Tsalix Silverthorn And The Maelstrom Of Tears 5g4e3o

Copyright © 2021 Richard M. Siddoway

This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual events, locales, or persons, living or dead, is coincidental.

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ISBN: 978-1-952404-53-5 [paperback] ISBN: 978-1-952404-54-2 [eBook] Library of Congress Control Number 2021932300

Table of Contents

Title Page Copyright Also By Richard M. Siddoway Map Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Chapter 6 Chapter 7 Chapter 8 Chapter 9 Chapter 10 Chapter 11 Chapter 12 Chapter 13 Chapter 14

Chapter 15 Chapter 16 Chapter 17 Chapter 18 Chapter 19 Chapter 20 Chapter 21 Chapter 22 Chapter 23 Chapter 24 Chapter 25 Chapter 26 Chapter 27 Chapter 28 Chapter 29 Chapter 30 Chapter 31 Chapter 32 Chapter 33 Chapter 34 Chapter 35

Chapter 36 Chapter 37 Chapter 38 Chapter 39 Chapter 40 Chapter 41 Chapter 42 Chapter 43 Chapter 44 Chapter 45 Chapter 46 Chapter 47 Chapter 48 Chapter 49 Chapter 50 Chapter 51 Chapter 52 Chapter 53 Chapter 54 Chapter 55 Chapter 56

Chapter 57 Chapter 58

ALSO BY RICHARD M. SIDDOWAY

The Christmas Wish Christmas of the Cherry Snow The Prodigal Father Degrees of Glory An Honest Heart The Christmas Quest The Hut in the Tree in the Woods Habits of the Heart Mom and Other Great Women I’ve Known Twelve Tales of Christmas The Cottage Park Puzzle

Chapter 1

Sunlight streamed through the windows placed high on the walls of the throne room. Some of the windows were adorned with stained-glass images, and the light ing through them cast a multitude of muted colors on the floor. Tsalix, Asur, and Kwercus were ushered into the room. King Elosha, Queen Nadlee, Prince Johona, and Princess Angelica were already seated on their thrones. “Welcome, my dear young friends.” The king’s white hair was secured beneath a crown while he stroked his beard with a vein-mapped hand. “I hope you have had a restful week in Hayeli.” “Aye,” the three of them replied. “If you are sufficiently rested, it is time to continue your journey.” Just a month ago, the three of them had been summoned to meet with Elosha, who had sent them on a quest to recover three talismans. They had recovered the black talisman from the top of Mount Jinee, on the north side of the kingdom, and brought it to the king. Then they had traveled across Shayeksten, the Desert of Desolation, to Mount Tsood, on the south, where they had recovered the blue talisman. Both quests had been fraught with danger and discomfort. Now they were about to leave for the final talisman, which was hidden somewhere on Mount Litso, to the west. Johona said, “I wish there were some easier way for this task to be completed. Mount Litso is not a hospitable place. As you know, it is surrounded by the Sea of Tabass. There are only two ways to reach the yellow mountain. You must travel by sea, to its harbor. Or next to the harbor, go over a bridge that connects it to the mainland.” Tsalix said, “Which do you suggest?” “The trail leading to the bridge is heavily patrolled by my brother Abadon’s forces.” “Then it seems we must go by sea,” Tsalix said. Johona took a deep breath. “I suspect you are right. However, the Sea of Tabass has its own problem—the Maelstrom of Tears.”

“When we were in Saond, Prince Uncia pointed out where the whirlpool lay.” “If it stayed in one place, there would be little problem. Everyone would know the safe routes around it. But it moves. It seems to have a will of its own.” Johona paused. “Still, it seems the safer route.” Kwercus scrunched his face. “Must we cross Shayeksten again to reach the sea?” “Nay. There is an easier, if somewhat longer, way.” Nadlee stood. “May I?” “Of course, Mother.” She retrieved a scroll from a table beneath one of the windows and unrolled it to reveal a map. “If you take the road that leads northwest, to the Tohkal River, you will find that it branches. One branch leads you north, past the villages of Atsanh, Bitahkez, and Hagade, and eventually leads to Mount Jinee.” “I traveled that road,” Kwercus said, “when I first came to Hayeli.” Nadlee nodded. “The other branch turns south and follows the river to its mouth, where it pours into the Sea of Tabass. There is a place there to launch a boat. It is called the Bay of Nihlini.” Kwercus cleared his throat “And is there somewhere we can acquire a boat?” Angelica rose from her throne. “Perhaps we can make your way a bit simpler.” She turned to her father, who handed her a bronze key hanging from a leather thong. “Tsalix completed a task for me on your last journey. Now, Kwercus Strongheart, I believe it is your turn.” She bade him approach her, and when he stood in front of the throne, she placed the thong around his neck. Kwercus raised a brow. “A key, my lady?” “Aye. It will unlock a door that lays concealed three leagues south of the

junction of the trail.” “And how will I know where it is if it is concealed?” Elosha said, “The key will guide you.” Kwercus waited for further information, and when none came, he stepped back and ed his friends. “Thank you,” he said. “Kwercus, you might find this handy.” Johona reached behind his throne and retrieved an axe. Kwercus took the proffered gift with a smile. “I feel more complete now,” he said. Kwercus was a woodsman, Asur a farmer, and Tsalix had been trained as a soldier in Johona’s forces. “Do you have more instruction for us?” Tsalix said. Angelica returned to her throne. “Only this—be safe. Mount Litso will require all of your cunningness and strength.” Nadlee cleared her throat. “Know this, my brave warriors. You will find the talisman in time.” “And you will succeed,” Johona said. “You must. Everything hangs in the balance until you do.” “Then we must be off,” Tsalix said. “You have been most gracious, Your Majesties.” “Perhaps there is one more thing.” Elosha stood. “Asur Longtooth, do you still have the vial given you before you left for the black mountain?” “Nay. I have given it to Tsalix. He seemed more attuned to the vials than I.” “I see. Tsalix, do you have it next to your heart?”

“Aye.” He pulled the vial from under his tunic. It hung from a leather thong and was marked with the word, Wind. “I trust you will know when to use it,” Elosha said. Tsalix thought back to the other three vials they’d been given. The first—fire— had opened the way to the forge pits of Mount Jinee. The second—water—had helped them find the first talisman on its peak. And the third—earth—had provided a barrier when they’d escaped from Abadon’s dungeons. Now, only wind was left. With a smile, Elosha raised his hand in dismissal, and the three young men left the throne room to return to their apartments in the castle. “We might as well begin,” Kwercus said. A few minutes later, they had assembled their gear in their packs and were walking down the main street of Hayeli, on the top of Mount Deschee. The sun shone bright above them, in an azure sky. To the east, a few puffy clouds skirted the horizon. Kwercus shifted his pack. “We have climbed to the top of Mount Jinee, pursued by Abadon’s men. We have crossed the Desert of Desolation, been captured, and escaped. We have learned of the people of Saond, and re-crossed Shayeksten. What could be worse?” Tsalix gnawed on his lower lip. “I’m afraid we’re going to find out, my friend.” In time, they reached the portal to the city, crossed beneath its span, and began their descent on the trail that wound down the mountain. Late in the afternoon, they arrived at Teless. They moved on through the town, and only when they reached the outskirts did they pause at an open barn where a man was milking his cows. Asur recognized Sambucus, a distant cousin, and the dairy man who had welcomed him on his first trip to Mount Deschee. “Sambucus. How are you?” he called out. The man shaded his eyes and looked at them from his barn.

“Why, it’s Asur. I’m wonderful. And you? Are you still on your quest?” Asur nodded. “These are my companions, Tsalix Silverthorn and Kwercus Strongheart.” Sambucus acknowledged them with a bow. “I met Tsalix once before. Where are you going now?” “We are headed to Mount Litso,” Asur said. Sambucus’s features grew dark. “Be careful, my friends. There is much peril on the yellow mountain.” “So we have heard,” Asur said. “But no one has told us exactly what the peril is.” Sambucus took a deep breath. “Perhaps that is because you might decide not to continue your journey if you knew what lies ahead. I have known others who might have turned back had they known what the future held.” Tsalix nodded. “Is there no hint you can give us?” Sambucus thought for a moment. “Only this—be careful on your way. Word has spread across the kingdom that you have succeeded in much of your quest, and Abadon has increased his vigilance. I pray you succeed.” He waved and returned to his barn. “That wasn’t very reassuring,” Tsalix said, as the three of them continued down the trail. Sambucus sat next to the cow he was milking. I wonder how Cha Legai is coming along with his project. He has been on Keyah for nearly two weeks. The supply boat is leaving tomorrow for the island. I wish I were on it. He finished stripping the milk from the spotted cow. There is so much happening, and as much as I wish, I have no control over any of it.

Chapter 2

Cha Legai finished his dinner. In the two weeks since he’d crossed the Swamp of Miasma and landed on this small island, he had become accustomed to the routine. Every morning, he entered the small enclosure and helped groom and feed the six small dragons. Then he entered the much larger room where the other three dragons were housed. Lance and Velvet, Sambucus’s son and daughter, ed him, and they worked with Four, Six, and Eleven, the three larger reptiles. Chai had learned that only after reaching maturity would they be given names. At the moment, they were called by the order in which they’d hatched. Lance worked with Four, Velvet with Six, and Chai and Eleven were partners. He put down his utensils and prepared to clear the table. Velvet and Lance had eaten quickly and were busy rearranging the storage room. Tomorrow, the supply boat was scheduled to arrive with the provisions they’d need for the next four weeks. They anticipated a larger delivery since they’d begun working with Four, Six, and Eleven, moved them to larger quarters, and watched them grow. Once they’d learned to communicate by thought with the three dragons, they’d moved them from their cramped quarters to this room that spanned the entire back of the facility. Cha had learned that the dragons quickly increased in size to accommodate their larger surroundings. In just one day, they’d become twice as big. Today, Eleven told him she’d like to try flying with him, and now that dinner was finished, he cleaned his dishes and headed down the hallway to the doors that led into the dragon’s accommodations. He knocked on the door before pushing it open. He’d also learned that if you startled the dragons, they tended to let forth a burst of flame. “Cha,” Eleven said. “I knew you’d come.” The dragon was at least a dozen feet long. Her leathery wings were folded at her side, and her gray-green scales glowed. Her head sprouted two pairs of horns, and behind them a tall fringe rose. She swiveled her golden eyes toward him and blinked. “Are you ready?” Cha nodded. “I’m ready.”

Four and Six stuck their heads out of their individual compartments and watched with amusement as Cha seated himself behind Eleven’s fringe. Slowly, she lowered it until it secured Cha’s legs. Here we go! Cha heard her in his mind as clearly as if she had spoken. Eleven bunched her legs beneath her, spread her wings, and launched into the air. With a few powerful strokes, she reached the far end of the room, pirouetted, and flew back to the other end of the enclosure, where she glided to a stop on the floor. She released Cha’s legs, and he slid to the floor. “Unbelievable,” he said. “I had no idea you were that strong.” “I will get stronger. I am not yet full grown.” Four and Six slipped out of their rooms and ed their sister. “I have already given Velvet a ride,” Six said. “Tomorrow is Lance’s turn,” said Four. Cha massaged the spot between Eleven’s wings where he’d learned she liked to be rubbed. “Oh, that feels good.” A shiver ran down her wings. “Cha, why are we doing this? Why are you letting us grow, and why are you learning to ride?” He shrugged. “I know not. I was sent here by Elosha to see if we could learn to communicate with each other without words. As to why?” He shrugged again. Four leaned back on her haunches and stretched her neck. Her head nearly touched the ceiling. “If Elosha wills it, we will obey,” she said. “Aye,” said Six and Eleven. “He saved our mother after the Battle of Tihileitsoh,” Six said. Eleven flattened herself on the ground and raised her head.

“Cha, could we go outside and fly?” she said. “I don’t know. I’ll ask Lance. He knows much more about our mission than he has told me.” Cha looked at the huge tambour door at one end of the room. “It looks as if there is a way out.” “I would like to fly higher,” said Eleven. “The swamp smells terrible,” Cha said. “You would have to fly very high to get above the stench.” Eleven smiled. “Oh, I think I could fly high enough, even with you on my back.” Four and Six nodded. “I’ll ask Lance. Now, I’d better go help him in the storage room. Tomorrow, the supply boat should arrive.” He rubbed Eleven’s shoulders one more time. “Thank you for the ride.” “You’re welcome.” Eleven smiled. “You’ll put the room in order, and you’ll get to see Velvet.” Cha felt his face burn as he left the room.

Chapter 3

Captain Nakais raised his tsenil—the two-headed axe with its blood-red head— and brought his troops to a halt. There were thirty men under his command, all of them well-tested in battle. Half the men were skilled with sword and tsenil; half were archers. Nakais was a tall man, well over six feet, and barrel-chested. He had fought in the Obsidian Wars for over three decades and had developed a reputation as a no-nonsense leader. Abadon’s messenger had arrived three nights ago, commanding him to forces with those of Captain Nash Doitsoh. Nakais was not fond of Doitsoh. He found his lion head disconcerting. And Doitsoh had demonstrated impulsive behavior in the past, which usually meant the death of someone. Nevertheless, Nakais obeyed orders. He always had, and he always would. Without obedience, there was chaos. Nakais could see the spot, not far ahead, where Doitsoh and two other men were camped. Their cooking fire threw a circle of light into the gloom of dusk. Nakais gestured to his men to remain silent and still while he advanced on his wolac, to where Doitsoh was camped. The huge six-legged beast crept toward the campsite. “Captain,” Nakais called out when they were near the circle of light. Doitsoh sprang to his feet. “Who goes there?” he growled, as he unsheathed his sword with one hand, and withdrew his tsenil with the other. “Captain Nakais.” “And what is your business?” Doitsoh kept his weapons at the ready as the older soldier rode his wolac into the camp. “I have been commanded by Abadon to ally my men with yours.” His wolac knelt, and Nakais slipped to the ground. “They are waiting my command.” He gestured back down the trail. “How many?” Doitsoh sheathed his sword.

Nakais stepped forward and grasped Doitsoh’s forearm. “I have thirty men with me. We have been patrolling the road along the Sea of Tabass.” Doitsoh considered the situation. He had but five men, and three of them had traveled on to the bridge to Mount Litso. He was significantly outnumbered. He was about to refuse Nakais’s help when a troubling thought shook him. If Abadon has sent Nakais to help, then Abadon knows where we are and that we have not yet fulfilled his mission. He felt a shiver race down his spine. “Of course, we welcome your aid. Bring your men into camp.” “As you wish, Captain. Let me assure you we are here to help, and we consider ourselves under your command.” Nakais whistled three shrill notes, and within a few second his men rode into the camp. It took some time to tether the wolacs and provide the men with space to pitch their tents, but eventually all of them were gathered around several fires, preparing their evening meal. Nakais settled down next to Doitsoh. “What is your plan, Captain?” he said. “How much do you know of our quest?” “Only that you are pursuing some fugitives.” Doitsoh stroked his beard. He knew Abadon was loath to it anyone had ever escaped from his dungeons and felt he should reveal as little as possible. “There are three of them,” he said, “and they have proven elusive. Once, we captured them as they struggled across Shayeksten, but they escaped during a fierce storm. We have chased them around the blue mountain and through the forest, to Saond.” Nakais nodded. “What happened then?”

Nash shook his mane. “One of my men turned traitor, and he led us on a wild goose chase while the three men escaped.” Nakais searched the faces of the men sitting by the fire. “Which one is the traitor?” Nash boomed a laugh. “He lies in Shayeksten. Undoubtedly, by this time, buried beneath the sands. He will mislead us no more.” They sat in uncomfortable silence for a few moments. Nakais said, “So where do we go from here?” Doitsoh stood from the log on which he’d been seated and took Nakais by the arm. The two of them walked a short distance down the trail. The moon had risen and was reflecting off the surface of the Sea of Tabass. “There,” Doitsoh pointed, “is the Bay of Nihlini. It is one of two places they can dock their boat. The other is in the harbor of the yellow mountain itself. I propose we send half your troops down the trail to the bridge that s Mount Litso to the mainland, while the other half remains here. I already have three men stationed at the bridge.” He neglected to mention that he and his two soldiers had depleted their food and were planning to abandon their camp and the men at the bridge the next morning. “That seems like a sound plan,” Nakais replied. “You are sure they are crossing Tabass?” Doitsoh nodded. “Because of the treachery in my ranks, they may have reached Litso already. Even if they have, this will cut off any chance of escape. Once they finish their mission on Mount Litso, they will have to either cross the Sea of Tabass to this harbor, or travel across the bridge. Of course, the harbor is next to the bridge, so if we have both points covered, they cannot escape.” Nakais nodded. “Then, in the morning, we’ll send half the men to the bridge.” Doitsoh turned to head back to the camp. “They have proven as slippery as

salamander slime. But I see no way they can escape now.”

Chapter 4

Tsalix looked up at the moon. After saying goodbye to Sambucus, the three of them continued on to the village of Chushka, where they stopped at an inn for dinner. The sun was sending rays of gold and scarlet into the clouds above the western hills when they finished their meal. They had traveled for nearly two hours since the sunset. It seemed prudent to travel by night, in the event that they came upon any of Abadon’s patrols. While there was little cover along the trail, they felt they could leave the path in the darkness and remain unobserved. Twice they had spotted campfires in the distance on the Plain of Wonadsi, to the north. To the south, Shayeksten was as dark as a despot’s heart. “We have made good time,” Kwercus said. “Aye.” Tsalix shifted his pack. “At this rate, we’ll reach the Tohkal River shortly after sunrise. I wonder what lies hidden?” Kwercus plunged one hand beneath his tunic and rubbed his fingers over the key that hung there. “I know not,” he said, “but I’m sure we’ll find out. All of the other gifts given us have proven useful.” Tsalix thought back to the purse Angelica had given him that had replaced the blue talisman in the cavern in Mount Tsood. He touched the vial labeled Wind that hung close to his heart. He stopped. In the distance, the three of them heard the high-pitched keening of a wolac. “Listen,” he whispered. They stood motionless on the trail, straining their ears. The squeal came again, followed by another. Tsalix motioned to the side of the trail, and the three young men hurried a hundred yards into the sands of Shayeksten, where they dropped to the ground. The moon was setting, and only faint starlight illuminated the trail.

Ten minutes went by before a dozen wolacs and their riders ed by. One of the beasts reacted to the scent of the three in the desert and squealed. The caravan came to a halt. One of the soldiers struck flint and steel and lighted a torch, which he held high above his head. After scanning both sides of the trail and seeing nothing, he extinguished the torch, and the procession continued on their way. The three of them stayed motionless on the sand for a quarter of an hour, before rising to their feet, shaking off their clothing, and returning to the road. “That was close,” Tsalix whispered. “Thankfully, they didn’t see our footprints leading into the desert.” Kwercus shrugged. “We knew Abadon’s patrols were a possibility.” “It will be good to reach the river,” Asur said. Tsalix thought about it for a minute. “But we might find greater resistance there.” Kwercus said, “Perhaps.” They continued down the road, keeping vigilant as they traveled through the night. When the first rays of sunlight struck them, they still had five miles to travel to the river. Asur said, “Do we find someplace to hide, and wait until darkness?” Tsalix climbed a boulder that lay at the side of the trail. He could see no one ahead of them. Sunlight reflected from the river in the distance. “I think it is safe,” he replied. “Let’s proceed to the river.” An hour and a half later, they dropped their packs on the grass that bordered Tohkal. At this spot, all three major forks of the river had ed to form a roaring flow of water fifty-feet wide. Asur shuddered as he ed being carried down the river when he’d slipped trying to cross it on the trip back to Mount Jinee.

“It is wider here than where we crossed before,” he said. “Aye, but there is a bridge that crosses the river,” Kwercus said. “On my first journey to Mount Deschee, I followed the road from Aravah, to the south, and crossed the river. When you are ready, I’ll take us there.” After resting for a few minutes and eating a light meal, the three of them walked a quarter-mile upstream and around a bend, to where a sturdy bridge spanned the river. After crossing it, they started downstream toward the Sea of Tabass. They traveled down the trail without incident, until the sun was high overhead and the temperature rising. Tsalix led them into a grove at the side of the trail and dropped to the ground in the shade of the trees. “We are well hidden from the trail. Let’s eat our lunch before we go further.” The three friends could see into Shayeksten, the Desert of Desolation, and watch the dust devils swirl into the sky. “I am so glad we are not crossing that wasteland again.” Kwercus sighed. “Whatever lies ahead can’t match the misery we faced there.” The coolness of the glade was enticing, and they’d walked the entire night before. Soon, the three of them had fallen asleep. Tsalix awoke and struggled to where he was. The last fleeting rays of sunlight illuminated the desert sands on the other side of the river. He awakened his companions. “It is time to move on.” The three stood, stretched and yawned before continuing their journey. When they had traveled down the path for two hours, and darkness enveloped them, Kwercus felt the bronze key against his breast beginning to vibrate. He slipped the leather thong from around his neck and watched in the moonlight as the key pulsated and glowed in the darkness. Tsalix and Asur watched in amazement. “What is happening?” Asur said. Kwercus shook his head. “I know not. Let us continue on our journey and see what happens.”

With each step they took, the key began to vibrate more violently, until it stopped. As if it were steel being pulled to a magnet, the key tugged on its cord, to the side of the trail. The three men halted. “What now?” Tsalix said. Kwercus shook his head and stepped toward where the key pointed. He could see nothing different in the undergrowth that lined the trail, but with each step, the key tugged more urgently. Then it stopped. Kwercus knelt and ran his free hand through the tangle of grass and vines until he felt something solid beneath them. The key, hanging from his other hand, began swinging back and forth like a pendulum. Tsalix and Asur moved to Kwercus’s side. “What have you found?” Tsalix said. “Nothing, yet. Here, hold the key.” Kwercus handed him the leather thong. He then slipped the ax from his belt, and in a few moments was able to clear more of the foliage out of the way. The ax hit something hard that resounded like a gong. He scraped with his hands until he found what appeared to be a flat patch of iron under a scant inch of dirt. The more he uncovered, the more violently the key swung back and forth. He scraped away another patch, and the key practically sang it was moving so fast. That’s when Kwercus spotted the hole in the iron plate. Tsalix lowered the key. It quit swinging and strained to reach the hole. Kwercus grabbed the key and stuck it in the keyhole. He twisted it, and a door ten feet on each side popped open with such force Kwercus was knocked off his feet. He got up and ed his friends, gaping at what lay inside the hole. The only light came from the moon and stars overhead. As his eyes adjusted to the gloom, Asur stared in amazement. “A boat,” he said. “Who’d have hidden a boat here?” “I know not,” Tsalix said, “but it provides an easier path to the Sea of Tabass, I warrant.” He smiled.

A stout rope was attached to a fitting on the bow of the boat. Kwercus grabbed it, turned so it ran over his shoulder, while he dug his toes into the dirt and tried to pull the boat from its hiding place. It barely moved. Tsalix and Asur took places on either side of the boat and struggled to move it out of the ground. “On three,” Kwercus said. “One … two … three!” The boat moved a few inches. “Again. One … two … three.” It slid a few more inches out of the hole, then slipped backward to its resting place. “We’ll be here all night, at this rate,” Asur grumbled. “Patience,” Tsalix said. Kwercus lay on the ground, panting. He looked at the door that had sprung open, and saw a large metal ring welded to it, near its lip. An idea formed in his mind. “Help me close the door.” He pushed up to his feet. The three of them lay on top of the door, and slowly it began to close. When the edge was a foot from the ground, Kwercus jumped from the door; and while Tsalix and Asur held it in place, he threaded the rope tied to the bow of the boat through the welded ring and tied it. Then he climbed back onto the door with his friends. “Let’s see if we can close it,” he said. They inched closer to the open lip of the pit when the door shut in place with a click. “Let’s see if this works.” Kwercus stuck the key into the keyhole and turned it. Like before, the door sprang open, pulling the boat halfway out of the pit. “Let me untie it,” he said. “You two, get ready to push the boat the rest of the way out of the grotto.”

Asur and Tsalix slid down into the blackness of the pit and prepared to hold the boat in place while Kwercus untied the rope. To their surprise, when the rope was loosened, the boat fell forward onto the ground. The three men muscled the boat the remaining few feet into the river, where Kwercus secured it by tying the rope to a tree. “Now let’s see if it is seaworthy,” he said. “Who knows how long it might have moldered in the ground.” While they waited, Tsalix inspected the boat from the shore. The craft was about twenty-feet long. It had three thwarts, or seats, spanning the boat. A socket was set just behind the forward thwart. Lashed to the starboard side of the boat was a mast as long as the boat, with a sail wrapped around it. Lashed to the port side was the keel, heavy enough that it tilted the craft. As soon as they felt the boat was watertight, they threw their packs into the boat and prepared to board. But as soon as Tsalix slipped over the bow, the boat began to tip. He jumped back to safety. “We need to install the keel.” He pointed to where it was lashed to the boat. “Just how do we do that?” Kwercus said. “I know not. But I know it has to be done. It is the keel that keeps the boat upright.” “So it’s heavy, then.” “Aye.” The three of them inspected the keel, a large triangular piece of metal that was strapped to the side of the boat. One edge was T-shaped. Asur shuddered. “I don’t fancy going underwater to hook that to the boat.” “Nor I,” said Tsalix. “There must be a way.” The three of them sat on the bank of the river and searched for a solution. “I wonder how deep the river is,” Tsalix said.

Kwercus shrugged. “I can find out.” He hopped to his feet, moved to the side of the boat, and slid down into the water. Reached the bottom of the stream and slid his feet into the mud as the water soaked him to his chest. He gasped in the cold water, then pulled himself up on the bank, shivering. “That deep,” he said, through chattering teeth as he pointed to the water mark on his chest. “I have an idea,” Tsalix said. “Help me free the mast from its moorings. With careful maneuvering, they pulled the boat parallel to the shore and unfastened the mast and sail. “Remove the sail,” Tsalix said. A few minutes later, they had removed, inspected, and folded the sail. “Now, Asur climb into the boat while I steady it.” Asur threw one leg over the gunwale as Tsalix wrestled the bow of the boat. Asur slid into the boat and knelt on the floor of the craft. Once the boat stopped rocking, Tsalix said, “Kwercus, slide the mast to Asur.” Kwercus was still shivering, but he lifted the mast and slid it over the edge of the boat. Asur grabbed the bottom of the mast as Kwercus held the other end. “Asur, can you get the mast into the socket?” Tsalix said. “I’ll try.” It took a dozen tries before Asur was able to raise the mast to a vertical position and drop the bottom end into the socket. “It’s there!” he shouted. “There should be a strap attached to the thwart that will hold it in place,” Tsalix said.

Asur found a U-shaped metal strap hinged on one side of the mast. On the other side, a threaded bolt with a large wing nut stuck out of the thwart. He removed the nut, pulled the metal strap around the mast, and slid it over the bolt. Once it was seated, he used the wing nut to hold it in place. “All done,” he said. “See how firm it is,” Tsalix said. “Solid,” replied Asur. “Good. Throw our packs on the shore, and then climb out carefully.” Asur thew him their packs and slipped out over the bow. Without the weight of the mast and sail, the boat listed even further to the port side. Kwercus pulled his bedroll from his pack and wrapped himself in it, trying to get warm. He was still shivering. “What do we do now, Tsalix?” he said. “Now, we remove the keel.” He maneuvered the boat so that the port side was parallel to the shore. “It may take all three of us.” He grabbed the piece of rope that had held the mast to the starboard side, tied it around a cleat near the stern of the boat, and called out to Kwercus. “Are you warm enough to keep hold of this rope?” “I think so.” Kwercus extended his hands from the blanket and grabbed the rope. “Keep it tight.” Tsalix turned to the keel and began unlashing it. “Asur, come help hold it up.” After they untied the last rope, he and Asur lowered it to the ground. “This next part won’t be easy.” Kwercus was finally beginning to warm up. “What now, Tsalix?” he said. “Asur, I need you to get back in the boat.”

“At least it won’t be tipping to one side as much.” “At least not for a minute,” Tsalix said. Asur climbed back into the boat and waited until it stopped rocking. “It feels better.” Tsalix took a deep breath. “Asur, I need you to climb up the mast.” “What!” “I need you to shinny up the mast, slowly. If I’m right, the boat will begin to tip over. Once we can see the bottom, we’ll be able to install the keel.” “What will keep it from tipping all the way over?” Asur yelled. “You know I don’t know how to swim.” “Kwercus will. He’s going to hold onto this rope and keep it from tipping any further than we want it to.” Tsalix nodded at Kwercus, who was holding onto the rope. “And you’re going to climb slowly so we can adjust the tilt.” Asur wrapped his legs around the mast and began pulling himself up. Tsalix pushed with on the gunwale. Nothing happened at first, but when Asur was just over halfway up the post, the boat began to tip slightly. Asur gasped. “That’s the way,” Tsalix said. “Just a little higher.” Asur slid another foot up the mast, and the boat continued to tip further. Kwercus gripped the rope to keep it from capsizing. Asur pulled himself up another six inches, and the boat rolled on its side, with the gunwale just above the waterline. Kwercus dug his heels in and kept Asur from falling into the river. “Hold it!” Tsalix screamed. After a few shudders, the boat stabilized. A metal channel was bolted to the bottom of the craft. Tsalix grasped the keel, and with a Herculean effort, slid its T-shaped edge into the channel. It seated with a click. The boat began to right itself.

“Kwercus, let go!” he said. Kwercus released his grip on the rope, and the stern of the boat was caught by the current which turned the boat just enough, so the keel missed the bank and slipped into the water. Asur let out a cry of relief and slid down the mast. “I’m glad that’s over.” The boat rocked back and forth gently, in the river. Tsalix said, “I propose we wait until morning before we begin our voyage. It will take all of our prowess to stay in the channel, and trying it at night is foolish.” “Aye, and I might be warm by morning,” Kwercus said, through chattering teeth, and pulled his bedroll tighter around himself. “I’ll make sure the boat is secure,” Tsalix said. “Sleep well, my friends. Tomorrow, we have another challenge before us.”

Chapter 5

Captain Nakais stood beside the campfire in the weak light, before dawn, watching half his men head down the trail, toward Mount Litso. Five of his fifteen archers were included—ten remained behind. Nakais had slept fitfully, wondering what Captain Doitsoh had not shared with him. Doitsoh refused to say more about the fugitives he was pursuing. Regardless of how much Nakais probed, who they were and what they’d done remained a mystery. And yet the plan to capture the three men seemed wellthought-out. He looked out across the Bay of Nihlini, toward the sun barely peeking above the distant hills. The water was smooth as glass, and turquoise blue. Nakais raised his gaze and looked further out across the sea. In the distance, he could barely make out the dark blue that signaled the swirling Maelstrom of Tears. He shuddered. Three years before, he and his troops had been crossing Tabass in a sinael, a medium-sized boat outfitted with a sail that aided the twenty rowers on each side of the craft. The sail went slack as the wind died, and it took all the strength of the oarsmen to keep them from being sucked into the open maw of the whirlpool. Six times they had circled the mouth of the Maelstrom, caught by its whirling waters, before his men broke loose from its grip. The two ships behind him had not been so lucky, and in horror, he’d watched as they disappeared down the throat of the Maelstrom of Tears. There had been no survivors. Then, as his men gasped for breath beyond its swirling waters, the whirlpool began moving toward them, as if guided by a malevolent hand. Spurred on by pure terror, the rowers had pulled on their oars and gotten to safety. It was nothing he wanted to repeat. Behind him now, his men were finishing breakfast. “We need to keep a sharp eye for any boats moving into the bay.” He pointed to two of his men. “Take the first shift. Keep out of sight so you don’t spook our prey.” He pointed at two more men. “Second shift.” There seemed to be little else for the rest of the men to do. They were playing a waiting game.

Nash Doitsoh walked to Nakais’s side. “I see you have already deployed your men,” he said. “Aye. Fifteen of them are on their way to bolster your troops at the bridge to Mount Litso. I’ve assigned two men to watch the bay. Is there more you’d have us do?” Doitsoh thought for a moment. “Captain, I’m sure your men are men of action, and it will gall them to have to wait. But there is little else to do until we sight the scum we seek.” Nakais nodded. “Then we’ll rotate our lookout on short shifts and give the other men time to themselves.” Nash nodded and turned to walk away. “Captain, who are these men we seek?” Nakais called after him. “What is it they’ve done? It will help us know what we are up against.” Doitsoh stroked his beard while he contemplated how much to reveal. “Nakais, do you know the legend of the Scepter of Power?” Nakais shrugged. “It is said it lies on Mount Destiny—the Glittering Peak.” Doitsoh waited for more. “It is said no man can remove it from the mountain.” Doitsoh nodded. “Unless they have the three talismans.” “What? I know nothing of this.” “It would be well that this is kept between the two of us. There are three talismans—one on each of the three other sacred mountains.” “Litso, Tsood, and Jinee?” “Aye.”

“What are these talismans?” Doitsoh shrugged. “No one knows.” Nakais waited for Doitsoh to continue. “The three must be collected—recovered—in a specific order. I believe our three fugitives have found the talismans on Mount Jinee and Mount Tsood.” “And the next one is one Mount Litso?” “Aye. Which is why that must be their destination.” Nakais nodded. “And who are these three men we seek?” Doitsoh shook his mane. “They are three of Elosha’s appointed ones.” Nakais recoiled. “I thought they all had been eliminated.” “It appears these three survived somehow. Three who should have been in the village of Aravah when it was burned to the ground.” Doitsoh shook his mane and growled. “They were pursued up Mount Jinee, but somehow disappeared. Then we captured them crossing Shayeksten, as I told you before. During a fierce windstorm, they escaped while we were fighting to keep our tents and wolacs safe.” Nakais nodded. “And you suspect they found the talisman on Mount Tsood?” “Aye. And for some unknown reason, carried it into Saond. The next logical step would be to travel by boat to Mount Litso. Whether they are there already, I know not. Regardless, there are only two ways to the mountain—by sea, or over the bridge. We have both well-covered.” Nakais raised one brow. “Unless they returned to Saond.” Doitsoh head jerked up. “Captain, you raise an interesting alternative.” He spun around and looked back at camp. “We have sixteen men with us. Perhaps we should send half of them back to the gate that leads from Saond.” “That seems wise.”

“Select eight for that mission.” “Aye, Captain. Might I suggest I go with them?” Doitsoh stroked his beard. “Excellent. Once we capture them, regardless of where, we’ll send a runner to bring all of us back together.” Nakais nodded again. “I’ll take eight with me and leave eight for you.” “Good hunting,” Doitsoh replied. Nakais selected eight of his men—five of them archers—and prepared to march back along the trail toward Saond.

Chapter 6

Tsalix flexed his back. The task of the night before had left his muscles stiff and sore. The sun was climbing over the distant hills as he awakened Kwercus and Asur. “Time to begin our voyage.” Within a few minutes, they had eaten breakfast and cleaned the camp. “Perhaps we’d better close the door.” He pointed at the open cavern from which they’d retrieved the boat. The three of them approached the door. With daylight illuminating it, the previous night’s task seemed even more improbable. “Look, there’s more in the pit.” Asur slid down the side of the opening and handed up two sets of oars, a boom to secure the sail, and the boat’s rudder. “It’s lucky we didn’t continue on our way last night and leave these behind.” Kwercus nodded as he threw his weight against the door, trying to close it. It didn’t budge. “I need your help,” he called out. When Asur and Tsalix added their weight, the door began to close slowly. Finally, it fell into place with a click. The three men scraped dirt and debris over the door until it was hidden from a casual view. Then they stowed the oars and dropped the rudder into place. Asur and Tsalix climbed into the boat while Kwercus untied the rope that held the craft against the shore. He threw it over the bow and leapt in. “We need to fix the sail before we go too far.” Asur took a deep breath and began scaling the mast, dragging the sail behind him. He attached it to its fittings while Tsalix and Kwercus steadied the boat. Slowly, it slid away from the bank and began drifting down the river. Kwercus fixed an oar on each side of the boat while Tsalix manned the tiller. They reached the middle of the river, where the current was much stronger. Their

speed increased tremendously. Asur attached the boom to the mast and tied the bottom of the sail to it. The canvas filled and drove them even faster toward the sea. “This is much better than walking.” He smiled. “As long as we don’t run aground,” Tsalix said. “Keep an eye out for us, Asur.” Asur moved to the bow of the boat and called out directions to Tsalix, while Kwercus manned the sail. The river was strong and deep and moved in gentle curves. “How far is it to the Sea of Tabass?” said Asur. “Well-nigh two hundred miles,” Tsalix said. “Even at this pace, it will take us a full day of sailing to reach it.” “And even though we have had no problems navigating the river,” Kwercus said, “I think we need to stop when it gets dark.” He shifted the boom to take advantage of the wind. Tsalix nodded. “You’re right. It would do us no good to damage the boat before we reach the sea.” He leaned on the tiller. As the day grew warmer, the breeze died down until the sail hung slack. Still, they made good time flowing with the current. Occasionally, Kwercus pulled on the oars to help Tsalix move them into a more favorable spot. The banks of the river were covered with a heavy tangle of willows and reeds. They could see an abundance of fish through the clear water. Above them, puffy clouds sailed across the sky. When the sun was overhead, they guided the boat into a cove on an inside bend of the river, anchored it, and ate lunch. “Once we reach the sea, what is our plan?” Kwercus stretched his back. Tsalix replied, “We sail across the Sea of Tabass to Mount Litso and find the talisman.” “Obviously. But how do we do that? What about the Maelstrom of Tears?”

