theybattledforseveralminutes,withneitherabletogainanadvantage.

Thedemonpausedmomentarilyinitsattack,changingpositionsandmovingquickly,tryingtogetaclearangleonHailyn.Sheresponded,slidingalongthebenchestomatchthedemon.Inthesuddenquiet,anewvoicesounded.

“Areyouhavingtrouble,sister?”Amockingvoicesaid.Hailynlookednearthealtar,herheartsinking,seeinganotherfemaledemonenter,almostidenticaltotheoneshefaced,exceptthisonehadasilverymaneofhair.“Can’tyoudealwithonesmallcleric?”

“Iwillfinishherquicklyenough,sister!”Thedemonspat,glaringoverattheotherone.“Afterwards,Imayteachyoualessoninhumilityaswell.”

Thenewdemonjeeredatthat,thechillingsoundechoingoffthewalls.“Youwillregretthedayyoutry.”

Screaminginanger,thedemonattackedagain,swingingitsfiststowardsHailyn,darkfirestrikingout.Hailyndeflectedtheattackandcountered.Herattackknockedthedemonbackandshefollowedwithanotherquickstrike.ThedemonscreamedinrageandpainasatrickleofHailyn’spowerwasabletopenetrateitsmagicalprotection.Itmovedagain,itsformsmoking,andslashedwithitsclawsatthebenchnexttoit.Thebenchshatteredintolarge,jaggedpieces.ThedemonsnatchedapieceupandflungitatHailyn.Shewasforcedtoduck,avoidingthewoodasitflewpast.

Thedemoncontinuedtohurlpiecesather,smashingbenchesasitmovedcloser,keepingHailynoff-balanceandmoving.Hailyncouldnotlaunchanattack,doingeverythingshecouldtokeepfrombeingstruck.Despiteherefforts,shewasalmosttoolate,divingawayatthelastmoment,asalargechuckofwoodwhistledpastherhead,closeenoughthatanedgeofittuggedatherhair.

Asshedove,thedemoncharged,closingwithher.BeforeHailyncouldreact,itspower-shroudedclawedhandcamedown,thedemondrivingpasttheconflictingmagics,andgrabbedherbyherrightwrist,yankingherup.Hailynbitbackacryasthedemon’spowerburnedher.

Asquicklyasthedemon’shandclosed,itsprangopen.Thedemonletoutascreamofagony,releasingHailynandleapingback,itshandblisteringandsmoking.Hailyn,settlingherfeetunderher,feltasuddenrushofpowerandafieryheatonherwrist,differentfromthedemon’stouch.Theheatwaspresent,butdidnotharmher;infact,itsoothedawaytheburns.Shelookedatherwristinamazement.Therunesonthebraceletwereblazingwithwhitelight.

“TheGuardian!”Thedemonshrieked,clutchingitsruinedhand.Hailyndidnothesitate,attacking,hermagicseekingthedemon.Shefeltthe

powersurgethroughher,heryellowfirestreakedwithbrilliantwhite.Hermightsmashedintothedemon,tearingpastitsprotectiveforce,andconsumedit.Itgaveafinalscream,explodingintoash.

“Killher!”Theotherdemonshouted,attackingHailyn.TheImpsresponded,darkfirecomingatherfromallsides.Sheattemptedtobalanceherpowerfordefensewhilestilltryingtolaunchattacksonthefemaledemon.

Hailynwasbuffetedbytheonslaught,theimpactsrockingherbackandforth.Thefemaledemonwasmoving,buttheconstantattackscausedHailyntoreactawkwardly,inspiteofdesperatelytryingtokeepthedemoninfrontof

her.Offbalance,herreactionwastooslowwhenthedemonunexpectedlypickedupapieceofthebrokenbenchesandthrewitather.

Thewoodslammedintoherchest,stunningher,anddroveherbackintoabench,theimpactknockingherbreathaway.Shefellforwardontothestonefloor,landingonherhandsandknees,hermindnumbandherbodyunresponsive.Sheglancedupandsawthedemonsprintingtowardsher.Shetriedtogatherherpowerasthedemonleaptintotheair,clawsextendedtotearherapart,butknewshewasalreadytoolate.

Outofnowhere,apowerfulboltofbluefirestreakedpastherandstuckthedemon,hurlingitback.Scramblingtoherfeet,sheglancedbehindhertoseeJakestandingatthesanctuaryentrance,shininglikeacobaltstar,theashfromtheImpsthathadbeenguardingthedoorsettlingathisfeet.Hehadhisswordinhishand,butHailynsawthathewascoveredinblood,anastycutvisibleonhischeek.TheImpsbegantoattackhim,forcinghimtorespond.

Sheturnedbacktothefemaledemon,whichwasrisingfromthefloor.Hailynattacked,thesteakofyellow-whitefireflaringlikeapieceofthesun,andhermightstaggeredthedemon,itsbodysteamingandskincracking.Sheattackedafinaltime,hermagicoverwhelmingthedemon’sdefenses,anditexplodedintoash.

SheimmediatelytargetedthenearestImps,herpowercuttingthroughthem.Jake,limpingandgrittinghisteethagainstthepain,movedupnexttoher,stillattackingwithhismagic.TheystoodtogetherinthemiddleoftheTemple,resoluteagainstthedemons,theradianceoftheirpowersblendingintoagreenishhalooflight.Workingintandem,theybroughttheLightbackintotheTemple.Theywereabletosweepawaythedemons’power,quicklydefeatingtheImps.Astheremainingdemonsturnedtoflee,withoutanythingbeingsaid,theyimmediatelypursued,catchingthemandcuttingthemdown.

WhentheyreachedthefarsideoftheTemple,theystoppedandJakesheathedhissword.Astheyturnedtolookateachother,HailynreachedoverandquicklyhealedJake.Reliefspreadoverhisfaceashiswoundsclosed.

“IwassoafraidIwouldnotreachyouintime,Hailyn.”Jakesaid,voicecrackingslightly,ashetookherhand.Helookeddownather,concernandreliefclearinhiseyes.Shewassurprisedwhenhepulledherintoahug,holdinghertight.“Isawthelightofyourbattle.IrodeasfastasDontascouldmove.IwassurethatyouwouldbekilledbeforeIcouldgetheretohelpyou.”

Shewasmovedbyhisadmission,happythathewasexpressingthesefeelingstowardsher.Heheldherforafewmoremoments,thenreleasedher,

lookingsomewhatembarrassedbyhisunexpecteddisplay.“Weneedtostaytogetherfromnowon.”Hestatedquietly,hischeeksred,

lookingateverythingbuther.“Iagree,Jake.”Hailynreplied,faceneutral,butsmilinginside.Heblewouthisbreath.“Weneedtomakesurethatwe’vedestroyedallof

thedemons.Wecan’tleaveanybehindorhaveanyescapetoreportthatwewerehere.”

“ItmaybebestforustocleartheTemplegroundsfirst,thenmovebackintothecity.”Hailynsuggested.

Hisformbrightenedashedrewinmorepower.Helookedather,hisblueeyesshining,andgentlytookherhand,holdingittenderly.Shegavehimasmile,whichhereturned.Hereleasedherhand,hissmileturninggrim.“Let’sdothis.”

…WhenJakefinallywokeup,itwaslateafternoon.HelookedoveratHailyn

inthebedacrosstheroom,sleepingcontently.Hesmiledashewatchedhersleep.Athoughtdriftedinhisconsciousness.She’sprettyevenwhenshesleeps.Heshookhishead,grimacing.Don’tbeaperv.

Hegotupquietly,tryingnottodisturbher,andmovedtolookoutthewindow.Hesawthatthecityresidentshadgatheredinthestreets,thesoundoftheirjubilationechoingthroughoutthecity.Hewassurethattheywouldbecaughtupinthatwhentheywentoutside.

Theyhadspenttherestofthenightfightingandmoving.TheyhadclearedtheTemple,findinganddestroyingseveralImpsthatwerehiding.Oncetheydidthat,theyworkedtheirwaytowardstheLibrary.Theydidnotencounteranyresistanceastheydescendedthehill.

Whentheyreachedthecourtyard,theyfoundoutwhy.Onthefarsideofthecourtyardweretheremainingtendemonsandtheirfollowers,atleasttwohundredmen.Jakeknewthatiftherewerenon-alteredmeninthatgroup,theywouldsimplyoverwhelmandkillthem,astheirpowercouldnotharmthem.However,theycouldnotturnbackastherewasnoplacetoruntothatwouldmakemuchofadifference.

Lookingforoptions,Jakesawaladderleadingtotheroofofanearbytwo-storystonebuilding.JakepulledHailynovertoit,gettinghertoclimbasthedemonsunleashedtheirforcesagainstthem.Jakesentablastofpowerintothechargingmen,destroyingthehalf-meninthegroup.JakeprovidedcoverforHailynasshequicklyclimbedtheladder,deflectingthedemons’firewhilestill

sendingburstsofmagicintothechargingmen.OnceHailynreachedtheroofandbeganattackingthedemons,Jake

scrambleduptheladder.Hereachedtheroofjustasthemenreachedthebottomoftheladder.Jakesentanotherblastdowntheladder,butnothinghappenedasthefirstmenwerenothalf-men.Fromtheroof,Hailynwassendingwaveafterwaveofclerics’fireintothedemonsandcrowdedmen,illuminatingtheskyasifitwasinthemiddleofalightningstorm.Underherfire,thehalf-meninthemassoffightersexplodedinash,decimatingtheirranks.Butatleastoneinfiveofthemenwerenotunderthedemons’influenceandtwentyofthemquicklygatheredatthebaseoftheladder.Jakedrewhisswordashecontinuedtoattackthehalf-men,readytostrikedownanywhoreachedtheroof.ThisislikethefreakingAlamo.Hethoughtbitterly.

Watchingthemenbegintoascendtheladder,Jakeknewthathehadtokeepthemofftherooforthatwouldbetheend.TrustingHailyntodealwiththedemons,hestoodatthetopoftheladder,hisswordready.Hewasrelievedthatthemendidnotseemtohavebows,sohedidnothavetotrustinhisarmortogivehimprotection.Hewaited,grippinghisswordtightly,andunleashinghismagicintothecrowdofmen,hopingthatmoreofthemwerehalf-menastheydrewclose.

Asthefirstmannearedthetopoftheladder,Jakebroughthisswordbackoverhisshoulderandstruck.Themanfell,screaming,knockingofftheothermenontheladderinhisdescent.Beforetheycouldstartbackuptheladder,theairwassuddenlyfilledwiththesoundofhorns.Frombehindthedemons’force,thelocalsoldiersappeared,pikesandswordsattheready,chargingintothefight.Thedemonstriedtoturntheirforcestoengagethisnewthreat.Severalsoldierswerekilledastheforcescollided,burnedbythedemons’fire,beforeHailyndirectedherpoweratthedemons.Themenbelowtheladdertriedtoresist,thenflee,asthesoldiersswarmedoverthem.

Freedfromhavingtodefendagainstthemen,JakejoinedHailyninattackingthedemons.Withbothofthemconcentratingtheirpower,theywereabletorapidlydestroythem.Oncethedemonsweregone,theylaidwastetotheremaininghalf-menwhilethesoldiersfoughtwiththeotherdemonfollowers.

MorequicklythanJakewouldhavethought,thebattlewasdone.HeandHailynclimbeddown,greetedwithcheersfromtheassembledsoldiers.Thecaptainwhohadbeenatthegatecameupandformallysalutedthem.WhileHailynmovedtohealthewoundedsoldiers,hespoketoJake.

“WhenwesawtheflashesoflightfromtheTemple,weknewthatsomething

importantwashappening.Yetwewereafraidtodoanything.”Helookeddown,embarrassed.“Pleaseunderstand.Wehavebeenlivinginfearsincethedemonstookcontrol.”Hepausedforamoment,andthencontinued.“Itwaswhenwesawthedemons’followersgatheringandmovingtowardsthecourtyard,somethingtheyhadneverdonebefore,thatweknewwehadtoact.Withallofthemtogetherinoneplace,wedecideditwasouronlychancetopossiblyridourselvesofthem.Ifwefailed,atleastwewoulddiefightinglikesoldiers,notcoweringinfright.”

WhenHailynfinishedhealingthewounded,sheandJakeaccompaniedthesoldiersastheysystematicallysweptthecitytomakesureitwasclear.ThepeopleappearedstunnedastheyopenedtheirdoorsandsawJakeandHailynshiningbrightlyinthemidstofthesoldiers.Manyofthelocalmengrabbedwhateverweapontheycouldfindandjoinedthesoldiers.

Itwasslightlybeforedawnbeforeitwasdecidedthatallofthedemonsandtheirfollowersweredestroyed.Withbothofthemwearyfromthecontinuoususeofmagic,theyweregiventhebestroomattheSmilingLadyInntorest.CaptainJanue,theleaderofthesoldiers,assuredthemthattheywouldbeundisturbed.

“Whatisgoingon,Jake?”Hailyn’ssleepyvoicecalledovertohim.Heturnedandsawherslowlysittingupandstretching.

“Lookslikeaparty.”Hesaidwithasmile.“Icanseealotoftankardsinpeople’shands.”

“Shouldwejointhem?”Sheaskedcoyly.“Idoubtwewillhaveachoiceoncewegooutside.”Jakeresponded,

laughing.Hewentoverandsatonthecornerofherbed.“Areyoufeelingrested?”He

inquired.“Youdidmostoftheworklastnight.”“I’mfine,Jake;thankyouforasking.”Shereplied,smiling.“Icoulduse

somethingtoeat,though.”“Whenyouareready,wecangodownandgetabite,thenheadtothe

Librarytoseeifwecanfindoutwhattherunesmean.”Hesaid.Hestoodandwentovertostartputtingonhisarmor.“Weneedtogetmovingbeforewordofthisspreads.”

Theinnkeeper,athinandofficiousman,haddinnerservedtotheminaprivateroom.Oncetheywerefinished,theywentoutsideandheadedfortheLibrary.

Alongtheway,theyweregreetedwithwellwishesandtankardsofale.Jake

politelytooksomedrinksfromthetankardsshovedintohishandswhileHailynsimplyrespondedwithblessings.IttookthemsometimetomakeitthroughtherevealersandreachtheLibrary.Onceinside,theyfoundthemanwhohadbeentherethenightbefore,cleaninguptheareathathadbeendestroyedbyJake’sfightwiththeImp.

“Greetings,youngmaster.”ThemanwelcomedJakeastheycameuptohim.“Ihaveheardofthedeedsyoudidlastnightandextendmythanks.”HelookedoveratHailyn.“Toyouaswell,Sister.CanIhelpyouinsomeway?”

“CallmeJake.”Jakereplied,figuringthatafterlastnight,hiscoverwasalreadyblown.“Actually,IcouldnotfindwhatIneededtoabouttherunesbeforethedemonappeared.”Hepulledouttheparchmentwiththerunes.“Couldyouhelpusfindoutwhatthesemean?”

“Itwouldbemypleasure,Jake.”Themansaidashetooktheparchment.“MynameisJolas.Iamthechieflibrarian.”Helookedattherunes,scratchinghisbeard.“PleasesitdownandIwillseeifIcanbringtheproperscrolls.”

JakeandHailynsettledatoneofthetableswhileJolasrummagedthroughthelibrary.Hereturnedshortlywithtwoscrolls,bothlookingoldandfragile.Pullingoverachair,hesatdownandgentlyunrolledthefirstscroll.Hestudieditinsilence,finallyshakinghishead,thensetitasideandopenedthesecondscroll.Afterafewminutesofreading,hestopped,lookingbackandforthbetweentheparchmentandscroll.Noddingtohimself,hemotionedJakeandHailyntocomecloser.Theycameandstoodbehindhim,lookingoverhisshoulder.

“Youcanseethattheserunesappeartomatchtheruneslistedinthescroll.”Hestated,pointingtoasectionofthescroll.“Thisscrollisoversixhundredyearsoldandcomesfromthenorth.Theclosesttranslationseemstobe‘IslandofNor’.WhileIcannotbeabsolutelysure,IthinkthatitisreferringtoNordernLake.Itisalargelake,aboutaweek’sridetothenorth.Ithasanislandnearthecenterofthelake.IdoknowthattherunesarenotreferringtoanislandintheInlandSea,sothathastobeit.”

“Canyougiveusdirectionstothislake?”Hailynasked.“IbelievethatIhaveamapthatIcangiveyou.”Jolassaid.Heroseandwentbackintotheshelves.Hecamebackoutwithasmall

scroll,whichheunrolledandlaidonthetable.JakecouldseethatitwasamapthatcoveredthewesternpartofBeragan,fromtheInlandSeatotheCrescentHillsandnorthtotheNorthernWastes.Tothenorthwestofthecity,almostcenteredbetweentheSea,HillsandWaste,hesawalargeblueareathathadto

representNordernLake.“Canyoutellusanythingaboutthelake?”Jakeasked.“Itisinasparselypopulatedarea,thepeoplemostlyfarmersandcattle

grazers.”Jolasresponded.“Theyareastrangepeople,superstitiousandwaryofstrangers.Therearesomewholivealongtheshoreofthelake,fishingitsdepths,butmanyhavelefttheareaovertheyears.”Hepaused.“Icandomoreresearch,ifyouwish,butthatisaboutallIknow.”

“Thatwillnotbenecessary,MasterJolas.”Hailynsaid.“Themapissufficientforourneeds.”

ItwasturningdarkastheylefttheLibrary,workingtheirwaythroughthecrowdbacktotheinn.Whentheyarrived,theyfoundCaptainJanuewaitinginthemainhall.Hegreetedthemanddirectedthemtotheprivateroom.Oncetheywereinsideandthedoorclosed,hespoke.

“Didyoufindwhatyouneeded?”Heaskedpolitely.“Wedid.”Jakestated.“Whydoyouask?”“YouhadmentionedthatyouwerelookingforsomethingintheLibrary,soI

hadhopedthatyouwerenotsuccessfulandwouldbeinthecityforalittlewhilelonger.”Hesighed.“Thecityeldershaveaskedmetoseeifyouarewillingtostayuntilthecapitalcansendusclericstoreplacetheoneskilledbythedemons.”

“Wecan’tstay,Janue.”JakesaidaftersharingalookwithHailyn.“Itwon’tbelongbeforewordgetsoutaboutwhathappenedhere.Ican’ttellyouwhatwearedoing,butitisveryimportant.Weneedtoaccomplishitbeforeourenemiesfindoutwhatwearedoing.”

“Wehavenoholdonyou.”Hesaidquickly.“Iwillexplainittotheelders.Wewillkeepthegatesecuredandhopeforthebest.”

“TheremaybeaclericnamedWilhamarrivingsometimewithinthenextweekorso.”Jakesaidtoreassurehim.“Hewasaccompanyingus,buthadtoinvestigatesomething.Hesaidhewouldfollowassoonashewasable.He’sawarriorcleric,soheshouldbeabletohelpyou.”

Januenodded.“Ifyouareleaving,isthereanythingwecandoforyou?Icansendsomesoldiersalongtoprotectyou,ifyouwish.”

“Thanks,butthesoldiersmightattracttoomuchattention.”Jakesaid,decliningtheoffer.“Ithinkallweneedissomeextrafoodandwater.”

“Whenwillyouleave?”Janueasked.“Firstthinginthemorning.”Jakesaid,glancingatHailyn,whonodded.“Iwillhaveextrarationspreparedandwaitingforyou.”Janueresponded.

“Iwilldepartnowsoyoucanpreparetoleave.Yourhorseswillbesaddledandreadytotravelbyfirstlight.”Withaslightbow,helefttheroom.

Theywentbacktotheirroomtoorganizeandpack.Alightmealwasbroughtupforthem.Aftergettingeverythingtogetheranddoingsomeplanningwhileeating,Jakewassurprisedthathefelttheneedtosleep.Decidingnottofightit,hecrawledintobed.Hailynfollowedhisexample,blowingoutthecandlesandclimbingintoherbed.Jaketossedforabit,finallyfallingasleep.

ItwasstilldarkwhenhewokeandfoundHailynalreadyup.Theygatheredtheirbelongingsandwentdowntothemainhall.Theinnkeeperwasaway,butthecookquicklypreparedahotbreakfastforthem.Oncetheyfinished,theywentoutsidetofindJanuewaitingforthemwiththeirhorsessaddledandreadytogo.

Thetemperaturewascool,almostcold,astheyrodeslowlytothecitygate.Theeasternskywaslightening,thepromiseofdawnwritteninthesky.Whentheyarrivedatthegate,theyfoundsoldiersliningbothsidesoftheroad.AtJanue’scommand,theysnappedtoattentionandsalutedwiththeirweapons.

“Ipraythatyoufindwhatyouarelookingfor.”Januesaidtothemquietly.“Knowthatyouwillalwaysbewelcomedhere.”

“Thankyou.”Jakereplied.“MaytheblessingsoftheOneshineonyouandyourcity,Captain.”Hailyn

added.“Andyouaswell,Sister.”Januesaidwithanodofhishead.“Safetravels.”WhenJakeandHailynrodetowardsthegate,Januestoodinhissaddleand

shouted.“HailtotheservantsoftheOneandoursaviors!Hail!”“HAIL!”Thesoldiersshoutedinunison,shakingtheweaponsastheyrode

past.“HAIL!”Withthesoundofthesoldiers’cheersechoingbehindthem,JakeandHailyn

turnedtheirhorsesnorthandrodeawayinthedawnofanewday.

CHAPTERFOURTEEN

DominicstoodnexttoShadow,gentlystokingthehorse’sneck,hiddenfromanypasserby’ssightbytheoverhangingbranchesoftheforest.Theyhadstoppedtorestthehorsesagain,theunevengroundunderthetreesmakingthetravelslowandtiringfortheirmounts.Behindhim,hecouldhearthesoftconversationbetweenMoshannaandTaricastheclericexaminedtheirhorses.

Dominicwasgazingacrossthegentlyslopinggroundtowardsthemainnorth-southhighway,thewayhewouldhavepreferredtotravel.Theforestendedabruptly,itsedgeclearlydefinedfromloggingandtheanimalgrazingthathadoccurredoverthelongyears.ItformedthewesternborderofthegreatvalleythatranthegreaterpartofAletonia,stretchingbetweentheGrayRidgesandthecostalmountains.Itwasthemainfarmingareaofthecountry;mostlyopenfieldswithlittlevillagesdottingthevalleyfloor,manynearthemainroad.

AftertheyhadlefttheKeepandcrossedtheGrayRidges,followingalittle-usedmountainpass,Moshannahadbeenadamantthattheyshouldstayintheforest.Hearguedthatitwasbettertotravelunseen,albeitslower,thanhavetoexplaintheirpurposetoeverypassingpatrol.WhileDominicwasnotconvincedofthelogic,thiswasMoshanna’scountry,sohehaddeferredtohisjudgment.

Thereissomethingthatheiskeepingtohimself.Dominicthought.Whilehetrustedtheman,hecouldsenseadeeperreasonwasbehindMoshanna’sreluctancetotravelopenly.

Heglancedbackatthetwo,thecontrastinpersonalitiesstriking.Moshannawasdressedinhisarmor,witharoughhoodedcloakhangingfromhisshoulders,whileTaricwasbackinhisbrowncleric’srobe,hischainmailhiddenbeneath.Moshanna,hisdarkfaceseriousandalert,waslisteningpolitelyasTaric,abroadsmileacrosshisface,wasattemptingtogetMoshannatolaughathisjokes.

Shakinghishead,Dominicreturnedtohisstudyoftheroad.Ashegazedoutatthevalley,hislefthandcomingtorestlightlyonhisswordhilt,thetouchseemedtodirecthisthoughtsbacktotheshorttimethattheyspentattheKeep.

TheyhadpassedthoughtheKeep’smaingateinthelateafternoonoftheseconddayfollowingJakeandHailyn’sdeparture.Afterashortreportfromtheguards,theyrodedirectlyintothemainchamberoftheKeep,thecarriagecarryingTomarisandTaricstoppingnexttothestairs.SeveralofMoshanna’ssoldiersarrivedandtookthehorsestothestableswhilehe,MoshannaandTaric

hadjoinedTomarisinhisdininghall.Dinnerwasbroughtandaftertheyhadfinishedeating,Tomarisspoke.

“WithJakeandyoungHailynsearchingthenorthernprospect,youwillgosouth.”Theoldmanhadsaid.“TherearecluesthatindicatethatapossiblelocationoftheswordisinthefarsouthofAletonia,neartheSouthernWilds.Therewasawordthatwasrepeatedinseveraloftheclues-Parshis.Ittookmesometime,butIfinallydeterminedthatthisisareferencetotheancientruinscurrentlyknownasParshalthia.Theseruinsofalong-lostcityarelocateddeepintherockyhillsthatbordertheWilds.”

“Ihaveheardofthatplace.”Moshannasaid.“Mosttravelersknowtoavoidit.Itissaidthatifyouenterthatcity,youwillnevercomeout.”

“Whichmakesitanidealplacetohidethesword.”Tomarisreplied.“Itispossiblethatourenemieshavetakenstepstoencouragethatreputationtokeeptheclericsandothersaway.”

“Iftherearedemonsthere,shouldn’twehavemoreclericsthanmyself?”Taricasked.“Iamnotafraidoffacingdemons,butifthereareenoughpresent,Iwillnotbeabletostandagainstthem.”

“Youmightfindnothingbutlong-abandonedbuildingsanddust.”Tomarissaidreassuringly.“However,ifyoucandeterminethattheswordisthere,thenyouwillneedtorecruitadditionalallies.PerhapstheAletonianclericswouldassist.”

“Thatassumeswedon’tgetourselveskilledbeforewecansendsucharequest.”Taricrepliedsarcastically,agrimsmileonhisface.

“Ihavetheutmostconfidenceinyourabilities.”Tomarissaidpleasantly.“Besidestheirfightingskills,DominicknowshowourenemiesthinkandactwhileMoshannaknowsthepeopleandthelandinwhichyoutravel.Youarestronginyourpower,givingthemprotectionfromthedarkpowerofthedemons.KeepyourfaithintheCreator.”

Tomarisstood.“Youshouldrest.Youwillleavetomorrownight,slippingoutwhiletheKeepsleeps.WhileIamconfidentthatourenemiescannotpenetratetheKeep,itisprudenttoassumethattheyhaveinformantswatchingit.”

DominicandTarichadbeengivenroomsnearwhereheandJakehadstayedduringtheirtimeattheKeep.Dominichadtakenadvantageofthebathtocleanup.Whenhehadcomeouttothemainroom,dryingoff,therehadbeenagentleknockonthedoor.HecrackedopenthedoortoseeTomarisstandinginthehallway.

“MayIcomein?”Theoldmanhadasked.Dominicnodded,steppedasideandallowedhimtoenter.Tomarishadgone

overtositontheedgeofthebedacrossfromthedesk.Dominicretreatedintothebatharea,puttingonacleanshirtandpantsandreturned.Hepulledthechairawayfromthedesk,hisswordbelthangingoverthebackofthechair,andsatdown.

“Idonotmeantointerruptyourrelaxation,butIwantedtospeakwithyoualone.”Tomarissaidoncehehadsettled.

“Whatdoyouwishtosay?”Dominicasked.“Youhavethemostexperiencedealingwithourenemies.”Theoldman

replied,staringintoDominic’seyes.“WhileMoshannaandTaricareconfidentintheirskillsandpower,theywillnaturallylooktoyouforleadership.Iknowwhyyourefusehealingifyoucan,butinthisquest,ImustaskyoutoallowTarictohealyou.Yourbattleknowledgemaybecriticalforsuccess.Thisquestismorethansimplyhelpingthechildreturnhome.WiththeGuardian’ssword,wemayhaveatooltoridthisworldofthedemonsandtheirinfluence.Thinkofalloftheinnocentsthatmaybesparedtheterrorthatthedemonsbringifwesucceed.”Hepausedforamoment.“Willyougivemeyourwordthatyouwillaccepthealing?”

“Iwillaccepthealing,ifrefusingwouldpreventmefromcontinuing.”Dominicreplieddirectly.“Iwillnotacceptitforminorortrivialwounds.”

“Thatwillbesufficient.”Tomarissaidquietly.Hecontinuedgently.“Someday,Ihopethatyouwillbeabletoletgoofyourpainandstoppunishingyourself.Somethingsarebeyondourcontrol,nomatterhowmuchwethinkotherwise.”

“Onlydeathwillreleasemefrommyloss.”Dominicstatedbluntly.“Asyouwill,Dominic.”Tomarissaid,noddinghishead.“Idonotwish

youtobeangrywithme.PleaseforgivemeifIhavecausedyouanyadditionalhurt.”

“Thereisnothingtoforgive,Tomaris.”Dominicsaidwithawaveofhishand.Hesmiledbriefly.“Jonashasbeensayingthesamethingstomeforyears.”

Theysatinsilenceforafewmoments.Dominicwascontenttowaituntiltheoldmanspoke.

“MayIseeyoursword?”Tomarisaskedsuddenly,holdingouthishand.“IwouldliketoseehowtheMastersmithusedtheformulaIgaveJonas.”

Shrugging,Dominicreachedbehindhimanddrewhissword,handingitto

Tomaris.Theoldmansattherestudyingthebladeforabit,runninghisfingersoverit,eyessharp,lookingcloselyatthemetal.Heturneditoverinhishands,thenhelditouttoDominic,hiltfirst.

“Thatismarvelouswork;heisaskilledcraftsman.”TomarissaidasDominictookthesword.Whenhepulleditback,hesawatraceofbloodonit.Tomarislookeddownathishand,asmallcutvisibleonhispalm.“Youkeepitsharpaswell.”Hesaidwithachuckle.

Tomarisreachedoutwithhisrobesleeveandquicklywipedthebloodofftheblade.Hepulledoutapieceofclothfromhisrobe,wrappinghishandasDominicputawaythesword.“Thecurseofoldage:slowreflexes.”Tomarissaidwirily,risingfromtheedgeofthebed.“Iwillletyougetsomerestandseeyouofftomorrownight.”

Thefollowingnight,aftertheKeephadgonetosleep,Dominic,MoshannaandTaricwentdowntothestables.TheyweresaddlingtheirhorseswhenTomarisappearedandwentovertoMoshanna.Eventhoughtheyspokesoftly,Dominicwasabletohearwhattheysaidinthequietofthenight.

“Iknowthatyoudonotwishthistrip,myson.”Tomarissaid,layingahandonhisshoulder.“YouareneededorIwouldnotaskitofyou.”

“Ihavepledgedtoobeyyou.”Moshannahadresponded.“Igowhereyoucommand,Tomaris.”

Tomarissimplynodded,thenstoodby,waitinguntiltheyweresaddledandreadytoride.Hesteppedcloseandsaid.“Ifyouaresuccessful,theremaybeanewdawninthisworld.Trustandprotecteachother.Lookforalliesalongtheway.MaytheblessingsoftheCreatorgowithyou.”

TheyhadriddenoutthroughasecrettunnelthatemergeddeepintheGrayRidges.Moshannaledthemthroughthemountainsandintotheforestwithoutincident.

Awagonappearedontheroadbelow,bringingDominicoutofhismemories.Hewasabouttoturntospeakwiththeotherswhensomethingaboutthewagonstoppedhim.Helookedatitclosely,thefiguressmallatthisdistance.Hesawarideronahorseinfrontofthewagon,withaslimmanandalargemanridingthewagon.Ashewatched,hecouldjustmakeoutthewhitehairontheslimman.

HeswungupintoShadow’ssaddle.Heglancedoverattheothertwo,whowerelookingcuriouslyathim.“Waithere.”Hesaidshortlyasherodeintotheforest,parallelingtheroad.

…

MartiswaslostinthoughtasRanechdrovethehorses,Fraderridingalittleaheadofthewagon.Hewastryingtofigureouthowhecouldrecoverfromwherehehadfallen.Hejustknewthatheneededtogetsomewheresafe.EversincetheyhadfledthatcursedtownNumaria,hehadbeencallinginhisaccountsandcashingout.HehadclosedhisaccountsinBeragan,collectingthegoldthatwassafelystoredinthewagon’ssecretcompartment.TheyhadriddenintoAletonia,cautiouslymakingtheirwaysouth,stoppingatvillagesortownsonlywhentheyneededsuppliesorwherehehadinterests.Hiscautionwaswellfounded,ashisformerbusinesspartnerhadmadeabundantlyclear.Hefeltasurgeofangerandfearashisminddriftedbacktothoseevents.

Justtwodaysago,theyhadstoppedatJaquin’sstoreinamediumsizedtownnorthofwheretheycurrentlywere.HeandMartishadtiesthatstretchedbackyears,tiesthathadbeenprofitableforboth.Aftersomehaggling,Martishadsoldhimhissharesoftheoutstandingbusinesstheystillhadtogether.Jaquinhaddrivenahardbargain,sensingMartis’desiretobegone,andpurchasedthesharesforafractionoftheirworth.Martishadhatedtosellforthepricehedid,buthewantedtoseverallofthetiesthatcouldleadbacktohim.

Jaquinhadinvitedthembacktohishome,whichwasontheoutskirtsoftown,askingthattheyjoinhimforamealbeforetheyleave.TheyhadarrivedatJaquin’shome,alargewoodenstructurewithastonefireplace,simplebutelegantlyconstructed,befittingarelativelysuccessfulmerchant.Theysatinthelivingarea,drinkingwinewhileJaquin’swife,apleasantandattractivewomaninadressthatemphasizedherlargebosom,andtheirson,athinboyinhismid-teens,preparedtheeveningmeal.Whentheyfinallysatdowntoeat,Jaquinsenthissonoutonanerrand.

“Justsomethingthatneedstobedonetonight.”JaquinsaidwhenhesawMartisfrownatthedepartinglad.“Theboycaneatwhenhefinisheshisduties.”

Itwasafterthemeal,asJaquinandheweresittingintwooverstuffedchairs,sippingmorewineandtalking,whenMartisfiguredoutwhattheerrandwasabout.

“Martis,Iheardadisturbingreporttheotherday.”Jaquinsaidasheabsentlyswirledhiswineinhiscup,hiseyessharpandpredatory.“AcustomerwastalkingabouthowamanwaswantedinSanduasforconsortingwithdemons.”

Martisstiffened,glancingoveratRanechandFrader,whoweretalkingandflirtingwithJaquin’swifeinthenextroom.Hetriedtocoveritbycoughing,buthecouldtellthatJaquinhadseenhismovement.

“Hepulledoutthedescriptionandshowedme.Thereisquitealargereward

offeredtowhoeverbringsinanolderwhite-hairedman,posingasamerchant.Heissaidtobeaccompaniedbytwohiredhands.”Jaquinsaidquietly.Hisfacehadacruelsmileonit,greedinhiseyes.“YoucanimaginemysurprisewhenIrealizedthatitwasnoneotherthanmyoldbusinesspartner.”

Terrorcoursingthroughhisbody,MarislashedoutandsmashedhiscupintoJaquin’sface,sendinghimtumblingoutofhischair,whilecryingouttoFraderandRanech.HeheardJaquin’swifebegintoscream,whichcutoffwhenRanechwrappedhisarmaroundherthroatandsqueezed.Fraderranoverand,atMartis’nod,thrusthisknifeintoJaquin’schestashewastryingtogetoffthecarpet.Hegroanedandshuddered,thensankbacktothefloor,hisbloodspreadingitsdarkstainacrossthelightcarpet.Ranechsqueezedandtwistedhisarm,breakingJaquin’swife’sneck.Shecollapsedwhenhereleasedher,acrumpledheaponthefloor.

Pantingfromfear,Martishadorderedthemout.Fraderoverturnedsomelanternsastheyracedouttothewagon,settingthehouseablaze.Astheyrodeaway,anglingawayfromthetown,theycaughtaglimpseofsoldiersridingalongtheroad,torchesheldhigh,headingtoJaquin’s.Theyrodeasfastasthenightwouldallow,circlingbacktotheroadandridingthroughthenight.Wecanheadtothefarsouthandrideoverthemountainsintothecity-states.Hethought.Icanfindaplacetohideoutthere.Hopefully.

Shakinghisheadandreturningtothepresent,hewonderedagainhowthisallhappened.Eversincehehadbeendraggedintothesearchforthatboy,hislifehadbeenturnedupsidedown.Hewascutofffromhisfamiliarhaunts,couldnottrustanyoneanymore,andwasnowawantedman.Worseofall,hewasnowknownasworkingwiththedemons,thethinghehadkepthiddenforalltheseyears.Cursingsilentlytohimself,hethought.Idonotseehowthiscouldgetanyworse.

Glancingup,asifsummonedbyhisstatement,thethingthathadgivenhimnightmaresmaterialized.Ittooktheshapeofalargewarrior,scarredfacecoldandhard,ridingablackwarhorse,comingoutofthewoodsandblockingtheirpath.

…TaricstoodwithMoshanna,watchingasDominicrodeoutandconfronted

thewagon.HesawthemanonthehorseinfrontofthewagondrawhisswordandchargeDominic,ignoringthecriesofoneofthemenonthewagon.

“Idiot.”HeheardMoshannasayquietlynexttohim.Dominic’sswordflashed,catchingthesunlightashedrewit.Herodeinto

theman’scharge,swordslashingastheypassed.Taricsawthemansway,thenslideoutofhissaddle,tumblingtotheground.

Ridingforward,Dominicpointedhisswordasthetwomenonthewagon,darkspotsofbloodontheblade.Taricwastoofarawaytohearwhathesaid,butsawthementhrowtheirknivesandotherweaponsinthebackofthewagon.Hewatchedasthelargemanclimbeddownandpickedupthefallenman,carryingthebodyandsettingitinthewagonaswell.Dominichadtakenthereinsofthefallenman’shorse.HepointedwithhisswordtowardswhereTaricandMoshannawerestanding.Thewagonturnedandheadedacrossthefieldintheirdirection,Dominicridingbehindthem.

…Oncethewagonwasinthesafetyofthewoods,Dominicdismounted.He

sawthatMoshannahaddrawnhisswordandwasstandingreadyifthemenmadeanymoves.Hestrodeuptothewagon,lookingupatthemen.

“Getdown.”Heordered,facesetandhiseyeslikeice.Hewatchedthemscrambledown.Whentheywereontheground,he

orderedthemtokneeldownandlookedoveratMoshanna.“Iftheytrytomove,killthem.”Hestated,Moshannagivinghimashortnod

inreturn.Hewentoverandinspectedthewagon.Thereweresomesupplies

surroundingthedeadmaninthewagonbed,butnothingofrealvalue.Hecrawledunderthebed,takinghisdaggerandtappingthehiltonthewoodenplanks.Henoticedaslightdifferenceinsoundtowardsthemiddleofthebedascomparedtothesides.Heslidoutfromunderthewagonandwentovertothemen.

“Iknowthatthereisacompartmentbuiltintothewagonbed.”Hesaidashestareddownatthewhite-hairedman.“YouwillopenitorIburnthewagontothegroundtogetinside.”

Themannoddedfearfullyand,atDominic’sgesture,wentunderthewagonandopenedthehiddencompartment.HescrambledbacknexttothelargemanwhenDominicpointed.

Dominiccrawledbackunderthewagonandlookinsidethecompartment.Hesawseverallargepouchesshovedtowardsthefrontofthecompartment.Hepulledoneout,feelingtheweightandhearingtheclickingofcoins.Heopenedittoseeitfilledwithgoldandsilvercoins.Heshoveditbackinandclosedthehatch.

“Cleric,seeiftheyareundertheinfluenceofthedemons.”HetoldTaric.

Taricnodded,hisformsuddenlyshining,andplacedhishandonthewhite-hairedman.Nothinghappened.Herepeatedtheprocesswiththefatmanwithsimilarresults.Steppingback,Taricsaid.“Theyarenormalmen,Dominic.”

“Merchant,youwillnowtellmeeverythingyouknowaboutwhatthedemonsaredoing.”Dominicstatedashekneltinfrontoftheman.“Youdonotwantmetohavetopullanswersfromyou.”Themanflinched.

Haltinglyatfirst,themanbeganspeaking.Heclaimedthathewasforcedbythedemonstodowhathedid.HethoughttrackingdownJakewashisonlymission.Heclaimedtonotknowthatthedemonswouldattackthecity.HewasorderedtofollowDominicandJaketoNumaria.

Dominicwassurethatthemanwashidingmore,buttheydidnothavetimetospendinterrogatinghim.Hestood,knowingwhatheneededtodo.HeglancedoveratMoshanna,whocaughthismeaningandnodded.

Taricalsosawthelook.“No,Dominic!”Hesaidasheplacedhimselfinfrontofthemen.“Iwillnotallowyoutomurderthesemen.”

“Intheirownwords,theyhaveadmittedtoconsortingwithdemons.”Dominicsaidsharply.“Theyhelpedthedemonsattackthecity.WecannotkeepthemwithusandIwillnotreleasethembackintotheworld.”

“ThenwemustturnthemovertotheAletonianauthorities.”Taricsaidresolutely.“IamaservantoftheOne.Thesemenmaybefollowersofthedemons,buttheyaremen;yousawmeexaminethem.Theyshouldanswerfortheircrimes,butitmustbebytrial.Thatway,theymayhaveachancetoreflectontheirtransgressionsandmakeamendswiththeOnepriortoanypunishment.Iamconcernedfortheireternalspirits,nottheirphysicalbodies.”

“Clerics.”Dominicsaid,shakinghishead,resigned.HelookedoveratMoshanna.“Whatdoyouthink?Canwefindawaytogetthemtoalocalgarrison?”

DominicsawMoshannagrimace,thennodhisheadslowly.“Wecantaketheroad.”Hefinallysaid.“Wewillencounteravillagelargeenoughtohaveagarrison.”

“Isthereaproblemwiththat?”Heasked,noticingthereluctance.Sighing,Moshannalookedoverathim.“WhenIleftAletoniaandwentto

serveTomaris,Ileftbehindsomeenemies.”Hesaidquietly.“ThatiswhyIwantedtopassthroughthecountrywithminimalcontact.IfmyenemiesknowIamhere,therewillbetrouble.”

“Wewilltrytokeepthisshort.”Dominicreplied,lookingovertowardTaric.“Ifyouaregoingtoinsistonthis.”

“Iam.”Taricstated.Hefacedthekneelingmen.“Theclerichassavedyourlifetoday.”Hesaid,

voiceemotionless.“Youwillrideinthewagon,followingme,untilwereachthegarrison.Ifyoumakeanyattempttoflee,Iwillendyouboth,despiteanythingtheclericsays.Isthatclear?”Themenfearfullynoddedtheirunderstanding.

