An Unexpected Ally

But it was time to make a decision. Though Ishtaar had mentioned it might be there, Saad had received a confirmed hint. He couldn't waste the opportunity, though it must be difficult. Ishtaar, with a cloth covering her face, could still sense Saad's unease.

"Are you thinking of going to the icy mountains?" she asked, her voice soft yet piercing.

Saad decided it couldn't hurt to let Ishtaar in on his thoughts. "I received a hint that I might find the Tome of Time there," he admitted.

Ishtaar's expression turned serious. "It's dangerous. Though I see power in you and you have a good protector, it still might not be enough to take on the threats the icy mountains present."