The Dark-Eyed Shaman

By Jennifer Ealey

In the aftermath of Sasha and Jayhan's rescue, King Gavin learns of an upcoming invasion to Carrador.

Upon return to Highkington, eleven-year-old Sasharia and her elder brother, Jondarion, try to settle back into day-to-day life. But Toriana, the murderous aunt who killed the rest of their family, has no intention of allowing Sasha or Jon to survive, and will go to any lengths to protect her throne.

Setting out for Kimora, the two hold on to a faint hope that Sasha, by wielding her amulet, can overcome her aunt's magical binding and confront Toriana herself. But even with the help of her companions the task is monumental for a young girl, whose own undeveloped power is still raw and unwieldy.

But Sasha is the true High Shaman and holder of the dark amulet. She is the only person who can even attempt to stop Toriana before the Kimoran armies invade Carrador. And unknown to them all, another unexpected force is also in play.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Next Chapter
• Release date: Feb 23, 2022
• ISBN: 4824118158

Book preview

Map of Carrador and Kimora

PART I

1

Gavin, King of Carrador, sat at his desk in his favourite sitting room looking out into his garden, but not seeing the sunlight sparkling on the lake or the reeds swaying gently in the morning breeze that hid the swans’ nest.

Instead he was seeing in his mind’s eye a small dark-eyed girl, full of life and joy, holding hard to her recently acquired happiness, and trusting in Sheldrake, Maud, Jon and him to guide her and keep her safe as she grew into womanhood and trained for her future role as Queen of Kimora.

He sighed and ran both hands back and forth through his carefully brushed hair, destroying the painstaking work of his dresser. Then he thumped his hands down on his desk and rose, deciding to walk off some of his nervous energy on the path around the lake.

He stepped out into the soft morning light and immediately felt his tension lessen, but not by much.

No news.

On the first day, a messenger had brought back reports that Jon, Sergeant Reece, and a crack team of specialist troopers were on the trail of the abductors along an obscure trail in the southern part of the Great Forest. Trouble was, there were no facilities for keeping carrier pigeons along that trail and the squad was too small to carry pigeons or to keep sending men back with messages. So how was he to get further news? He sighed. He would just have to grit his teeth and wait.

Gavin walked across the lawn and around the lake to the spot in the reeds where he could see through to the black swans’ nest. He spent some time watching one swan sitting on the untidy pile of sticks while the other swan emerged from the reeds to clamber up to join its mate. He wondered if they had eggs incubating and then thought that Sasha would love it if they did. He gave another sigh and turned away.

Just as he headed back towards the rear of the palace, he caught sight of a small falcon spearing into view above the palace. As it glided overhead, and landed in a nearby tree, he could see it was a peregrine falcon. He was entranced to see it. Raptors of any size were rare visitors to his garden. He admired its soft cream, finely barred underbelly, its dark grey wings, and its sharp curved yellow beak. The intelligence in its eyes was disturbing. He watched it as it took off again, soaring twice around the garden before plummeting into the long reeds somewhere near the swans’ nest. Perhaps it had spotted a mouse.

Gavin watched the reeds, waiting for it to fly out when instead, he heard a muttered oath followed by the appearance of Lady Maud as she pushed aside some reeds and stepped out onto the lawn, not twenty yards from him, dressed in her leggings and a jerkin.

When she saw the king, she sank into a low curtsy while he tried to stop gawking at her. She straightened and approached him, smiling.

Gavin frowned quizzically, the morning light catching a twinkle in his blue eyes. Good morning, Lady Maud. This is an unexpected pleasure. Last I heard you were heading into the Great Forest south of some inn on Park Lane in search of your son.

Good morning, Your Majesty. Yes, that is indeed where I have been. But this seems to be a week for revealing secrets. Her smile broadened. So now you know mine.

Gavin blinked. I do? I’m not sure what I just saw… or didn’t see, actually.

I am a shape-shifter, Sire. I flew in as that peregrine falcon you saw. And since I have revealed that information to your little squad of troopers and to Jon, it seems only fair that you know too.

Thank you, he said dryly. Then his mind computed the rest of what she had said, and his eyes widened in hope. So you people who travelled from the Inn intercepted them, did you? Have you found Sasha and Jayhan?

Yes, we have them safe.