“We’ll just have to stay away from it. If we set our sights directly on the yellow mountain, we shouldn’t have any trouble.” Tsalix took a deep breath. The rest of the day proved peaceful and as night approached, they sought shelter on a small island in the middle of the river, crowned by a solitary cottonwood. Enough small branches had broken from the tree to provide wood for a fire. They cooked their dinner and prepared their bed rolls as the moon glowed in the sky. “You know…” Tsalix yawned. “This is the first day on our quest that has been free of problems.” “Aye,” said Asur. “I hope tomorrow is the same.” The night ed quickly, and when dawn broke, the three young men were ready to continue their voyage. The slope of the land was gentler, and the river was wider and shallower. It required more navigational skill to stay in the channel and avoid damaging the boat. Late in the afternoon, Asur called out, “I think I see the sea ahead.” A half-hour later, he was proven right as the bay came into view. Kwercus pulled on the oars to keep them in the middle of the river, which had spread out across a wide delta. To his left, he could see a pier that jutted out into the water. Tsalix tugged on the tiller to guide them toward it, when an arrow struck the mast just above his head, while others fell into the water at the side of their boat. Kwercus spotted the men as they stepped out of the trees on the other side of the bay. “I see nine men,” he yelled. “Take us away from the pier.” Tsalix pulled on the tiller, and Kwercus dipped the oars into the water while Asur adjusted the sail. In seconds, they were out into the middle of the bay, far beyond the reach of any archer. When he was certain they were safe, Kwercus reached up and pulled the arrow out of the mast. It was fletched with the black and scarlet feathers of Abadon. Tsalix watched as the men on shore raced along the trail that led to Mount Litso. He adjusted the rudder, so they sailed further away from the shore.

“It seems we were expected,” he said. “Aye,” said Kwercus. “And that might mean we are expected at Litso.” “If I am not mistaken, one of those men had a lion head.” Tsalix took a deep breath. “I think Captain Doitsoh has not given up capturing us. I knew it wouldn’t stay peaceful for long.” He stood and held onto the mast with one hand while he stretched his sore back again. Kwercus watched him and frowned. “Are you all right?” “Just a bit stiff from lifting the keel. I thought I’d be fine today, but it’s still sore.” “Lie down and rest. I don’t think we’ll need the oars out on Tabass. I’ll take the tiller and Asur can keep us moving.” With a nod, Tsalix stretched out on the middle thwart and looked up past the tip of the mast. The sail was blocking the sun as he struggled to relax his back. He closed his eyes, until a few minutes later, he felt the sun on his face. He shifted to get back into the shade, but a few moments later, the sun shone on his face again. A third time, he found shade, only to have the sun strike him in the face. All at once, he realized what was happening. “Kwercus!” he said. “We’re traveling in a circle.” Kwercus looked back over his shoulder, expecting to see the bay behind him. Instead, he saw Mount Litso. Confusion filled his face until realization struck. “We’re in the Maelstrom of Tears!” Despite his sore back, Tsalix grabbed oars and began rowing frantically, while Asur moved the boom to catch the wind in the sail. They began to move faster and faster in a circle. Asur looked over the port side and saw the dark-blue center of the whirlpool less than a half-mile away. He struggled with the boom, but suddenly there was no resistance as the sail fell flat. He grabbed the other pair of oars and helped Tsalix row. Kwercus leaned on the tiller, trying to guide them out of the throat of the Maelstrom.

“We’re never going to make it.” He gasped. “It’s too strong.” The circle grew smaller and smaller, and their speed faster and faster as they approached the center of the whirlpool. Asur looked up at the slack sail. “Where is the wind?” He wheezed. Tsalix felt something thumping against his chest. Like a lightning bolt, the answer sprang into his mind. “Asur!” he yelled. “Tell me when we’re pointed toward the mountain.” He pulled the vial from under his tunic and prepared to open its lid. “Now!” Asur yelled. Tsalix popped the lid from the vial and was thrown back off his seat when the gust of wind flew out of its neck. The sail filled, and the boat was jerked from the whirlpool and sent streaming through the water toward Mount Litso. Behind them, the Maelstrom of Tears roared.

Chapter 7

“Fools!” Nash hollered, beside himself with anger. “How could you miss them?” “They were too far away, and moving too quickly,” one of the archers replied. “Besides, we were waiting for them to come from the sea, not the river.” “We had them in our grasp,” Nash roared, “and again they slipped through. Quick! We’ll follow them to Mount Litso.” He grabbed a soldier by his arm. “You, ride to Saond and have Captain Nakais us at the bridge.” They sprinted back to camp, gathered their tents, and minutes later were riding their wolacs down the trail toward Mount Litso. “How can they keep eluding us?” Nash muttered. “Three young men should provide no challenge for my men. Yet they keep escaping.” They rode on in silence as the gloom of dusk gathered around them. To their left, the Sea of Tabass crashed against the cliffs that rose steeply from the shore. It seemed that the sea itself was angry. Could they have perished in the Maelstrom of Tears? If so, we are on a fool’s mission. But how will we know? The moon rose behind them and cast its wan glow over the landscape. The trail entered a forest, and soon it was too dark to see more than a few feet in front of them. “Halt,” Nash called out. “We will camp here and prepare to continue on to the bridge in the morning.” The men pitched the tents and built a fire. Nash wandered through the trees until he stood on the edge of the precipice. Beneath him, he could hear the waves pounding upon the unyielding rock. Clouds had gathered and obscured the moon, but occasionally a beam broke through and illuminated the whitecaps below. To his side, a log jutted out over the cliff. Nash straddled the log. “Tomorrow, we’ll arrive at the bridge and harbor. That is where they must put in if they are going to reach Litso.” He shifted on the log. “My master must be wondering why it has taken so long to bring him the three fugitives. I cannot fall

out of favor with him if my plan is to be fulfilled.” He had felt the wrath of Abadon when it was discovered that he and his men had been outmaneuvered by Johona, when the miners had revolted at Hagade. He had returned to the throne room and confessed his losses. Abadon had given him this assignment to redeem himself. This was his last chance to find favor with the black prince. His mind raced back to his home in Saond. He had failed in his attempt to dispose of his father and brother and become king of Saond. Now it appeared the Obsidian Wars were about to end. He was confident that Abadon would defeat his brother, Johona. Abadon had more troops, and they were better trained. When the war was over, as a trusted servant, Nash would be in a position to slay Abadon and become ruler of the kingdom. Then he would wage war against Saond and unite the two kingdoms under his rule. He wore an evil smile as he gazed over the restless sea. “I hope they were not drowned in the whirlpool,” he whispered. “If so, there will be no bodies to bring back to Abadon.” Strange to be hoping his foes had survived. I’m sure they did. They seem to be protected by some unseen hand. A thought flickered through his mind. Not only must they survive the Maelstrom of Tears, we must also capture them before they meet Tsoapittse. If not, they will be doomed, and nothing will be left to return to Abadon. Nash arose from the log and headed back to camp. We’ll be on our way at daybreak. We cannot fail. He curled up on his cot and was soon asleep.

Chapter 8

“Lance, Eleven wants to fly outside the enclosure,” Cha said. “What do you think?” Lance turned to his sister. “Velvet, is it time?” “Let’s wait another few days. They are nearly full-grown now.” Cha nodded. “I think Eleven is going to want a definite day. You know how persistent she is.” Lance gnawed on is lower lip. “Two days. Tell her that in two days you’ll take her for a flight outside the compound.” Velvet nodded. “My only concern is that you will be seen by Abadon’s men.” Cha nodded his head. “That would be a concern. But I’m sure we can fly where we won’t be spotted. I can’t believe how big they’ve grown.” He smiled. “And they were so easy to train.” Velvet beamed. “It was almost as if they were waiting for us to learn how to talk to them without words.” Lance took a bite of his dinner. “Sometimes I think they are training us just as much as we are training them.” When dinner was finished, Velvet and Lance cleaned the dishes and put them away. Cha headed to the back of the building and knocked on the door. He pushed it open slowly and entered the room. Eleven stuck her head out of her room. “Cha, I am happy we will go flying in two days.” He knit his brow. “How did you know that?” “You must have been thinking it. How high do you want to fly?” “I really hadn’t thought about it.” “I know. Or I’d have heard you.” She chuckled.

Cha rubbed the dragon between her shoulder blades. “I’ll leave it to you, Eleven. You take us as high as you’d like.” “It might frighten you,” she purred. “Are you afraid of heights?” “A little. But I trust you, Eleven.” “Would you like to fly around the room?” “Of course.” He slid one leg over the dragon’s neck, and she clamped his legs with her crest. Cha took hold of two of her four horns. “Ready,” he said. With a burst of energy, the gray-green dragon leapt from the floor. Cha had to duck as they approached the ceiling. Eleven flew back and forth, from one end of the room to the other, before she returned to the floor. “Either you’re losing weight, or I’m getting stronger.” Cha laughed. “I don’t think I’m getting any smaller.” He slid from her back and stood beside the dragon. “You amaze me, Eleven. You are so strong and so smart.” “Yes, I am.” She chortled. “Don’t you forget it.” Cha rubbed her between her wings. “Eleven, when we fly outside the building, if you fly toward the Plain of Wonadsi, I am afraid you will be seen by those who do not understand you. People think all the dragons are gone.” “That is wise council, Cha. We will fly to the east, outside the kingdom. And we will fly high enough that if anyone sees us, they will think they are seeing a bird, and that will get us above the stench of the swamp.” Cha gave her one more rub on her back before he said goodnight. Once he left the room, the three dragons gathered.

“Two days, and I’ll go flying with Cha.” Eleven smirked. “How long will it take you two to get outside?” Four flexed her wings. “Once you and Cha, leave I’m sure Lance and Velvet will follow.” “Don’t be so sure,” Eleven said. “They don’t seem as adventurous as Cha.” Six scratched her nose with a front foot. “What is this all about?” she said. “We’ve lived here for a long time with our sisters, and never have we been allowed to grow to full size until Cha arrived. Why?” Four folder her wings. “Do you think the humans know?” Eleven shook her head. “No. Or we’d have been able to read their minds. You know, I asked Cha, and he said it was Elosha’s will.” The other two dragons purred their agreement. “I think that is all they know,” Four said. “Sometimes we just have to have patience until the plan is revealed.” “Well, while we wait, I’m going to take Cha for a ride he’ll never forget,” said Eleven. “I’ve often wondered what lies to the east of the swamp. And in two days, I’m going to find out.” Four chuckled. “Ask Mother. She can tell you what you’ll be able to see.” Eleven nodded and expanded her mind to make with her mother.

Chapter 9

The boat skimmed across the surface of the sea as the wind filled her sails. It was almost as if the wind had a mind of its own. No matter how hard Tsalix pulled on the tiller, the boat sped toward the yellow mountain. The wake behind them churned as they flew forward with the bow cutting cleanly through the water. An hour ed, and Mount Litso loomed ahead of them. “How will we stop?” Kwercus shouted, over the wind, while seated on the middle thwart, holding the oars above the water. Tsalix abandoned the tiller and sat behind Kwercus. “I know not.” He picked up the second set of oars, placed them in the oar locks, and held the blades above the rushing sea. Asur fought his way forward until he was crouched in the bow. “There is a lagoon ahead,” he yelled. “That is where the wind seems to be taking us.” Tsalix pulled himself to his feet, grabbing the mast to steady himself, and looked where Asur was pointing. He could see breakers crashing against the underwater reef that protected the lagoon. “Can you see a age into the lagoon?” he hollered. Asur squinted into the setting sun. “I see none.” The boat surged forward as the wind’s force increased. The waves crashing on the reef churned more violently. Tsalix could see no way to through the reef. He lurched backward, grabbed the tiller, and struggled to alter the course of their craft, but to no avail. When he could see the crash was imminent, he yelled, “Hold on to something! We’re going to hit the reef.” Asur grabbed the bow with both hands. Kwercus grasped the thwart he was

sitting on, and Tsalix gripped the tiller. The boat crashed into the reef and opened a gash the length of the craft. Water streamed in as the wind died. Screaming, Asur was flung forward out of the boat and into the lagoon. Tsalix and Kwercus were thrown like rag dolls against the mast. The craft began to sink beneath their feet, and the undertow began pulling it back into deeper waters. They pushed past the collapsed sail, grabbed their weapons, and jumped over the reef, into the lagoon. The water was warm and calm, and only shoulder-deep. They watched as the boat, with all their provisions, rolled over and sank out of sight on the other side of the reef. The last rays of sun painted the clouds pink and gold. Mount Litso loomed like a giant hand with its fingers sticking into the air. The three men turned away from the reef and slogged toward the beach. “Are you all right?” Tsalix said to the other two. “Bruised and sore,” Kwercus replied. “But I’ll survive.” Asur nodded. “I can’t swim. I was afraid I’d drown.” The lagoon formed a circle about three hundred yards in diameter. A multitude of fish darted through the water in front of them. When they finally reached the beach, they discovered it was only ten-feet wide, and made of coarse sand strewn with pebbles. The odor of rotten eggs greeted them. Two palm trees had wedged into the crumbling side of the mountain. Other than that, there was no foliage. With the setting sun, the night was growing colder. Their wet clothing did not help. “We need to find shelter,” Tsalix said, through chattering teeth. “Or a fire,” said Asur. “There are some dead palm fronds beneath the trees,” Tsalix said. “But we have no way to start them on fire. My flint and steel sank with my pack.” “Then we’d better seek shelter.” Kwercus began moving toward the west end of the beach. He had not gone more than a quarter-mile before the beach ended. A steaming spring—the source of the sulfurous stench—poured into the ocean, and beyond it, the flank of Mount Litso plunged straight into the sea. There was no way to

continue in that direction. He jogged back to where Tsalix and Asur had gathered the dead fronds and were trying to strike a spark between two stones on the beach. “There’s no way to on that side,” Kwercus said. “I’ll try this way.” “We’ll you,” said Tsalix. “These stones are too soft to make a spark. They crumble when we strike them.” Shivering, the three of them crossed the beach until they came to a narrow trail that led them around Mount Litso. It was only a few feet above the water, and as waves washed in, they sprayed water on the path, making it slippery. “Be careful,” Tsalix said. Single file, they plodded along the trail. An hour ed, and the moon rose, sending silvery light over the churning sea. They still had found no shelter. Other than the two palm trees they’d left, they saw no plant growth on the mountain side. Their clothing was drying and was stiff with salt from the Sea of Tabass. At length, they came to a wide spot in the trail, and Tsalix slumped down. “It’s time for a rest,” he said. “How far have we come?” said Asur. “Perhaps three miles,” Tsalix replied. “There must be some place to spend the night. It is said that people live on Mount Litso.” “What kind of people?” Asur said. “Friendly or not?” Tsalix shrugged. “I know not. I know very little about this mountain. Not much is said about it. Everyone is secretive.” “At least I’m not quite as cold,” Kwercus said. “I suppose we might as well keep moving.” “Aye,” Tsalix replied. “I wish this trail were not so slippery. It makes us travel more slowly than I’d like.” He heaved himself to his feet. “I’ll take the lead for a while.”

Another hour ed before the trail began to climb up the side of the hill. After ascending a few dozen feet, it leveled off. Well above the height of the waves, the trail was dry and allowed them to move faster. It made a sharp turn around an outcropping and revealed a broad valley that sloped to the edge of the Sea of Tabass. A waterfall dropped from the side of the yellow mountain, into a pool from which a stream exited and crossed the meadow to the sea. The three of them dropped to their knees at the side of the stream and guzzled from it. The water was cold and had only the slightest taste of minerals. Clouds covered the moon and shrouded the valley in shadow. Asur squatted back on his heels. “This seems to be a pleasant place.” The moon broke through the clouds and illuminated a grove of trees a hundred yards on the other side of the stream. Asur stood, jumped across the stream, and moved toward the trees. “Someone must live here,” he said, over his shoulder. “This is an orchard, and it is well-tended. There are no weeds around the trunks of these trees.” Kwercus and Tsalix ed him. “It is a shame it’s too early for fruit,” said Asur. “Aye,” Tsalix replied. “It’s forming, but it’s a long time from being ripe. Smell the blossoms.” The trees were spaced broadly and evenly, so the three men were able to move easily through the orchard. When they emerged from the other side, in the dim moonlight they spotted a large house built against the hillside. “Perhaps we’ve found shelter,” Kwercus said. “If they’re friendly,” said Tsalix. They climbed the slope to the house. The front door was over twenty-feet high, and the door handle far above their heads. “Perhaps there is a stable where we could spend the night,” Asur said, with a quivering voice.

They moved around the house and found a barn. The door was partly open, and the three slipped inside. Although it was too dark to see much of anything, there was the comforting sound of animals nuzzling the hay. Then the clouds parted, and moonlight streamed in through a window. Soon, the three of them had found a spot in an empty stall, where they burrowed under the hay and fell asleep.

Chapter 10

Nash Doitsoh reached the bridge that led from the mainland to Mount Litso. He and his men had made good time after they’d seen their prey sail down the Tohkal River, into the Sea of Tabass. They found the rest of their troops waiting in a secluded glen where the bridge could be kept under constant surveillance. Soon, they’d found a place where their wolacs could forage for food, and where their tents could be erected without being seen from the bridge. In the light of the setting sun, Nash stared across the shallow water, at the imposing peak that rose from the Sea of Tabass. From this side, the top of the mountain resembled five organ pipes—the tallest in the middle, flanked by two shorter ones on each side. Below these magnificent columns, the mountain flared out and was circled by three nearly flat benches that ran around the foothills. At some point, much of the mountain had been underwater, and as the ocean receded, it paused long enough at each of these three levels to leave the remnants of a sandy beach. Nash knew that on the northeast side of the mountain, resting on the lowest bench, was the house of the only family living on Mount Litso—Tsoapittse, his wife Coapiccan, and their three sons. Nash shuddered as he thought of how these five had withstood a multitude of attacks over the years, and regardless of how outnumbered they’d been, had always come out victorious. He respected their privacy and their power. Nash studied the narrow bridge. Although the water was only four or five feet deep at low tide, it rose until it lapped the underside of the bridge when the tide was in. At the moment, the span was about ten feet above the water. It stretched for a quarter-mile across the shallow bay. On the south side of the bridge, a harbor had been dredged, and Tsoapittse’s barge was tethered to one of the bridge’s s. It was Mount Litso’s only harbor. The rest of the mountainsides plunged into the sea. Two shallow lagoons existed on the far side of the mountain, but neither had a age through the reefs that created and protected them. This is the only place they can land their boat, and we are here to meet them with overwhelming force. They cannot escape. Nash shook his mane and spun around to returned to camp. Dinner was being

readied, and he sat down with his men. “The boat has not been seen?” he said. “Nay,” the men replied. “We have kept a secure watch.” “Captain, how long until Captain Nakais s us?” said one of the archers. “Tomorrow, I suspect. He had a longer way to come. But tomorrow, I expect him to arrive. Why?” “No reason. We have been together as a band for nearly three years, and it feels a little empty without the rest of our men.” “Three years!” Nash said. “Where has that three years taken you?” “We fell under Captain Nakais’s command at the edge of the Swamp of Miasma —a horrible place, if I do say so—and spent nearly six months patrolling its border.” The archer wrinkled his nose. “One never gets used to the smell.” “Did you see much action?” “Aye. We had skirmishes with six or seven of Johona’s bands.” “And did you have success?” The archer shrugged. “We won some, we lost some. It is often hard to tell. Sometimes we gained ground, sometimes we lost. You know how it goes, Captain.” Nash nodded. “And then where did you serve?” “We left Miasma and spent the next two years patrolling the Plain of Wonadsi.” “With similar success?” “I suppose so. It seems as if the individual battles often end in a draw—both sides withdraw from the battle ground. Johona’s soldiers are hard to figure out. They seem to want to drive our forces away, but they don’t seem keen on killing.”

“They are cowards. A foul breed, as is their leader. It will be well when we drive them from the kingdom and Abadon rises to power.” Nash ran his hands through his mane. And I will dispose of him and become the rightful ruler of this land. “For the last six months, we’ve patrolled the road that borders Shayeksten. Another awful place.” Nash nodded. “It will be good to finish this mission and let you get back to your patrolling. I fear the conflict will escalate in the next short time. Abadon is drawing his men together and readying them to mount an assault on Johona’s forces. I cannot see how he can fail. Our forces are so much better disciplined than Johona’s.” “I hope you are right, Captain. I tire of the years of fighting.” “As do I. It is time we restored order and discipline to the land.” The archer rose to his feet. “Forgive me, Captain. It is time for me to relieve the watchman.” He stepped out of the circle of firelight and disappeared down the trail. Nash finished his meal and handed his tin plate to one of the soldiers to clean. He stepped through the rows of tents to the rear of the camp, where his tent had been erected. After entering, he closed the flaps and sat on the edge of his cot. Nakais arrives tomorrow, and we continue our waiting game. Unless they arrive tonight.

Chapter 11

Kwercus awoke to the sounds of cattle stirring in their stalls. He stood and brushed the hay from his clothing. His tunic was still salt-stiffened, but at least it was dry. He awakened his companions and slipped the handle of his axe through his belt. Tsalix girded himself with the Sword of Sonakih. In the light of dawn, they could see the cattle—a large herd. Disturbed by the three men, the cows began mooing. Before they could be discovered, the men slipped out of the barn and returned to the front of the house. Tsalix stared at the enormous door. A dozen feet high was the door latch. Six feet above the latch was a wrought iron ring that served as a door knocker. “There’s no way to reach that ring without a ladder,” he said. “Perhaps we can find a stone and make enough noise to be heard.” He searched in the undergrowth until he found a stone half the size of his head. He picked it up with both hands and returned to the door to bang the rock against it. He was greeted with hollow echoes. He tried again, with the same results. “It seems that no one’s home.” “Asur, if you stand on my shoulders,” Kwercus whispered, “I think you can reach the latch.” “I’ll steady you.” Tsalix intertwined his fingers and created a step for Asur. With a little shifting and grunting, he made it to Kwercus’s shoulders. The latch was just above his head. He grabbed it with both hands and pulled down. With a snap, the lock opened and the door began to swing into the house. Asur jumped down to the ground. “Hello,” Tsalix called. “Anybody home?” It seemed as if his voice was swallowed up in the enormous hall. He stepped through the doorway, into an entry hall nearly fifty-feet square. A chandelier made of a wagon wheel, ten feet in diameter, hung from the ceiling.

Three dozen candles were arranged around the rim. None of them were lit. A cupboard sat against the far wall, its shelf a dozen feet from the floor. The three men stepped through the room and entered the kitchen. Behind them, the door swung shut. A table loomed over their heads. Six chairs surrounded the table, the seats of the chairs higher than any of them could reach. “The occupants of this house must be very large,” Tsalix said. He saw a loaf of bread the size of a large dog, lying on the counter. His stomach began to rumble, and he realized they had not eaten since lunch yesterday. “Do you think they’d mind if we had a small piece of bread?” He put his shoulder to the leg of one of the chairs and moved it across the floor, to the side of the counter. He put one foot on a rung and vaulted onto the seat, reached up as far as he could, and touched the end of the loaf of bread. “Help me,” he called out. Kwercus scaled the chair leg and ed Tsalix on the chair seat. He knelt on all fours. “Climb on my back and see if you can reach the bread.” Tsalix stepped up onto Kwercus’s back and grasped the end of the loaf. He tugged on it until the heel of the loaf fell onto the seat. He slid another slice of bread off the counter before he stepped down from Kwercus’s back. “That should be plenty.” Each slice of bread was larger than a dinner plate, and a half-foot thick. “I don’t suppose there’s any jam?” Asur smiled. “Don’t get greedy,” Tsalix said. “Just be glad you have something to fill your stomach.” He and Kwercus climbed down from the chair, and the three of them sat on the floor, pulling the soft center from the crust, and thrusting it into their mouths.

The kitchen door flew open, and the three of them stared at the enormous person who filled the doorway. “I thought I heard something.” The giant tilted his head “Who are you?” He reached down and plucked Kwercus from the floor with his gigantic hand, and held him, wriggling, in front of his face. Asur and Tsalix scrambled to their feet. But before they could escape, the giant grabbed them with his other hand. He set all three of them on the table. “Daddy! Look what I found.” He kept one hand cupped behind them to prevent escape, while with the other he used to scratch his head. A moment later, an even larger man burst through the doorway. He was clothed in only a loincloth. “Hatali!” he bellowed. “Why did you wake me?” “Daddy, look what I found.” The elder giant knelt on the floor and inspected the three young men trapped on the tabletop. A horrible grin spread across his face. “Well, look what we have here.” He extended his finger and pushed against Kwercus’s chest, scooting him back against Hatali’s hand. Kwercus struggled to free his axe, and when the giant released the pressure, Kwercus pulled it from his belt and waved it around his head. The giant roared with laughter. “Such a brave one.” He chortled as Kwercus brought the blade down on the hand that held them captive. The younger giant moved his hand just before the axe struck. “I don’t think you’ll be needing that.” The kneeling giant plucked the axe out of Kwercus’s hand with his thumb and forefinger, then pointed at Tsalix. “Nor will you need your sword.” He rested the back of his hand on the table in front of Tsalix.

Tsalix considered trying to stab the giant’s hand, but after watching Kwercus being disarmed, he realized it was useless. He drew the sword from its scabbard and laid it on the giant’s open palm. It was shorter than the man’s little finger. “I am forgetting my manners.” He rose to his feet. “I am Tsoapittse, ruler of Mount Litso. This is my son Hatali. Who are you?” Tsalix pushed to his feet. “I am Tsalix, born to the Silverthorn clan, and for the Sweetwater clan.” “A Silverthorn,” Tsoapittse said. “How remarkable.” He pointed at Kwercus. “And you are?” “Kwercus, born to the Strongheart clan, and for the Bitter root clan.” “Hmm.” Tsoapittse nodded toward Asur. “I am Asur Longtooth—” Two more gigantic boys pushed through the doorway. “Ah, these are my other two sons, Sesna and Gloeih. These are three visitors from … from where?” Kwercus took a deep breath. “We are from Aravah.” “Aravah? But it is said it was destroyed, and everyone imprisoned. Why were you not taken prisoner?” Tsalix wondered how much he should reveal. After a moment, he said, “We were not in the town when it was burned. We had been called elsewhere.” “And where would that have been?” The giant cocked his head. “We were on Mount Deschee,” Tsalix said. Tsoapittse’s face grew dark. “Visiting Elosha?” “Aye.”

“For what purpose?” “He had summoned us.” “Sesna, go awaken your mother and tell her we have guests.” “But Daddy, I want to play with them.” “Do as I say! There will be time later.” The boy pouted his lips and stomped out of the room, while his father turned his attention back to Tsalix. “Why were you summoned?” The three remained silent until the giant pushed Asur to his back, placed a thumb as wide as his body on his stomach, and began to squash him. “Tell me, or your friend suffers.” “We were sent to retrieve three talismans,” replied Tsalix. Tsoapittse relaxed his thumb. “Those that awaken the Scepter of Power?” “Aye.” “And have you been successful?” When Tsalix did not answer, the giant put his thumb above Asur again. Tsalix nodded. “There is no need to punish him. We have found two of the talismans.” The giant pulled out one of the chairs and sat. “And you are here to retrieve the one from my home, is that right?” “Aye.” The giant erupted in laughter. “Do you hear that, my sons. They seek the talisman from Mount Litso.”

“You know of the talisman?” Kwercus blurted. “Of course. It is well-hidden. Even if you were somehow to escape, you would not find it.” Tsoapittse’s wife entered the room. “This is Coapiccan. “Will they escape?” he asked her. “I don’t think you’ll escape. No one else ever has.” She cackled. “Not one. And many have tried.”

Chapter 12

Cha Legai pulled on the rope that opened the door at the end of the exercise room. Eleven stood by his side. As the tambour door rolled upward, the overwhelming odor of decay and death rolled into the room. Cha struggled to keep from gagging. Eleven lowered her neck, and he climbed into his accustomed position, behind her shield. The dragon lowered it and clamped his legs in place. Cha grasped two of her horns as she stepped through the door. Behind them, Lance closed the door. Ready? Eleven thought. Aye. She spread her wings and gave an enormous thrust with her legs. They left the ground, and with each beat of her wings they flew higher and higher above the swamp, to where the air was clean and fresh. Cha gazed down at the island below. It appeared no larger than the palm of his hand. He held on even tighter as Eleven spiraled upward. To the west, Cha could see the expanse of the Plain of Wonadsi, and across them, Mount Deschee. As Eleven continued to climb, to the northwest he could see Mount Jinee’s cloudringed summit. Eleven banked to the east and glided toward the rising sun. To the southeast, the glittering tip of Mount Destiny shone in the sun. Beneath them appeared forests and meadows. What land is that? Cha thought. Eleven dipped lower. The Kingdom of Nilchi. Are people there? Few on the western border. Most of them live in the east. She flapped her wings. Would you like to see where they live? How do you know of these people?

My mother knows of them. At one time, her grandparents lived there. She has told me. Eleven swooped toward the ground. Would you like to visit them? Won’t they see you and be frightened? We will stay up high. She wheeled to her left and began flapping her wings. The landscape below them flew by in a blur. Cha clenched her horns. It seemed but a few minutes, before she slowed and began to glid in a circle. “There is their city,” she said. Cha looked down at a sprawling city. In the center was a multi-tiered castle. Roads ran out from it like spokes on a wheel. From their great height, the houses were pea-sized, the people barely visible. Outside the city, farms and orchards dotted the land. “I have never heard of this land,” he said. Eleven veered to her right. “They are a peaceful people and have chosen not to take sides in the wars of our kingdom.” “I fear that if Abadon succeeds in the Obsidian Wars, he will attack Nilchi, and they will have to decide whether to oppose him or not.” Cha realized how weary he was of war, and how senseless it seemed. “Perhaps.” The dragon flew even higher before she swooped back across Nilchi. Below them, Keyah was barely visible in the middle of the Swamp of Miasma. “Are you ready to return?” “Aye, Eleven. Thank you for letting me ride with you.” “I think I will change my name,” she said, as they began their descent toward the island. “I will no longer be called Eleven. My name will be Yozons.” “Yozons? Why?” “It fits me, I think.” She tucked her wings against her side, and they streaked

toward Keyah. Cha held on tight as the wind whipped past him. At the last moment, Yozons flared her wings, and they dropped softly to the ground in front of the door to the enclosure. The odor of the swamp pressed down on them like a giant hand. She nodded, and the door rolled open. “How did you do that?” Cha said. “It is simple. Once you know the key.” The dragon walked into the room, and the door rolled shut behind her. She lowered her head and released Cha’s legs to let him slip to the floor. Yozons’s two sisters came out of their rooms. “Did you have a good flight?” Four said. “How high did you go?” Six said. “How far?” said Four. Yozons raised her head until it nearly touched the ceiling. “Wait a minute, my sisters. Cha must be tired from his ride. Let him get some rest.” Cha was amazed at how exhausted he was. His arms and hands felt like lead from gripping Elev—Yozons’s horns. “If you’ll excuse me.” He shuffled out of the room. Once he had left, Yozons drew the other two dragons to her. “We flew across Nilchi.” “All the way?” said Four. “Clear to the city. We stayed very high so we would not be seen.” Six nodded. “Was Cha afraid?”

Yozons thought for a moment. “Maybe. He had a very firm grip on my horns.” Her sisters nodded. “Tomorrow it is Velvet’s turn.” Six smiled. “Then Lance,” said Four. “I don’t think he likes heights. It might be interesting.” Yozons beckoned with a twist of her head. “It is time we asked to have our little sisters brought in with us.” “Why, Eleven?” replied Four. “So they can grow as we have grown. And I have taken a name. I am now Yozons.” “Yozons?” said Four. Because you are so fast?” She nodded. “Today I flew very high and very fast.” Four scratched her chin with a forefoot. “Did you tell Cha?” she said. Yozons nodded. “I told him my name. I didn’t tell him what it meant. He doesn’t understand the ancient tongue.” “Perhaps tomorrow I will have a name,” said Six. “Perhaps Velvet will help me choose it.”

Chapter 13

Captain Nakais approached Nash Doitsoh and saluted. “We’ve arrived, Captain.” “Good. We are waiting for their boat to arrive. It should be here today.” “And then what is your plan?” Doitsoh took Nakais’s arm and led him away from the camp. “I had thought that first we would intercept them and take them captive. But I’ve been thinking … they are here to retrieve the talisman. Perhaps it would be wise to let them complete their task before we capture them. That way, we can bring it back to Prince Abadon, with the three escapees. Nakais nodded. “There is wisdom in what you say.” He studied the bridge. “It seems narrow.” “That is one of the defenses of Mount Litso. The trail on the other side is just as precarious. Only one man at a time may .” “I see. That leaves little room for defense. Once they have the talisman, do we wait for them to cross the bridge? Or do we storm the mountain? Or what do we do if they return to their boat?” Doitsoh stroked his beard. “Are you aware of what has happened to those who have tried attacking Tsoapittse and his family?” Nakais shook his head. “I’m unaware of anything that has happened on Mount Litso.” “Not one has survived. It would be wiser for us to wait here unobserved, until our fugitives have crossed the bridge with the talisman in hand. Or if they do not survive, we can claim the bodies.” “And if they try to return to their boat?” “Once the boat arrives, we’ll scuttle it.”

Nakais nodded again. “Captain, if I may be so bold … will it require all thirty of my men to assist in their capture?” “I doubt it.” “Then may I take leave of you with as many men as you feel safe releasing. The border between our kingdom and Saond still needs to be patrolled. We could return to our duties.” Nash thought for a moment. “Leave me three of your archers and take the rest back to your normal duties.” “Aye, Captain. We’ll catch our rest and leave in the morning.” Doitsoh watched Nakais walk back through the camp. In the distance, he could hear the squeal of the wolacs as they jostled each other for a place to feed. Through the thicket, he could see the waves beginning to stir as the tide flowed in. “Where are you?” he snarled. Keeping an eye on the harbor, he plopped down on a large flat rock. He’d never been so frustrated in his life. How could three men escape from his clutches? First, he’d captured them as they crossed the Desert of Shayeksten. Then, during the fury of a storm, they’d escaped. Then he was sure he had them surrounded on Mount Tsood but somehow, they’d gotten into his old Kingdom of Saond. He took a deep breath. There were few things he feared but trying to enter Saond was one of them. He knew it meant—instant, painful death. He shook his mane in annoyance. Then the three men had escaped from Saond, and Doitsoh had covered their escape routes, only to be left empty-handed. It was as if they were will-o’-thewisps. He knotted his forehead. Where did they get a boat to sail down the Tohkal? They should have been crossing the Sea of Tabass, not coming down the river. Where had they been? At least he was certain they were headed to the yellow mountain, and the only

harbor was the one he was watching. “You’ll not escape me this time,” he said, through gritted teeth. The sun set behind him, and Doitsoh returned to the camp to eat dinner. The others acknowledged him with a bow. Captain Nakais rose from the log he was sitting on. “I’ll leave these three with you.” He pointed to three men gathered around a small cooking fire. “They are experienced archers and hardened in battle.” Doitsoh nodded. “I shouldn’t need them much longer. I’m surprised the boat didn’t arrive today.” “Perhaps they had trouble. Are any of them skilled sailors?” “I know not. But I doubt it. One is a farmer, one a wood cutter, and the third a soldier.” “Then they may have had problems. The Maelstrom of Tears is feared by even the most seasoned seamen. They may have been sucked into its maw.” Nash brooded. “I hope not. If the whirlpool has captured them, we will have nothing to take back to Abadon.” Nakais laughed. “It seems peculiar to be hoping for their success in reaching their goal.” Doitsoh leaned toward him. “Once before, I thought I had eliminated these three. When it was proven otherwise, the black prince was not pleased. I dare not return without the bodies of these three—dead or alive.” Nakais clapped him on the shoulder. “Good hunting, my friend. My men and I will be leaving at daybreak.”