Shortly,theywereridingoutoftheforestandtakingtheroadsouth.Dominictookthelead,withTaricandMoshannafollowingbehindthewagon.Moshannapulleduphishood,hidinghisfaceastheyrodeforward.

ItwasneardarkwhentheyfinallyreachedthevillageofArpetigo.Thevillagewasspreadoutoneithersideoftheroad,thebuildingsmadeofwoodwithstonefoundations.Theyreceivedsomecuriouslooks,butnoonestoppedthem.Nearthesouthendofthevillage,Moshannatoldthem,wasoneoftheroadsthatraneasttowardsthecapital.Atthejunctionoftheroadswasthefortressofthelocalgarrison,asquatstonebuildingwithlargewoodengates.Thegateswereopenandapairofsoldierswerelightingtorchesoneithersideofthegates.Dominicledthemtothegates,stoppingwhenaguardsteppedintothemiddleofthepath,holdinguphislefthand,palmout.

“Identifyyourselfandstateyourbusiness.”Thesoldiersaid,tonebriskandbusinesslike.Hewasdressedinarmor,chainmailencasinghisarmsandlegs,withabreastplateoverhischest.Hehadalongswordbeltedaroundhiswaistandaroundsteelhelmcoveringhishead.Heheldalongwoodenspearinhisrighthand;thetipwasawickedlookingbarbedsteelpoint.

“IamDominicofSanduasandIbringcaptivestoturnovertothequeen’sjustice.”Dominicrepliedformally.

“LordDemonhunter.”Themansaid,eyesgoingwideandbowing.“IamSergeantSefanRiverborn.Itismyhonortogreetyou.”

“Demonhunter,Sergeant?”Dominicinquired.“Thatisthenamewhichwehonoryouwithhere.”Riverbornreplied.

“Wordofyourendlessfightagainstthedemonshasreachedtheearsofthepeople.Youhavemuchhonorandareheldinhighesteem.IfImaybesobold,bythequeeneven,somesay.HowmayIassistyou?”

“ThesemenonthewagonarewantedinSanduasforworkingwiththedemons.”Dominicstated.“Theyhelpedintheattackonthecity,givingthedemonsvitalinformation.IcannotescortthembacktoSanduasandmyfriendtheclericinsiststhattheybetried.WetrustthatyoucanholdthemandseeifthequeenwillsendthembacktoSanduasortrythemherself.”

Theman’seyeshadgoneflatwhilelisteningtoDominic.Heglaredatthemensittingonthewagon.“Wehavenouseforthosethatconsortwithdemons.”Riverbornstatedbluntly.“ButIwillhonoryourrequestandholdthem.Iwilldispatcharidertothecapitaltoseewhatmycommanderswishdone.”

Heturnedandcalledformoresoldiers.Eightmen,similarlydressedandarmed,cameoutofthefortress.Theytookuppositionsaroundthewagon.

“CanIofferyourpartyaplacetostayforthenight?”Riverbornasked.“Theaccommodationsarebasic,butclean.”

“Thankyou,Sergeant,butwewillfindaninn.”Dominicbegan.Ashespoke,Moshanna’shorsemoved,shiftingtotheside,pulling

Riverborn’seyetohim.HecaughtaglimpseofMoshanna’sdarkfacebeneaththehood.

“Whoisthisman,LordDemonhunter?”Riverborndemanded.“YouarenotknowntohaveAletoniancompanions.”

BeforeDominiccouldrespond,RiverbornstrodepasthimandstoppedinfrontofMoshanna.“Identifyyourself.”Hedemanded.

Moshannadidnotrespond.AtRiverborn’ssignal,thenearbysoldiersloweredtheirspears,thesharpsteelaimedatMoshanna.RiverbornusedhisspeartopushbackMoshanna’shood,revealinghisface,whichhadaresignedlookonit.Atthesight,DominicheardRiverborn’ssharpintakeofbreath.ThesoldierskepttheirspearsonMoshannaasRiverbornreturnedtoconfrontDominic.

“Doyouknowwhothismanis,Demonhunter?”Riverbornasked,faceunhappy.“Youareknowntohavegreathonor,soIdonotbelievethatyouwouldknowinglyassociatewithatraitoroftherealm.”

CHAPTERFIFTEEN

“Atraitor?”Dominicsaid,incredulous.“HowhashebetrayedAletonia?”“Heranfromhishonor,pledgedbeforethequeen.”Riverbornreplied,

glaringatMoshanna.“Betrayingyourwordtothequeenisthesameasbetrayingthequeenherself.”

“Whatnow,Sergeant?”Dominicasked.“HeismycompanionandIwillnotabandonhim.”

“Hemustbetakentothecapitaltofacethejudgmentofthequeen,LordDemonhunter.”Riverbornstated.“Youmayaccompanyhim,ifyouwish.”

“Wewill.”Dominicsaid,lookingoveratTaric,whonodded.“Imustinsistthatyoustayheretonight.”Riverbornsaid.“Wewillleaveat

firstlight.”HelookedbackatMoshanna.“Sinceyouhaveclaimedhimasacompanion,Iwillnotrelievehimofhisweapons,ifyouwillpledgehiscooperation.”

“Beforeyouagree,knowwhatthatmeans.”Riverbornsaidquickly,holdinguphishandtoforestallDominic.“Sinceheisdeemedatraitor,hiswordmeansnothing.Ifyoupledgeforhim,youareguaranteeinghisproperconduct.Ifheweretotrytoescapeorturnonmysoldiers,youwouldbeexpectedtokillhimtopreserveyourhonor.Ifyouweretoaidinhisescape,youwouldbeattaintedwithhiscrimeandbedeemedanenemyoftherealm.”Hepaused.“Doyoustillwishtopledgeyourword?”

“Ido,Sergeant.”Dominicreplied.“Verywell.”Riverbornsaid,motioningforhismentolowertheirweapons.

“Iwillhaveaspacesetasideforyouandfoodbrought.”Henoddedoveratthewagon,agrimlookonhisface.“Thedemonfollowerswillgetthecellstonight.”

“Thatsoundstoofineforme,butIwilldefertoyourjudgment,Sergeant.”Dominicsaid,lookingoveratthewagonandseeingthewhite-hairedmerchantquail.

Theywereledintothefortress,itsstarkgraystonewallsrisingaroundthemtoformacourtyard.Inthecenterofthecourtyardstoodasquatbuildingbuiltfromthesamestones.Itwasasinglestorywithdefensivebattlementsconstructedaroundtheroof.Inthecenterofthebuildingwasasetofheavywoodendoors,boundinsteel.Therewerethinverticalslitsbuiltintothewallsofthebuildingtoallowforarcherstoshootout.

Nearthefarwall,Dominicsawthattherewereseveralsteelcages.Theyweresmall,onlyaroundthreefeetbythreefeet,withalowceilingonlyaboutfourfeethigh,forcingwhoeverwasinittobendoverorkneel.Thedirtfloorwascoveredwithalightdustingofstraw,withbarelyenoughroomtoliedownifyoucurledup.Dominicwatchedasthemerchantandhismanweretakenoverandtossedroughlyintothosecells.

Theydismountedinfrontofthedoorsofthemainbuilding,allowingtheirhorsestobetakenawaytothestable.Whentheyentered,Dominicsawthattheroominsidewasaustere,thewallsplainandunadorned,withsomeironbraziersforlightandwarmthandafewpiecesofrough-hewnwoodenfurniturespreadabout.Thereweretwohallwaysoneithersideoftheroom.Riverbornledthemtotheoneontherightanddownthehallwaytoanotherdoor.Heopenedthedoortorevealasmallroomwithseveralwoodenpalletsonthefloorandasmalltablewithalanternonit.Thepalletswerecoveredwiththinclothmattressesstuffedwithstraw.

“Iapologizefortheaccommodations,BrotherClericandmylord.”Riverbornsaid.“Thesearequartersforsoldiers,sothereisnotmuchcomforttobefound.”

“Wehaveallsleptinworseplaces,Sergeant.”Dominicreplied.“Thiswillbesatisfactory.”

“Doyouhaveanymenthatneedacleric’sattention,Sergeant?”Taricoffered.“Iwouldbemorethanhappytohelpthem.”

“Ido,Brother.”Riverborntoldhim.“Wehavenotseenaclericinsometime,soyourassistancewouldbewelcomed.Pleasefollowme.”

OnceTaricandRiverbornleft,DominicsatdownonapalletandmotionedMoshannatodothesame.Oncehesatdown,Dominicspoke.

“Whatisthisallabout,Moshanna?”Hesaidquietly.“Ifindithardtobelievethatyouwouldbetrayanyone,leastofallthequeen.”

Moshanna,hisdarkfacepensive,satstillforafewmomentsbeforereplying.“InAletonia,aman’shonorisconsideredsacred,hiswordabondthatcannotbebroken.Inthiscase,itistruethatIbrokemyword,onepledgedbeforethequeen.”

“Why?”Dominicaskedsoftly.“Manyyearsago,myfatherwasanofficerinthearmy.”Moshannasaid.

“Thiswasinthetimewhenthequeen’sfatherwasstillking.Thekinghadfoursiblings,twosistersandtwobrothers.Theking’syoungestbrotherservedinthearmyinthesamecommandasmyfather.Overtime,theybecamefriends,

despitethefactthatmyfatherwasacommoner.Duringabattlewiththedemonsandtheirfollowers,myfathersavedtheprince’slifewhenhisunitwasoverrun.Myfatherrushedhismenin,battlingtheirwaythroughthedemons’followerstotheprince,andpulledhimout.Whentheyreturnedtothecapital,theprincepersuadedthekingtomakemyfatheranoble.Whilehewasaminornoble,hisclosenesswiththeprincemadehimpopularatcourt.”

“Hecontinuedhisclosefriendshipwiththeprincethroughouthislife.TheprincemarriedlateinlifeandIwasfourwhenhisdaughter,Sharin,wasborn.Overtheyears,ourfamiliesstayedcloseandIwasinmanywayslikeanolderbrothertoSharin.WhenIturnedseventeen,Ijoinedthearmy,followinginmyfather’sfootsteps.IhadbeenstationedintheremotereachesofthecountryforseveralyearsbeforeIwastransferredbacktothecapital.WhenIdidreturn,IfoundSharintobeawomangrown,beautifulandgracious.Werenewedourfriendship,butovertimeitbecamesomethingmore.Ourfeelingsdeepenedandwefoundourselvesinlove,somethingneitherofushadanticipated.Wekeptitsecret,forshewaspartoftheroyalfamily,boundupinthepoliticsofcourt,whichmadeourloveproblematictosaytheleast.”

Moshannapaused,hiseyesfaraway,andthencontinued.“Bythistime,theoldkinghaddiedandthequeenwasnewuponherthrone.Thenoblesjockeyedamongstthemselves,eachhousetryingtogetclosetothequeentogainadvantage.DarriusOceansong,theeldestsonfromoneofthemostpowerfulhouses,tookaninterestinSharin.Shewasagrandprizeforanyhousethatshemarriedintoassheacousintothequeen,withroyalblood,thoughnotinthelineofsuccession.Darriuswasafewyearsolderthanme,withareputationasaskilledswordsman,thoughhewasalsoknownforhisambition,aswellashiscruelty.”Hesighed.“Somehow,hefoundoutaboutSharinandI.”

“ItwasduringapublicaudiencewiththequeenwhenheaskedherforSharin’shand.Hewaslookingatmewhenhespokethewords,asmileonhisface,andIrealizedthenthatheknew.Beforethequeencouldrespond,mypassionovercamemeandIchallengedhim,proclaimingmyloveofSharinandmydesiretowedher.”HelookedoveratDominic,facenowgrim.“Iclaimedthatmyhonorwasatstake.Mattersofhonoramongthenoblefamiliesaresettledthroughduelstothedeath.Webothpledgedbeforethequeentomeetincombat,withthevictorgainingtherighttoaskforSharin’shand.Whilehisreputationwiththeswordwouldhavestoppedanyother,Iwasnotgoingtosurrendermylove.Thequeenacceptedmychallengeandboundustomeetinthreedaystimetosettleourdispute.”

“Thenightbeforetheduel,asIwassayingmyprayersintheTemple,Sharincametome.Shetoldmethatherconfidantshadfoundoutthat,ifIweretotriumph,Darrius’familywouldmovetoavengehisdeathbykillingmeandmyparents,aswellasmyyoungersisterandherfamily.Cryingandclingingtome,shebeggedmetoflee,despitemyhonor,tosavemylife.Shetoldmethatshecouldnotbeartobethereasonformydeath.ShesaidshewouldratherendurebeingDarrius’wife,knowingIwasalive,thanseemetakenfromthisworld.Itriedtoreasonwithher,tellingherIwasunafraid,but,inside,Iwasalsotornbythethreattomyparentsandsister.”

Moshannasadlyshookhishead.“So,intheend,Igavewaytoherwishesandfled.IknewthatIwouldbeattaintedasatraitorwhenIdidnotpresentmyselfatthearena,soItookahorseandrodeawayfromthecapital.Duetomyshame,Ichoosenottoseemyparents,butSharintoldmethatshewouldinformthemofthetruereasonwhyIleft.IrodetotheGrayRidges,losingmyselfinthemountains.Imademywayoverthepasses,withnorealdirectionorpurpose.IwasneartheKeepwhenIencounteredTomaris,whowasreturningfromoneofhisquests.HeinvitedmeintotheKeep,listenedtomystoryandofferedmeaplacewithinhisGuard.Thatwasnearlytenyearsago.”

“Tenyears?”Dominicasked.“HowdidRiverbornrecognizeyouafterallthistime?”

“Allsoldiersaregivendescriptionsofthosedeemedtraitors,especiallythosethatbetrayedthequeen.”Moshannasaid.“Itisconsideredagreathonortoreturnatraitortofacethequeen’sjustice.Duetothecircumstancesofmybetrayal,itislikelythatmydescriptionisnearthetopofanytraitor’slist.”

“Sowhydidn’tyoustaybehind?”Dominicdemanded.“Surely,wecouldhavefoundsomeoneelsetoleadusthroughAletonia.”

“TomarisinsistedthatIneededtogo,sohereIam.”Moshannareplied.“IwasconcernedthatIwouldbealiabilityonthismission,buthedismissedthat.ItoldhimthatIthoughthewasmakingagravemistake,butIsworemyselftohimwhenhegavemeaplaceinhisGuard,soIobeyedhiswishes.”

“Whatwillhappentoyouwhenwearriveatthecapital?”Dominicinquired.“Icannotseeagoodendtothis.”

“AsRiverbornsaid,Iwillbetakenbeforethequeen.”Moshannasaid,shrugginghisshoulders.“Itwillbeuptoher,buttheheadsmanisthelikelyoutcome.”

“IwillseeifIcanreasonwithher.”Dominicsaid.“Iamknowntoher,soshemaylisten.”

“We’llsee.”Moshannasaid,lookingresigned.Thenextmorning,withthesunstillbelowthehorizon,theyleftthefortress

andbegantheridetothecapital.Themerchantandhismanwereboundhandandfootandplacedinthewagonbed,withoneofRiverborn’ssoldiersdrivingthewagon.DominicrodeupnearRiverborn,withMoshannaandTaricrightbehindthem.ThereweretwosoldiersridingaheadofDominicastheadvanceguardandfoursoldiersridingbehindthewagon.

“Howfartothecapital,Sergeant?”Dominicaskedastheyrode.“Wewillmakeitacrossthevalleybyearlyafternoonandshouldbeableto

navigatethecoastalhillsbeforedark.”Riverbornreplied.“Daneliasisontheothersideofthehills.”

Thevalley,dottedwithfarmsandanimalranches,rolledbyastheyrodeeast.Theweatherwasmild,withscatteredwhitecloudsdriftingoverhead.Bymid-morning,agreenishsmudgegrewonthehorizonastheydrewclosertothecostalhills.Whentheyarrivedatthehills,Dominicsawthattheyweresmall,similartothehillswestofSanduas,thoughtheywerecoveredinagreengrasswithonlyafewtreesdottingtheland.Astheyrodethroughthehills,thehintofsaltairbegantogrowmoreprominent.Withthesunattheirbacks,lowinthewesternhorizon,theycrossedthelastridge.

Downtheslopeofthehill,Danelias,thecapital,spreadoutinfrontofthem.ThecitywasbuiltalongtheshorelineoftheOuterOcean.Ithadwidestreetsthecrisscrossedthecity,withstonebuildingsbuiltalongtheirpaths.Dominicnoticedthatthebuildingsweremorecrowdednearthewater,withlargerbuildingstothenorth.Healsospottedthepalace,builtonarisetothenorth,overlookingtherestofthecity.Ithaddelicatespiresrisingfromthecornersofthewallthatsurroundedit,thebuildingitselfmadeofalight-coloredstonethatcaughtthelightofthesettingsun.Nearthecenterofthecitywasalargearena,itsovalshapestandingoutfromtherestofthebuildings.Tothesouth,hesawanotherlargebuildingthatwasbuiltnearthewater,surroundedbyagreengarden.

“Whatisthatbuilding,Sergeant?”Dominicasked,pointing.“ThatistheTemple,mylord.”Hereplied.Dominicnoddedandreturnedtostudyingthecity.Itwashemmedintothe

northandsouthwherethehillsranintotheocean,thesidesfacingtheseaworndownintoshearcliffs.Therewasanaturalbreakwatertothenorth,wherearockyoutcroppingjuttedsouth.Aman-madebreakwaterwasbuild,extendingfromthesouthernhillsnorthtocreatealargeharbor.Twolargestonetowers

werebuiltattheendsofthebreakwaters,servingaslighthousesanddefensivepositionsattheharboropening.Intheharbor,Dominicsawatleastadozensailingvesselsandthreelargewoodenshipsthatlookedlikewarships.

Thecityitselfwasprotectedbyalargestonewallthatranfromthenortherncliff,curvingtowardsthehills,thenbacktothesoutherncliff.Theroadtheywereonrantowardsthemaingates.Strongbattlementsandanopenfieldthatpreventedanyenemyfromadvancingunseenprotectedthegatesthemselves.

Theycontinuedon,ridingthroughthegates.Intheopencourtyardbeyondthegates,asoldieronhorsebackhaltedthem.Hewasamiddle-agedman,tallandslim,withadarkcomplexionandjet-blackhair.HewasdressedinasimilarfashionasRiverborn’ssoldiers,buthisarmorwasfiner,withagoldenstripeontheleftshoulderofhisbreastplate.Riverborngavehimasalute,whichwasreturned.

“Whereareyougoing,Sergeant?”Thesoldierdemanded.“Whoaretheseforeigners?”

“IambringingthetraitorDeepwoodtothepalacetofacethequeen’swrath,Captain.”Riverbornstated,pointingatMoshanna.“ThisisDominicofSanduasandBrotherTaric.TheyarecompanionsofDeepwoodandhavepledgedthemselvestohim.ThetwointhebackofthewagonareaccusedbyLordDominictobefollowersofthedemons.Iwasbringingthemtofacethequeenaswell.”

“Iwillsendaridertoinformthequeen.”Thesoldiersaid.Hebeckonedoveranothersoldieronhorsebackandsenthimridingofftowardsthepalace.Theofficerturnedbacktothem.“Youhavebroughtmuchhonoruponyourself,Sergeant.Haveyourmenwaithere.Iwillhavemysoldiersprovideanescorttothepalace.”

“Welcome,LordDominic.”Themansaid,noddinghishead.“IamCaptainRenralStoneworth.Ihaveheardthestoriesofyourendlesspursuitofthedemons.Itwillbemyhonortoescortyoutothequeen.”

“Thankyou,CaptainStoneworth.”Dominicreplied.Hegesturedtowardsthepalace.“Shouldwecontinue?”

“Ofcourse,Demonhunter.”Stoneworthsaid.Hecalledoverhismen,havingthemformuparoundthesmallpartywhileRiverborn’ssoldierswentovertoanearbybuilding.Oncehewassatisfied,theystarteduptheroadthatledtothepalace.

Thesunhadsetbythenandthetorchlighterswereout,movingtoandfromthelamppoststhatlinedtheroad.Theyreceivedsomecuriouslooksfromthe

peopleinthestreetsastheyrodepast,buttheyseemedfairlyuninterestedforthemostpart.Thepalacegrewlargerastheyrodecloser,thelightsofthewatchtorchesflaringintothedarkeningsky.

Theywereseveralblocksfromthepalacewhenapartyoftwentyarmoredmenonhorsebacksuddenlyrodeoutofthesidestreetsandblockedtheirway.Stoneworthhaltedhismen,thenrodeslightlyforwardofthegroup.

“Moveaside!”Heordered.“Youareinterferingwiththepassageofthequeen’ssoldiers.”

Amanrodefromthecrowd,dressedinfinedarkclothes,ashiningbreastplatevisibleunderthecloakthehungfromhisshoulders.Hewastallandrangy,hisdarkfaceruggedlyhandsome.HehadahaughtylookonhisfaceashefacedStoneworth,hishandrestingonhisswordhilt.Outofthecornerofhiseye,DominicsawMoshannastiffen,hisfacegoingflat.

“IamLordDarrius,Captain.”Themansaid,hiseyesonMoshanna.“Mymenwilldealwiththistraitorandhiscompanions.”HecalledmockinglyovertoMoshanna.“Iwillhaveyourheadbeforethenightends,Deepwood.

“Withallduerespect,LordDarrius,thisisamatterforthequeen.”Stoneworthstated,sittingstifflyinhissaddle,thoughhelookedworried.“Youmayaccompanyustothepalace,butIhavegivenmywordtotheDemonhuntertotakehimtothequeen.”

“Youareondangerousgroundhere,Captain.”Darriussaid,turninghisgazetoStoneworth.“Ifyoudonotreleasethetraitortome,Iwillbeforcedtotakestepstoretainmyhonor.”Hegrippedhissword,itsmeaningnotlostonStoneworth.

“Iwillnotreleasehimtoyouhere,LordDarrius.”Stoneworthsaid,swallowinghard,ashedrewhisownsword.“Defensivepositions!”Hecalledtohissolders,whodrewtheirownswordsandspreadouttosurroundtheparty.HecontinuedtofaceDarrius.“Onlybythequeen’scommandwillIturnhimovertoyou.”

Darriuslaughedashesignaledhismen.Theydrewtheirweaponsandbegantomoveforward.DominicmotionedTarictostaybehindhimashedrewhisownsword.Moshanna’sswordwasalreadyinhishand,hiseyesfixedonDarrius.

Beforethebattlecouldbejoined,anewsoundintruded.Outofthenightcametherhythmicbeatofmenmarchinginunisonandthefaintechoofjinglingmetal.FrombehindDarrius’men,alargegroupofsoldiersappearedinthestreetfromthedirectionofthepalace,movingatanear-runinorderedrows,

theirlongspearsheldattheready.Theywereledbyaverylargeman,hisheadshavedbald,dressedinaheavy

breastplate,witharmorcoveringhisarms,andleatherpantswithcloseknitsteelringsabovehisdarkleatherboots.Therewerefourgoldenstripesonhisbreastplateandalargewarhammerinhishands.

Withoutpausing,heshoulderedhiswaythroughDarrius’menwhilehismenbegantoformaringaroundthem.HestrodeovertowhereDarriuswassittingonhishorse.

“Whatmadnessisthis,LordDarrius?”Themansaid,hisvoicedeepandcommanding.“Youknowbetterthantointerferewiththequeen’ssoldiers.”

AngertwistedDarrius’face,buthisvoicewassuddenlycautiouswhenheaddressedtheman.“Itisamatterofpersonalhonor,CommanderFarrious.ThetraitorDeepwoodinsultedmyhonorandthatdemandsretribution.”

“Itisthequeen’splacetodeterminethat,mylord.”Farriousstatedbluntly.HegesturedtowardsDarrius’soldiers.“DismissyourmenandaccompanymetothepalaceorIwillorderthemdispersed.”Atthat,Farrious’soldiersleveledtheirspearsatDarrius’men,withatleasttwospearsaimedateachone.

Darriuslookedaround,hisfrustrationclearonhisface.Heseemedtobeconsideringresistance,butinsteadcalledovertohismen.“Loweryourweaponsandreturntothebarracks.Iwillgotothepalaceandspeakwiththequeen.”WithalastbalefullookatMoshanna,heturnedhishorseandrodetowardsthepalace,Farrious’soldiersmakingapathforhim.

“Thatwasbravelydone,CaptainStoneworth,butfoolish.”Farrioussaid,shakinghisheadslightly.“LordDarriusisnotamanwhotakesslightslightly.IwillmakesuretosendmyQueen’sGuardwithyouwhenyoureturntoyourbarracks.”Stoneworthnoddedhishead.

“Youmayputupyoursword,LordDominic.”FarrioussaidashefacedDominic.“Youwillnotbemolestedagain.IamNundalFarrious,CommanderoftheQueen’sGuard,andIwillescortyoutoherpresence.”Aslightsmilecrossedhisface.“Idon’tknowifyourememberme,butIaccompaniedthequeenwhenshevisitedSanduasthoselongyearsago.”

“Youareahardmantomiss,CommanderFarrious.”Dominicrepliedashesheathedhissword.“Youandthatoversizedmalletofyourswerethetopicofmuchdiscussionamongstmytroops,mostofitonhowtoavoidoffendingyou.”

Farriouslaughed,thedeepsoundechoingoffthenearbywalls.“Iwonderedwhyeveryonewassopleasanttome.”

Dominicgrinnedslightly.“Ididtrainmysoldierstothinkcritically.”

Farriouschuckledsomemore,shakinghishead.Hismirthfaded.“Weneedtocontinuetothepalace.Youareexpected.”Hemovedovertohistroops,callingoutorders.Theyformeduparoundtheparty,spearsready,andatFarrious’command,movedforward.

Theyarrivedatthepalace,passingthroughthegatesandhaltednearthemainentrance.Thedoorsweremadeofsteel,inlaidwithgoldrelief,andstoodopen.Farrious’soldierspulledthemerchantandhismanfromthewagon,takingthemunderguard,whiletheothersdismounted.Satisfiedwithwhathesaw,Farriousledtheminside.Theentryhallwasasinglelargeroomthatstretchedthewidthofthepalace,thestonewallstallandcoveredincarvings,theroofaseriesofdomes.Acrossthehallwasanothersetofdoors,guardedbyfouroftheQueen’sGuard.

FollowingFarrious,theypassedthroughthedoorsintothethroneroom.Theroomwassimilartotheentryhall,withahighroofandcarvedstonewalls.Thisroomwasfilledwithpeople,mostinfineclothing,liningbothsidesofthelargebluecarpetthatledtoatalldaiswithasinglechairontop.Thethronewasmadeofalight,highlypolishedwood,high-backedandintricatelycarved.Onthethronesatthequeen.

NeniaWindrun,QueenofAletonia,wasanolderwoman,herdarkhairstreakedwithgray.Despitethelinesonherface,Dominicsawtheremnantsofherformerbeauty.Shehadbeensliminheryouth,thoughshenowappearedthinandslightlyfrail.Herdarkeyeswerestillsharp,though;theintensitywasasDominicremembered.

Atallmandressedinpalacelivery,standingnexttothethrone,calledout.“Comeforwardandapproachthequeen.”Hisvoicecarriedthroughthehall.

Theystoppedbeforethethrone,Farrious,Moshannaandthesoldiersdroppingtooneknee,whileDominicandTaricbowed.Themerchantandhismanwereshovedtothefloor,forcedtosprawloutontheirstomachs.

“WelcometoAletonia,LordDominicandBrotherCleric.”Thequeengreetedthemwarmly.“WehavenotreceivedmanyvisitorsfromSanduasoverthelastfewyears.”

ShemotionedtoDominic.“Approachme,mylord.”Shesaid.“Ithasbeenmanyyearssincewesaweachotherlast.”

Dominicclimbedthedais,stoppingtwostepsfromthetop,bringinghimtoeyelevelwiththequeen.Shereachedoutandtouchedhisface;herfingerswarmastheytracedhisscars.Hesawsadnessinhereyeswhenshespoke.

“IwasdevastatedwhenIheardofwhathappenedtomybelovedElidonaand

yourson.”Thequeensaidsoftly.“Youhavemyundyingsympathy.”“Youhonorme,YourMajesty.”Dominicreplied.“Thehonorismine,Dominic.”Thequeenreplied.“IlovedElidonaasif

sheweremyownfleshandblood.Youhonorhermemorywithyourunceasingwaronthedemons.”

Sheleanedforward.“WhyareyouwithMoshannaDeepwood?”Sheaskedquietly.“Hispresencecomplicatesmatters.Areyouawareofwhathehasdone?”

“Iam,YourMajesty.”Dominicrepliedsoftly,awarethattheothersinthecourtweretryingtohear.“However,Ineedhim.Weareonaquestofgreatimportance,onethatcouldbringanendtothedemons.Wewouldhavecontinuedthatquest,unseen,butforBrotherTaric’sinsistencethatthetwodemonfollowersonthegroundreceiveatrial.Iwouldhavekilledthemandbeendonewithit,butheconvincedmetoapproachyoursoldiers.Moshannaknewwhatcouldhappen,butcameanyway.”

“Whatdoyouseekthatcanputanendtothedemonscourge?”Thequeenasked.

“Itisanobjectofgreatpower,rumoredtobeinthefarsouth,neartheWilds.”Dominicresponded.“Wehopedtoapproachinsecret,thethreeofusridingquickly,lestthedemonsbecomeawareofourmissionandtakestepstocounterus.Theremaybedemonsthere,butwewillnotknowuntilwereachthelocation.”

Thequeensatthereforafewmoments,thinking.“ThatissomethingIwouldliketosee,butgettingyououtofthecitymaybedifficult.”SheglancedoveratDarrius.“LordDarriusistheheadofhishouse,onethatisrichandinfluential.IcannotbeseenasforgivingMoshanna’sbrokenvow,thoughIknowthetruereasonforit.”

ShesawthesurpriseinDominic’seyes.Shesmiledbriefly.“Myyoungcousinhastoldmeeverything.TherewasnoproofthatDarrius’familymadethethreats,soIcouldnotriskmovingagainstthem.Outofcaution,IdidtakeDeepwood’sfamilyundermyprotection,quietlyandwithoutthemknowing.”

“Sowhatnow,YourMajesty?”Dominicinquired.“Stepback,Dominic,andyouwillsee.”Shetoldhimwithanotherbrief

smile.WhenDominicreturnedtostandnexttoFarrious,thequeenspoke.“Lord

DominicofSanduasisafriendofAletoniaandwillbetreatedassuch.”Shesaidforcefully.“HehasinformedmeofthereasonforhisvisitandIfindthatI

willsupporthim,thoughthecausewillremainsecret.”Shepointedtothetwolyingontheground.“Takethesetwodemonfollowerstothedungeon,wheretheycanawaittheirfate.”Farrioussoldierscomplied,draggingthetwofromthehall.

“SisterAnatan.”Thequeencalled,lookingaroundthecrowd.“Iamhere.”Awomanindarkbluerobesreplied,steppingforward.She

wasarobustwoman,herdarkwavyhairhangingdowntohershoulders.Shemovedwithaneasygracethatbeliedhersize.

“LordDominic,BrotherTaric,thisisSisterAnatan,theChiefClericofAletonia.”Thequeenintroducedher.SheturnedtoAnatan.“Sister,IwouldlikethreeclericstoaccompanyLordDominicwhenheleaveshere,tosupportBrotherTaric.Theyshouldbestrongintheirpower.”

“Ofcourse,YourMajesty.”Anatansaidwithabow.“Iwillsendasmallpartyofsoldierswithyouaswell,Dominic.Thatshould

preventanyfurthermisunderstandings.”Thequeensaid.SheturnedtoFarrious.“Commander,pleasemakesurethatLordDominicisresuppliedandhavetenQueen’sGuardreadytoridebythemorning.”Farriousnodded.

“Thatleavesuswiththematterofthetraitor,MoshannaDeepwood.”Shesaid,lookingdownathim.“Youbrokeyoursacredvowtome,damningyourself.ForthatIshouldsendyoutotheheadsman.”Shepaused,andthencontinued.“However,LordDominichastoldmethatherequiresyourpresenceonhismission.Ihavedecidedtosupporthim,soIcannotdenyhimyourassistance.”

“Wouldyoulethimgofree?!”Darriusdemandedloudly,steppingforward.“Youcannotbeserious.Youmust-”Hecutoffwhenthequeenrosefromherthrone.

“Cannot?Must?”Thequeensaidharshly.“Youforgetyourself,LordDarrius.Ifyouthinkyoucandemandanythingfrommeinmyownthroneroom,youaresadlymistaken.IfyousayanotherwordthatIfindunwelcome,Iwillhaveyoujointhedemonfollowersinthedungeon.”

Darriusbitbackareply,hiseyesstillangry,thenbowed.“Ofcourse,YourMajesty.Pleaseforgiveme.IfImayask,willyouforgivehimhiscrime?”

“No,LordDarrius.”Thequeensaidasshesatbackdown.“IamonlygrantinghimparoletoassistLordDominic.Hefacespossibledeathonthismission,butifhesurvives,hewillreturntofacemyjustice.”SheturnedtoDominic.“Iwillrequireyourpledgeonthis,LordDominic,thatyouwillbringMoshannaDeepwoodbacktothecapital,onceyourmissioniscomplete.You

areamanofhonor,soallcantrustyourword.”DominiclookedoveratMoshanna,thequestioninhiseyes.Moshanna

nodded.Dominicfacedthequeen.“Onmyhonor,Idosopledge,YourMajesty.”

CHAPTERSIXTEENOntheothersideoftheGrayRidges,withthetorchlightsguidinghisway,

Marcuswascrossingthepalacecourtyard,walkingslowlyandenjoyingthebrisknightair.Heglanceduptoseethestarsshiningbrightlyoverhead,brilliantpointsoflightintheinkyblacksky.

HewasreturningtothepalaceaftercheckingonNorlanandhisfamily.Madalinhadinsistedthathestayfortheeveningmeal,pilingfoodonhisplateuntilhewasfull,thenheandNorlanhadsatoutsideforawhile,talkingoveramugofale.

Thatiswhatafunctioningfamilydoes.Hethoughttohimself,shakinghishead.NotthatIwouldknowanythingaboutafunctioningfamily.

Thethoughtofhisfamilyputadamperonhisgoodmood.Hewasabitsurprisedthattheywerestillatthepalace,havingassumedthattheywouldhavereturnedtotheirholdingsonceKeriawasbacksafely.Hewasgladtobeabletospendsometimewithhisfather,butthattimewaslimitedashisfatherwasofteninmeetingswiththeking.

HisfatherhadfinallyrelentedandallowedhimtoreturntohisquarterswiththeRoyalGuard.Theatmosphereinhisparent’squartershadbeenstifling,havingtoendureRolas’presencewithallthegracehecouldmuster.Thesurprisingthinghadbeenwhenhismotherhadspokenupandsupportedhim,claimingthatshewishedforsomepeaceandquiet.Atleastathisquarters,hecouldfindDaenandNathenwhenheneededtotalk.

Well,atleastDaen.Hechuckledtohimself.NathenhadgottenintosometroublewiththeRoyalGuard’scommander.Nathenhadletlooseoneofhiswitticismsaboutanorderthathadcomedownregardingtheiruniforms.Unfortunatelyforhim,CommanderHelgrantwaspassingbyandoverheard.AfterbeingtakentotaskbyHelgrant,whochastisedhimforlackinggoodorderanddiscipline,Nathenwassenttoworkinthedungeons,thedutythatallthesoldiersoftheRoyalGuardhated,pullingtheovernightshift.Nathenhadbeenmoresubduedsincehestartedworkingthere.Atleast,whereanyonebutDaenandIcouldhear.

Notthathewasspendingthatmuchtimeinhisquarters.AfewdaysafterJakeleft,Keriahadcometohim.Theyhadgoneforawalkaroundthepalacegrounds,stoppinginaquietalcovethatwashiddenfromview.Theyhadsat

closetogetheronthesmallbenchandspokeoftheirfeelingsforoneanother.Sayingthatshehadbeenactingfoolish,KeriaaskedforhisforgivenessforherinterestinJake.

“Iknownowthatitwasnevertobe,buthewassomeonenewandexciting,maybeevenanescapefrommyduties.”Shehadtoldhim,tearsinhereyes.“Hedidcomeafterme,fightingthedemonstorescueme.Thatwouldmakemostwomenconsidersuchaman.”Shetookhishand.“Butyouwerealsothere,fightingforme.Withouttheclerics’power,youwereprobablymostatrisk.Yet,youstillcame.Iknowthatinencouraginghim,Ihavehurtyou.Youhavebeenmyclosestfriend,mydefenderandrescuer,butIdonotdeserveyou.Iwillunderstandifyoudonotwishtoseemeagain.”

“Keria,IwillnotsaythatyourfascinationwithJakedidnotbotherme.”Hehadreplied.“Butthereisnothingtoforgive.YouknowthatIloveyou,thatIwillendureanythingforyou.Weareandalwayswillbefriends,butyouknowIwishforustobemorethanthat.”

Shehadlookedathim,notspeaking,thengentlytookhisheadintoherhands,leanedinandkissedhim.Hepulledhertightagainsthim,relishingthefeelingofhernexttohim.Whentheyheardsomeonepassingby,theyquicklybroketheirembrace,lookingaround,buttheywerenotseen.Hehadfelttheexcitementandjoyofknowingthatshewashis.

“Howcanwemakethisformal,Marcus?”Sheasked,stillholdinghishand.“Myfatherdoesnotseemedinclinedtoconsideryouasasuitor.”

“Wecouldalwaysrunoff.”Hesaidlightly.“I’msurewecouldfindanicecottagesomewhere,farawayfromthepalaceanditspolitics.Maybetakeupfarmingorsomeotherhonestliving.”

Kerialaughedsoftly,picturingthetwoofthemworkingtheground.“Untilmyfather’ssoldierstrackedusdown.Idon’tthinkeitherofuswouldlikewhatcameafterthat.”

“Iwillspeakwithmyfather.”Hehadsaid.“Maybehecouldconvinceyourfathertoallowthismatch.”

Truetohisword,hehadspokentohisfatherthatveryevening.Hisfatherseemedpleased,pouringsomewine,andassuredhimthathewouldpressthecasewiththeking.Hismotherhadsattheresilently,aneutrallookonherface,listeningbutnotparticipatingintheconversation.Hehadnotseenhisfathermuchsincethatnight,butwasconfidentthathewasengagingthekingduringtheirmeetings.

Afterthatnight,hehadspentmostofhisfreetimewithKeria.Theyhadto

becircumspect,buttheyseemedabletofindsomeprivacy,eveninapalacefullofservants.Herelishedthosetimes,justthetwoofthem,holdingeachother,kissingandtalkingquietly,whilekeepinganearoutforanyinterlopers.Thethoughtmadehimsmile.

“Marcus!”HeheardDaenshout,comingfromthedirectionofthepalace.HeglancedoverandsawDaenrunningovertohim.

“Whatisit,Daen?”Marcusaskedwhenhegotclose.“Iwassenttofindyou.”Hisfriendreplied.“Thekinghascalledthecourt

togetherforanannouncement.Yourpresenceisrequired.”“Whatisitabout?”Marcusaskedashefellinbesidehisfriend.“Idon’tknowandIdidnotask.”Daenstated.“AllIwastoldwastofind

you.”Theymovedbriskly,almostajog.Marcusdidnotwanttobethereasonfor

delayingtheking’sannouncement.Theyenteredthepalacecourtyardandheadedtothenearestentrance.Whentheyreachedahallwaynearthethroneroom,Daenstopped.

“Unfortunately,Iwasnotaskedtoattend.”Hesaid.“Iwillwaitforyouhere;youcantellmewhathappenedafter.”

Marcusnoddedandcontinuedintothethroneroom.Hesawthatalmosteveryonefromcourtwashere.Fortunately,thekingwasnotyethere,soMarcusrelaxed.Hismotherandbrotherwerestandingnearthedais,hisfathermarkedlyabsent,buthespottedJonasstandingnearthecentercarpet,hisarmswrappedaroundhisstaff,chattingwithsomeofthepeoplenexttohim.Marcusdecidedtogostandwithhim.Jonasnoddedtohimwhenhestopped,continuingtospeakwiththepersonnexthim.

JonashadcalledMarcustotheTemplethedaythatJakeleft.HewantedtoensurethatMarcusunderstoodtheneedforsecrecyregardingJake’scondition.OnceJonaswassatisfiedwithMarcus’discretion,hetoldhimsomeofwhathadhappened;specificallythatJakewaslookingforapowerfulartifact.Marcusknewthathewasnotbeingtoldeverything,buthefelthonoredthatJonaswouldtrusthimwiththeinformationthathedidreceive.

JonashadalsoaskedMarcustobealertforanysignsofthedemons’spyinthepalace.Hewantedtofindoutthespy’sidentityandneutralizethatperson.JonasandMarcushadmetseveraltimesafterthat,sharinginformationandsometimesjusttalking.MarcuscouldtellJonaswasworriedaboutJake,HailynandDominic,sohetriedtobeavailableifJonaswantedtospeak.Duringoneofthesesessions,MarcushadtoldJonasofhisintentionstowardsKeria.Jonashad

simplysmiledandwishedhimgoodluck.Keriacameintothehallthroughthedoorsnearthedais.Shenoddedand

spokewiththenoblesasshemadeherwaytoherchair.Whenshesatdown,shelookedoveratMarcus,smilingbroadly.Hereturnedthesmile,givingheranodofhishead.

“Youshouldbemoresubtle.”Jonassaidquietly,hiseyesknowing.Hemadeaslightgesturetowardstheassemblednobles.“Youwillsetthetongueswaggingwiththislot.Remembertobepatient.AllthingscomeintheOne’stime.”

BeforeMarcuscouldreply,theking’sheraldcameintothehallandbangedhisstaffthreetimes.Thecrowdquieted.“Thekingcomes!”Hecalledout.

Marcuswatchedasthekingenteredthehall,followedbyhisfather.Thekingclimbedthedaisandsatonhisthrone,Marcus’fatherstandingnexttohim.Marcusnoticedthatthekingseemedratherpale,athinsheenofsweatvisibleonhisface.HeglancedoveraJonas,whowaslookingonwithconcerninhiseyes.

Whenthekingspoke,however,hisvoicesoundedstrong,carryingthroughoutthehall.“Ihavecalledyoutogethertomakeahappyannouncement.Recenteventshavepromptedmetoconsidertheneedformydaughtertomarryandproduceanheir.Asafather,Ihadhopedtodelaythatdayforawhilelonger.Butasking,Icannotriskputtingtherealminjeopardy.”