Gavin let out a long breath of relief. He stepped forward and grasped both of Maud’s forearms. Truly? That is great news. His eyes glistened in an uncharacteristic show of emotion. He generally worked on being carefully modulated in his response. When he realized he was holding onto Maud, he let go and stepped back, waving his hand. Sorry. Sorry, I’m just so relieved.

Maud hesitated a moment then stepped forward and engulfed him in one of her warm hugs. We all are. It has been a hard few days, hasn’t it?

She felt Gavin’s head nodding against the side of her head. After a few moments, she let him go and stood back smiling at him. She went to say something more, but he raised his hand and managed to get out, Just a minute. After a few moments, he cleared his throat to say, Come inside and sit down while we talk. I’ll ring for tea while you tell me everything that has happened.

Thank you, I would like that very much, she looked down at herself, although I am not exactly dressed for court. As they turned towards the palace, she tucked her hand into his arm, I have just flown eighty miles and must, with your permission of course, return as soon as possible.

Gavin raised his eyebrows but said nothing further until he had rung the bell for tea. They settled themselves in comfortable chairs when Josie, Gavin’s steward, knocked and entered, giving a slight curtsy.

Then she raised her eyebrows at Maud but managed to ignore her strange mode of dress. All visitors to the king in his living room, even if they were residing within the palace, which she knew Maud was not currently, were ushered in by Josie personally. Where did you come from?

Maud smiled at her, quite uncowed by her severe visage, which had most people running for cover. I came in through the garden.

Josie transferred her gaze to the king, a frown gathering. Our security is not doing well, Your Majesty. I thought we had just overhauled it after… hmm… recent events.

Thank you for your concern, Josie. I will take note of it. Now, could you please procure morning tea for us. Something substantial, I think? Gavin glanced at Maud who nodded confirmation.

Josie hesitated at the door and looked back at Maud, knowing she shouldn’t interrupt unless invited, but unable to help herself. Please. Any news?

Maud smiled warmly at her. They are safe. I have come to tell Gavin.

Josie breathed out and turned quickly so they wouldn’t see the tears that sprang to her eyes.

As soon as the door closed behind her, Gavin leaned forward. She has done so well. From what I understand, she instigated the search and made sure the news of the abduction was conveyed to all of us it concerned. So tell me. Who was behind the abduction? Was it Kimorans? Who rescued them and how?

Maud let out a breath that was almost a whistle. Oh my goodness. So many questions and so much you need to know before you can even understand the answers. Briefly, yes, it was the Kimorans behind the abductions. As to who found and rescued them… She smiled, It was a joint effort between Jon, Reece, Trevor and the troopers, Tarkyn, a little wood sorcerer called Midnight, Stefan, a small group of woodfolk from Eskuzor and the woodfolk of the Great Forest, two Kimoran refugee shamans, Sheldrake and of course, myself in guises as peregrine falcon, osprey, and bloodhound at various times. But above all, the children themselves.

Gavin leaned back, his eyes wide. Well, as I live and breathe. I would not have expected it to be so complicated.

Josie reappeared at this moment with two servants trailing behind her.

Ah, Josie, thank you, Gavin watched her directing the servants to lay out savoury and sweet platters, a large coffee pot, a tea pot, and two cups. This may take some time, Josie. Please cancel any appointments I have this morning.

Could I suggest for the rest of today at least, and possibly tomorrow? Maud interposed.

The king frowned and thought for a moment. Very well. Josie, cancel all of today’s meetings, and I’ll decide about tomorrow when I have heard more. He saw the restrained curiosity on Josie’s face and gave a short laugh. I will tell you what I can when I can. Maud hasn’t finished telling me yet. But you may inform people that the children have been found and are safe and sound.

Josie gave a small curtsy. Thank you, Sire. She frowned at the servants. Come on you two. Haven’t you finished yet?

The two footmen placed the last two platters of sandwiches, cakes, small pies, meats, cheeses, and fruit on the table. One of them caught Maud’s eye as he straightened and gave her a little smile of fellow feeling before bowing and retiring with his companion.

By the time she had answered Gavin’s many questions, Maud took more than two hours and three pots of coffee to relate the events of Jayhan and Sasha’s rescue. As she recounted them, she realized that the children had actually escaped by themselves, had then been rescued by the two shamans, been found by herself as a bloodhound, then defended by Jon and the troopers. After that, they had all been rescued by Midnight and his shield and finally, by the intervention of Tarkyn and the woodfolk.