Chapter 14

Tsoapittse plopped down on one of the kitchen chairs. Coapiccan was busy kneading bread dough on the table. “What do we do with these three?” he said. “They don’t seem harmful.” She folded the dough with her enormous hands. “We always thought it would be a large army that came to get the talisman.” The giant nodded. “And we were prepared to defeat all of Johona’s troops, had they come.” He shook his head. “But now we have three young men.” “Who must not have come from the harbor or bridge.” She punched the dough again. “Sesna was on watch yesterday, and he did not see them coming. Although, he did see some of Abadon’s forces approach the bridge. They have not tried to cross. Where did these boys come from?” Tsoapittse shook his head. “From Aravah.” “I know that.” She scoffed. “I mean how did they come to our home? There is only one harbor, and they did not land their boat there. Nor did they cross the bridge of solitude.” “Let us ask them.” The chair creaked as he rose from it. “Hatali, bring me our … guests,” he called out. A few moments later Hatali strode into the kitchen. He held Tsalix, Asur, and Kwercus in a box. The three of them were jostled from side to side with every step the giant took. He set the box on the table, next to the bread dough. “I was playing with them.” He sulked. Tsoapittse lifted the three men out of the box and placed them on the tabletop. The mound of dough was higher than their heads. “How did you get to our home?” he said. Tsalix took a step closer to the giant.

“We sailed here on a boat.” The giant knitted his brow. “But I see no boat in the harbor.” “We crashed into the reef and followed the shore to your home. “Liar!” Coapiccan snarled. “No one can survive the reefs. They are sharp as serpents’ teeth.” “We were flung over the reef,” Tsalix replied. “Do not believe them, Tsoapittse.” She punched the mound of dough. The giant stared at them for several seconds. “I think they tell the truth,” he said. “How they survived is a mystery, but I think they came to us just as he said.” He bent his head until it was even with Tsalix’s. “The question now is, what do we do with you?” “I could add them to my dough,” Coapiccan said. “They might add flavor to my bread.” Kwercus prepared to sprint for the edge of the table. Although it was a long drop to the floor, it seemed a better choice than being ground up and made part of a loaf of bread. “Let me think on this,” the giant replied. “Hatali, you and your brothers may play with them. But bring them no harm. See that they are given food and drink.” He thought for a moment. “Who is keeping watch?” The young giant smiled. “Gloeih. Thank you, Father. We will take good care of them.” He popped the three of them back into the box and carried it from the room. Tsoapittse sat back down and rested his head in his hands. “What is troubling you?” his wife said. “The prophecy.” He stood and crossed the kitchen to remove a worn book from a shelf above the

sink. He turned the pages until he reached the one he sought, then read the prophecy.

Dear is the day ax, sword, and plowshare meet. Though fraught with peril and deadened in defeat, all may in jubilation if faithful the carriers pursue the prize, without guile or pride, with strength imbued. And ed with friends through coincidence or design, they reach fulfillment of the promise—a faithful nine. She stopped kneading the dough and sat across the table from her husband.

“These three? No army? Just three?” He nodded. “They say they are here to claim the talisman. It is well-hidden, and they will never find it. Yet if they are the three, then anyone who destroys them brings destruction upon his own family for generations. The talisman provides protection to whoever owns it.” “But just three little men? It is hard to believe.” The giant stood. “Just to be safe, we must make sure we do not cause injury to them. Let us make them comfortable until we learn more about them.” “If you say so.” Tsoapittse smiled at his wife. “They are no danger to us. If they prove troublesome, we can eliminate them at any time.” He strolled out of the kitchen. Coapiccan watched him leave. “I’d just as soon add them to my bread,” she said, under her breath.

Chapter 15

“Eight, Nine, and Fifteen?” Velvet said. “Why those three?” Cha shrugged. “They are the three that Eleven—I mean, Yozons—says are ready.” “I think we need to talk with Lance.” The two of them were sitting in the atrium, looking out the west-facing windows. Spring had come, and a profusion of flowers carpeted the ground. “But I have the feeling he’ll agree,” she said. Cha nodded. “Velvet, what do you think this is all about?” “What do you mean?” “The dragons. I have no idea how long they’ve been here on this island. You and Lance aren’t the first ones to take care of them, are you?” Velvet shook her head. “Well, Lance and I are the only ones who have taken care of the hatchlings. But my father, and his father before him, took care of Nashoi, their mother.” Cha thought about that for a moment. “And the eggs were laid long before you and Lance came to the island?” She nodded. “So I’m wondering why, after all these years, the eggs hatched, and now we’re allowing some of the dragons to mature, to gain full size. Why?” “I wish I knew. My father doesn’t speak much about the years he tended the island. The next time he comes, we can try to see if he knows the purpose.” “I suppose that will have to suffice.” Cha leaned forward and put his chin in his hands. “This is also new to me.” “What? Raising dragons?”

“That, too. But the idea of discussing things. I was trained to obey, nothing more. Even when I was a lieutenant, I took my orders from my captain.” Velvet wrinkled her forehead. “You were a lieutenant?” Cha barely nodded. “Aye.” “In Johona’s army?” Cha sank down even lower in his chair. “Nay.” He looked at the floor. “Velvet, you may not want to have anything to do with me if you learn my story.” “Cha, you’ve been a great help to my brother and me. I’ve seen nothing that would make me dislike you.” They sat silently for several minutes. “As a baby,” Cha whispered, “I was given to an overseer who reared me to be a soldier in Abadon’s army. When he deemed me ready, I was assigned to a company that patrolled the Plain of Wonadsi. It was there that I engaged in my first battle.” He paused and shook his head. “It was there that I killed my first man.” Velvet whispered, “That happens in battle.” “He was wounded. I could have left him on the battlefield.” “Where he probably would have died anyway,” she whispered. “Perhaps.” He looked into her eyes. “But what troubles me now is that it did not trouble me at all then.” He shook his head again. “I was a faithful soldier, and within a year I became a squad leader, and then a lieutenant.” Velvet waited a few minutes. “And something happened that troubles you deeply.” “Aye.” He lapsed into silence again. “Cha, we’ve all made mistakes. Nothing changes the past. We can only learn from it and try to make the future better.”

Still, he remained silent. “There is nothing you’ve done while you’ve been here on Keyah that makes me think anything but fond thoughts of you.” “I killed some of my own men to protect myself!” Tears streamed down his cheeks. “It was a coward’s decision.” Velvet slid closer to Cha and put her hand on his arm. “Cha, my friend, I know not what to say. But know this—the man you describe is not the man sitting next to me.” She leaned toward him and kissed him on his cheek. “I hope not.” He sobbed. “I hope not.” A thrumming sound filled the atrium. It grew louder with each ing minute. “Nashoi must be awake,” Velvet smiled as she patted Cha’s cheek. “Come, my friend. Let’s see what she needs.” She took his hand in hers and moved across the atrium.

Chapter 16

The ceiling was at least thirty feet above them, and the bed more than twice as high as Tsalix was tall. The three of them had been placed on the bed by Hatali. “Stay here, until dinner,” he said. His brother Sesna stood behind him. They watched the three young men settle themselves on the quilt, before they left the room and locked the door behind them. Tsalix turned to Asur. “Are you all right? I was afraid he was going to squish you.” Asur shook his head. “I’m fine. A little bruised, but fine.” Tsalix slid to the edge of the bed. The floor was fifteen feet below him. He examined the room from his perch. There was a single window high on the wall above an enormous dresser. A ladder-backed chair sat next to the dresser, with its seat nearly as high as the bed. There was no other furniture in the room. “What do we do now?” he said. Asur shook his head. “I know not. I’ve never seen anything like Tsoapittse.” “Or his wife and children,” Kwercus said. “Now I know why Sambucus wasn’t willing to tell us what we might find on this mountain.” Tsalix forced himself to his feet. The quilt beneath him was soft and difficult to walk on. “I think if they’d wanted to kill us,” he said, “we’d be dead.” “That’s a pleasant thought,” said Asur. “So what do we do?” Kwercus said. “I think we need to be on our best behavior and not anger them.” Tsalix sat back down on the comforter. “We know we cannot win in a battle with them. So let’s keep on our guard and see what they have in store for us.”

Kwercus shrugged. “What else can we do?” He sank back onto the bed. “Besides, I’m so weary after marching all of last night, I think I’ll take a nap.” It was only minutes before the three of them were fast asleep and unaware that Hatali was watching them through a peephole in the door. “They’re asleep,” he whispered to his brother. “We’ll wake them up for dinner, and then we can play with them some more.” Time ed, and then Tsalix blinked as the setting sun shone through the window. He pushed himself into a sitting position as gently as he could, but Asur and Kwercus awakened. Tsalix flexed his back and rolled his shoulders, trying to work the stiffness out of them. He ran his fingers through his black hair and rubbed the back of his neck. “Well, what do we do now?” he said. Before Asur or Kwercus could answer, they heard the grating of a key in the lock, and the door swung open. The three gigantic boys entered the room. “I want this one.” Hatali grabbed Tsalix around the middle and lifted him off the bed. “I wanted him,” Sesna pouted. “Why do you always get your way?” “Cause I’m the oldest,” Hatali said. “Now you choose, and Gloeih gets what’s left.” Sesna stared at the two for a moment, before reaching out and grabbing Asur. “He has red hair like me.” Gloeih plucked Kwercus off the bed and followed his brothers through the door, into the hallway leading to the kitchen. Tsoapittse was already seated at the head of the table, and Coapiccan was ladling stew from a pot on top of the stove. “Put those boys down,” Tsoapittse thundered. “They’re not playthings.” He pointed at an inverted box that had been placed on one of the empty chairs. The three young giants placed Asur, Tsalix, and Kwercus on top of the box.

Even with that help, the tabletop was waist-high. Coapiccan placed a bowl of stew in front of her husband and each of her sons. She filled another bowl and placed it in front of the three guests before she sat with her own bowl. “Eat,” Tsoapittse said. The five giants lifted their spoons and began to slurp down the savory stew. Tsalix looked at Asur and Kwercus and the enormous spoon on the table. The handle was longer than they were tall, and the bowl was big as a bathtub. Tsoapittse glanced at the three of them. “Oh, you need a smaller spoon.” He pointed at Gloeih. “Go get them smaller spoons. There are many in the soldier’s packs in the hallway.” Gloeih grumbled as he rose from his chair. “Don’t let Sesna eat my stew.” He disappeared into the entryway, and soon returned with three small spoons. “Here.” He held out his hand, and Tsalix retrieved the spoons from his palm. “Thank you.” Kwercus nodded. He extended his arm across the rim of the bowl and filled the spoon with stew. His stomach rumbled as he brought the stew to his lips. “This is wonderful,” he said to Coapiccan. The horrid smile crossed the giantess’s lips. “Hmm,” she grunted. When they had finished eating, Tsoapittse studied the three young men. “What are we going to do with you?” he muttered. “My sons tell me there is quite a force waiting for you to try to cross the bridge to the mainland. Even if we return your weapons to you, you will not prevail. Or are they the rest of your troops waiting for you to return?” He shifted his gaze to his youngest son. “You set the traps before you left for dinner?”

Gloeih nodded. Kwercus at Tsalix with wide eyes. “How large a force?” he said. “Sesna, how many did you see?” The young giant shrugged his massive shoulders and began counting on his fingers. “A dozen or so, Daddy.” Tsoapittse ran his hands through his hair. “We post a watch where we can see the bridge. It is the only way to reach our land.” He paused. “Except for you three. No one else has ever crossed the reef.” He tugged on his bottom lip with his thumb and index finger. “The trail from the bridge is narrow—wide enough for only one man to . Almost too narrow for my sons.” “Easy to defend,” said Tsalix. “Aye. When only one man at a time can attack…” The giant laughed. “No one has ever been successful. Which is why we have accumulated quite a collection of packs and weapons.” He leaned back in his chair. “So I ask again, what do we do with you? You don’t seem much of a threat.” He leaned forward and put his head in his hands. “Can’t we keep them, Daddy?” said Sesna. “They’re fun to play with.” “Perhaps for a while. We’ll have to think about this,” the old giant grumbled. “Now it’s almost time for bed. Play with them until your mother finishes the dishes.” He pushed to his feet while the three giant boys each retrieved their playthings. Hatali squatted down on the floor and removed a marble from his pocket. It was made of hardened clay, and was six inches in diameter. He placed Tsalix on the floor.

“Let’s play marbles,” he said, with an evil grin. Sesna took a piece of chalk and drew a fifteen-foot circle on the floor. He and Gloeih knelt and placed Asur and Kwercus in front of them. “You three, get in the middle of the circle,” Sesna said. Warily, Asur, Tsalix, and Kwercus moved to the center. Hatali gripped the marble between his index finger and thumb, knuckled down and shot the sphere at the three young men. Tsalix dived to his left. Asur and Kwercus rolled to the right. The marble shot between them, and Gloeih grabbed it. The three young giants cackled. “Your turn,” Hatali said to his youngest brother. Gloeih aimed the marble at Kwercus as he was getting back to his feet, and sent it rolling toward him. Kwercus jumped away from the marble, and it rolled past him. “My turn.” Sesna stopped the marble with one huge hand. He looked at Kwercus, who was crouched, ready to spring, and then sent the sphere toward the spot where Asur was standing. Asur leapt over the marble as it whizzed toward him. “How long will they keep this up?” Tsalix whispered to his two friends. “Until Mommy gets through with the dishes,” Kwercus said. “Let’s hope she’s quick with her task.” The marble zipped toward Tsalix, who barely escaped a direct hit. “No fair,” Gloeih cried out. “You keep moving.” “I have an idea.” Hatali got to his feet, ran to his bedroom, and returned with a piece of twine the thickness of a small rope. He made a loop at the end of it and tightened it around Kwercus’s legs. Then he left about three feet of twine and made another loop around Asur’s legs. He tied the other end of the strand around Tsalix’s ankles.

“Now you can’t get out of the way,” he said. The three were herded to the center of the circle, and Hatali prepared to shoot the marble. “Get ready,” Tsalix said, as the sphere flew at them. “Jump!” The missile missed by a scant inch as it flew under Asur’s feet. “Your turn.” Hatali chortled as Sesna readied a shot. Again, they jumped and avoided a hit. The giant brothers fell to the floor in laughter. “Now, you.” Sesna rolled the marble to Gloeih. “If that hits us, it will do serious damage,” Kwercus whispered. “Get ready.” The three of them crouched down, and as the marble came whizzing at them, they leapt at the last moment and avoided injury. “I don’t know how long we can keep this up,” Kwercus wheezed. Hatali readied his next shot, when his mother said, “I’m done, boys. It’s time for bed.” “One more shot.” Hatali aimed at Asur, in the center of the three targets, and shot the marble with all his force. It bounced across the circle. Kwercus could see it was going to bounce into them if they tried to jump over it, so he threw his arms around Asur and dived to the side just as the marble whooshed by them. “Not fair.” Hatali sulked. “Time for bed,” Tsoapittse said. “You can play with them again tomorrow.” Hatali stuffed the marble back into his pocket and followed his brothers down the hallway to their bedroom. Tsalix untied the twine from around his ankles and helped Asur free himself.

Kwercus rolled up the twine and looked for a place to hide it. While he was looking around, Tsoapittse reached down and picked up the three of them. Kwercus stuffed the rope beneath his tunic. “It’s time for you to go to bed, too.” The giant grinned. “I think tomorrow will be even more interesting. My boys are quite creative in their play.” He carried them to the bedroom and placed them on the bed, then closed and locked the door behind him.

Chapter 17

Captain Nash Doitsoh watched as Captain Nakais and his men mounted their wolacs and headed up the trail, away from the bridge. He surveyed the remaining men—he had five of his men, and three of Nakais’s archers. Nine of us against the three of them, and only one of them trained in battle. It will be a slaughter. He snickered. This time, they’ll not escape. Satisfied that all was in place, he beckoned to one of the men, who left the side of the fire and ed Nash. “Captain.” Nash pointed through the undergrowth, toward the bridge. “Go down and crossover to the island.” “Of course. And when I reach the other side of the bridge, what would you have me do?” “Move carefully on the trail that leads to the north, around the mountain. Keep your eyes open for any defenses. Then return and tell me what you’ve seen.” The soldier saluted and stepped out of the glade, toward the bridge. Nash watched from his hiding place until he started across the span. Sunlight flashed from his armor. The floor of the bridge was made of wood planks. Three feet above them, a rope ran on each side to provide a handhold. It was so narrow that the soldier had to raise his elbows above the ropes to . It took him several minutes to cross to the island. Nash rubbed his hands together in glee. “No one will be able to rush across that bridge.” He chuckled. “We’ll wait until they’ve crossed and pick them off one by one.” Beyond the bridge, a trail merely a foot wide had been carved into the steep mountainside. Above it, the rise of the mountain was so sharp that none could find purchase on it. Below, the cliff dropped into the angry Sea of Tabass. The trail made a steep climb up the peak.

The soldier picked along the path. He had gone only a few dozen yards when a pile of stones half his height blocked his way. He began to clear the path by throwing the rocks into the sea. The last boulder was the size of his head, and as he lifted it, he heard a rumbling sound above him. The soldier looked up and dropped the rock. As he spun around, he lost his footing. From high on the mountainside, a huge boulder was racing toward him. He screamed as he scrambled to get out of its way, and it appeared he might make it, but at the last moment the boulder grazed his shoulder and sent him tumbling down the cliff, into the sea. Nash watched as the man plummeted into the water. The weight of his armor pulled him beneath the surface. The three archers who had been practicing near the edge of the meadow heard the scream and saw the man tumble down the cliff. Unencumbered by armor, they raced across the narrow beach and flung themselves into the water, then swam to the spot where their companion had dropped into the sea. One after another, they dived under the waves, looking for the drowning man, but to no avail. The current pulled them away from the shore, and soon they realized their efforts were hopeless. It took all their strength to make it back to land. They lay on the edge of the meadow, panting. “How did it happen?” one of them blurted. “What was he doing?” Their voices carried through the glade, to Nash’s ears. He pushed through the foliage. “I sent him to scout the trail,” he growled. “I should have known that Tsoapittse would place traps along the way.” “Traps?” Nash nodded. “He was clearing a pile of rocks from the trail, and somehow that triggered the stones above him.” Nash sensed the unease growing among his men. “Now we know why we must wait on this side of the bridge.” He stroked his mane. “He gave his life bravely.” “I thought these people—whoever they are—were our allies.” Nash paused for a moment. “I am not sure they are anyone’s allies. They have lived a solitary existence for generations, and they seem determined to protect their home from any invaders.”

“Captain, may I speak?” “Of course.” “If these people are so set on protecting themselves, at the peril of all others, then how will the men we seek survive?” Nash took a deep breath. “You may be right.” “That is supposing they avoided the Maelstrom of Tears. Which I dare say is not a certainty.” Nash chewed on his lower lip. He knew he needed to put an end to this wavering, but he was unsure how to do it. After pondering the situation for a few moments, he said, “If you knew these men as I do, you’d know they will find some way to succeed.” “If you say so, Captain. Are you sure they are on the mountain? And if they are, how will they escape the traps that have been set?” Nash pounded his chest with his fists. “Inside here, I know they are either approaching Mount Litso, or they are on that mountain and doing all they can to complete their task!” “But how did they get there? If they are already there.” Nash growled, “I know not. But I know how dedicated they are to their mission. It may be they have yet to arrive.” “What is that mission, Captain?” Although he’d shared the reason for their quest with Captain Nakais, he had chosen not to disclose it to the others. Now he felt himself painted into a corner. He wrinkled his face. “They seek a talisman that is hidden somewhere on this mountain.” “A talisman?” “Aye. Have you heard of the Scepter of Power?” Nash’s gaze burned into their

eyes. “Just weird stories.” All of the men nodded. “It lies on Mount Destiny, the Glittering Peak. Many men have tried to remove it, but none of them has succeeded.” The men nodded. “But it is said that if a talisman is found and retrieved from the other three sacred peaks, they carry with them the secret to releasing the scepter from its crystal sphere.” “A crystal sphere? Why not shatter it?” Nash shook his head. “I know that Prince Abadon has tried with every weapon he can devise, and the sphere remains unscarred.” “What is this talisman?” Nash shrugged. “I know not.” “But what makes you think these men will find it?” Nash took another deep breath. “Because they have already found the talisman on Mount Jinee, and another one on Mount Tsood. If they find this one, it is possible that foul Johona will be able to claim the scepter and place us all under his oppressive rule.” He drew the tsenil from his belt and drove the head into the trunk of a tree. The other men drew back in fear. Although some of them had seen their captain display his anger before, never had they seen him so enraged. “They cannot succeed! They simply must not.” He pulled the axe out of the tree. “And they will not. We will wait until they cross that bridge, and we will kill them on the spot.” He looks at the archers. “You, be prepared to stop them if they try to retreat.”

He stomped toward his tent, while his men exchanged nervous glances.

Chapter 18

Tsalix dangled his feet over the edge of the bed. The floor was fifteen feet below. Asur and Kwercus lay asleep on the massive quilt that covered the bed. Silently, Tsalix reached under one of the pillows and retrieved the length of rope that Hatali had bound them with. Kwercus had managed to roll it up, stash it under his clothing, and hide it under the pillow. Tsalix fed the rope through his hands. In the dim moonlight, it appeared to almost reach the floor. He pulled it back up to the top of the bed, tied one end around the bedpost, and slid down the rope. When he reached the end, he hung for a moment, before he let go of the rope and dropped to the floor. He crossed the room, to the chair that sat next to the dresser. In the shadows, he could barely make out the horizontal spreaders that strengthened the legs—shaped dowels that fit into holes drilled in the legs. They were just above his head, halfway to the seat. He grasped the front spreader, and with a thrust, pulled himself onto it. There, he saw the problem—the seat was still six feet above him and stuck out more than a foot in front of the legs. There was no way he could reach out and get his hands around the seat without falling from his perch. He lowered himself to the floor and examined the chair more closely. “Tsalix,” Kwercus whispered. “What are you doing?” Tsalix crossed the room, to the bed. “Trying to find a way out of here. You saw how close we came to being smashed by a marble. Tomorrow will be even more deadly, I suspect. We’ve got to find a way to escape.” “How did you get down on the floor?” Tsalix pointed. “I slid down the rope.” Kwercus moved through the soft, mountainous quilt, to the rope. A moment later, he was standing on the floor next to his friend. “Any luck?” Tsalix led Kwercus to the chair. “I can pull myself up onto that spreader, but the

seat sticks too far out.” Kwercus nodded. “Is it the same on the sides?” The two of them moved around the chair. “Look. Near the back legs, the seat sticks out only a couple inches.” Tsalix grabbed the spreader, pulled himself onto it, reached over the lip of the seat and swung himself onto the seat. “Come on. I’ll help you.” Kwercus worked his way onto the spreader and stood. He could see Tsalix’s hands hanging down over the seat. Tsalix caught his balance, then reached forward and grasped Kwercus’s hands. A moment later, Tsalix had dragged him over the edge of the chair. “Thank you,” Kwercus wheezed, and patted him on the back. “Now what?” “To the top of the dresser.” Tsalix pulled himself onto the lowest rung of the ladder-backed chair and proceeded to climb. Kwercus followed him until they jumped from the back of the chair, onto the dresser. The window was six feet above them. Kwercus knelt. “Climb on my shoulders.” With some difficulty, Tsalix stood on his shoulders. He balanced himself against the wall while Kwercus struggled to his feet. Tsalix pulled himself onto the windowsill and found that the window had been propped open. He poked his head out and surveyed the scene. “There are vines growing up the side of the house,” he whispered to Kwercus, then reached out and tugged on one of them. “Strong enough to us.” Kwercus turned around on the chair seat and looked across the room, to where Asur was sleeping. “ Now all we have to do is get Asur,” he said. “You stay here, and I’ll go get him.” Before Tsalix could argue, Kwercus jumped from the dresser to the chair back, and traveled to the floor. He jumped high and grabbed the rope to pull himself up

to the top of the bed. He awakened Asur and explained what they were doing. Asur slid down the rope, to the floor. Kwercus thought for a moment, before he untied the rope from the bedpost. Then he threaded the rope around the post, tied one end to his belt, and grasped the other side with both hands. He let himself down as far as he could until he reached the end of the rope. In the gloom, he couldn’t see how far he was from the floor. He took a deep breath and let go of the rope. He landed on the floor with a thump. He hurried to coil the rope, and scurried across the floor, to the side of the chair. It took just a minute or two until he had boosted Asur onto the spreader, swung himself onto the seat, and pulled Asur beside him. Tsalix was sitting in the open window when his two friends leapt from the back of the chair, to the dresser. Kwercus tied the rope to Asur’s belt and then pushed him up to the windowsill. “Untie the rope, and then tie it to a vine,” Kwercus whispered. As soon as Tsalix had secured the rope, Kwercus used it to pull himself up to the windowsill. The moon came out from behind a cloud and revealed the ground, fifty feet below the window. The three of them contemplated their situation for a moment. “I’ll go first.” Tsalix stretched out his arms, caught onto a vine that was as thick as his thigh, and began heading to the ground. “You go next,” Kwercus said. Asur sat motionless. “You know I hate heights,” he whispered. “Aye. But you can do it. I’ll hold you while you get a grip on the vine.” Kwercus held onto Asur’s legs while he reached for the vine. When Kwercus was sure his friend had a firm hold, he let go. Asur stifled a scream as his legs swung free. He scrambled, trying to catch the vine. Once he squeezed the vine between his knees, he hung breathless and motionless. Kwercus whispered, “You can do it. Just go slowly.”

Eventually, Asur began down the vine. Kwercus waited until his friend reached the ground before he reached out and grabbed the vine, then scaled down the building. “Which way?” Kwercus said. Tsalix shrugged. “I think we need to get away from here as far as possible.” He started moving away from the house, and toward the orchard. “What about the talisman?” Kwercus said. Tsalix looked up the towering peak. “I think we need to escape first. Then we’ll start looking for it.” Most of the fruit trees were in full bloom, and their perfume drew the three of them toward the shadowing trees. Once they moved beneath the canopy, they were in total darkness. They crept ahead with their hands outstretched. It seemed as if hours ed before they reached the edge of the orchard. A line of tall oaks bordered the fruit trees. Another step took them from the fertile fields to the bare yellow rock on Mount Litso. Kwercus saw the narrow path that had been cut into the side of the mountain. “This way,” he whispered. Before he took another step, a net dropped over them, swept them off their feet, and lifted them from the ground. They came to rest hanging from the stout branch of one of the oaks. The net was made of inch-thick cords woven close together. The three of them struggled to free themselves from the net and each other as they were tumbled about. After some time, they were sitting with their backs against the net and their feet pressing together in the center. “What now?” Kwercus said.

Chapter 19

Cha Legai knocked softly on the door before entering the dragon’s enclosure. He and Velvet had met with Nashoi and told the old dragon what was happening with her daughters. None of what they said seemed to be news to her. She had suggested that her daughters, Eight, Nine, and Fifteen, should be allowed to grow as Four, Six, and Eleven had. Cha was surprised that these were the same dragons that Yozons, the former number Eleven, had nominated. “Hello, Cha,” the little dragons said, in unison. “Hello, my friends. I have something to discuss with you.” The six small dragons left their enclosures and flew to a spot in front of Cha’s feet. Eight said, “About Nine, Fifteen, and me being able to grow?” “How did you know that?” “Mother told us,” Eight said. “We’re ready.” “You talked with Nashoi?” Eight stretched her neck and flexed her wings. “Sort of,” she replied. There was a knock on the door, and Lance and Velvet slipped into the room. Cha looked over his shoulder at them. “It appears we have three very excited friends,” he said. “Then let’s get on with it,” Lance said. Each of them beckoned to the young dragons, and a moment later the three chosen ones were being led into the larger room. Yozons squealed with excitement. Before an hour had ed, the three larger dragons had initiated their sisters into the training routines that went on daily.

Yozons glided over to Cha. “You have made me happy,” she said, as he rubbed the spot between her wings. Cha smiled. “Can I ask you something, Yozons?” “Of course,” she purred. “Eight said your mother, Nashoi, had told her we were going to invite the three of them to you. How did she do that?” Yozons smiled. “You told her.” “I did?” “You and Velvet told her while you were taking care of her.” Cha shook his head. “I don’t think so.” “Cha, do you really think only you and I can communicate by think-talk?” Cha gasped. “You mean Nashoi can read my mind, too?” “Are you ready to go flying?” “You didn’t answer my question, Yozons.” She lowered her head to the ground and looked up at Cha. “Why don’t you ask her yourself?” She blinked her golden eyes. “Now, let’s go fly.” The tambour door rolled open, allowing the stench of the swamp to roll over them. Cha, Velvet, and Lance each mounted their dragons, and a few seconds later were being lifted high above the island. “Which way?” Yozons said. “To the east again,” Cha replied. In perfect triangular formation, the three dragons wheeled toward the east as they flapped their wings and rose vertically. When they finally leveled off, Cha

looked over his shoulder, to where Velvet flew, with her hair streaming behind her and a broad smile on her face. Over his other shoulder, he saw Lance wearing a broad grin, although he held on with a firm grip. They flew past the castle city of Nilchi before swinging in a wide circle to begin the journey home. Far ahead the Plain of Wonadsi sent waves of heat into the air. Cha saw flashes of light and realized he was watching a battle, from his perch high in the air. Yozons, do you see the battle ahead? he thought. Of course. Would you like to see it more closely? If we can, without them seeing a dragon. I will stay high, Cha. Yozons flapped her wings and took them even higher. Cha looked over his shoulder and saw that Lance and Velvet were following them. In a few minutes, they were circling directly over the battlefield. From their elevation, the only way Cha could tell the difference between the two forces was because Abadon’s rode wolacs, and Johona’s were on horseback. At this distance, it was impossible to tell who was winning the skirmish. He felt an overwhelming sense of grief that men’s lives were being taken. “Home, Yozons,” he said, in a weary tone. She wheeled around and flew directly back to Keyah. The door opened as they approached, and the three dragons glided into their accommodations. Chad dismounted and rubbed Yozons between her wings. “Thank you, my friend,” he said. He turned toward Lance and found him talking with Four. “Neol, it is.” Lance walked over to Cha and clapped him on the shoulder. “Four has chosen her name. From now on, she is to be called Neol.” Velvet smiled at the two men. “And Six is now Shilloh.”

“So be it,” Lance said. Velvet reached out and put her hand on Cha’s arm. “What was happening down there,” she said, “on the Plain of Wonadsi?” “A battle between two troops.” “You seem sorrowful,” she said. “It all seems so unnecessary.” He took a deep breath. “I am so weary of war.” They bade goodnight to their dragons and retired to the atrium. “Whose turn is it for dinner?” Lance said. “Mine.” Velvet left the two men to prepare the meal. “You seem troubled, Cha.” Cha put his head in his hands. “I grew up learning to obey orders. Not to think, but to just obey. I never doubted that what we were doing was necessary, and I truly believed what I was taught, that Abadon was the rightful ruler, and Johona was an evil interloper. I believed we needed to subdue—nay—kill his forces so that peace and order could be restored to the land.” “And now you doubt that bloodshed brings peace?” Cha stared at Lance. “I looked down on that battle and realized I could have been there. And I could have been fighting for the wrong master.” Lance put his hand on Cha’s shoulder and squeezed. “Cha, you’re a brave man, and I’m proud to have you us.” “I feel so unworthy,” he mumbled. “My sister doesn’t think you are.” Lance pulled Cha to his feet, and they moved toward the kitchen.

Chapter 20

Nash Doitsoh paced back and forth on the narrow beach. “Where are they?” he snarled. He had stalked southward on the path until he reached a point across the water, and across from the edge of the yellow peak. It was there that a boat had to to reach the single harbor on the island. Although he stayed for most of the day, he saw no one approaching. It was inconceivable that the fugitives had reached the harbor or the bridge before his men had taken their positions. Either they were still out on the Sea of Tabass, or the Maelstrom of Tears had swallowed them down its open maw. And yet something told him they were here on Mount Litso. He began heading back to camp, wondering how he could determine that for certain. He grimaced when he thought of the rockslide that had sent one of his men to his death. “There must be more than one booby trap on the trail,” he muttered. His countenance clouded as he loped up the trail. “Any activity?” he said to the lookout. “Nay, Captain. All is quiet.” Nash nodded. He paced a few hundred feet past the camp and surveyed the side of the mountain. He could see a narrow beach just below the surface of the water. “The tide must be out. I wonder how far that beach extends around the peak?” He squatted and watched the pattern of the waves. The water was funneled between the cliffs on the north and the side of the mountain. Each pulse of waves rushed through the narrows, around the island, and under the bridge. Then the water rushed back through the channel to meet the next wave. Nash stretched out under a tree and began counting the time between the surges … about twenty seconds elapsed.

I wonder if a man could move around the mountain by hurrying when the undertow is pulling out, and then holding still while the waves wash in? He watched and pondered for an hour and noticed the tide had risen over a foot during that time. “Tomorrow, at low tide, I will send a man, minus his armor, to try to round the island and see whether our prey is there—if they have not appeared.” He returned to camp and helped himself to dinner. As he sat, eating, the guard changed. The man who had just been relieved of the lookout post strode back into camp and filled his plate with dinner. Nash beckoned to him. “Captain?” “You have been on the lookout for the last four hours. When was the tide at its lowest?” The man looked at the ground. “I wasn’t really paying attention, Captain. About an hour ago, or maybe a little more.” “Just before sunset?” “Aye. May I ask why you need to know?” Nash stroked his beard. “Tomorrow, I will send a man through the shallow water around the island.” “Captain, even at low tide, the water moves with great force.” “I know that! He will have to move at the right time, but I can tell him how to do that.” “Aye, Captain.” “Who is it that you relieved? Send him to me.” “Aye. His name is Digisso.” A few moments later, a soldier approached and knelt beside Nash.

“Captain, you wanted to see me?” “Aye. Digisso is it?” The man nodded. “I have been studying the waves, and I think there is a way to reach the far side of Mount Litso without risking the trail.” Digisso nodded again. “It would be good to avoid the trail.” Nash nodded. “We don’t need to lose any more men.” He led Digisso to the edge of the water. “When the tide is out, a man can walk in the water, next to the cliffs.” He pointed at the base of the mountain. “You cannot see it now because the tide is coming in, but just before sunset, the water is so shallow a man can walk through it if he goes carefully.” “Captain, it may be so. But I have watched every bit of flotsam carried in by the waves get sucked back out to sea. The force seems very strong.” “Aye, but if a man were to hurry out with the undertow, and then brace himself against the incoming waves, I believe it can be done.” “Perhaps.” Nash’s anger was beginning to rise at the reluctance of Digisso to accept his word. With steel in his voice, he said, “Tomorrow, when the tide is at its lowest, you will cross the bridge and enter the shallow water. Then you will make yourself around the island until you can see what lies on the other side. I—we—need to know whether the fugitives are on the island.” He gazed into Digisso’s eyes. “Can I count on you?” “Of course, Captain. If you command, I obey.” “That’s right. Now go get your rest. Unless they are spotted before sunset, you will fulfill your mission.” Digisso rose to his feet, saluted, and returned to the camp, while Nash stared at

the moon rising across the sea. The whitecaps glowed as the waves crashed into the channel. They must be there. Where else could they be? In the far distance, he could barely make out the whirling water that signaled the edge of the whirlpool. Why has the Maelstrom moved so close to Litso? He reviewed his plan again. He knew that if he were unable to bring the three escapees back to Prince Abadon, he would be banned from the court—or worse. He sensed the final battle was about to begin, and if he were not at Abadon’s side, he would be unable to carry out his plan to become the true ruler of the kingdom. A breeze ruffled the leaves and sent a chill through Nash’s body. With a final glance at the moonstruck waves, he crept back into camp and fell asleep on his cot.

