‘I have a theory,’ said Amirantha.
‘Let’s hear it,’ said Jim, sitting back in his chair. His beard was starting to grow and Sandreena had no doubt that by the time he walked the streets of Krondor the next day, he would be his disreputable looking self again. One day, she might forgive him, for the part he played in the most painful period of her life, but she’d never forget his hand in it.
Amirantha said, ‘Dahun was fleeing. He came here to hide.’
Pug and Magnus exchanged glances, and Gulamendis said, ‘That would explain a great deal.’
‘Hide from what?’ asked Brandos. ‘I’ve faced enough demons in my day to know they’re hardly timid.’
‘That I don’t know,’ admitted Amirantha.
‘Perhaps those other demon kings?’ suggested Laromendis.
‘Perhaps,’ said Pug, ‘but I doubt it.
‘There’s something else behind all of this, a deeper cause of all the troubles that have visited this world since before any of us were born.’ He let out a long sigh. ‘It will eventually make itself known, but until it does, we can only pride ourselves on this victory and wonder how long we have to enjoy the newly won peace before we must prepare for the next attack.’
‘You’re certain there will be one?’ asked Sandreena.
‘As certain as I am of anything,’ said Pug.
The conversation ceased leaving them in silence.
Acknowledgements
As always, I am indebted to those who created Midkemia and allowed me to use it. Without their creativity the world of Midkemia would be far less vivid. So, Steve A, Jon, Anita, Conan, Steve B, Bob, Rich, April, Ethan, and everyone else who con tributed, my continued thanks.
Thanks to two people who always give support and friendship, Richard Spahl and Ray McKnown. And thanks to Kim McKnown for battling through and keeping me smiling every time I see her.
I also, once again, thank Jonathan Matson for far more than wise counsel and his business acumen, but for an abiding friendship which I cherish.
Thanks to my mother, still, for being there.
Special thanks to a remarkable lady, Theresa Duchinsky, for being so wonderful.
Lastly, and most deeply, to my children for their love and beauty; they still drive me crazy while keeping me sane and I am loving the adults they’re turning into before my eyes.