War of the Words/Chapter 18

"Darin, what happened to you? You look old and weathered," Jano demanded after Darin had spent the better part of an hour revealing not only the events in Neld but his own plans for Deren. The plans for Neld were met with concern but Darin was disconcerted to see his own plot dismissed summarily.

"Your plan was foolish. While Tralin was concerned about his reception and kept up his guard, we received nary a rumble," Draynor had responded. "Too many people love and respect me and have come to care for Tralin as well. Race has nothing to do with the people's respect, Darin, only equity."

"While I was thinking that for a dead man you looked remarkably fresh," Darin quipped, returning his attention to the present. "So will I be tortured?"

"Tortured?" Jano asked. "I don't think so; I don't remember being tortured though they assure me I most probably was your spy."

"Were my spy?" Darin asked. "They assure you? Have you taken leave of yourself?"

"In a matter of speaking, old friend," Jano replied and rapped his skull. "The spell that froze me apparently knocked out some connections up here."

"I see," Darin replied. "What will they do to me, then?"

"I dunno."

"Whereas I can answer that question fully," Tralin said, stepping into the chamber. "You will travel with the Frogzard Knights and myself to Neld, where we will learn the whereabouts of and extricate any surviving Knights of Deren and any unfortunate refugees of Neld who may have survived the onslaught. You have promised to show us a way into Neld safely, then you shall do so! Prepare, we leave at the first light."

"So soon?" Darin responded with dismay.

"Of course," Tralin answered. "Before you came here I was planning on going to the front anyway. Surely your spies were astute enough to know what was common knowledge on the front line."

"Yes, only..." Darin began, but the Drakel interrupted his objection.

"Enough, Vandarian. Just be ready."

"Very well, Drakel. Does Jano come with us?"

"No, Jano remains here. He is not fit to be fighting rampaging undead and his presence here may help to sway your cooperation. Of course, were you intent on selling him out, it would not do you any good. At the first sign of treason, I personally will forfeit your protection." Tralin turned and left.

"I have never seen Tralin show as much emotion as he does with you."

"That was emotion? How can you tell? I just read it as cold menace."

"It was to be sure, but.."

"Never mind, I can care less about the Drakel's demeanor. Tell me all that has happened since you awakened. You remember nothing of what befell you?"