Chapter 21

“Well, what do we have here?” Tsoapittse laughed. “It appears our guests decided to leave without saying goodbye.” He released the rope from the oak tree and set the net on the ground. Tsalix struggled to his feet and freed the opening. Before he could climb out, Tsoapittse opened the neck and scooped out all three men. “I’m sorry you did not find our accommodations to your liking.” He walked back through the orchard to his house. Asur had never felt so discouraged in his life. “What lies ahead now?” he whispered. Neither Tsalix nor Kwercus had an answer. Tsoapittse pushed the door open and strode into the kitchen. He placed the three men on the tabletop and plopped down on one of the chairs. “What are we going to do with you?” he said. Coapiccan approached the table with knife in hand. “Let me add them to my stew,” she growled. Tsoapittse gave a broad smile. “A fine idea, my dear.” She took a step closer. “But not quite yet. We need to be fair. I think we need to give them a chance to find what they’re looking for. Don’t you think that would be fair?” With one swoop of his hands, the giant grabbed the three men and rose from his chair before walking toward the back door of the room. He reached down with one hand and grasped a ring in the floor to pull open a trapdoor. Tsoapittse stepped onto the top step, which creaked beneath his weight, and then descended into the cellar. Sunlight streamed through the open trapdoor and lighted the underground room. Kwercus counted the steps—thirty. Stacks and stacks of discarded furniture, knickknacks, and wooden crates were arranged around the

room. Tsoapittse set the three men on the dirt floor. “I don’t like the looks of this,” Kwercus whispered. Tsoapittse struck flint and steel, and lighted a torch that was set in a sconce in the wall opposite the stairs. “You seek the talisman from Mount Litso. It is in this room.” He moved to one corner, where an enormous grandfather clock sat unmoving. He blew dust off its face and opened the glass to set the time to twelve o’clock. He shut the face, the opened the doors beneath it and pulled on the chains to lift the counterweights, which started the pendulum swinging. “You have twelve hours to find it. When the clock again strikes twelve, if you have not found the talisman, I will deliver you to my wife.” He chuckled. “And I think you know what she wants to do with you.” He crossed to the stairs and climbed them, and with a simple wave, closed the trapdoor behind him. Kwercus stared at the clock. Golden hands stood out from a black face. Twelve round gold spots had the numbers engraved on them. The minute hand moved forward with a menacing click. Asur surveyed the thousands of items in the cellar and shook his head. “We’ll never find it in time.” “Well, we’d better organize ourselves and begin.” Tsalix pointed to one end of the room. “Kwercus, start there. Asur, start in the middle and work toward Kwercus. And I’ll start at the other end of the room.” “What are we looking for?” Asur said. “I don’t think we’re going to find a stone, like the last two.” “Look for anything that has KS engraved on it. Now hurry. We don’t have much time to succeed.”

The three men began their task, but as Kwercus reached the far end of the cellar, he was startled to see a basin had been carved into the floor. It extended from the front of the room to the back and was full of water. There was an opening in the front wall, covered with an iron grate. A flood of water flowed into the trough. He crouched down and struggled to look out of the opening. “Did you come to save me?” Kwercus sprang to his feet, with his heart beating wildly. A small, naked arm reached out to him from the depths of the basin. “What?” he said. “Who are you?” The boy’s head emerged from the water. He had long, flowing white hair that trailed behind him. “I am Thalcla, son of Lotso, King of the Sea of Tabass.” He shook his hair, sending droplets flying everywhere. “Are you here to save me?” Kwercus shook his head. “We did not know you were here. We are captives of Tsoapittse as well.” Thalcla wrinkled his forehead. “I am sorry. I hoped you had come for me.” Tsalix and Asur had heard the voices and abandoned their search to Kwercus. “How did you get here?” Tsalix said. The young boy bowed his head. “Because I did not obey my father.” He dipped beneath the water again, then reappeared. Tsalix saw the slits in the side of his neck, which opened and closed rhythmically. “Please tell us more,” he said. Thalcla looked at him. “He told us to stay away from the shiny objects. But my sisters searched for them, anyway.”

“Where?” said Tsalix. “On the ocean floor, in the sand.” Thalcla’s face clouded. “But one day, I saw this beautiful thing near my father’s treasure chest, and I went to look at it. A moment later, I was snatched up in a net, along with the chest.” He pointed to a trunk that sat on the floor next to the basin in which he lay. “The giant and his sons brought me to their home. They want me to tell them how to open the chest, but I won’t. That is why they keep me alive—in hopes that I’ll tell them the secret. I’ve been here ever since.” “How long ago was that?” Tsalix said. “Two dozen years. Maybe three. It’s difficult to keep track of time down here in the dark.” Kwercus pointed at the grating at the end of the trough. “Where does that lead?” “To the sea. Water flows in and out all day and night.” Kwercus extended his hand. “ us. We are looking for a talisman we were sent to retrieve, and we must find it before the clock strikes twelve.” Thalcla giggled. His laughter rang like tinkling bells. “I cannot. Don’t you see?” He put his hands on the side of the basin and raised himself from the water. But where his legs should have been, there was a fish’s tail. Kwercus blinked his wide eyes. “You are half-fish!” “Aye. I am a merman.” Tsalix recovered from his astonishment. “If we find the talisman and earn our own escape, we will do all we can to help you as well.” Thalcla dipped beneath the water again, then reappeared. “That is more hope than I’ve had in all the time I’ve been here.”

Kwercus said, “In all your time, have you seen anything emblazoned with the letters KS?” The merman shook his head. “Nay. As you can tell, I haven’t been able to survey much of this dungeon. “Then please excuse us as we get back to our search,” Kwercus said. “Time is running by.”

Chapter 22

The supply boat pulled next to the dock, and Sambucus stepped onto the shore. He lifted one of the heavy containers from the boat and moved toward the door of the enclosure on Keyah. Troubling thoughts had made him change his mind and bring the supplies himself. The door to the enclosure flew open, and his daughter ran to help him. She was followed by Lance and Cha. All of them recoiled against the fetid odor of the swamp, but soon had moved all the containers inside. “With the dragons getting bigger,” Sambucus said, “we’re going to have to bring food more often. That worries me because it leaves us open to discovery by Abadon’s men.” “Why is that?” Lance said. “He seems to be moving them toward the forest that carpets the feet of Mount Destiny. In the last week, most of the patrols in the Plain of Wonadsi have abandoned their posts, and are moving east, toward the forest.” “For what purpose?” Velvet said. Sambucus shrugged. “I know not. But we through the edge of the forest on our journey between Teless and Keyah, and we’ve had to become more and more vigilant.” “He’s preparing for a major battle.” Cha paced across the atrium. “Has Johona moved his forces?” “Not yet.” “He would be wise to do so, before he’s caught unaware.” “I’ll get word to him,” Sambucus said. Cha continued to pace. “Have you heard anything about Tsalix, Asur, and Kwercus? Have they completed their mission?” “I have heard nothing.”

Velvet said, “Who are these men of whom you speak?” “They are the only three left of Elosha’s appointed ones. They have been sent to gather three talismans.” “For what purpose?” Velvet said. Sambucus replied, “It is said that a talisman lies on each of the sacred mountains, and that the man who holds them can free the Scepter of Power from its crystal sphere.” “And where is this sphere?” Velvet said. Cha stopped his pacing and spun around. “On Mount Destiny! That’s why Abadon is concentrating his forces there, so that if Tsalix and his friends succeed, they can be stopped before they reach the Scepter.” Sambucus said, “We know they have succeeded in getting the talisman from Mount Jinee, and the one from Mount Tsood. If they manage to retrieve the one from Mount Litso, they would hold the key to the Scepter.” Cha looked at Lance. “Tomorrow, when we take the dragons on their training flight we might want to travel to Mount Litso and see what we can see.” “I think you are right, my friend.” “And I think I’d better head back to Teless and send word to Johona, without delay.” Sambucus embraced his children and started for the door. “How many wagons did you bring, Father?” said Lance. “There were four wagons, but once they were unloaded, the drivers returned to Teless.” “Then you will be alone on your journey?” Velvet said. “Aye, but I know the trail well. I’m sure I can avoid Abadon’s men.” Sambucus opened the door and jogged to the waiting boat.

A few seconds later, he cast off and began poling back to the edge of the Swamp of Miasma. Velvet, Lance, and Cha sat around the table. “Should we tell our dragons what we plan to do?” said Velvet. “I’ll go.” Cha strode down the hallway, to the door to the enclosure, knocked softly, and entered the room. All six dragons were lying on the floor, sunning themselves. Yozons turned her head toward him and smiled. “It will be a long flight,” she said, before Cha opened his mouth. “But it will be good to stretch our wings.” Cha shook his head. “How did you know?” “You have taught us well, how to think-speak. There is nothing that happens on this island that we do not know about.” “Perhaps I’ll have to be more careful with what I think.” Cha smiled. “Perhaps.” Yozons blinked her golden eyes. “There is something else I would have you know. You do not have to feed us. We can forage for ourselves. There are many wild creatures in the swamp that make a good meal.” “I will tell Lance and Velvet.” Yozons yawned. “I know their father is worried about having to make more trips. Perhaps this will help.” She stretched out her neck and placed her chin on the floor, then closed her eyes as she warmed herself. Beside her, number eight lay motionless. Cha was astounded at how quickly the three new dragons had grown. It seemed they had doubled in size overnight. At this rate, we’ll have six full-grown dragons by the end of the week. “That is right,” Yozons mumbled.

Chapter 23

The tide was at its ebb as Digisso removed his armor, sword, and tsenil. He placed all of it next to his shield. Nash nodded at him. “Stay close to the cliffs. There is a ledge barely beneath the water that seems to lead around the island.” Digisso nodded back. “As you command, Captain.” “If you see anyone, don’t engage them. Just return and tell me who and what you saw.” Digisso started across the narrow bridge. Unencumbered by his armor, he was able to hold onto the rope railings, and cross at a good clip. Once he reached the other side, he turned back to where Nash was watching. He raised his hand in salute before stepping into the water. He was pleased to find solid footing under less than a foot of water. He waited to see which way the water was moving. A second later, a wave struck his legs and drenched him to the waist. He was nearly thrown off his feet, back toward the bridge. But as soon as the wave reached the shore, the water began moving rapidly back toward the open sea. He scampered along the edge of the cliffs, trying to keep up with the receding water, when the motion stopped. Digisso prepared himself for the oncoming wave by leaning against the cliff and trying to find something to hold on to. Again, the wave hit him, this time a little higher. He struggled with all his might to retain his footing as the wave surged past him. “This is tricky.” The undertow began pulling back toward the open water. He moved with the water until it stopped moving. He looked back toward the bridge and was surprised to see he had moved nearly a hundred feet along the ledge. He flattened himself against the yellow rock as another wave washed past him, and this time he was ready to move with the receding waters. In a half-hour, he had moved around the northern flank of the island, and was preparing for the next wave, when his foot found the end of the ledge. He was nearly swept off his feet as he bent down to make sure he had not just reached a break in the underwater

beach, and a wave washed over him. He steadied himself and prepared for the undertow when he realized he had nowhere to step. Frantically, he tried to find anything he could hold onto as the water streamed past his feet. It felt as if clutching hands were trying to pull his feet out from under him. Digisso struggled to keep his balance as the water calmed, but he was still unsteady as the next wave slammed into him and drove him from his perch. His head was pounded against the rocks, and he slipped under the surf, unconscious. Nash Doitsoh stood unmoving at the bridge, waiting for Digisso to return. He must have found a way onto the other side of the island. An hour ed, and the water began to rise as the tide came in. Nash was about to abandon his vigil when he saw something bobbing in the water. The next wave brought Digisso’s lifeless body to him. Nash dragged him onto the narrow beach. It was clear the man was dead. Frustrated beyond belief, Nash called for help. The three archers hurried from the camp. “What happened?” one of them said. “He drowned,” Nash growled. “Get rid of him.” “Aye, Captain.” The three men carried Digisso’s body down the beach, brought shovels from their campsite, and began digging a shallow grave. Night fell over the camp. There were nine of us. Now, only seven remain. I can’t afford to lose any more men. Nash returned to camp and filled his plate with dinner. The rest of the men were strangely silent. An hour ed, before the archers returned. “He is buried,” one of them said. “What happened?” Nash gritted his teeth. “He drowned.” One by one, the men withdrew to their tents and prepared to sleep.

Nash remained by the glowing coals, head in hands, considering his next move.

Chapter 24

“Any luck?” Asur called out. “None,” Tsalix replied. “What time shows on the clock?” “Five minutes after six,” Kwercus said. “We have less than six hours to find the talisman.” He stared at the infernal clock, and then returned to his tasks. He struggled to pull the top off one of the huge boxes that lined the walls. At last, he forced it open. Inside was a stack of folded tablecloths. He lifted each one out to make sure nothing was hidden in their folds. They were as large as a tent. Behind him, the clock ticked loudly. He put the top back on the crate and pushed it back into place. Tsalix heard a splash behind him and saw Thalcla’s head raised over the edge of the trench. “Is it possible the talisman is in your father’s treasure chest?” Tsalix said. Thalcla ducked his head beneath the water and then reappeared. “I think not,” he replied. “It has lain closed and sealed on the bottom of the sea for hundreds of years.” “Would it be possible to look inside, just to be sure?” Tsalix said. Thalcla cocked his head. “How do I know this isn’t another of Tsoapittse’s tricks to get me to open the chest?” Tsalix shrugged. “I know not how to prove to you we are captives as well.” He reached for another crate and pried the top off. Inside, he found a stack of chipped plates the size of wagon wheels. He removed each plate and checked for the KS they were seeking. When he found nothing, he replaced the plates and put the lid back on. Just before the clock showed eleven o’clock, Kwercus opened the last crate.

There was nothing inside that bore KS. He replaced the top and sank down on the floor. “We’ve looked everywhere,” he moaned. “Nothing in this room bears the letters we seek.” “Except for Thalcla’s chest,” Tsalix said. “What will happen if you don’t find the talisman?” Thalcla said, as his head reappeared. “We’ll be killed,” Tsalix replied, “and the kingdom may perish.” The merman studied the three young men. “Turn your heads,” he said. “Don’t watch how I do it, and I’ll open Father’s chest.” Tsalix, Asur, and Kwercus faced away from the treasure chest. A few seconds later, they heard thumping, a click, and a hiss. “You can come look, now,” Thalcla said. The chest was full of oddly shaped objects encrusted with what appeared to be gray stone. “What are these?” Kwercus said. “Treasure,” Thalcla replied. “Don’t let it get wet.” “Why?” Kwercus said. “I know not. But that is why the chest is sealed.” The three men hurried to remove every item from the chest, searching for KS. It took but a few minutes before they knew that the talisman did not lie within the treasure chest. They replaced the items and pushed the top closed. It sealed silently. “Now what?” Asur sat on the edge of the basin.

Kwercus and Tsalix sat beside him. “We’ve searched everything in the basement. It’s just not here.” Kwercus shook his head. “Is it possible Tsoapittse was just playing a cruel joke on us? Maybe the talisman isn’t here.” Tsalix rubbed his forehead. “You may be right, Kwercus. But I have the feeling he was telling the truth. We just haven’t found it yet.” “Where could it be?” Asur said, panic rising in his voice. “We have only a halfhour to find it.” The room grew silent except for the incessant clicking of the clock as the hands moved across its face. “What are we missing?” Kwercus picked up a stick lying near his feet and drew a square in the dirt floor. Inside the square, he wrote KS. Thalcla peered over his shoulder and shook his head, sending a cascade of droplets onto their backs. Kwercus took a deep breath and drew two other squares. In the first, he scribed TS. In the second, AL. “Tsalix Silverthorn and Asur Longtooth,” he said. “But where is Kwercus Strongheart?” Thalcla emerged from the water and looked over Kwercus’s shoulder again. “Are you sure it is KS you are looking for?” “Aye,” Kwercus said. “The first two squares represent the two talismans we’ve already found. One for Tsalix, and one for Asur.” He paused. “Why do you ask?” The merman shook his head again. “It just seems to me that the first two squares hold the first four letters of Tsalix’s name—TSAL. I thought it might mean you should be looking for IX.” Tsalix jumped to his feet. “If he is right, I know where the talisman is.”

“Where?” said Kwercus and Asur. “Don’t you what Queen Nadlee told us? That we’d find the talisman in time. There.” Tsalix pointed to the clock. “The number nine—it is written in Roman numerals.” He stared at the clock. The hands showed only five minutes until twelve. He began pushing one of the crates to the foot of the clock. He climbed onto the box and looked at the face, eight feet above his reach. Kwercus and Asur retrieved another crate. Tsalix jumped down, and the three of them struggled to lift the second crate onto the first. It was too heavy. “Quick. Empty it,” Tsalix said. They tipped the box on its side, pulled off the top, and dumped the contents onto the floor. The three of them struggled with the empty container, but finally managed to slide the edge onto the crate at the base of the clock. Kwercus and Tsalix climbed onto the first box and slid the second one into place, while Asur pushed. Asur ed them, and they stood the crate on end. Tsalix scaled the outside of the container, stood on the top of it, and pulled open the faceplate of the clock. There were barely two minutes left. He grasped the golden circle with IX on its surface, and tugged, but the stone remained in place. “Twist it,” Thalcla called, from the other end of the room. “It won’t budge,” Tsalix yelled back at him. “I need something to pry it out with.” Kwercus ed him on the top of the box. The two of them tried to remove the stone, but it stuck fast. “Hurry,” Asur called. “There’s not much time.” “Boost me up,” Tsalix said. “Why?” Kwercus dropped to one knee, and Tsalix climbed on to his shoulders. Tsalix grabbed the minute hand and stepped from Kwercus’s shoulders. As he

fell, the massive hand snapped off.” “That won’t stop the clock,” Kwercus said. “No, but it gives us a lever.” Tsalix drove the tip of the minute hand under the stone. The two of them pushed, and with a shriek, the talisman popped out of its socket. Asur caught it as it plummeted to the ground. It quivered and glowed in his hands. The clock began chiming the hour.

Chapter 25

Cha rubbed Yozons’s back. “Are you ready, my friend?” The dragon stretched her neck and flexed her shoulders. Her gray-green scales glistened in the early morning light. “It will be a long flight, Cha. But we are ready.” Neol and Shilloh nodded. “Then I’ll go get Velvet and Lance. They are making sure your sisters are fed and watered while we are gone.” After Cha left the room, Yozons raised from the floor and talked to the other five dragons in the room. “Eight, you watch out for Mother and our sisters. We are flying across the kingdom, and it will be dark before we return.” Eight nodded. “Keep us informed as you fly.” “We will.” A few minutes later, Cha, Lance, and Velvet entered the room. Over each shoulder was a pack of food and drink. “What about you, Yozons. Do you need us to carry food for you?” “We’ll be fine, Cha,” she said. “If we need water there, are places we can go where we will not be seen.” She nodded toward the tambour door, and it slid up. “Climb on.” Cha, Lance, and Velvet mounted their dragons, and a moment later, they stepped into the fetid air of the swamp. With a great rush of wings, they were soon airborne. The three dragons spiraled upward into the clean air. Yozons wheeled to the west and began leading the other two across the Plain of Wonadsi. Cha gripped Yozons’s horns. Beneath him, he could see scores of wolacs and men moving toward Mount Destiny, the Glittering Peak. The wolacs told him

they were Abadon’s forces. He searched to see if any of Johona’s men were moving in the same direction but could see none. Only the black prince’s men, Yozons think-spoke. Aye, Yozons replied. Johona would be wise to bring all his men together. Perhaps. The sun was high above them as they reached the far edge of the Plain of Wonadsi and saw the sparkling waters of the Sea of Tabass beneath them. Would you like to stop for lunch? Yozons think-spoke. If there is somewhere you will not be seen. The dragon spun and began to descend to the top of the high plateau. There are no people there, she think-spoke. They landed in a clearing near the edge of the plateau, where a stream cascaded over the edge. Cha, Velvet, and Lance dismounted. “It feels good to stretch my legs.” Cha rubbed Yozons between her wings. The dragons slaked their thirst from the stream, while their riders removed bread and cheese from their packs. Velvet ambled to the edge of the plateau and looked at the scene below. The Tohkal River sparkled in the sunlight. “How much longer will it take to get to Mount Litso?” she said. Shilloh raised her head from the stream. “Perhaps another two hours.” “Then I suggest we be off. We still need to return to Keyah before our journey is through.” A few minutes later, the three dragons swooped off the cliffs of the high plateau and continued on toward Mount Litso. Beneath them, the Sea of Tabass rolled and churned. They had traveled for well over an hour, before Yozons dipped one wing and rolled onto her side.

“There is the Maelstrom of Tears,” she said. Cha stared in amazement at the enormous whirlpool spiraling beneath them. In the near distance were the five peaks of Mount Litso. “It has moved very close to the mountain,” Yozons said. “I wonder why?” “It moves?” Cha said. “That is what Mother says.” Yozons flapped her wings and took them even higher as they approached the yellow mountain. Cha searched the barren peaks for any signs of life. As the dragon moved around the north edge of the mountain, he saw the bridge that connected the island to the mainland. Flashes of light came from the forest. Can you go a little further to the west? he think-spoke. The three dragons caught the thermal currents from the mainland and lifted even further into the cloudless sky. They circled the bridge, and Cha spotted the tethered wolacs. Abadon has men here! Shall we circle the island? Yozons think-spoke. Aye. They circled to the south, reached the end of the island, and circled back on the east side. Look! There’s a house, Cha think-spoke. The three dragons circled above Tsoapittse’s home. There are orchards and barns, Yozons think-spoke. But no signs of the men we seek. They continued around the island, searching for any signs of Tsalix and his friends. The sun was dropping slowly to the west.

We’d better return home. Cha shook his head. I had hoped we’d find them. The dragons flew higher and crossed over the peaks. Tsoapittse’s home appeared beneath them. Yozons began a slow turn to the east, when beneath them they watched in amazement as the house seemed to collapse into itself. A cloud of yellow dust billowed into the air. “What has happened!” Cha yelled. As if one, the three dragons clamped their wings to their sides and plunged toward the island. At the last moment, they flared their wings and dropped onto the beach below the crumbling house.

Chapter 26

Kwercus and Tsalix jumped down from the crates they were standing on. Asur stood with the glowing talisman in his hands as above them, at the top of the steps, the door flew open. Tsoapittse bellowed, “What have you done!” The air was filled with creaks and groans as the house began to sway. The stairway separated itself from the wall and crashed into the basement room. Tsoapittse was barely able to fling himself backward into the kitchen and avoid falling into the cellar. The walls heaved, sending the crates that lined them skittering across the room. Tsalix, Kwercus, and Asur were kept busy, avoiding them. “How can we escape?!” Kwercus pointed at the fallen staircase. “There is no way out.” The metal grate that blocked Thalcla’s exit to the sea was flung across the room and landed with a clank! The merman called out, “Follow me. We can escape to my home.” Tsalix dashed across the buckling floor, followed by Asur and Kwercus. Thalcla was holding onto the top of the opening as the seawater streamed past him. When he saw Tsalix was near the trough, he let go and slid to the Sea of Tabass. Tsalix took a deep breath, dived into the water, squeezed through the opening, and glided down a pipe, which ended up half-submerged in the oceanwater. He rose to his feet in the thigh-deep water and inhaled. Asur followed. And finally, Kwercus squirted out of the pipe. “That was close,” he said. “I barely fit through the opening.” Behind them, the walls of Tsoapittse’s house fractured and collapsed. Huge clouds of yellow dust filled the air. In less than a minute, what had been a magnificent house, became a pile of rubble that was filling the hole that had been the basement. With a final heave and groan, the debris settled, and silence washed over them. A thin, reedy voice cut through the air.

“Thank you, my friends.” Thalcla raised half his body from the water, a few yards into the sea. “Without you, we’d never have succeeded,” Tsalix called back. “What will you do now?” “My father is nearly here.” Thalcla twisted in the waves and looked out toward the sea. “When he arrives, I’ll him.” As if in answer, the whirling waters of the Maelstrom of Tears licked out for the shore. While Tsalix and his friends watched, Thalcla dived into the waves and swam toward the center of the whirlpool. Only once did he again appear above the water. “Until we meet again,” he called out, and then he disappeared beneath the foam. “He truly was our salvation.” Asur held the glowing talisman in both hands. The three of them headed toward the shore. Tsalix nodded. “Why my name? Why not Kwercus’s initials?” Kwercus shrugged. “Who knows. But know this, I am not offended. Once we take it to Elosha, we can ask.” “I suppose.” Tsalix continued to look out over the sea. “I guess our next problem is how to get it to Elosha.” He was still studying the waves and watching the Maelstrom retreat from shore, when Kwercus interrupted his thoughts. The setting sun was blotted out by the cloud of dust, and darkness was covering the earth. A single beam shone down on the edge of the pit and sent a shining ray toward them. “Your sword!” Kwercus said. The two of them inched to the edge of the pit. The Sword of Sonakih lay on top of the rubble. Tsalix grasped the sword by its hilt. It seemed to quiver in his hand.

“Do you think any of the giants survived?” Kwercus stared at the remnants of the house. Before Tsalix could respond, Asur screamed, and the other two swung around to see three enormous dragons plummeting through the sky, toward where they stood. The three of them bolted toward the orchard as Yozons and her sisters landed on the beach. “Tsalix! Stop!” Cha Legai shouted. Tsalix spun around so quickly he toppled to the ground. “Cha. Is that you?” “Aye. We’ve come to help.” Tsalix, Kwercus, and Asur edged toward the three dragons. “I thought all the dragons were dead,” Kwercus said. “Not quite.” Cha grabbed Tsalix by the hand and hugged him. “It is so good to see you again.” Tsalix was still stunned by the sight of the huge reptiles. “Where did you come from?” he said. “Why are you here?” “We are here to help. This is Lance.” The man dismounted from Neol and approached Tsalix. “And this is his sister, Velvet.” Tsalix nodded. “But dragons?” Cha nodded. “Dragons … very intelligent dragons. This is Yozons.” He patted her between the wings. “This is Neol, and that is Shilloh.” Yozons blinked her golden eyes, looked at her two sisters, and in unison, they lifted their heads and sent bursts of flames into the sky. While Tsalix and his friends drew back in fright, the three dragons sank down on their haunches and

rested their heads on the sand. “But how?” Asur said. “Where?” Cha looked past the three men, to where the ruins of Tsoapittse’s home lay. “I suspect we each have a story,” he said. “Do you when you left to regain the talisman that Elosha said I had my own quest?” The three nodded. “Well, this has been my mission, to help with the training of the remaining dragons. They are well-hidden on Keyah, a small island in the Swamp of Miasma. Lance and Velvet are Sambucus’s son and daughter, and have been raising the dragons for some time. I have been lucky enough to help them.” “Amazing!” Tsalix said. “I had no idea any dragons survived.” Not many of us did, Yozons think-spoke. Tsalix recoiled. “Did you just speak to me?” Yozons nodded. Aye. Cha watched the dust settling. “What happened here? What about the talisman?” Tsalix pointed toward the pile of debris. “That was the home of Tsoapittse—a giant with a wife and three sons. They were keepers of the talisman.” Asur withdrew the yellow stone from the pocket of his tunic. “We were looking for the wrong thing,” he said. “You the black talisman had TS engraved on it.” Cha nodded. “For Tsalix Silverthorn.” “The blue talisman had AL on it,” Asur said. “Yes, for you, Asur Longtooth.” “So we thought. And so, we searched for KS, for Kwercus Strongheart. But we

were wrong. Had it not been for Thalcla, we’d have never found the talisman.” “Thalcla?” “The son of the king of the Sea of Tabass. But that’s another story.” “I’d like to hear it.” “In time. Sufficient to say, he recognized that we should be looking for IX. Cha wrinkled his forehead. “IX?” “Aye. The three talismans spell out Tsalix’s name.” “But why?” “I know not. But with Thalcla’s insight, we found the talisman in the nick of time.” Asur held the talisman out for Cha to see. Velvet and Lance drew close to look at the yellow stone. The IX was plainly marked. “What do you do next?” Lance said. “We return to Mount Deschee and give the talisman to Elosha,” said Asur. “How will you get there?” Velvet said. Tsalix pointed to the narrow trail leading around the north end of the mountain. “We’ll travel that trail. I have been told there is a bridge on the far side that will let us reach the mainland. We have traveled across Shayeksten before. We’ll make it back to Mount Deschee.” Cha shook his head. “Nay, my friends. Some of Abadon’s troops are camped just over the bridge. I think they are aware you are here and are waiting for you.” Tsalix sank down on his haunches. “There must be a way.” Cha beckoned to Velvet and Lance, and led them down the beach.

“Do you think the other three dragons are ready to fly this far?” he said. “Maybe,” Velvet replied. They will do just fine, Yozons think-spoke. There are no secrets from you. Cha smiled. What is your council? Do you think your friends will be safe for another day? Aye. Then let us fly back to Keyah, rest tonight, and return tomorrow with our sisters. Velvet think-spoke, And where do we take these men? We can’t deposit them on the top of Mount Deschee. Just think of the commotion that would cause if six dragons descended on the city. Yozons replied, “We could take them back to Keyah with us, and the next time your father comes with the supply boat, he could take them back with him.” That seems like a good plan, Cha think-spoke. I’ll go suggest it to Tsalix. Yozons raised her head and sniffed. She looked at both her sisters, and the three raised from the beach and walked toward the collapsed buildings. They veered away from the house. When they reached the remnants of the barn, Yozons sniffed again and smiled. A moment later, the three aimed a burst of flame toward the rubble, which burst into a roaring fire. Cha spun around. What are you doing? Cleaning up, Yozons replied. When the fire died down, the three dragons plunged their heads into the still smoking ruins. Roast beef, Yozons think-spoke. A few minutes later, she and her sisters went back to the beach. Cha rubbed her between her wings. “Satisfied?”

Yes. The meal was delicious. If we could sleep for a little while, we’ll be ready to go home. When you’re ready, let us know. But she was already asleep.

Chapter 27

Nash Doitsoh jumped to his feet. Above the five-peaked mountain, an enormous cloud of yellow dust was turned to flame by the setting sun. A muted roar reached his ears. “What was that?” one of the archers said, as all the men rushed to Doitsoh’s side. “I know not. But I know we must find out.” Nash shook his mane in frustration. “How can we get safely to the other side of this accursed mountain?” The archer pointed across the bridge, to where Tsoapittse’s barge was tethered. “Captain, perhaps we could take the boat and float to the other side.” Nash considered this for a moment. “But there is nowhere to dock the boat. That is why it is kept here, at the only harbor.” “That is true. But at least we might discover what has happened to cause that.” The archer pointed at the dust that still glowed above the peaks and settled like a thousand twinkling stars. “And we might confirm our fugitives are where I think they are.” Nash squatted down and thought for a moment. “If we leave now, we will be traveling in darkness before we reach the other side.” He rubbed his hand through his beard. “And we know not where the Maelstrom of Tears has settled. We could be sucked into its maw. I think we should wait until morning.” His men nodded. “So let us retire early tonight, and leave at daybreak.” “All of us, Captain?” Nash considered his options. He had six men left—three of his original force, and Nakais’s three archers. Although the boat was meant to hold only Tsoapittse and one other giant, the barge could easily accommodate all of them. But what if his prey moved around the north side of the mountain and crossed the bridge while he and his men were on the barge.

“Nay. I’ll take my three with me and leave you archers to guard the bridge.” “As you wish, Captain.” The sun sank behind the hills, and the shadow of darkness fell over the camp. Nash and his men ate dinner and prepared for bed. He beckoned to the archers. “One of you keep watch tonight. We cannot afford to have those vermin escape. And keep a sharp watch tomorrow while we scout the other side of the island.” The three archers conversed for a moment, and then one of them went to the watch spot, while the other two retired. As the watchman gazed across the Sea of Tabass, he was struck by how calm the water seemed. The moon rose and blazed a shimmering trail across the placid sea. He blinked as the silhouettes of what appeared to be three huge birds crossed in front of the moon. “Tomorrow,” he whispered, “we may draw closer to a time when we can leave this barren mountain.” He fought to keep his eyes open as the gentle waves washed onto the shore. “Ready to be relieved?” The watchman’s eyes flew open. “Aye.” “Anything happen during your watch?” “Nay. The sea is calm, and the winds light. There was no activity to be seen.” He slipped down from his perch and let his relief take his place. “How soon are the captain and his men leaving?” “Did you not see them cross the bridge?” The sentry realized he’d fallen asleep during his watch. “Nay,” he replied. “It was too dark to see anything.” “They’re just casting off.” “Well, then I’ll go catch a few winks.” He crept back to the camp.

Nash and his three troops untied the ropes that tethered the barge to the bridge. Although the boat’s sides were shallow ones for Tsoapittse, they were taller than Nash’s head. On board were long poles, as well as two sets of enormous oars. Two of the men pushed the barge away from the bridge with the poles, and it moved slowly away from the edge of the island. A wave rushed under the bridge and propelled them forward. Then the undertow began to drag them back. The poles were driven into the bottom, and the men strained to keep the barge from moving backward. Nash and his remaining man grabbed oars and helped drive the boat forward. The oar locks were so high off the deck that the two of them had to stand on the seat to operate the oars. They struggled for the better part of an hour, before they were in water too deep for the poles, and they had to put the two sets of oars to use. By noon, they had rounded the south end of the island and moved into even deeper, calmer water. They paused to eat. The sun beat down on them and sapped their strength even more. Nash flexed his shoulders. “Soon, we should see two lagoons. They are protected by reefs, and we need to steer clear of them.” “Can we beach our craft in either lagoon?” said one of the men. Nash shook his head. “It is said there is no age through the reefs.” His mane was sweat-soaked and clung to his shoulders. “But it is just past them that Tsoapittse and his family live.” “Tsoapittse? Who is he?” “The ruler of this island.” Nash brushed strands of hair from his face. “A friend?” “Perhaps. I know little about him, other than no one has ever conquered his domain.” “What kind of man is he?”

Nash shrugged. “I know not. I just know he and his family have defended their island home for decades. However, from the size of this barge, he must be a large man.” He picked up an oar. “If we continue, we may find out more about them.” He dug the blade into the water and pulled. His men ed him, and soon they were gliding through the Sea of Tabass.

Chapter 28

Tsalix bent down and drank from the stream that coursed through the meadow. Kwercus and Asur were both scavenging for food. Cha, Velvet, and Lance had not left until after dark the night before. The dragons had slept peacefully after consuming their meal, and the moon had risen over the sea before they awoke. They left with a promise to return quickly. The sun was climbing in the sky, and the day was becoming hotter. The three of them stayed clear of the place that marked where Tsoapittse’s home had stood. Occasional creaks and groans were heard as the pile of debris shifted and settled. Tsalix climbed onto a shelf of rock and looked out over the Sea of Tabass. Other than gentle waves that slapped the shore, the sea was as smooth as glass. There was no sign of the Maelstrom of Tears, as far as he could see. He sat and thought about the reunion Thalcla must have had with his father, king of the Sea of Tabass, and his mind flew back to the dungeons on Mount Jinee, where his parents and the other residents of Aravah were imprisoned. Tears coursed down his cheeks as he thought of their plight. Have faith. All will be well. Tsalix raised his head as those thoughts entered his mind. He climbed further up the hill, to a plateau where he could see for miles over the Sea of Tabass. Gentle waves marched endlessly toward the shore. He could see that the beach in front of Tsoapittse’s home extended far out into the distance, barely beneath the surface—the water too shallow to accommodate any boat, yet too rough for a man to wade. He glanced down at Asur and Kwercus as they moved through the orchard. The trees were covered with pink and white blossoms. The petals were beginning to fall, and the ground was strewn with fragrant petals. “Who would believe such beauty in the midst of such destruction?” he said. “I suppose that has been the story of our land since the Obsidian Wars began.” A movement on the water caught his eye. Far to his right, beyond the two lagoons, a boat was floating in the water. It was still so far away he could barely make out how many men were onboard. He stared and saw the glint of sunlight from the oars. Over the next half-hour, he could tell the boat was moving slowly toward his position.

