Dappled sunlight poked through the web of tree-limbs and towering branches, bringing a surge of warmth to the new day. Thealos came awake when Jaerod passed through the camp, telling them that it was time to leave. A few hours of sleep was all they were given. But timing, Jaerod had said, was important. Thealos felt sluggish, but he roused himself, rolled up his blanket, and tugged on his boots. The rest of the group finished gathering their blankets and hurried down a quick meal before Jaerod broke away from Allavin to join them.
“You look weary this morning,” Jaerod announced with a sad smile. “I wish I didn’t have to tell you that sleep will be precious in the days ahead. Would that we could have stayed at the Catpaw for a night – your rest would have been better there.” His gray eyes went to each of their faces. “But we need to reach Landmoor quickly, before it falls, and there is a Bandit regiment and a Sorian blocking the way. Thealos and I can go on alone. You need not risk your lives. If you wish, Talbin will allow you to stay in Castun until we return.”
He waited, but no one had changed their minds. Thealos was grateful. Flent and Ticastasy seemed nervous, but determined. Justin scowled, anxious to be on his way to Avisahn instead, but willing to postpone the journey until they had accomplished the task. But he had only promised to go with them in return for Thealos’ word that they would bring the Silverkin to the Shae once they’d claimed it. Sturnin studied Jaerod skeptically, and it was clear by his expression that he was still convinced that the fortress of Landmoor would hold for several weeks and determined to prove it.
“I’ve talked with Allavin and Sturnin, and we feel the least dangerous time to attempt to cross the army is at night. They will be watching for us, so it will not be easy – but I would rather try to slip through than fight my way through…if at all possible. If the Sorian decides to get involved, leave that to me.” He gave them all a confident smile. “I know a few tricks the Shae scouts didn’t. You are to go on without me if I’m delayed. Thealos’ mission is the linchpin. He must get to Landmoor at all costs. He must claim the Silverkin Crystal and bring it safely out of there. Allavin, would you give the marching orders?”
The lean woodsman nodded and stepped forward. “The Iron Point Road is well-traveled and clear. Not many rough spots until we reach the Shoreland swamps. This half of the forest is dry and flat, but the southern half is jagged and wet. That’s where it will be difficult, but it will also help us dodge the regiment and Kiran Thall. It will take at least two, maybe three days to cross the Shadows Wood. It’s thicker to the east and west – that’s why they cut a road here. Wide enough for an army to march. Jaerod asked me to scout ahead, to warn us of ambushes and approaching horsemen. Sturnin Goff will take the front, then Justin and Ticastasy. Flent will linger in the back, and Thealos, I want you to bring up the rear. You will help keep anything from sneaking up behind us. I always want a bowman in the front and the rear.” He put his hands on his hips. “Good enough?”
“You are one of the best,” Jaerod complimented. “Take the lead, Allavin.”
Allavin smiled and went off ahead of them. His lean body had a long stride and puffs of dust came up from his boots. He moved quickly, in the Silvan stepwalking pattern.
A few moments later, Jaerod led them down a short embankment in the trees and onto the road. The Sleepwalker walked ahead of the rest. Thealos watched Ticastasy’s hair bounce and Flent rub his ale-bleary eyes. Justin hugged his rustling robes. Sturnin looked menacing in his splotched armor, and Thealos was glad to have him in front.