Fingering it, he started back toward his parents, followed by the stares of all Shillitoes, including the wizened queen. Articles of magic were rare in the region, and all nine hundred eighty-seven wanted to see him bounce it. But shy and meaning to do it privately, he didn’t.

    Turning to Lanara, Speckarin touched her foot with his. “We will think of you on our journey and when we return home. Rest assured, Runagar is one of us. We know not what lies in store, but if any of us can bring him back, we will.”

    Standing near the great Glinivar were Runagar and his family. The old queen glanced at him and blinked as a disturbing thought passed through her mind. He wouldn’t return. She didn’t know what would happen to him, but she and her t...

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