Tsalix sprang to his feet and jogged down the hill, toward the orchard. “Asur! Kwercus!” he called out. The two men turned as one. “What?” Asur said. “There is a boat approaching.” Tsalix pointed down the shoreline. “At the rate it’s moving, it will be here within an hour or so.” “Friend or foe?” Kwercus said. “I know not. I think I saw the flash of oars, but it’s still too far away to even judge how many men are onboard.” Kwercus leaned against an ancient apple tree. “When do you think Cha and his friends will arrive?” he said. Tsalix shrugged. “If they left early this morning, they could be here at any moment.” Kwercus looked toward the boat. “If they’re trying to keep their dragons hidden, that could be a problem.” Asur pointed in the sky, to the northeast. “I think they’re already here.” The six dragons were so high in the sky that they appeared no bigger than seagulls, but they were beginning a spiraling descent. “If they do not need to rest, things may be all right.” Tsalix shaded his eyes with his hand and watched as the dragons dropped closer and closer. It seemed but a few seconds before each of them flared her wings and landed softly in the meadow. “Tsalix,” Cha Legai called, as he dismounted. “We’re here.” Tsalix ran to his side. “We may have a problem. There is a boat approaching from the south.”

“We spotted it from the air. There are four men on board. But we think we will be unobserved if we leave quickly.” Yozons think-spoke, Give us a few minutes to slake our thirst, and we’ll be ready to go. The six dragons trotted to the side of the stream and began guzzling. “Do they need food?” Kwercus said. Perhaps we’ll find a morsel or two, Yozons replied. We didn’t eat all of the cattle yesterday. She finished drinking, sprang in the air, and glided to the remnants of the barn. As soon as they finished drinking, Neol and Shilloh ed her. The other three dragons continued to drink their fill. Eight raised her head and sniffed the air. She glided to the side of the pit where the debris from Tsoapittse’s home lay. Nine and Fifteen ed her, and they began shifting the fallen timers, looking for food. Over here, sisters, Yozons think-spoke. But before the three could move, a giant hand was thrust through the rubble, and grabbed Eight by her leg. She screamed, and Nine and Fifteen belched forth a stream of fire from their open mouths, aimed at the hand. With a yowl from the pit, Eight’s leg was released, and she and her sisters flew to Yozons’s side. Slowly, the rubbish was thrown aside as Tsoapittse emerged from the pit. His hair was matted with blood, and one eye was swollen shut. His left arm dangled at his side, and he staggered a few steps before falling to his knees. “What have you done?!” he roared. Asur felt for the talisman in his pocket. “What we were sent to do.” He sprinted toward the waiting dragons. Tsalix and Kwercus were on his heels. Cha showed them how to mount their steeds. The crests clamped down on their legs, and one after another, the six

dragons launched into the air. “I hate heights.” Asur shuddered as he and Nine gained altitude. I am Nine, the dragon think-spoke to him. Do not worry. You will be safe with me. What is your name? I am Asur. They spiraled upward. Tsalix looked down at the beach. Tsoapittse was staggering to his feet and shaking his fist at them. The boat with Nash Doitsoh and his men drew nearer. Just as the dragons changed direction and sped off toward Keyah, Tsoapittse turned to face the boat, and splashed through the water, down the shallow underwater beach.

Chapter 29

“Captain!” one of the men called. “Look!” He pointed at the hulking form of the giant who was wading out to meet them. Nash retrieved one of the poles and thrust it down over the port side of the craft. It barely touched bottom. “The water is too deep for us to abandon the boat, but it barely reaches his knees.” Nash threw the pole into the boat and grabbed his oar. “Turn us around!” he yelled, as Tsoapittse drew ever closer. The boat turned slowly, but before they could escape, the giant grabbed the side of the boat with his good arm, shook it, and capsized it. He reached out and grabbed Nash by his mane and dragged him toward shore. The other three men, weighted down by their armor, struggled to surface, and soon gave up the struggle and sank beneath the waves. “Who are you?” The giant dropped him on the beach. He struggled to his feet. “I am Captain Nash Doitsoh.” Tsoapittse prodded the lion-headed man’s chest with his finger. “What are you doing in my boat?” Nash tried to regain his composure. His sword had been lost in the frenzy, but his tsenil was still tucked into his belt. He drew it, and Tsoapittse flicked it from his hands. “I’ll ask you one last time. What were you doing in my boat?” “We were seeking three men—prisoners who escaped.” “Escaped? From where?” “The dungeons on Mount Jinee.” The giant knelt and examined Nash’s black armor. “You are one of Abadon’s men?”

“Aye.” Tsoapittse examined his prisoner with his good eye. “Why were they imprisoned?” “They were from the village of Aravah. All of its people were guilty of insurrection.” The giant took a deep breath. “They are gone. The men you seek are gone.” “They’ve gone to the bridge?” Nash shook his head in exasperation. “At least I have men there who will deal with them.” “Nay,” the giant said. “They left with the dragons.” “Dragons? There are no dragons left.” Tsoapittse shook his head. “There are at least six.” He pointed toward where the dragons had flown off. “Six? But I sought only three men.” “And I know of the three you seek. But there were six who escaped my island.” There was a grating noise from the site of the house. Another bruised and battered giant climbed out of the pit. “Father,” he called, as he fell prostrate on the ground. Tsoapittse forced himself to stand and trudged to where his son Hatali lay. He turned him over. “My son, my son,” he cried. He lifted the limp body and rocked it. Hatali’s eyes fluttered open. “Father, I’m so thirsty.” The giant lowered his son to the ground, searched for anything he could bring water in, and finally discovered a cup, bent and rusty. He plodded to the stream, washed out the cup and filled it, then returned to Hatali’s side. The boy guzzled

down the water. “Mother?” he said. Tsoapittse shook his head. “Gather your strength, and we’ll look for her and your brothers.” Nash crept toward the two giants. “What happened?” He pointed at the pile of debris. Tsoapittse winced as he sat down. “The three young men you sought did what no one else has done.” “What is that?” “They found the talisman.” Nash tipped his head back and roared toward the sky. “No! They cannot.” The giant nodded. “They did. And once they removed it, the protection it provided stopped.” He gestured toward the pile of rubbish behind him. “What was once our home, crumbled to the ground.” Nash shook his mane, sending a shower of water drops flying. “But you said there were six. Who are these other three?” Tsoapittse shook his head. “Two men and a woman. I know not where they came from, or who they were. When I escaped from that pit, they were all here in the meadow. All six of them were carried away by the dragons.” Nash shook his mane again. “But there are no dragons. They were all killed in the Battle of Tihileitsoh.” “So it is said. But today I saw six dragons fly away from my island.” Nash stroked his beard. “Nay, you saw six geese. My men and I saw them from a distance.”

Tsoapittse shoved Nash with his finger, knocking him onto his back. “Do not doubt my word, Captain,” he spat. “I know what I saw.” Hatali’s eyes flew open, and he struggled to sit up. “Who is this man, Father?” Tsoapittse narrowed his eyes. “A treser on our island.” “Friend or foe?” said the boy. “That is yet to be determined.” The giant rose to his feet. “Now let us search for other survivors.” He slogged to the pit and began digging through the rubble. Hatali sank to his knees and helped his father. Nash watched them from a distance, and then began to creep toward the path that led to the bridge. Without looking away from his task, Tsoapittse said, “If you try to leave, you will die.” Nash stopped and looked out into the Sea of Tabass, where the overturned barge bobbed in the waves. After a pause, he turned, crossed the beach, and helped the giants dig through the remains of their home.

Chapter 30

Asur closed his eyes and gripped Nine’s horns. He dared not open them. When they sprang into the air, he’d felt as if his stomach had been left behind on the beach. With each stroke of Nine’s wings, he watched the ground drop away, until he was overcome with such vertigo that he dared look no more. The air rushed past him as his steed rushed through the air. Relax. I will not let you fall, Nine think-spoke. As if to reassure him, she clamped his legs a little tighter with her crest. We are crossing the Plain of Wonadsi. Asur forced one eye open and looked down. They were so high that the ground barely seemed to move beneath them, although the air was streaming past his face. He gazed to the southeast, and in the distance saw Mount Deschee and the peaceful town of Hayeli on its summit. Nine’s wings stroked, and they climbed even higher. Asur closed his eyes again and held onto the dragon’s horns with a death grip. Yozons, with Cha Legai astride, led the flight. See, Abadon is moving his men, she think-spoke. Cha peered down at the plain below. I do not see them. Your eyes are not as good as mine. I think we can go a little closer without being noticed. She began to descend. The other five dragons followed her. I see them, Cha think-spoke. “They all seem to be heading toward Mount Destiny. It is as Sambucus told us.” They were still so high above the ground that the wolacs the men were riding appeared smaller than ants. Cha watched them as Yozons continued to swoop

toward the Swamp of Miasma, and her home on Keyah. We need to get word to Elosha and Johona, Cha think-spoke. When I last saw Sambucus, I asked him to alert them. Perhaps Tsalix can tell him when he delivers the talisman. Cha rode on in silence for a while. It might be more difficult for Tsalix and his friends to reach Mount Deschee, he think-spoke. The path from Miasma has become much more dangerous. The sun had set behind them, and below, campfires sparkled in the twilight as the troops settled for the night. There were so many that Cha lost count. It seems as if all Abadon’s men are being assembled in this spot, he think-spoke. “Aye. It does not bode well, I fear,” Yozons replied. Less than an hour later, the six of them glided down to their home on Keyah. Once inside the enclosure, their riders dismounted. “Do you ever get used to the smell?” Asur waved his hand in front of his face. “Nay,” Lance said. “But we rarely go outside the enclosure.” Cha stroked Yozons between her wings. “Thank you, my friend, for a safe flight home.” You are welcome, the dragons replied, in unison. “We’ll go prepare food,” Velvet said. We can fend for ourselves, Shilloh replied. “As you wish.” Velvet led the others out of the enclosure, down the hall, and into the atrium. Behind them, they heard the tambour door open and close.

“Please have a seat,” she said. “I’ll fix something for dinner.” Kwercus looked around the room before he seated himself. “Where are we?” he said. “It was too dark to see where we were being taken, but the awful smell when we landed makes me think we are on the edge of Miasma.” “We’re in the middle of the swamp,” Lance said. “On a small island.” “Then I suppose we are safe.” Asur nodded. “As safe as anywhere in the kingdom,” Lance said. “No one knows we are here, and no one wants to venture into the swamp.” “And I thought there were no more dragons.” Tsalix said. “It’s a long story.” Lance smiled. “Six of them?” Asur said. “I can see maybe one or two surviving. But six?” Lance chuckled. “Actually, there are nine of them, along with their mother.” “Nine!” Cha said, “When I first arrived, they were nine small dragons—no bigger than lizards. Now, six of them are nearly full grown. The other three are still small. You’ll get to meet them later.” “Cha, I hate to interrupt your story,” Tsalix said, “but we need to find a way to take the talisman to Elosha.” “Aye. And that might be more difficult than we first thought.” Cha turned to where Lance was standing. “When is your father next expected to arrive?” “In three days, if all goes well.” “It was our thought that the three of you might return with Sambucus, to Teless,” Cha said. “But Abadon’s forces are moving toward Mount Destiny, and we’ll need to figure out some way to keep you from being detected.” He took a deep breath. “Unless you split up, and only one of you travels back with Sambucus.”

Tsalix shook his head. “I don’t like that idea. We were sent out together, and we ought to report back together.” “Well, let’s sleep on it. We have a few days to work out a plan.” Velvet stepped back into the atrium. “Dinner is served.”

Chapter 31

“Gloeih!” Hatali shouted, as he helped his wounded brother climb out of the pit. “You are still alive!” “Barely.” Gloeih sank to his knees and shook his head. “Mother?” “Not yet.” Tsoapittse shuddered. “Gloeih, help your brother pull on my arm.” “What?” “My left arm is out of the socket. Help Hatali pull on it and put it back in place.” “Won’t it hurt?” “Of course,” Tsoapittse growled. “But it hurts now, and I can’t use it.” He lay on the ground. The two boys grabbed their father’s arm and pulled. Tsoapittse screamed. With a pop, the arm was reset. The giant rose to his feet and rotated his arm, wincing with the effort. Then he returned to his knees and continued sifting through the remains of his house. Gloeih crawled to the side of the stream and guzzled, before returning to his father’s side. As he knelt, he noticed Nash Doitsoh for the first time. “Who is that, Father?” Without stopping his efforts, the giant said, “He is a captain in Abadon’s army.” “How did he get here?” “He stole our boat.” Gloeih cocked an eyebrow. “What are we going to do with him?” “We’ll decide that later. It’s more important to find your mother and brother.” Tsoapittse stepped back into the pile of debris that provided a way down into the cellar. Nearly an hour ed before he lifted a fallen piece of ceiling and found his wife beneath it. She was lying on her back, and her face was covered with dried blood. With a heave, the giant pushed the from his wife and stepped

to her side. Tears coursed down his face. “Mother!” Hatali called out, as he moved to her side. He lifted his mother’s legs, while Tsoapittse lifted her shoulders and cradled her head against his arm. He looked up at the lip of the pit far above them. “Help me,” he said to his son. “We need to get the staircase back in place so we can carry your mother out of here.” It took considerable effort until they were able to push the fallen stairs back into place. Between the two of them, they carried Coappican up the steps. When they were out of the pit, they placed her on the ground. Gloeih brought a cup of water from the stream and helped wash his mother’s face. As he wiped the blood from her forehead, her eyes fluttered open and she took a deep breath. “Mother! You’re alive.” “I think so,” she wheezed. She raised her hand and felt the lump on her head. Her hair was matted to her head with the dried blood. She tried to sit up but failed and sank back on the ground. “It hurts to breathe,” she whispered. “Just lie quietly,” Tsoapittse said. “We still need to find Sesna.” With that, he and his sons continued digging through the rubble. It was not long before they uncovered the missing boy. A shaft of wood had pierced his chest and pinned him to the ground. It was clear he had not survived. Swamped with grief, they removed his body and placed it next to his mother. She raised herself on one elbow and stroked her son’s hair while she wept. Nash decided that while their attention was focused on their dead son and brother, he might make his escape. He crept toward the trail that wound around the mountain. He had gone nearly a hundred yards, when Tsoapittse called out, “Stop! Or you

will die!” Nash was unsure whether or not to run, but as Hatali rose to his feet, he realized the giant could catch him in a few steps. Nash returned to the side of the pit. Tsoapittse shook his head. Tears were still streaming down his cheeks. “You do not understand, Captain. The trail is booby trapped, and you will forfeit your life if you try to use it.” “I must get to the bridge. My men wait for me there.” “Patience. We have things to do here, and then we may decide to help you.” The giant gathered his two boys, and the three of them trudged to the remains of the barn. They searched through the charred timbers until they found shovels. As if in slow motion, they lumbered back past Coapiccan, crossed over the stream, and began to dig a hole. When it was finished, they returned to Sesna’s body and carried it to the open grave. They lowered the body and began to shovel dirt back into the open pit. Coapiccan wailed. She held one hand against her side and winced with every breath. When the hole was filled, the four giants plopped down on the ground. “We need nourishment,” Tsoapittse said, “or we will perish.” All four turned their heads toward Nash. He rose to his feet and prepared to run for his life. Coapiccan shook her head. “He will not return. It will not matter if he knows the secret.” Tsoapittse nodded. “Hatali, you and your brother go get us food from the larder.” The two boys rose to their feet and plodded up the path that led to the orchard. At the end of the trail, the mountain rose in a sheer cliff of yellow splendor. All the trees in the orchard were in bloom. Petals covered the floor of the grove, except for one tree that stood dead and barren—the last tree in the orchard. The two boys stopped at that tree and looked back at their father for

confirmation. Tsoapittse nodded, and the two giants grasped the branches of the tree and tipped it over, revealing a hole in the ground a half-dozen yards wide. While Hatali stood watch, Gloeih climbed down a ladder, into the hole, and reappeared with a basket full of bread, fruit, and cheese. When he was out of the larder, Hatali pushed the tree back into place. It shook the ground when it fell into place, hiding the room beneath it. They carried the basket to where their father and mother rested on the ground. “Eat, Captain, while we try to decide what to do with you.” Tsoapittse handed Nash a piece of bread and a slab of cheese. While they were gnawing on the bread, Nash said, “There must be some way to the bridge, or else you would not have had a boat there. How do you traverse the mountain?” Tsoapittse glanced up the side of the mountain. “There is a way, Captain. And perhaps the boat was there for some other reason.” “And will you show me?” “Perhaps. But not today. Today we mourn the loss of our son. It is only fitting. Tomorrow we will talk about your problem—and ours, now that the talisman is gone.”

Chapter 32

Sambucus pulled on the reins and brought the wagon to a halt. The two horses pawed the ground, lifted their muzzles, and whinnied. Ahead of them, he could see flickering campfires through the trees. Each time he had traversed the road between Teless and the Swamp of Miasma, the number of camps had grown. He stood on the seat of the wagon and tried to get a better idea of what lay ahead in the twilight. The sun had set a few minutes before, behind the mountains to the west, and dusk was quick to fall across the Plain of Wonadsi. In the distance, he heard the keening cry of a wolac, followed by a dozen answering calls. “Abadon is gathering his forces,” he whispered. Sambucus looked for a place where he might by the camps, but the road ran through the middle of them. He checked to make sure the canvas tarp covered the boxes of food and other provisions. Then, with foreboding, he clucked at the span of horses and flicked them with the reins. As they approached the first encampment, a score of men rose to their feet and unsheathed their weapons. “Halt!” one of the men said. Sambucus stopped the wagon. You must not lie. “Who are you, and where are you going?” “I am Sambucus from Teless, born to the Bitter Root clan. I am hauling a wagonload of provisions.” “Provisions? For whom?” “There are many men camped further up this road.” The guard scratched his head. “That is so. But Teless is not sworn to Abadon. Why would you be taking food to them?” “Do not all men hunger, regardless of their master?”

“Aye, that is true.” “Are we not told to love all men?” The guard laughed. “That may be one of Johona’s teachings, but not one of ours.” “That is true.” Sambucus shrugged. “May I ?” “Just a moment.” The guard returned to his tent and came back to Sambucus with a scroll. “Take this with you, and show it to any who question you. It will keep you from unnecessary grief.” Sambucus took the scroll and nodded. “I thank you, sir.” With that, he clucked to the horses and continued up the road. Well-done. You spoke only the truth. He traveled on through the night, ing dozens of camps. Only three times was he stopped, and when he showed them the parchment scroll, was sent on his way. The sun was peeking over the hills when he finally felt he had ed all of Abadon’s men. He was weary beyond belief and fought to keep his eyes open as he directed the horses into a small glade. He unhitched them from the wagon, placed hobbles on their feet, and left them to graze while he slipped beneath the wagon bed and instantly fell asleep. He awoke to the sound of voices. “What do we have here?” a soft voice said. Sambucus saw the toes of well-worn boots peeking beneath the wagon bed. As carefully as he could move, he rolled out the other side and raised to a crouch. He duck-walked to the back of the wagon. On the other side, he could see two mangy dogs lying in the road. He kept his eye on them as he moved behind his wagon, until he could see the two people who had raised the wagon tarp and were inspecting the contents of his wagon. Neither seemed large, and Sambucus could see no weapons. He took a deep breath and sprang to his feet.

“What do you think you’re doing?!” The two people spun around and ran toward the road. They were dressed in long cloaks, with hoods over their heads. Sambucus jogged after them. As he approached, the two the dogs sprang to their feet, bared their teeth and snarled. “Don’t come any closer, or they’ll tear you apart,” one of the fugitives said, in a squeaky voice. “You’re a girl,” Sambucus said. “So what?” “Why were you pawing through my wagon?” “Why not?” she replied. “You’re tresing on our land.” “Your land?” He turned around. “There’s nothing here but a little glade. Who are you?” Both of them pushed the hoods back, revealing a teenaged boy and girl. They were covered with filth and were as skinny as willows. “I am Junca, and this is my sister, Alisma.” Their dogs continued to snarl. “Tell your dogs I mean no harm,” Sambucus said, in a soothing tone. “And then tell me more why you feel this is your land.” Junca studied him for a moment. “Why are you on this road?” “I am taking a wagonload of provisions to my son and daughter.” “Where do they live?” “Further up the road.” Junca pondered this for a moment, before he turned to the two dogs. “Down.” He pushed his hands downward.

The dogs sank down onto the ground. “That’s better.” Sambucus stepped toward them. He could see the boy was probably no older than fourteen or fifteen. And the girl, a year or two younger. “Where are your parents?” “Gone,” said the boy. “Meaning what?” The girl said, “Captured.” “By Abadon’s forces?” They nodded. “How long ago?” Junca looked at Alisma. “Three weeks ago. They raided our cabin and took our parents with them.” “How did you escape?” “Father told us to hide when he saw the men coming.” A tear ran down Alisma’s cheek. Junca said, “We knew they would have wolacs who could sniff us out. So we rolled in manure before hiding under bales of hay in the barn.” “Obviously, you weren’t discovered.” The boy shook his head. “No. Although, it was a close call when they burned the barn. Alisma and I ran out the back and into the woods, while the smoke hid us.” “And how have you stayed alive since?” “We were able to find some food in the house.”

Sambucus examined the two of them. “But I bet you could stand something to eat.” He walked back to the wagon, untied the tarp, and opened one of the boxes that contained dried fruit. He beckoned to the two young people, and they scarfed the food into their mouths. Sambucus drew cups of water from a container, and they gulped it down. “Show me where your cabin is.” Again, the two exchanged glances, before Junca finally led the way through the curtain of willows that grew on the far side of the glade. On the other side, hidden in the trees, were the remains of a small cabin. The roof and two walls had burned away, leaving little of it undamaged. Sambucus inspected the cabin. “You’ve been living here since your parents were taken away?” “Aye. We have nowhere else to go.” Junca blinked away a tear. “We have hopes that our parents will return.” Not likely. Sambucus looked at the fields behind the barn that were green with the first crop of hay. “Where are your cattle?” Alisma said, “Taken. Driven away by the soldiers.” “Then how will you live?” “We’ll get by,” Junca said. “We’ve made it this far.” “But nearly all your food is gone.” Junca’s shoulders sagged. “We’ll find some, somehow.” Sambucus thought of Lance and Velvet on the island, and how he would feel if they had been abandoned. Yet it was getting more and more difficult to get provisions to them without adding two more mouths to feed. And the secrecy of

Keyah and the dragons would become more and more difficult with two more sets of eyes. Still, he couldn’t leave these two to starve. The wrestling went on in his mind. “Would you two like to come with me? I know a place where you would be safe until your parents return.” “We’ll be all right,” Junca said, with defiance in his voice. “Junca, he’s right. We’re nearly starving now.” Junca stared at his sister. Then the boy’s shoulders dropped. “If you say so.” Sambucus nodded, moved back to where the horses were grazing, led the first one back to the wagon and began hitching it. He was ed a moment later by Junca, who had led the other horse. “You know how to hitch a horse?” “Aye, my father taught me.” He fought back a sob. Sambucus checked the load, tied down the tarp, and helped Alisma to her seat. When the three of them were seated, he clucked to the horses and led them back onto the trail toward the Swamp of Miasma. The dogs followed.

Chapter 33

Captain Nakais knelt before Abadon’s throne. “The three you seek are on Mount Litso. Captain Doitsoh had them isolated. As you know, there is but one way on to the mountain, and he has the bridge secured.” “Is there any other way to escape?” Abadon said, “It has been decades since I have been anywhere near the yellow peak.” “Nay, Sire. The mountain is surrounded by the Sea of Tabass, and beside the bridge is the only harbor. There is no other way off the mountain.” “How many men does he have with him?” “I left three of my most skilled archers with him, plus his own men. They have the prey well-outnumbered.” “Thank you for your report, Captain. You may return to your men.” “As you wish. They have moved with the rest of the troops, toward Mount Destiny.” Abadon nodded and rose from his throne as Captain Nakais backed out of the room. Once the doors closed behind him, Abadon moved to the window that overlooked the ten thousand steps. “They cannot escape again.” He gripped the windowsill until his knuckles turned white. “If they are on the yellow mountain, it must mean they have found the talisman on this mountain and the one on the blue mountain. If they manage to find all three, it could mean disaster.” He rubbed his chin. “Unless I can secure them myself.” He thought back to his first visit to the yellow mountain, and the uneasy truce that had been struck with the giant, Tsoapittse’s father. Abadon had promised protection to their family if they found the yellow talisman and hid it where no man could find it. He shook his head, and his black locks swirled around his face. Even if they are

there, they’ll never find the talisman. The giants have been too careful in hiding it. He returned to his throne and pondered the situation. After a few moments, he struck the gong next to his throne, and his vizier appeared and prostrated himself on the floor. “Rise, rise.” Abadon flicked his hand. “You called?” “Aye. Bring me the priests.” “As you wish.” The vizier backed out of the room. A few minutes later, the priests made entered the throne room. “Master.” The high priest bowed. “I need to know more about the talismans.” “There is not much written.” The old man shook his head. The other priests nodded. “Tell me what is known.” The high priest nodded, “There are three of them—one each on Mount Jinee, Mount Tsood, and Mount Litso.” “I know that,” Abadon spat. “What are they, exactly?” “As we have said before, that is not written.” “What do they do?” The priest shrugged. “All that is written is that the one on Mount Jinee—your mountain, Sire—is the talisman of fire. The one on the blue mountain, Mount Tsood, is the talisman of water. And the one on Mount Litso is the talisman of earth.”

“What does that mean?” Abadon said. “I know not. That is all that is written.” Abadon thought for a moment. “And what happens if they are removed from their mountains?” The high priest glanced at the other priests. “Nothing is written. But it is rumored that they offer special powers to the bearer.” “Special powers?” “I know nothing more.” “Are there other rumors you have not told me?” One of the other priests stepped forward. “It is said they lead the bearer from danger. They protect.” “Where do these rumors come from?” They stood in silence until Abadon’s glare bored down on the high priest. “From the hidden scrolls,” he whispered. “What are these hidden scrolls?” “Bits and pieces of parchment that were found buried in the caves at Acomys. Their truthfulness has never been proven.” “But you believe them?” Abadon growled. The high priest shook his head. “Nay. They are incomplete and open to many interpretations. We place very little value in the writings.” Abadon sat silently for several moments.

“So this talisman from Mount Jinee—this talisman of fire—what could it do?” “We know not.” “Would it set things on fire?” The priests shook their heads. “We know not,” said the high priest. “What about the water one. Would it quench one’s thirst, or cause a flood?” “We know not.” “It seems you don’t know much. I wonder why I even listen to you.” Abadon waved them away. The yellow talisman—the talisman of earth … what in the world could it do? He sat back on his throne and pondered the situation with Nash Doitsoh. He had been searching for the three fugitives for weeks. Why hadn’t he succeeded in capturing them? They were only three young men—boys, really—and Doitsoh had been one of his most successful captains. Was it true that they had found the talisman on Mount Jinee, and it was providing protection to them, as the high priest had said. He stood and paced around the throne room. “Even if that were true, it would protect only the bearer. Unless they’ve retrieved the talisman from Mount Tsood as well and provided protection for another one of them. That still leaves the third one.” He spun around. “And if they find the yellow talisman, they will all have protection!” He sat back down. “Even if they do, they can’t do anything unless they reach the crystal sphere on Mount Destiny. And I’ve gathered all my troops at its base.” A chill ran down his spine. “Which means I’ve left Captain Doitsoh as the only way to capture them on Mount Litso. There are no other troops to back him up. If they have protection, this could be a disaster.” He leapt from the throne and crossed to the map that hung on the wall. The position of all his troops was marked on it. As they moved, the marks moved.

Everyone had been withdrawn from the Plain of Wonadsi. All the troops had been taken from the Sea of Tabass. No men were left guarding the Swamp of Miasma. They were all gathered near the Glittering Peak, Mount Destiny. Have I made an error? Was this whole maneuver a trick by Johona to draw me away from the other mountains? Was all this a lie? Were these men decoys being used to manipulate his decisions? For the first time in decades, Abadon began to doubt the wisdom of his actions. Have I been outthought by my brother? He tilted back his head and screamed so loud it was heard throughout the castle.

Chapter 34

“Captain,” Tsoapittse said. “What is it worth to you to be told the secret of this island?” His swollen eye was healing, and he was able to see through a slit between his puffy lids. “What secret?” Nash replied. “The way to leave.” “Anything I have.” Tsoapittse smiled. “But you have nothing, Captain.” Nash turned around and looked over the Sea of Tabass. “What is it you wish of me?” he said. The giant took Nash’s shoulders between his thumb and forefinger and turned him around. “Only this, Captain—a solemn oath you will reveal none of what you learn to any other soul.” “But why?” Tsoapittse lifted Nash Doitsoh from the ground and placed him in the palm of his other hand. “Captain, we have lived for generations on this island. We have sought our solitude. When it is time for our sons to marry, we will bring other women of our kind to our home. Thus, we will continue to live our sheltered lives. With the loss of the talisman, our lives will become more difficult. We have much to rebuild, but we do not wish to have others intrude. Do you understand?” Nash nodded. “I will honor your request.” “Swear an oath, Captain, and we will show you the way off our mountain.”

“I so swear.” Nash raised his arms above his head. “Good.” Tsoapittse set Nash back down on the ground. Their conversation was interrupted by a cry from Hatali. “Father, the fishman is gone!” “What? How can that be?” Tsoapittse ran to the remnants of their home. Gloeih was standing in the cellar. Most of the debris had been thrown out of the pit. The trough in which Thalcla had been imprisoned was empty. “How did he escape?” the giant bellowed. “The grate is gone.” Gloeih pointed to the opening that led to the sea. Tsoapittse sank to his knees. “Nooo,” he wailed. “Not Thalcla, too.” With a lunge, he returned to his feet and raced to the edge of the water. The Sea of Tabass rippled gently to the shore. “Who is Thalcla?” Nash said. “Our protection from the sea,” Tsoapittse said. “I don’t understand.” The giant took a deep breath before sitting next to Nash. “You know the bridge is the only apparent way onto the island, do you not?” “Aye.” “But we were always somewhat vulnerable from the sea. That is how you arrived, is it not? We were able to capture Thalcla, the son of Lotso, King of the Sea of Tabass, along with his treasure chest, and hold him for ransom.” “Ransom?”

Tsoapittse nodded. “The Maelstrom of Tears. It kept anyone from approaching us by sea. As long as we held Thalcla and kept him safe, his father protected us. Now he is gone.” The giant rested his massive head in his hands. “The talisman and Thalcla.” He shook his head, and his eyes grew wide. “The treasure chest. Is it still there, Gloeih?” “Yes, Father. It’s still here, and still locked tight.” “Perhaps we still have something to bargain with. Bring it out of the cellar.” “What is in the chest?” Nash said. The giant shook his head. “We know not. We have never been able to open it.” Gloeih threw the chest out of the pit and followed it a moment later. He picked up the chest between his thumb and finger, and brought it to his father’s side. “Here, Father.” Nash inspected the chest. “It has a set of runes in the ancient tongue, scribed on this band.” He pointed to one of the metal straps that bound the chest together. “It may be a clue.” Tsoapittse lifted the chest and brought it close to his good eye. “They are too small for me to see.” “Let me look at them,” Nash said. “I am not skilled in the ancient language, but I do know some of the words.” Tsoapittse set the chest down on the sand. Nash bent close and examined at the writing. He could make out little of what it said, but one word stood out. “Let me try opening it.” He pushed against the sides of the chest. Nothing happened. “We could find no lock,” Tsoapittse said. “No keyhole. It has frustrated all our efforts. Can you read the runes?” “A few,” Nash said. “Here it says bosh-keesh.”

“Do you know what that means?” “I think it means side.” Nash pushed on the sides of the box again, but nothing happened. He inspected the writings more closely. “I know this word—ashdla. It means five.” “Five?” Nash nodded. “Let me try this.” He tapped his hand against the side of the box five times. Nothing happened. “Bah. This isn’t working,” Tsoapittse said. “Let me try again.” Nash patted both sides of the treasure chest at the same time. “One … two … three … four … five.” With a hiss, the top sprang open.

Chapter 35

Sambucus pulled back on the reins and brought his team to a halt. The odor of the swamp brought tears to his eyes. Junca and Alisma were gagging. “Why have you brought us to the Swamp of Miasma?” the boy choked out from beneath the kerchief that covered his nose and mouth. “We are headed to an island in its midst.” Sambucus tied the reins to a sapling before uncovering the hidden boat, the tugged on the rope and anchored the boat to the shore. “We need to transfer the contents of the wagon to the boat.” “How do you stand the smell?” Alisma waved her hand in front of her face. “You’ll get used to it. Sort of. Keep the bandanas over your faces.” In less than a half-hour, Sambucus had loaded the boat. Sambucus hid the wagon in a secluded grove, unhitched and hobbled the horses. The two dogs that had followed the wagon lay down in the grass. He climbed onto the boat and beckoned for Junca and Alisma to him. They settled onto the center thwart while Sambucus began using a pole to move the craft away from shore. They traveled through the pea-green waters of the swamp. “How far is the island?” Junca said. “Far enough that no one else visits it.” Sambucus leaned on the pole. “Can I help?” “As long as you move us the direction we need to go.” Junca picked up the other pole and stood next to Sambucus. “The bottom is soft and tries to suck the pole from your hands. Be careful.” They waded through the swamp. Frequently, bubbles broke the surface, intensifying the fetid odor of decay. A pair of rough-backed reptiles churned to the surface, took a breath through their pointed snouts, and disappeared beneath the water. Swarms of mosquitoes buzzed around their heads in a feeding frenzy. It was hard to swat at them and keep the pole from slipping from their hands.

Alisma waved her hands at the voracious bugs as they attacked her face and arms. “I can see why no one else comes here,” Junca said, out of breath. “What is on the island?” Sambucus pushed the boat in silence. Finally, he said, “It will be quite a surprise, I think.” Eventually, they reached the island, and the door of the enclosure flew open as Velvet and Lance raced down the path to the boat. “Father—” Velvet noticed the other two people in the boat. “Who … who are these?” Sambucus hugged his daughter. “Two young people left homeless by Abadon’s wrath.” “You feel it is all right to bring them here?” she whispered. “Aye. It is time. Abadon has gathered all his forces near Mount Destiny. I was stopped and questioned.” “If you say so, Father.” Cha, Tsalix, and the others burst through the door. “When did they arrive?” Sambucus said. “A few days ago,” Velvet said. “We rescued them from Mount Litso.” “Rescued? How?” “It’s a long story, Father. Let’s wait until we have the provisions unloaded and are inside where we can breathe more easily.” All nine of them carried the boxes and bundles into the enclosure. With so many helping, it took but a few minutes. When they finished, they sat in the atrium, all of them awaiting answers.

Lance said, “Father, why don’t you introduce us to your friends.” Sambucus smiled. “This is Junca and his sister, Alisma. Their house was destroyed, and their parents taken, by Abadon’s forces. They were starving when I found them.” The two young people studied their sandals and avoided looking at any of the others. “I could not leave them to die.” “I understand,” Lance said. Sambucus looked at Tsalix. “So you survived Mount Litso.” “Barely. If it had not been for Cha and your children…” “And did you find what you were searching for?” Asur nodded. “Aye. At the very last minute, thanks to some help.” “Help?” “From Thalcla, another captive.” Asur removed the talisman from his pocket and showed it to Sambucus. “He is the son of Lotso, King of the Sea of Tabass. He solved the mystery of the talisman and helped us escape.” “And how did you get here, to Keyah?” Lance stood and studied Junca and Alisma. “With some help from our friends.” He jerked his head toward the dragons’ quarters. Sambucus raised an eyebrow, then nodded. “I wondered why six, but now I guess we know.” Velvet looked at the two teens her father had brought to the island. “It seems we may need to let Seven, Thirteen, and Sixteen grow as well.”