“So,IhavehadaseriesofdiscussionswithLordMarcelas.Wehaveagreedthatthebestwaytoservetherealmistojoinourhouses.”Thekingannounced.“Therefore,mydaughter,Keria,PrincessoftheRealm,istobemarried.”

Thehalleruptedincheersandapplause.Marcus,notquitebelievingwhathewashearing,lookedoveratKeria,catchinghereye,seeingjoythereandexchangingsmiles.

Whenthecrowdquieted,thekingcontinued.“Intendaystime,thePrincessKeriawillmarryRolas,LordMarcelas’eldestson.”

Marcus,stunnedasifhehadbeenpunchedinthestomach,lookedoverandsawRolasstaringathim,acruelsmileonhisface.

…Jonaskepthisfaceneutral,thoughhewasshockedbytheannouncement.

HecaughtmovementnexttohimandreachedovertostopMarcus,butwastoolate.

“NO!”Marcusshouted,rageanddisbeliefonhisface,ashesteppedintothecenterofthehall.“Iwillnotallowit!”

“Controlyourself,SirMarcus!”Thekingsaidsternly,risingfromhis

throne.“Itisnotyourplacetodisallowanything.”“Why,Father?”Keriacriedout,risingfromherchair,dismayonherface.

“Youdidnotevenconsultme!”“Father,howcanyoudothistome?!”Marcussaidatthesametime,

ignoringtheking.“YouknowofmyfeelingsforKeria.”“Marcus!”Hisfatherreplied,steppingforward.“Youshameyourself.This

isagreathonorforthefamilyandyourbrother.Donotallowyourjealousytoruinit!”

“Jealousy?!”Marcusretorted.“Ifeelnothingbutbetrayal!”“ENOUGH!”Thekingshouted,slamminghisfistdownonthearmofthe

throne.ThehallwentsilentasthekingbeckonedtotheRoyalGuardstandingnearby.

“SirMarcus,youwillremoveyourselffromthehallwithoutanotherword.”Thekingstatedinamorenormalvoice,thoughhisbodyshook.“Youaresworntoobeyme,sohonoryouroath.”

“Please,YourMajesty.”Marcusbegan,butthekingcuthimoff.“SirMarcus,youarebanishedfromthepalaceuntilafterthewedding.”The

kingorderedcurtly.“SpeakagainandIwillbanishyoufromthecity.”JonashadmovednexttoMarcus,puttinganarmaroundhim,squeezinghis

shoulder.Hecouldfeelhimshakefromhisrepressedrage.“Iwillmakesureheobeysyou,YourMajesty.”Jonassaidcalmly.“Pleaseforgivehim.Heisstillyoung.”

“Leave,Marcus.”Jonaswhisperedtohim.“GototheTemple.Iwillfindaplaceforyoutostayuntilthiscanberesolved.”

Marcusnoddedsharply,steppingaway.Hemadeabowtotheking,hiseyesstillonKeria,thenspunonhisheelandstrodefromtheroom,theRoyalGuardtrailinghim.

Thekingsatbackdown,wipinghisforehead,hisbodystillshaking.Jonasapproached,concerned.“Youlookunwell,Majesty.”Hesaidcautiously,hisbodyshiningashecalleduphispower.“MayIexamineyou?”

Thekinglookeddown,seeingJonasapproach,thenhelduphishand.“No,BrotherJonas.”Thekingsaid.“Iamsimplytired.Iwillbefinewithsomerest.”

“ItwouldbebestifImadesure.”Jonaspressed.“Someillnessescanbeconfusedwithweariness.”

“No,Isaid!”Thekingstatedcurtly.“Willnooneobeymethisevening?!”“Forgiveme,YourMajesty.”Jonassaid,bowing.“Ididnotmeantoinsult

you.”“ItmaybebestifIretire.”Thekingsaid,rising.HelookedoveratMarcus’

father.“Forgiveme,LordMarcelas.ThisisahappynightforbothofusandIallowedittoberuined.”

“Nonsense,YourMajesty.”Marcelassaid,bowingdeeply.“ItisIwhooweyouanapologyformyson’sbehavior.”

“Pleaseenjoytherestofthenight.”Thekingsaid.Heleftthehall,withKeriarightbehindhim,pleadingquietly.

JonaswatchedasthenoblesgatheredtocongratulateLordMarcelas,LadyAreliaandRolas.Hequietlymovedtowardstheexits,troubledbywhathadjustoccurred.Somethingwasseriouslyamiss,heknew,butwasnotsurewheretobegintofindoutwhatitwas.

Lettinghispowergo,heleftthepalace,hopingtocalmdownMarcusandpreventhimfromdoingsomethingevenmorefoolish.

…Nearmidnight,withacoolbreezeblowingdownfromtheGrayRidges,

LieutenantJeffreysstoodonthebattlementsoverlookingtheapproachtotheEastGate,leaningagainstthestonesandcheckingthearealitbythewatchtorches.Yawning,hestretchedandmovedaround,tryingtofightoffsleep.Hewasstilladjustingtothenightshift.Hewasfillinginfortheregularnightofficer,whowasgoneonleavetovisitfamily.

Absently,herubbedathiseyepatchoverwherehislefteyehadbeen,stillnotcomfortablewearingit.Helostthateyeinthebattleofthecity,reactingtooslowlytoaswingfromahalf-man,thetipoftheswordstrikingtheeye.Bythetimethebattledieddownandtheclericswereabletoreachhim,theeyehadbeendamagedtooseverelytosave,despitetheirbestefforts.

That’stheriskofbeingasoldier.Hethoughtsagaciously.Hiswifewassupportive,buthadbeengentlysuggestingthatperhapsitwastimeforanotherlineofwork.Giveneverythingthathappened,hewouldhavebeenreceptivetothatidea,exceptthathewaspromotedafterthebattle.Hedidnotseehowhecouldturnitdown,giventheextracoinandincreasedsocialstatus.So,hewasnowthedeputycommanderofthedaywatchontheEastGate.

Thesoundofapproachinghorsesdrewhisattentionbacktowardsthecity.Itisastrangetimeforaride,especiallysincethegatesareclosed.Hethought.Fromthesound,itappearedtobeafairlylargeparty.Hemadehiswayovertothestairsandheadeddowntothegatearea.

Whenhearrived,hesawadozenmenonhorseback,comingtoahaltnear

thegate.HenotedthattheywerearmedandwearingthesymbolofLordMarcelas’house.Helookedatthebigmanslightlyoutinfrontoftherest.Heraisedahandingreeting.“Alittlelateintheeveningforaride,isn’tit?”Heasked.

“Itisn’tforpleasure,Icanassureyou.”Themanreplied.“Iwouldratherbebackinbedwithmywoman.”HepulledoutaparchmentandhandedittoJeffreys.“Weareheretoprovideanescortforanarrivingprisoner.”

“Aprisoneratthishour?”Jeffreyssaidincredulously.“Ourstandingordersaretokeepthegateclosedandlockeduntildawn.”Helookedatthemenmoreclosely.“Idon’tseeanyonefromtheRoyalGuard.Theyareinchargeofthedungeons.”

“WehavebeentaskedbythekingandLordMarcelastosupporttheRoyalGuardwhilewearehereinthecity.Wedrewtheshortstrawandgotthedungeons.”Themansaidwithashrug.Hepointedattheparchment.“Thosearemyorders,signedbythekinghimself.”

Jeffreysopenedtheparchment,adjustingittocatchthemostlight.Thebanner-menofLordMarcelasareoperatingundermyorders.

Thegateistobeopenedtoallowthetransferofaprisoner.LordMarcelas’banner-menwillescorttheprisonertothedungeons.Thisisanimportantmatterfortherealm.Provideanyaidrequiredandfollowtheirdirections.

Theparchmentwassignedbytheking,overtheroyalseal.Jeffreysshookhishead.I’mnotsurewhatthesenoblesarethinkingattimes.

“Whenistheprisonerdue?”Jeffreysasked,handingtheparchmentback.“Iwastoldmidnight.”Themanreplied.“Theymaybebehindschedule.”“Ridersandawagonapproaching,Lieutenant.”Oneofthearcherscalled

down.“Iguesstheyareontime.”Themansaidwithasmile.“Openthegates,

thendrawyourmenback.”“Asyouwish.”Jeffreysreplied.Hewentovertothegate,releasingthe

locks,andwentintothegatehouse.Hehadhismenopenthegate.Oncethegatewasopen,heorderedthemtostaywheretheywere.Hewentoutsideandclimbedthestairstothebattlementsonthewall.Thereheorderedthearcherstomovedownthewalluntilthewagonwassafelyinsideandhadleftthegatearea.

Beforeheclimbeddown,heglancedoverthewallandsawthewagonapproaching.Itwasalargewagon,pulledbysixhorseswithasingledriver,madeofdarkwoodboundinsteel.Insteadofawagonbed,therewasawooden

cell,thewallsandroofbuiltofthesamethickwood,withoutanywindows.Whilehetoldhimselfthatitwasonlyawagon,therewassomethingaboutitthathedidnotlike.Eightmenonhorsebackwereescortingthewagon,allwearingLordMarcelas’symbol.

Hewentdowntocheckthegate,thenorderedhismentopullbackuntilthewagonpassed.Theywatchedfromadistanceasthemenandthenthewagonenteredthecity.Jeffreysfeltachillgothroughhisbodyasthewagonslowlyrolledpast,thewoodenwheelscreakingagainstthepavingstones.Itwasonlyacoupleofminutesbeforeitwasoutofthecourtyardandintothecity.

Thelargemancameridingover.“Thankyouforyourcooperation,Lieutenant.”Hesaidwithanamusedsmileonhisface.“Youmaynowshutthegatebeforesomethinggetsin.”Withthat,heturnedandrodeoffafterthewagon.

Jeffreysquicklygothismentoclosethegate.Herelockedit,double-checkinghisworkandwentintothegatehousetogetsomethingtodrinkandfigureouthowtoexplainthisincidentinthedutyofficer’slog.

…Withthelateafternoonsunsinkinglowinthehorizon,Nathenwasgladto

beoutside,breathinginthefreshair,takinghistimeheadingtotheTemple.HehadamessageforBrotherJonas,butfortunately,therehadbeennoordertorun.

Heabsolutelyhatedworkinginthedungeons.DespitetheGuard’seffortstokeepthemclean,theyweredarkanddank,withtheodorofunwashedmenfillingtheplace.Hesniffedhisclothes,surethesmellhadpermeatedthecloth.

Ofallofthethingshehadseenandheardsinceworkinginthedungeons,lastnighthadbeenstrangestyet.ItwaslateinthenightwhenagroupofLordMarcelasmenshowedup.Theyhadwavedaroundanorderfromtheking,andthenhadalloftheRoyalGuardmovetothefarendofthedungeons,closingthedoorsbehindthem.Then,aboutahalf-hourlater,theyopenedthedoorsandtoldtheRoyalGuardthatthelowestlevelwasoff-limitstoanybutLordMarcelas’men.Hedidnotlikethelowerlevelsanyway,sothatwasfinewithhim.

Oneday,Iwilllearntokeepmyfatmouthshut.Hethought.Hedidnotthinkthatwhathesaidwarrantedthepunishment,somethingaboutlookingprettyenoughthattheirenemieswouldbesmittenandsurrendertotheircharms,butthenagain,Helgrantdidnotseemtopossessasenseofhumor.

HehopedtoseeMarcuswhilehewasattheTemple.Whenhehadgottenoffshift,DaenhadtoldhimwhathadhappenedlastnightandofMarcus’banishment.I’mtheonewhoshootsoffmymouth,notMarcus.Hewouldhave

likedtoseeit,though.HecouldonlyrememberacoupleoftimesthatMarcushadgottenreallyangry;mostofthetime,hewascalmandcollected.Marcusangryandshoutinginfrontofthekingwouldhavebeensomethingtosee.

WhenhereachedtheTemplegrounds,hefoundanapprenticetoleadhimtoJonas.JonaswassittinginthesmallsanctuaryoffthemainTemple,talkingquietlywithanolderfemaleclericwithgray-streakedhair.

Nathensketchedaquickbow.“Greetings,BrotherJonas.Ihavebeensenttorequestyourpresenceatthedungeons.Anewprisonerisapparentlyverysick.Sincetheyarenotsurewhatisailinghim,Iwastoaskforyou.”

“Ofcourse.”Jonasreplied,rising.Nathensawhimlookingcloselyathisface.“Aren’tyouoneofMarcus’friends?Nathen,Ibelieve;theonewholikescourtingtrouble.”

“Yesandno,Brother.”Nathensaidwithasmile.“IamNathen,butIwouldnotsayIlikecourtingtrouble.Iblameitonmyparentsformypoorupbringing.”Hefinishedwithaplomb.

Jonaschuckled,clappinghimontheshoulder.“Well,Nathen.Letusbeoff.”

“IsMarcushere?Iwouldliketoseehim,ifIcould.”Nathenasked.“I’msorry,butheisatMastersmithNorlan’s.”Jonasstated.“I’msureyou

heardaboutwhathappenedlastnight.”Justmyluck.Nathenthought,shrugging.HewasturningtoleadJonas

awaywhenayoungmaleapprenticecamerunningin.“MasterJonas,pleasecomequickly!”Theboysaid,panting.Jonas

interruptedtheboybyraisingahand.“Wait!”Jonassaidfirmly.“Takeabreathandspeakslowly.Aclericmust

remaincalmwhenothersarefallingapart.”Theboyflushedbrightred,embarrassed.Hedidashewastold.Afterhe

releasedthebreath,hespoke,choosinghiswordscarefully.“Forgiveme,Master,butayoungchildwasbroughtintotheclinic.Sheranintotheroadwayandwasstruckbyawagon.Thewagonwasfullyloadedwhenitranoverher.Sheisneardeath.”

Jonasseemedtohesitate,concernonhisface,butthefemaleclericspokeup.“Seetothechild,Jonas.IwillgowithyoungNathenhereandcheckonthisprisoner.”

“Thankyou,Silvan.”Jonassaid,soundingrelieved.Hefollowedtheapprenticeout,movingquickly.

“Letusgo,Nathen.”Silvansaid.“Iwouldliketogetbackbeforeitgetstoo

late.”“Rightaway,Sister.”Hesaidwithamischievousgrin.Whileheledherbacktothedungeons,hecontinuedtotrytogetherto

laugh.Shesmiledathisjokes,butnotevenachucklefromher.Ialwaysseemtogettheserioustypes.Hethoughtdisappointedly.

ThedungeonsweresituatedintheMilitaryQuarter,neartheedgeofthecourtyard.Whentheyarrived,Nathenledherdowntothefirstlevel,wheretheRoyalGuardwasposted.Standinginthestonehallwaythatledtothecells,speakingwiththeofficerincharge,wasthelargemanwhoservedMarcus’father.Justianwashisname,Nathenrecalled.HecockedaneyebrowatthesightofSilvan.

“YouweretoldtobringBrotherJonas.”JustiansaidsharplytoNathen.“Wastheordernotclearenoughforyou?”

Nathengrittedhisteeth,bitingbackareplythatcouldinflamethesituation.Beforehecouldsaysomething,Silvanspoke.

“Iamquitecapableofdeterminingwhatistroublingthisprisoner.”Shesaiddirectly,afrownonherface.“IfitissomethingthatIcannothandle,IwillreturnwithBrotherJonas.”

“Asyouwish,Sister.”Justiansaidwithanodofhishead.HepointedatNathen.“Youcancomeandholdthetorchforthecleric.”

Nathenlookedoverattheofficer,grumblingunderhisbreath,buttheofficermotionedforhimtogo.

Justianledthemdownthestairs,grabbingatorchandshovingitintoNathen’shand.Thetorchlightdidnotseemtopenetrateveryfarintheever-presentdarkness.Therewastheslowsteadysoundofdrippingwaterandthetemperaturegrewcolderastheydescended.

Whentheyreachedthelowestlevel,NathensawthattherewereonlyacoupleofJustian’smenstandingguardoutsideofaheavywoodendoor.Severaltorcheslitthearea.Noddingtothemen,JustianturnedtoSilvan.

“Theprisonerisbeingkeptatthefarendofthehallway,inthebiggestcell.”Hesaidasheunlockedthedoor.“Idon’tknowifwhathehasiscatching,sobecareful.”

“Whyisamanbeingkeptinsuchconditions?”Silvansnapped,gesturingatthearea.“Thisisnothealthyforthebodyorspirit.”

“I’monlyfollowingmyorders,Sister.”Justiansaid.“Youcanaddressitwiththekingifyoulike.”

“Iwilldojustthat.”Shereplied.“Comealong,Nathen.Letusseetothis

poorman.”Beyondthedoorwasalongandwidehallway.Therewereonlyafew

torcheslit,sothehallwascheckeredwithpatchesoflightanddark.Theymadetheirwaydownthehallway,Nathenfeelingmoreandmoreapprehensive.Hewaslookingaround,tryingtogetfamiliarwiththepassage.Theywerealmosttothefarendwhenthedoorclosedbehindthem,adullboomechoingdownthehall.Asthedoorclosed,itcutoffthelightfromtheoutsidetorchesandthesoundmadeNathenjump.

Suddenly,Silvanwasblazingwithpower,thelightthrowingbacktheshadows.Directlyaheadwasasetofcelldoors,standingopen.“Thereissomethingwronghere,Nathen.Beready.”Shesaid.

Nathennodded,drawinghissword.Silvancautiouslymovedforward,enteringtheroom.

Theroomwaswideandempty.Therewasasecondaryhallwayinthefarcorner.Thehallwayspacewaspitchblack,thewallshadingitfromSilvan’sglowingform.Astheyslowlyapproachedit,avoicecamefromthatblackness,freezingthemwheretheystood.

“YouarenotwhoIwasexpecting.”Thedeepvoicesaid,thesoundterrifyingNathentohiscore.Outofthedarkness,atallman-shapedfiguresteppedintothelight.

“RUN!!”Silvanscreamedathimassheunleashedablazingstreakofclerics’fireatthefigure.Nathenheardthecracklingofconflictingpowersandthesoundofthedemonlaughing.HestumbledbackasthedemonstruckatSilvan.Shescreamedahigh-pitchedscreamasthedarkfireburnedintoher.Somehow,shestayedonherfeet,fightingthoughthepain,andattackedagain.

Intheflashesoflightfromthebattle,Nathensawthesmallholeinthefloorthatactedastheprivyforthecell.Desperate,histerrorovertakinghim,hescrambledtoit.Heclawedatthestones,tryingtopullthemup.Withthemortarweakenedwithage,hewasablepryafewloose,enlargingthehole.

WithafinalcryofagonyfromSilvanasshefell,thebattlebehindhimended,theroomplungingintodarkness.

“Whereareyougoing,mylittlerabbit?”Thedemonchuckledbehindhim.Overthepoundingofhisheartbeat,Nathenhearditcomingforhim.

Completelyterrified,hedoveforward,shovinghimselfintotheprivyholeheadfirst.Grippingthestones,hepulledwithallhisstrength.Suddenly,thewholethinggaveway.Hefelttheagonyofthedemon’sfireasitstruckhislowerlegrightbeforehefell,tumblingintothedarknessinarainofstone.

CHAPTERSEVENTEEN

“Marcus.”MarcusturnedfromthefurnacewhenheheardNorlancallovertohim,

wipingthesweatfromhisface.Hewasatthesmithy,wearingthesameleatherapronsandmetalfootgearasNorlan’stwoapprentices.JonashadsuggestedthathegotoNorlan’sfortheeveningmeal,sohecouldbearoundfriendswhiletheyfiguredoutwhattodoaboutKeria.Afterthemeal,whenMarcusandNorlanweretalkingoutside,Norlanhadsuggestedthatheshouldcomebythesmithyanddosomephysicalworktoclearhismind.Whenheawokethismorning,hedecidedtotakeNorlanuponhisoffer.

Marcushadbeenhaulingloadsofwood,coalandiron,aswellasworkingthebellowsatthefurnace,constantlymoving.HeonlystoppedwhenMadalinandCherisehadbroughtthemid-daymealforhimandtheothers.Theexertionshadtheintendedeffect;hewasabletothinkaboutwhathadhappenedmorecalmlyandrationally.

Norlanwasstandingovernearhissmalloffice.MarcuswassurprisedtoseeJonasstandingthere,butevenmoresotoseeDaen,hisfacelookingevenmoreseriousthanusual.NoddingtoAlmos,whowasusingthefurnace,heleftthesmithyareaandwalkedacrossthesmallyardtowheretheywerestanding.

Jonaslookedathimcritically,noddingslightly.“I’mgladtoseeyouactive.Toomuchsittingaroundbroodingisnothealthy.”

“IamgratefulthatNorlanmadetheoffer.”Marcusreplied.“Ithinkthatithashelped.”

“Excellent.”Jonassaid.Hethenloweredhisvoice.“However,wehavesomethingmoreimportanttodiscuss.”HeturnedtoNorlan.“Mayweuseyouroffice?”

“Ofcourse,Jonas.”Norlansaidandledthemintothesmallroom.Oncetheywereinsideandthedoorwasclosedbehindthem,Jonasspoke

again.“DaencametotheTemplelookingforyou,Marcus.Hehassomethingimportanttotellus.”HegesturedtoDaen.

“Thismorning,webegantogetaseriesoforders,signedbytheking.”Daenstated.“TheordersbegantoreassigntheRoyalGuard.Somewereorderedtoaugmentthesoldersatthegates,butotherswerebeingsenttotheremoteborderforts.Atfirst,noonethoughtanythingaboutit,sincethenumbersspecifiedineachorderweresmall,butwhentheorderscontinued,itbecameapparentthat

almostalloftheRoyalGuardwasbeingsentfromthepalace.Helgrantwenttoseethekingtoprotest,butcamebackwithSirAlleon,whowasorderedtoleaveforthewesternfortsimmediately.SirAlleontooktwentyGuardsmenwithhimwhenheleft.”

“Helgrantwasassuredthatthesedeploymentsweretemporaryandinformedthatyourfather’smen-at-armswouldfillinatthepalacewhiletheRoyalGuardwasaway.”Daenshookhishead.“Helgrantwasfurious,butgavetheorders.AfterSirAlleonleft,hepulledmeasideandtoldmetogoandinformyouandBrotherJonas.Iwasorderedtostaywithyouandnotreturntothepalace,soatleastoneRoyalGuardwouldbeleftinthecity.”

DaenlookedoveratJonas,whonodded.“Also,Nathendidnotreturnfromthedungeonslastnight.Hehatestheplace,soheisusuallybackinthebarracksassoonashisshiftends,butIhavenotseenhimsinceheleftyesterdayafternoon.”

“SisterSilvanwentwithNathentoattendtoasickprisoner,orsoweweretold.”Jonasinterjected.“ShedidnotreturntotheTemple.WhenIwenttothedungeonsthisafternoon,lookingforher,IwastoldthatthelogsshowedthatshehadleftaroundhalfanhouraftershehadarrivedwithNathen.TheytoldmethatIcouldcomeinsideandlookmyself,butIdeclined.”Hepaused.“Therewassomethingaboutitthatdisturbedme.Justsoyouknow,allofthemenatthedungeonswereyourfather’smen.”

“Whatdoyoumeanbythat,Jonas?”Marcusasked,butfeltasuddenhollownessinside.“Iamangrywithhimandheisalwaysinthemiddleofthecourtpolitics,butmyfatherisnotanenemyoftherealm.”

“Iappreciateyourloyalty,Marcus.”Jonassaidgently.“Butsomethingisverywronghere.WhywouldthekingsendtheRoyalGuardaway,onlytoreplacethemwithyourfather’smen?Also,whenIwenttothepalacetodiscusswhathappentoSilvan,Iwasturnedawayatthepalacegates.Theguards,yourfather’smen,saiditwasorders.IamtheChiefClericofSanduas;whatreasonwouldtherebetokeepmeout?TheonlythingIcanthinkofistokeepmeawayfromtheking.Yousawhowhewastwonightsago.CombinethatwithwhatDaenhasjusttoldus,wecannotdenythatthereisanefforttosurroundthekingwithyourfather’smen.Whobutyourfatherwouldhavetheabilitytosoorderhismen?”

“Icannotbelievethatmyfatherwouldmoveagainsttheking.”Marcusstated,shakinghishead.“Theyhavebeenfriendsforalongtime.Therehastobeanotherexplanation.”

“Ifthereis,weneedtofindoutwhatitis.”Jonassaid.HelookedoveratNorlan.“Ifyoudonotwishtobeinvolvedanyfurther,Norlan,Iunderstand.Theremaybegreatriskininvestigatingwhathashappened.”

“Ifyouarethatconcerned,Jonas,thensoamI.”Norlansaid,squaringhisshoulders.“Itisunlikelythatifsomethingbadhappensitwouldpassmyfamilyby.I’mnotsurewhathelpIcanbe,butIamwithyou.”

“Thankyou,Norlan.”Jonassaid.Helookedateachoftheminturn.“Weneedtobecautious.DaenandIwillreturntotheTemple.Marcus,youandNorlanshouldcontinueasifnothinghashappened.Finishyourwork,andthenheadhome.Onceitstartstogetdark,cometotheTemple.Wehavemuchtodiscuss.”

…Keriapulledonherdressingrobeastheseamstressesleftherroom,taking

thefabricsampleswiththem,deepindiscussionoverthedetailsofherweddinggown.Shesteppedoffthesmallpedestalnearthemirrorandbeganpacingaroundherbedroom.

Shehatedthatherfatherwasforcinghertomarrythatodiousman.Shehadspokentoherfatheratlength,alternativelypleadinganddemanding,tryingtoreachhimandhavehimcalltheweddingoff.ShehadbeggedhimtoallowhertomarryMarcus,arguingthatitwouldstillallowthejoiningwithLordMarcelas’family,butwithsomeonethatsheloved.Herfatherrejecteditoutofhand,finallyorderinghertoherroomandforbiddinghertodiscussitanyfurther.

Tomakemattersworse,whenshehadtriedtoleavethepalacegroundsthismorning,shewasturnedback.TheRoyalGuardondutytoldherthatherfatherhadorderedherconfinedinthepalaceuntilafterthewedding.Thathadsentherintoarage.Shestormedintoherfather’schambers,demandingtoknowwhyshewasaprisoner.Hetoldherthatitwasforherowngood,topreventherfromdoingsomethingrash.Thatwastoomuchforher.Shelostanysenseofpropriety,yellingandcursingathim,threatingtocuthimoutofherlifeforever.Hehadrespondedinkind,hisfacegrowingred,bellowingather,tellinghertostayinherquartersorhewouldhaveherputinchains.

Despiteherfrustrationandanger,shewasworriedforherfather.Hedidnotseemhimself.Whenshefirstspokewithhimaftertheannouncement,hewaspaleandsweating,hishandsshakingslightlyashedrankhiswine.HehadrefusedtoallowhertosendforJonas,sayinghewasfine.Hedidnotlookanybettertoday.

Lostinherthoughts,shedidnotrealizethatherdoorhadopeneduntilshesawRolasstridingintoherroom,atankardinhishand.

“Howdareyou?!”Shehissedathim,pullingherrobetight.“Youcannotjustcomeintomychambersuninvited.LeaveorIwillhaveyoutakenawayinirons.”

“Isthatanywaytotreatyourfuturehusband?”Rolas,eyesslightlybloodshot,askedwithasmileonhislips,unconcerned.

““YouwillleavenoworIwillinformmyfatheraboutyourboorishbehavior.”Shesaid,tryingtorecoverhercalm.Hestoodtherewatchingher,andthentookaslowanddeliberatedrinkfromhistankard.

“Youwillregretdisobeyingme.”Shesaidflatly,drawingherselfup.Sheraisedhervoice.“Guards!!”

Despitehercry,Rolassimplystoodtherewiththatevilgrinonhisface.Afterafewmoments,whentheguardsdidnotshowup,helaughed.“Itappearsthatthereisnoonecomingtoyourrescue.”

Hecameovertoher,reachingouttotouchherface.Shejerkedherheadback,buthereachedoutandgrabbedherneck.Hesqueezedtightlyandpulledherclose.Shecouldsmellthealcoholonhisbreath.

“Youbelongtomenow.”Hesnarledquietly,smilegone,eyesflatwithanger.“Youhadbetterlearntoguardyourtongue.YouwillsoontakeanoathtoobeymeandIwillholdyoutothatoath.Oncewearemarried,youronlydutywillbetoproduceanheir.”Hissmilecameback,cruelandcold,thoughhumordidnottouchhiseyes“Iprefermywomenalittlerougheraroundtheedges,butwearestuckwitheachother.Youhadbettermakepeacewiththat.”

BeforeKeriacoulddoanything,awoman’svoicecamefromthedoorway.“Rolas,releaseher.”

Grimacing,heshovedKeriaback,lettinggoofherthroat.Shestumbledbackwards,butwasabletocatchherbalance.Asshelightlyrubbedwerehehadgrabbedher,shelookedovertoseeLadyAreliaandCaptainJustianstandinginthedoorway.

“Justian,escortRolasbacktoourquarters.”Shesaid,lookingcoldlyatherson.“Ifheweretohappentostumbleintothewallseveraltimesalongtheway,Iwouldhopethatwouldconvincehimtogiveupdrinking.”

Grumblingunderhisbreath,Rolasturnedandleft,withJustianrightbehindhim.LadyAreliacameintotheroomandsatdowninoneofthechairssetnearthewall.ShemotionedKeriatojoinher.Afteramoment’shesitation,Keriacameoverandsatdown.

“Ifyouwishtofindsomehappinessinmarriage,mydear,youwillneedtolearntoidentifyandmanageRolas’moods.”Areliastated.“Trynottoantagonizehim.”

“Idonotplantomarryhim.”Keriasaidsharply.“Aftermyfatherlearnsofthis,yoursonwillbeluckytokeephishead.”

“Thatisexactlythewrongthingtodo,Highness.”Areliastatedfirmly.“Thekingandmyhusbandhaveagreedonthisunion.Youwouldnotwishtoseeaschismdevelopbetweenthem,doyou?Thatcouldleadtounfortunateconsequences.”

“IwillbeQueensomeday,soIwillnottoleratesuchamantositbesideme.”Keriaretorted.Shetookacalmingbreath,softeninghervoice.“LadyArelia,ifyoutrulywanttoseeourfamiliesunited,convinceyourhusbandtoagreetoamarriagewithMarcus.HeandIareamuchbettermatch.Weloveeachother.”

“WhileIwishmysonthebest,thatwillnothappen.Rolasisthefirst-bornandMarcelas’heir.”Areliasaid,studyingKeria.“Ifyouwishtobeagoodqueen,youmustputthebestinterestsoftherealmbeforeyourowninterests.Startingaconflictwiththerichestnoblehousewouldnotbeinanyone’sbestinterest.”

“Iwouldratherdiethanmarrysuchaman.”Keriastated.“Ihaveheardmanywomensaythat.”Areliasaid,rising.Shelookeddown

atKeria,eyesnowcold.“Noblewomensuchasourselvesmustfindawaytoendurewhatfatedealsus.Noteveryonegetstohavethemanofherdreams.Youshouldthinkonthat,Princess,aswellashowtomakepeacewithRolas.Youwillbemarryinghim,whetheryoulikeitornot.”Withthat,shemadetoleave.

Atthedoor,sheturnedback.“Ishouldwarnyou.YourfatherhasreplacedtheRoyalGuardinthepalacewithmyhusband’smen.Donottryanythingfoolish,child.Therewillbenoonetohelpyouifyoudo.”

KeriastaredindisbeliefasthedoorshutbehindArelia,suddenlyshuddering.ThesoundofthedoorsclosingremindedherofthecellinCreatos’fortress.Sheknewthatshewasacaptiveagain.

…AsMarcuswalkednexttoNorlan,headingintotheTemple,passingthe

apprenticeclericsignitingthetorchesinthegardentoprovidelightagainstthedarkeningsky,thecalmingbenefitofworkingatthesmithyhadfaded.Hismindwasturning,desperatelytryingtofigureoutwhatwashappeningandwhy.

Hewasstilluncertainwhattobelieve.Hejustcouldnotfathomwhatwouldcausehisfathertoplotoractagainsttheking.Thatwouldbesooutofcharacterforhim.But,withthestrangemovementofhisfather’smenintopositionsthatrightfullybelongedtotheRoyalGuard,hecouldnolongerbecompletelysure.

Theymadetheirwaytothesanctuary,findingJonasandDaenalreadythere,sittingintwoofthefourchairsintheroom.Therewasapitcherofwineandfourglasses,sittingonasmalltablenearthechairs.Marcuswentoverandpouredthewineintotheglasses,handingonetoeachman,thensatdownintheremainingchair.

“Iamstillnotconvincedthatmyfatherisbehindwhatisgoingon.”Marcussaid.“Iagreethatsomethingoddishappening,buttheordersthatarebeingcarriedoutarefromtheking.Couldhisapparentillnessbeaffectinghisjudgment?”

“Maybe.”Jonassaid,strokinghisbeard.“Therearesomeillnessesthatimpairjudgmentorcausethepersontobeopentosuggestion.But,untilIcanexaminehim,wecannotknowforsure.Itriedtosendanotherclerictothepalacethisafternoon,thinkingthatitmightjustbemethatisbarred,butshewasturnedawayaswell.”

“WithoutwantingtocauseMarcusanyoffence,butperhapsthekingandhisfatherhavebeencompromisedinsomeway,maybesomethinghappenedthatleavesthemopentocoercionbyothers?”Norlansuggested.“Theydoseemtobeworkingtogether.”

“Nooffenceistaken,Norlan.”Marcussaid.“Idoubtit,though.Ihaveneverheardevenawhisperofmyfatherdoinganythingthatwouldbeconsidereddishonorable.”

“Canwesomehowgetthearmyinvolved?”Daenasked.“Ithinkthatifthesoldiersbegantoquestionwhatwashappening,wewouldgetsomeanswers.LordMarcelasdoesnothaveenoughmentostandagainstthem.”

“Iagreethatwouldgettheirattention,Daen,buthowwouldwemakethathappen?”Marcusresponded.“Ifitwerefoundoutthatweweretryingtoturnthearmy,thenthekingwouldsimplyorderthemtoarrestus.Ican’tseethemturningagainstthekingononlyourword.”HelookedatJonas.“Theonlywayitcouldworkisiftheclericshelpedconvincethem.”

Jonasshookhishead.“Ican’ttelltheclericstodothatononlyavaguesuspicion.ItwouldviolatetheAgreement,whichinturnwouldmeanthatthekingwasnolongerboundbyit.ThatwouldmaketheTemplevulnerable.IwillnotriskitunlessanduntilIknowmore.”

“Whatcanwedothen?”Norlanasked.“IthinkthatweneedtodeterminewhathasbefallenSilvanandNathen.”

Jonassaid.“Ifwecansolvethat,itmaygiveusbetterinsightonthetruepurposebehindallthathashappened.”

“Wherewouldwestart?”Marcusasked.“Wecannotgetintothepalaceandwewoulddrawattentionifwetriedtogointothedungeons.”

“MaybeIcangetin.”Daenstated.“IbelievethatIcangetCommanderHelgranttowriteanorderthatIneedtoretrievesomeitemsfromthebarracks.HeiscurrentlyattheSouthGate.”

“Iapplaudyourcourage,Daen,butwemustbecautious.”Jonassaid.“IfthekingandMarcus’fatherarecollaborating,asNorlansuggested,thenitispossiblethatHelgranthasbeencompromised.Ibelievethatwemustdothisourselves.”

“Insteadofthat,whynothaveDaenfindsomeoftheGuardsmenwhoworkedinthedungeonsandengagetheminconversation?”Marcussuggested.“Hewouldnotsayanythingspecific,butthatmaybeausefulwaytogatherinformationwithoutrevealingourtrueintent.”

“Icanagreetothat.”Jonassaid.HelookedatDaen.“Doyouthinkyoucanbecircumspectinyourquestionsastonotdrawattention?”

“Ican,BrotherJonas.”Daensaidconfidently.“IcancheckwiththeremainingGuardsmenstillinthecity.IfIcannotfindsomeonethere,Icanalwaysrideouttothenearbyarmygarrisons.”

“Ifweareagreed,thenIsuggestwestartthere.”Jonassaid.Theothersnodded.“Weshouldmeetagainintwodays.Hopefully,Daenwillhavesomeinformationtohelpusplanwhattodonext.”

MarcusgotupandwalkedoutwithDaen,whileNorlanstayedtospeakwithJonas.TheywentaroundtotherearoftheTemplegroundswherethebushesandtreeswerethick,soDaenwouldbelesslikelytobeseenleaving.

“Don’ttakeanyrisks,Daen.”Marcussaidquietly.“Ifyouthinkthatsomeoneisgrowingsuspicious,leaveimmediatelyandreturnhere.”

“Idohavesomecommonsense,Marcus.”Daensnorted,asuddengrinonhisface.“Younoblessometimesseemtothinkonlyyouhaveabrain.”

Marcussmiledatthat.“IthinkNathenhasbeenabadinfluenceonyou.”Hissmilefadedasheheldouthishand.“Luckbewithyou.”

“Youtoo,Marcus.”Daensaid,grippingMarcus’hand.“I’llseeyouintwodays.”Withafinalnod,heslippedintothebrushanddisappeared.

MarcusslowlymadehiswaybacktowardstheTemple.Hestoppedneara

lowwall,leaningagainstitandlookingupatthesky.Highcloudsobscuredmostofthestars,makingthenightseemdarker.

HestartedthinkingaboutKeria.Hisbodytensedandhefelthisangerre-awakenasheconsideredthefactthatshewassupposedtomarryRolasinonlyeightdays.WhilehehadnottoldJonasorNorlan,hehaddecidedthatiftheydidnotfindanyanswersbeforethen,hewouldfindawayintothepalaceandconfronthisbrother.Ifhemust,hewouldfighthimforKeria.

Hewasbattlinghisbrotherinhismind’seyewhenasuddenrankodorassaultedhisnostrilsandheheardarustlingcomingfrombehind.Hespun,drawinghissword,andconfrontedashapestaggeringawayfromthebushes.

“Holdandidentifyyourself.”Marcusordered.“Marcus,isthatyou?”Afamiliarvoicesaid.“ThankstotheOne.”The

figuretookanotherstepandcollapsed.“Nathen!”Marcuscriedasranovertohim,kneelingdownandcradlinghis

head,ignoringthestrongoffensiveodoremanatingfromNathen’stornanddirtyclothes.Checkinghimforinjuries,hesawthatNathen’slegswerebare,hisbootsandpantslegsgone,thefleshblisteredandoozing.Hewasshockedthathehadbeenabletowalkonthematall.

“Whathappened,Nathen?”MarcussaidashemovedtopickhimupandtakehimtoJonas.

Nathen,eyeswide,reachedoutandgraspedMarcus’chainmail,curlinghisfistsintothemetal.“Demon!”

…InthedungeonsofDanelias,Martissatinthedarkcell,staringatnothing.

Hecouldsometimeshearthefaroffsoundoftheocean,echoingdownanairvent,butnotnow.Ranechwasasleepnearhim,snoringloudly.Hestretchedouthisfootandgavehimasharpkickintheside.Ranechdidnotwakeup,butrolledoverontohissideandthesnoringstopped.Atleastforalittlewhile.Martisthoughtbitterly.

Hehadoftenfallenintodespairsincehehadbeenbroughthere.TheAletonianswhoworkedinthedungeonsdidnothidetheirdisgustforhim.Theydeniedhimlight,exceptwhentheyfedhim,whichwasalwaysawateryanddisgustinggruelandapieceofstalebread.Theydeliberatelyspilledhischamberpotwithoutcleaningitup,leavinghimtoendurethestrongodorofwaste.HewasforcedtosharethesmallcellwithRanech,eventhoughtherewereemptycellsallaround.

Heshudderedwhenherecalledtheknivesandothersharpinstrumentsthat

theguardswouldbringin,sharpingthemwhilelookingathimwithsmilesthatchilledhimtohiscore.Heknewthatitwasonlyamatteroftimebeforetheystartedusingthoseitemsonhim.IwilltellthemeverythingIknow.Hetoldhimself.Bettertogostraighttotheheadsmanthanendurethatfornogoodreason.

Downthehall,heheardthemetaldoorthatledtothecellsopen.Heblinkedagainstthesuddenlightfromthetorchheldbythemanwhocamedownthehall.HiscountenancewasconcealedbythetorchlightinMartis’eyesandadeephood.

“AreyouthemancalledMartis?”Themanaskedquietly.Martisdidnotrecognizethevoice.

“Iam.”Hereplied.“Whoareyou?”“Thatisnotimportant.”Themansaid.“Ionlyhaveasinglequestionfor

you.Ifyouwerefreed,whatwouldyoudoforthepersonwhofreedyou?”Martisfeltasuddentingleofhope,conflictingwiththefearthathewas

beingledintoatrap.Hedebatedhowbesttorespond,butdecidedthathehadnothingtolose.

“Iwoulddowhateverthatpersonaskedmetodo.”Hestatedcautiously,waitingfearfullyforthejawsofthetraptosnapshut.

“Correctanswer,merchant.”Themansaid,hissmilevisibleinhisvoice.“Youandyourmanwillbegivenhorsesandweapons.Youwillreceivehalfthegoldthatwashiddeninyourwagon.TheDemonhuntertoldtheQueen’sGuardaboutitbeforeheleftanditwasconfiscated.”

“Thenwhat?”Martisasked,surprisedbytheoffer.“Then,youwillperformthemissiongiventoyou.”Themanstated.His

voicetookonatoneofmenace.“Knowthis,merchant.Ifyoufailinthismission,youwillbebeggingforthemercyofaswiftdeathbeforeIamdonewithyou.”

“Iwillnotfail.”Martissaidquickly.Themannodded.“Someonewillcomeforyoushortly.Youwillbegiven

yourtaskatthattime.”Themanturnedandleft,plungingthecellbackintodarkness.

Martiscouldnothelpbutsmile.Hewoulddohisbesttocompletewhatevermissionwasgivenhim.Thenagain,optionswerealwaysavailabletosomeonewhowasfree,withapurseofgoldandahorse.

CHAPTEREIGHTEEN

Inthelateafternoonofthenextday,withthesunsinkingonthehorizon,Jakecrestedthelastlowhill.Hesawthelakespreadoutinfrontofhim,thesunlightsparklingasitdancedoffthewater.HehaltedDontas,pausingtotakeintheview.Hailynrodeupbesidehim,stoppingaswell.

