Chapter 223

WHEN THE SONG ROUSED THE crowd again Loushka dropped the images. The soldiers of the guards and cavalry sang together, while the goblins joined in with their drums. At the conclusion, everyone who hadn't participated applauded, and I spontaneously made the undulating cry that belly dancers did, making Sian and Kassie laugh in memory of our short-lived hobby years ago. The cave rung with noise and voices until Rashid stood at the fire, waiting for everyone's attention. To give him a hand I flared the fire up and the crowd settled.

In a clear stern voice Rashid began. 'Finally, we've reached the eve of our destiny. Tomorrow will bring sky. It will bring battle and an uncertain future. Know we fight for the freedom of all on Gar'nyse. Lives will be sacrificed but we won't mourn until the deed is done. The tyrant Sorceress will fall!'

The last shouted words made all the soldiers holler in response and I resisted the urge to block my ears. Ignatius caught the slight wince I made and laugh