Junca looked up. “Who are they?” Lance looked at his sister, and then at Cha. “I suppose they need to know everything about Keyah.” He turned to his father. “Has it become too dangerous for you to bring the wagons?” “Perhaps. Let us have something to eat while we decide what to do next.”

Chapter 36

Tsoapittse bent over and examined the contents of the chest. It was filled with a collection of strangely shaped gray stones. He beckoned to Nash. “What are these things?” The chest was too small to accommodate his fingers. Nash removed one of the objects. It was about six inches long and curved like a crescent moon. He weighed it in his hand. It was fairly heavy. He tapped the solid surface with a fingernail. “I know not,” he said. “Are they all the same?” Tsoapittse said. Nash dropped the piece he was examining onto the sand at his feet, and removed another object from the chest. “Nay, they are all different.” A wave rippled toward him. When it reached the chunk of gray stone lying on the sand, the object began to dance in the water. It skittered on the surface before sending a fountain of sparks into the air, followed by an ear-splitting explosion that threw Nash backward onto the sand. Tsoapittse threw his hands over his ears and roared in pain. The chest snapped shut as his wife and children screamed and fell prostrate on the beach. Before Nash could regain his feet, a voice raced across the water. His ears were so badly damaged from the explosion that he couldn’t make out what was being said. He forced himself into a sitting position and blinked in astonishment. Out on the Sea of Tabass, where the gentle, sloping shelf ended, a man rose from the sea. His hair and beard were encrusted with shells and starfish. He pointed at the chest. “Return my treasure chest,” he thundered. Tsoapittse raised to his knees. He shook his head in a vain attempt to clear his ears.

“Lotso!” “The king of the Sea of Tabass.” Nash’s hearing began to return to normal. “Aye,” he rumbled. “Give me my chest.” Tsoapittse put his hand on his son’s shoulder and pushed to his feet. “And what will you give me in return?” he said. There was a pause while Lotso dipped beneath the water before returning to the edge of the submerged shore. “My son has returned unscathed. Had he been injured, I would have had my revenge. If you return my treasure, I will let you live.” Tsoapittse roared with laughter. “Do not think you can frighten me with vain threats. I know you cannot come any closer to my home.” Lotso pushed himself onto the shelf, where the water was only a few feet deep, and swam closer to the shore. “I am warning you, Tsoapittse. If you do not return the chest, you will die.” Nash looked back and forth between the two combatants. He was about to try to run to safety, when Lotso called to the giant. “Who is this lion-headed man, Tsoapittse? Have you taken to raiding Saond?” Tsoapittse gestured to his wife and sons with a twitch of his head, and they began creeping away from the beach. “He is Captain Nash Doitsoh, one of Abadon’s men. He came here of his own accord.” Lotso considered this for a moment. “Captain, I would suggest you look for a way off this island before I destroy Tsoapittse and his family.” Nash looked up at the giant next to him.

“Wouldn’t it be wise to return the chest? We know it contains nothing of value.” “Silence!” Tsoapittse rubbed his chin with his right hand. His left arm was still bothering him. He looked out at the merman who periodically dunked his head beneath the water. “Lotso, just how do you propose to harm me when you can come no closer?” A brittle smile formed on Lotso’s face. “Have you ever seen a tsunami?” “What is that?” Lotso’s smile turned to a grimace. “This is your last chance. Return the chest, or feel my wrath.” Tsoapittse picked up the chest between his thumb and finger. “I think not.” He turned and began marching up the beach, toward the ruins of his home. Nash watched as Lotso dipped beneath the gentle waves and disappeared. Something in the merman’s demeanor sent chills down Nash’s spine. He ran to catch up with Tsoapittse. “You promised to show me a way off the island if I swore secrecy.” “Are you worried about that … that fish?” Nash rubbed his beard. “I’m just anxious to return to my men.” Tsoapittse nodded his head and called to his sons. “Show the captain the ageway to the mainland.” Gloeih shrugged and moved toward the dead tree that opened the larder. He and Hatali pulled the tree over, revealing the root cellar below.

“This way.” Hatali crooked his finger toward Nash. The giant boy picked him up and carried him down the staircase into the storeroom. On the far side of the room, Gloeih removed a bag of grain that rested against a set of floor-to-ceiling shelves filled with covered crocks. Then he swung the shelves forward on hidden hinges, revealing a tunnel behind. “Where does this go?” Nash peered into the darkness. “Beneath the mountain and under the sea,” Gloeih said. “The other end emerges from a pile of rocks.” “Is there any light?” “Nay. But the way is straight. Just keep moving until you find where the floor of the tunnel slopes upward. There is a door hidden in the rocks.” Nash stepped into the tunnel, and Gloeih pushed the shelves back into place. The lion head was in total darkness. He put his ear to the back of the shelves and heard Gloeih and Hatali climb the stairs and close the entrance. He placed his hand on the wall and began trekking up the tunnel. He had traveled nearly a mile before a huge wave rose from the Sea of Tabass and scoured Mount Litso, carrying the treasure chest back home, along with four gigantic forms.

Chapter 37

“There has been a great disturbance on Mount Litso,” Johona said. “It is said that Tsoapittse and his family may have been carried out to sea by a tsunami.” Elosha exhaled a mighty breath. “What could they have done to offend Lotso?” He shook his head. “Are you sure?” “It is only rumor, but fishermen on the Sea of Tabass reported that a great wave rushed toward Mount Litso and scoured the land.” Elosha straightened. “What about our three chosen ones. Were they not on Litso?” Johona dipped his head. “Perhaps, Father.” A tear formed in his eye. “I hope not, or this is all for naught.” Elosha thought for a minute. “Send Atsah to Mount Litso. Have him see what he can see.” “As you wish, Father.” Johona left the throne room and climbed the spiral staircase to the aerie, where the huge eagle rested on its perch with his head beneath his wing. He stroked the bird’s neck, and its yellow eyes opened. “Atsah, my friend, there seems to have been great commotion on Mount Litso. Will you fly there and bring us word?” The eagle flexed its wings. “Of course, my prince.” The massive bird launched into the air and began circling to gain height. A strong breeze drove him northward over the Plain of Wonadsi. He was almost out of sight, a mere speck in the sky, before he flew away to the west. Johona watched until he could no longer see his messenger. Atsah flew over the edge of Shayeksten, the Desert of Desolation, and felt the thermal currents rising from its barren surface. It lifted him even higher in the

sky and allowed him to glide above the land. He drifted to the west until the Tohkal River was below him, flowing into the Bay of Nihlini. With strokes of his powerful wings, he crossed the Sea of Tabass. In vain, he searched for the Maelstrom of Tears, but it seemed to have disappeared. At last, he circled over the five spires of Mount Litso. Atsah spiraled down until he could see where Tsoapittse’s home had been. There was nothing to show where it had once stood. A beach of sand and gravel led from the sea to the foothills. A few remnants of tree branches poked a few inches out of the sand. There was no sign of life. The eagle landed on the beach and dug into the sand with his beak. It was still moist beneath the surface. He turned his attention to the branches sticking out of the sand. They had been stripped of leaf and blossom, leaving stark fingers pointing to the sky. Must have been a mighty wave. It has leveled the ground and left nothing but barren sand. With a flap of his wings, the bird took to the air. He drove upward until he crested the middle peak and settled on it. He scanned the scene before him. The bridge that had connected the island to the mainland was gone, swept away by the tsunami. Atsah looked further inland. The mountain had provided some protection from the wave, but still there were signs of destruction and desolation. He spotted an area that once might have been a campground hidden in a grove of trees, but little remained, and it was clear the water had inundated the camp. Probably raced around both ends of the island and caught the bridge between the surging waves. He was about to return home, when two things caught his eye—the carcasses of several wolacs lying on the ground not far from the camp, partially buried. And the flicker of motion in a pile of rocks further into the woodlands. Atsah launched and glided over the scene. When he was convinced the wolacs were dead, he shifted his focus to the rocks. He was just about to land and examine them when one side of the mound swung open, revealing a cave. A lion-headed man emerged from the cavern. Atsah floated silently above the man, studying him. When he was sure he had identified him, he climbed into the skies and began the trip home. He scoured the surface of Tabass, searing for the whirlpool, but it was nowhere to be found.

Perhaps whatever offended the water god has been answered. Atsah rose until he found the south wind, and rode its currents home. That’s strange. I see none of Abadon’s forces along the shores of Tabass. Nor are there any in Shayeksten. A few hours later, he returned to his aerie. He plucked the cord that rang a bell in the throne room, and a few minutes later Johona appeared. “My friend, you have traveled far today. What did you discover?” “It is as you feared. It appears a wave erased the giants’ home. I saw no evidence that they withstood the wave.” “And Tsalix and his friends?” “I saw no sign of them either. It appears only one person survived.” Johona’s eyes flew open. “Who?” “Unless I am mistaken, it was Captain Nash Doitsoh, of the lion’s head.” “He was on the island?” The eagle shook his head. “Nay, he emerged from a cavern on the mainland. He may have taken refuge there. It was far enough away from the shore for him to survive. It appears the rest of his men were swept away. Their wolacs lay dead where they had been grazing, and their campground was no more.” Tears streamed down Johona’s cheeks. “If Tsalix is gone, his mission has been in vain. Are you sure there was no one else alive on the mountain?” “I’m afraid not, my prince.” After a moment of silence, Johona stroked Atsah’s head and neck. “Thank you for all you’ve done.” The eagle nodded. “There is one other thing, my prince. For whatever reason, all

your brother’s troops have abandoned their posts. I saw none of them at either sea or desert.” Johona lowered his head. “I know. Rest well, my friend. There are dark days ahead.”

Chapter 38

Waves of pain racked Tsoapittse as he tried to stroke with his injured arm. Panic crawled through him like a host of spiders. He was almost out of breath. The wave had sucked him under the sea and sent him tumbling through the water, dizzy and disoriented. He searched for something that would tell him the way to the surface. He took a few panicked strokes before he noticed bubbles rising past him. His lungs were bursting, but he followed the bubbles. Each stroke sent fire racing through his shoulder. Just as he was about to give up and drown, his head popped out of the water. He took gulps of air before more ripples of panic flew through him. He searched for any signs of his wife and sons, and when none appeared, he tilted back his head and screamed. Beneath him, Lotso, King of the Sea of Tabass, and his son, Thalcla, swam in circles. “Shall I pull him under?” Thalcla said. “The Maelstrom could suck him to the bottom.” “Nay, he will suffer more knowing that he is alone, and that he is responsible for the death of his family.” The king swished his tail and swam toward the bottom of the sea. Thalcla followed him while Tsoapittse struggled to stay afloat. The treasure chest was lying half-buried in the sandy bottom of the Sea of Tabass. Lotso swam to where it lay and examined the lid. “How did they open it?” he said. “Father, what is the treasure?” said Thalcla. “It is a great gift from Elosha. When his son Abadon set fire to the kingdom, and the rains came to quench the flames, Elosha entrusted this gift to us—the gift of fire. You saw what can happen if it is used unwisely. The treasure must be protected at all costs.” Thalcla hung motionless for a moment.

“Father, I opened the chest.” Lotso swam to his son’s side. “Why, my son?” “There were these three men that Tsoapittse had captured. They vowed to help me escape if I helped them find what they were seeking.” “Still, why did you open the chest?” Thalcla gathered his thoughts. “They had searched the entire cellar without success. The only place they had not looked was inside the treasure chest.” “But you knew it was not inside, did you not?” Thalcla nodded. “But they did not know.” Lotso sighed. “So you let them see the treasure.” “And they searched without finding the talisman.” “The talisman! They sought the talisman?” “Aye. And I helped them find it.” “Who were these three men, and who sent them?” “They are called Tsalix, Asur, and Kwercus. They were sent by Elosha.” Lotso swam in a lazy circle. “Could the prophecy be fulfilled?” “Prophecy? What prophecy?” “That three men would lead six others to retrieve the Scepter of Power.” Lotso looked up through the water, to where Tsoapittse was struggling to reach the island. “What was the talisman, and how had the giant hidden it?” “A yellow stone inscribed with IX. He had hidden it in the face of a clock amidst eleven others. What I don’t understand, Father, is why he would even let them look for it. He could have kept it hidden and never let them search.” “You do not understand, my son. Whoever has the talisman earns protection

from it. But only if he does not try to deceive others about its whereabouts.” Lotso swam to the chest and lifted it from the sand, then swam toward their home beneath the sea. “No wonder Tsoapittse was vulnerable. He has lost the protection of the charm.”

On the surface, the giant floated on his back and stroked toward the shore as pain shot through his whole body. Periodically he would roll over and search the surface for any sign of his family. None appeared. After two hours of agony, he reached the shallow shelf. He staggered to his feet and waded through the water, to the sandy shore. Sobs racked his body as he saw the total destruction that lay before him. He peered out to sea, searching for any sign of his wife and sons, to no avail. He sat on the shore and placed his massive head in his hands, weeping. The sun was sinking in the sky, and the shadow of the peaks crept over his shoulders like a mourner’s cape. Tsoapittse raised to his feet and stumbled toward the remnants of his orchard. The trees were covered with a layer of sand, the tips of the branches barely visible. With some difficulty, he identified the tree that guarded the larder. He sank his hands into the sand that surrounded it, and began to uncover the tree trunk. The moon rose high in the sky before he finished his task. With a heavy heart, he searched the placid surface of the sea one last time, before tipping the tree over and entering the cellar. He plodded through the tunnel until he reached the mound of rocks that guarded the other end. The spring-loaded doorway sprang open at his touch, and he stepped on to the mainland for the first time in over fifty years. Tsoapittse looked back toward the island and wept before making his way toward the trail that led to the Bay of Nihlini. The stench of the rotting wolacs assailed his nostrils, and he hurried past. He saw the remains of the camp, but no men. He sighed as he thought about the tsunami that had carried so much out to sea. By morning, he had ed the bay and began following the Tohkal River. By noon, he had reached the spot he sought, where the cliffs of the high plateau turned further to the west. Tsoapittse tilted his head back and gazed at the edge of the tableland above him. He swung his left arm back and forth, trying to loosen it up, and with a deep breath, began climbing the cliffs next to a waterfall. Steps cut into the rock provided places to gain purchase. Twice his arm nearly failed him, but eventually he dragged himself over the edge of the plateau and sank to the ground, wheezing.

He guzzled from the stream that fed the waterfall, before turning to the west and continuing his journey. His homeland, Ditsoh, the land of giants, laid ahead—a three- to four-day journey. He only hoped their memories were short.

Chapter 39

“Seven, Thirteen, and Sixteen seem eager to their sisters,” Velvet said to Cha. “I wonder what their mother thinks?” Velvet shrugged. “Perhaps we should ask her.” She took Cha’s hand and led him to Nashoi’s room. Gently, she knocked on the door before opening it. The enormous dragon lay on the shelf in her room. She appeared to be sleeping. Cha started to tiptoe from the room, when Nashoi opened one golden eye. “It is time,” she rumbled. “They will do well.” The eye closed. Velvet squeezed Cha’s hand. “It is as I thought.” The touch of Velvet’s hand sent feelings through Cha that he’d never felt before, and his cheeks began to burn. Nashoi opened her eye again and smiled. “It is time.” Cha and Velvet left Nashoi’s room, hand in hand. Velvet smiled at him “You seem nervous.” “No—well…” They entered the atrium and sat on one of the couches. “Velvet, it’s hard to explain.” “Try.” They sat silently while Cha tried to form the words. “It’s just that … I don’t understand many of the things I’m feeling.” “Like what?”

He cleared his throat. “Like you and your brother. I mean, I might have brothers … or sisters … but I have no idea who they are. I don’t even know who my parents are.” Velvet wrinkled her forehead. “How can that be?” Cha’s shoulders sank. “Many weeks ago, as we traveled along the high plateau, Tsalix tried to explain the idea of a family.” He shook his head. “When you were reared as I was, that is an entirely new concept. I was raised to be a soldier and was taken from my mother’s arms when I was born.” “You don’t know who your mother is?” Velvet said. Cha shook his head again. “Nay. Only my overseer, who taught me to fight and bear pain.” Velvet nodded. “Of all Abadon’s evil, that may be the most reprehensible.” Cha scratched the floor with the toe of his boot. “So anyway, these feelings I’m having are new to me.” “You still haven’t told me what these feeling are.” Velvet smiled. “I like you,” Cha blurted. “I like you as a woman, not just as a friend.” His face burned. Velvet reached out with her other hand and took his. “And I like you, Cha Legai.” He pulled his hands away. “But I have led such a wretched life.” Velvet turned toward him. “Cha, the past is behind you. The future yet to be determined. We live for the present.” She leaned forward and kissed him on his mouth. At first, he knew not what to do. But soon he returned the kiss. “Now was that so bad?” she said.

“I feel so unworthy.” “Well, there is much to do that lies ahead of us.” She rose to her feet and helped Cha to stand. “You are a good man, Cha, and there are so many evil ones out there.” He stood speechless until Velvet began to walk down the corridor toward the dragons’ enclosure. He followed her as she knocked on the door and then entered the room. Thirteen had flown to the top of one of the cabinets that lined one wall. Seven and Sixteen were chasing each other around the room. “Ladies,” Velvet said, “are you ready to your sisters?” The three small dragons scrambled and fluttered to the door that led to the large workout room. Velvet opened it, and they scampered into the room. Six large dragons welcomed them with a hissing sound and a burst of flame. Yozons emerged from her enclosure and greeted the three new charges. “Follow me.” She led them to their new homes. “Make yourself comfortable.” She turned to where Velvet and Cha were standing. “They will begin to grow.” “Thank you, my friend.” Cha waved. “We’ll leave you to the training.” When Cha and Velvet returned to the atrium, the others had gathered and were discussing what their next steps should be. “I cannot abandon the horses,” Sambucus said. “I must take them back to Teless.” “We’ll go with you,” Junca said. “I think it would be better if I traveled alone. The scroll I bear mentions only one.” Kwercus stood and began to pace. “What about the talisman? It needs to be taken to King Elosha.” Sambucus thought for a moment. “If I take it with me, it might be lost if I am stopped and searched.”

Velvet smiled. “But they would not search me, would they?” “I know not. They are a rough crew and may not honor women.” Tsalix stood up and began to pace. “I have a feeling that once Asur, Kwercus, and I have found the talisman, we are not to give it to anyone else, regardless of how much we trust them. I think the three of us need to make our way back to Mount Deschee. How we do that is still a mystery to me, but I know we need to keep the talisman safe.” Sambucus nodded. “What you say makes sense.” He rose to his feet. “I need to take the wagon and the horses back to Teless. I have already sent word to Elosha that Abadon’s troops are gathering at the foot of Mount Destiny, but he does not know the third talisman has been retrieved. Perhaps I can get word to him, and Johona can send troop to assist you in your return to Deschee.” “What about Junca and Alisma?” Tsalix said. “Do they just stay here?” “Of course,” Lance replied. “They are welcome.” He smiled at the two young people. “I’ve been thinking. It will take several days until the last three dragons reach full size, and a few more days to train them. Perhaps if we wait until Father reaches Teless and sends word to Johona, they will be ready to carry riders. If Father alerts Elosha and Johona that we are coming, we could mount the dragons and fly to the top of Mount Deschee. That would get us and the talisman safely to the King without duly alarming the people in Hayeli.” Sambucus considered his son’s solution. “That seems like a workable plan,” he said. “Especially if you came in the middle of the night, when all are asleep.” Asur felt the talisman in his pocket begin to vibrate. “As fine a solution as you’ve posed, Lance, I feel Tsalix, Kwercus, and I may have to travel by ourselves to Hayeli.” Tsalix looked at his friend. “Why, Asur?” Asur removed the yellow stone from his pocket. It glowed with a dull sheen and shook in his hand.

“I think it is telling us we need to go.” Kwercus put forth his hand and took the talisman. He closed his eyes as he felt the stone grow warm in his grasp. Leave today and take me to the king. The words resonated in his mind as clearly as if they’d been spoken. “I agree,” he said. “We need to leave with Sambucus. We’ll travel with him a short time, and then find our own way to the king.” Kwercus handed Tsalix the talisman, and as soon as he held it, he knew Kwercus was right. He reached out to Asur. “Keep it safe.” Asur shook his head. “You keep it, Tsalix. Somehow I think all of this points to you.” Tsalix nodded and placed the talisman in his pocket. “When are you leaving?” he said to Sambucus. “In the morning.” “Then if you’ll take us in your boat, we’ll leave with you.” “Aye. In the morning.”

Chapter 40

Nash Doitsoh staggered down the trail. That morning, he had eaten the last of the meager provisions he carried with him. Now he was hungry and thirsty. He berated himself for not traveling back down the tunnel and retrieving some food from the giants’ larder before beginning his march. The sun had set an hour before, and he was trying to make as much progress as possible before total darkness set in. Not only were the last three of his men gone —the archers swept away by the tidal wave—but he was without sword or tsenil. Sweat dripped from the fringe of his beard, and his mane was plastered against his head. Nash knew the Bay of Nihlini was ahead on the trail where the Tohkal River poured into the Sea of Tabass, but he was unsure how far ahead. Once the sun set, it was difficult to determine exactly where he was on the trail. Overcome by fatigue, he stopped and sank to the ground. H used his keen hearing to search for any sounds that would tell him where he was, but he heard nothing except the rustle of the undergrowth as unseen creatures began their nighttime foraging. “How can they have escaped?” he muttered. “Who is it that helped them?” He ran his hands through his mane. “Dragons? There are no dragons. Yet Tsoapittse claimed to have seen three people arrive on dragons. Can it be?” His mind sifted memories like flour through a sieve. “Once was said that Abadon kept the last remaining dragons alive near the border with the Kingdom of Nilchi, northeast of Mount Jinee. I always thought it was idle rumor, but what if it’s true?” He shook his head. “But then Abadon would be aiding the fugitives. That makes no sense.” He rose to his feet and continued toward the Tohkal River, when an alarming thought popped into his head. What if this has all been a ruse? What if Abadon has sent me on a fool’s errand? Panic shot through his body like an electric shock. “Has he learned of my plans to remove him once the battle is over and he has ascended to the throne?” Nash shook his head. “I have confided this to no one. How could he know?” He threw back his head and howled. “He sent me to die! Somehow, he found out and he sent me on this accursed journey. Just as I was

about to capture the bait he threw before me, he sent dragons to save them.” Nash felt fury boiling within him like lava, and he began to inspect every step of his futile pursuit of his prey. “First, they escaped from the dungeons. Ha! No one has ever escaped from the dungeons before. I should have been more suspicious. But how was I to know? I had just been defeated by Johona’s forces while trying to quell a disturbance at Nanish, the mine at Hagade, and I was vulnerable. When Abadon sent me to capture the three escapees, I should have sensed a trap.” He shuddered as he contemplated the enormity of the deception. “Then when we capture them crossing Shayeksten, and they are able to escape during the windstorm, the haboob. I should have known Abadon was creating the storm—it seemed unnatural.” Despite his hunger and thirst, Nash picked up the pace. “Then he led them to Saond, knowing that if I set foot inside that place I’ll be killed by my own people. And while I kept watch outside the gates, those vermin escaped again.” He shook his head in frustration. “If only I hadn’t trusted him, I’d have been able to see the genius of his plan.” Night had fallen, and the trail was even more difficult to follow. Nash was forced to slow down to keep from losing his way. “Nakais, that traitor, was sent to make sure I failed.” A new thought rumbled through his brain. And if I had been closer to succeeding, no doubt he would have captured or killed me—he had superior forces. Nash shook his head. “I should have seen it. We finally have the scum surrounded with no way to escape, Nakais deserts me, and at my moment of success, Abadon rescues them by awakening his dragons—and leaving me in the clutches of a giant!” He cocked his head and listened. In the distance, he could hear the sound of running water. His thirst drove him on until he reached the Tohkal River. He

dropped to his knees and guzzled from a branch of the stream. When he had slaked his thirst, he waded across the river delta to the place where, days before, he had camped with his men. A discarded pack hung from a tree. He rummaged through it and found a few morsels of food, which he scarfed down. Soaked and cold, he sank down on the ground, exhausted and shivering. He closed his eyes, and the last thoughts he had before he fell asleep were, If I am on my own, what do I do next?

Chapter 41

Tsalix, Asur, and Kwercus wrapped cloths around their faces and followed Sambucus out of the enclosure and into the boat. “It helps kill the stink a little,” he said. “They stepped gingerly from the dock into the waiting craft, and pushed off into the swamp, where they took turns polling themselves through the putrid waters. At length, they reached the edge of the swamp and hid the boat. They were greeted by the whinnying of a horse as they approached the wagon. “What is your plan?” Sambucus said. Tsalix shaded his eyes from the sun and looked over the Plain of Wonadsi. “If all is as we have been told,” he replied, “Abadon’s troops have been withdrawn from the plain. We should be able to travel unimpeded.” Sambucus nodded. “I hope you are right. I have never known the black prince to leave the land completely unguarded.” He began hitching the horses to the wagon. “Whatever you do, protect the talisman.” “Aye. With all our hearts.” Tsalix shifted his pack to his shoulders. “Come, my friends. Our journey begins.” He clapped Sambucus on the shoulder. “Thank you for all your help. May peace go with you.” “I should be safe.” Sambucus reached inside his tunic to ensure the scroll was still there. He climbed onto the seat of the wagon and clucked to his horses, then waved farewell as he started down the trail. “Be safe, my friends.” Kwercus watched him go. “He is a good man with a good family.” He shifted his pack. “Which way, Tsalix?” Tsalix squinted and glanced at the sun.

“This way.” He stepped off the pathway that bordered the Swamp of Miasma and strode onto the Plain of Wonadsi. Kwercus and Asur followed. After traveling for a half-hour, Kwercus said, “What do you think of Cha?” Asur replied, “He seems a changed man.” “Aye, it’s hard to put your finger on it,” Kwercus said, “but he’s much different from the man who helped us escape from the dungeons on Mount Jinee.” “Maybe it’s the dragons,” Asur said. “He seems to have done a good job in training them.” Tsalix smiled. “I think it’s more than that. I think he fancies Velvet.” “Well, she’s winsome enough,” Kwercus said. “Did you not see the way the two of them look at each other?” Tsalix said. “I think the warrior has been tamed by feelings he’s never felt before.” Asur chuckled. “Worse things could happen.” They walked on until the sun began to set. They had seen nothing of Abadon’s troops and had made good time. “What is that?” Kwercus pointed into the shadows. Tsalix altered his course and led them to the ruins of a wagon that had been partially burned. “A supply wagon,” he said. “Why here?” said Kwercus. “Why burned?” Tsalix pondered for a moment. “At one time, this must have been an encampment of Abadon’s men. When they were summoned to Mount Destiny, they burned whatever was left behind.” “Why?” Asur said.

“So the place would offer no help to anyone else. That always seems to be Abadon’s strategy.” Tsalix knelt on the ground next to the remains of the wagon. “I think it means something else,” he said. “What?” said Asur. “I think it means they know they will not be coming back.” A chill ran down Asur’s spine. “Why not?” “Because they have gathered for the final battle,” Tsalix said. “Abadon has been preparing for years. He trained his men and hardened them for war.” He stood. “There is little time to spare.” Asur nodded. “I fear you are right, my friend. Tsalix took a deep breath. “Nevertheless, we cannot go on forever without food and rest. I see no campfires flickering in the distance, so I think we are safe from detection. Let us stop, sleep, and regain our strength. Then we’ll push on as fast as we can travel, in the morning.” An hour later, they had eaten their meal and spread their bedrolls to prepare for the night. The moon cast ghostly shadows over the landscape as they drifted off to sleep.

Sambucus led his horses down the trail. He had been traveling less than an hour before they came to the first contingent of soldiers. “Halt!” one of the men said. Sambucus pulled back on the reins and brought the horses to a stop. “Who are you, and what are you doing?” “I am Sambucus from Teless. I have been delivering supplies, and I’m now going home.” Several of the troops lifted the tarp out of the wagon and searched through its folds, while others inspected the bed of the wagon. Sambucus removed the scroll from his tunic and presented it to the leader of the men. “Captain,” he said. “Just a lieutenant.” The man unrolled the document, and after inspecting it, he returned it to Sambucus. “On the way.” “Thank you.” He clucked to his horses and moved the wagon forward. “Wait,” the lieutenant said. “Who were you taking supplies to?” “Those further up the road.” “But we are the north-most post.” Sweat began to trickle down Sambucus back. “Are you sure?” He forced a smile. “So we were told,” the lieutenant said. Sambucus swung his head back and forth slowly, as if he were checking to make sure no one else heard him. Then he leaned down until his lips were near the soldier’s ear.

“Lieutenant, do you believe everything you’ve been told?” “Of course not,” the man snapped. “I only live to serve.” “You are a wise man.” Sambucus winked. He then clucked to his horses again and trotted out of the camp, while the lieutenant wondered what his commander had not told him.

Chapter 42

Captain Nash Doitsoh ignored the grumbling of his stomach while he forged onward up the trail. He reached the junction where the trail split—toward Mount Deschee to the east, or north toward the town of Atsanh. With every step Nash became more and more convinced that Abadon had ferreted out his plan to dispose of the black prince after the final battle was over, and become the ruler of the kingdom. He was also sure that Abadon had sent him on this mission, knowing Nash would fail and likely be killed. He gnashed his teeth in frustration and sought a place to rest for a few moments. The sun was high overhead, and he was faint with hunger. Nash plodded into a glade of trees and looked up at the edge of the high plateau. “It was not far from here that the fugitives escaped,” he muttered under his breath. He sat on a fallen log and tried to ignore the pangs of hunger, while attempting to calm his mind as he pondered the possibilities that lay ahead. “I must have something to eat. The nearest town, Atsanh, is up the Tohkal River. Surely they will offer me food, as well as provide weapons.” His hands flew to his sides where his sword and tsenil had rested before he’d been disarmed by the giant Tsoapittse. “Then I must travel to Mount Jinee.” His mind whirled. “But why? If Abadon believes he has sent me to my death, I will not be welcomed. And if I am wrong in believing this treachery, then I have failed again in capturing the fugitives, and the black prince made it clear that this was my last chance.” He shuddered at the thought of what his punishment might be. Regardless, he needed food. After resting for a while, Nash turned toward the north, and by sunset had reached the outskirts of Atsanh. A trumpet sounded from a tower as he approached the drawbridge that led into town, and people began scurrying into their homes and shops, and closing the doors. Although faint with hunger, Nash sprang forward and stopped a child who was fleeing toward one of the small

houses near the edge of the town. The child began to scream at the top of his lungs. The house’s door sprang open, and a woman rushed toward Nash and the boy, with a broom in her hands. “Let him go!” She began to pummel Nash with the broom. He put up one hand to ward off the blows. “I mean no harm.” He sank to his knees. “I need food.” The woman continued to beat him with the broom, while the boy broke loose and ran into the house. Once he was inside, the woman gave Nash a final blow before spinning around and rushing into the house. Nash tried to push himself to his feet, but his strength failed him and he fell prostrate on the ground. He lay there for several minutes, before he felt the toe of a boot prodding his side. He forced himself to turn over, and looked into the eyes of a man who stood above him with sword in hand. “What do you want?” the man said. “A morsel of food.” “Who are you? You wear the colors of the black prince.” Nash considered his situation. “I am Nash Doitsoh, from the Kingdom of Saond.” The man’s eyes opened wide. “And what brings you to Atsanh, from across the Sea of Tabass?” “I was held captive on the yellow mountain, but I escaped.” The man took a step away from Nash. “You were on Mount Litso? Why?” Nash struggled to come up with a suitable answer. “I was shipwrecked and captured by the giant Tsoapittse.” He licked his lips. “Who are you?”

“I am the mayor of Atsanh.” Nash closed his yellow eyes while he thought of a strategy that might help his situation. “I seek only food, and I’ll continue on my way.” The mayor considered his answer. “If we feed you, you must promise to leave immediately.” Nash nodded. “Aye, I promise.” “An oath.” “Aye. I make an oath to leave once I have been fed.” “Stay there.” The man strode to the door of an inn and knocked with the hilt of his sword. “It’s the mayor, Cerasus. Open up.” Nash heard the sounds of several locks being unlatched before the door swung open, and the mayor entered. A short time later, he reappeared with a steaming bowl of thick soup. “Can you rise and make your way to the table?” Nash summoned all his strength and forced himself to his feet. He staggered to a table that rested outside the inn, sat, and devoured the bowl of soup. He finished and licked his lips. “Thank you,” he said. “More?” said the mayor. “Aye.” The mayor entered the inn with the empty bowl in his hand and reappeared a few moments later with the soup bowl filled. He held a small loaf of bread in his other hand. “Finish this, then leave.” He backed away from Nash.

Doitsoh consumed the bowl of soup and mopped out the bowl with the bread. He could feel strength returning to his body. “Something to drink,” he said. The mayor nodded, entered the inn, and returned with a flagon of wine. Nash downed it, then rose to his feet. The mayor stepped away from the lion-headed man. “You’ve had your food and wine. Now it is time for you to go.” “Let me sit a minute and regain my strength.” The mayor kept his sword drawn. “A minute. Then you must leave.” Nash nodded. Then he spun around, grabbed the mayor, and relieved him of his sword. “Thank you,” he snarled. “I’ll be leaving, but I need the scabbard.” He threw the mayor to the ground and began trying to remove the belt around his waist when a blow struck the back of his head. Nash ducked as more blows rained down on him. He jumped to his feet and proffered the sword in front of him. A ring of men from the town surrounded him. Each had a sword or pike in his hands. The mayor scampered backward on hands and knees. “You betrayed me!” he shouted at Nash. “You are an oath breaker.” The circle of men began to close. Nash stared at the force that opposed him. He turned slowly, just as one pike was thrust at his face. He grabbed the end of the weapon and pulled it out of the bearer’s hands. Then with a bellow, he charged that side of the circle. The men fell back. Nash pushed through them and ran screaming out of the town, back down the trail he’d taken to Atsanh. When he reached the bridge, the trumpet was sounding, and the bridge was being drawn up. There was a space a few yards wide between the end of the bridge and the trail. Nash raced up the bridge,

threw the sword and pike across the widening gap, and leapt across the chasm. He nearly fell into the river but scrambled to pull himself over the edge of the ravine and onto the trail. He got up and turned to look at the crowd on the other side of the river. He picked up the sword and raised it above his head. The pike had fallen into the water. Before the bridge could be lowered, he jogged down the trail toward the junction. He looked over his shoulder and found that the mayor and the men of the town had stopped at the bridge. What now? Clearly, Atsanh was not an option. I’ll have to travel across the Plain of Wonadsi. With no scabbard for the sword, he held it in his hand, he began his march across the plains.

Chapter 43

The keening call of a wolac awoke Tsalix from deep slumber. He slipped out of his bedroll and peered over the edge of the burned wagon. In the early morning light, he could barely make out the forms of two or three dozen of the huge sixlegged beasts moving in a line, half-mile to the east. A few had men astride them, but most were arrayed with panniers loaded with freight. “Asur, Kwercus,” he whispered. “Be still.” Asur slid out of his bedroll and crawled to Tsalix’s side. “What is it?” he said. “A supply train,” Tsalix whispered, as Kwercus appeared at his side. “And from the size of it, I’d say it will provide for an extremely large force.” “All the more evidence that Abadon is aggregating his men.” They watched until the caravan disappeared in the distance. “Tsalix, why do you think Johona hasn’t followed suit?” Kwercus sank to the ground. “He’s been warned of his brother’s plan.” Tsalix shrugged. “I know not. Perhaps when we present him with the final talisman, he’ll make known his plans.” “Then we’d best be on our way.” Kwercus set about rolling up his blanket and stowing it in his pack. “At the pace we’re making, how long do you think it will take to reach Mount Deschee?” “If we’re not interrupted, we should reach it late tomorrow.” Tsalix shouldered his pack. “We should be able to see the peak by noon. That will help us to keep from wandering.” “But we’d better keep an eye out for more wolacs,” Asur said. “Aye.” Tsalix nodded. “I think it would behoove us to move further to the west to put more distance between us and the trail those wolacs were following.”