Theywerestillatleastanhourfromthelakeshore,thelandflatteningoutasitranfromthehillstothewater.Hecouldjustmakeoutsomebrownspotsalongtheshore,theirshapesuchthattheyhadtobeman-made.Homesorotherbuildingslikely.Hethought,concentrating.Maybesomeboatsinthewater.

Thelakeitselfwaslarge,fourorfivemileswideandatleastthatlong.Dominatingthescenewasthelargeislandthatrosefromthemiddleofthelake.Whiletheislandlookedfairlylevel,asingle,largerockycliffjuttedupintotheskynearitscenter.Itappearedtobeseveralhundredfeettall.ItsshaperemindedJakeofasmallerversionofDevilsTowerinWyoming.Itslightgraycolorcontrastedwiththegreenfoliageofthetreesatitsbase.Ashelookedclosely,hesawashimmeringthatrandowntheclifffacethatcouldonlybeawaterfall.

“Weshouldheadtothebuildingsandseeifwecanfindsomeonewithaboatwhowillbewillingtotakeustotheisland.”Hailynsaid.

“JustwhatIwasthinking.”Jakesaidwithasmile,whichHailynreturned.Theyhadspentmuchofthetimeontheroadtalkingtoeachotherabouttheirhopesanddreams,sharingsecrets,soJakefeltmuchclosertoHailynthanbeforetheyleftSanduas.

ThetripfromKersanthadbeenfairlyuneventful.Exceptforarainstormthattheyranintoonthethirddayout,theweatherhadheldfairlysteady,coolandpleasant.Theyhadventuredintoavillageoncetogathersomesupplies,butmostlystayedawayfromotherpeople.Theymadegoodtime,ridingthroughoutthedayandstoppingonlyatnight.

HebootedDontasintomotion,headingdownthehill.Hegotthehorsetoasteadygallop,Hailynridingathisside.Withthelandcoveredinshortcloversandthetreesthatwerepresentscatteredaroundinsmallstands,theywereabletoheadstraightforthebuildingswithoutanydeviation.

Astheygotcloser,Jakesawthatthebuildingswereactuallyasmallhomeandabarn,builtnearthelakeshore.Therewasawoodensplit-railfencethat

surroundedtheproperty,withasmallgatenearthehome.Behindthebarnwasasmallpierthatextendedintothelake.Tiedupattheendofthepierwasawoodenboatwithasinglemastrisingfromthecenterofthecraft.Theboatwaswiderinthemiddlewithanarrowbowandstern.Nearthebarnwereseveralwoodenracks,lookinglikeA-frameswithasinglewoodenpolerunningacrossthetop.Therewassomethinghangingfromthem,buttheywerestilltoofarawaytomakeoutwhatitwas.

Whentheywerenearthehome,theyslowedthehorsestoawalk,approachingslowly.Jakecouldnowseeitwasfishhangingfromtheracks,coveredinsalt.Whenhelookedbacktowardsthehouse,hesawthedooropenandamanstepout.

Themanwasslim,dressedinbrownleatherclothing.Heappearedtobeinhisthirties,witharecedinghairlinepushingbackhislightbrownhair.Hisfacewasruddy,evidencethathespenthistimeoutdoors.

Jakenoticedthatfacewasunwelcoming,thesentimentmadeclearbythelongspearinhishand.JakemotionedHailyntostopandtheyhaltedthehorsesnearthegate.

“Whatdoyouwant?”Themandemanded.“Wearelookingforsomeonewhocantakeustotheisland.”Hailynsaid

gently.“Wemeanyounoharm.”“Doyouhaveadeathwish,strangers?”Themanaskedwithasharplittle

barkofalaugh.“Noonegoestotheisland.”“IamaclericoftheOne,goodsir.”Hailynresponded.“Ihavetogotothe

island.Areyousurethatthereisnoonewillingtosailustoit?”“Acleric,huh?”Themangrunted.“YouarenotdressedliketheclericsI

haveseen.”“WearefromSanduas.”Hailynsaid.“Wearetravelingwiththepermission

ofthequeen.”“Maybeshewillcomeandtakeyoutotheisland.”Themansaid

sarcastically.Hestudiedthemsomemore,frowningatJake’sweapons,obviouslythinkingthingsover.

LookingbackatHailyn,heasked.“DoyouswearbytheOnethatyouandyourcompanionmeannoharm,cleric?”WhenHailynnodded,herelaxedsome,groundinghisspear.“Ifyouareseriousaboutgoingtotheisland,Icanatleastfeedyousomethingotherthantravelrationsforalastmeal.IdowanttostayontheOne’sgoodside.”

“Thatwouldbeverykindofyou,goodsir.”Hailynsaidwithasmile.“My

nameisHailynandthisisJake.”“MynameisTurlic.”Themanreplied.“Iamafishermanandtrader.Be

welcometomyhome.”JakeandHailynslidoftheirhorsesandtiedthemoffonthefence.They

enteredthroughthegateandwereescortedintothehouse.Itwasasimplehome,withalargelivingarea,asmallkitchenandtworoomsbuiltagainstthefarwall.Therewasarough-hewnwoodentablenearthekitchen.Inthekitchenitselfstoodaplumpwoman,plainlydressedinasimplecottonskirtandblouse,withherhairpulledbackintoalongponytail.ShelookedquestioninglyoveratTurlic.

“ThisisSisterHailynfromSanduasandhercompanion,Jake.”Turlicsaid.“Theyhaveafoolnotionofgoingtotheisland,soIwantedtomakesuretheyhaveonelastgoodmeal.”Hegesturedatthewoman.“Thisismywife,Ralien.”

“Bewelcome,Sister.”Raliensaidgraciously.Shegesturedatthetable.“Pleasebeseated.”

Oncetheyhadsatdown,Ralienbroughtoversomecups,thereturnedwithtwopitchers,onewineandtheotherwater.TurlicpouredhimselfsomewinewhileJakeandHailynchoosethewater.

“Sister,whydoyouwanttogotheisland?”Turlicasked.“Wearelookingforsomethingimportant.”Hailynreplied.“Itmayassist

theclericsandwebelieveitisontheisland.”“Youarestrangershere,soIfeelitismyobligationtowarnyou.”Turlic

said,frowning.“IwasnotexaggeratingwhenIsaidnoonegoestotheisland.Oh,theoccasionalfoolishyoungmanandhisidiotfriendswillmaketheattempt,theirmindsfilledwiththelegendsofapricelesstreasurethatissupposedtobeontheisland.”

Turlicshookhishead.“Justlastyear,therewerefourladsthatsailedtotheisland.Threewentashorewhiletheforthstayedwiththeboat.Theoneontheboatsaidheheardscreamsshortlyaftertheylanded.Heclaimedthathesawoneoftheothersrunoutofthetrees,bloodiedandbeggingforhelp,thensomemonstercameoutofthetrees,grabbedthewoundedoneanddraggedhimback.Theoneontheboatreturnedimmediately,hisfacepaleandterrified.Aftertellinghistale,hewaslastseenridingahorseasfastasitwouldcarryhimawayfromthelake,headingintothehills.”

“Iamnotsurewhatwastrueandwhatwasnot,butthereisrealdangerontheisland.”Hefinished.“Yourfriendmaybegoodwithhissword,butthere

couldbethingstherethatswordsoraclericcannotdefendagainst.Pleasereconsideryourintentions,Sister.”

“Iappreciateyourconcernforoursafety,Turlic.”Hailynsaid.“Butwehavetogototheisland,regardlessofthedanger.”

Turlicfrownedatthat,clearlythinkingabouthowhecoulddissuadeher.Inthesilence,themaindooropened,drawingJake’sattention,andayounggirlentered.Shewaswearingasimplebluedresswithbrownleathershoes.Jakenoticedthatshewaswearingashawlwrappedaroundherhead,shadingherface.Mostnotably,herleftarmwasbentatanangle,asifshewererunning,seeminglylockedinplace.

ShefrozewhenshesawJakeandHailynsittingthere.TurlicsawJake’slookandturned.

“Thisisourdaughter,Milyn.”Hetoldthem,painevidentonhisface.“Whathappenedtoherarm?”Hailynaskedgently.“Therewasaplaguethatsweptthroughheretwoyearsago.”Turlicreplied

afteramoment.“Itonlyseemedtoaffectthechildren.Mostdiedfromit,butMilynsurvived.Itleftherarmuseless.”

“Icanlookatit,ifyouwish.”Hailynsaidquietly.“PerhapsIcandosomethingtorelievethesymptoms.”

“Youwouldbewastingyourtime,Sister.”Turlicreplied.“Aclericcamethroughseveralmonthsaftershehadrecovered.Hetriedtohealher,buttoldusthatthedamagewasdoneandcouldnotbereversed.”

“Iwouldstillliketotry.”Hailynsaid.Turliclookedoverathiswife.Afterfewmoments,shenodded.Hesighed,

turningtohisdaughterandgesturingtoher.“Comehere,mylove.”Hesaidgently.

Thelittlegirlcameover,slowlyandhesitantly,andstoppednearherfather.Hailynmotionedhertocomecloser.“Iwillnothurtyou,child.”Shesaidsoftly,awelcomingsmileonherface.

Atthegentleproddingofherfather,MilynwalkedovertoHailyn.SheflinchedwhenHailynreachedouttopushhershawlback.Whentheshawlfellfromherhead,Jakesawwhyshewaswearingit.

Therightsideofherfacewassmoothandclear,whatachild’sfaceshouldlooklike.However,theleftsidewasaruin.Deepredscarscreasedherfacefromherhairlinetowhereherdresscoveredhershoulders.Thescarshadpulledbacktheleftsideofhermouth,leavingitinapermanentgrin,withherteethexposedandsomedroolleaking.Herlefteyewascoveredinawhitefilm,

blindingher.“Thisiswhattheplaguedidtomybeautifuldaughter.”Turlicsaidbrokenly,

hiseyesfullofunshedtears.Hailyndidnotreact,lookingkindlyatthegirl,thesmilestillonherface.

Shegentlytookthechild’sheadintoherhands,andthenclosedhereyes.Warmyellowlightfilledtheroomasshestartedtoworkherpowertoheal.Jakesawherbrowsfurrowinconcentration.Theysatthere,watching,butnothingseemedtobehappening.

JustwhenJakewassurethatHailynwouldgiveup,aflashofwhitelightdrewhisattentiontowardsherhands.Hewasstartledtoseetherunesonthebraceletglowingsoftly,thewhitelightpulsing.Ashewatched,smallburstsofthelightflowedfromthebraceletintothegirl.

TurlicandRaliengaspedasthewhitelightbegantocoverthedamagedareasoftheirdaughter.Jakewatched,transfixed,asthescarsonthegirl’sfaceseemedtomeltaway,restoringherskin,herleftarmunbending.Hermouthrelaxedandthewhitefilmfadedfromtheeye.Withafinalflare,thelightoftherunesfadedaway.

WhenHailynpulledherhandsawayandopenedhereyes,Milynwasstandingtherewhole,herbodymended.Sheburstintotearsofhappinessasherfatherandmothercameoverandembracedher,showeringherwithkisses.

Jaketurnedfromthescenetogivethematleastsomeprivacy.HeleanedovertoHailyn.“Whatdidyoudo?”

“Idon’tthinkIdidanything,Jake.”Shewhispered.“Iwastryingtofixthedamage,usingmypower,butnothingwashappening.Suddenly,Ifeltheatonmywristandfeltthatwarmthflowintothegirl.Ididn’ttrytouseit;Ijustletitcontinuetoflow.”

“Sister.”TheyturnedtofaceTurlicwhenhespoke,hisvoicechokedwithemotion.Thereweretearsstreamingdownhisface.“Icannotbegintothankyouforwhatyoujustdid.WhileIfearforyoursafety,ifyouinsistongoing,Iwilltakeyoutotheislandinthemorning.Pleasestayheretonightasourguests.”

…AstheymadetheirwaytoTurlic’sboat,thesunroseonthefarhorizon,

decoratingthedistantskyinakaleidoscopeoforangeandreds.Itwasvisibleonlybriefly,itslightshiningacrossthelandfromthesliverofopenskythatexistedbetweenthelandandthegraycloudsthatwerecoveringthearea.Itslidbehindtheclouds,mutingitslightandwashingoutthecolorsofthewaterand

land.JakeandHailynfollowedTurlic’sinstructionsandtooktheirplacesnearthe

sternoftheboatwhileTurlicmadereadytosail.Beforeheundidthemooringropes,heattachedasmalldingytotherearoftheboat.Withtheslight,butsteadybreezeblowingacrossthelake,Turlicraisedhissail,thecanvascatchingthewind.Heuncoiledtheropesholdingtheboattothedock,thentookhisplaceattherudderastheboatstartedtomove.

Theysailedoutintodeeperwater.Turlicturnedtheboat,adjustinghissailtokeepthewind,andheadedtowardstheisland.Theypickedupspeed,thewatermakingagentlelappingsoundagainstthewoodasthebowcutthroughthesmallwind-drivenwaves.

“Wehavedecidedtoexplorethecliffareafirst,Turlic.”Jaketoldhim.“Canyougetusascloseaspossible?”

Whilekeepinganeyeonhissail,henodded.“Iwilltakeyoutowheretheriverontheislandflowsintothelake.Thereisawiderbeachthere,abetterplacetoland.Theriverappearstooriginatefromthecliff,butitisimpossibletonavigate,soyouwillhavetowalk.”Hepaused.“Ihopethatfollowingtheriverinlandwillgiveyousomeprotectionfrombeingsurroundedbywhateverisontheisland,withthefast-flowingwateractingasabarrierononesideatleast.”

Helookedatthem,hisfaceresolute,butunhappy.“Iwillnotsetfootontheisland.ThatiswhyIbroughtthesmallboat;youwillhavetorowtoshore.Iwillwaitforyoujustoffshore.”Helookedaway.“Ihopeyoucanforgivemycowardice,especiallyafterwhatyoudid.”

“Thereisnothingtoforgive,friendTurlic,norareyouacoward.”Hailynsaidsoothingly.“Youcannotaidusthere,sothereisnoneedforyoutocomealong.Knowingthatyouwillbewaitingforusisagreatrelief.”

“Youarekind,Sister.”Hereplied,adjustingtherudder,hiseyesfocusedontheislandgrowingcloser.“Iwillwaitforyouforthreedays.Theboatwillbereadytosail,nightorday.Afterthreedays,Iwillhavetoreturntoshore.”

“Weunderstand.”Hailynsaid,lookingatJake.“Fromwhatyouhavetoldus,ifwearenotbackinthreedays,thenitislikelythatwearenotcomingback.”

Thatthoughthungoverthemastheyapproachedtheisland,thecentralclifftoweringoverthemandthesoftroarofthewaterfalldriftingacrossthelake.Jakecouldseethattheshorewasamixofrocksandsand,withthetreelinesetbackanywherefromafewfeettoseveralyards.Hecouldonlyseethetreesmovinginthewind;therewasnoevidenceofanythinglivingontheisland.

Turlicturnedtheboatagain,readjustingthesailandparallelingtheshore.Theyfollowedthegentlecurveoftheisland.Afterafewminutes,Jakecouldhearthesoundofflowingwater.Theyroundedarockypointandasandybeachopenedupinfrontofthem.Inthecenterofthebeach,aswiftmovingrivercutthroughittothelake.Jakesawwhytheycouldnotsailuptheriver.Therewerescatteredrocksstrewnthroughit,thewaterroilingoverthem,churningwhite.

Whentheywerestillatleastacoupleofhundredfeetfromshore,Turlicloweredhissailandwenttothebow,droppingametalanchor.Oncetheanchorsettledonthebottom,hetiedoffitsropetothebow.Theboatdriftedashortway,thentheropepulledtaunt,holdingitinplace.Hereturnedtothesternandpulledthesmallboatclose.

“Becareful,SisterHailynandfriendJake.”Hesaidashehelpedthemclimbintotheotherboat.“Idonotwishtoreturnalone.”

“ItwillbeastheOnewills.”Hailynrespondedkindly.“Havefaith.”“Iwilltry,Sister.”Herepliedwithaforcedgrin.“Wemaybecomingbacksoonerthanyouthink,Turlic.”Jakesaidasheset

theoarsintheirholders.“Idoubtthiswilltakeusmorethantoday.”“ThatIwillprayfor,Jake.”Hesaidashepushedtheirboatgentlyaway.

“Thesoonerwecanbeawayfromthisplace,thehappierIwillbe.”Jakenodded,andthenbegantorow.Heonlyhadtorowforafewminutes,

navigatingasclosetotheriverashecouldget,andthentheywereonthebeach.Oncetheboatslidtothestop,JakejumpedoutandhelpedHailynofftheboat.Hepulleditfurtheronthebeach,makingsureitwassecurelygrounded.

Withthenoisefromtherivermaskinganyothersound,theycarefullylookedaround,seekingsignsofmovement.Afterafewmoments,Jakepointedtowardstheriver,thenuptowardsthecliff.HailynnoddedandturnedtosignaltoTurlicthattheyweremoving.Jakedrewhisswordandstartedtowardstheriver,Hailynrightbehindhim.

Theyreachedtheriverandlookedinland.Theriverbankswereajumbleofstone,leadingtowardsthecliff,thelandrisingslightly.Takingadeepbreath,Jakeembracedhismagicwhilescanningthesurroundingterrain,hisswordheldattheready.Hailynstayedrightbehindhim,herpowershiningbrightly.

Theymadetheirwayslowly,takingcaretowatchwheretheywerestepping,tryingtomaintainfootingonthesometimesslipperyrocks.Theyreachedthetopoftheshortinclineandsawthattheriverranstraighttothecliff.Jakecouldseetheclifffaceaheadthroughthegapinthetreesthattherivermade,thewaterfallcoveringmostofwhatwasvisible.

Theriverbankwaslessrockyhere,makingtheirpassageeasier.Theymovedquicklyandsoonfoundthemselvesclearingthetreesandfacingthecliff.

Nowthattheywereclose,Jakesawthatthecliffwasmorerounded,theedgesforwardandthecenterback,almostformingahorseshoeshape.Thewaterfallfellfromthetopofthecliffintoalargeoval-shapedpond,whichinturnfedtheriver.Hesawseveralopeningsalongthecliffface,mostnaturallooking,butsomelookedasifsomeonehadmadethem.Orsomething.Hethoughtgrimly.

“Whatnow?”HewhisperedtoHailynwhilecontinuingtoscantheareafordanger.

“Let’sfollowtheedgeofthepondtothewaterfall.”Shesuggested.“Theremaybeanopeningwecannotsee.”

Nodding,Jakestartedforwardagain.Hewasstartingtosweatfromthetension,despitethecooltemperatures,hiseyesconstantlyroamingforanythingoutoftheordinary.Despitehisworries,theymadeitaroundthepondwithoutincident.

JakewastryingtoseeiftherewassomethingnearthefallswhenHailynpointed.Jakefollowedherhandandsawasmallopeningatthebaseofthecliff,thedarkshapepartlyobscuredbythefallingwater.Jakenoddedandbegantoslowlyworkhiswaytowardsit.

Theroarofthefallswasdeafening,thespraycomingoffitsoakingtheirclothes.Thefootingwasslippery,makingthepassagemorechallenging.Therewasasmallgapintherocks,filedwithwater,rightbeforetheopening.Jakesheathedhissword,tookacoupleofquickstepsandjumpedthegap.Hisbootsslippedonlandingandheslidintothecliffface,grabbingtherockstokeephisbalance.Oncehewassecure,heturnedandmotionedtoHailyn.Shemadeherleap,Jakecatchinghertokeepherfromfalling.Tradingatightsmilewithher,Jaketurnedandheadedintotheopening.

Onceinside,theirpowerslightingthearea,Jakedrewhisswordagain.Hesawthattheopeningledtoaroughtunnelthatrandeeperintothecliff.Hewipedthemoisturefromhisfaceandmovedforward.

Thetunnelroseandfell,aswellasmadeseveralturnsbeforeitopenedintoalargechamber.Thecrashingofthefallingwaterechoedinthechamber,fillingitwithsound.Thechamberwasaboutahundredfeetwide,withatallceilingthatformedaroughdomeabovethem.Jakecouldmakeoutseveralopeningsaroundtheedgesofthechamber.However,onethingpulledhisattentiontowardsit.

Againstthefarwallofthechamberwasacoarsetableofstone.Itlookedaboutsixfeetlong,standingonasinglepedestalthatwasbuiltonasmallrise.Itwasnottheshapeorconditionofthetablethatdrewhimtoit;itwasthefactthatitwasglowingsoftlyinapalewhitelight.HeexchangedasurprisedlookwithHailyn,andthenstartedtowardsit.

Whentheygotveryclosetoit,Jakefelthismagicsuddenlysurge,hisauraflaringbrilliantly.Hedidnotdoanything;itsimplyincreasedinintensity.Whilehewasprocessingthesensation,Hailynsuddenlygaspedbehindhim.Jakespunquicklyandsawherpowershiningbrightlyaswell.However,shewasstaringatherwrist.Jakesawthattherunesonherbraceletglowinginthesamepalelightasthetable.

“Jake,Icanfeelitpullingatme.”Shesaid,eyeswide.Shemovedclosertothetable.Whensheputherhandonit,therunesflared,aquickflashofsilverylight.Theyfadedbacktoasoftpulsingglowwhensheremovedherhandfromthetable.

“Theswordwashere;Iknowit.”Shesaid,eyesglowingwithjoy.“Ifeellikethebraceletiscallingtome.Ithinkitcanleadustothesword.”

“Isitcloseby?”Jakeasked.Hailynconcentratedforamoment,andthenshookherhead.“Igotasense

ofagreatdistance,towardsthenorth.Itisnotclose.”“Thenlet’sgetoutofhere.”Hesaid,steppingawayfromthetable,

motioningbackthewaytheycame.“ThatIcannotallow.”Asinistervoicecalledoutbehindthem.Theyspunaroundandsawafiguremoveintothechamberfromoneofthe

otheropenings.Asitcameintothelight,Jakefeltfearriseupunbidden.Thefigurewasman-shaped,standingaroundsixfeettall,andpowerfullybuilt,itsmusclesrippingasitmoved.

Jakeknewitwasademon,buthehadnotseenonelikethisbefore.Thisoneseemedlikeademonhewouldhavepicturedbackhome.Ithadahumanface,withflowingdarkhair,butthesamejet-blackeyesastheotherdemons.Ithadsharpclawsattheendofitsfingersandadeepreddishcolortoitsskin.Surmountingitsheadweretwoslightlycurlingblackhorns.

“Ihavenotseenaclericinmanyyears.”Thedemonsaid,itsdarkpowersuddenlysurroundingitsbody.ItpointedatJake.“Ihaveneverseenonelikeyou,though.”

“Andyouwon’tagain.”Jakesaidashesteppedforwardandattacked,launchingablastofpoweratthedemon.

Thedemonstaggeredbackfromtheblowandcounter-attacked.Jakedeflectedtheattack,feelingthedemon’sstrength.Hewasalittlesurprisedbyit;itwasthestrongesthehadfacedsinceCreatos.ButbetweenHailynandme,itdoesn’tstandachance.Hethoughtconfidently.

Asifreadinghismind,Hailynmovedofftohisside,givingheraclearshotatthedemon.Beforeshecouldattack,thedemonmovedsideways,tilteditsheadbackandletoutastrange,high-pitchedcall.Itechoedthroughoutthechamber,reverberatingdownthepassageways.

AsHailynstruck,ablazingbeamofclerics’firelashingatthedemon,Jakeattackedaswell.Thetwinblastsofpowerslammedintothedemon,knockingitdown,itsformsizzlingandburning,acryofpainescapingfromitslips.Butbeforetheycouldfinishitoff,moredemonsbegantoflowintothechamberfromtheotheropenings.

TheyweremostlyImps,buttherewereseveralofthefemaledemonsliketheonesatKersant.Behindthemcameatwinofthedemontheywerejustfighting.Demonfirecamestreakinginatthemfromallsides,forcingthemtodefend.Beforetheycouldtryandrun,thedemonscutofftheirescaperoute.

Thefuryofthedemons’powerforcedthemtogiveground,Jakefeelingthedarkenergybreakingthroughhisdefenses,burninghim.Heclenchedhisteethagainstthepain,buthecouldnotkeepthedemons’firecompletelyaway.Hailyn,standingnexttohim,wasalsobeingpressed,herpowershining,butshewasnotfaringmuchbetter.Thechamberseemedtoshakefromtheclashingexplosionsoftheconflictingpowers.

Drivenbackstep-by-step,Jakebegantodespair.Hedidnotthinkofhowtheycouldgetoutofthis.Theoverwhelmingnatureofthedemons’attackpreventedhimfromcountering,forcinghimtofocusondefensealone.Eventhatwasnotsufficientenough.

Retreating,theywereforcedbacktowardsthetable.Whentheywerealmostontopofit,theyenteredthatinvisiblebubbleofpowertheyfeltbefore.JakefelthispowersurgeandHailyn’saurabecamealmostblinding.Therunesonthebraceletflaredtolifeagain,outshiningbothoftheirpowers.

Usingthissurge,Jakesentablastofpower,acobaltwallofmight,intothemassofdemons.Hismagicknockedtheweakeronesdown,whiletheothersstaggeredback.Hailyndirectedalargeboltofswirlingyellowandwhitefireintothedemons,severalImpsexplodingtoashwhenitcrashedintothem.Jakefollowedwithanotherattack,destroyingoneofthefemaledemons,itsfinalcryofagonyfillingthechamber.Thedemonscontinuedtoattack,scatteringaround

thechambertomakethemlessofatarget.“YouattackandI’lldefend!”JakeshoutedovertoHailyn.Shenodded,her

faceamaskofconcentration.FilledwiththepoweroftheLight,theyfoughton.Jakedeflectedthe

demons’firewhileHailyndestroyedthedemonsonebyone.Jakedidnotknowhowlongthebattleraged,buthecouldfeelexhaustioncreepinguponhimwhenthelastImpwasdestroyed.HesawthatHailynwasswayingaswell.Bythen,theywereleftfacingthetwomaledemonsandaremainingfemaledemon.

Reachingover,JakepulledHailynclose.Leaningoneachother,theycontinuedtofight.Theyrapidlydestroyedtheremainingdemons,strikingdownthelastonewhenitturnedandtriedtoflee.

Inthesuddensilencethatfollowed,Jakefelltohisknees,hispowerwinkingoutandhisskinrawfromtheburnshereceived.Withhisearsstillringingfromtheexplosionsofpower,Hailynkneltdownnexttohim,herhandonhisneck.Jakefeltherpowerflowintohim,healinghiswounds.Whenshefinished,shegavehimawanesmile,andthencollapsed.

Hisbodytremblingfromexhaustion,heforcedhimselftocradleherbodyandpickherup.Hewantedtobeofftheislandincasetherewerestilldemonspresent.Hestaggeredtowardsthetunnelthattheycamein,Hailynheldprotectivelyagainsthisbody.

…Turlicwaitedonhisboat,worrygnawingathim,staringtowardsthesmall

boatontheshore.Theyhadbeengoneforseveralhoursandhisimaginationwasfillinghismindwithaseriesofequallyhorriblefatesthatcouldbefallthosetwo.

Iamnotamantofacesuchthings.Hethoughtbitterly.Asuddenflashofmovementontheislandcaughthisattention.Hetensed,

waitingforsometerrortoappear.Tohisrelief,hesawJakecomestumblingoutofthetreeline,carryingHailyn.HesawJaketripandfalltothesand,spinninghisbodytoavoidlandingonHailyn.Hetriedtopushhimselfup,butfellback,unabletorise.

Movingquickly,Turliccuttheropeattachedtotheanchorandraisedhissail.Hedirectedhisboattowardstheshore.ThisissomethingthatIcando.Hetoldhimself.

CHAPTERNINETEENTheportofFarSouthernwasbusyintheearlymorninglightasDominic

rodeShadowdownthemainstreettowardsthelocalgarrison.Thewarmoceanbreezeathisback,blowingoffthewavesandheadinginland,broughtwithittheharborsmellsofsalt,fishandgarbage.Alongwiththecriesofthegullswheelingoverhead,thetradersandmerchantswerealreadyatwork,theirconversationsandnegotiationslendingaconstantbuzzofnoiseechoingoffthewallsofthebuildings.Moshannarodebesidehim,withthefourclericsandtensoldiers,theirlongspearsangledupandthespearpointscatchingthesun,formedupbehindthem.

Fourdaysearlier,theyhadbeentakentotheharborinthecapital.Awaitingthemwasasleektradingship,withtwinmastsandarakishbow,calledtheWavemistress.Itscaptain,asupremelyconfidantmannamedBrelis,struckDominicasamanwhowasnotaboveskirtingthelawifitwasprofitabletohim.Brelishadaroguishairabouthim,impeccablydressedinfineclothes,incongruentwithaworkingship’scaptain.However,CommanderFarrious,whohadaccompaniedthemtothedock,toldhimthatthequeenmadeapersonalrequesttoBrelistocarrythemsouth.

Assoonastheyhadloadedthehorsesintheholdsbelowdeck,theshiphadunmooredandslippedfromtheharbor.Onceontheopensea,theshipcaughtthewind,risingandfallingasitsbowcutthroughthewaves,pickingupspeed.Dominichadjoinedthecaptainonthebridgeaftertheylefttheharbor,standingatthestern,watchingtheshoreslowlyshrinkonthehorizonbehindthem.

“Haveyoueverbeentosea,mylord?”Brelisasked,asmileplayingonhisdarkfaceashewatchedTaricruntothesiderail,heaving.Severalofthesoldierswerealreadyattherail.“Youseemtohavemorefortitudethansomeofyourcompanions.”

“Ihaveseenthingsthatwouldupsetthestomachmorethansomewaves,CaptainBrelis.”Dominicreplied,turningtowardshim.“Itissimplyamatteroftraininganddiscipline.”

“PleasecallmeBrelis,myLordDemonhunter.”Themansaidwithalaugh.“Wouldyoucaretomakeawageronwhetherdisciplinewillhelpyouifwerunintooneofthestormsthatcanriseinthesouthatthistimeoftheyear?”

“Forgiveme,Brelis,butyouhavethelookofamanwhowouldgolooking

forastormjusttowinthatbet.”Dominicsaid.“IthinkIwillkeepmycoin.”Brelislaughedloudly.“ImustsaythatIlikeyou,mylord.Thisshouldbe

anenjoyabletrip.”Despitehisseeminglyjovialdemeanor,Brelisranatightship.Hissailors

hurriedtoobeyhiscommandsandhewasnotabovetellingDominicoranyoneelseontheshipwhattodo,expectingtobeobeyed.Hekeptaconstantwatchontheirnavigation,checkinghischartsagainsttheirspeedanddirectiontotracktheirlocation.Theshipspedalongdayandnight,keepingtheshorejustbeyondthehorizon.

TheyhadarrivedatFarSouthernlatelastnight,butwereforcedtowaitoutsidetheharboruntiltheharbormasterarrivedjustbeforedawn.TheharbormasterstoodnexttoanddirectedBrelisashemaneuveredtheWavemistresstothedock.Oncetheshipwasmoored,Brelis’sailorsbegantoleadthehorsesfromtheholdswhileDominic’spartygatheredtheirequipmentandsupplies.

“Iwillwaitforyouhere,mylord,toreturnyoutoDanelias.”BrelistoldDominicashepreparedtodisembark.Agrincrossedhisface.“Thequeenispayingmehandsomelyformytime,sothereisnohurrytoreturn.”

“Iwilltrytorememberthat,CaptainBrelis.”Dominicreplied,shakinghishead.“Iwouldnotwanttodoanythingtoshortchangeyou.”

Theywereheadedtothelocalgarrisontogathersomeadditionalsuppliesandawaterwagon.TheareawhereParshalthiawaslocatedwasbarrenandhot,withlittlewateravailable.Thewaterwagoncarriedenoughwatertotakecareoftheirandthehorses’needs.Itwouldslowthemdown,butMoshannatoldhimthattheycouldnotmakeittoParshalthiawithoutit.

Dominicglancedbehindhim.SergeantStonebuilder,theQueen’sGuardinchargeoftheothersoldiers,wasridingbehindTaricandHalana,theyoungfemalecleric,withafrownonhisface.StonebuilderhadnotbeenhappywhenDominichadtoldthem,beforetheylefttheship,thatMoshannawashissecond.

“Mylord,Imustprotest.”Hehadsaid.“Youcannotputatraitorinchargeofus.Hehasnohonor.”

“Sergeant,Iamincommand,placedtherebythequeenherself.”Dominichadresponded,fixingthemanwithasteadystare.“Moshannaismysecondandyouwillobeyhim.Ifnot,Iwilltakeyourmenandleaveyoubehind.YoucanexplaintoCommanderFarriousorthequeenwhyyourefusedtoaccompanymeasyouwereordered.”

Stonebuilderhadsatthereinstonysilence,finallynoddinghishead.“Itwill

beasyousay,mylord,butIdonothavetolikeit.”Dominicshookhisheadasheturnedforward.TheAletoniansandtheir

honor.Hethought.Moshannaneedstofindawaytoclearhisname.Theyrodeuptothelocalgarrison’sfortress,asquatbuildingmadeofthe

sameredstoneastherestofthebuildings.Itwaslocatednexttothewallthatsurroundedthetown,nearthemaingates.Theystoppedthehorsesunderanareadesignedforshade,openbutcoveredbyathinthatchedroof.DominicsentStonebuilderinsidetoarrangeforthewaterwagonwhiletherestwaited.

Aftertwentyminutes,Stonebuildercamearoundfromtherearofthebuilding,drivingawagonpulledbyfourhorses,withtwoverylargewoodenbarrelsmountedinplaceofthewagonbed.AtMoshanna’scommand,oneofthesoldierstiedoffStonebuilder’shorsetohisown.

“Areweready,Sergeant?”Dominicasked.“Weare,mylord.”Stonebuilderstated“Thenletusbegin.”Dominicsaid,spurringShadowforward.Astheypassedthroughthetowngates,headingwest,thepavedroad

transitionedtoahard-packeddirtroad.Thelandaheadofthemwasarockydesert,thesoilamonotonouspalebrown,withjumblesofredandlightyellowrocksrisingfromtheground.Theroadtheytraveledonextendedintohillsthatseemedtogoonforever.Exceptforsomegreenerynearthecoast,thehillswerelargelybarrenofplants.

Asthemorningpassedandthesuncontinueditsriseinthesky,thetemperaturebegantoriseaswell.Everyonewassoonsweating,thesoldiersburdenedwiththeirarmorandtheclericswiththeirrobes.DominicnoticedTaric,hisfacebrightred,starttoswayslightlyinhissaddleastheyrode.Halana,ridingclosetohim,handedhimawaterskinandencouragedhimtodrink.Afterhehaddrunkdeeply,shereachedoverandclaspedhishand,herformglowinginpower.Whenshereleasedherpower,hisfacewaslessflushedandhestraightenedinthesaddle.Heleanedclosetoherandsaidsomethingquietly.Sheletoutasoftlaughandpattedhishand,alargesmileonherface.

DominicsawthatMoshannahadfollowedhisgaze.Theysharedalook,bothslightlybemused.AfterHalanahadusedherhealingtohelpTaricwithhisseasickness,theyhadbecomeinseparableontheship.Theywerealwaystogether,oftenjustthetwoofthem,talkingquietly,theirinterestineachotherobvious.

“Areyousurethisisn’twhyJonassentyouwithme?”HehadsaidtoTariconthethirddayatsea.“Maybehewashopingtoseeyoumarriedoff.”

Tarichadflushedbrightred,embarrassed.“Itisnotlikethat,Dominic.Halanaisaskilledhealerandsheissimplyteachingmenewtechniques.”

“Ithoughtclericsweresupposedtotellthetruth,Brother.”Dominicreplied,cockinganeyebrow.HeclappedtheyoungclericontheshoulderasTaricsputtered,tryingtofigureoutaresponse.“Justmakesurethemissionisfinishedbeforeyoudecidetorunofftogether.”

Bymid-day,theyhaltedtowaterandrestthehorses.Theyateaquickmeal,sittingintheshadowoftheirhorsesandrefillingallofthewaterskinsfromthewagon.

“Thisheatcaneasilykillyou.”Welsen,oneoftheAletonianclerics,toldthemallastheypreparedtomount.HeandQuilian,thefourthcleric,werebotholdermen,eachhavingservedwiththearmy.“Untilwegrowusetoit,weallmustcontinuetodrinkwater.Everyoneshouldbeconsumingatleastaskinanhour.”

“Wewillalldoasyousay,Brother.”Dominicordered.Theyreachedtothemainnorth-southtraderouteinthelateafternoon.After

anothershortbreakwheretheclericscheckedontheconditionofbothmanandhorse,theyturnedsouth.Theroad,ifitcouldbecalledthat,waslightlytraveled.

“Thereisnotmuch,ifany,tradewiththepeopleoftheSouthernWilds.”Moshannaannouncedastheyheadedsouth.“IwasassignedtothegarrisonhereforsometimewhenIwasasoldier.Whilenotmuchisknownabouttheircustoms,theyareatribalpeople,constantlywarringwitheachother.Someinthenorthhadheadedsouth,hotheadslookingforadventureandclericsgoingtospreadthemessageoftheOneorjusttoattempttounderstandthesoutherners.Fewevercameback.WemayrunintobandsoftheWildmenasweheadsouth.Unlesstheyoutnumberus,theyarelikelytoscatter.Whileafightisunlikely,wemuststayvigilant.”

Asthesunsetinthewest,theystoppedandmadecamp,findingasuitableplaceashortwayofftheroad.Asnightsettledoverthehills,thetemperaturebegantofall.Afteradayofoppressiveheat,therelativelycoolnightfeltcold.Someofthepartybegantoshiverandwrappedthemselvesintheirsleepingblankets.

Dominicsetthesoldiers’scheduleforwatchwithStonebuilder,checkedonShadow,andthenwentovertositnexttoMoshanna.

“Whatcanweexpectgoingforward?”Heasked.“WeshouldbeabletomakeittotheroadthatleadstoParshalthia

tomorrow.”Moshannarepliedquietly.“Ihaveneverbeenthere,butIwastoldthatitisonlyaboutahalf-dayridetotheruinsfromthere.”

Dominicnodded.“DotheWildmentravelthere?Shouldweexpecttohavecontactwiththem?”

Moshannashookhishead.“Idoubtit.FromwhatIknowofthem,theytendtosticktothetradingroute,raidingthoseunfortunatesthatventuretoofarsouth.Iammoreconcernedaboutcomingacrossthedemonsandtheirfollowers.”

Heglancedovertowardstheclerics,whoweresittingnearthewagon.“Weonlyhavefourclerics.Wemustmakesurethattheyareprotectedorwewillsurelyfail.Iwouldrecommendthatweassignasoldiertoeach.Thatwillonlyleaveusandfivesoldierstomaneuver,butweneedtheclericswholeandfighting,ifwefacethedemons.”

Dominicconsideredit,andthennodded.“Inthemorning,IwillhaveStonebuildertaskhismentoprotecttheclerics.”

Theybrokecampintheearlymorning,ridingoutasthesunwasrising.Asthedaypassed,theheatroseandwasasbrutalasthedaybefore.Travelingthroughtherockyterrain,theroutewouldsometimesleadintosmallcanyonsthatproducedenoughshadetoprovideasmallmeasureofrelieffromtheharshheat.Despitetherelativecomfortofthecanyons,Dominicrefusedtostoptorestwhileinthem.Hepreferredopengroundwheretheycouldseetheirenemiescoming.

Inthelateafternoon,astheywerecrestingahill,Moshannahaltedthecolumnandpointeddownalongthepath.Inthedistance,throughtheheatshimmerrisingfromtheground,Dominicsawasmallgroupofmenrunningfromtherockyoutcroppingsthatlinedtherouteahead.Hecouldjustmakeoutwhatlookedlikelight-coloredarmoronthemenandlongwoodenspearsheldintheirhands.Thegroupturnedsouthalongtherouteand,constantlylookingbackovertheirshoulderstowardstheoutcroppings,continuedtorun.

“Wildmen?”HeaskedMoshanna.“Yes.”Moshannarepliedashestudiedtheoutcroppingsahead.“They

appeartobefleeingfromsomethingandIdon’tthinkitwasus.”Dominicnodded,havingthoughtthesamething.Heturnedandspoketothe

restoftheparty.“Wearecontinuingforward,butremainalertandready.TheWildmenappeartoberunningfromsomething,sothereislikelydangerahead.Ifattacked,wewillchargethroughtheambush,thenwheelaround.”

Theyrodeforward,therockyoutcroppingsaraggedmazeofredandgray

stone.Thesoldiersheldtheirspearsattheready,theclericsglowinginpowerwhileDominicandMoshannadrewtheirswords.Astheyenteredthearea,apalatabletensionhadgrippedthegroup,eyesscanningtherocksforperil.

Exceptforthesoundsofthehorsesandthewagonastheymoved,theairhadgonestill.Inthatstillness,Dominicheardthefaintsoundsofmovementamongsttherocks.Hetriedtolocatethepositionofthesound,butitfadedaway.TherewasabriefmomentofquietbeforeTariccriedoutashelaunchedablastofclerics’fire.“Demons!”

Outoftherocksfrombothsidesoftheroute,sixImpscameleapingout,bodiessurroundedbytheirpower.Taric’sblowstruckoneofthedemons,slammingitbackintoaboulder.Theotherclericsbegantofightwiththedemons,deflectingtheattackswhilethesoldiersloweredtheirspears,surgingforward.

Rightbehindthedemonscameatleastfifteenoftheirfollowers,howlingandchargingforward.DominicwheeledtofacetheonesonhissideoftheroutewhileMoshannaleaptfromhishorse,movingforward,swordready,morecomfortablefightingontheground.

AsDominicchargedShadowintothegroupcomingoutoftherocks,awidewaveofclerics’firestreakedpasthimandslammedintothemen.Thehalf-meninthegroupexplodedintoash,buttheothersmovedforwardunharmed.Dominicrodedirectlyintothem,swordswinging.Hecaughtonewithastroketothehead,themancrumplingtotheground,thendeflectedaswingfromanother’ssword.Shadowrananotherdown,hishindlegskickingout.

