“The scorpion said to the frog, ‘But why would I do that? For if I were to do that, I would drown.’
“The frog considered this argument, and at last said, ‘Very well. I shall carry you across the river.’
“So the frog came to the shore and took the scorpion upon his back, and halfway across the river, the scorpion stung the frog.
“With his dying breath, the frog cried out, ‘Why have you done this? For now we will both die!’
“And with his dying breath, the scorpion said, ‘Because it is my nature.’ “
Nakor looked at Talon. “Eventually, should you live long enough, Kaspar of Olasko will betray you, Tal. It is his nature. And when he does, you will be free of your oath, and then you may kill him.’’
Tal sat back, uncertain of what to say. For a long, long time he reflected on what Nakor had said. Then he took a deep breath and nodded.
“I will go to Opardum. I will serve the Duke of Olasko.’’
Acknowledgments
For many years I’ve started out my acknowledgment with the Mothers and Fathers of Midkemia, and this one is no different. Each time I get to play in the world you built, I’m blessed.
Again, to all of those who have helped me survive a major change in my life over the last two years by making it better for their company, Andy, Rich, Ray and Kim, Jim and Karen, Rick and Audrey, Jim and Jenny, Mira, Leyla, Roseanna, and Rebecca, all of you, thank you. Your friendship has kept me sane, made my life richer, and returned fun to the equation.
I’d like to thank my collaborators, Janny Wurts, William R. Forstchen, Joel Rosenberg, and S. M. Stirling, for playing so nicely in my sandbox and leaving it in far better shape than they found it. It’s been a learning experience every time, and I’m a better writer for having you teach me.
And a special thank-you to my two editors, Jane Johnson and Jennifer Brehl, who for reasons well-known had to watch me burn the candle at both ends to get this one done and who kept me upright and moving forward.
About the Author
Raymond E. Feist’s novels include Magician; Silverthorn; Faerie Tale; Prince of the Blood; and The King’s Buccaneer; as well as his New York Times-bestselling Serpentwar Saga: Shadow of a Dark Queen; Rise of a Merchant Prince; Rage of a Demon King; and Shards of a Broken Crown; and The Riftwar Legacy: Krondor: The Betrayal; Krondor: The Assassins; Krondor: Tear of the Gods. He is the creator of the immensely popular computer games “Betrayal at Krondor” and “Return to Krondor.” Mr. Feist lives in Southern California.
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