But we now have a full company of Kimoran soldiers under guard, concluded Maud, and we can’t do more until we have clear direction from you. She gave a mischievous little smile. And we thought you might like to meet the woodfolk and survey the situation yourself before reaching a decision. She became more serious. And I think it would be helpful to confer with Jon, Lady Arquin from Kimora, and High Lord Tarkyn… and the woodfolk about our next steps. Sheldrake and I, your chief advisors, will also be there.

Gavin frowned. But it will take days to reach this place you’ve described. My retinue and a squad of Royal Guardsmen could carry some provisions for you people, but meanwhile, these woodfolk would have to feed many mouths. It seems too much of an imposition on them.

No, Sire. I believe we could get you there in about three hours’ time, but without guards or a retinue. She smiled. And you already have a squad of loyal troopers at the campsite on The Way Through.

Gavin was not convinced. What about these woodfolk though? Can we trust them? He tried not to widen his eyes as Maud took yet another little bacon roll.

Maud grinned as she caught his look. When did you last travel eighty miles in less than two hours under your own steam? It makes me very hungry.

Gavin threw his hands up. Sorry. I suppose it would. I have no idea how that would feel.

And whether you agree to join us or not, I must fly back shortly to tell them what you have decided.

Gavin gave a short laugh. Then be careful. Your stomach dragging along the ground could slow you up somewhat.

Maud managed to swallow her little snack before she spluttered with laughter. Oh dear. You’re probably right. I’d better stop.

So tell me how you propose to transport me to this meeting. I don’t suppose you can turn yourself into a dragon and I could ride you there? he asked hopefully.

An arrested look came into Maud’s eyes. You know, I’ve never thought of that. Mind you, I think I can only change into real animals, but it does bear thinking about. She gave her head a little shake and refocused on Gavin. No. I have enlisted Lord Tarkyn’s help to translocate you there, if you are willing.

For a long moment, Gavin just stared at her. Then he held his hand up. Wait. I need time to think.

Ten long minutes passed as he stared out into his garden. He thought through his current obligations in Highkington and decided he could ask his sister to stand in for him for a few days. Then he thought through whether it was his interest or his duty that was urging him to go, trying to work out which weighed more heavily with him and whether it actually mattered which it was. From there, his mind turned to the matter of his personal safety. He would only have a small squad to guard him among people from two other countries, including a full company of Kimoran soldiers, albeit secured, and an unknown number of these woodfolk whose loyalties and intentions were uncertain… not to mention placing himself in the hands of a foreign head of state, about whom he had limited personal knowledge.

On the other hand, Sheldrake and Maud, to whom he would turn for guidance anyway, were recommending that he go, and they would be there with him. He gave a little mental shrug. And, let’s face it, I would be very disappointed at this point if I didn’t grasp this opportunity to see what it was like to translocate and to meet these woodfolk that Lord Tarkyn has told me about. Perhaps interest aligns with duty in this case.

Gavin brought the focus of his eyes out of the garden and back to Maud’s face. He took a deep breath then gave one of his very rare boyish grins. I’ll do it.

Maud’s face lit up. That’s wonderful, Sire. Now. You will have to dress in practical clothes for camping and wear a heavy coat ready for the evening. I believe you can take a small satchel strung over your shoulder or perhaps a very small backpack, but not much. It is difficult for Tarkyn to translocate another person, so luggage would be a step too far. Seeing Gavin’s startled look, she smiled kindly. Don’t worry. The people there can provide everything you need.

Hmph. His eyes lit with amusement. Josie is not going to like this. I almost feel like sneaking away without telling her and just leaving her a note. He gave his head a little shake. No, I couldn’t do that, especially after the children’s abduction. She rose to the occasion magnificently, but I could see she was shaken. She tried to hide it beneath that fearsome exterior of hers, but you saw her. Her eyes were damp when she left us. He took a little breath. Very well. How do we do this?

Tarkyn’s translocation ability is a resummoning spell. It takes him to the place that something was created. So I will take a piece of foliage from your garden, back to Tarkyn, which he can use to translocate to here. He will bring with him a piece of foliage from near the campsite that he can then use to translocate back. Both times, his spell will take him to the place at which the foliage was created.

Huh. Ingenious.

Maud looked smug. Thanks, I dreamed up this scheme. Now, we need to find a secluded part of your garden that no one can overlook from the upper floor windows.

Gavin frowned. Why?