DominicrealizedthatthecloseproximityoftherockswouldpreventShadowfromeffectivemaneuvering,soheslidfromthehorse,rollingtohisfeetandseeingthetwomenracingforward.Hedrewhisdaggerandmettheircharge.Heslippedpastthefirstman,deflectinghisblade,andthendrovehisdaggerintothethroatofthesecondman.Releasingthedaggerasthemancollapsed,hespunandengagedtheotherman.Hisopponentwasgood,hisswordmovingquickly,butDominicchargedintohisguard,theman’ssworddeflectedbyhisbreastplateandsmashedhisforearmintotheman’sface.Asthemanstaggeredback,Dominic’sswordwasalreadymoving.Histhrustcaughtthemanbetweenhisthroatandthetopofhisarmor.Themancollapsed,bloodpulsingfromthewound.

Withnootherfollowersnearhim,Dominicranforward.Hecaughtaglimpseofademonahead.Heboundedoffashortrocknearthedemonandleaptforward,swordoverhead,pointdown.Thedemon,whichwasdirectingits

followers,musthaveheardhisapproach.Itspun,darkpowercoursingarounditsbody.

TimeseemedtoslowforDominic.Hesawtheblackfiregatherinthedemon’shands,thenlaunchtowardshim.Heknewthathecouldnotavoidtheblow.Embracethepain.Hegrimlytoldhimself,prayinghismomentumwouldallowhimdrivehisswordhomebeforehedied.

Justasthedemonfirereachedhisbody,brilliantgolden-whitelightburstfromhissword.Thelightshatteredthedemon’sattack,overwhelmingitsdarkpower.Beforethedemoncouldreact,Dominic’sswordslammedintoitschest,theglowingbladesizzlingasitslidin.Thedemonscreamedonce,thenconvulsed,explodingintoash,drivingDominicback.

Hestaredathisswordforamoment,thebladenormalagain.IthadtobeTomaris.Hethought,recallingtheoldmanhandlinghissword.Heshouldhavegivenmesomewarning.Thatsuddenlighthasstartledhimsomuchthathehadalmostdroppedthesword.

Shakingoffhisthoughts,hesurgedbackintothefight.Anotherdemonfelltohissword,thelightflaringagain,andthenhewasengagedwiththreeofthedemons’followers.Hewasusingallofhisskilltokeeptheirbladesaway,hissinglebladeablurasheparriedtheirblows.Suddenly,aspearpointthrustfrombehindhimonhisleft,takingoneofhisopponentsinthestomach.Anotherspearflashedpasthimonhisright,knockingtheothermanback,followedbyStonebuilderwithhisswordinhishand.

“Hold!”DominicheardMoshannashoutbehindhimashefinishedthemaninfrontofhimwithacoupleofswiftblows.Dominicturnedaroundtoseetheremainingtwodemonsretreatingwithwhatwasleftoftheirfollowersintothestonesacrosstheroute,deflectingtheclerics’attacksastheyfled.

DominicsalutedStonebuilderandtheothersoldierthathadcometohisaid.Hewhistled,callingShadow.Thehorsemadeitswaythroughtherocksbacktohim.Dominicswungintothesaddleandrodeforward.Hesawthattwoofthesoldiersweredead,burneddownbythedemons.Theclericswereallunharmed,movingaroundhealingthewounded.

DominicrodeovertoMoshanna,whowasinspectingthebodyofoneofthefallendemonfollowers.Hewasunharmed,hisskillwiththeswordprotectinghim.

“Anythinguseful?”Dominicasked.Moshannastoodandshruggedhisshoulders.“ThismanwasAletonian,but

wasnotunderthedemons’power.Ihaveheardthatsomeservewillingly,but

thisisthefirsttimeIhavefacedonesuch.Thereisnothingonhimtogiveanyclues,butI’mnotsureIlikewhatitportends.”

“Wewillprobablyfacemoretroublingthingstomorrow,iftheswordisintheruins.”Dominicsaidquietly,gazingtowardsthesettingsun.“Let’smoveoffandfindasafeplacetocamp.Wewillallneedourrestbeforetomorrow.”

…Fartothenorthandwest,wherethesunwasstillwellabovethehorizon,a

hoodedandrobedfiguresatinthewoods,watching.BruceTilianeededtofindsomeonewhocouldcarrytheswordandthislookedtobealikelyspot.

Whilehesatonhishorsewaitingandwatching,heshifteduncomfortably.SomethingaboutthesewoodsremindedhimofAndersonGrovebackhome.Hecouldnottellwhatitwas,maybethetrees,butitbroughtbackmemories.Eventhoughhehatedthosememories,theystillcame,unbiddenandunwelcome.

Hehadbeenawkwardasateenager,thin,ganglyandabitofaklutz.Hisinterestinsci-fiandfantasyoversportsidentifiedhimasageek.Whenhefinallyhitpuberty,hisrewardwasabadcaseofacne.Hisfamilyhadstruggledtomakeendsmeet,soheneverhadthecoolclothesandacarwasoutofthequestion.Hehadacoupleoffriends,geekslikehim,buthealwaysdesiredwhatheperceivedasthegoodlifeoftherichkids.

Unfortunately,thatwasnevertobe.Despitehisbesteffortstofitin,TimMastersandJoeWallacehadmadehighschoolalivinghellforhim.Timplayedbaseballandwasconsideredoneofthebestlookingguysinhisclass,tallwithblondhairandblueeyes.HisfriendJoe,dark-hairedandshorter,spenthisfreetimeintheweightroomandwasknownasquitethelady’sman.TheyridiculedBruceateverychance,pullingcruelpranksonhimandhumiliatinghiminfrontofthegirls.ThepivotalmomentcameafterhehadsummonedthecouragetosendSallyHill,aprettyandpopulargirlinhismathclasswhomhehaddesperatelywantedtodate,anoteaskingherout.

Tohissurprise,hereceivedareturnnote,signedbySally,askinghimtomeetheratAndersonGroveafterschool.Sheexplainedthatherfriendswouldneverunderstand,soshewantedtomeethimprivately.Suchwashisexcitementoverherresponsethatheneverconsidereditwasanythingbutanhonestreply.

HehadwalkedouttotheGrove,constantlycheckinghimselftoensurehelookedhisbest.Hewenttothespotwhereshesaidtomeether,gettingthereearly.Hewasthinkingaboutwhatheshouldsay,gatheringhiscourage,whenafamiliarvoicestartledhimoutofhiscontemplation.

“Whatadumbass!”HeheardTim’svoicesoundfromthetreesnearby.His

heartsankashesawTimandJoewalkoutoftheGrove.Timwaslookingathimwithacruelgleaminhiseyes.“DidyoureallybelievethatsomeonelikeSallywouldactuallybeinterestedinyou?”Hespatcontemptuously.

“Youaresucharetard!”Joesaid,asmirkonhisface.Hishandscurledintofists.“I’mgoingtoenjoykickingyourass.”

Brucesprangtohisfeet,backingaway.Heknewhisonlyoptionsweretofight,whichwasoutofthequestion,orrun.TimandJoe’spositionsmeantthattheonlywaytorunwasbackintotheGrove.MaybeIcanlosetheminthetrees.Hethought.

Beforeeitherofthemreacted,BrucespunandranasfastashecouldintotheGrove.Heheardthehootsoflaughtercomingfrombehindhim.

“Keeprunning!”HeheardJoeshoutgleefully.“YouwillonlyenduptiredandbeatenwhenIamdonewithyou.”

Terrifiedbythethoughtofthosetwocatchinghim,Bruceranashardashecould.Heturnedandweavedthroughthetrees,tryingtoshakehispursuers.Hesoonlosttrackofwherehewasrunning.Hecameoutintotheclearingaroundthepond,hisbreathraggedinhisthroat.

Stoppingtocatchhisbreath,hekneltontherockthatjuttedintothepond.Hisheartpounding,heheardhistormentersgettingcloser.Heknewthattheywouldsoonhavehim.Heblinkedbackthesuddentears,anticipatingthepainthatwouldshortlybevisiteduponhim.

Adesperateideaformedwhenhesawthetallreedsthatweregrowinginthemiddleofthepond.Heslidintothecoldwaterandmadehiswaytothereeds,hopingthathecouldhideinthemandprayingtheywouldgivehimenoughcover.Hetreadedwater,tryingtostayasstillaspossible.HehadjustcaughtaglimpseofTimcomingoutofthewoodswhenitfeltlikesomethinggrabbedhimbyhislegsandhewaspulledunder.

Instinctively,hescreamed,knowingitwasstupid,butinsteadofswallowingwater,hefoundhimselfsurroundedinabrightlight.Hecouldnotmove,thelightwrappingtightlyaroundhisbody.Ithadbeenwarminthelight,theonlysensationbeingoneofmovement.

Lostinthatwarmth,hehadnotbeenpreparedwhenthedarknesssuddenlyslammedintothelight.Hehadbeenterrifiedanewwhenthedarknesshadovercomethelight,surroundinghiminacold,blackoblivion.Thecoldwaseverywhere,numbinghismind,butthesensationofmovementhadcontinued.

Thedarknessbegantofade,slowlydissipatinglikeamist.Whenitcleared,hehadfoundhimselfonarockyhill,acoolcostalwindblowing.Helooked

around,seeingsomescatteredtreesamongsttherocks,theskyovercast,filledwithroilinggrayclouds.Fallingtohisknees,heheldhisheadinhishands,certainthathewaslosinghismind.

Whilehekneltthere,completelybewildered,hefeltsuddenlylightheaded.Ashesatdowntoforestallfallingover,hisheartstillpoundinginhischest,heheardtheapproachofhorses.Helookeduptoseeagroupofmenonhorsescomeridingoverthehill.Brucesawthattheywerearmedwithswordsandwearingleatherarmorwithmetalringssewedin.Theyrodeuptohimandencircledhim.

Brucesawthewildlookintheireyesforthefirsttime.Theyweregrinningathim,tauntinghimastheycircledhim.Theyfinallystopped,themanapparentlyinchargeslidingoffhishorse.Brucetriedtotalkwithhim,tofindoutwhatwashappening,butthemansimplylaughedandslappedhimhardacrosstheface.Themanroughlygrabbedhimbythearm,twistingitandforcinghimtotheground.Shortly,Brucefoundhimselfboundanddrapedoverahorse.

Themenrodeoff,laughingandjoking,Brucebouncingagainstthehorse’sback.Hisheadrockingbackandforth,Brucecouldonlycatchglimpsesofwheretheyweregoing.Itwasonlywhenthemenslowedthathewasabletoseewhatlayahead.

Beforethemwasalargefortress,madeofuglydarkgraystones,toweringabovetherollinghills,aheavymetalgatenearthebase.ItremindedBruceofsomethingoutofoneofhisfantasynovels.Themenrodeuptothegateandstopped.

Hewasdraggedoffthehorseandyankedtohisfeet,themenunconcernediftheyhurthim.Theypushedhimintothefortress,proddinghimalongwithkicksandblows.Thelargehallwayhefoundhimselfwascoldandfrightening,withonlyafewtorcheslightingtheway.

Suddenly,hefeltasifsomethinghadseizedhisheartandslammedhimintoanicylake,pureterrorcoursingthroughhisbody.Ashortrobedfigureappearedinthehallwayaheadofhim.Themenguardinghimbowedasthefigureapproached,draggingBrucetohisknees.Bruce’steethwerechattering,tearswellinginhiseyes,feelinglikehewasgoingtopisshimselfasthefigurestoppedinfrontofhim.Hestaredinhorroratthebrown-scaledface,thoseblackeyesandsharpteeth.

“Iwilltakehimfromhere.”TheImpsaid,clutchingBruce’sarm.Themenbowedagainandleft.ThedemonyankedBrucetohisfeet.“Let’sgo,boy.My

Masterawaitsyou.”ItsaidwithalowchucklethatfrozeBruce’sblood.Hewashalf-draggeddownthehallandpulledthroughthesetofdouble

doors.Hecaughtaglimpseofthestonethroneandthatswirlingblackvortexbeforehewasslammedtothestonefloor.

“Donottreatourguestsoroughly,mybrother.”Anothervoice,deepandpowerful,saidfromthedirectionofthethrone.“Iwanthimtofeelwelcomehere.”

“Asyoucommand,Master.”TheImpsaid,backingaway.“Rise,mortal.”Thevoicesaid.Brucesenseditcomingcloser.“Youwill

notbeharmedanyfurther.”Brucelayquiveringonthefloor,unabletorise,hisbodyunresponsive,terror

overwhelminghim.Helaythereuntilhefelthandsgrasphisshouldersandlifthimup.Lookingup,hesawhisMasterforthefirsttime.

ThesoundofthedoorofthefarmhouseopeningandclosingbroughtBrucebacktothepresent.Heshudderedslightly,recallingthatfirsttouchofhisMaster.HisMasterhadshownhimmanythings,includingthetruenatureofhispower,buthestillhatedandfearedhim.

Agirlaroundfifteenorsixteenhadexitedthehouse,headingtowardsthebarn.Shewasdressedinaroughlinendress,ashawlcoveringhershoulders,withleatherbootsvisibleunderherskirt.Perfect.Brucethoughtashestartedhishorseforward.

Hecircledaroundtothebacksideofthebarn,gettingoffthehorseandlistening.Heheardthegirlsingingsoftlyassheworkedinside.Hewentovertothesidedoorandslippedinside.

Thegirlwasdistracted,feedingthecowsthatwereinsidethebarn,anddidnotnoticehimatfirst.Heapproachedher,studyingherashegotclose.Shewasattractive,withlightbrownhairandpaleskin.Whenshestraightenedandcaughtsightofhim,hesawherprettyblueeyesgrowwidewithfear.

ShescreamedoncebeforeBruceusedhispower,reachinginandtouchingherlifeforce.Sincehewasawielderofthedemons’power,thegirl’slifeforcehurthim,hiseyebrowsclinchingfromthepain.Heenduredit,ashisMasterhadtaughthimthatheonlyneededtodrawatinybittoinfluenceher.

Herscreamendedandshestaredathim,eyesnowunfocused.Gentlypullingatherlifeforce,hespoke.“Youwillcomewithmeandnotresist.YouwilldoasIcommandwhenIcommandit.Nodifyouunderstand.”Thegirlnodded.

Hegentlyreleasedherlifeforce,allowingthesuggestiontotakehold.

“Followme.”Hesaidandexitedthebarn,thegirlclosebehindhim.Afterheclimbedontohishorseandpulledherupinfrontofhim,hebegan

torideoffwhenanarrowflewpasthishead,thefletchingmakingaslightbuzzingsoundasitpassed.Lookingbacktowardsthehouse,hesawanoldermanstandingintheyardbetweenthehouseandbarn,notchinganotherarrowintohisbow.Behindhimwasawomanwholookedsimilartothegirl,clutchingasmallboytoher.

“ReleasemydaughterorIwillnotmissthistime!”Themanshouted,raisingthebow.

Brucelaughed,hispowerfillinghim.Beforethemancouldreact,Brucecoveredhimindarkfire,themancryingoutinagonybrieflybeforecollapsingintoaburningheap.Brucestruckthewomanandboy,killingthemaswell.

Thegirlcriedoutatthesightandbegantoweep.“Enough!”Brucesnappedasheturnedthehorsenorth.

Thegirlimmediatelywentsilent.Brucebootedthehorseforward,holdingontothereinswithonehandandwrappinghisotherhandaroundthegirl.Hecouldfeelherbreastsrightabovehisarmastheyrode.Anotherbenefitoffindingthisgirl.Hesmiledtohimself,thinkinglustfulthoughts.

Astheyrodeaway,theblack,oilysmokeroseintotheairbehindthemandnearsilencedescendedoverthefarmstead.Theonlysoundintheareawasthelowcracklingofburningflesh.

CHAPTERTWENTY

Withadensebankofcloudsoverheadblockingoutthemoonandstars,thetorchesliningthestreetsmadesmallpoolsoflight,separatedbygapsofshadow.MarcuswaitedneartheTemple,standingintheshadows,hisshieldonhisarm.DaenandNathenwerejustbehindhim.AfterMarcushadcarriedhimtoJonasforhealing,Nathentoldthemwhathadhappenedinthedungeons.BothweredressedintheirarmorandanewswordhadbeenfoundforNathen.

Nearby,hiddenfromview,werefiftyRoyalGuardsmen,alongwithtenclerics.TheywerewaitingfororderstomoveoutfromCommanderHelgrant.MarcushadbeensurprisedwhenHelgranthadcomebackwithDaenwhenhehadreturnedfromtryingtolocatetheGuardsmenwhoworkedinthedungeon.HelgrantandJonashadspokenprivately,andthenHelgranthadjoinedtheirmeetinglastnight.HeannouncedthathewouldsupportanyactionthatJonasfeltwasneeded.

“Weneedtotrackdownthisdemon.”Jonashadsaid.“Ifitcanmoveaboutthroughthetunnelsandsewers,thenitcanstrikeanywhereinthecity.Iamafraidthatincludesthepalace.”

“Wealsoneedtofindawaytogettotheking.”Hecontinued.“Wehavetoknowifheisundertheinfluenceofthedemon.Ifheisactingoutofduressorbeingheldcaptiveandforcedtomaketheordersheisissuing,thenweneedtorescuehim.”

“Howdoyousuggestthatweaccomplishthis?”Marcusasked.“Wearebarredfromthepalaceandmyfather’smen-at-armscontrolalloftheaccessestoit.”

“Maybenotall.Nathentoldusofhisflightfromthedungeons.”Jonasreplied.“Hespokeofstrugglingupasetofstairswhenheheardvoicesthatsoundedlikeyourfather’smenandwasforcedtoretreatbackintothesewers.Ibelievethatthosestairsofferawayintothepalace.CommanderHelgrantcantakehismeninthatway.”

“So,wearegoingtoassaultthepalacefromtheinside?”Marcusasked.“EvenifHelgrantcangetenoughGuardsmentoovercomemyfather’smen,fightinginthepalacewillputKeriaatrisk.Iwillnotallowthat.”

“Stoppingademonrunninglooseinthecityismoreimportantthananyone’spersonalsafety,includingtheprincess.”Jonasargued,thoughhisfacewascompassionate.“Ifwecancontrolthepalace,thatdeniesthedemonastrong

location.”“Letmegoinfirstthen.”Marcuspleaded.“Iknowmywayaroundthe

palace.IcanreachKeria’sroomandsafeguardherwhenHelgrantbeginshisassault.”

“Iwillgowithyou,Marcus.”Nathenstated.“Youwillneedsomeonetoguardyourback.”

“Iwillgoaswell.”Daensaid,lookingatHelgrant.“IftheCommanderapproves.”

“Weareallsworntoprotecttheroyalfamilyandhavemadeamessofit.”Helgrantsaid.“Ifyouthreebelievethatyoucanreachanddefendtheprincess,thenyouhavemypermissionandblessing.IwillgatherasmanyoftheRoyalGuardasIcanfindtoassaultthepalace.Wewillseekoutthekingonceweareinside.”

“Iwillsendmyclericswithyou.”Jonassaid.“Ifthedemonisthere,youwillneedtheirpower.”

“Whatareyougoingtodo,Jonas?”Marcusasked.“IamgoingtofollowNathen’spathbacktothedungeons.”Jonassaid,face

turninggrim.“WiththeRoyalGuarddispersed,wedonothaveenoughmentoassaultboththedungeonsandthepalace.Thepalacemusttakepriorityforyourmen.Ifthedemonisstillinthedungeons,Iplanonconfrontinganddestroyingit.Ifitisgone,thenIwillattempttotrackitdown.”

“Iwillgowithyou.”Norlaninterjected.Hehadbeensittingtheresilently,listeningtotheconversation.“Iamnotasoldier,butIwillnotallowyougooffbyyourself.Theremaybenormalmenthereaswell,soyourpowerwillnotbeenough.”

“Youshouldstaywithyourfamily-.”Jonasbegan.“Ihavepledgedmyselftothiscause.”Norlaninterrupted,voicefirm.“I

cannotstandbywhileyouallriskeverythingtosaveourcity.”JonascouldtellthatNorlanwouldnotbedissuaded.“Iwillwelcomeyour

presence,Norlan,butyoumustagreetofleeifItellyouto.”“Wecandiscussthatwhenitcomestopass,Jonas.”Norlanstated,crossing

hisarms.EvenasMarcusthoughtofwhatNorlanhadsaidthepreviousnight,Norlan

appearedfromtheTemple,walkingnexttoJonas.Marcuswassurprisedwhentheystoppednearby.Norlanwaswearingaheavybreastplate,histhickarmsbare,holdingalargewoodenmaulinhishand,asinglemetalspikeextendingfromeachendoftheheadofthehammer.HewasholdingtheleashtoMaxisin

theother,thebigdogstayingclose.MarcusandHelgrantjoinedthem.“Wheredidyougetyourarmorand

weapon,Norlan?”Marcuswhispered.“Imadethemfollowingtheattackonthecity.”Herepliedquietly.“Iwas

determinedtobeproperlypreparedtodefendmyfamily,iftheneedroseagain.”“WhereareMadalinandCherise?”Marcusinquired.“IsentthemtostaywithfriendsandtoldthemtofleethecityifIdonot

returnbythemorning.”Norlansaid.HereachedoverandpattedMaxis.“CheriseinsistedthatItakethedog.”

“Weareasreadyaswearegoingtobe.”Jonassaid,hisstaffrestinginthecrookofhisarm.“LetusdothisandmaytheOnegrantusvictory.”

AtJonas’signal,Nathentookthelead,takingthembacktotheopeningthathehadcomeoutwhenheescapedthedungeons.Theopeningwasfairlysmall,sotheyhadtoenteroneatatime.Helgrantorderedsomeofhismenprotectthearea,watchingforanyonethatcouldgiveawaytheirlocation,whiletheyenteredintothesewers.

Marcuswentthroughtheopening,nosewrinklingatthesmell,seeingwhatlookedlikeablackpitdirectlyahead.Thestonefloor,slickwithmoisture,begantoangledown,descendingintothedarkness.HesawtheGuardsmenaheadofhimdisappearastheycrossedintothatblackness.Hefollowed,shiftinghisshieldtohisbacktofreehishands.Ashepassedintothetunnel,abrightlightsuddenlyshonebelow,lightingthenarrowwallsasJonascalleduphispower.Hewasjoinedbytheotherclerics,fillingthesewertunnelswithgoldenlight.MarcussawNorlanbelowhim,Maxispressedagainsthisleg,astheyslowlymadetheirwaydown.

AfterallofthepartywasgatheredinthetunnelsandHelgrantnoddedtoJonas,theystartedtowardsthepalace.Jonasplacedclericsattheendsoftheirline,preparedtodefendagainstthedemon.Thetunnelsechoedtheirpassage,despitetheirbesteffortstomovequietly.

Theysooncameuponacrosstunnelandhalted.Afterglancingdownthetunnel,NathenspokequietlytoJonas,whonoddedandcalledthemtogathercloser.

“Nathentellsmethatthisisthetunnelthatleadstothepalace.”Jonassaidquietly.“Marcus,yourteamwillgofirst,followedbytherestoftheforceaftertenminutes.Fiveoftheclericswillgowiththatforce.Theotherfivewillremainhere,toprotectyourrearifthedemonappears.NorlanandIwillcontinueontothedungeons.”

Heraisedhishandinbenediction.“GowiththeblessingsoftheOne.MayHekeepyousafeandinHisLight.”Withthat,he,Norlanandthedogcontinuedon,disappearingintothedarktunnels.

“Lucktousall.”Marcussaidtotheothers,lightingasmalltorch,thenmotionedNathenandDaentojoinhim.Theystartedforward,thelightoftheclericsfadingbehindthem.

Afteraroundfiveminutesofwalking,theyreachedasetofstairsliketheoneNathenhadmentioned.MarcuslookedthequestionatNathen,whonodded.Theypaused,listeningforanysounds.Hearingnone,Marcustossedthetorchintotheslowlyflowingwater,plungingthemintodarkness.Hestrappedonhisshieldanddrewhissword.DaenandNathenfollowedhislead,armingthemselves,andthentheystartedup.

Astheyclimbed,thestairsmadeseveralturns,buttherewasnoexitthattheycouldfind.Theycontinuedup,movingquickly,butquietly,listeningforanysounds.Theywereapproachinganotherturninthestairswhentherewasasuddenlightahead.

Theyflattenedthemselvesagainstthewalls,tryingtostayhidden.Theyheardthelowsoundsofmentalking,andthenthelightfaded,followedbythesoundofadoorclosing.

Theymovedahead,ascendingthestairsuntiltheycameuponawoodendoor.Marcusputhisearagainstthedoor,listening.Hecouldnottellifanyonewasontheotherside.Hetookadeepbreath,slowlyliftingthelatch,themetalsqueakingslightlyasitrubbedagainstthedoorframe.Lungingforward,hethrewthedooropenandleaptintotheopening.

Hesawthathewasinastorageroom,withtoolsandboxesscatteredaround,andsomestrawcoveringthefloor.Therewereseveraltorcheslitandhangingonthewalls.Acrosstheroom,hesawtwopalaceservants,themenbackingawayinsurprise,eyeswideanddisbelieving.MarcusquicklycrossedtheroomtoconfronttheservantsasDaenandNathenfollowedhimin,movingtoblockthedooragainstthefarwall,preventingtheirexit.

“Donotcryout.”Marcustoldthemenfirmly,raisinghissword.Themenbackedawayuntiltheywereagainstthewall.“Weareheretodefendtheprincess.TheRoyalGuardwillbefollowingusshortly.Ihavetopreventyoufromwarningtheothers,sowewillconfineyouhere.Ifyouaretrueservantsoftheroyalfamily,youhavenothingtofear.Youwillbereleasedwhenwehaveaccomplishedourmission.”

ThemencompliedwhenDaenfoundsomeropeandorderedthemtokneel.

Hetiedofftheirarms,thengentlylaidthemdownandboundtheirfeet.Nathentoresomestripsfromtheirclothinganduseitasgags.Theyshiftedthemenbehindsomeboxes,andthenmovedon,exitingtheroom.

Theyenteredthehallwaybeyondtheroom.Theydidnotseesignsofanyoneelse.Movingswiftly,theywenttotheendofthehallway,wheretherewasaconnectinghallway,thisonelitwithmanytorches.

“Doyouknowwhereweare?”Marcusasked,notrecognizingthearea.“Youhavegottostartinteractingwiththecommonpeople,Marcus.”

Nathensaidlightly,thoughhewaswatchingthetunnelformovement.“Thisistheconnectingtunnelthatallowstheservantstomovequicklyandunseenfromthekitchenstotheroyalsuites.Weneedtogoright.”

Nodding,Marcusledthemdownthehall,fullyexpectingtorunintosomeservantsalongtheway.Surprisingly,theymadeittothestaircaseattheendofthehallundetected.Nathenmotionedtogoup.Marcusheadedupslowly,hiscompanionsrightbehindhim,hisswordready.Whentheyreachedadoornearthetopofthestairs,Nathenputahandonhisshoulder,haltinghim.

“Thiswillopenintothehallwaythatleadstotheroyalsuites.”Nathenwhisperedinhisear,solowthatMarcuscouldalmostnothearhim.“Wearelikelytorunintoguardsontheotherside.”

Marcusnoddedandgraspedthelatch.Heslowlyopenedthedoor,lookingoutofthegrowinggapdownthehallway.Severalfeetaway,hesawthebacksoftwoofhisfather’smen-at-arms.HegesturedtoDaenandNathen,indicatingtwoenemies.Whentheynodded,hepushedthedooropenandsurgedforward.ThemenhadbarelybeguntoturnatthenoisewhenMarcusplungedhisswordintothebackofthemanontheright,drivingitthroughhim,thepointexitingtheman’schest.Theotherbegantocryout,butDaenslammedhisshieldintotheman’sheadandthrusthisswordintohischest.Themanfellnexttohiscompanion.

Theyquicklydraggedthedeadmenintothestairwell,closingthedoorbehindthemandcontinuedon.Marcushatedhavingtostrikeamanfrombehind,buthewoulddoitoverandoverifitmeantprotectingKeria.Heknewthewaynowandhurriedtowardsherrooms.

Whenhereachedthehallwaythatledtoherrooms,hepaused,lookingdownthehall.HestiffenedwhenhesawRolasandtwosoldiersapproachherdoor.Rolassaidsomethingthatcausedthementolaughroughly,andthenstrodeintoKeria’sapartment.Hesawthesoldiersleanagainstthedoor,listening.

“Rolasishere.”Marcustoldhiscompanions,voicecoldandhard.“There

aretwosoldiersatthedoor.IwantyoutodealwiththemwhileIconfrontmybrother.”Whentheynodded,Marcuschargeddownthehall,DaenandNathenmovingwithhim.

Thetwosoldiersjerkedbackfromthedoors,handsgoingtotheirswords,asthethreeheadedstraightforthem.Marcusdrovehisshieldintotheclosestone,knockinghimbackintohispartner.Spinningawayfromtheimpact,hechargedthroughthedoorswhileDaenandNathenengagedthesoldiers.

Glancingaroundthesittingroom,hesawthatRolaswasnotthere.HeheardKeriacryoutfrombehindthecloseddoorsofherbedroom.Hismindsuddenlyredwithrage,heranforwardandslammedintothedoors,shatteringthelocksandsplinteringthewood.Hestumbledbriefly,butcaughthimself.

Acrosstheroom,nearthebed,MarcussawthatRolashadKeriabyonearmwhilehisotherhandwaspullingatherdress.MarcussawaredmarkonKeria’scheekwhereshehadbeenstruck.HisbrotherpushedherawayashespuntofaceMarcus.

“So,mydearbrotherreturns.”Rolassaidmockinglyashedrewhisswordandsteppedawayfromthebed.“Playingtheherountiltheend.Thistime,Fatherwillnotbearoundtosaveyou.”

Teethclenchedinfury,Marcusclosedthegapwithhisbrother.Hisbrothermovedquicklytocounterhim,hisswordmoving.Marcustooktheblowinhisshield,slashingwithhissword.Hisbrotherdancedoutoftheway,andthenattacked.Marcusbarelydeflectedthestrokewithhissword,andthenswunghisshield.Hisshieldclippedhisbrotherontheshoulder,knockinghimoffbalance,buthewasabletomoveoutofthereachofMarcus’swordbeforehecouldstrike.

Thesoundoftheclashingsteelechoedintheroomasthetwobrothersfought.Theycircledeachother,stalkinglikepredators,oneattackingwhiletheotherdefended.Therewasnothoughtofquarter,thehatebetweenthemoverwhelminganysenseofchivalry.Theycontinuedtoattempttolandadecisiveblow,buttheywereevenlymatched.

DaenandNathenburstintotheroomandmovedtosupportMarcus.TheywereclosingonRolaswhenMarcusshoutedatthem.

“No!”Heyelled.“Heismine.ProtectKeria.”Hisfriendssharedalook,butwentovertothebed,placingthemselvesbetweenthecombatantsandtheprincess.

RolassneeredatMarcus’warning.“Itistheotherwayaround,littlebrother.Youaremine!”Withthat,hesurgedforward,hisswordspinningand

dartingin,attackingallout.Marcuswasforcedbackbythesavageryoftheattack,barelykeepingRolas’

swordatbay.HestumbledagainstapieceofKeria’sfurniture,losinghisbalance.Rolasstruckquickly,hisswordslippingpastMarcus’guard,thepointdrivingintothechainmail.Marcusfelttheswordtipslideintohisflesh,suddenpainbloominginhisupperabdomen.

Hespunaway,bringingshielduptodeflectRolas’nextattack.Ashedidthat,Rolasswunghisforwardleg,catchingMarcusnearhisankles,sweepinghisfeetfromunderhim.Marcusrolled,dodgingaheavyswingthatrangasthebladestruckthefloor,tryingtogethisfooting.Rolasfollowed,afixedsmileonhisface,hisswordcomingdownagain.Marcuswasabletogethisshieldupintimetocatchtheblow.

ButRolaswasoverconfident,steppingtoocloseinhisapproach.Marcusdesperatelyswunghissword,thetipcatchingRolasjustbelowhisknee.TheswordbitdeepandRolasstumbledback,howlinginpain.

Marcusgottohisfeetandcharged,shieldup.Rolastriedtomove,buthisinjuredlegslowedhim.Marcusslammedintohim,drivinghimfromhisfeet.MarcusthrusthissworddownwardsandstruckRolasjustbelowtheheart.Hisbrotherconvulsed,astrangledscreamcomingfromhislips,andhisswordtumbledfree.Marcusyankedhisswordoutandfellback,goingtoonekneeandclutchinghiswound.

Rolaslookedoverathim,hisvisagerackedwithpain,buteyesfilledwithhate.“Youthinkyouhavewon,brother,butyouhavealreadylost.”Hegasped,thenshudderedoncemoreandlaystill.

AsMarcuskneltandstaredathisbrother,hisemotionsroiling,Keriaandhisfriendscameuptohim.Theyliftedhismailandpushedacrumpledpieceofbedsheetagainsthiswound,securingitwithlongstripsofcloth.Afterthebandagewasinplace,theyhelpedhimup.Grippinghissword,hespoke.“WeneedtogetKeriaoutofthepalace.”

Keriaplacedahandonhisarm,shakingherhead.“Wecannotleaveyet.Wehavetoseeifwecanmakeittomyfather’squarters.Somethinghashappenedtohim;Iknowheisindanger.”

“TheRoyalGuardareassaultingthepalacebynow.”Marcussaid.“Itistoodangerousforustotakeyouthere.Wemustgetyououtofthepalace.IswearthatIwillreturnandlookforyourfather.”

“Iwillnotleave,Marcus.”Keriasaidstubbornly.“Icangiveyouaroyalcommand,butIwouldratheryousupportmeinthis.”

Marcusstaredatherasheweighedhisoptions.Hisfirstinstinctwastosimplygrabheranddragherfromthepalace,butheknewthatwouldbeamistakethatwouldcosthimdearly.Hecouldleaveherhere,underNathenandDaen’sprotection.Unfortunately,shewouldsimplycommandthemtodoasshesaidandtheywould.Whilehewasloathtoexposehertodanger,hedidnotseeanyothergoodoptionifsheinsistedongoing.

“Verywell,Keria.”Marcussaid.“However,myconditionisthis:youwillagreetoobeymeuntilwearesafelyawayfromthepalace.IfIfeelthatitistoodangeroustocontinue,wewillturnaround.IfItellyoutorun,youwillrunwithoutquestion.Doyouagreetothis?”

Kerialookedintohiseyes,herowneyesshiningwithprideandlove.“Iagree,Marcus.”Shesaidsimply.

“Staynexttome.”Marcussaidastheystartedtowardsthedoor.Astheygotclosetothehallway,theycouldhearthedistantshoutsandscreamsasfightingragedinthepalace.Helgrant’steamhadindeedbeguntheirassault.Marcusglanceddownthehall,butotherthanthetwobodiesofthesoldiers,noonewasinsight.

Hesignaledandtheymoveswiftlydownthehall.Theyheadedtowardstheking’schambers,stoppingtoglancedownthecrossinghallways,thencontinuedon.Marcusknewthattheywouldbepassingtheapartmentsthatthekinghadassignedtohisfamily.Astheydrewclose,hestoppedthesmallparty.

“Ineedtoconfrontmyparents.”Hetoldthemquietly.“Theyarebehindmuchofwhathappenedhere,soIneedtoknowwhy.Wemaygetsomeanswersthatwillhelpussavetheking.”HelookedoveratKeria.“Iftheywillnottalk,thenwewillcontinueon.”

Sheplacedahandonhisarmandnoddedsympathetically.“Wewillstop,Marcus.”

Theycontinuedslowlymovingforward,watchfulforLordMarcelas’men-at-arms.Theyreachedthedoorstotheapartmentswithoutanyconfrontations.MarcuswasreachingforthehandlewhenDaennudgedhim.HeturnedandsawCaptainJustiancomingdownthehall,swordinhand.MarcusstartedtostepforwardwhenNathenstoppedhim.

“Go.Iwilldealwiththisone,Marcus.”Hesaidgrimly,faceamaskashestaredatJustian.“IowehimforwhathappenedtoSisterSilvan.”

“Go,Marcus.”Daensaidaswell.“Wewillmakesureyouareundisturbed.”Marcusnoddedandopenedthedoorashisfriendsmoveddownthehall.He

andKeriawentinside,closingthedoorbehindthem.Marcusmotionedfor

Keriatostaybehindhimastheymovedtowardsthelivingquarters.Therewereonlyafewcandlesburningwhentheyenteredthelibrary.Thosecandlesandthecracklingembersinthefireplaceweretheonlylightintheroom,leavingpocketsofshadow.WhenMarcuslookedtowardsthefireplace,hesawthetopofhisfather’sheadinoneofthechairsfacingthefire.Hemovedaroundthechairtoconfronthisfather.

Hisfatherwassittingthere,slightlyslumpedover,skinpaleandeyesopen,fixedandstaring.Hismouthhungopen,drieddroolvisibleonthecorners,hisfacecoveredinroughstubble.Marcuskneltdownandreachedouttotouchhishand,butitwasalreadycold.HeheardKeriagasp.

Movementnearthecorneroftheroomcaughthisattention.Herosequicklyandbroughtuphissword.Ashewatched,hismothersteppedintothelightofanearbycandle,holdingawineglassinherhand.

“Whatisthisabout,Mother?”Marcusdemanded.“WhathappenedtoFather?”

Hismothersatdowninachairandtookanotherdrinkbeforesheresponded.Shelookedupatherson,hereyescoldbutslightlyunfocused.“Thatwasyourfoolishbrother’sdoing.”Shesaid.“Itoldhimthatthepotionhadtobeusedinsmalldoses,buthedidnotlisten.”

“Potion?”Marcusdemanded.“Whatareyoutalkingabout?”“IwasgivenapotionbythedemonsIserve.”Hismotherreplieddirectly,

seeminglyunconcernedabouttherevelation.“Itmakesmenbiddabletosuggestion.Ithastobeusedcarefullybecausetoomuchwillkill.”Shesmiledacruelsmile,twistingthatbeautifulface.“WhydoyouthinkyourfatherandthekingagreedtomarryRolastotheprincess?Yourfatherlovedyouandwantedtoseeyouhappy.Afteryouhadmadeyourintentionsknownthatnight,Ihadtotakesteps.”

“Why,Mother?”Marcussaidsadly.“Whydidyoubetrayus?”“BecauseIshouldhavebeenQueen!”Shesnapped.Sheswayedslightly

andraisedahandtoherhead.“Ifithadnotbeenforyourfather’sinterestinme,Iwouldhavewontheking’sheart.Buthisfatherandtheking’sfatherputanendtothat.Itshouldhavebeenmeonthethrone,notstuckinthefarreaches,expectedtobenothingbutabroodsow.”

“ItwasshortlyafteryouwerebornthatIcommittedmyselftothedemons’cause.”Shecontinued,thoughhervoicebegantoslur.“IwastoldthatIwouldonedayrule,ifIdidwhatIwasinstructed.Atfirst,Iwasonlyaskedforinformationaboutthecourt.Then,Iwasgivenapotionandtoldtomakesure

BrotherJonasdrankit.Iwasabletoslipitintohisdrinkatapalacefunction,buthiswifedrankitinstead.Thatwaswhenshetookillanddied.”

“IwasmoresuccessfulwhenIwastoldtoeliminatethequeen.”Shesaid,lookingatKeria.“Itwasonesmallsteponthepathtoruling,mydear.Yourmotherwassimplyanobstaclethathadtoberemoved.”

ShetookanotherdrinkofherwineandturnedbacktoMarcus.“Iwasforbiddentokillyourfather,though.Mymastersthoughtthatitwouldbetoosuspiciousifheweretodie,andthenImarriedtheking.Iwasstuckwithmylotuntilrecently.”

“Thedemonsdecideditwastimetochangethedirectionoftherealm;Sanduasanditsclericshadthwartedthemlongenough.IwastogetRolasmarriedtotheprincess,andthenwecouldeliminatethekingandKeria,leavingthekingdominourhands.”Sheshookherhead.“Ofcourse,itwaslikelythatIwouldhavetoeliminateRolasaswell.Hewasjusttoounstable.”

“Youhavecondemnedyourself,Mother.”Marcussaidharshly.“Youwillnotescapetheheadman’sax.”

“Youarewrongaboutthat,myson.”Areliasaid,anothersmilecrossingherface.“Ihavefailedinmytask.Ihavenointentionofbeingherewhenthedemoncomesforme.”

“Iwillnotallowyoutoleave,Mother.”Marcusstatedcoldly.“Idon’tneedyouforthat,Marcus.”Hismothersaid,liftinghercup.“There

wasenoughpotionleftformetoescape.”Sheshuddered,thecupfallingfromherhand.Herheadslumpedforward.“Escapefromallofyou.”Shewhisperedandwentlimp.

Marcusstoodandsimplystaredather,hismindnumb,stunnedanddisbelieving.Keriacameuptohim,wrappingherarmsaroundhim.“Weneedtogo,Marcus.”Shesaidgently.“Thereisnothingyoucando.”

Blinkingawaysuddentears,henoddedandstraightenedhisshoulders.TheylefttheapartmentstofindDaenkneelingdownandwrappingpartofhisshirtaroundNathen’sarm,whowassittingandleaningagainstthewall.Amakeshiftbandagewasalreadyaroundhishead.

MarcuslookeddownthehallandsawJustianlyingonthefloor,apoolofbloodaroundhim.AshereacheddowntohelpNathenup,thesoundofapproachingmenechoeddownthehall.HepulledNathentohisfeetandsteppedforwardtomeetthisthreat.

Severaltensemomentspassed,thenherelaxedwhenCommanderHelgrantappeared,leadingagroupofRoyalGuardsmen.Theywereallbloodied,but

whole.HelgrantsawKeriabehindMarcus,reliefcrossinghisface.Hestepped

forwardandknelt.“YourMajesty,wehavesecuredthepalace.TheremainingmenofMarcelas’forcehavefled.”

Marcusstartedatthetitleused.Keriasteppedforward,eyeswideandsuddenlyfulloftears.“Whatareyousaying,Commander?”Shesaidbrokenly.

“Wefoundyourfatherinhisquarters,myQueen,butthekingwasalreadydead.”Helgrantsaidsympathetically.

Keriastoodthere,swayingslightly.“Thankyou,Commander.”Shesaid,voicethickwithemotion.“Sendrunnerstothearmygarrison.Tellthemthatthesoldiersaretodeployaroundthecity.AnyofLordMarcelas’menfoundaretobecapturedorkilled.Also,sendsoldiersandclericstosecurethedungeons.”

