The Message

The next morning, James woke up as early as he could and went to the balcony to look at the city below him. He saw the Snake army moving some slaves which he guessed were from his country. He then moved back into the room and made his prayers to the gods. After the prayers, he went to clean himself up and after an hour, everyone had woken up and were greeting each other and went to bow to the small statue of herlock in the small shrine.

While everyone were having breakfast together, a falcon went through one of their windows and dropped a piece of parchment on the table. The parchment read "To James from Domnic" at the top and Father ugu gave it to him. James then unfolded the parchment and started reading. It said:

"James, I was so delighted when I heard that you were safe and sound. I arrived at the camp at the Dead desert a bit late but I am safe. I am also writing this to tell you about your Uncle Francis who stays at Fadian which is the safest country so far in the continent. I want you to go there with your friend Cletus and stay there for a little time while the army regroups in Derbias.

Please don't be stubborn. I will send some soldiers to escort you to the blood River which you will cross to go to Fadian. I have also sent a message to your Uncle to expect you and when you get there,write me a letter."

James then took a smaller piece of parchment and replied in the affirmative on the parchment and called his falcon to send it to his father.

" I and Cletus are going to Fadian." James announced. Father ugu then told Ferdinand to get them some bread and beer which they would need for their journey.

James was still picking his load when the door opened and joy came in and hugged him from behind.

" I hope you know that you and Cletus are not going without I and Dorcas?" She said softly. " I can't let you follow us it is too dangerous and I would curse myself if you ever get hurt." James said as he faced her.

" I don't care about danger anymore I want to be with you she said as tears dropped from her eyes and Dorcas and Cletus came into the room.

"Don't worry, there will be guards following us all the way to the blood river. We will be safe." Cletus said as he held Dorcas's hand. Joy then held him and gave him a suggestive gesture and after a few moments of silence, he obliged and they all started packing up together. Cletus kept discussing with Dorcas and they were just laughing at their jokes. James then picked up his pickaxe and sharpened it while singing some Chanchanian chants alongside joy.

After some time they were done packing up and they were ready to go and Ferdinand and Father ugu gave them enough bread, water and beer while they waited for the army escorts to arrive.