Because when Lord Tarkyn arrives, he will feel sick and vulnerable for a few minutes and, I assume, will not want to recover in the public view. Maud waited for Gavin to nod before she continued, Then we pick a small piece of foliage from a plant in this secluded spot and either I carry it in my beak, which strikes me as uncomfortable for a long trip, or you can strap it securely to my leg once I have transformed, so that I can carry it back to Tarkyn.

Hmm. Perhaps James the falconer would do a better job of that than I, said Gavin, looking dubious.

Perhaps, agreed Maud, but with two provisos. He can’t attach a permanent ring around my leg. It has to be easy for Tarkyn or whoever to remove it when I get to the other end, and secondly, it would be better if he doesn’t learn who I am. The more people who know that I shape-shift, the less useful it is for gathering intelligence.

Hmm. He will wonder where I acquired such a falcon… Gavin glanced at her, slightly embarrassed by being on unfamiliar territory. Would you consider becoming a pigeon instead? It would arouse less comment using a pigeon to deliver something. We use pigeons all the time. He crossed to the bookcase and after perusing the shelves for a few moments, withdrew a book on birds. He flicked through it quickly then opened a page to show her. Peregrine falcons may be the fastest birds in a dive, but I believe pigeons are equally fast, if not faster, on longer journeys.

Maud gave a little sniff. Not as exotic though, are they?

Gavin laughed. You’re a bird snob! Pigeons may not be as exotic, but they are strong, loyal, intelligent, and many of them are beautifully coloured if you take the time to study them. He shrugged. Anyway, I leave it up to you. It is, after all your area of expertise, not mine.

Maud frowned, thinking through everything she knew of pigeons and visualising a lovely grey rock pigeon flying in a flock and winging her solitary way to faithfully deliver a message. She gave a decisive nod. I’ll do it. Good idea. I’d just better let Tarkyn know before I get there in case the woodfolk have pigeon pie on the menu! Seeing Gavin’s look of enquiry, she explained how she could send Tarkyn images when she was in an animal form. Because he is a forest guardian, you understand.

Not entirely, but I don’t have to know everything straight away, said Gavin. Let us begin by finding a secluded spot, perhaps in amongst the reeds near the swans’ nest.

Together, they found a dry spot deep inside the tall reeds, hidden from view, and a strip of reed from one of the surrounding plants.

Are you ready? Maud asked the king. When he nodded, she said, Say goodbye to Josie for me. I won’t see her for a week or two, I’d say.

With that, she turned into a twinkling column of particles which shrank and coalesced into the shape of a rather solid, grey rock pigeon. She cocked her head then flew up onto Gavin’s outstretched hand.

The pigeon cote was situated, conveniently for the pigeons, but inconveniently for people, high in the stone east-facing tower. The higher the king rose up the winding stairs of the tower, with Maud perched perkily on his finger, the louder the sounds of cooing and the more tiny bits of fluff and feathers clung to the walls amongst the dust.

Twenty steps before the top, Gavin stopped to get his breath back before accosting the pigeon keeper. When he finally stepped onto the wooden floor that held the pigeon cote, the rustling and cooing of hundreds of pigeons masked his entrance and it was only when Maud cooed that Cyrus swung round, hearing her particular unknown voice among the others.

As it turned out, Cyrus, the keeper of the royal pigeons, was just as curious about Maud, as the James the falconer would have been about a new falcon.

He was a stooped, white-haired man, with a barrel-shaped body ensconced in a grey tunic that blended in well with most of the pigeons he kept. Unfortunately, he knew every pigeon in the king’s service: their age, gender, whereabouts, fitness, likes and dislikes.

When he saw the identity of his visitor, he sank into a low bow. Your Majesty. An honour.

Thank you, Cyrus, said Gavin, smiling. Do stand up. It has been too long since I came up here, hasn’t it? I used to love sneaking up here when I was a boy. Do you remember?

Cyrus chuckled. How could I forget, Sire? You kept wanting to pat the young chicks and I kept stopping you

He took Maud from where she perched on Gavin’s finger and held her up to admire her. Lovely little bird, this one, Sire. Haven’t see her before. A little overweight, perhaps, but she looks pretty healthy. Where has she come from?