“Therearesomeclericswaitinginthesewers,myQueen.”Daensaid,kneeling.“Withyourpermission,NathenandIwillgofindthemandleadthemtothedungeons.Wealsohavetofreeacoupleofservantsthatwelefttiedup.”

AtKeria’snod,Marcus’friendsrandownthehall.HelgrantsentoneofhissoldierstorelayKeria’sorder,thenorderedtherestdownthehallwaystomakesuretheareawassecured.HelookedatKeria’sface,sympathyinhiseyes,thenmoveddownthehallashortway,leavingMarcusandKeriaalone.BeforeMarcuscouldsayanything,sheturnedandthrewherselfintohisarms,weeping.

…Withthesmellofthesewersfadingslightly,NorlanfollowedJonasasthey

madetheirwayupthecrumblingstonestairs,Maxisathissideandhismaulgrippedtightlyinhishand.TheyhadworkedtheirwaythroughthesewersandfoundthestonesthatindicatedNathen’sfall.Theyquietlyexploredtheareauntiltheydiscoveredthesestairsleadinguptowardsthedungeons.

Theyreachedthetopofthestairsandfoundarustingmetaldoorbarringtheirway.NorlanslippedpastJonasandtriedtoliftthelatchashepulledonthedoor,butitwasrustedshut.MotioningJonastostepback,Norlanjammedoneofthespikesonhismaulintothelatchand,usingthemaulasalever,pulledwithallofhisstrength.Withaloudsquealofgrindingmetal,thelatchgaveway.Hejammedthespikebetweenthedooranditsframeandpulledagain.Afterafewsecondsofeffort,therustedhingesgavewayandthedoorcreakedopen.Norlanpulleditopen,thensteppedthrough,maulattheready.

Maxisslidpasthim,movingahead.Jonaspattedhimontheshoulder,indicatingtocontinue.Theyslowlymadetheirwaydownthestonehallway,Jonas’shiningformthefirstlightthesewalls,coveredinaslickgreenishmoss,

hadseenindecades.Theycametoasharpturninthehall,whichledtoanotherdoor,madeofheavywood.

Maxisstoppedagainstthedoor,sniffingaroundthebottom.Hestiffened,hishacklesrisingandalowgrowlrumblinginhischest.NorlanreachedoutandpulledthedogbackfromthedoorwhileJonasreleasedhispower,thehallwaygoingdark.Norlancarefullyliftedthelatch,winchingatthesuddenclickitmade,thenslowlypulledthedooropen.

Heglancedoutandsawthathewasunderwhatlookedlikestairs.Hecouldhearthesoundofmentalkingnearby.Movingcautiouslyandquietly,hewasabletogoforwardenoughtoglimpsearoundthestairs.Hesawtwomen,dressedinarmorwithMarcus’familycrestontheirchests,standingnearanotherwoodendoor,acoupleoftorchesburningnearby.

HeslidbackandtoldJonaswhathesaw.Jonasrubbedhisbeard,thinking.“ThissoundslikethesameplacethatSilvanandNathenencounteredthedemon.”Hewhisperedfinally.“Weneedtogetpastthesemen.”

Norlannodded,movingforward.Hetookacoupleofdeepbreaths,thenchargedout,bringinghismaulup.Themenwerestartledbyhissuddenappearance,frozenforasecond,andthenreachedfortheirweapons.Norlanclosedthegapandswunghishammerbeforetheycouldreact.Thespikepiercedtheclosestman’sarmor,takinghiminthechest.Theothermanbackedawayanddrewhissword,andthenstartedforward.Norlanyankedhismaulfreeandblockedtheman’sfirstblow.Themanattackedagain,thistimehisswordslippedpastNorlan’sattempttoblockit;fortunately,thebladeslidharmlesslyoffNorlan’sarmor.

BeforeNorlancouldstrike,inabluroffur,Maxisattackedtheman,drivinghimtothefloor.Maxissavagedtheman’sthroat,andthenbackedaway,growling.Themanconvulsedandwentstill.

Jonasjoinedthemandknelt,searchingthemen,butcouldnotfindakeyforthedoor.Nervouslyglancingupthestairs,Norlanwentovertothedoorandusedhismaultopryitopen.Thesoundasthedoorgavewayseemedtoreverberatethoughthedungeons.

“Waithere,Norlan.”Jonassaidashebroughtuphispower,goldenlightradiatingbrightly.Hesteppedthroughthedoorandturnedhishead.“IfIamnotbackshortly,youaretofleethewaywecame.Donotcomeinhere,nomatterwhatyouhearorsee.”JonaswaiteduntilNorlannoddedandstrodeintothecorridorbeyond.

Norlandraggedthemen’sbodiesawayfromthestairs,andthentookupa

positionatthebase.Hecouldhearfaintsoundscomingfromabovethem.Hegrippedhismaultighter,preparedtodefendJonasforaslongasittook.Maxiscameupnexttohim,hisbodypressingagainsthisleg.Norlanreacheddowntopatthedogandwaited.

…Jonasmadehiswaydownthecorridor,hisformdrivingbacktheshadows.

Hemovedcautiously,eyesshiftingfromsidetoside,tryingtodetectanymovement.Heapproachedthedoorattheendofthecorridor,whichwasstandingopen.Sayingaquickprayer,hemovedintotheroombeyond.

Nearthefarwall,hesawtheopeninginthefloorthatNathenhadmade.Pullinginmorepower,hesteppedtowardsthecenteroftheroom,facingthedarkenedareainthefarcorner,andstopped.

“So,youhavefinallycome,cleric.”Avoicesoundedfromthedarkenedhallway.ThedemonsteppedoutofthehallwayintoJonas’light.ThedemonwasalittletallerthanJonas,thoughitsbodywaspowerfullybuilt.Itsfacewashuman-like,handsomewithdarkhair,buttheeyeswerepitsofdarkness.It’sfingers,thoughhuman-like,endedinshortblackclaws.Asmilecrosseditsface,revelingnormallookingteeth,exceptfortwinsetsofincisors,longandsharp.“Iwaslosingfaithinmyfollowersthattheycouldbringyouhere.”

“Whatdoyouseek,demon?”Jonasasked,plantinghisstaff.“IamaservantoftheOne,soyouhavenothingIwant.”

Thedemonlaughed,thesoundchilling.“Why,Iwantyourlife,ofcourse.Iwassenttoseeifthestoriesweretrueaboutyourpower,totestitformyself.”

“Youmayfindthattobeafatalerror,demon.”Jonasstatedresolutely.“Bravelysaid,mortal,butfoolish.”Thedemontaunted.“IamHelvan.You

mayhaveheardofme.”Jonasstiffened,recallingthenamefromtheGuardian’stale.Thiswasone

ofthemostpowerfuldemonsthatcametothisworld.Despitethatfact,Jonasknewthathehadnochoicebuttofight.

“Howevermuchyouthinkofyourself,demon,yourpowerisnothingcomparedtothemightoftheOne.”Jonassaid,gatheringhisstrength.Hisbodyshonebrightlyashefelthispowersurge,thenreleaseditinenormousboltofclerics’fire.

Thedemonlaughedasitmoved,itspowerdeflectingJonas’attack.Itcountered,darkfirestreakingforJonas.Heblockedit,butwasstaggeredbythepower.Heattackedagain,thistimehisfirecatchingthedemon,hittingitsquarely.Thedemontookacoupleofstepsback,itsformsteaming.

“Youdohavesomemight,cleric,butitwilldoyounogoodintheend.”Helvansaid,movingandattacking.

Thechambershookfromtheexplosionsofpowerfulmagic,thesoundsechoingloudly,thelightblinding,asthetwofought.Jonastriedtopullinmorepowerasheandthedemoncircledeachother.Hedeflectedthedemon’sattacksashecould,butthedemon’sfirewaspenetratinghisprotectionsandburninghisskin.Hisownattackswerehavingsomeeffect,butnotenoughtoovercomethedemon.

AsJonasdeflectedanattackandwasknockedslightlyoffbalance,thedemoncharged,closingthedistancebetweenthem.BeforeJonascouldreact,thedemonseizedhimbyhisshoulders,itsclawspiercinghisbodywhileitspowerburnedhisflesh.Jonasletoutacryasagonyblossomedfromthedemon’sgripandhetastedblood.

“See,mortal,yourvauntedpowermeansnaughtintheend.”Thedemonsaid,asmileonitslips,asitbegantopull,tryingtoripJonasinhalf.

Jonasscreamedfromthepain.Hedesperatelyfocusedhismagicattheendofhisstaffand,withhisremainingstrength,droveitupintothedemon’schin.Thedemon’spowerresistedforamoment,butthen,withasearinglightandmassivenoise,themagicsexploded,blastingJonasfreefromitsgrip.

Jonasstaggeredbacktohisfeet,hismouthfullofblood,feelingmorebloodrunningdownhisbodyfromthewoundsthedemoninflicted.Justholdinghispowerwouldslowthedamage,buthecouldnothealhimself.

Helookedforhisenemy.Thedemonwaswrithingontheground,itslowerjawgoneanddarkbloodflowingfromthewound.Jonaslaunchedanotherblastatit,butitsdarkpowerabsorbedtheattack.Jonassawthatitwastryingtorise.Knowinghisbestchancewastokeepitdown,helurchedoverandthrewhimselfontopofthedemon.

Hedrovehisstaffacrossthedemon’sthroat,puttingallofhisweightagainstitashestrovetoovercomeitspower.Thedemonthrashedbeneathhim,andthenitsclawsfoundhimagain,drivingintohischest.Jonascriedoutagainastheclawsworkedtheirwaydeeper.Retaininghispowerbyathread,hetriedtofinishthedemon,hisstaffshiningbrightlyasheattemptedtodrivehismagicpastitspower,butitwasstilltoostrong.Thedemonbegantopushhimoff.

Despairing,hisstrengthweakening,hecriedoutinhismind.Helpme!Suddenly,hefeltanewstrengthsurgethoughhim,hisstaffblazedbrightly,

thegoldenlightturningwhite.Thedemonletoutagurgledscreamfromitsruinedmouthasthenewpowerburnedintoit.Withabrilliantflare,thepower

torethroughthedemon.Itexplodedintoash,theblastflingingJonasaway.Heslammedintothenearbywall,losinghisgriponhisstaff,andfellforward.

Hisearsringingandvisionblurry,hetriedtorise,butcouldnot.Hefelthiswoundspulsingblood.Heneededhismighttoslowthedamage.Hismindfoggywithpain,hetriedbutcouldnotcalluphispower.Hecouldjustmakeouthisstafflyingonthefloorclosetohim.Maybewiththestaff.Hethoughtweaklyashebegantocrawlforward.Heonlymadeitafewincheswhenhisstrengthgaveoutandhecollapsedtothefloor,hislifebloodpoolingaroundhim.

…Jonasdriftedinapeacefuldarkness,hispainforgotten.Heremembered

everythingthathadhappened,thoughitseemedtocomefromagreatdistance.Ashedrifted,hefeltcontentmentintheknowledgethathehaddefeatedthedemon.

Heknewinstinctivelythathewasdying.Thethoughtdidnottroublehim,asheknewthathewasgoingtoseehisbelovedMarlisagain.

Outofthedarknessinwhichhedrifted,alightappeared.Inthatlight,afigurestood.Jonashearditcallouttohim.

“Youhavebeenagoodandfaithfulservant,mychild.”Thefiguresaid,itsvoicewashingoverhimwithwarmthandlove.“KnowthatIampleasedwithyou,butyourtimeisnotyetdone.”

Suddenly,Jonasfelthimselfbackinhisbody,hisawarenessreturningaswellasthepainofhisinjuries.Hefelthisbodyshift,turnoverontohisback,onlytoriseoffoftheground.Hisstaffwasonhischestandhefeltmovement.

“Holdon,Jonas.”HeheardNorlan’svoicesaytohim.“Staywithus.Ihaveyou.”

CHAPTERTWENTY-ONE

Withtherisingsunchasingawaythechillofthemorning,DominicandhispartybrokecampandrodetowardsParshalthia.Thedaybefore,theyhadfoundasmallhillwithaseriesofjaggedrocksatitspeakthatprovidedcoverandconcealmentwhileenablingthemtoobserveanyapproachingthreat.Despitethoseprotections,theyhadkeptastrongwatch,buttherehadbeennofurthercontactwiththedemonsortheirfollowers.

DominichadMoshannataketheleadtoday,knowingthathewasthebestsuitedtoguidethem,givenhishistory.Moshanna,hisdarkfaceseriousashewatchedthesurroundingland,wasridingafewfeetahead.Hedirectedthembacktothetradingroute,turningsouthagain.Theycontinuedforalmostanhourwhentheycameuponanancientroad,theoutlineofthebatteredandweatheredpavingstonesjustvisiblebeneaththethinlayerofreddirtthatcoveredthem.Theroadledintothehillsontheleft,windingitswayeast.

“ThisisthewaytoParshalthia.”Moshannaannouncedtothegroup.“Ihavebeentoldthattheroadleadsdirectlytotheruins.Wemuststayalert;fewhaveeverreturnedfromthoseruins.”Helookedoveratthesoldiers,gesturingtowardstheclerics.“Rememberthattheclericsmustbeprotectedatallcosts.Iftheruinsarecontrolledbythedemons,theywillbeouronlydefense.Theywillrideinthemiddleoftheformation,surroundedbytherestofus.”

HestudiedStonebuilderonthewaterwagon,andthenshookhishead.“Wewillleavethewaterwagonbehind.Speedwillbeourallyinthis.Ifweneedtoretreatquickly,thewagonwillslowusdown.”

“Weneedthewater,Moshanna.”Welsenobjected.“Ifweareunabletorefillourskins,thenwecouldhavecasualtiesfromthirstortheheat.”

“Iunderstand,Brother;wewillpackextraskinswithus.”Moshannaresponded.“Theruinsareonlyabouthalfaday’sridefromhere.Betweenthewaterwecarryandhealing,ifnecessary,weshouldbeabletolastforatleasttwodays.”Hepaused,thinking.“Also,Iamcertainthat,ifwhatweseekisthere,wewillhavetofighttotakeit.ThewagonistheonlywaterwehavetomakeitbacktoFarSouthern.Ifweloseitincombat,thenwewilllikelynotmakeitback,evenifwearevictorious.”

“Iseeyourpoint,Moshanna.”Welsensaid,noddinghishead.“Forgivemyinterruption.”

Aftertheyhadfilledallofthewaterskins,Stonebuilderandtwosoldiers

movedthewagonbehindsomecover,hidingitaswellaspossibleandreturned.AfterMoshannawassatisfied,hegavethesignaltocontinueon.

Despiteitsage,theroadwasinsurprisinglygoodshape,allowingthemtotravelquickly.Itcutthroughtheharshterrain,lonelyandforbidding.Thehillsborderingtheroadbecameimpassable,therockslitteringthehillsidesrearinghigher,theirjaggededgesactingasbarriers.Thecanyonsbetweenthehillsweredeepandshadowy,thesoundoftheirpassingechoingdowntheirpaths,addingtothesenseofforeboding.

Theywereapproachingaturnintheroad,withalargecanyonopeningofftotheright,whenawoman’spitifulscreamsoundedfromthecanyon.Startled,theyhaltedatthesound,listening.Anothercryechoedoffthecanyonswalls,followingthefirst.

“Whatarewegoingtodo?”Taricasked,hisfacetightwithworry.“Weshouldhelpher.Shemaybehurtordying.”

“Wedonotknowwhatwewillfaceifweheaddownthatcanyon,Brother.”Stonebuilderstated.“Itcouldbeatrap,withthewomanasalure.”

TheothersoldiersandclericsturnedtoDominic,lookingforadecision.Hewasloathtoleaveanywomanindistress,buthehadtoweighthatagainsttheirmission.Heconsidereditforamomentanddecided.

“IwilltakeMoshannaandBrotherTarictoinvestigate.”Dominicsaid.“Wewillrideoutfortenminutes.Ifwedonotfindanythinginthattime,wewillreturn.Ifwedonotreturninthirtyminutes,continueon.Ifwecan,wewillcatchup;ifnot,thenwearealreadygone.”

“Ishouldcomewithyou.”Halanasaid,lookingoveratTaric.“Youmayneedanothercleric.”

Dominicshookhishead.“Themaingroupneedstheclerics’protectionmore.”Hegaveheraslightsmile.“Iwillkeephimassafeaspossible,Sister.”ShenoddedwhileTaricblushed.

“Let’sdothis,sowecancontinueon.”Dominicsaid,drawinghisswordandturningShadowtowardsthecanyon.MoshannaandTaricwererightbehindhimasherodeintotheshadowsofthecanyon.

Anotherscreamsounded,fainterthanthelast.DominicurgedShadowon,pickingupspeedwhilehesurveyedtheirpath.Thesoundoftheirhorsesechoedoffthenarrowcanyonwalls,whichtoweredabovethem,grayandredcoloredrocksjuttingoutfromthewalls,likethornsonavine.

Theblazingsunwashedoutthelandinfrontofthemforamomentastheycameoutofthecanyonafterafewminutesride.Thecanyonopenedupand

gavewaytoaseriesofrollinghills.Onthetopofanearbyhill,Dominicsawseveralpostsrisingoutoftheground,obviouslyman-made.Neartheclosestposts,hesawseveralmen,dressedinshorttunicsandleathersandals,theirchestscoveredwithwoodenarmor,paleincolor,eachholdingalongwoodenspear.Theyweretyingoffthecoarseropesthatboundawomantothepost,whenoneofthemennoticedDominicandhiscompanions.

“Wildmen.”Moshannastated.Dominicnodded,thenchargedShadowatthegroup.TwooftheWildmen

threwtheirspearsatDominicasherodeatthem.HemovedShadowslightly,dodgingthethrows,andthenhewasonthem.Heslashedtohisright,comingbackovertohisleft,theWildmenfallingasherodepast.WheelingShadow,hepreparedforanotherchargewhenhesawMoshanna,offhishorse,movingwiththegraceofadanceramongsttheremainingWildmen,hisswordspinning,themengoingdownaroundhim.BeforeDominiccouldreturntohim,Moshanna,hisswordablur,killedthelastWildman.

Dominicrodeovertothewoman,hanginglimplyfromherrestraints.Hedismountedandapproachedher.Gently,hereachedoutand,puttinghishandunderherchin,liftedherhead.

Shewasyoung,maybeinhertwenties,herbronzefacepretty,withshortdarkhair.Shewasslimlybuilt,wearingashortlinendressandleathersandals.Hewastakenabackbytheseriesofhighlydecorativetattoosthatwereonhercheeksandaroundhereyes.

Hereyeswereclosed,butopenedathistouch.Hereyes,fulloffear,wereastrikinggreencolor.Shestruggledagainsthisgrip;aseriesoflowmoansescapingherlipsasshestruggledtobreakfree.

“Easy,girl.”Dominicsaidgently,releasingherchin.“Wewillnothurtyou.Doyouunderstandme?”

ThewomanstoppedheruselessstrugglingandlookedupatDominic,eyesstillfearful.“Iunderstandyou,Northman.”

“Donottrytoflee;Ihavequestionsforyou.”Dominicsaidashedrewhisdagger.Thewoman’seyesgrewwideuntilDominicreachedbehindherandcutawayherbonds.Onceshewasreleased,shesanktotheground,shaking.

DominicmotionedforTarictocomeover.Tarickneltinfrontofthewoman,reachingouttotakeherheadinhishands.Sheflinched,pullingback.

“Heisacleric,girl.Hewillnotharmyou.”Dominicsaid.ThewomannoddedandallowedTarictotouchherandhealherinjuries.

Onceshewashealed,Dominicsquatteddowninfrontofher.“Howdidyou

cometobehere?Whatwerethosemendoing?”“Iwastobeasacrificetoappeasethehillgods,toallowforsafepassage.”

Shesaidsoftly,staringatherhands.“Hillgods?”Dominicasked.“Thegodsthatrulethisarea.”Shereplied.“Theycommanddarkfireand

stealmen’sspirits.”Demons.Dominicthought.“Whywereyouchosen?”“Womenareoftenchosen,Northman.”Sheresponded,shivering.“Itissaid

thatthegodsusethemasmendo.”Dominic’sfacetightened,hisfistsclenching.Hehadheardrumorsof

womenbeingtaken,butheassumeditwasforthehalf-men.HesawalookofshockonTaric’sface,hiseyesdisbelieving.

“Youarefreenow.”Dominicsaid,rising.“Youcangowhereyouwill.”“Wait,Northman.”Thewomansaid,risingaswell.“Iwishtogiveyou

somethingforyourhelp.”“Nothingisneeded,girl.”Dominicsaid.“Pleaseallowme.”Shesaid,holdingoutherhand.“MayIseeyourhand?”Confused,Dominicheldouthishand.Shetookitinhers,holdingitfirmly.

Suddenly,afaintgreenlightshonearoundher.Hereyesopenedwideandshegasped.Shereleasedhishandandtookastepback,herhandonherhead.

“Whatdidyoujustdo?”Dominicdemanded.“Isawaglimpseofyourfuture,Northman.”Thewomansaid.“ItisagiftI

have,toseethingsthatcometrue.Mypeoplethoughtthatitwasacurseofthegods;thatiswhyIwasbroughthere.”Shesighed.“MynameisKalisia.Itellyouthis,asIwillbetravelingwithyou.”

“Whydoyousaythat,girl?”Dominicasked,surprised.“Isawthat,withoutme,youwillfail,Northman.”Shesaid.Dominicsaw

fearinhereyes.“Youmustallowmetocome.”HelookedoveratMoshannaandTaric.Theclericnodded,whileMoshanna

shrugged.“Ifthereisanytruthinwhatshesays,thenitisbettertobringheralong.”Hesaid.

HeturnedbacktoKalisia.“MynameisDominic,girl.”Dominictoldher.“Weareheadingintodanger,butyoumaycomewithus.”

Shenodded,butdidnotlookparticularlyhappyaboutit.…

Aftertheyrejoinedtheothersandcontinuedontheirjourney,DominicglancedbacktoseeKalisia,sittingbehindHalanaonherhorse,beingquestioned

abouthergiftbytheclerics,allofthemridingcloseandseeminglytalkingatonce.Well,shewantedtocome.Hethought,bemused.

Hetroubledbyherpredicationrequiringherpresence.Shewastight-lippedaboutwhatshesaw.Shewouldonlyrepeatthatshewasneededforsuccess.Hedidnotlikehowshehadahauntedlookinhereyeswhenshesaidit.

Whatwillbe,willbe.Hetoldhimself,pushinghisconcernsaway.Heturnedforwardandfocusedonthesurroundingterrain,watchingformovement.Therockyoutcroppingsandjaggedbouldersmadeforexcellentambushpositions.

Theyrodeonfortherestofthemorningwithoutincident,thoughlightrocksthatsurroundedtheroadseemedtofocustheheat,makingitalmostunbearable.Thesimmeringoftheairastheheatrosefromthegroundbegantoobscuretheirviewahead,limitedthedistancetheycouldseeclearly.SotheyweretakenbysurprisewhentheycrestedthefinalriseandfoundthemselvesoverlookingtheruinsofParshalthia.

Theruinswerespreadoutinasmallvalleydirectlyahead,thelanddryandbarren,thehillsrearingovertheancientcity.Itwasnotalargecity,thoughitcontainedatleastonehundredbuildings.Thecitystreets,thoughdustcovered,wereplainlyvisible,preservedinthedryatmosphereofthedesert.Theredandgraystonebuildingsweremostlystanding,thoughsomeroofshadcollapsed.

Nearthecenterofthecitylayalargebuilding,tallwithgreatstonecolumnsvisibleinthefront.Itwaspartiallycollapsedintherearquarter,butmostlyintact.Thereappearedtobeasingleentrancebehindthecolumns.

“IfIwerelookingforaplacetodefendsomething,IthinkIwouldchoosethatbuilding.”MoshannasaidtoDominic.“Ithasstrongwallsandthereappearstobeonlyonewayin,sothatwouldnaturallyallowyoutoconcentrateyourmight.”

“Maybe,butthenagain,itmaybebettertohideitinoneoftheouterbuildings,somewhereyourenemycouldoverlook.”Dominicreplied.

“Sincewecannotriskdividingourforce,itmaybebestforustotakeamethodicalapproach.”Moshannasuggestedafterafewmoments.“Startatthebuildingsclosesttousandmovetowardsthecenter,clearingthemaswego.Itwilltakeusmoretime,butwecanmakesurewedon’tmissanything.”

Dominiclookeddowntowardsthecityagain.Helocatedabuildingatthenearestedgeofthecity,standingslightlyapart,attheendofadust-coveredstreet.Thereappearedtobewhatwasonceastablenexttothebuilding.Thestreetitselfranacrossthecity,withmorebuildingsspacedoutalongitspath

“Iagree.”Dominicsaid.“Weshouldbegin.Thedayisnotgoingtogetanycooler.”

AtDominic’ssignal,theyrodedowntothebuildingheselectedanddismounted.

“Wewillstartoursearchhere.”Dominictoldthegroup.“Wewillproceedonfoot,sowecanstaytogether,bebetterpreparedtofight,andsaveustimefromhavingtomountanddismount.”Hepointedtothenearbystable.“Wewillclearthestablefirstandleavethehorses.”

Theywentinside,theclericsglowinginpowerandinspectedthebuildingcarefully.Oncecleared,theybroughtthehorsesinside,givingthemsomewater.Theyleft,movingasquicklyaspossibletothenextbuilding.

AtDominic’snod,twoofStonebuilder’ssoldiers,handingtheirspearstotheothers,drewswords,thenenteredthebuildingthroughtheopendoorway,Welsenrightbehindthem.Afteratenseminuteorso,withtherestofthegroupanxiouslywaitingoutside,theyexited,shakingtheirheads.Dominicmotionedtothenextbuilding.

Theymaintainedthispatternastheymadetheirwaydeeperintothecity,alternatingtheentryteamateachbuilding.Thesunwasdirectlyoverhead,itslightbrilliantagainsttheearth,physicallydraininginitsheat.Theywererapidlydepletingtheirwatersupply,butcontinuedon.

TheyhadclearednearlyaquarterofthebuildingswhensuddenlyHalanastoppedthem.“Doyoufeelthat?”Sheaskedquietly,glancingattheotherclerics.Theclericsexchangedlookswitheachotherandnodded.

“Ifeellikethereissomethingcallingtome,faintlyandinthatdirection.”Welsensaid,pointingtowardsthelargebuildinginthecenterofthecity.“Idon’tknowwhatitis,butIthinkweneedtoabandonoursearchofthebuildingsandfindout.”Theotherclericsnodded,lookingtoDominic.

“Iagreewithyou,Brother.”Hesaidafterconsideringwhatwassaid.“Oursearchisnotbearinganyfruit,solet’sfollowyourfeelings.Wecanalwaysreturntothisbuildingandcontinue,ifneeded.”

Thegroupchangeddirectionandheadedtowardsthecenterbuilding.Whiletheclericssaidthatthefeelingwasgrowingstronger,Dominicwasmoreconcernedaboutwhatwouldbeahead,possiblyguardingwhateverwasattractingtheclerics.

KalisiamovedupnexttoDominic.Helookedathercuriously.“Weapproachtheplacewhereyouwillneedme.”Shesaid,eyesroamingfrombuildingtobuilding.

Thestreetsuddenlywidenedintoalargeplazasurroundingthebuildingthattheysought.Theyhaltedandlookedaround,seekinganyhintofmovement,butsawnothing.Acrosstheplaza,thebuildingtallbuildingrearedabovethem.Therewasanopeningatthefront,upasetofstonestairsandbetweenthecentercolumns,thedoorslongsincegone,theroombehindcloakedinshadow.

AtDominic’ssignal,thegroupstartedacrosstheplaza,movingrapidly,focusedontheirtarget.Theywerealmosttothebaseofthestepswhenaboltofdemonfirestreakedinfromasidestreet,catchingthemoffguardandslammedintooneofthesoldiers,encasinghiminitsdarkpower.Hescreamedonceandcollapsedintoasmolderingheapbeforetheclericscouldevenreact.

“Moveinside!”Dominicyelled,asmoredarkmagicbegantoraindownonthem.Dominicsawdemonsmovingbetweenbuildings,alongwiththeirhumanfollowers.Theclericswerehardpressedtodeflectallofthedemons’fire,theirmightslashingandflaringintothesky.

Astheymadeittotheopening,theclericssenttheirfirethroughtheopeningtoclearit.Dominicleapedthroughtheopening,hisswordready,buttheroombeyondwasempty.

Thepartymovedtoeithersideoftheopening,theclericsnexttothedoorwaytocounteranydemons.Dominicglancedquicklyoutsideandsawthedemonssurroundingtheoutsideplaza.Theyweretrappedinside.

“Wecanholdthemoffforawhile.”Dominicsaid.“Thereisonlyonewaytheycanenter,sotheclericscanconcentratetheirpower.However,wehavelimitedwaterandfood.Eventually,wewillneedtofightourwayclear,unlessthereisanotherwayout.”

“Iwillsearchtherestofthebuilding.”Dominiccontinued.“Itappearstobeempty,butweneedtobesurethereisnootherwayinorout.”HehelduphishandwhenMoshannabegantoobject.“Yourmasterhasgivenmeagift.”Hesaid,tappinghissword.“IknowhowtofightthemandnowhavesomeprotectionifIencounterone.Weknowoftheonesoutside;weneedtokeepourforceshere.”Moshannafrowned,butnoddedhishead.

“Youareincommandhere,Moshanna.”Dominictoldthepartyashebegantomoveoff.“IwillreturnasquicklyasIcan.”

Ashestartedtowardstherearoftheroom,Kalisiajoinedhim.“Imuststaywithyou,Dominic.”Shesaid,soundingfrightened.“ItiswhatIsaw.”

Henodded.“Staybehindme,then.”Theyfoundadooragainstthebackwall,hangingcrookedlyfromabroken

hinge.Dominicpusheditoutoftheway,theremainingmetalhingesquealingin

protest,thesoundechoingthroughouttheroom.Whenitwaslargeenoughtopass,heduckedthrough,andthenhelditforKalisia.

Therewasenoughlightstreaminginfromcracksandothersmallopeningsalongtheroofthathecouldmakeoutwheretheyweregoing.Theywereinawidehallwaythatledtoanothersetofdoorsattheend,withseveralopeningsalongtheway.Theairturnedcoolerastheyheadeddeeperintothebuilding,grantingsomerelieffromtheoverbearingheat.

Dominiccheckedeachopeningastheywent,enteringthedimlylitrooms,butonlyfindingpiecesofbrokenfurniturecoveredindustandfadedpaintonthewalls.Finally,theyreachedthedoorattheendofthehall.

Dominicreachedoverandliftedthehandleonthelatch.Ittookamomentbeforethelatchbrokefree,frozenbythelongyears.Heleanedagainstthedoorandpushed.Ittooksomeeffort,buthewasableopenitabouthalfwaybeforeitstuck.

Slippingthroughthedoor,hesawthattheywereinalargehall,faintlightcominginplaceswherethetumbleofstoneinthebackcorneropenedtothesky.Nearthecenterofthehall,hesawwhatwasonceanornatetable,standingbyitself,nochairsaroundit.Hiseyeswidenedslightlywhenhesawthatitshonefaintlywithlight,separatefromthelightcomingin.Hecautiouslyapproachedthetableandreachedouttotouchit.Hefeltatinglingwarmthspreadacrosshishandashetouchedit.Heknewinstinctivelythattheswordhadoncebeenthere.Theonlyquestionnowwasifitwasstillinthecity.

HestartedtoturntowardsKalisiawhenhefeltthefamiliarchillofthepresenceofademon.Hequicklyreachedoutandpulledherclose,keepingherbehindhimasheslowlycircled,scanningtheroom.Hedetectedmovementbacknearthecollapsedcornerandspuntofaceit,swordready.

“Itisnothere,foolishmortal.”Adeep,inhumanvoiceechoedacrosstheroom.Dominicwatchedasthedemonappeared.Hehadneverseenonelikethisone.Itwashuman-like,withreddishskinandapairofblackhornsonitshead.“Icongratulateyouforfindingthisplace.Ihavenotseenamortalgetthisfar.Mybrothersoutsideusuallydealwithsuchinterlopers.”

Dominicturnedslightly,keepinghiseyesonthedemon,speakingquietlyoverhisshoulder.“WhenIattack,Iwantyoutorunbacktotheotherstowarnthem.”HetoldKalisia.“Iwillkeepthedemonoffyouwhileyouflee.”Withoutwaitingforherreply,heleaptoverthetableandsprintedtowardsthedemon.“Go!”Hecalledout.

ThedemonwastakenabackbyDominic’ssuddencharge,butrecovered,

launchingaboltofdemonfireasitmovedtowardshim.ItstoppedagainwhenDominic’sswordflared,thegolden-whitelightthrowingbacktheshadowsasitbrokeapartthedemon’sattack.

Dominiccontinuedtoadvance,evenashecaughtsight,inthatflashoflight,ofatwinofthedemonhefaced,movingtoflankhim.Heclosedwiththedemoninfrontofhim,hisswordshatteringthedemon’sattacks.

ThedemonleapedbackasDominicswunghissword,thetipbarelymissing.Hesensedtheotherdemoncomingfrombehind,hearingtheclawsonitsfeetrattlingagainstthestonefloorasitrantowardshim.Hespunandducked,thenbroughttheswordup.Thedemon,surroundedinitsdarkpower,twistedinitsleapwhenitsawtheswordinitspath.Dominiccompensatedforthemove,standingandswingingthesword.Thedemonscreamedastheblade,aflamewithlight,slicedacrossitsstomach,leavingadeepcutstreamingdarkblood.Ittumbledtothefloor,writhinginpain.

Itstwinsurgedforward,firingblastsofdemonfireatDominicasittriedtoclosethegap.Theswordflaredagain,butDominicnoticedthatthelightdidnotshineasbrilliantlywitheachattackitdefeated.Hegrimlyrealizedthatthepoweroftheswordwasfading.

Tryingtotakeadvantageofwhateverpowerremained,hemoved,slidingsidewaysatthelastpossiblemoment,asthedemoncharged,clawsextended.Hewasabletosliceacrossitsribsasheavoidedtheclaws.Thedemoncriedoutastheswordbitintoitsflesh,stumblingaway.

Dominicdidnotwait,butrantowardsthedemononthefloor,stabbingdownwardswhenhewascloseenough.Theswordslidintothedemon,blazingagain.Thedemonscreamedagainasthelightburnedintoit.Dominichelditthere,evenashewatchedtheotherdemonturnbacktowardshim.Suddenly,thedemonexplodedintoash,knockingDominicoffhisfeet.

BeforeDominiccouldrise,hisearsringingfromtheblast,theotherdemonwasonhim.Itslashedathischest,itsclawsrakingacrosshisbreastplate,butthemetalresistedtheblow.Dominicswungthesword,clippingthedemononitslowerleg.Thedemoncursedandleaptback,sendingawaveofdarkfireatDominic.

Theswordflaredagain,butthistimethemagicdidnotcompletelyprotecthim.Hefeltthedemon’spowerburnhim,hisskinblisteringwhereittouched.Ignoringthepain,heclosedwithit,stabbingandfindingamark,thebladepenetratingitsside.

Bellowing,thedemonswungitsarm,catchingDominiconhisbreastplate

andknockinghimbacktowardsthetable,rollingacrossthefloor.Ashetriedtohalthismomentum,theswordwasdislodgedfromhishand.Hestoppedandthrewhimselfbacktowardsthesword,knowingitwastoolateashesawthedemon,clutchingitswounds,bringitsotherarmup,itsdarkpowerconcentratingonitshand.

Suddenly,aboltofweakgreenfirestruckthedemon.EvenasDominicreachedthesword,Kalisiaranpast,herbodyglowingwithherpower.

“No,girl!”Dominicshoutedassheranstraightatthedemon,whichwasbringingitsarmup.Dominicgottohisfeetandmoved,butcouldnotsaveher.Thedemon’spowerstruckher,theopposingpowerscracklingastheymet,sendingherflyingback,herhigh-pitchedscreamsoundingasherbodyburned.

Beforethedemoncouldreact,Dominicwasonit,theswordslashing.Thedemoncriedoutagainastheswordcutacrossitsbelly,tryingtomoveawayandgaindistance.Dominicstayedwithit,drivingthesworddeepintoitschest,hisfaceamaskofrage.Theswordshoneweakly,butDominicdidnotrelayonitspower.Hepushedandpulledatit,cuttingintothedemon.Thedemon’spowerflared,burningDominic,buthedidnotrelent.Hetwistedtheswordandthenyankeditout.Asthedemonfellback,heswungitwithallofhisstrength.Thebladeslashedacrossthedemon’sneck.Thedemoncollapsed,itsheadrollingawayfromitsbody.

Dominicstaggeredback,thepainfromtheburnsintense,butignoreditashemovedtoKalisia.Droppingnexttoher,hegentlycradledherhead,herskincoveredinburns.Shewasabletoopenhereyes.

“Whatwasthatfoolishness,girl?”Dominicsaidgently.“Itoldyoutorun.”“Icouldnot.”Shesaidweakly.“ItoldyouthatIhadtocomewithyoufor

youtohavesuccess.”“Theswordisnothere.”Hesaidsoftly.“ThatisnotwhatImeant.”Shesaid,voicefading.“Whenyoufreedme,I

sawmyend.Inthatdeath,IknewthatIwouldsaveyou.Iglimpsedthatyouhaveimportantthingsstilltodo,actionsthatmaymeantheendofthedemons.Isawthatyourlifewasmoreimportantthanmine.”

“Ihavesurvivedmanythings,girl.”Dominicsaid.“Youmayhavebeenwrong.”

“IamneverwrongaboutwhatIsee,Northman.”Shegasped,thenherbodyrelaxed,slippingintodeath.

Dominicgentlypickedherupandcarriedhertothetable.Heplacedheronit,feelingitwasasfittingarestingplaceashewouldfind.Asheturnedto

leave,hesawthetable’sglowsuddenlyincrease,fillingtheroominsoftwhitelight.ItsurroundedKalisia’sbody,theburnsfadingawayasDominicwatchedincredulously.Sheremainedstill,herlifegone,butthelightstayedinplace.Dominicknewsuddenlythatitwouldprotectherfromanydespoilingbythedemons.

Inthatlight,hesawwhatlookedlikeadoorwayagainstthefarcorner.Heslowlywalkedoverandfoundacloseddoor.Aftersomestruggle,hewasabletoopenit.Hesawasetofstairsthatextendeddownintoatunnel.Hefollowedthetunnel,listeningformovement.Hecametoanothersetofstairs.Cautiously,heclimbedthemandopenedthedooratthetop.

Hefoundhimselfinasmallbuilding,emptyexceptforashatteredchairinthecorner.Movingtothedoorwaythatledoutside,hefelttheheatofthedaydriftingin.Glancingout,hesawthatthebuildingwasinasetofstructuresablockorsoawayfromthelargebuilding.Thestreetsweredeserted,buthecouldhearthedemonssurroundingthecenterbuildinginthedistance.

Dominicmadehiswaybackdownthetunnelandreturnedtotheothers,grimacingashewent,hisinjuriesmakingwalkingpainful.AshesatdowntoallowHalanatohealhim,hetoldtheotherswhathappened.Whenhewashealed,hestood.

“Havethedemonstriedtogetin?”HeaskedMoshanna.“No.”Hereplied.“Theyhavenotmoved,simplystandingoutthere

watching.”“Thedemonsareprobablywaitinguntilnightbeforetheyattack.”Hetold

theothers.Asuddensmilecreasedhisface.“Let’sletthemfindanemptybuildingfortheirtrouble.Followme.”Heturnedandledthemawaytosafety.

CHAPTERTWENTY-TWO

ThecoldraincontinuedtofallasJakeandHailynrodethroughthetreesoftheforest,darkeninghismood.Theweatherhadturnedonthemastheyclimbedintothehills,butJakehadhopedthatthetreeswouldgivesomerelief.Tohisconsternation,allthetreesseemedtobedoingwasgatheringthedropsofrainandmakinglargerdropsthatlandedonhishoodwithsomeforce.Heshiveredasthecoldairseemedtoseepintoeverycornerofhisbody.Evenwithhisgloves,hishandsfeltfrozen.Withhishandontheropesomewhatnumb,heglancedbacktomakesurethepackhorsewasstillbehindhim.

TheyhadleftTurlic’stwodaysbefore,headinginanortheasterlydirection.TheywerefollowingHailyn’sinterpretationsofwherethebraceletwantedthemtogo.Sofar,allithasdoneisleadusintothismiserablerain.Jakethought,irritated.WecouldbebackatTurlic’s,enjoyingawarmmeal.

ThinkingofTurlicremindedhimofthedayoftheislandfight.Thelastthingherememberedwasstumblingontothebeach.Hehaddriftedindarknessforatime,andthenwokeuponTurlic’sboatasitnearedthedock,thesunstillshiningabovethem.HewokefacingHailyn,whowassleepingnexttohim.HeandHailynhadstayedatTurlic’shomethatnight,bothexhaustedfromthebattle.Whentheypreparedtoleavethenextmorning,theytoldTurlicandRalienthattheywouldbeheadingtowardsthenortheast.

“Youwillneedmoreclothingthanyouseemtobecarrying,Jake.”Turlicsaid.“Thecountryinthatdirectioniscomprisedofhillsandforests,withchangeableweather.Atthistimeofyear,thetemperaturecanfallbeforeyouknowitoryoucangetcaughtinsnowstormsinthehills.”

“Well,thatisthedirectionwehavetogo.”Jakesaid.“WedohavetheheavycloaksthatBrotherKalgaveus.”

“Thecloaksmaybeadequate,butyouneedglovesandthickblanketsifyouwanttosurviveasnowstorm.”Turlicinsisted.

“Isthereamarketnearbythatwecanfindthesethings,Turlic?”Hailynasked.

“Ifyouwilldelayyourdepartureforaday,Icanretrievewhatyouneed.”Turlicstated.“Takeyourrestherefortheday.Iwillsailtoamerchantandbebackbeforedark.”

SotheyhadstayedatTurlic’sforanotherday,resting.Besideseatingandnapping,Jakehadgoneouttothebarntocheckonthehorses,andthenstrolled

aroundthearea,whileHailynstayedbehindandchattedwithRalienandMilyn.Justasduskwasapproaching,Turlicreturnedwiththeextrasupplies.

Earlythenextmorning,afteralargebreakfast,theypackedtheirsuppliesandsaddledtheirhorses.Beforetheycouldleave,Turliccameoutofthebarnwithanotherhorse,thisonewithacoupleoflargepackshangingfromitssides.HehandedtheguideropetoJake.