With the recent spring rains, the Plain of Wonadsi were covered with wildflowers that had sprung from the barren earth. Some of the arroyos that crisscrossed the land had water running down them, while others were dry. As the three men moved across the land, they often had to detour around deep gorges cut by the flowing water. By noon, they still hadn’t seen the tip of Mount Deschee. Tsalix kept watch of the sun’s path to make sure they were traveling in the right direction. Ahead of them, three small trees clung to the edge of one of the defiles. “Shade,” Tsalix said. “A place we can stop for lunch.” They dropped their packs and sat in the shade of the low-growing scrub. “It feels good to get off my feet,” Asur said. Tsalix surveyed the land ahead of them. “I’ve never seen the plains so beautiful. It gives credence to the rumors of the past when it was a verdant prairie.” Asur nodded. “If there were a certain source of water, you could grow crops here. Of course, there’d be a lot of plowing necessary.” Kwercus took a bite from a loaf of bread. “I know not of these rumors. What is said of the Plain of Wonadsi. I mean, what was it like? And what happened?” Tsalix rested his elbows on his knees. “It is said that before the Obsidian Wars began, the Plain of Wonadsi was very different from what it is now. Much of it was used to raise grain and vegetables for the kingdom.” Kwercus surveyed the land. “But now it is dry and desolate. What happened?” “It is said that Abadon diverted the streams—some into the Tohkal River, some into the Swamp of Miasma.” “But why?” “I know not. It certainly has disadvantaged him as much as anyone else.” Asur said, “Perhaps he was trying to starve the people, so they’d look to him for salvation. After all, if he’s diverted the streams, he could return them to their

original channels.” “It seems he has done all he can to make the land inhospitable,” Tsalix said. “Perhaps that is to keep others from outside the kingdom from finding the land desirable.” “Who knows what his plans are,” Kwercus said. “All I know is that we have been given a charge, and we are near finishing our quest. Once we return to Hayeli and deliver the talisman to Elosha, our mission is ended.” Tsalix grabbed a branch and pulled himself to his feet. “Perhaps,” he said. “What I do know is that Mount Deschee awaits us, and it is time to go.” By the time the sun set, they had ed a dozen more campsites that had been deserted—little remained except discarded bits and pieces. Asur picked up a couple arrowheads that had been left below a burned wagon. “I wonder how many archers Abadon has trained?” he said. “Who knows,” Kwercus replied. “I wonder if he has kept them as separate squads, or whether they are mixed with the swordsmen.” “I’m more worried about the wolacs and their riders,” Asur said. “They can move so fast it’s difficult to avoid them.” Asur shuddered. “Of course, Kwercus, you were able to take one down.” “Only because I had my woodsman’s ax with me.” His hand flew to his belt. “Now, Tsalix is the only one of us who’s armed.” Tsalix rested his hand on the Sword of Sonakih. “Aye,” he replied. “At least we have that.” They stopped at the edge of an arroyo and pitched their camp for the night. Earlier in the afternoon, they had finally spotted Mount Deschee, almost directly to the south of where they marched.

“Rest well, my friends,” Tsalix said. “Tomorrow, we should reach our destination.” He snuggled into his bedroll. “I hope so.” Asur yawned. As Tsalix rolled over, the talisman dug into his side. He removed it and placed it near the top of his bed. It glowed with a faint golden light. “If we reach Teless tomorrow,” he said. “we can deliver you to Elosha the next day.” Overhead, the moon glowed.

Chapter 44

Abadon rested his elbows on the sill and stared out the window that overlooked the ten thousand steps. He drew a deep breath and shifted his gaze to the list of Elosha’s twelve appointed ones. It seemed as if the names of Tsalix Silverthorn, Asur Longtooth, and Kwercus Strongheart mocked him. He slammed his palm down on the windowsill. “Where are they?” he bellowed. “Where is Captain Doitsoh?” He spun around and returned to his throne. The courtiers in the throne room sank back against the walls, sensing that the black prince was in a foul mood. “Captain Nakais reported that Doitsoh had them isolated on Mount Litso. They had no way to escape. And yet where are they?” The vizier prostrated himself on the floor in front of Abadon. “Permission to speak,” he squeaked. “Rise, rise.” Abadon waved his hand. “What would you speak?” The old man slowly rose to his feet. “Sire, if I may say … we could send someone to check on the situation. There are enough men gathering at Mount Destiny, the Glittering Peak, that one or a few would not be missed.” “We sent Nakais before,” Abadon said. “Perhaps we could send him back.” “A wise decision, my prince.” The black prince pursed his lips “Where is Nakais now?” “I am not sure, my liege. Would you like me to find out?” “Of course,” Abadon snapped, and waved the vizier away with the back of his hand. The old man scampered from the room.

Abadon stroked his black beard while he considered what lay ahead. The room remained silent, awaiting his command. None was given, and at last, the vizier returned and flattened himself on the floor. “Up, up old man. Well?” “It appears Captain Nakais and his men are located near the base of Mount Destiny. He has—” “Send a runner. Tell him to find Doitsoh and determine what is going on. I want those three vermin brought before my throne so I can personally dispose of them,” Abadon snarled, through clenched teeth. “Aye, my prince.” The vizier got up and scurried out of the room. “Leave me!” Abadon rose to his feet. “I need some time to think.” The courtiers fled the room and closed the doors. Abadon strode across the floor, to the window. Already, a runner was descending the ten thousand steps. “Two days until he reaches Nakais. Three more for the captain to reach Mount Litso. Nay, probably four. And four more to return to Mount Jinee. A wait of at least ten or twelve days until I have word. Less than two weeks until, hopefully, I can remove any hope of my father and my brother recovering the relics.” Slowly, Abadon paced across the room. “They may have found the black talisman, although it was well-hidden on this peak. They may even have found the blue one. But there is no way they will have succeeded in finding the yellow talisman. Tsoapittse had it too well-hidden. Even I could not discover where he’d concealed it.” Abadon continued to pace. “But what if they have found it? What then?” He returned to the window, and a cruel smile crossed his lips. “Well, that is why I have moved all my troops to the Glittering Peak. There is no way they will be able to reach the Scepter of Power with my men guarding the way. If they have all three talismans, then I will have all three.” Abadon stepped down from the dais and pushed open the door to the anteroom, where he kept his collection of scrolls in their leather cases. He searched the

pigeonholes until he found the one he was seeking. After sitting at the table, he pulled the scroll from its case and unrolled it. With his finger, he traced down the words until he found the ones he was hunting. “Gish atsiniltlish.” He tried to read the ancient tongue and shook his head in frustration. He was not well-schooled in that language. He looked to see if anyone else had translated the scroll, but there was no mark indicating that to be the case. In vain, he tried to read the inscription. The only imprint on the velum was a mark that indicated it was a sacred text—the picture of a closed eye in the upper right corner of the scroll. Thwarted, he threw the document and its case against the wall. Once the manuscript touched the floor, it began to sizzle and crackle, and in a few seconds, burst into flames. Abadon drew back in terror, but in the blink of an eye, the scroll was consumed —not even ash was left behind. He sprang from his chair and reached for the leather case that had held the document, but released it with a cry of pain as it burned his fingers. A brief moment later, it also disappeared in a flash of flame. “It was protected by an evil curse,” he snarled, as he waved his blistered fingers in front of him. A bowl of perfumed water sat on a pedestal next to his throne. Abadon hurried out of the anteroom and thrust his hand into the water. As he did so, the pain decreased. But as soon as he removed his fingers from the water, it felt as if his hand was being held in a fire. With his other hand, he retrieved the mallet and rang the gong next to the throne. His vizier appeared. “My liege.” “Send for the royal physician.” Abadon kept his fingers submerged. “Aye, my prince.” The man raced out of the throne room as quickly as his spindly legs allowed. A few minutes later, a man hurried into the throne room, carrying a small bag, and threw himself on the floor.

“Stand, stand,” Abadon said. “What is wrong, my prince?” Abadon removed his hand from the perfumed bowl and held it before the physician. “I burned my fingers.” The physician bowed and then examined the black prince’s hand. “You must be in pain.” “Of course, I’m in pain. That’s why I sent for you.” The physician removed a needle from his bag and lanced each of the blisters. Then he applied a salve and bandaged the hand. “ It will take a few days to heal. I wish there were something I could do to hasten it, but there is nothing but time that will heal your wounds.” Abadon dismissed the man and stared at his bandaged hand. “This is the work of some evil magician. I will find him and have him boiled in oil.” He winced as a wave of pain traveled through his hand. The black prince sat on the throne and grimaced as he put his hand on the arm of the chair. “Patience. By the time this heals, Doitsoh should be here with the fugitives, and we’ll begin the final game.”

Chapter 45

Nash Doitsoh rolled over and sat up. He had been sleeping in the soft sand that carpeted the arroyo’s bottom. “I’ve slept in worse places.” He stretched and yawned. The sun had not yet crept over the eastern hills, and tendrils of fog glided like wraiths, across the plain. He had wrestled the whole night with what to do next. Returning to Mount Jinee without the men he sought was fruitless. Abadon did not accept failure. Nash’s life would be as fragile as the fleeting fog. It was clear the encampments on the Plain of Wonadsi had been abandoned. That meant only one thing—they were gathering for the final battle. But where was a mystery to him. If he could determine where the troops were stationed, it was possible he could slip amidst them. Although, with his lion head, he would never go unnoticed. “Captain Nakais,” he murmured. “If I can find where he has gone, I could with his forces.” Nash began creating a story in his mind that would explain where the rest of the men were. The best lies are those that weave strands of truth. His mind raced as he struggled to what Nakais knew of his situation. He was sure that no communication had been sent between Nakais and the archers he’d left behind. Dragons. There would be no mention of dragons. Nash ran his hands through his mane. His men went on ahead. I have no idea where they are—that’s what I’ll tell him. The fugitives? No sign of them after the tsunami. Probably swept out to sea. But wait. He knows nothing of the tsunami. Or does he? Certainly, fishermen who were on the Sea of Tabass would have spread the word about the tsunami. And what if Nakais has been sent to eliminate me? How will I work past that problem? Nash stood and brushed the sand from his clothing. “I will refine this story as I search for the troops.”

He climbed out of the shallow stream bed and peered across the plains before him. The sword he’d taken from the mayor of Atsanh hung in his hand. He decided to follow the channel as it wended across the plain. Nash had had nothing to eat or drink since the soup and wine he’d consumed in Atsanh, and his stomach was complaining. After following the streambed for a few miles, he heard the gurgling of water and hurried to where a small spring fed an ading watercourse. There was only a scant inch of water, but he scooped it up and satisfied his thirst. He’d put aside the pangs of hunger and satisfy them when he could. Nash scampered along as he scanned the landscape for any signs of life. His keen vision took in the carpet of flowers that covered the land. But except for an occasional lizard, he saw nothing else moving. He had traveled for over two hours, before he spotted something rising above the surface of the plain, on the other side of the arroyo. He slipped and slid down the side of the gulch, and then scrambled up the other side. Within minutes, he was at the site of the burned-out camp. He dropped to his knees and sifted the sand and ash through his fingers while he sniffed the fleeting scents. “Wolacs have been here,” he whispered, as he rose to his feet. He paced in a circle around the camp, searching for any evidence of the route the men had taken. The tireless winds had scoured the plains and left little for him to see. He widened his circle until he spotted a crushed primrose on the northeast perimeter. He dropped to his knees and plucked the blossom to inhale its perfume. His sensitive nose picked up the trace of a foreign scent, and he smiled. “They went this way.” Nash took bearing from the sun and toward where the camp had moved. Unfortunately, ancient streambeds braided across the land, some of them too deep to cross easily. He was unable to travel in a straight line, and often had to detour several miles to find a place where he could cross the arroyos. Then he’d have to travel back to pick up the trail. “If only I had my wolac. He could cross these cursed gullies.”

Thankfully, some of the streambeds held pockets of water, and he was able to satisfy his thirst, although his stomach grumbled incessantly from lack of food. The sun was an hour from its zenith when Nash spotted what appeared to be three men moving toward him. They were at least a mile away, and a breeze had come up twisting dust devils between them, making it difficult to see clearly. “If these are three of the black prince’s troops, they could be my salvation.” He rehearsed the story he had concocted and stepped toward the men. This sword is shorter and thinner than the one I usually carry. He debated whether to discard it. Nay, I can explain it some way. A single shallow ravine separated him from the three travelers. He stepped down into it, crossed the dusty streambed, and stepped out on the other side. Although nearly above them, the sun was slightly behind the three men. Nash squinted and tried to see them clearly.

Chapter 46

Tsalix placed his hand on the grip of the sword of Sonakih as he watched the lion-headed man climb out of the ravine a quarter-mile ahead of them. “It’s Captain Doitsoh,” he whispered to Kwercus and Asur. “Spread yourselves out.” Asur moved several steps to Tsalix’s left, as Kwercus moved to the right. Sunlight glinted off Nash’s sword, and Tsalix pulled his from its scabbard. It shone with a fire of its own. “What are you going to do?” Asur said, in a trembling voice. “What can we do? We cannot run away. We must stand and fight.” Nash shaded his eyes with his hand and watched as the middle figure drew his weapon. “Who are you?” he bellowed, with as much force as he could muster. Tsalix planted his feet and rested the point of the sword on the ground in front of him. “I am Tsalix Silverthorn, whom you seek.” Nash halted. “And you?” He pointed his sword to Tsalix’s right. “Kwercus Strongheart.” “Asur Longtooth.” The gods are shining on me. I will subdue them, behead them, and return to Mount Jinee a hero. Nash stepped forward while the three men he sought held their places. When he was but two yards away from Tsalix, he roared, drew back his sword and attacked. Quick as a blink, Tsalix parried Nash’s thrust with the Sword of Sonakih. Sounded like a rushing wind.

Nash spun and swung the sword in an arc. As if it had a mind of its own, Tsalix sword met Nash’s and repelled the blow. Nash took a step backward, feinted to the right, and then made a backhand slash with his blade. Tsalix swung his sword and met Nash’s, shattering his blade. Nash stared at the hilt in his hand, then threw it to the ground and lunged for Tsalix’s neck. The two men fell to the ground. Sparks flew from Nash’s eyes as he wrapped his hands around Tsalix’s throat. Asur and Kwercus were shocked frozen. Tsalix rolled out from beneath Nash’s grasp. Then the talisman began to throb within his pocket. He pulled it out, rose to his knees, and brought the stone down on Nash’s head. His golden eyes blinked once and then closed, as he fell unconscious next to Tsalix. Tsalix staggered to his feet and rubbed the sides of his neck. “Thank you, my friend,” he said to the stone, which was pulsing in his hands. Asur shook his head. “I should have helped. Are you all right?” Tsalix nodded. Kwercus bent down and picked up the Sword of Sonakih. He handed it to Tsalix. “It would seem the good captain has been delivered to us. End this now.” Tsalix held the sword in both hands, lifted it above Nash’s neck, and took a deep breath. Then he lowered the sword and replaced it in its scabbard. “I cannot do it.” “Why?” Kwercus said. “He has pursued us, and no doubt would have killed us had he been given the chance. Why not kill him while you have the advantage?” Tsalix shook his head. “On the battlefield, I defended myself. Sometimes that resulted in death. But to kill a defenseless man … that I cannot do.”

Kwercus gave a slight nod. “I see.” Asur prodded Nash with the toe of his sandal. “What do we do with him?” he said. “How hard did you hit him with the talisman?” “It seemed to have a force of its own. It nearly jumped from my hands.” “We were told it protected the owner,” Kwercus said. “You haven’t answered my question, Tsalix. How hard?” “It was a good solid thwack.” He smiled. “I think he’ll be out for a while. Let us continue on our way. With any luck, we can reach Teless tonight.” “And if he awakes and pursues us?” Kwercus said. “Then we will do what we have to do. I am armed, and he is not.” Tsalix dusted himself off, pointed toward the mountain, and began to walk. “Besides, the stone can always come to my aid.”

Chapter 47

“You seem worried, my dear.” Sambucus pushed his plate away and looked at his wife. “Tonya, they should have arrived by now.” “You were driving a wagon, and they were on foot. It might take them longer.” Sambucus shook his head. “We should have figured out some way to have traveled together.” “But you had trouble ing the guards yourself. And you had the written assurance that let you through. How could you have brought three more with you?” She massaged his shoulders. “Have faith. I think they are resourceful young men.” “Aye, they are that. It’s just that I feel responsible for them.” Tonya removed the dishes from the dinner table and took them to the sink to wash them. “If they have been captured,” she said, “what is your next move?” “Perhaps that is what bothers me the most. There was no other plan. Everything hinges on the success of their mission.” He pushed his chair back, stood and paced across the room. Tonya finished the dishes and stacked them on the shelves at the side of the sink, then watched her husband for a moment. “The cows need milking,” she said. “Aye. At least that will keep me occupied.” He stopped in the doorway. “I’ll be back, soon.” Sambucus plodded across the yard, toward the barn. The moon had barely cleared the hills to the east, and long shadows stretched across the path to the barn. He could hear the sounds of the cows milling around, awaiting his visit.

Sambucus took a deep breath and paused to gaze across the fields toward the Plain of Wonadsi. He shook his head before continuing on to the barn. He forked hay into the mangers and began milking. The warmth of the cows soothed him as the milk squirted into the bucket. Before long, he had fallen into the gentle rhythm he knew so well. He finished with the last cow, led her to her stall, and poured the milk into one of the jugs that lined the wall. He pinched the wick of the lamp, plunging the barn into moonlit shadows. It took a minute for his eyes to adjust to the darkness before he left the barn and closed the door behind him. When he turned around, he caught a flicker of motion on the edge of Wonadsi. He blinked and searched again until he was sure he could see someone approaching the edge of the pasture. He sank back into the shadows and waited. The longer he waited the clearer his vision became, until he was certain he saw three men crossing the field. The moon reflected from the sword one of them carried. It must be them! He called out, “Who goes there?” The three men stopped and turned toward the sound of his voice. “Sambucus, is that you?” “Aye!” he replied to Tsalix’s voice. “I’ve been waiting for you.” The three men broke into a trot and met Sambucus on the path between the barn and house. “Sambucus, it is so good to see you,” Asur said. “Aye. It is good to see you as well.” He hugged each of the men. “I was getting worried. Thought you’d have arrived before now.” “The spring rains have filled some of the gullies and made it slow travel,” Tsalix said. “And we had a brief encounter that slowed us up for a while.” “Aye? What? Who?” Kwercus said, “We met Captain Nash Doitsoh.”

Sambucus’s eyes flew open. “And what happened?” Asur said, “He attacked Tsalix with his sword, but Tsalix shattered his blade with the Sword of Sonakih.” Tsalix raised his hand to stop Asur from speaking further. “But I’d still have been beaten if I hadn’t had the talisman. It knocked the captain senseless.” Sambucus smiled in the moonlight. “I will have to hear this whole story. But come. My wife will be happy to feed you.” “If it is no trouble,” Tsalix said. “Nay. And there is room for you to sleep. Tomorrow will come soon enough, and you can carry the final talisman to the king.” Sambucus led them into the house. “Tonya, they are here.” It took little time until the table had been set and food provided. The three of them scarfed their food down. “This is the first real meal we’ve had since we left the Swamp of Miasma,” Kwercus said. “You are a fine cook.” Tonya blushed. “Now, the whole story,” Sambucus said. “Tell me about your encounter with Captain Doitsoh.” When they finished recounting the tale, Sambucus sat in his rocking chair with a pensive expression. “You let him live,” he said to Tsalix. “Aye. I could not kill an unarmed man.” “Even though he had tried to kill you moments before?” Tsalix rested his hand on the Sword of Sonakih.

“Was I wrong, Sambucus?” Their host shook his head. “Nay. It was the honorable thing to do.” “I hear doubt in your voice.” “It is only that I do not think he will stop hunting you. And had he been successful, the talisman would have not reached the king.” Sambucus ran his hands through his hair. “He is a ruthless man with nothing but greed and ambition running through his veins. What you did was right. But if the tables had been turned, I do not think honor would have stopped him from killing you. And if you meet again, he will not think of your action as honorable. He will see it as weakness.” “Well, then let’s hope we do not meet again.” Tsalix stifled a yawn. “You are weary. You have traveled far today. Sleep, for tomorrow you have a long climb to Hayeli.” “Aye,” Tsalix said. “At last, we have done all we were asked to do. The journey is over.” “Perhaps,” Sambucus said. “Perhaps.”

Chapter 48

Nash awoke with a splitting headache. He tried to stand, but his head was swimming, and he could not keep his balance. Infuriated, he sat on the ground and gnashed his teeth. “I had them in my hands, and again they escape,” he snarled. Gingerly, he moved his throbbing head. The remains of his stolen sword lay in pieces around him. “If I had had my own sword and tsenil, the results would have been much different.” He screamed a curse. The sun was setting behind the western hills before he was finally able to stand without falling. The dizziness came and went. “Where did they go?” He bent over and examined the ground. “They’ve gone on toward Teless.” His mind flew back to a time when he had brought his forces to Teless’s sister city of Chushka, and had lost all of his men. Nash touched the bicep that had been struck by an arrow, and his stomach grumbled. “Elosha’s followers are such weaklings. They let me live at Chushka, and now they let me live again.” He began moving across the plain toward Teless. “I’ll catch them again, and this time I’ll be prepared.” Darkness descended. The moon had not yet risen, and the only light came from the myriad of stars that pierced the velvet dome of the sky. Nash trekked onward until he reached a shallow defile with trickling water. He knelt and satisfied his thirst. When he tried to stand, the world swirled around him, and he dropped back to his knees. He ran his hand over the back of his head, and through his mane felt a lump the size of a goose egg. He clenched his teeth in pain. When at last he could stand, he marched onward toward Teless. “Where did they come from?” he said, as he made his slow progress. “Where

have they been?” In his mind, he formed a map of the kingdom. Teless at the base of Mount Deschee was near the center of the kingdom. And to the north, the direction from which they’d come, lay Mount Jinee, the home of Prince Abadon. A chill ran through his body. “More evidence that the black prince has colluded to have me killed.” He thought back to the encounter he’d had with the three men, and another shock struck him. “He had the Sword of Sonakih!” The realization was so strong it stopped him in his tracks. “But it was supposed to have been destroyed at the Battle of Tihileitsoh.” Nash spat on the ground. “Another lie.” He growled and shook his fist at the moon. “No wonder he was able to defeat me. Spells and charms were cast upon the sword as it was forged by Bihkehe, Elosha’s master smith.” He took a few more steps. “Abadon must have given it to Silverthorn to ensure I could not win.” Again, he shook his fist at the moon. Nash took a few more steps before he came to a halt. “Am I playing into his hands?” He rubbed the bump on his head again. “Is this what he expects me to do? He knows how determined I am to bring these three to justice.” He turned around slowly and looked back across the Plain of Wonadsi. “Of course! He expects me to pursue them to Teless, where the people of the town will protect them. And I walk unarmed into their midst!” He roared again. “How did he find out my plan? I told no one of my scheme. Somehow the black prince has ferreted out the truth, that once he wins the final battle, he will be mine. And once he’s disposed of, I’ll rule in his stead.” For a fleeting moment, his mind flew back to Saond, where his father ruled, and how his attempts to kill his father and brother had been thwarted. “I’ll rule this kingdom and Saond. Even though Abadon has figured out my plan, I can still win. What I must do now is be more ingenious than he.” Nash sank to the ground and pondered his situation. “If I continue on to Teless, I may be

killed. If I return to Mount Jinee without my prey, the same may be my lot.” He rubbed his hands together, and a thought entered his mind. “But if he thinks I died in the tsunami, I can work in the shadows.” He chuckled. “The only ones who know I’m alive are the three fugitives. I must go into hiding until the Obsidian Wars come to their conclusion. Then I can make my move.” He forced himself to his feet. “But where can I hide?” He ran his hands through his mane. “I am easily recognized.” He stood immobile. “Either I return to the yellow mountain—no one lives there now since they were all killed by the tsunami—or I must move outside the kingdom.” A breeze began to blow from the east. “It is an omen. The yellow mountain—Litso.” He altered his course and began to retrace his steps toward Mount Litso. “There is food there, and plenty of water. Certainly it will not be too hard to build some sort of shelter where I can wait until the war is over.” With a smile, he ignored the pangs of hunger and jogged across the moonwashed landscape. By the time the sun rose behind him, Nash had reached the path that led to the Bay of Nihlini. Furtively, he looked around to make sure no one else was there. A few sails were visible on the Sea of Tabass, but there were no other signs that anyone was near. Weak from hunger, he slipped into a small glade and rested. “Tonight, I’ll travel the rest of the way to Mount Litso.” He spotted a berry-covered bush and scarfed down the berries. A few moments later, he fell asleep in the shadowy clearing. Hours later, he was awakened by the sound of voices. Carefully, he rolled to the edge of the glade and peered out through the branches of a shrub. Three fishermen were filling their waterskins. I could overpower them. Nash shook his head. If I do that, word may return to Abadon. He watched in silence until they returned to their boat and sailed away. His nap had refreshed him, and he decided to travel on. After the boat had sailed far enough away that he could no longer recognize the men, he returned to the trail and continued on toward Mount Litso. He finished the journey by moonlight and

looked for the pile of rocks that held the hidden door. The landscape had changed significantly since the tsunami had scoured the land, and it took him a long time to find what he sought. He pried open the door and descended into the tunnel that led to the island. When he arrived at the giant’s storeroom, he was in pitch blackness. The only light came from a few stars visible through the open hatch. He felt around for a few minutes until he found a torch, flint, and steel. After several attempts, he was able to light the torch. Although seawater had flooded the larder, he discovered some of the food still edible. He ate his fill before he tried to find a way to climb out of the cellar. The stairs had been built for Tsoapittse’s feet, and each tread was more than six feet above the last. Nash just shook his head. And then, overwhelmed by fatigue, he curled up on a discarded quilt and fell asleep.

Chapter 49

Velvet let herself into the dragon’s lair and was greeted by hisses from several of them. She checked to make sure the water troughs were full, and that each of the dragons had sufficient food. Shilloh crossed the floor and lifted her head. “Mother says we should fly toward the Glittering Peak,” she said. “Why?” The dragon shook her head. “There is great power in knowledge.” “I agree. But why Mount Destiny?” “There are many of the black prince’s men gathering there. It would be good to know how many, and how they are arrayed.” Velvet rubbed the spot between Shilloh’s wings that brought great pleasure to the dragon. “Perhaps you are right, she replied. Although, what we would do with that information escapes me.” “Mother will find a way to get it to the right people.” “Let me talk with Lance and Cha. I think it would be wise for all three of us to go together.” “If you must. But it will be easier to hide one dragon than three, don’t you think?” Neol, Lance’s steed, came to Shilloh’s side. “You are right, my sister.” She lifted her head and flicked her tongue toward the ceiling. “One dragon flying high will barely be noticed. Three would increase the chance of being seen.” She headed back to her enclosure. “Still, I need to talk with Lance and Cha before we decide.”

“As you wish, Velvet.” Shilloh scurried to where the three smallest dragons were sleeping. “I’ll await your decision.” Velvet left the dragon’s lair and returned to the atrium, where Lance and Cha were finishing breakfast. She sat next to Cha. “Shilloh told me that Nashoi thinks it would be wise to check out what is happening at Mount Destiny.” She placed her hand on top of Cha’s. Lance shrugged. “It could do no harm, I suppose. But what then? We have no way of getting a message to Johona.” “Shilloh says her mother can take care of that. How? I know not.” Lance picked up his empty plate and moved toward the kitchen. “I have no idea how she’d do that,” he said. “But the information might be valuable. Why don’t we finish our chores and then leave this afternoon?” Velvet squeezed Cha’s hand. “Shilloh suggests it would be better for just one of us to go. That way, we’d escape detection more easily.” Cha said, “There may be wisdom in that. I’ll go.” “I think Shilloh is the one Nashoi has chosen. I’ll go.” Lance spun around. “I don’t think that’s wise. Father would never forgive me if I let something happen to you.” “You don’t think I’m as capable of riding a dragon as you?” “It’s not that. It’s just—” “It’s just that I’m a girl. Is that it?” “No … no. Well, yes.” “Well, get over it. I’m flying with Shilloh.” Red colored her cheeks. Lance shook his head. “I don’t suppose there’s anything I can say to persuade you to let Cha or me go?”

Velvet took a bite of her breakfast. “Lance, there is no danger. We’re going to fly high enough so we won’t be recognized. And we won’t be gone long. When we return, I’ll report what I’ve seen, and we’ll figure out a way to get the information to Johona.” Cha cleared his throat. “When will your father return with supplies?” “Not for another three weeks,” Velvet said. “That won’t work. In three weeks, all the troops may have moved. We’ll have to figure a way to get your report to Johona quickly.” Velvet stood. “You two work on that while Shilloh and I are gone.” She cleaned her plate and marched down the hallway to her room. A few minutes later, she reappeared, wearing her dragon-riding leather outfit. “We’ll be back in a few hours.” Before her brother could respond, she knocked on the door and entered the dragon’s enclosure. Cha followed her. When the door closed, Shilloh flexed her back. “Climb on, Velvet.” “Be safe,” Cha said, by her side. Velvet leaned down and kissed him. “We will.” She winked. The tambour door slid open, and the dragon and her rider leapt into the air. Shilloh flew in an ever-increasing spiral, until they were high enough that Velvet could see the entire island of Keyah beneath them. The dragon climbed even higher, until she pivoted on her wing and began racing toward Mount Destiny. An hour or more ed before the first encampments of Abadon’s men were seen. Do you see them, Velvet?

Aye. Slow down, Shilloh. They flew in huge circles around the peak far below. Look, the dragon think-spoke. There are no men gathered on the back of the glittering mountain. All are assembled on the western flank. They circled again. There are some on the north side, I think, the dragon think-spoke. Aye, and some on the south. But none on the east. How odd. Shilloh clamped her shield on Velvet’s legs. We’re going home. The dragon wheeled around toward the north, and with vigorous flaps of her leathery wings, sped them back to Keyah. Now what do we do with what we’ve learned? Mother will know. The dragon glided toward the enclosure, and the door opened to it them. Cha and Lance were waiting. “What did you discover?” Lance said, as they sat in the atrium. “Men are camped from north to south on the front of Mount Destiny,” Velvet said. “None of them are on the back. The closer you get to the peak, the greater the concentration of troops.” “How far into the Plain of Wonadsi are they camped?” Lance said. “Just far enough to control the road that Father takes.” Lance turned to Cha. “With your experience, what are they doing?” “Massing for a battle. Abadon has always believed that the more men you put into the fray, the greater your chance of success. If one is killed, another takes

his place.” Lance chewed on his lower lip. “Cha, how would you defeat them?” “It is a fool’s battle to go up against Abadon’s forces. With Johona’s volunteer army, he has fewer than half as many men as Abadon. There is no way he can win.” “Then we must warn him,” Velvet said. “Let’s hope Nashoi has a way to do it.”

Chapter 50

Tsoapittse raised himself to his knees. He had lain prostrate before Shidah, the king of the giants. “What would you have me do?” he asked. “Return to the yellow mountain and rebuild your home.” Tsoapittse shuddered. “The memories are too raw.” “They will fade as you heal.” Shidah extended his wand and touched Tsoapittse on the shoulder. “I will send Hatahli with you to be your new wife.” Tsoapittse shook his head. “It is too soon, my king.” Tears streamed down his cheeks. “Do not ask this of me.” Shidah shook his head. “Do as I say, my son. The clouds of war are rising, and the yellow mountain must be protected.” He lifted himself from his throne, descended the steps to where Tsoapittse knelt, and placed his hand on the top of the giant’s head. “What is done is done.” He felt Tsoapittse’s body shuddering beneath his hand. “It is more than I can bear. My wife has been gone but a few days; my sons swept out to sea with her. How can you ask me to take another and return to the place where my heart was broken?” Shidah took a deep breath and raised Tsoapittse to his feet. “My son, I would not ask this of you if it were not critical. Return and take Hatahli with you. You, and you alone, understand the peculiarities of Mount Litso. It may be you are not required to be there very long. I sense that Abadon is preparing for the final battle. And once it ends, you may return home.” Tsoapittse raised his head and looked into the king’s eyes. “If I must, I must.” Shidah smiled. “Thank you, Tsoapittse. I knew I could count on you, just as the black prince has counted on us.” He clapped the giant on his shoulder again. “Now, go. Rest. Tonight, we will have a feast before you leave. There, I will

have Hatahli introduced to you.” Tsoapittse nodded. “I know her already. She played with my younger sister before Coapiccan and I left for Mount Litso.” “Ah, my son … but in those decades she has grown up. I think you will be pleased.” Shidah returned to his throne as Tsoapittse started to leave the throne room. “Oh, and I will perform the marriage at the end of the feast.” Tsoapittse shook his head as he wandered into the hallway of the castle. He navigated the labyrinth of ages until he arrived at his room. He had never doubted or disobeyed an order from Shidah before, but this was almost too much to bear. He and Coapiccan had built their home on the island, side by side. She had born him three sons, and together they’d raised them to young manhood. How could he possibly turn his back on her memory? Nay, it was worse than that. It was a betrayal of their shared love. All the way back to his homeland, he had hoped for solace. Now the king was turning his life upside down. Tsoapittse lay on the bed and stared at the ceiling. He flexed his wounded shoulder and found it nearly restored to full strength. For hours, he wrestled with the command of his king. He ed Hatahli as one of his sister’s many friends—the little girl who asked too many questions. How in the world could he do this? He was still struggling, when he heard the clock strike seven—dinner time. He struggled to his feet and ran his fingers through his hair, trying to make it somewhat presentable. The clock awakened a memory. How in the world did those three little men discover the talisman hidden in the clock? It had been there for eons, and no one else had any idea. Even Coapiccan and the children had been unaware. His mind forgot the clock and leapt to the image of his wife. Tears streamed down his cheeks as he wandered down the hallway, toward the great hall. Bright light flooded through the doorway as he approached. A roaring fire was burning, and hundreds of candles illuminated the tables that filled the room. Shidah and his wife sat at the head table, while seated at the rest of the tables were the noblemen and women of the kingdom. The king saw him enter the room and beckoned to him to sit on his right hand. Almost blinded by the light,

Tsoapittse drifted to the king. “Sit, my son. We were waiting for your arrival to begin the feast.” Shidah clapped, and servants entered the room and began placing mountains of food before the waiting guests. “While we are waiting, may I introduce you to your new bride.” Hatahli was seated on the other side of the queen. She looked straight ahead, over the guests. Tsoapittse leaned forward and looked at her. She had grown up and was no longer the chubby child he ed from before. “You are pleased?” the king said. Tsoapittse tried to smile. “She is lovely, sire.” “But your memories of Coapiccan are still too fresh?” “Aye.” The king mused for a moment. “When you left before, I was angry with you. You had chosen to disobey me, and I felt you and your wife were running away. But things change. Perhaps we can reach a compromise. It would be unseemly for the two of you to go without a chaperone unless you are married.” Tsoapittse nodded. “May I suggest we go through with the marriage so you can take Hatahli with you to the island. But when the battles are over, if you so wish, I will dissolve the marriage without prejudice, and you can go your separate ways. Would that suffice?” “My king, you know I will follow any command you give. This is breaking my heart, but I will do what you want me to do.” Tsoapittse leaned forward further and looked at the woman who was to be his wife. “Have you explained all of this to Hatahli?” “In a sense. I will have the queen explain it while we eat.” Shidah turned to his wife and whispered in her ear.

She turned to him with a bemused smile, before turning to the girl on her left and engaging her in quiet conversation. Hatahli then leaned forward and looked at Tsoapittse while she shook her head and thrust her jaw forward. The servants placed steaming plates of food in front of all four of them. “Eat,” the king said. “We’ll hammer out the details later.”