Gavin improvised by saying that the pigeon belonged to Tarkyn, High Lord of Eskuzor, which made Maud cock her head in his direction. When he heard that Maud had just flown eighty miles, Cyrus suggested that another pigeon should return in her stead. Luckily, Gavin was able to say with complete honesty that no other pigeons knew their way to the particular site she had come from. Once he had fielded Cyrus’ suggestion that perhaps a pigeon cote should be set up in the middle of the forest, the king managed to persuade his enthusiastic pigeon keeper to attach a little rolled message containing the piece of reed, to Maud’s leg.

Then Cyrus walked to the window and threw Maud out into the warming morning air.

2

As soon as Maud left, Gavin sprang into action. He bid farewell to old Cyrus, promising to visit again soon, then ran down the stairs of the tower until his knees threatened to give way and he had to slow to a walk. Once down, he walked to his bed chamber and had an extensive and not altogether harmonious discussion with his valet about the attire he required for his upcoming stay in the forest. He was actually unsure himself about how casually he should dress. After all, he would be there in an official capacity, with all those present waiting on his decisions. But, on the other hand, he had to make sure he wore clothes that were comfortable and practical enough for a night or two camping the forest. And from what Maud had said, everyone else would be wearing very casual wear, and he didn’t want to appear incongruous by overdressing. Then there was the matter of a crown or even just a thin band to denote his status. No, he decided. Everyone would know who he was.

Gavin drew a breath, eyed his disapproving valet who was waiting with withering patience beside the wardrobe for his decision, and realised he was nervous about this upcoming meeting. He would have to deal with people from three nations, four, if you counted the woodfolk as a nation, all without his usual bevy of advisors and hangers-on. Maud and Sheldrake would be there, but still… Maybe he shouldn’t have agreed to go.

But he had.

He took a deep breath, dropped his shoulders, and smiled at his own temerity. Neville, please don’t glower at me. I need your help. I have to leave in about two hours. Let me tell you who will be there, why, and under what conditions. He wasn’t going to tell Neville about the woodfolk, but he would sketch the sort of life they led and describe the others.

Little did he know, but his smile had completely disarmed his stiff-necked valet, even before his admission that he needed help. From then on, Neville eschewed his normal strict adherence to Royal Sartorial Expectations and actually listened to what Gavin was saying.

Once he was dressed in a plain tan ensemble with no lace, practical pockets and soft leather boots, Gavin asked for a picnic table to be set up on the lawn close to the reeds, not so close that he would disturb the swans but close enough that he would become aware of Tarkyn’s arrival. He ordered a pot of coffee for himself and a jug of iced water, to be replenished periodically with more ice, and various small, tasty snacks that might tempt a someone who was recovering from nausea. He sat down at the table with writing implements and his diary, to make sure he did not leave chaos behind him. He was, after all, a methodical, caring king.

Once he was clear about possible issues as he saw them, he sent a footman to invite Josie to join him and to bring an extra cup.

When she arrived, he began, as promised, by giving her an edited version of the events that Maud had described. Then they spent half an hour going through his schedule for the next two days before Josie left to organise the changes that would be needed. He had not yet explained to her that he would be heading off into the forest, only that he would be otherwise occupied.

It was after midday before anything happened. Gavin had eaten several of the assortment of snacks as lunchtime came and went, and he had worked his way through another pot of coffee. Judging by the way his jaw kept clenching, he was beginning to think the extra pot of coffee, on top of what he had already consumed with Maud, had been a bad idea. Still, it might just be the tension of waiting.

He’d just decided he might stand up and take a turn around the lawn to ease his growing stiffness when he heard a thud and a low groan issuing from the reeds. Restraining himself from rushing in, he granted Tarkyn a few minutes’ grace before calling softly, Lord Tarkyn? Is that you? When you are ready, follow the sound of my voice. I have chilled water waiting for you.

Of course it’s me. Who else did you think it would be?… Sorry. After a lot of rustling, the voice came again. How do I get out of these bloody reeds?

Gavin gave a low laugh and stepped forward to hold the nearest pair of bulrushes apart, expecting to find Tarkyn behind them. Instead, he heard splashing and quiet cursing. He manoeuvred his way into the reeds to be confronted by the sight of Tarkyn up to his ankles in water, completely disoriented and headed away from him towards the lake and the nearby swan’s nest.

Gavin suppressed a chuckle and called quietly, This way. Turn around. I’m right behind you.