“Takethehorsewithyou.”Turlicsaid.“Thereareextrablankets,ropeandfoodinthepacks.Youcanfindwaterasyoutravel,buttherearenotmanytradingpostsinthatdirection.”

“Wecannottakethat,Turlic.”Hailynsaid.“Youandyourfamilyneedthehorsemorethanwedo.”

“Iwillnottakenoforananswer,Sister.”Turlicsaid,steppingback.“Youhavegivenusamiraculousgift;thehorseissimplyasmalltokenofourthanks.Icanalwaysbuyanother.”

Seeingthathewassetonhisintention,Jakenoddedtohim.“Thankyou,Turlic.Weappreciatethegift.”

Withsomefinalfarewells,heandHailynhadriddenaway.Theymadegoodtimethefirstday.Theweatherhadbeenmildandpleasant,withthelightwindpushingthefluffycloudsacrossthesun,theirshadowsdriftingacrossthelakeandtheland.Theyhadleftthelakebehindandwereenteringthehillswhendarknessfell.

Todaywasdifferent.Theywoketoacoldwindblowingandasolidlayerofgreycloudsblockingthesun.Shortlyaftertheystartedheadingintothehills,therainbegantofall.Thecloakskeptmostofthemoistureaway,thoughitdidnotcovertheirlegsverywell.Jakecouldfeelthewatersoakinghispants,withsomerunningintohisboots,despitehisbesteffortstokeepthemdry.Thedampnessaddedtothechillhefelt.

Hailyndroppedbacknexttohim.“Howareyoudoing?”Sheasked.“BesidesbeingsoakedtotheboneandfeelinglikeIamcoveredinice,just

swell.”Hesaidgrumpily.“Don’ttakeoutyourfrustrationonme.”Hailynsaidsharply.“Iamriding

inthesamecoldrainasyou.”Jakeinitiallygrittedhisteethathertone,butrelaxedafterafewmomentsas

herealizedthatshewasright.“I’msorry.Ijusthatebeingcoldandwet.”Hesaidcontritely.

Placingahandonhisarm,shelaughedasoftlaughandsaidgently.“Idon’tlikebeingcoldandwet,either.”

Herformshonebrightlyasshecalledupherpower.Shepulledoffhergloveandplacedherhandonhischeek.Besidesherwarmandsoftskin,hefelttheheatofhermagicdescendintohisbodyandbreakaparttheicygripofthewindandrain.Shehelditthereforafewmoments,andthenwithdrewherhand,replacingtheglove.

“Thanks,Hailyn.”Hesaidgratefully.“Ifeelbetternow.”Smiling,shereplied.“Youonlyhavetoaskifyouneedmetodoitagain.”Continuingon,theyheadeddeeperintothehills,navigatingthroughthemud

andmuck.Asthelightbegantofade,therainfinallyletup.Thoughthecoldwindwascontinuingtoblow,thelackofrainwasarelief.Lookingforaplacetocamp,theyfoundanareaunderagroupoftreegrowingclosetogetherthatlookedlikeitwasmostlyshelteredfromtherain.Thegroundwasdamp,butnotsoaked.

Aftertyingoffthehorsesandlayingdownoneofthethickblankets,JakeandHailynsatandateacoldmealofrations,sincetherewasnodrywoodavailableforafire.Theyweresittingthere,talkingquietly,asdarknessdescendedovertheforest.Afterawhile,Hailynstoodupandwentovertoherpack.

“Weneedtochangeoutofthesewetclothes.”Shesaidasshepulledoutsomedryclothes.“Ithinkweshouldstringtheropeandhangtheclothestodryasmuchaspossiblebeforewerepackthem.”

Jakegotupandpulledtheropefromthepacks,tyingitoffbetweentwotrees.Whenheturnedback,hesawthatHailynhadwrappedablanketaroundhershouldersandwasusingittocoverherselfasshechangedunderneath.Jaketurnedhisbacktogiveherprivacy,goingtotheothersideofDontasandchanginghisclothes.

Whenhereturned,feelingbetterhavingdryclotheson,hecouldjustmakeoutthatHailynwaslyingontheblanket.Shewasleaningonherelbow,withtheblanketsheusedtochangeandanextraonecoveringher.Hewasdecidingweretolayhisblanketdownwhenshespoke.

“Jake,weshouldprobablysharetheblanketstonight.”Shesaidsoftly.“Withthecoldnessofthewindandpossiblerain,sleepingnexttoeachotherwillallowustokeepwarm.”

Jakewasgratefulthatitwasdarkasheblusheddeeply,takenabackbyhersuggestion.Hetriedtoshrugitoffashegatheredtheircloaksfromtherope.Hecameoverandlaidthemacrosstheblankets.“Thatshouldhelpifitrains.”Hesaid,tryingtoactnonchalantashecrawledundertheblankets.

Afteradjustingtheblanketstomakesuretheywerecovered,herolledoverontohisside,facingHailyn.Withthenightbeingsodark,hecouldjustmakeouthershadowyoutlineasshefacedhim.Hecouldfeelthewarmthradiatingfromherbodyassheshiftedcloser.Hebegantosweatalittle,suddenlynervous.Calmdown,idiot.Hetoldhimself.

Heflinchedslightlywhenshelaidahandonhisface.Theystayedlikethatforafewmoments,andthenshesigheddeeply.“Youcanbesofrustratingattimes,Jake.”Shesaidsoftlyassheleanedinandkissedhim.

Hefrozemomentarily,surprised.WhilehehadenjoyedkissingKeria,hefoundthatHailyn’skissfeltdifferent,moremeaningfulandright.Hishesitationnowgone,hepulledhercloseandkissedherback.

…Astheforestbecamelighter,signalingdawn,Jakesoftlyslippedfromthe

blankets,tryingnottowakeHailyn.Hestretchedandgrabbedhisboots,pullingthemon,butnotlacingthem.Shiveringfromthecrispmorningair,hewentovertothehorses,checkingontheircondition.Seeingthattheywerefine,hestartedputtingonhisarmor.Hefeltodd,thoughnotinabadway,asheconsideredwhathadhappenedlastnight.Ittookhimamomenttorealizethathisfeelingscamefromthefactthatitwasthefirsttimehehadsleptwithagirl.

Justslept.Hethought,amused,shakinghisheadasheremembered.Whentheirpassionshadrisen,holdingeachotherclose,Hailynhadgentlypushedhimaway.

“Iamacleric.”Shesaidasshesoftlystrokedhisface.“Weteachthatthephysicalsideofloveisreservedforamanandwomanwithinthemarriagebond,blessedbytheOne.Ibelievethattobetrue,soIcannotbetraymybeliefs.”

“Iunderstand.”Jaketoldher,enjoyinghercloseness,thoughhehadtoadmittoalittledisappointment.

“Ofcourse,evenifIweretothrowasidemybeliefsforyou,thisisclearlynottheplace.”Shesaidwithalittlelaugh.“Arough,dampblanketonmuddyground,withhorsesonlyafewpacesaway,isnothowIpicturedmyfirsttime.”So,theytalkedandheldeachotheruntiltheydriftedofftosleep.

Smilingatthememory,Jakefinishedputtingonhisarmorandsword,andthensaddledthehorses.Ashewasfinishing,Hailynwokeupandlookedoverathim.

“Goodmorning.”Shesaidcontently.“Goodmorning.”Jakereplied,walkingoverandgivingherakiss.“We

probablyshouldeat,getpackedandstartmoving.”

Oncetheystartedriding,Jakefeltabitbetterastheweatherwasbetterthanthedaybefore.Theairwasstillcold,thoughabitwarmer,butthewindhaddieddownand,despitethegrayskies,norainfell.

Theforestgrewthickerastheyrode.Therewasnotrailtofollow;theyhadtomakeduewithwhattheyfound.Fallentreesandboulderswouldsometimesforcethemtodouble-backuntiltheyfoundawayaround.

Despitethesetbacks,Hailynwassuretheywereheadingtherightdirection.“Icanfeelitpullingme,Jake.”Shesaid.“Wehavetocontinueinthedirectionwearegoing.”

Sotheyslowlyworkedtheirwaytothenortheast.Theytriedtofindshelteredcampsitesastheyrode,astheweathercontinuedtochangeday-by-day.Everyevening,theyweresleepingnexttoeachother,talkingquietlyandholdingoneanother.

…Onthemorningofthesixthdaysincetheyleftthelake,Jakehadrisenbefore

Hailyn,aswastheirnormalmorninghabit.Hehadfinisheddressing,hisarmorandweaponson,andwassaddlingHailyn’shorsewhenitandthepackhorsestartedactingnervous,snortingandstampingtheirhooves.Dontasbegantorearup,whinnyingloudly.Jaketookastepback,wonderingwhatwashappening.HeglancedbackatHailyn,whohadsatupintheblankets.Suddenly,hereyeswentwideandpointedbehindhim.“JAKE!”Shescreamed.

Hespun,reachingforhissword,andhesawalargebrownandtanlionleapingathim.Thelionresembledamountainlion,onlylarger,morelikeanAfricanlion.Jakesawitslongfangsasthecatopeneditsmouth,itsclawsextended.

Hethrewuphisleftarmtoprotecthisface,unabletogetoutoftheway.Thelioncaughthisforearminitsmouthasitcollidedwithhim,drivinghimtotheground.Hisarmorprotectedhisarmandchest,butthecat’shindclawssankintohisthighs,suddenpointsofagonycausinghimtocryout,hisvoiceaddingtothechaosasthehorsesreared,whinnyingloudly,andstruggledagainsttheirrestraints.

Jakecouldsmellthefetidbreathofthelion,inchesfromhisface,thesoundofitsfrontclawsrakingagainsthisbreastplatesoundinginhisears.Desperate,hereacheddownwithhisrighthandandfoundhisdagger.Hedrewitandslammeditintothelion’sside.ThecatshudderedandbegantoconvulseasJakeyankedhisdaggeroutanddroveithomeagain.

Suddenly,thecatleaptoffofJake,rollingontheground,itslegsmoving,but

unabletostand.Mewing,itcollapsedonitsside,pantingandoozingblood.Jake,shakenandinpain,triedtomove,buthislegsweretoobadly

damaged.Ashetriedtogetcontrolofhispain,Hailynwasthere,herhandsonhishead,hermagicstreamingintohim.Thepainfromhiswoundsfadedinthatgentleheat,thewoundssealing.Oncethehealingwasdone,withHailynsupportinghim,hestood.

Helookedoveratthelionandsawitseffortsweakening,bloodnowvisibleonitsmuzzle.Jakewipedthebloodoffhisdagger,sheathingit,anddrewhissword.HemovedtofinishoffthecatwhenHailynstoppedhim.

“Wait,Jake.”Shesaid,puttingherhandonhisswordarm.“Don’tkillit.Letmehealit,instead.”

“Whatareyoufreakingtalkingabout?!”Jakeasked,incredulous.“Thatthingalmostkilledme.”

“Itwasonlydoingwhatitknows.”Shesaid,facefirm.“ItisacreatureoftheOneandshouldnotbekilledunlesswemust.”

“So,ifyouhealit,whatistostopitfromattackingusagain?”Jakesaidstarkly.“Iknowthatyoufeelstronglyaboutthis,butwecan’ttakethechance.”Hestartedtowardsthelion,again.

“Jake,please.”Hailynpleaded.“Ithaslostalotofblood.EvenifIhealit,itwillbeweakandwillmostlikelycrawlaway.”

Jakecouldseethatshewasnotgoingtobendonthis.Shakinghishead,hesaid.“Youareflippingcrazytodothis,butalright.”Asshestartedtowardstheanimal,hestoppedher.“But,ifthecatevenlookslikeitisgoingtodosomethingstupid,Iwillcutitsheadoffandyouwillhavewastedyourtime.”

Nodding,Hailynapproachedthelionslowly,comingaroundtoitsback.Thecatdidnotmove,itsbreathslowingandbodyquivering.Kneelingdown,shelaidherhandsonit,herfingersgentlygrippingitsfurwhileJakemoveduptostandbyitshead,hisswordraisedandreadytostrike.Herbodybegantoshineandherpowerflowedintothelion.

AsJakewatched,hesawtherunesonthebraceletsuddenlycometolifeandpulse,sendingspecksofwhiteintothelion.Thecat’swoundshealed,closingandfadinganditbegantomove.OnceHailynliftedherhands,Jakereacheddownandpulledherup,draggingherbehindhim,hisswordaimedtowardsthelion.

Thelionlickedatthebloodnearwhereitswoundswere,andthenpusheditselftoitsfeet.Jakesawthatitwasshaky,itsbodyunsteady.Thecatturnedtowardsthem,itslargeyelloweyesregardingthem.Unexpectedly,itcrouched

downandbegantopurr,soundinglikealargechainsaw.Jakewasstaringatit,notsureofwhattothink,whenherealizedthatthe

horseshadgonequiet.Helookedovertowardsthemandsawthemstandingstill,lookingoveratthelion.Shakinghishead,dumbfounded,heturnedbacktoseeHailynmovingtowardsthelion.Hestartedtoreachforher,butshepushedhishandaway.

Shecautiouslyapproachedthelion,whichwaswatchingherwith,atleasttoJake,acuriouslookinitseyes.Heshifted,swordready,asshekneltdownandslowlyputherhandonthelion’shead.Thecatflinchedslightly,butthenbegantorubitsheadagainstherhand,itspurrgrowinglouder.Itstoodsuddenly,causingJaketoraisehisswordandmoveforward,butitsimplybegantorubitsheadandbodyagainstHailyn,likeanovergrownhousecat.

Jakewatchedforafewmoments,notreallybelievingwhathewasseeing.Finally,hesheathedhisswordandstoodthereobserving.ThelionleftHailynandcameovertoJake,causinghimtotenseup.Thelionlickedhishand,itsroughtonguelikesandpaperagainsthisskin.Cautiously,hereachedoutandscratcheditshead.Thecatbeganpurringagain,movingclosetoJakeandrubbingagainsthim.

“Iguesswehaveanewfriend.”Jakesaid,lookingoveratHailyn,whowassmilingatthem.

…Withthelionfollowingthem,theycontinuedontheirjourney.Jakecould

stillnotbelievewhathadhappened,glancingbackagainandagainatthelion.However,hewastheonlyonestillsomewhatbothered.Hailynseemedcontentwithhowthingsturnedoutandthehorseswerenolongertroubledbythelion’spresence.

Atcampthatnight,thelionstayednearJakeandHailyn,curlingupnearbywhentheylaidouttheirblankets.Prayingthattheyorthehorsesdidnotendupasbreakfast,Jakewatchedthecatforawhile,finallydriftingoff.Hewasabitstartledwhenheawoketofindthelioncurledupattheirfeet.

Astheytraveledthenextday,theweatherturnedcolderandtheterrainbecamerougher,thehillssteeperandpathsforthehorsesfew.Theystruggledthroughthehills,eachhilltheytraversedfollowedbywhatseemeditstwin.TheconstantandseeminglyendlesschallengeofthehillsbegantograteonJake;hereallywantedsomeflatlandforachange.Asifthefatesrespondedtohisrequest,inthelateafternoon,theymadeittothecrestofalargehill.Theystoppedwhentheysawthatthehillsuddenlyendedatthetopofalargecliff.A

coldwindblewupthecliff,causingtheirclothestowhiparoundastheystaredahead.

Spreadoutinfrontofthemwasalargeopenvalley.Thevalleywasalmostbarren,madeupmostlyofdullgraystonesandwind-sweptdirt.Acrossthevalley,barelyvisibleonthehorizon,wasalineoftall,snow-coveredmountains,theirpeakscoveredbythegrayclouds.Despitethewhitesnow,Jakesensedsomethingdarkandforbiddingaboutthemountains.

Hailynpointedtowardsthem.“Thatiswherewehavetogo.”Jakenodded,resigned.“Let’sfindaplacetocamp.Inthemorning,wewill

findawaydown.”…

Asthewavescrashedagainsttherocksbehindhim,thefrothseemingtoglowinthemoonlight,Martisclimbedoutofthesmallboatthathadbroughthimhere.Hewasinasmallcavethatopenedtotheocean,facingarough-hewnsetofstairsthatwentdeeperintothecliff.DespitefeelingvenerablewithoutRanech,whowasstillaboardthemainship,heslowlybegantoascendthestairs.

Hismysteriousbenefactorhadbeentruetohisword.Latethatevening,hiscellhadbeenunlockedandheandRanechwereledaway.Theyweretakenthroughsometunnels,followingtheirguide,andfoundthemselvesnearthedocks.Theywerehustledaboardamedium-sizedtransportshipandhiddenbelowdecks.Whenthemorningcame,theshiphadsailedfromtheharborandmadeitswaynorth.Theyhadstoppedatseaforseveraldays,waitinguntiltwomoretransportshipsjoinedthem.Oncetheyweretogether,theyresumedtheirtravel.

Hewasheretodeliverhisbenefactor’smessageinperson,hehadbeentold.Duetohispastassociations,hewastheperfectpersontodeliverit.Hewasnotsurewhatthatmeant,buthewoulddoalmostanythingtoavoidtheheadsman’sax.Hisfreedomandmoneywouldbewaitingforhimwhenhecompletedthismissionhehadbeenassured.

Whenhereachedthetopofthestairs,nearbytorchesburningbrightly,therestoodatallman,anAletonian,dressedinarmorandasword.Themanlookedhimupanddownwithcontempt,asneeronhisdarkface.Havingbeenaroundthemforyears,Martisknewinstantlythatthiswasahalf-man.

“Comealong,oldman.”Themansaid,roughlygrabbingMartis’arm.“TheMasterwillwanttoseeyoudirectly.”

Whilehetriedtoaffectanoutwardlycalm,Martisshivered.Afterallthathappenedtohim,thelastthinghewantedtofacewasanotherdemon.Knowing

hewascommittedandhadnochoice,hehopedthathecoulddeliverthemessagequicklyandleave.

Martiswastakendownalonghallandpushedthroughanopeningattheend.Hewasinasmallroom,darkandcold,thestonewallunadornedwithonlyafewtorcheslit.Themanescortinghimkickedhimbehindtheknees,forcinghimtotheground,andthenkneltnexttohim.“Themessengerishere,Master.”Themansaid.

Martisfeltthatfamiliarchillasthedemon,anImp,steppedoutoftheshadowsonthefarsideoftheroomandapproachedhim.Tryingtokeephisteethfromchattering,Martisclenchedhisjawshutandfocusedhisgazeatthefloor.

“Whatisthemessage,worm?”Thedemonasked,itsvoicefrightening.“Iwastoldtosaythatthetimehascomeforthecocktocrow,Master.”

Martissaidquickly.Hehadnoideawhatitmeantandhedidnotcare.“Anythingelse?”Thedemonasked.“Nothing,Master.”Martisreplied.“Excellent,worm.”Thedemonsaid.“Riseandfollowme.”Martiswasdraggedtohisfeetbythehalf-manandshovedafterthedemon.

Hecaughtupandstayedbehindthedemonasitledhimthroughalongtunnel.Attheendofthetunnel,awidecavernstood.Whentheyreachedalandingthatjuttedoutintothecavern,Martissawotherdemonsandatleasttwohundredfollowersmovingaboutthecavern.

“HereiswhatIhavebeenabletogather.”Thedemonsaid,smiling.“Withsurprise,wewillhavesuccess,bringingaboutthechangethatmyMasterhadrequested.”ItlookedoveratMartis,thoseblackeyesreflectingthetorchlight.“Youshouldconsideryourselfluckytobeawitnesstoit.”

Martisswallowednervously.“Forgiveme,Master,butIamonlyamessenger.”

“Notanymore.”Thedemonsaid,thosesharpteethgleamingasitsmiled.“Youwillaccompanyusonthismission.”Thesmilefell.“Iinsist.”

“Ofcourse,Master.”Martissaidquickly,bowing,thoughhewantedtorunandkeeprunning.

CHAPTERTWENTY-THREE

Withthelightcoolingmistfromthesprayofthebowreflectingthebrightsun,DominicobservedthecityofDaneliasasWavemistressapproachedthebreakwaterandtheharborentrance.Hewasstandingalone,leaningagainsttherailatthebowoftheshipandenjoyingthefreshseaair.Whilethedaywashot,especiallyinthedirectsun,itwasblessedlycoolerthanthebrutalheatofParshalthiaandthedesertsurroundingit.

Theyhadescapedtheruins,makingtheirwaystealthilydownthedesertedstreetbacktothehorses.Theyrodeaway,stoppingonlytorecoverthewaterwagon,andcontinuedon.Eventhoughnighthadfallen,theymadetheirwaybacktothefortifiedhilltopbeforestopping.DespitethelossofKalisiaandthesoldier,theywereingoodshapeoverall,sotheystartedbacktoFarSouthernthenextmorning.Theykeptacloseguard,expectingtobeattackedatanymoment,butotherthantheunrelentingheat,theyencounterednothreats.

Breliswastruetohisword;theWavemistresswasmooredatthedockandreadytosailwhentheyreturned.Dominicmadethedecisiontoleaveimmediately,loadingthehorsesasquicklyaspossiblewhiletheystillhadlight.Asnightwasfalling,theshipslippedoutofFarSouthern’sportandturnednorth.

Theyencounteredsomeheadwindsandasmallsquallastheytravelednorth,slowingtheirprogress.TodaywasthesixthdayoutofFarSouthernandDominicwasreadytobebackonland.Whileseatraveldidnotbotherhim,hepreferredhorsesandsolidground.

Heshiftedhisgazefromthecity,lookingalongthecoast.Therewereseveralshipsheadingfortheharbor,acoupleofsmallerfishingvesselsnearthebreakwaterandthreetransportshipsinthedistance.Henoticedacoupleoftradingshipspassingbythetwotowersthatguardedtheharbor,sailingouttothesea.

Brelismaneuveredhisshiptowardstheharbormouth,alittleclosertothebreakwaterthanDominicwouldhaveexpected,thenswungtoport,stayingclosetotherocksnearthesoutherntower.Atfirst,DominicwasnotsureifBreliswasnotjustshowingoffhisskill,butthensawasmallboatcarryinganofficial,likelyaharbormaster,comeoutfrombehindthebreakwaterandpullalongside.Brelis’sailorsthrewdownaropeladderandthemanclimbedaboard.Dominicwatchedasthemanwentuptothewheeldeckandspokewith

Brelis.Afterthemanfinished,Brelisshoutedoutorderstohissailors.Themainsailcamedown,leavingonlythesmalleroneinthefront,slowingtheship.Brelissteeredtheshipasthemanpointedandgestured.

Soon,theywereapproachingoneofthestonedocks.DominiccouldseeCommanderFarrious,hiswarhammeronhisshoulder,standingamongstagroupofQueen’sGuardonhorses,waitingforthemtodock.Astheshipslowlyapproachedthedock,asailorranpastDominictothrowthebowlinetoawaitingworkerwhileanothersailordidthesamefromthestern.Theworkersonthedockpulledtheshipclose,thentiedoffthelines,securingthevessel.Brelishadthegangwaylowered,thendescendedtothemaindeckasFarriouscameaboard.

FarriouslookedaroundandsawDominic.Heapproached,stoppingafewfeetawayandsettingtheheadofhiswarhammeronthedeck,andgavehimabow.

“Greetings,LordDominic.”Farrioussaid,hisdeepvoicerumbling.“Ihopethatyouhadsuccess.”

“Thankyou,CommanderFarrious.”Dominicrepliedwithanodofhishead.“WhatweareseekingwasnotinParshalthia.I’msorrytoreportthatthreeofyoursoldierswerelostintheeffort.”

“Thatistragic,mylord,butmymenunderstandtherisksofsoldiering.”Farrioussaidstoically.“IwillhaveSergeantStonebuilderbriefmeandwewillmakesurethattheirfamiliesarecaredfor.”

“Stonebuilderandyourmenacquittedthemselvesadmirablyindifficultcircumstances.”Dominicsaid.“Theyhaveanexcellentcommander.”

“Youarekind,mylord.”Farrioussaid,noddinghishead.“TohavesuchacomplimentfromtheDemonhunterisahighhonor.”

“Whatnow,Farrious?”Dominicasked.“I’msureyoudidnotjusthappentobeonthedockstakinginthesaltair.”

“Indeednot,mylord.”Farriousrepliedwithasmile.“Whenyouandyourpartyareready,wewillproceedbacktothepalace.Thequeenwishestohearfromyouonallthathappened.”

“Ofcourse,Commander.”Dominicsaid.“Oncewehavethehorsesoff-loaded,wecanproceed.”

BrelishadhismenstartbringingthehorsesupfromtheholdwhileDominicwentbelowtoretrievehisequipment.Whenhereturnedtothedeck,Shadowwasalreadyonthedock.Hewentdownandcheckedonthehorse,thensaddledhim,tryingtoignoretheslightrockingsensationthathestillfelt.Heslunghissaddlebagsandpulledhimselfintothesaddle.

Afterallofthesoldiersandclericswereofftheship,Farriousorderedthesoldiers,exceptforStonebuilder,backtotheirbarracks.AstheypassedbyDominic,theyliftedtheirspearsinsalute.Hedrewhisswordandhelditaloftinreturn.

MoshannajoinedDominic,hisfacegrim.Hehadbeenquietformostofthereturnjourney,keepingtohimself.Dominicknewhewaspreparingforwhateverpunishmentthequeenordered.

Whentheclericswereontheirhorses,Farriousgavetheorderforthesoldierswithhimtoformuparoundtheparty.Oncehewassatisfied,hemountedalargewarhorseandtheystartedtowardsthepalace,Stonebuilderridingnexttohim.

Astheyrode,DominicwatchedasStonebuilderspokequietlywithFarrious,lookingbackoverhisshoulderatMoshannafromtimetotime.Farriousnoddedandlookedbackoncehimself,buthisfacebetrayednothing.

Aftertheyenteredthepalacegrounds,Farrioushadthemdismount.“Mysoldierswilltakethehorsestothestablesandyourbagswillbebroughttothepalace.”HelookedoveratDominic.“Yourhorsewillbewell-caredfor,mylord;Igiveyoumyword.”

“Ihavenodoubts,Commander.”Hesaidashehandedthereinstooneofthesoldiers.HepattedShadowasthesoldierledthehorseaway.

“Thequeenawaits.”Farrioussaidasheturnedandstrodetowardthepalacedoors.

Astheyenteredthethroneroom,DominicnoticedDarriusstandingwithagroupofnobles,hisarmscrossedandaself-satisfiedlookonhisfaceashewatchedthemapproachthethrone.Behindhimwasatallwomanwithlong,wavydarkhair,hercocoaskinsmooth,herlargebrowneyesstrikingonherbeautifulface.Outofthecornerofhiseye,DominicsawMoshannapauseslightlywhenhesawher,thencontinueon,facefixedforward.

Theyreachedthethrone,withtheAletonianskneelingwhileDominicmadeacourtlybow.Thequeengesturedforthemtorise,thenaddressedDominic.

“MylordDominic,werejoiceinseeingyoureturnsafely.”Thequeensaid.“Beforewediscussyourmission,Imusttellyouthatwehavereceivedsometragicnewsfromyourcountry.MyinformantssentamessageinformingmethatanoblenameLordMarcelasattemptedanoverthrowoftheking,withfightingtakingplaceinthepalaceitself.Theplotterswereovercomeandkilled,butthekingdiedinthefighting.TheyoungprincessisnowQueenofSanduas.”Thequeenshookherhead.“Istillrememberherasapreciouslittle

child.Itishardtopictureheronthethrone.”“Also,themessagementionedthattheChiefCleric,whomIknowtobeyour

friend,wasgravelyinjuredinthebattle,butsurvived.”Thequeencontinued.“Youhavemysympathies,mylord.Iknowthatyouhadyourdifferenceswithhim,butKristinwasalevelheadedandfairrulerwhomIrespected.WhenyoureturntoSanduas,wouldyoutakealetterfrommetotheyoungqueen?”

“Itwouldbemyhonor,YourMajesty.”Dominicsaidurbanely,thoughhewastroubledbythenews.

“Thankyou,mylord.”Thequeensaid.“Nowtothesubjectathand.Howdidyourmissiongo?”

“Whatwesoughtwasnotintheruins,YourMajesty.”Dominicreplied.“Onthewaytoandwhileintheruins,weconfrontedanddestroyedseveraldemonsandtheirfollowers.IamsaddenedtoreportthatthreeofyoursoldiersandayoungWildgirlwerekilledintheseencounters.”

“Wewillhonortheirmemories,mylord.”Thequeensaid.“HowdidaWildgirlbecomepartofyourparty?Perhapsyoucanstartfromthebeginning.”

Nodding,Dominictoldherthestoryoftheirjourney,includingKalisia’ssacrifice.Knowingwhatwastocome,hepointedlymentionedMoshanna’scontributionsandskills,sayingthatitwascriticaltothemission.Afterhehadfinished,thequeenwassilentforafewmoments.Whenshespoke,hervoicewaskind.

“Iknowthatlosingthegirlwasdifficultforyou,mylord,butIamgratefulthatshewasthere.”Thequeensaidgently.“Wewillhonorhermemoryaswell.”

ThequeenturnedtoAnatan,whowasstandingnearthethrone.“SisterAnatan,IwishforyoutomeetwithCommanderFarriousanddevelopaplantosendanarmyofsoldiersandclericstothesouthandclearthoseruins.Iwillnothaveanestofdemonslivingopenlyinmyland.”

“Asyoucommand,YourMajesty.”Theclericrepliedwithabow.“Pleasestepback,mylord.”ThequeentoldDominicsoftly.Whenhehad

rejoinedFarrious,shecalledtoMoshanna.“LetthetraitorMoshannaDeepwoodapproachthethroneandhearjudgmentregardinghisoffenses.”

Moshanna,hisfacecalm,squaredhisshouldersandapproachedthethrone.Hestoppedandknelt,lookingupatthequeen.

“MoshannaDeepwood,youbroughtshameuponyourselfandyourfamilybyyouractionsyearsago.”Thequeensaid,herfacefirm.“Iamwithinmyrightstohaveyourheadforyourcrimes.”

“Thatisindeedyourright,YourMajesty.”Moshannasaiddirectly.“However,youhaveprovenyourselftoLordDominic,amanofgreat

honor.Hehastoldusthatyoufoughtbravelyandskillfully,helpingridtherealmofsomedemonsandtheirillfollowers.”Shepausedforamoment.“ButLordDominicisofSanduas,notAletonia.Whilenodisrespectofhishonorisintended,IneedtohearsuchatalefromaloyalsubjectofAletonia.”

“SergeantStonebuilderwasamemberoftheirmission,YourMajesty.”CommanderFarrioussaid,gesturingtowardstheman.“Iknowandattestthatheisaloyalservantandamanofhonor.”

“Pleasetellusyourimpressions,Sergeant.”Thequeensaidasshegesturedtowardshim.

StonebuilderlookedoveratMoshannaforamoment,andthensteppedforwardandaddressedthequeen.“YourMajesty,IwasnothappywhenLordDominicplacedthetraitorashissecond.Iknewofhiscrimeagainstyou.”Hepaused,thentookabreathandcontinued.“However,IamforcedtoagreewithLordDominic’sassessment.MoshannaDeepwoodacquittedhimselfwithhonorandcourageduringourmission,facingthedemonsandtheirfollowersindirectcombat.Werehenotanattaintedtraitor,Iwouldfollowhimintobattleagain.”

Dominicletoutthebreathhewasholdingasalowbuzzsurgedthroughouttheroom,asthegatherednoblesbeganspeakingatonce.ThequeenmadegesturetoFarrious,whobangedhiswarhammeronthestonefloor,thesoundechoingoffthewalls.

“Quiet!”Heshouted.Thenoisedieddownandthenoblesreturnedtheirfocustothequeen.

“SergeantStonebuilder,weappreciatethetruthofyourwords.”Thequeensaidregally.“Youareamanofhonorandyouhavethethanksofyourqueen.Youmaystepback.”

“Itismyprivilegetoserveyou,YourMajesty.”Stonebuilderrepliedwithabow,andthenretreatedbacktowherehehadbeenstanding.

“So,InowmustweighwhatIhaveheard,consideringitversustheoffenceyoucommittedagainstme.”ThequeensaidasshestareddownatMoshanna.

“Youcannotforgivehim,YourMajesty.”Darriusstatedharshly,steppingforward.“Hiscrimewasagainstmeaswell.”

ThequeenlookedoveratDarrius,disapprovalonherface.“Ihavewarnedyouaboutmakingdemandstome,LordDarrius.”Shesaidfirmly.“Iwillnotwarnyouagain.”

“Forgiveme,YourMajesty.”Darriussaidwithabow.“Myhonorisat

stakehere.Ibegyounottoallowthistraitortoevadehiscrime.”“Verywell,LordDarrius,Iwillhonoryourwishes.”Thequeensaid.

Darriussteppedback,asmugsmileonhisface.Thequeenstood,herfacelikestone.Sheheldoutahand.“Hearmy

judgment,MoshannaDeepwood.Foryourcourageandeffortsonbehalfofthisrealm,Iforgiveyouofanyoffenceagainstmeanddeclarethatthelabeloftraitoriswithdrawn.”

ThereweregaspsaroundtheroomandDarrius’facebecameamaskofangerwhenthequeensaidthis.Liftinghishammer,Farriouslookedaroundtheroom,disapprovalonhisfaceandthenoisequieted.Oncesilencedescended,thequeencontinued.

“AsLordDarriushasstated,hishonorisprecioustohimandIcannotforgiveyouofthatoffence.”Shesaid,gesturingatDarrius.“So,onthemorrow,youandLordDarriuswillmeetinthearenaandsettlethisbycombat,asyoushouldhavedoneyearsago.Thatwayhecanpreservehishonorandyouhaveachancetoredeemyourself.”Withaslightsmileonherlips,shesatdown.

“Tofinish,allthatremainsisforeachofyoutochooseasecond.”Thequeenstated.

“IchooseLordBacus,YourMajesty.”Darriussaid,voicehardandangry,pointingatalargemannearhim.

“Iacceptyoursecond,LordDarrius.”Thequeensaid,thenlookedatMoshanna.“Whowillbeyoursecond?”

“Iwill,YourMajesty.”DominicsaidbeforeMoshannacouldspeak.“LordDominic,Iknowyouareamanofhonor,butyouhavetounderstand

that,ashissecond,youwillensurethathearrivesatthearenaoryouwilltakehisplace.”Thequeenwarned.“Asyouareaguest,Iwillallowyoutowithdrawyourstatement.”

DominiclookedoveratDarrius,eyescoldandaslightsmileonhisface.Darriusstaredback,thoughtherewasahintofdoubtinhiseyes.Good.Dominicthought.Heturnedbacktothequeen.“Iwillbehissecond,YourMajesty.”Hestatedagain.

“Sobeit.”Shesaid.ShelookedoveratCommanderFarrious.“PleasehavequartersinthepalacesetasideforLordDominicandMoshannaDeepwood.”

Shestood.“Inthemorning,thismatterwillbedecidedonceandforall.”Shestated,andthenleftthethroneroomtothebowsandcurtsiesoftheassemblednobles.

DarriusglaredhatredoveratMoshannaandDominic,thenmotionedtohisfollowersandstormedoutofthehall.

“Ifyouwillfollowme,youcantakeyourrest.”Farrioussaid,gesturingtowardsadooracrossthehall.HeleanedclosetoDominicastheyheadedforit.“Bravelydone,mylord,butwatchyourself.Darriusdoesnotforgetanyslight.”

“YoucantellhimwhereIam,ifhewishestodiscussit.”Dominicsaidwithashrug.

Farriouslaughed.“NowthatissomethingIwouldlovetosee.”…

Dominicleanedagainsttherailonthebalcony,staringoutonthecity,themooncoveringthebuildingsandstreetsinasoftsilverylight.Thecooloceanbreezegentlyshiftedthelongsilkcurtainsthathunginsidethebalconydoor.Heclosedhiseyes,feelingtheairmovearoundhim;itwasrefreshing,withjustahintofthesea.

Moshannawasjustinside,sittingononeofthecushionedbenchesinthemainroom.Hehadhisswordout,runningasharpeningstonealongit.Hewasfocusedonwhatlayahead,soDominicgavehimhisspace.

Dominicopenedhiseyeswhentherewasagentleknockonthedoor.WithFarrious’warninginhismind,hemotionedMoshannatostayseatedashewenttothedoor.Hecautiouslyopenedthedoor,hishandonhissword.StandinginthehallwasSisterAnatanandafigureinahoodedcloak.

“Forgiveme,LordDominic,butIhavesomeonewhowishestoseeMoshannaDeepwood.”Anatansaid.“Thequeenhasapprovedthismeeting.”

Dominicfrowned,butsteppedback,allowingtheclericandotherpersontoenter.Heglancedoutintothehall,butnoonewasvisible.Closingthedoor,heturnedbacktoseeMoshannarisefromthebench,facingAnatanandtheclockedfigure.

Thefigurereachedupandpushedbackthehood.DominicsawthatitwasthewomanwhohadbeenstandingbehindDarrius.HesawMoshannasmile,thoughheappearedslightlynervous,somethingDominichadnotseeninhimbefore.

“Iwillleavenow,butwillreturnshortly.”Anatansaid,headingbacktowardsthedoor.“Youhavefifteenminutes.”Moshannanodded,thoughhedidnottakehiseyesoffofthewoman.

“Youmustremainhere,mylord.”AnatanwhisperedtoDominic.“Youareamanofhonor,soyourpresencewillallowyoutostatethatnothingimproper

tookplace,ifthismeetingweretobecomeknown.”AfterDominicnodded,sheleft.

Moshannaandthewomanhadsatdownontwoofthebenches,facingeachother.MoshannalookedoveratDominic.“ThisisSharin,Dominic.”Hesaid,hisvoicefullofemotion.

“Greetings,mylord.”Sharinsaidpolitely.“Mylady.”Dominicreplied,noddinghishead.“Whatareyoudoinghere,Sharin?”Moshannaasked.“Itcouldbe

dangerous.WhatifDarriusfindsout?”“Heisoutwithhissycophants,asusual.”Shesaid,afrownonherface.

“Heisrarelyhome,soIamnotsurehecaresanylongerwhatIdo.”“Still,youshouldnothavetakenthechance.”Moshannasaid.“Wecould

havemetaftertheduel,whenwhathewantsnolongermatters.”“Andifhewins,Moshanna?”Sharinasked,tearscomingunbiddentoher

eyes.“Icouldnotbeartobethiscloseandnotseeyou.Especiallyifthingsgowrongtomorrow.”

“Iamnotafraid,Sharin.”Moshannasaid,takingherhand.“SeeingyouremindsmeofwhatIamfightingfor.”

“Donottakehimlightly,Moshanna.”Sharinsaid,coveringhishandwithherotherone.“Heisadeadlyswordsman.”

“SoamI,Sharin.”Moshannastated,restinghisotherhandonhers.“AndIwillbefightingforlove.”

Shesmiledatthatandtheirconversationstopped.Dominicleanedbackagainstthewall,watchingastheysimplysatthere,holdinghands,lostineachother’seyes,untilAnatanreturned.

…Downbythedocks,Darriusmadehiswayintothedrainagetunnels,his

followersclosebehind.Heheldhistorchhigh,lightinghispath,movingforwardandtryingtoignorethedrippingwaterandslipperystones.Afterafewminutesofwalking,theycameintothelargeopeningwhereseveralofthetunnelscametogether.

“So,areweready?”Aninhumanvoicesaid,echoingagainstthehardstone.Darriuswatchedasademonsteppedawayfromthecrowdofmenwhowerefillingtheopening.ThedemonapproachedDarrius,whotriedtoremaincalm,despitethecreepingfear.

“Thereisachangeinplans.”Darriussaid.“Itissomethingthatcanworktoouradvantage.”

ThedemonlistenedasDarriusspoke,asmileplayingonitslips,asitlikedwhatitwashearing.

…“Youarerequestedatthequeen’sbox,mylord.”TheservanttoldDominic,

pointingupthestairsofthearena.“Iwillbereadyinamoment.”Hereplied,turningbacktohischeckof

Moshanna’sarmor.Satisfiedthateverythingwasinplace,hepulledMoshannaclose.“Remembertostayfocused.Youcannotaffordtothinkofanythingbutthemoment.”

“Iknow,Dominic.”Moshannasaidgrimly,lookingacrossthedirtfloorofthearenaatDarrius,whowaslazilytwirlinghissword,asmileonhisface.“IfIfall,tellTomaristhatIamsorryIfailedhim.”

“IwouldrathernotmakethetriptotheKeep,Moshanna,sodonotfall.”Dominicsaid.Heextendedhishand.“Luckbewithyou.”

Moshannashookhishand.“Ithasbeenmyhonortobeyourcompanion,DominicDemonhunter.”

Dominicnodded.“Andithasbeenminetoknowyou,MoshannaDeepwood,CaptainofTomaris’Guard.”

Withthat,hewentovertothestairsthatledoffthearenafloor.Asheclimbedout,servantsplacedwoodenbarriersoverthestairs,ensuringthatthecombatantscouldnotflee.

Hewentovertotheboxwherethequeenwassitting.Itwasraisedabovethenearbyseats,ensuringaclearviewofthearenafloor,andcovered,providingshade.Alargestonechairwasinthecenterofthebox,theotherseating,stonebenches.Thequeenwasinthechair,talkingwithFarrious,whowasstandingdirectlybehindthechair.

“Joinme,LordDominic.”Shesaid,pointingtothebenchnexttothechair.HesawLordBacusontheothersideofthechair.“Insinglecombatamongstnobles,thesecondssitwiththequeentoensurethattheyremainoutofthefight.”

Dominictookhisseat,lookingoutoverthearena.Hesawthatthearenawasfull,mostlynobles,withQueen’sGuardstationedthroughout.Therewereclericssittinghereandthere,interactingwiththepeoplenearthem.SisterAnatanandSharinwereinthequeen’sbox,sittingbelowBacus.TaricandHalanaweresittingtogetherjustbelowthequeen’sbox.

Thequeenstoodandatrumpetersoundedhishorn.Oncequietfellonthearena,shegesturedtoFarrious.Hesteppedforwardandshouted,hisvoice

carryingacrossthearena.“ThisisaduelbetweenLordDarriusOceansongandMoshannaDeepwood.Itissanctionedbythequeen,sononemayinterfere,underthepenaltyofdeath.Therewillbenoquarteraskedorgiven.Thecontestisoverwhenoneofthecombatantsisdead.”