Chapter 51

Asur blinked as he awoke. The bed was soft and warm, and it was all he could do to swing his feet over the edge and rise to his feet. Kwercus was snoring softly, and Asur tried not to wake him as he moved across the room. Tsalix’s bed was empty. Asur pulled the door open and descended the steps to the kitchen, where heavenly smells greeted him. “Sleep well?” Sambucus said, as Asur stopped in the doorway. “Aye. Too well.” He stretched. Tsalix was already seated at the table. “We’d better wake Kwercus up and start our climb up the mountain,” he said. “I’ll get him.” Asur climbed the stairs and roused his friend. A few moments later, they were all seated around table, eating the biscuits and sausage gravy that Sonya had prepared for them. Sambucus examined the three young men. “I have a request,” he said. “Anything,” Asur replied. “Tell the king of Abadon’s plans.” “We intended to,” said Tsalix. “It is critical that he prepare for war. I have sent word before, but nothing seems to be happening.” Tsalix nodded. “We’ll do all we can to explain the situation.” He wiped his chin with a napkin. “Now, I think we need to be on our way.” He turned to Tonya. “You have been most kind, and I know not how to repay you.” “Nothing is needed.” She smiled. “Peace go with you.”

The three of them shouldered their packs as they walked out the door of the farmhouse. Sambucus followed them a few steps up the road. “One more thing,” he said. “Tell Johona the dragons are ready.” Kwercus nodded. “Aye. And thank you for your friendship.” With a salute, the three young men started their climb up Mount Deschee. For two hours, they trekked and met no one else on the journey. Then, as they rounded a corner, they discovered two children walking down the mountain trail. Tsalix motioned to his friends, and they moved to the side of the trail to let the youths . The boy stopped in front of Tsalix. “You have a long climb ahead of you.” “We know.” Tsalix smiled. “You must have started early to be this far down the mountain.” The girl giggled. “No, silly. We spent the night with our grandfather.” Kwercus knitted his brow. “And where does your grandfather live?” The boy shook his head. “We’re not supposed to say.” He glowered at his sister, tugged her hand and ran down the trail. “I know not of anyone living on the side of the mountain,” Asur said. “Where would he stay?” said Kwercus. “Well, let’s keep an eye out for any place he could be living.” Tsalix sought shade, and finally rested in a cleft in the red stone walls. “At this rate,” Kwercus said, “we’ll be in Hayeli while the sun is still shining. Let’s be off.” He grabbed his pack and went to throw it to his shoulders, but a strap got caught on a finger of rock. As he tugged on it, he heard a grating sound as part of the mountainside pivoted, revealing a shallow cavern. Inside, an old, bearded man sat on a stool while he ate his meal from the top of a rough-hewn table. He

blinked at the brightness. “Who are you?” The man shaded his eyes with his hand. Kwercus stepped through the portal, into the cave. “I am Kwercus Strongheart.” He extended his hands, palms up. “Why are you here?” “We are on our way to Hayeli, to see the king.” Tsalix ed his friend. “We saw your two grandchildren on the path below.” “And they told you where I lived?” The old man rose to his feet and brushed a few crumbs from the apron around his waist. “Nay,” Tsalix replied. “They refused to say anything other than they had spent the night with their grandfather.” “Then how did you know where to find my home?” “An accident.” Kwercus pointed to where the strap of his pack was wound around the rock. The old man gazed at Kwercus’s pack. “Well, be on your way then.” He backed up a few steps and sat back down on the stool. “If I may be so bold,” Tsalix said. “Who are you, and why do you live here?” “I am an old man who is but one of many guarding the way to Hayeli.” “There are more of you?” Kwercus said. The old man’s gaze flitted from one side of the cave to the other. “I have said too much,” he grumbled. Tsalix noticed there were fissures in the rock that allowed muted sunlight to illuminate the cave. His eyes had grown accustomed to the dimness, and he could see there were at least two more rooms cut back into the rock. The foot of

a bed was visible in one of them. “We’ll leave you then.” Kwercus backed out of the room. As soon as he and Tsalix were clear of the slab of rock that acted as a door, it swung shut. “It would take sharp eyes to know it was there,” Asur said. “I wonder how many more are hidden along the trail.” They continued their climb, and with the sun beginning to sink in the west, they crested the hill and began their journey across the top of the mountain. The neatly laid out streets of the city greeted them. It was still light enough to read the inscription on the white wrought iron arch that spanned the central street— Welcome to Hayeli. “Welcome, indeed.” Tsalix released a contented sigh, and felt the talisman vibrating in his pocket. “It will be good to deliver the final talisman and be released from our odyssey. Although, with our town burned, what do we have to return to?” “Aye,” said Kwercus. Tsalix moved forward in silence. “Something is bothering you, my friend,” Kwercus said. “I was thinking of our families in the dungeons on Mount Jinee. Even if we are free from further obligation, they are still imprisoned.” “But we were promised that when we finished our quest,” Asur said, “all would be well. You bear the last talisman. What else can be asked of us?” A trumpet sounded from the parapet of the castle, and the gates glided open. Princess Angelica stood waiting for them. “My brave warriors.” She smiled as her gaze fell upon the talisman in Asur’s hands. “You return triumphant.” She stepped forward and greeted each of them with a kiss. “Father will be so pleased.”

The three of them dropped to one knee and bowed before the princess. “Please follow me.” She led them into the castle. King Elosha and Queen Nadlee were seated on their thrones as Angelica brought the three men into the throne room. “They have succeeded, Father, as you knew they would.” She crossed the room and took her place on her throne. “Tsalix, Asur, and Kwercus, welcome back to Hayeli,” the king whispered, seeming frailer than when they’d last seen him. “You have the final talisman?” Tsalix stepped forward with the golden stone in his outstretched hands. “Aye, Your Majesty.” With trembling fingers, Elosha grasped the talisman, rose to his feet with a grunt, and stepped behind the throne to place the glowing stone on a pedestal next to the other two glowing talismans. The king returned to his throne and seated himself gingerly. “Well-done,” he said. “It has been our pleasure to serve,” Tsalix replied. The king turned to his wife. “Has a feast been prepared?” “Yes, my dear. Once we had word they were approaching, all preparations began.” “Then let us retire to the banquet hall. I’m sure our young warriors must be hungry.” The king was helped to his feet by his daughter, and slowly led the procession out of the throne room. Behind them, the stones quivered and gleamed on their pedestals. One by one, they turned until the word TSALIX glowed.

Chapter 52

Nash Doitsoh studied the steps that seemed to go upward forever. The tree hatch that closed the opening to the larder was lying on its side, and diffused sunlight illuminated the cellar. He counted the steps—thirty in all. Climbing them seemed an insurmountable feat. Nash wandered around the room, searching for anything that would help, and his gaze fell upon the crates that were stacked against what was left of the grandfather clock. He climbed onto the bottom one and shoved the top one to the ground. It landed with a resounding crash. Nash slid down from his perch and went to work dismantling the crate. It was well-made, and it took a considerable amount of time for him to separate the top from the rest of the box. The piece he’d removed was about fifteen-feet long and six-feet wide, made from staves of wood nailed together and held in place by a foot-wide frame of rough-hewn lumber. It weighed nearly as much as he did. Nash shoved the crate top to the bottom step and struggled until it fell against the tread forming a ramp. He scampered up the ramp and tried to pull the up, but it was too heavy, and after several tries, he slid back down it to the floor. “I don’t need the whole thing,” he growled. “One side of the frame would do.” He scoured the cellar for a lever that would help him pry the frame from the . He found nothing and was about to try to figure another way of escape, when he spied the clock’s minute hand resting on top of the crate next to the clock. He retrieved it and began prying one of the twelve-foot planks from the lid. The nails had been driven through the frame, then through the slats that made up the box, and the tips bent over. It took all of Nash’s strength to finally separate the frame from the first board that made up the lid. Two nails, bent like witches’ fingers, stuck through the board. He plopped down on the floor from exhaustion. “This will take all day,” he muttered. “Yet what do I have to do, other than fashion a way to escape.” He grasped the minute hand and went to work on the second board. It took a half-hour before he’d managed to pry it free. By nighttime, he’d managed to complete half his task.

Nash fed himself and then fell into a troubled slumber. When the morning came, he resumed his task, and before nightfall, had managed to free one twelve-foot plank that was a foot wide and a half-foot thick. He dragged it across the floor and leaned it against the bottom step. The nails stuck out, but Nash used them as ladder rungs to climb to the first step. He pulled the board up behind him and rested it against the next step. Twenty minutes later, and exhausted, he stepped out of the cellar and into fresh air. It was a cloudy day, and the rain was drizzling. Nash lifted his face and let the droplets splatter against it. He then moved across the yellow sands, to the remains of Tsoapittse’s home. Even less remained than when he’d left the island. He looked into the pit. “Where are they?” Nash wandered through what had been the orchard. The winds that swept down the peaks had uncovered some of the branches, but most of them were still buried under eight to ten feet of sand. The barn had survived better than the house, but still it was leaning to one side. He crawled on is belly, through a window opening, until he could see the bloated bodies of two cows partially buried in muck. The odor made him retch. He backed out of the barn and spent the next several hours surveying his surroundings. The rain continued to fall, and he was chilled to the bone. Although he hated the thoughts of climbing back down into the cellar, there seemed to be no other alternative. He returned to the opening and began his slow descent. “I’ve got to come up with a better way to navigate the stairs.” After reaching the bottom of the staircase, he opened a sealed package of food and satisfied his hunger. “I need to organize what’s left.” He surveyed the cellar. “Tomorrow, I’ll separate what can be salvaged from the rest. And I’ll figure out some better way to get in and out of this room.” The light was fading as he made a bed for himself in an empty crate. He climbed in and tried to fall asleep, but his mind kept trying to figure out what Abadon’s next move toward him might be. Phantom memories battled in his brain until he

finally fell into a troubled slumber.

Chapter 53

King Elosha led the procession into the banquet hall. He took his place at the head table and invited the others to be seated. Tsalix, Asur, and Kwercus were seated on one side of the king, while Queen Nadlee, Princess Angelica, and Prince Johona were seated on the other. The hall was filled with the noblemen and women of the city. Once they were seated, the king clapped, and a multitude of servants began placing food upon the tables. “Eat well, my sons.” An hour later, when the last course had been consumed, the king turned to Tsalix. “Are you ready to complete your journey?” Tsalix shook his head. “I thought we were through, my liege. All three talismans have been found and brought to you. What else would you have us do?” A wan smile creased Elosha’s face. “Perhaps the most difficult of all your tasks. You must take the three stones to Mount Destiny, the Glittering Peak, and restore them to the Scepter of Power.” Tsalix blinked. “You would have us do that, Sire?” He felt Asur and Kwercus leaning forward to focus on the king. “I … we thought that was something Johona would do.” The king reached out a frail hand and patted Tsalix on the shoulder. “Nay, my sons. It is the last thing I would ask of you. Johona has other things he must do.” He smiled. “Will you accept the task?” Tsalix inhaled deeply and sighed. “Of course, Your Majesty. Whatever you command, we will do.” “I knew I could count on you.” He turned to his queen. “How soon do they need to leave?”

Queen Nadlee pursed her lips. “Let them rest a week or so. Then prepare them for their final task.” The king nodded. “Before you leave, Tsalix Silverthorn, it would be well if you understood your lineage.” “Sire, I know I was born to the Silverthorn clan, and for the Sweetwater clan. But I know nothing beyond that.” The king smiled. “Aye, there is more you need to know.” He nodded. “But you are weary, and so am I. There is time ahead to forage into the past.” Again, he patted Tsalix on the shoulder, and then struggled to his feet. The congregation rose with their king. With a gentle wave, he dismissed them as he leaned on his wife’s arm and shuffled out of the throne room. Tsalix, Asur, and Kwercus remained standing until the king was gone from the banquet hall. Tsalix took another deep breath. “I thought we were done, brothers.” “Aye,” Kwercus said. “But it appears we have at least one more leg of our journey to complete. Let us hope it is not as difficult as the first three.” Asur watched as the rest of the assembly filtered out of the room. “I fear it will be more difficult,” he said. “All of Abadon’s men have gathered at the Glittering Peak for the final battle. We will have to through them to reach the mountain.” Tsalix shook his head. “Surely, Elosha must know this. There have been so many who have alerted him to Abadon’s plans.” Asur scrunched his forehead. “He seems so frail. I wonder if his mind is going, too? Perhaps he has heard yet does not fully comprehend.” “If he doesn’t, surely Johona does,” said Kwercus. “Regardless, we must follow the king’s command.” The room had emptied, and only the three young men remained. They were

about to leave for their apartments when Princess Angelica stepped back into the banquet hall. “Tsalix,” she said. “A word, please.” While Asur and Kwercus excused themselves and left the room, Tsalix moved to Angelica’s side. “Yes, Princess.” “Please call me Angelica.” She took his hand. “The three of you have accomplished what no one else has ever believed could be done.” Tsalix blushed. “We have been blessed to complete our task.” “Blessed and resourceful.” She led him to a chair and bade him be seated, then sat opposite him. “Sambucus has sent us word of my brother Abadon’s armies. You need to know that we are aware of this.” “They are massed around Mount Destiny,” Tsalix said. “Sambucus’s daughter, Velvet, has observed the troops being summoned to the Glittering Peak…” He wasn’t sure he should reveal the existence of the dragons. Angelica smiled. “We have been told of Velvet’s flight over the peak.” “You know of the dragons?” he blurted. Angelica nodded. “There is very little happening in this kingdom that my father does not know about. It was he that saved Nashoi and took her to the island.” “Of course.” Tsalix nodded. “I should have known that.” Angelica gazed into Tsalix’s eyes. “There will be troubles ahead that you will need to use all of your wits to overcome.” She reached into her bodice and removed an amulet. “You carried my purse to Mount Tsood. Kwercus carried the thong and key to Mount Litso. Will you please take this, Tsalix, and keep it close to your heart?” He took the small round token from her hand. It was made of gold, with an ivory inlay that was inscribed with an A.

“Of course, Angelica. She took his hands in hers. “There may be a way to avoid my brother’s armies. For some reason, he has not protected the eastern flank.” “I know not what lies to the east of Mount Destiny.” “The Kingdom of Nilchi holds title to the land, but it has never been settled. No one lives there.” “Why?” Angelica shrugged. “I know not. Perhaps because they have had no need of the land. They are a small kingdom.” Tsalix realized she was still holding his hands, and a blush traveled up his neck. “But if Abadon is guarding the rest of the mountain,” he said, “how would we get past his men?” “There may be a way. But I may have said too much. I will let my father tell you of his plan.” She leaned forward and kissed him on the cheek. “You must be weary. Goodnight.” She rose to her feet. “Angelica, if I may be so bold … why me?” She pursed her. “Tsalix, you have a soft heart, even if you are a warrior. And Kwercus is a rough woodsman. And Asur is Asur. I find it easier to talk to you than to your companions.” “They are good men,” he said. “There is no question about that. But for whatever reason, I feel closer to you.” With a smile, she turned and left the room. Tsalix looked after her, and then examined the token she had left. The letter A shone. With a light heart, he ambled to his room. Asur saw him , and called out, “Where have you been, Tsalix?”

Tsalix turned and entered Asur’s apartment. “Speaking with the princess.” He reached into his pocket and retrieved the amulet. “She wants me to carry this.” He handed it to Asur. His friend looked at the token by the light of the moon streaming through the window. “And you will do it, won’t you?” “Goodnight.” Tsalix nodded, then stepped down the hall to his room and prepared for bed. The moon shone on the ivory face of the amulet and illuminated the engraved T. He tucked it under his pillow.

Chapter 54

Nash awoke to the sound of something coming through the tunnel. He wiped the sleep from his eyes and looked around for something he could use as a weapon. The clock hand was nearby, and he grabbed it with both hands. Sleep had matted his mane, so he shook it and prepared to meet the intruder. The sun had not yet risen, and in the dim light that crept into the chamber like fireflies in the mist, Nash tried to make out the opening to the tunnel behind the shelves that remained open. He thought he could make out the sound of heavy footsteps, and he prepared to pounce on the intruder. “It is not much further,” the voice boomed out of the tunnel. Tsoapittse. I thought he was dead. Nash threw down the clock hand and looked for a place to hide. He darted to an open crate, scaled its side, and crouched down inside. He peered through the slats and watched in horror as two gigantic forms emerged. “This way.” Tsoapittse crossed the cellar, to the stairway. He almost stepped on the plank full of nails but stopped in time and threw it out of the way before climbing the stairs. The woman followed behind him. Each of them had a substantial pack slung over their shoulders. When they reached the top of the stairway, Nash climbed out of the crate and stared at the two giants. It took but a moment for him to decide he would have to scramble back through the tunnel before he was discovered. Nash unrolled the blanket on which he’d slept and began piling food on it. When he finished, he rolled the blanket up and fashioned a rude pack. He was just slinging it on his shoulders when a shadow blotted out the light. He swung around in time to see Tsoapittse descending the stairs. With nowhere to hide, Nash raced across the floor, toward the opening of the tunnel. He had almost reached it when the shelves that guarded it were slammed shut. “What are you doing here?” Tsoapittse growled. “We showed you the way to freedom before the wave washed over us.” Nash swallowed. “I … my men were swept away. I alone survived.”

The giant reached down to pick Nash up, and placed him in the palm of his hand. “And you chose to stay here?” Nash began to sweat as Tsoapittse stared at him. He searched in vain for a reasonable answer. Sometimes a good offense is better than defense. “I felt someone had to guard the island,” he blustered. Tsoapittse tilted his head back and laughed. “So you, unarmed, felt you could guard Mount Litso? Hardly!” He crossed the room and climbed the stairs. When they emerged into the dawn, a giant woman was sitting on a boulder, shaking her head. “There is nothing left.” She wailed. “Where do we live?” “That is why we brought tents with us,” Tsoapittse said. “It will take time to restore our home and gardens, but we will survive.” He thrust his hand toward her, while Nash strove to maintain his balance. “Look, I’ve brought you something to play with.” She bent her head and looked at Nash before prodding him with her fingertip. “Who is he? What is he?” “One of Abadon’s soldiers. He stole my boat.” Tsoapittse set Nash down on the sand. “Now he claims he is here to defend the island.” The giant burst forth in laughter. “He is yours to do with as you want.” The woman picked Nash up and stared at him. “What is your name?” “I am Captain Nash Doitsoh.” “Captain?” “Aye. I am Abadon’s guard.” He tried to keep the quaver from his voice. “May I ask by what name you are called?”

“I am Hatahli.” “And what brings you to Mount Litso?” Nash was beginning to believe he might get out of this predicament. She grimaced. “I was recently wed to him.” She pointed at Tsoapittse. “It was an arranged marriage.” She placed Nash on top of the boulder she’d used as a seat. “It may not last.” Tsoapittse was busy erecting a tent and chose not to respond. When he finished with the first tent, he stepped a few yards away and began putting up a second one. He removed two folding cots from his backpack and placed one in each tent. Then he approached Hatahli. “You may choose which tent you wish. I’ll take the other one.” Hatahli glared at Tsoapittse before inspecting both tents. After a moment’s consideration, she dragged her pack into the nearest one. “I suppose this will have to do.” She sighed. Nash looked down from the boulder. It was nearly twenty feet to the ground, and the sides of the rock were slick. He could see no way to escape, and even if he did succeed in getting down, where would he go? The escape tunnel was blocked by the shelves which were too heavy for him to move. Even though the tsunami had devastated the beach, he suspected the booby traps on the trail were still in place. For the first time in his life, he was unable to decide his fate. He plopped down on the boulder. Keep a sharp eye. Sometime, there will be a way to escape. Tsoapittse removed the rest of his belongings from his pack. When he had everything organized in his tent, he removed a flint and steel and began searching for firewood. It took the better part of an hour before he had stacked driftwood and limbs from the orchard on the beach. A few minutes, later he had a fire going.

Chapter 55

Hatahli had unpacked her knapsack and arranged her tent. When she felt all was organized, she emerged into the sunlight. She watched Tsoapittse building a fire and shook her head. What in the world had she gotten herself into? She thought back to the feast a few nights before, when King Shidah had told her she would be wedding Tsoapittse. She knew him, of course, from when his little sister had been her friend. She’d always thought he was too arrogant and bossy. There had never been any attraction between them. He was just another one of the big brothers who paid little attention to her. What kind of a king was Shidah that he would force two people to wed? Not to mention any kind of celebration. Oh, no. He’d just waited until the meal was finished, and then pronounced them man and wife. He had even asked her opinion. Hatahli fumed as she watched the flames from the campfire grow. “Would you like me to cook your breakfast?” Tsoapittse called to her. “I can do it myself,” she sneered. “As you wish.” He placed a frying pan on the fire and started mixing some sort of batter. Before long, he was pouring it into the pan. It took but a minute before he was turning the cake over. He slid it onto a plate and rolled it up, then began to eat his meal. Hatahli waited until Tsoapittse had finished before she approached the fire. “Can I use your pan?” she said, with barbed wire in her voice. “Be my guest,” he spat. It became clear that a woman who had been reared in a castle and had been served by cooks and bakers, had little knowledge as to how to cook her own meal. She tried to follow what she had seen Tsoapittse do, but her results were inedible. Her new husband watched in amusement before he finally came to her aid.

“You’ll starve if you do not accept my help.” Hatahli withdrew in a huff, and when Tsoapittse approached her with food, she reluctantly took it from him. “Thank you,” she muttered. Nash watched the exchange from the top of the boulder. There may be a way to escape. I need to continue to drive a wedge between the two of them. The woman may be enticed to open the tunnel for me.

Chapter 56

Captain Nakais trotted along the trail that led from the Bay of Nihlini to the bridge to Mount Litso. Once he’d received the command from Prince Abadon to find Captain Doitsoh and report his position, he had hurried to assemble a pack and leave for the yellow mountain. Nakais had been surprised that he had seen no one on his journey. He had not expected to see any of the black prince’s forces—they had all been assembled at the foot of Mount Destiny—but he had expected to see some of Johona’s men. He wondered where they were being assembled. He had traveled on foot rather than on his wolac so he could hide from the opposing armies if needed. He paused for a midday meal and gazed over the mirrored surface of the Sea of Tabass. Where has the Maelstrom of Tears gone? In the distance, he could barely make out a few sails. Other than that, the sea was undisturbed. He was anxious to meet with the three archers he had left with Doitsoh. They had been part of his company for the past three years, and he liked them. He flexed his back, shouldered his pack, and began jogging down the trail. “Certainly they should have captured the three escapees by now.” Nakais stopped only occasionally to drink from his waterskin, and as the sun was setting, he approached their old camping spot. The odor of decay assaulted his nostrils. He slowed to a walk, drew his sword, and crept the camp. It took but a few moments before he discovered the rotting wolac carcasses. Scavengers had eaten most of the soft parts, leaving the carapaces. “What could have happened to them?” Nakais began searching in ever-widening circles for evidence of his men but found nothing except several packs hanging from the tree branches. His heart sank in his chest. “Some evil thing has happened here.” Once he had examined the campsite, the moon was rising in the east. He headed

of the thicket and to where the bridge had connected to the yellow mountain, and realized that not only was the bridge gone, but so was the barge. “Where has that gone?” He returned to the edge of the glade and sat on a fallen tree trunk. “What do I do now?” He rummaged through his pack and retrieved some dried fruit and pemmican. “I had hoped to feast with my men, and all I find is destruction.” He chewed absently on the food while he pondered his situation. Nakais looked around. “My men would have known where Captain Doitsoh was and what he was up to. Without them, I’m reduced to finding some strategy that will answer those questions.” Total darkness surrounded him by the time he had finished his meal. With a sigh, he unrolled his blanket and settled in for the night. “Perhaps tomorrow will bring some solution.” He drifted off to sleep. The morning sun brought no answers to his problem. Nakais returned to the campsite and searched more diligently in the brightness of day. He found a few pieces of discarded clothing, and a rusting sword partially buried in the sand. He checked the markings on the blade and identified it as one made in Abadon’s forges in Mount Jinee. There was no other evidence of his men. He wandered down to the edge of the water and watched as the waves rose and fell on the beach. “They must have been overwhelmed by a larger force. Johona’s men must have attacked them.” He whirled around, wondering if they were still nearby, and cursed his inattention. “If Johona has moved his men here, he must have some nefarious scheme in mind.” He now saw the whole picture. Johona had lured Abadon into thinking he had located the three sacred stones, and was bringing them to Mount Destiny. In fact, this was only a rumor—a lie—that would cause Abadon to gather his forces at the Glittering Peak to keep anyone from getting to the Scepter of Power. The reality was that Johona was gathering his forces on the west side of the Plain of Wonadsi, where they could travel unimpeded up the side of the Tohkal River and attack Abadon in his fortress on Mount Jinee. A brilliant plan, he had to it.

He walked back along the shore, to where the bridge had spanned the channel of water. “What do I do now? I have been commanded to find Doitsoh, and I have never disobeyed a command. Yet this other information might be of more importance.” Nakais rubbed his chin with one mailed hand. “I wish I had brought another man with me. He could take the information back to Abadon. But I thought I’d have men here.” He shook his head in frustration, and his gaze wandered up the five peaks that made up Mount Litso. “I wonder if I scaled the peak, would I avoid the traps?” He decided it would take no more than a day, and then he would return to Mount Jinee having fulfilled his command, and also with what he had discovered of Johona’s plan. Nakais waited until low tide, stripped to his loincloth, and slung only his waterskin over his shoulder. He inched into the shallow water, which came up to his chest. Took cautious steps as he waded through the sea. When he reached the far side, he inspected the mountain and decided on a route to take. It led between the central spire and the next one to the north. The way appeared steep but able. He began his climb. An hour later, he rested his sweat-soaked body on a flat slab of rock and guzzled from his waterskin. He looked down the way he had come, and decided he was less than a quarter of the way up the mountain. After a few minutes rest, he continued his climb. The way became even steeper as he rose higher on the hill. Again, he paused to slake his thirst. “I can do this,” he rasped. He shook out his shoulders and continued the climb. He had underestimated how long it would take, and the sun was setting behind him as he reached the narrow between the two peaks. After resting a few minutes, he rose to his feet and crossed the craggy surface of the ageway. In the gray light of dusk, he peered down on Tsoapittse’s camp far below. He could barely make out the shapes of two figures huddled around a fire. He searched in vain for Captain Doitsoh.

Nakais cursed. “All this effort with no results,” he snarled. The air was cool, and soon Nakais was shivering. “I don’t even have a blanket, and the ground is too harsh to sleep on.” He took one last look at the fire below and realized the figures he was seeing were not men, but giants. “Fool.” He hit himself on the forehead with the palm of his hand. “I’ve been looking for a third man of that size.” He searched again in the gathering darkness until he spotted a man seated at the side of the fire—a small form in comparison to the giants. “It must be Doitsoh. He has been captured by the giant Tsoapittse and his wife, Coapiccan.” He sat on a rock. “But where are the three fugitives?” That’s when it hit him. “There are no fugitives! No one has ever escaped from Abadon’s dungeons. It was all a rumor spread by Johona to lure them into thinking the talismans had been retrieved and would be taken to Mount Destiny.” He pounded his hand on the rock in fury. His mind was still trying to see the bigger picture—a web of duplicity spun by that infernal Johona. He became even more determined that he needed to return and report what he had discovered. Besides, he now knew where Doitsoh was, and his fate at the hands of the giants. Nakais retraced his steps across the top of the and tried to decide whether to try descending the mountain in total darkness, or to wait until morning. One glance down the peak told him he was going to spend an uncomfortable night on the mountain.

Chapter 57

Velvet knocked gently on the door before entering Nashoi’s chamber. The old dragon opened one golden eye. “You needed something?” Velvet said. “The time has come,” she rasped. “Bring my daughters to me.” “As you wish.” Velvet closed the door and strode down the hallway to where the dragons lived. She knocked on the door and entered the enclosure. All nine dragons had grown to their full stature. “Your mother wishes you to visit her.” Yozons nodded. “We know.” She led the procession, as one by one, the young dragons walked down the hallway to their mother’s room. It was a tight fit, but eventually all nine of them squeezed inside. Nashoi seemed to be asleep. Yozons reached out her forefoot and touched her mother’s shoulder. “Mother, you called?” Nashoi opened her eye. “My daughters, it is time.” Her voice was as a reed in the wind. “Time? Time for what?” Yozons said. The old dragon blinked. “It is time I told you a story and prepared you for what lies ahead.” Her nine daughters adjusted themselves as they prepared for the story. “Many decades ago, there was a battle that began because of the pride of men. It was called Tihileitsoh. Your father, Bihkehe, became the steed of Sonakih, a brave warrior from the Kingdom of Saond. Your father was the leader of the dragons that followed the older son, Johona.”

The young dragons their heads. “We have heard whisperings of such a battle,” Yozons said. A tear ran down Nashoi’s cheek. “They were both wounded during the battle.” She shut her eyes as she struggled to control her emotions. In her mind, she could still see the carnage. “Bihkehe flew south with Sonakih barely alive, and found a cave behind a waterfall, where he hoped the warrior would heal.” “And where were you, Mother?” Yozons whispered. “I flew with your father, with another wounded warrior on my back.” Nashoi lapsed into silence for a moment. “I left him with Sonakih, in the cavern.” Again she paused. “Your father’s wounds were grievous. I prayed he would have the strength to return to our home.” A tear coursed down her cheek. “But it was not to be. He died while trying to protect me.” “What happened?” Yozons said. “His strength was gone, and he was forced to land in the inhospitable sands of Shayeksten. Immediately, he was surrounded by hostile troops. I tried to help him, but in the struggle, I was wounded myself. Your father gave his life as he commanded me to fly away.” “And you made it home?” Yozons said. Nashoi blinked. “Barely. I hid myself and mourned your father.” Her whole frame shook with sobs. Her nine daughters stood in silence while she regained her composure. “Then, in a desperate act of cowardice, the dragons who had followed the younger son, Abadon, slaughtered the females and the children.” She paused and took a shuddering breath. “I retreated to our cave, where I was attacked again and left for dead.” Yozons said, “But you did not die, Mother.”

Nashoi took another deep breath. “Nay. Elosha found me and ministered to me. He nursed me back to health and brought me to this island, where he knew no man would discover me.” “But Lance and Velvet and Cha—” Nashoi raised her head. “Were brought here to minister to you, as were those who went before.” She blinked slowly. “But now it is time. Elosha is old and ill. His days are numbered, as are mine.” Yozons lifted her head. “Mother, you cannot die.” “Oh, yes, my daughters, I must. When Elosha ministered to me, he gave me some of his life force in order to heal me. Since that time, we have been inextricably ed together. It is how we can communicate. As long as one of us lives, so does the other. But when one of us es on to the next adventure, so will the other.” Nashoi blinked again. “The time is near.” With a rumbling voice, she said, “The final battle looms like smoke on the horizon.”

Chapter 58

Sunlight streamed through the window and awakened Tsalix. He swung his legs over the edge of his bed, yawned and stretched. The amulet Angelica had given him last night was beneath his pillow. He removed it and examined it. The surface shimmered rainbow colors, while shining in the center was the letter T. Tsalix wondered why the princess had given the ornament to him, and what he was to do with it. He slipped into his pocket, then splashed water on his face and tried to comb his unruly hair before heading to the breakfast room. Asur was already there, nibbling on a roll. “Good morning.” He smiled. “Did you sleep well?” “Better than I have in weeks,” Tsalix said. “I think we need to get all the rest we can before we leave on our final journey.” “Well, Kwercus seems to be taking advantage of it.” Asur still wore a smile. “Oh, here he comes now.” Kwercus gathered a plate from the side table and sat next to Asur. “Does it seem awfully quiet this morning?” he said. Tsalix looked around the room. “Yes, it does. I wonder where everyone is.” He poured gravy over his biscuits. In the distance, a gong sounded, and a moment later Johona stepped into the room. “Ah, there you are. When you are finished, my father would like to speak with you.” Tsalix pushed his plate away. “We are ready now.” “Then follow me.” Johona led them down a twisting corridor until they reached a part of the castle they hadn’t seen before and stopped before an intricately carved door. He

knocked gently before opening it and stepping into the room. “Father, the men you wished to see.” Johona turned, left the room, and closed the door behind him. Drapes covered the windows, casting shadows through the bedchamber. King Elosha lay on his four-poster bed, with his white beard splayed out over the duvet. His wife sat in a chair on the other side of the bed. Tsalix, Asur, and Kwercus dropped to one knee and bowed their heads. “Please stand,” the king whispered, then coughed and wiped his mouth with a cloth. “I have something I need to say to you before you continue on your quest.” He coughed again, then waved them closer to his bed. The three of them stood next to the old man. The queen covered his hand with hers. “We await your command,” Tsalix said. The old king smiled as he coughed yet again. “As I knew you would.” He extended his arm and took Asur’s hand in his. “Asur Longtooth, you have met your cousin Sambucus, I believe.” Asur nodded. “Aye, Your Majesty. We all have.” “He is a good man, faithful and true,” the king said. “He has held a secret in his heart for most of his life.” He coughed again. “You now know that secret. The three of you have met Nashoi and her daughters, I believe.” “Aye.” Asur nodded. “We are bound to keep the secret as well.” “This is good. The time is not far ahead when they will be needed.” The king dropped Asur’s hand and reached for Kwercus’s. “Kwercus Strongheart, in some ways you have been taxed more than your brothers.” “How so, my king?” “With your father dead, you had to leave your mother alone as you carried out my commands. That is a heavy burden, my son.”

Kwercus took a deep breath. “My mother’s well-being has weighed on my mind, Sire.” The king smiled. “All will be well with her, my son. All these experiences will be for her, and your, good. No words can express my thankfulness for your faithfulness.” He let go of Kwercus’s hand and struggled to sit up in bed. Queen Nadlee stood and reached for her husband. Asur and Tsalix helped him while Kwercus arranged the coverlet over his feet and legs. “Tsalix Silverthorn, come here.” Tsalix took another step closer to the king. “It is time you learn the truth of your lineage.” He coughed and wiped his lips again. “Tell me what you know of your ancestry.” Tsalix shrugged. “I was born to the Silverthorn clan, and for the Sweetwater clan. Beyond that, I know little. My mother is—was—a seamstress of some renown. She and my father surrounded me with love and taught me to obey. But that is all I know.” The old king smiled. “They have done well, Tsalix. But they have not told you the whole story.” He looked at the three young men. “When my greatgrandfather was ruler of the kingdom, he had two sons and a daughter, as do I. While he was still a young man, and ruling the greater kingdom in peace, an old man—a prophet, they say—traveled to Hayeli. He sought audience with my great-grandfather and gave him a warning. He foresaw our day, I think, and knew of the wars for power that my estranged son would wage against his brother.” He shook his head. “Would you be so kind as to give me some water?” “Of course, Sire.” Tsalix poured a goblet-full and handed it to the old man, who took a sip. The queen sat back down on her chair. “My great-grandfather was a wise man, and he believed what the prophet had said. He mulled over how to save the kingdom, and finally came up with a plan that is only now bearing fruit.”

“What was that?” Tsalix said. “Simply this. He sent one of his sons to the far edge of the kingdom to establish a town. He took his wife with him, along with a dozen or so other families, and they founded Aravah.” “That is our birthplace,” Asur said. “Aye, my sons.” The king sipped from the chalice. “In time, his son had a son.” He looked into Tsalix’s face. “He was your grandfather, Tsalix Silverthorn.” Tsalix’s eyes grew wide. “He died before I was born.” “Aye.” The king nodded. “Your father was the son of his old age.” He coughed again. “I’m not sure I understand,” Asur said. “Does this mean Tsalix and Johona are cousins?” “Distant, but yes. They both have Silverthorn blood running through their veins.” The king smiled as he closed his eyes and sank back on his pillow. “Silverthorns,” he murmured, as he fell asleep. The queen spread the cover over her husband. Tsalix shook his head in disbelief. “Let us leave him,” he whispered, as he turned to exit the room. When they were outside the chamber, they found Johona waiting for them. “Did he give you a command?” he said. Tsalix shook his head. “Nay. Only some information, which I am still trying to digest.” Johona smiled. “You know of your ancestry?” When Tsalix nodded, Johona grasped his hands in his. “It was about time, cousin.”

“But what does all that mean?” Tsalix said. Johona’s face grew serious. “My father is old and ill. I know not how much longer he will live. But when he dies, my brother will do all in his power to become the next king. As you know, he is massing his forces and preparing for a battle, that if he wins, will place him on the throne.” “And what part do we play in this battle?” Tsalix said. “The three of you must reach the Scepter of Power, on Mount Destiny, and return the sacred stones to their places. My forces and I will do all we can to help you succeed.” “But what does that have to do with the conflict?” “It may be the last great hope to defeat my brother.” “But how?” “That remains to be seen.”