Tarkyn turned and frowned fiercely at him. And you can wipe that grin off your face. Navigation is not my best suit, not at any time, let alone when I’m feeling sick and in a strange place. He clambered out of the water and stood with his hands on his hips, green slime, mud, and water trickling down the lower part of his legs. Slowly a grin spread over his face. You are being most forgiving of my crankiness. You have no idea how much grief I get from the woodfolk for my atrocious sense of direction. Lapping Water is continually amazed and amused by my ineptitude. She will be delighted to hear of my latest effort. He looked down at his sodden boots and trouser legs, then up at the cloudless sky. Oh well. They will dry soon enough. He gave a sudden shudder. Ah. Well, at least that’s over for now. I’m beginning to feel better. Chilled water, did you say?

When they exited the reeds onto the lawn, Tarkyn noticed two guards on either end of the terrace and several on the ramparts above, with their arrows trained on him. He looked at Gavin and raised his eyebrows.

Gavin shrugged. Best I could do, I’m afraid. Their preference was to dog my footsteps and stand just at the edge of the reeds, ready to pounce on you as you emerged. Gavin gave them a hand signal that caused them all to stand down. As soon as the king and the high lord reached the table and took seats, Gavin poured a glass of water for Tarkyn and indicated the food platters that had recently been refreshed. For you, if or when you are hungry.

Tarkyn nodded his thanks and took a long draught before saying, I’m not surprised your guards are overprotective, after what happened. He lowered his voice. Have you told them of your plans to come with me, unguarded, into the forest?

I have left a note. Gavin gave a small smile. I don’t like having arguments I may not win, when I am determined for the outcome to go my way.

Tarkyn smiled in return, not for a moment considering it a sign of weakness that the king was avoiding a confrontation with his guards. After all, it is their duty to protect you, and protocol dictates that you should be guarded at all times, so you don’t stand much chance of winning that argument. He took another draught of water. Aah. That’s better. Any chance of a coffee while I’m here. We have a variety of teas in the forest but no coffee.

Gavin raised his hand, and a footman came running, took the order, and left. He was not particularly surprised when he saw the coffee tray being borne by Josie, rather than one of her underlings.

Good afternoon, Josie, said Gavin, his eyes twinkling at her ill-concealed curiosity. I believe you have met High Lord Tarkyn. As you know, he and I hold the same rank, more or less, in our respective countries.

Josie dropped a curtsey to Tarkyn, How do you do, Sire? A very unorthodox mode of arrival, might I say?

Lord Tarkyn and I will be spending the next day or two together.

Without allowing her eyes to travel over the men’s attire, she said, I gather this is an informal visit, Sire? While she was speaking, she emptied the tray of a coffee pot and two fresh cups, a jug of milk, and a small bowl of sugar.

Gavin nodded his thanks. Yes and no. Matters have arisen from the abduction of Sasha and Jayhan that I need to resolve. He took a deep breath, knowing he was about to outrage his steward. He handed her an envelope. Here are written instructions. But basically, Lord Tarkyn and I will be absent for a couple of days while I travel into the forest with him, using translocation. He had limited knowledge of magic, so he glanced at Tarkyn to make sure he had used the term correctly. Tarkyn gave a tiny nod. I will take no guards from here, but a squad of my troopers awaits us at the other end. I plan to return sometime on the day after tomorrow, he turned to Tarkyn, if that is convenient to you?

Josie’s mouth pinched as she took in his words and both men braced themselves for her next utterance but instead, she smiled. Sire, I think a short adven… sojourn away would do you the world of good. Your role dictates that you must be so serious, so much of the time, and we wouldn’t want your eyes to lose their twinkle. A faint flush rose in Gavin’s cheeks, which made Josie’s smile broaden. I can see you’ve already worked your way around Neville, Sire.

At Tarkyn’s look of enquiry, Gavin said shortly. My valet.

And what about Captain Bryant? asked Josie.

You will find a letter for him in the envelope I have just given you.

Very wise, Sire.

A small grin of understanding passed between king and steward.

Have I covered everything, Josie?

I don’t suppose you could take a carrier pigeon with you, could you, Sire?

Gavin glanced at Tarkyn who shook his head and replied, No. It would be convenient for us, but I am pushing my powers to take another person with me. So I don’t want to jeopardize the two of us by straining my powers even further. We’ll get word to you if we need to.

And when do you intend to leave? asked Josie.

As soon as Tarkyn has recovered, I think.

Tarkyn smiled at her. In half an hour or so. That should give me time to enjoy your excellent coffee and these lovely little delicacies. And it is a pleasant change to sit in manicured gardens. This is a beautiful area you have here.