Farrioussteppedbackandthequeensteppedforward,raisingherhand.MoshannaandDarriuswatchedheruntilshedroppedherhand,andthenmovedtowardseachother,swordsattheready.

Dominicwatchedastheyclosed,DarriussayingsomethingtoMoshanna,whoignoredit.Inasuddenclash,theyengaged,swordsflashingastheymoved.Afteraflurryofblows,theyseparated,adeadlyfocusonbothoftheirfaces.

Moshannafeinted,thencharged.Hisswordwentlow,theblademovingatablur,Darriusbarelyturningtheblow.MoshannathrewhimselfbackasDarrius’swordcurledaroundfromhisdefense,counter-attacking,thebladegoinghigh.

Theycircledeachother,probingeachother’sdefense,attackingwhentheycould.Inasuddenclash,theyslammedintoeachother,andthenspunaway.DominiccouldseebloodonMoshanna’sarm,whileDarriuswasfavoringhisrightleg.

AsMoshannabegantocloseagain,Darriussuddenlyshouted.“NOW!”ChaoseruptedinthearenaasDarrius’mensuddenlyroseupandattacked

theQueen’sGuardsmen,catchingthembysurprise.Outofthecornerofhiseye,DominicsawBacusmove.Reacting,heleaptinfrontofthequeen,reachingoutandstoppingBacus’daggerinchesforherchest.StrainingagainstBacustokeepthedaggeraway,Dominickickedhimlow,drivinghimbackabit.Beforehecoulddoanythingelse,Farrious’warhammerwhistledpasthishead,catchingBacusinthechestandrippinghimfromDominic’shandsasheflewback.Hetumbledontothearenaseats,chestcrushed.

“Protectthequeen!”Farriousbellowed,hammerattheready.NearbyQueen’sGuardsmenreacted,racingtothequeen’sbox.

Dominicdrewhisswordandsurveyedthebedlam.Peoplewerefleeing,cloggingtheexits,whileDarrius’menwereattackingtheclericsandQueen’sGuard.Belowhim,hesawoneofthemenspinafterkillingaGuardsman,chargingtowardsTaricandHalana.Dominicleaptoverthetwo,hisswordready.Duckingundertheman’sswing,hetooktheman’slegs.Screaming,themanfellandDominicfinishedhimwithasinglethrusttothechest.

“Upnearthequeen!”HeterselyorderedTaricandHalanaashesawdemonsandtheirfollowerssuddenlyflowinfromtheopeningsaroundthebaseofthe

arena,attackinganyonethatgottooclose.HeglanceddownandsawseveralofDarrius’mendropintothearenaand

advanceonMoshanna.“Go,Dominic!”Thequeencalledtohim.HeglancedbacktoseeFarrious

organizingthequeen’sdefense,Sharinsafelynexttothequeen,Anatan,HalanaandTaricallglowinginpowerastheheraldblewadistresscallonhishorn.

Sprintingahead,hechargedintothehalf-menthatappeared,blockinghiswaytothearenafloor.Movinghardandfast,hisswordablur,heslammedintothem,blockingblowswithhisarmorashestruckhisswordhome.Thetwohalf-menwentdown.

HestartedtomoveforwardwhenhecaughtsightofanImptohisright,surroundedinitsdarkpower.Hethrewhimselftothegroundasaboltofdemons’firetorepast,narrowlymissinghim.Herolledandgothisfeetunderhim.TheImpwasmoving,levelinganotherblastwhenastreamofcleric’sfirehitit,drivingitback.Helookeduptoseethethreeclericsadvancing,strikingatthedemonsandhalf-men.

Freedfromdefendingagainstthedemon,heleaptontothearenafloor.HesawthatMoshannawasretreatingasDarriusandhisthreemenwereadvancing.Dominicsprintedovertohim.Darriuswastakenabackbyhisappearance,butthentoldhismen.“KilltheDemonhunter,butDeepwoodismine.”

DominicsplitofffromMoshanna,drawingthemenaway,whileMoshannaclosedwithDarrius.Dominicduckedunderthefirstman’sblow,movingawayashedrewhisdagger.Heworkedtokeepthementohisfront.

Withacry,thethreechargedhim.Hismindcalm,Dominicwaited,movingatthelastminute.Hetwistedhisbodyasheslippedbetweentwoofthemen,feelingabladeslidealonghisbreastplateashedrovehisdaggerintotheman’sthroat.Rippingitfree,hespun,facingtheremainingtwomenastheothermanfelltohisknees,handspressedagainsthisthroat.Theothermenweremorecautiousastheysplitapart,tryingtocomeatDominicfromoppositesides.Dominicchoosethemantohisleft,meetinghisattack,parryingtheblowthendrivinghisswordintotheman’sshoulder.Hespunaway,butcouldnotcompletelyblocktheotherman’sattack.Hefeltalineoffireacrosshisarmastheman’sbladecaughthim.Ignoringthepain,Dominicchargedintotheattack,slamminghisforearmintotheman’sface.Asthemanfellback,Dominic’sswordflashed.Themancollapsedastheblowtookhiminthehead.Dominicjumpedoverthebodyandbroughthissworddownontheremainingman.Oncehislastopponentwasfinished,heturnedtofindMoshanna.

MoshannaandDarriuswerestillengaged,theirswordsmoving.Dominiccouldseebloodonbothmen,butDarriuslookedtheworseofthetwo.Moshannamovedlikeasnake,hisbladeflashingasitcaughtthelight,butDarriuswasquickaswell.

Socaughtupintheirduel,theydidnotnoticeDominic’sapproach.HecamefromDarrius’blindsideandbroughthissworddown.

DarriusscreamedandfellbackasDominic’sbladetookoffhisswordhand.Moshannatookadvantageanddrovehisswordhome,hisfacetightwithrage.Darriusshudderedasthebladestruckdeepandwentstill.

“Iwouldhavehadhimsoonenough,Dominic.”Moshannasaid,pullinghisswordout.

“Iknow,butnowisnotthetimeforpoliteniceties.”Dominicsaid,shakingthebloodfromhissword.Hepointedtothebattleinthestands.“Wehaveworktodo.”

MoshannanoddedandfollowedDominicastheyracedbacktowardsthequeen’sboxwherethefightingwasraging.

CHAPTERTWENTY-FOURJakegrippedhiscloaktighteraroundhim,hisbreathmakingapalemistas

heclimbedtherockytrail.HeheldDontas’reins,keepinganeyeonHailynleadingherhorseaheadofhim.Withalightsnowontheground,thehorseswerehavingtroublekeepingtheirfootingontheslipperyrocks.Theyweremakingtheirwaytowardswhatlookedlikearuinedcastle,perchedinthemountainsabove,itsdarktowersinstarkcontrasttothewhitedustingofsnowthathungtothem.

Astheyreachedthetopoftheincline,HailynmovedforwardenoughforJakeandthehorsestopressinnexttoher.Thelionslippedunderthehorses,itspresencefamiliarnow,andcrouchednexttoHailyn.Jakesawherreachoutandgentlystrokeitsheadwhileshesurveyedthenarrowpassthatranuptowardstheruins.

“Idon’tthinkthehorsescangoanyfurther,Jake.”Shesaidassheturnedtowardshim,snowcoveringherhood.“Thepathistoosteep.”

Jakeconsideredtheravineandagreedwithherassessment.Lookingaround,hesawasmallareanearbywitharockyoverhang,partiallyshelteredfromtheweather.“Wecanleavethehorsesthere.”Hereplied,pointing.

Shenodded,leadingherhorseovertothearea.Jakefollowed,withDontasandthepackhorsebehindhim.Aftertheyhadlaidoutsomefeedforthehorses,theydidaquickcheckoftheirequipmentandsupplies.Jakepulledouthishelmandputiton,themetalcoldagainsthishead.Whenhefinishedcheckinghisarmorandweapons,heslungasmallbagoffoodandwateroverhisshoulder.HewaiteduntilHailynindicatedthatshewasready.

Astheystartedforthepass,thelionfollowedthem.“No,Daca.”Hailyntoldthecat.“Stayhere.”Thelionregardedherwiththoselargeyelloweyes,notmoving.Shemadeashooingmotionwithherhand,butthelionsimplywaited.Shetriedtopulltheanimalbacktowardsthehorses,butitdrewawayfromhergrasp.Sheleaneddownandtriedtopushitback,butitsimplylickedherfacewhenshewasclose.

Jakesmiledslightlyashewatchedthem.Overthefivedaysittookthemtocrossthatcolddesertvalley,HailynhadbeenfeedingthelionstripsofthesaltedfishthatTurlichadsuppliedthemwithandnowthelionstayedclosetoher.Jakewasfinewiththat,sinceheknewofherloveforanimalsandthefactthat

hecouldn’tstomachthefish.Ithadseemedlikeforeverbeforehewasabletogetthattasteoutofhismouthafterhetriedit.

ItwasontheseconddaywhenHailynhaddecidedtonamethelion.Theyhadsetupcamp,anglingablanketbetweentworockstheblockthewind,andweresittingandtalkingwhenthecatcameover.Itlaydownnexttoher,itspurringaconstantrumble.

“Daca.”Shesaid,gentlystrokingthelion’shead.“What?”Jakeasked.“IwasjustthinkingbackonadogIhadwhenIwasalittlegirl.”Shesaid

withasmile,hereyesfaraway.“Itwasawonderfuldog,friendlyandobedient.Thedog’snamewasDaca.”Shelookeddownfondlyatthecat.“IthinkIwillcallhimDaca.”Jakehadjustsmiledandshookhishead,amused.

Thetripitselfhadnotbeenamusing.Ithadbeenroughgoing,withseeminglypermanentgraycloudsblockingthesunandaconstanticywindblowingdownfromthemountains.Thewindstirredandswirledthefinedirtthatcoatedthevalleyfloor,gettingitintoeverything.DespitethehardshipsandJake’smisgivings,Hailynwasconfidentthattheyweregettingcloser.

“Icanfeelit,Jake.”Shetoldhimconfidentlyonenight,rubbingthebracelet.“Itisgrowingstronger.”

Theconstantpullinghadledtothemountainsandthenintotherockycragswheretheyfoundthemselves.Itwasonlythismorning,whenthegraycloudsretreatedupthemountainsjustfarenough,thattheysawtheruins.Theywerelarge,madeofadarkstone,builtagainstthesideofthemountain.Thewallwasfallingdowninplaces,butlookedtobemostlyintact.Theycouldnotseeanyentrances,sotheywouldhavetoclimbtoitandfindawayin.

“Ithinkheplanstostaywithyou,Hailyn.”Jakesaid,movingoverandwrappinganarmaroundher.Hecouldseethatshewasunhappy,butshefinallynodded.

“Itwillbedangerousforhim.”Shesaidworriedly.“ButsinceIcan’tforcehimtomove,IguessIwilljusthavetowatchoutforhim.”

“Let’sgo.”Jakesaidgentlyandstartedforthepass.Theravinewasaroughpassage,withtherockyslopesteepandslippery,the

rockwallsjagged.Shortlyaftertheybegan,theywereforcedtousethewallsforsupport,theirbootsslippingastheyslowlyclimbed.Dacadidnothavetheirproblems,thecat’sclawsgivingittraction.

Ittookthemlongerthanexpectedtoreachtheruins,asthewindseemedtofunneldownthepass,blowingdirectlyintheirfaces,whiletheystruggledto

maintaintheirgripastheyclimbed.Theyexitedexhaustedontothelargerockshelfwheretheruinshadbeenbuilt.

Theairwasgrowingdarkasnightfelloverthemountains,obscuringtheirviewoftheruins.Theyfoundalargeboulderthatmostlyblockedthewindandsatdownbehindittorest.Jakepulledoutthebagoffoodandwater,dividingtheirrations.Theyateslowly,allowingtheirbodiestoregainstrength.Aftertheyconsumedtheirrations,theyleanedbackagainsttheboulderandtalked.

“Itishere.”Hailynsaidquietly.“Iknowitis.Wejustneedtofindawayin.”

“Theplaceisprobablycrawlingwithdemons.”Jakesaidapprehensively.“Weshouldtrytostaylow-profileforaslongaspossible.Idon’twanttohavetofightthewholelotofthem,ifwecansneakin.”

“Iagree,butIdoubtthatwecangetveryfarwithoutnotice.”Shereplied.“Iknow,butlet’stry.”Jakesaid.Hetookadeepbreathandletitout

slowly.Hetookherhandandgaveitasqueeze.“Ifthingsgowrong,Iwantyoutorun.Runandkeeprunninguntilyouaresafe.”

Shesmiledathim,touchinghisface.“Thatisanicesentiment,butIamaclericoftheOne,soIcannotruninthefaceofevil.WehavetohavefaiththattheOnewillseeusthrough.”

“Ihopeyouareright.”Hesaidashestood.Hehelpedhertoherfeet.“Areyouready?Wemightaswellgetstarted.”

Shenoddedherhead,thenreachedupandpulledhisfaceclosetohers.“Iamgladthatwearetogether,Jake.Ifwemeetourend,IwantyoutoknowthatIloveyou.”

ThewordstookJakebysurprise,butheknewwhathehadbeenfeelingforherwasthesame.“Iloveyoutoo,Hailyn.”Heleanedforwardandkissedher.Theypulledeachothercloseandheldeachotherforalongwhile.Finally,theyreluctantlybroketheirembrace.Theygazedintoeachother’seyes,relishingthemoment,awarethatitmaybeforthelasttime.

Stillholdingherhand,Jakestartedfortheruins,Dacarightnexttothem.Theyhurriedtowardsthewall,watchingforanysignofmovement,buttheyreachedthewallunnoticed.JakereleasedHailyn’shandanddrewhissword.WithDacamovingoutfront,theymadetheirwaydownthedarkstonewall,lookingforawayin.

Suddenly,Dacastoppedandbeguntogrowl,alowrumble,asthelion’sbodybecametenseandalert.JakepushedHailynagainstthewallandcreptforward.HeslidpastDaca,tryingtoseewhathaddisturbedthecat.The

darknessofthenightlimitedhisvision,sohecontinuedtomoveforwardslowly.Afterafewsteps,hesuddenlyfeltachillcompletelydifferentthanthecoldthatsurroundedhim.

Onlyafewfeetinfrontofhim,therewasasoftgrindingofstoneasahiddendooropened.JakecouldjustmakeouttheshadowyshapeofanImp.Thedemonsteppedoutfromthewallandontotherockshelfinfrontofhim.

OnceJakesensedthatthedemonwasalone,hegatheredhiscourageandchargedit.ThedemonseemedtohearJakeatthelastmoment,spinninginhisdirection,butJake’sswordwasalreadyinmotion.Hefelttheswordtugasitseveredthedemon’sheadfromitsshoulders.TheImpdroppedtotheground,itsdarkbloodvisibleagainstthewhitesnow.

Jakecautiouslylookedinthedoorway,seeingonlyfainttorchlight.Hekickedthedemon’sheadofftheshelf,pushingthebodyafterit.DacaandHailyncameuptotheentranceasJakestuckhisheadin,glancingquicklydownthelonghallontheotherside,butitwasempty.

Heslippedinside,Dacarightbehindhim,followedbyHailyn.Hepushedthestonedoorshut,thenlookedatHailyn.

“Thisway.”Shewhispered,pointingdownthehalltotheirright.Theymovedquicklyandasquietlyaspossible.Theywentdownthehall,theirtensionheightenedastheywaitedtorunintotheirenemies.Astheycautiouslyapproachedanopeningontheleft,Jakeslowed,andthenstopped.

Afterheglancedin,seeingasetofstairsheadingup,hestartedforwardandmotionedforHailyntofollow.

“Wait.”Hailynsaidquietly,grabbinghishand.Sheclosedhereyes,herbrowsscrunchingassheconcentrated.Afteramomentortwo,sheopenedhereyes.“Wehavetogoup.”

Jakenoddedandstartedtoclimbthestairs.Thestairswereinanarrowhall,carvedintotheblackstone,withoutanytorcheslit.Theyclimbedindarkness,thefaintlightofthetorchesinthehallwaybehindthemnotbrightenoughtoreachthestairs.Soon,lightappearedaheadofthem,outlininganopeningatthetopofthestairs.

Sweatinginspiteofthecold,Jakeglancedoutandquicklyjerkedback.DownthehallontheleftwerethreeImps,standingtogetherandtalking.HelookedbackatHailyn.Heheldupthreefingers,andthenpointedinthedirectionofthedemons.Hesawhernodherunderstanding.

Takingadeepbreath,Jakeembracedhismagicandleaptintothehall,sendingalargeblastofhisfireracingtowardstheImps.Theywereunprepared

forhisattack,hismagicrakingacrossthem.OneImpsimplyexplodedintoash,theothertwosentwrithingtotheground.Beforetheycouldrecover,helaunchedhispowerdownthehall,destroyingthem,thesoundoftheirdemiseechoinginthehall.

TurninghesawHailynbehindhim,glowingbrightly.Shepointeddownthehall,awayfromwheretheImpswere.Jakenoddedandshestartedforward,Dacanexttoher.Jakebroughtuptherear,keepinganeyeoutformoredemons.Hewassurethatsomeoneprobablyheardthenoisefromthefight.

Ashelookedaround,henoticedthattherewereopeningsneartheroofline.Hedidnotknowwhattheywere,butitwasclearthattheyopenedtotheoutsideashesawafewflakesofsnowdriftin.

Anotherhallwaycrossedtheonetheywerein.Seeminglyoutofnowhere,agroupoffiveImpsappeared.Thedemonsweresurroundedbytheirdarkpower,respondingtothesoundsofJake’sfight.Therewasabriefsecondwherethetwogroupssimplystaredateachother,bothsurprisedtoseetheotherstandingthere.

Hailynreactedfirst,launchingablisteringattack,herpowershiningbrilliantly.Herpowercrashedintothedemons,rippingoneapartandknockingtheothersaway.Jakefollowedherattackwithoneofhisown.Thedemonsattemptedtofightback,butcouldnotstandagainstthem.Theyquicklydestroyedthedemonsandbegantomoveforward.

BeforeJakecouldtakemorethanacoupleofsteps,hewasstruckinthebackbydemons’fire,knockinghimdown.Hismagicprotectedhimforthemostpart,buthedidfeelasifhisbackweresuddenlysunburned.Herolledwiththeblow,risingandlaunchinghismagicback.MoreImpswerecomingdownthehallway.Hailynsteppedupnexttohimandtheyfoughttogether.

…Brucerodeuptotheruins,followingthesecretpaththatonlythedemons

knew.Anale,thegirlhekidnapped,rodeonanotherhorsebehindhim.Hehadtakenthehorsefromapassingtraveler.Hedoesn’tneeditanymore.Hethoughtsmugly.Imadesureofthat.

Bruceshiveredasagustofwindblew,pullinghiscloaktightabouthim.Hewassoreadyforthislittlemissiontobeover.Besideshavingtobeonahorseforsolong,hehatedthecold.Ijustwanttogettheswordandheadbacktowhereitiswarm.

Heglancedupattheruinsandstiffenedwhenhesawtheflashofgoldenlightthroughtheoldwindows.Thatcouldonlymeanclerics.Hestarted

forwardandwassuddenlystunnedbyabrilliantburstofbluelightinthewindows.Therewasonlyonepersonheknewofthathadthattypeofmagic.

Smiling,hepushedhishorseintoarun,Analefollowingashehaddirected.ThisisthedayIhavebeenwaitingfor.Hethoughtexcitedlytohimself.

…Jakedeflectedthedemon’spowerinanexplosionoflightandsoundand

closedwithit.Despitethefactthatthedemonlookedlikeawoman,Jakedidnothesitateanddrovehisswordintoitschest.ThedemonscreamedasJakepulledhisswordout,thenblasteditwithhispower.Thedemonflewbackandburstintoash,thesoundoverlappingtheothersoundsofbattle.

HeturnedandsawHailyndefeattheotherdemon.Dacawasnearherfeet,lickingathiswounds.ThelionhadbeguntoattackthedemonswithJakeandHailyn,histeethandclawsrippingintothem.Kneelingdown,Hailynreachedoutandhealedthecat.

HailynandJakehadbeenfightingtheirwaytowardswhereHailynfelttheswordwaslocated.Thedemonshadbeencominginwaves;oncetheydefeatedaband,theywereabletomoveclosertothesword,onlytofaceanothergroup.Hecouldfeelatouchofwearinesstakinghold.Theyneededtofindtheswordquickly.

“Thisway,Jake.”Hailynsaid,headingdownthecorridor,Dacanexttoher.Jakeranafterher,catchingup.Theymadetheirwaydownthestonehallway.Suddenly,Hailynheldupherhandandstopped.Sheslowlymovedforward,hergazefocusedtowardsthewall.Directlyaheadwasanarrowcorridor,barelylargeenoughtowalkdown.

“Itisdownhere.”Hailynsaid,holdingupherwrist.Jakesawthattherunesonthebraceletwerelightlyglowing.

Jakenoddedandwentdownthecorridor,hispowerlightingtheway.Thecorridorextendedforfiftytosixtyyards,thenopenedintoasmallroundroom.Therewasathickwoodendoorontheotherside.WhenHailynandDacajoinedhim,helookedtoher.

“Itisclose.”Shewhisperedandpointedatthedoor,therunesonherwristshiningbrighter.“Ithinkitisinthenextroom.”

Jakenoddedandstartedtowardsthedoor,butthenstopped.Behindhim,heheardthesoundsofdemonsattheendofthecorridor.Hesentaburstofpowerdownthecorridor,hearingtheclashofmagicsasitstruckademon.

“Goahead.”Hailynsaidasshekneltnearthecorridoropening.“Iwillholdthemhere.”

“Weshouldstaytogether.”Hestated.“Thedemonscanonlyapproachoneatatimehere.”Shesaid.“Wedon’t

wanttohavetofighttheminagroup.Ifthisisouronlywayout,thenitisbettertoholdthepassagehere.”Sheturnedbacktowardsthecorridor,Dacacrouchingnearher.

“Iwillgettheswordasquicklyaspossible.”Jakesaid,decidingnottoarguewithher.“Iwillbeback;staysafe.”

Heopenedthedoorandsawashorthallway.Hemovedinside,walkingslowly,butdeliberately.Aheadofhim,hecouldseeafaintwhitelightglowing.Hehurriedalongandcameintoalargeroom,carveddirectlyintothedarkstoneofthemountain.

Acrosstheroom,lyingonastonebench,wasthesword.Jakepaused,amazed,whenhesawit.Ithadanotherworldlyqualitytoit,beautifullycrafted,itspommelarichgold,thegripwrappedinawhiteleather,withgleamingdiamondsembeddedinthehilt.Thebladewaslong,madeofapolishedmetal.Itwasthebladethatwasproducingthelightthefilledtheroom,glowingfaintly.

Hisexcitementovercominghiscaution,Jakeheadedforthesword.Beforehecouldmakeithalfwayacrosstheroom,atremendousblastofdemons’firestreakedinfromhisleft,slammingintohim.Theblowknockedhimoffhisfeet,sendinghimslidingacrossthefloor.Withhismagicnotfocused,thedarkpowerslippedpasthisdefenses,burningintohisskin.Jakeletoutacryofpain,butrolledtohisfeet,pullinginhispowerashestoodtofacethedemon.

Thisdemonwasunlikeanyotherhehadencountered.Itwasnottall,butwasheavilymuscled,itsarmsandlegsexposedbyitsshortrobebulging,smoothandhairless.Itsfacehadhumanfeaturesonit,normallookingeyes,noseandlips,butitsearsweresharpandpointed.Thedarkhaironitsheadanditspitch-blackeyescontrastedwithitspalegrayskin.ItsdarkpowerpulsedasitsteppedtowardsJake.

“Didyouthinkitwouldbeunguarded,mortal?”Thedemonsaid,itseyesfixedonJake.“Wearepreparedforonefarmorepowerfulthanyou.”

Behindthepaledemon,Jakesawtwooftheredmaledemonsentertheroom.Theybegantospreadout,movingtocloseoffanyavenueofretreat,thoughhenoticedthatthedemononhisright,closesttothesword,shiedawayfromit,nevergettingtooclose.Rememberingthesurgeofpowerthatoccurredontheisland,heknewheneededtogettotheswordoratleastgetcloserifhewasgoingtosurvive.

Hefiredaboltofbluefireatthedemoninfrontofhim,hispowerforcing

thedemonbackastep.Hetriedtomoveashestruck,anglingtowardsthesword,butthereddemonsattacked,forcinghimback.Hewasbarelyabletoturntheirblasts,thefirestaggeringhim.Thepaledemonstruckagainbeforehecouldadjust,knockinghimback,itspowersizzlingasitclashedwithhis.Jakesentawaveoffireouttohisfront,andthentriedtosprinttothesword.Hedodgedthedemons’fireandgotclosertothesword.Hefelthispowerbegintosurge,butthenearestreddemonleaptforwardandcaughthisarm.Itflunghimback,sendinghimtumblingacrossthefloor.Hisarmorprotectedhimfromseriousinjury,thoughhewasshakenasherose.

Beforehecouldsethimself,thepaledemonsurgedforwardandstruckhimwithitsfist,sendinghimflyingback,slammingintothewall.Theimpactknockedthewindfromhim,sendinghimtohishandsandknees.Hisarmorhadheld,buthewasdazedfromtheblowandcouldnotseemtofocushispower.

Ashestruggledtorise,hesawthepaledemonadvancingonhim,atriumphantsmileonitsface.Theotherdemonswereadvancingaswell.Hedesperatelytriedtobringhismagictofocusasthepaledemonraiseditsfist,itspowerfocusedintoaswirlingballofdarkness.

Beforethedemoncouldreleaseitspower,twinboltsofinkyblackfire,theirpassagecrackingtheair,struckthetworeddemonsfrombehind,sendingthemreeling,theirfleshburning.Thepaledemonspunandunleasheditsfire.Therewasaclashofpowerthatshooktheroom,thenthepaledemonwasstruck,staggeringbackfromtheblow.

Suddenly,thethreedemonsbegantoscream,theirbodiesshuddering.ToJake,itseemedasifdarkmotesofashwereliftingoffthedemonsandflowingtowardsthebackoftheroom.Thedemonswrithedontheground,theirlimbsflailing,astheflowofthemotesincreased.Thedemonssuddenlycollapsed,asiftheywereballoonsthatweredeflated.

Jakestruggledbacktohisfeet,pullinginhispower.Helookedacrosstheroomandsawafigureinadarkhoodedrobestandinginthedoorwayacrosstheroom,shuddering.“Thatisalwaysarush.”Jakeheardthefiguresay.

Thefigurestartedtowardshim.Incongruently,aprettygirlaroundsixteenfollowedthefigureintotheroom,butwenttostandagainstthewallwhenthefigurepointed.

“Hello,Jake.”Thefiguresaidasitpushedbackitshood.Jake,startledtohearhisname,wasmoresurprisedtoseethatitwasa

youngerman,maybeinhislatetwenties.Hewasslim,witharecedinghairlinepushingbackhisdarkhair.Hisfacewasplain,withdarkeyebrowsandathin

mustache.Hehadthinlipsandhischeekswereslightlypittedwithscarsfromteenageacne.AsJakestudiedhim,hesawthattheirisesoftheman’seyesweresolidblack,asiftheywerejustlargepupils.

“Whoareyou?”Jakeaskedcautiously,unsureofwhattothinkaboutthisman.

“MynameisBruceTalia.Youmayhaveheardmyname.”Themanreplied,afriendlysmileonhisface.

“BruceTalia?”Jakequestionedindisbelief.“ThekidwhovanishedintheBlackHoleWoods?”

“BlackHoleWoods?”Brucesaid,confused.“IwasinAnderson’sGrovewhenIwaspulledhere.”

“ThatiswhattheycalledAnderson’sGroveafteryouvanished.”Jakeexplained.

“Fittingenoughname,Iguess.”Brucesaidwithalaugh.“Iwonderwhattheycallitnowthatyoudisappeared.”

Jakeshookhishead.“Ihadn’tgivenitmuchthought.”“Itdoesn’tmatter,Jake.”Brucesaid.“Weneedtodiscusswhatweshould

donext.”“Whatdoyoumean?”Jakeaskedcarefully.“Look,Jake,betweenus,wecandestroythedemons.”Brucesaid,coming

closer.“Thinkaboutit.Wewouldbefreeofthem,abletodoaswewished.”“Iamallfordestroyingthedemons,ifwecan.”Jakereplied.“Howwould

wedothat?”“Iwasthinkingthatwecouldworktogetheraspartners.”Brucestated,

excitementonhisface.“Workingtogetherwithourpowers,wecanovercomeanydemonsinourpath.Ievenknowwherethedemonlordresides.Ifwetakehimout,theotherdemonswillfallsoonenough.”

“Iwantmyfriendstobeabletolivetheirliveswithoutworryingaboutthem.”Jakereplied.“Withthesword,I’msurewewillhaveenoughpowertodefeatallofthem.”Hestartedtogoovertowheretheswordwaslaying.

“Ican’tletyouhavethesword,Jake.”Brucesaid,suddenlyfrowning,movingtocuthimoff.

Jakestopped,confused.“Whynot?”“Isaidwewouldbepartners.”Bruceresponded.“Ifyouhavethesword,

thenyoumayhavetoomuchpower.Apartnershipshouldbebetweenequals,oratleast,near-equals.”

“Butwiththesword,wecandefeatthedemonsandmaybegohome.”Jake

protested.“Gohome?”Brucesaid,distastetwistinghismouth.“Whywouldwewant

togobacktoEarth?Thinkaboutit;wecouldrulehere.Oncethedemonsweregone,therewouldbenoonetoopposeus.Wewouldbekings,abletodowhateverwewant.”

“Rule?Kings?”Jakerepeated,dumbfounded.“Dude,areyoucrazy?Ijustwanttogohome.”

Jakestartedforthesword,butstoppedwhenBrucewassuddenlysurroundedbythesamedarkpowerasthedemons.Hepulledinhisownpower,hisblueaurashiningbrightly.

“Getoutofmyway.”Jakedemanded.“Jake,don’tbestupid.”Brucesaid.“Youcan’tbeatme.Idon’twantto

havetomessyouup,butIwillifyoutrytotakethesword.”Jakerepliedwithablastofpower,hiscobaltfireslammingintoBruceina

conflagrationofopposingpowers.Bruceretreatedacoupleofsteps,andthenfiredback,blackfireroaring.Jaketriedtodeflectthepower,butitwasstrong,asstrongasanythinghefaced.Hestaggeredback,andthenattackedagain.

Theyfought,theirmagicscollidingandexplodinginfury.JakecouldnotgainanyadvantagewhileBrucewasabletokeepontheattack.Afteraseriesofattacks,Jakewasknockedoffhisfeetwhenahugeblastofdarknesscaughthimasecondbeforehecouldfullydeflectit.Herolledwiththeblow,makingitbacktohiskneeswhenBruceheldupahandtohaltthefighting.

“See,Jake,Itoldyou.”Hesaid,histonemocking.“Youcan’tbeatmeandallyouaregoingtodoistireyourselfout.”

Jakefrownedatthatandstartedtorise.“Beforeyoudosomethingstupid,letmeaskyousomething.”Brucesaid.

“Whydoyouthinkwewerebroughthere?”“Idon’tknow,butitwasn’ttoruleoverthesepeople.”Jakestated.“Ihavebeentoldwhy.”Brucesaid.“Itisnotforourabilitytowieldpower,

atleastnotthepowerwearefightingwith.”“Whatthen?”Jakeasked,tryingtobuytimetothinkofawaytogettothe

sword.“Wehaveaspecialpowerhere.”Brucesaid,hiseyessuddenlybright.“We

canabsorblifeenergies.”Jakeshookhishead,butBrucecontinued.“HowdoyouthinkIdefeatedthe

demons?Itooktheirlifeforcefromthemandabsorbedit.ThatiswhyIamsopowerful.Itakeitanduseit.”

Jakefrozeinshockashelistened.Hethoughtbackatwhathappenedwhenheusedhislifeforceinthewoodsagainstthedemonsandhalf-men.BothJonasandTomaristhoughtthathehadsomehowtakenJonas’lifeforcetoreplacewhathehadused.ThatunusualcrawlingsensationhefeltonthereturntripfromCreatos’fortress?Couldthathavebeenthelifeforcesofthepeoplenearhim?Hewasnotsurehewantedtheanswertothosequestions.

“YousawwhatIdid,didn’tyou?”BruceaskedashesawthesuddenworryinJake’seyes.“Youcouldseethedemons’lifeforceasItookit,Iknowit.”

Jakereluctantlynodded,recallingthosedarkmotesthatflowedawayfromthedemons.

“Thereisanotherthingaboutourpowerthatiscool.”Brucesaid,eyesfocusedonJake’sface.“Ifyoulightlypullonsomeone’slifeforce,likethis…”

Jakefelthimselftenseashefeltanoddsensationinhischest,likeastringattachedtohisheartwasbeingpulled.HewasunexpectedlyawareofBruceinawayhehadnotbeenjustsecondsago.

“Now,releaseyourmagic.”Brucesaid,hisvoiceseemingtoreverberateinJake’smind.Thatmakesperfectsense.Jakethought,nodding,lettinghispowergo.“Wearegoingtoleavetheswordandyouwillcomewithme.”

“Whenweleave,youwill-”Brucebegan,butleaptbackcursingasthesinewybodyofDacaracedpastJake,thelionlaunchingitselfintotheair,clawsextended.Thelion’sclawsdraggedagainstBruce’schest,drawingblood.Thelionlandedandspunaround.

AssoonasBrucehadleaptback,Jakefeltthatsensationofthestringaroundhisheartsnapbacklikearubberband.Hedoubledover,hisheadspinningandstomachclenchingwithnausea.HecoulddistinctivelyrememberthecommandinginfluencethatBrucehadoverhim.Hetriedtorecallhismagic,buthisspinningheadmadeitimpossible.

Withoutapause,DacaleaptatBruceagain.Brucethrewhimselfbackandwasabletoreactthistime,hisdarkfireflyingfromhishandandstrikingthelioninitshindquarter.Thelionletoutacryofpainasthedarkmagicburnedintoitsflesh.Dacalandedawkwardly,itsbacklegsinjured,butstillturnedandleaptafinaltime.

Brucebroughthishandsupandlaunchedablastofpower.HisfiresweptoverDaca,blastingthelionbackandkillingit,itsbodytumblingtotheground,smoldering.

Brucelightlytouchedhischest,grimacingatthepain.HesawJaketryingtorise,movedoverandkneltdownnearhim.“Let’strythatagain.”Hesaid

confidently.JakefeltthatoddsensationagainandBrucestartedtospeak.“Youwill-”

Thatwasallhesaidbeforehewasblastedbackbyabrilliantboltofgolden-whiteclerics’fire.

ThereboundofthesensationdroveJaketotheground,thevertigoreturningandhisstomachheaving.HerolledtohissidetoseeBrucestandbackup,hisbodysteaming.

“Thatfreakinghurt!”Hesaidsharply.Hisfaceturnedhard.“Iwillmakeyousorryyoudidthat,cleric.”Withthat,hesentaboltofdarkfireracingpastJake.

Jakeheardtheloudclashofconflictingpowerbehindhim.HeturnedhisheadandsawHailynnearthedoorway,shininglikeanintensegoldenflame,therunesonherwristglowingwhite-hot.

SheattackedBruce,tryingtomoveclosertoJake.Brucedefended,counteringwithhisblackpower.Theairseemedtoshudderfromtheexplosionofsoundandlight,theclashingenergiescracklingandlashingtheair.Theycontinuedanon-stopbarrageofmagic,eachtryingtoovercometheother.

EverytimeJakestartedtorise,hefeltthetugandsnapofBrucetryingtocontrolhim,drivinghimbackdown.Dryheaving,hecrawledbacktohiskneesandstrovetostand.Ifhecouldgettohisfeet,hewouldusehisswordsincehewasunabletoaccesshismagic.HisfrustrationatbeingunabletohelpHailyndrovehimmad.Hetriedtoforcehimselftoovercomethevertigothatwaskeepinghimdown.

Ashegottohisknees,heheardatremendousexplosion,andthenHailyncryoutclosebehindhim.Hecouldnotseeher,buttriedtoforcehisbodytogetup.Beforehecouldrise,hesawBrucelooktowardshimandfeltthattuggingsensationstartagain.Butatthesametimethesensationstarted,hefeltHailyn’shandcomedownonhisneck,herpowerflowingintohisbody.Suddenly,herpowersurgedthroughhim,pureheatracingdownthatinvisiblestringthatwastuggingathischest.Shefellbackgasping,herhandcomingfree,asBrucesuddenlyscreamed.Jakefeltthetuggingsensationreboundoncemore.

JakesawBrucecollapseandrollonthegroundinagony,hisskincrackedandsmoking,faceasteamingmassofblisters.Hailyn’spowermusthavebeenpulledinsidehim.Jakethoughtwithsatisfactionashetriedtostand.

Eventhoughherpowerhadhelped,hewasoff-balanceashestood,hisheadstillspinningslightly.Ashetriedtostepforward,hestumbledtohisright,reachingouttostophimselfashebegantofall.Hishandstrucksomething

metal,followedbyabrilliantflashoflight.Lookingathishand,hesawthathehadstumbledovertothestonetableandhishandwasrestingonthehiltofthesword.

Thebladeflaredwhenhetouchedtheswordandhefeltaheatspreadupfromtheswordintohisbody.Astheheatsurged,hismindclearedandhisbodyregaineditsstrength.Wrappinghisfingersaroundthehilt,heliftedthesword.Hewasshockedwhenhefeltthelightnessofthesword;itbarelyseemedtohaveanyweightatall.

Jakeembracedhismagic,feelingitfloodintohisbodyinhugeamounts.Withoutanotherthought,hestrodeovertowhereBrucewaswrithingontheground.Lookingdownathim,Jakebroughttheswordbackoverhisshoulder.Throughhispain,BrucesawJakestandingoverhim.“No,Jake!”Hecriedout,raisinghishand.“Don’tdoit!”

Jake,recallingwhatBrucehaddonetoDaca,aswellastohimandHailyn,ignoredthepleaandbroughtthesworddown.AsthebladestuckBruce,itslightflared,ablindingflashofwhitefirethattorethroughhisbody.Withafinalpitifulcry,heexplodedintoash,thedetonationstunningthechamberwithsound.

Drivenbackbytheblast,Jakecaughthimselfashetrippedandalmostwentdown.Hestraightenedandsawthegirlstandingagainstthewall.Shewasshakingandherfacewasamaskofterror.“Wewon’thurtyou.”Hesaidgently.“Youwillbesafewithus.”Thegirlnoddednervously,tearsstreamingdownherface.JaketurnedaroundtogotoHailyn.

“Hailyn!”Hecriedwhenhesawherontheground,herskincoveredwithburns,hereyesclosed.Heranovertoher,droppingtheswordandkneelingnexttoher,pullingherclose.“Wakeup,Hailyn!”Hebeggedher.

Whenshedidnotrespond,heheldhertightly,tearscomingtohiseyes.Hewasataloss,hismindfrozen,unabletothinkclearly.Heclosedhiseyes,hisheartbreaking.

“Jake.”Heheardhersoftlysayhisname.“Hailyn!”Hecriedout,pullingawayenoughtolookdownatherface.

Despitetheburns,hewasoverjoyedseeherawake.“ThankGodyou’realive!”“Jake.”Shesaidagain,herhandreachingupandtouchinghisface.“Ican’t

seemtocallupmypower;Iamtooweak.Withoutit,Idon’tthinkIwillmakeit.Youmustleavemebehind.”

“No!”Jakesaidharshly.“Iwillcarryyou,ifthatiswhatittakes.”“Therearestilldemonsaround,Jake.”Shesaidquietly.“Youcan’tcarrymeandfightthematthe

sametime.Theswordiswhatisimportant.TakeittoTomarisandreturnhome.”“Whyareyousayingthis,Hailyn?”Jakesaid.“I’mnotgoingtoleaveyou.”“Jake,Iloveyou.”Shesaidsimply.“Iwantyoutosurvive.Todothat,you

mustleaveme.”Shakinghishead,feelingsuddenlyadrift,Jakeclosedhiseyes,tearstrickling

downhischeeks.Hetriedtothinkofawaytosavebothofthem,butcouldnotseemtofocus,hischesttight.HewasoverwhelmedanddevastatedbythethoughtoflosingHailyn.

Ashesatthere,gentlycradlingHailyn,avoicesoundedinhismind,cuttingthroughhisemotion.Usethesword.Thevoicesaid,thesamewarmandgentlevoicethathadcometohiminhisdream.

Startledoutofhissorrow,JakepulledtheswordoverandplacedthehiltinHailyn’srighthand.Atfirstnothinghappened,butthenboththerunesonthebraceletandtheswordbeganglowing,pulsingintime.Thelightspreadfromherhandandslowlycoveredherbody.AsJakeheldherandwatched,herburnsfaded,herrespirationimproved.Afterafewmoremoments,thelightfadedandshewaswholeagain.

Risingslowly,Jakereacheddownandhelpedherup.Hekissedherandpulledherclose.Hedidnotknowhowlongtheystoodthere,buthefinallybroketheembrace.

“Let’sgetoutofhere.”Jakesaid,reachingdownandliftingthesword.Handinhand,theywentovertowhereAnalewaswaiting.

HereendsBook2oftheJakeThomastrilogy.

Jake'sjourneyconcludesinBook3–TheEternalDarkness

ABOUTTHEAUTHORStevenTollewasborninHanford,California,afarmingcommunityintheCentralValley.Afterhighschool,heattendedCaliforniaStateUniversityinSacramento,graduatingwith

adegreeinInternationalRelations.Inthe90's,heservedonactivedutyintheUSArmy,wherehewastrainedasaninterrogatorandto

speaktheLaolanguage.HeworkedonthePOW-MIAsearchesinSoutheastAsiaasmemberofJointTaskForce-FullAccounting.Afterheleftactiveservice,heservedinapsychologicaloperationsunitintheReserves,deployingtoThailandandKoreatosupportmissionsthere.

HehasservedinavarietyofpositionswiththeStateofCalifornia.Inhiscareer,hehasbeenanExecutiveFellow,anappointeeoftheGovernor,aswellasacivilserviceanalystandmanager.

Along-timefanoffantasyandsciencefiction,TheJakeThomasTrilogyishisfirstwritingeffort.HeresidesinNorthernCaliforniawithhiswife,Emily.

TheJakeThomasTrilogyAWorldApartSwordofLightTheEternalDarkness(Forthcoming)