disc, Gilin was silent only briefly. Deploring the idea of leaving her behind, he knew they had but one choice. “The two of us can make it. I have the knowledge; you have experience. And perhaps we’ll find the others along the way.”

    “Brave lad,” said the elder. “So be it. We must collect food and prepare for departure. I’ll leave a message for Speckarin. If they return, they’ll know we’ve gone on, and they’ll be very surprised who’s with you.”

    The overseer created his Ruvon message near the fire. Then he stood silently, staring down at the one the magician had made. “Good-bye, old friend,” he said. He turned and boarded Alsinam and they departed.

    They headed eastward under...

Please subscribe to keep reading.