It is, Sire, Josie took a deep breath, and they could see she was finding it hard to depart. Look after him, Lord Tarkyn, she said in a rush, then bobbed a curtsy and walked briskly away across the lawn before he could reply.

3

While Maud was winging her way to Highkington, Sparrow, Tree Fern, Spinifex, Autumn Leaves, and Waterstone had set out to hunt for red deer. When Stefan, Jon and Reece asked if they could join them, Waterstone had noticeably hesitated before agreeing.

I won’t come if I’m going to hinder you, said Stefan, a little stiffly. After all, the important thing is to find enough meat to feast the king and feed the hordes this evening. I know I don’t yet have your woodcraft, but I have spent a lot of time in the woods, growing up.

Waterstone considered him for a minute. I am not so concerned about you as about your two friends here. Jon, what experience do you have?

I’ve done a lot of sneaking around but in the city not the country. And I can use a knife. Jon’s eyes twinkled. I’m willing to learn and will stay out of your way when I need to.

Spinifex grimaced. We can’t give you a crash course in stealth in the forest. Just try to put your feet where we do and avoid leaves and twigs. It takes concentration, especially at first. Not sure about the knife but…

Reece, if you are the equivalent of Eskuzor’s elite guard, you should be pretty good. Waterstone grinned. Not as good as us, perhaps, but pretty good. One of our friends, Danton, who is an elite guard, travelled with us for a while and he was skilled at stealthy movement.

As they threaded their way through the trees, looking for tracks, a thought struck Reece. Just a minute, he whispered to Sparrow. Danton. Isn’t that the name of the prince consort?

Sparrow nodded. Yep. That’s him. He’s Rainstorm’s bloodbrother, she added, clearly considering this far more important than his high rank.

Huh.

They soon picked up the trail of a small herd of deer and tracked them over the next half an hour, keeping quiet and low. Stefan thought he might have missed the first signs of the deer’s passage that they picked up, but once Sparrow had pointed them out, he could follow the trail from there. He found it slightly galling that a thirteen-year-old noticed things he missed, but he reminded himself that she had learnt it all her life from experts, whereas he had had to teach himself.

As they crept forward, Waterstone said quietly to him. Stay low. The deer are up ahead behind that next line of trees. Hear them?

Stefan cocked his head and listened. He nodded.

We are going up into the trees, murmured Waterstone. To do that quietly, you have to look for a solid branch to flick onto that is on the other side of the tree from the deer, not too close to the outer foliage so that you don’t rustle the leaves.

Spinifex frowned at the two outsiders, wondering what to do with them. Reece and Jon, what weapons do you have?

Reece patted his sword and knife while Jon indicated his sheathed knife.

Spinifex screwed his face up. I’m not sure how much good they’ll be against deer. Might be better if you just wait here and watch what you can through the trees. We should have armed you better. Just make sure you don’t get yourselves trampled if any of them break in this direction.

Stefan experienced a moment of torn loyalties. Should he stay with Reece and Jon or go with the woodfolk? He had met Jon several times at Sheldrake’s place, and he had trained Reece over many months and knew him well. He also knew his archery skills might protect them if they got into difficulties. On the other hand, he still had a lot to learn from his woodfolk kin.

Seeing the indecision on his face, Jon patted him on the shoulder. Go, my friend. You will get a better shot from the trees, and we need all the food we can get.

Stefan’s brow cleared. Then he was gone.

Jon and Reece hunkered down behind a large tree and waited.

A few minutes later, they heard deer crashing through the undergrowth, as the small herd broke into panic-stricken flight. To their left, a doe and two fawns jumped through a small screen of saplings and fled past them. Then, further ahead of them, a recently matured buck plunged through long grass into the open and headed straight for them.

Jon stepped out from behind the tree, took aim and threw his long stiletto, all in one fluid movement. The buck kept coming and Jon ducked back behind the tree. But well before it reached them, its forelegs buckled, and it sank to the ground. Jon peered around the trunk of the tree and gave himself a nod of satisfaction before glancing back at Reece, who hadn’t moved.

Got it. But we’d better stay here in case any more come through.

They heard three more crash past on their right and a few seconds later a straggler galloped past on their left. Then quiet returned to the bush.

Reece gave a self-deprecating smile. "I didn’t even try. A sword would be no good against a speeding deer. I’d have to get too