Free The Crown Of Yensupov (Book 3) by C. Craig Coleman Page B

River with its icy lace fringes.
    “Looks like Bodrin will be well enough to travel in about a week. We’ll leave as soon as we can without endangering him. I hate for him to move so soon but it’s a race against time, isn’t it?”
    “Yes, and now we’re hunted.”
    Saxthor looked to Tournak. “We have to find the jewels and get back to Memlatec before these infiltrations turn to open war, and with each day, Dreaddrac’s minions gain on us. Some of these enemy penetrations into the kingdoms make it appear the war is already underway.”
    “Hendrel and Astorax are getting fidgety, too,” Tournak said. “It’ll be good to get moving again. By the time we secure the Prertstenian jewel, the Dark Lord will know what we’re up to. He’ll be frantic to catch us before we get back home and the journey back to Konnotan will take a long time.”
    “Yes, but Bodrin must be well enough to withstand the journey’s strain. If they discover us, we’ll have to move fast to escape. We all need this rest; it’s the first we’ve had since Hador.”
    “What’re you two up to out here on the battlements?” Hendrel asked, walking up from the stairs.
    “We’re discussing when we’re leaving,” Tournak said.
    “Soon, I hope.” Hendrel rubbed his hands together in the chilly air. “The sooner we get going, the sooner we get to go home.”
    “I think he’s enjoying the adventure,” Tournak said. “His shop will seem dull now. Are you in such a rush to get home?”
    Grinning, Hendrel made a punching gesture at Tournak’s shoulder.
    They started back down the tower stairs savoring the camaraderie they seldom had time to appreciate. Astorax and Twit met them on the stairs. Twit now seemed to enjoy bobbing along perched in Astorax’s antlers.
    “Did we miss a conference?” Astorax asked. “Not to spoil the fun, but I hope we’re leaving soon. These Feldrik people are worrying me. They can’t seem to get used to the fact I’m the legendary Astorax. Some of these men have heard tales of me from their relatives back home. They can’t decide whether to shake my hand or shoot me for a trophy.”
    All four men laughed and returned to their quarters.
    Later that day, Saxthor met with Feldrik’s commanding general in his office, his thick graying mustache and bushy eyebrows reinforced the general’s stern expression. He looked up from behind his desk hearing Saxthor approach. His paperwork framed the general and set off his dark green uniform with its gold braid and metals.
    “General, we need to leave as soon as Bodrin is well enough. That should be in about a week. Is that permissible?”
    “I sent word to both the duke and King Grekenbach when you arrived. By the time you’re ready to leave, we should know if your story is valid or not. Meanwhile you’ll continue to be our guests here at Feldrik.”
    When Bodrin was mostly healed and able to walk with only a slight limp, Saxthor became anxious to resume the mission. He’d seen the Dark Lord’s activities had increased since they began the quest. It wouldn’t be long before Dreaddrac’s armies would march. I’m running out of time, he thought.
    Bodrin was well enough to travel when the general sent for Saxthor. This time, when Saxthor reached the general’s office, the commander was standing in front of his desk, almost at attention, focused on his visitor.
    “Prince Saxthor,” the general said, bowing deeply. “Forgive my not recognizing your position sooner. I had to verify what you said. King Grekenbach has sent word that you're indeed a prince of Neuyokkasin. We're to provide any and all the assistance you request within our means. Apparently you made quite an impression on his majesty.”
    “Thank you, General. You’ve been most kind, and our stay with you has been most refreshing. However, we need to leave as soon as possible.”
    “I understand, Your Highness. You’ve but to tell my aide what you need and we’ll put our resources at your