Jonas was young , only twenty , yet he had been in the army since he was in his late teens . His father had been a general , and Jonas had grown up learning from him about battles and weapons . Now he was in charge of the group that was searching for the gryphons , marching from Dalentia to the caves near the border of Stargonia and Olandern . Jonas 's angular , clean shaven face often held a serious expression , his blue eyes calm and alert , and his mouth set in a straight line . His nose , which had been broken when he was a boy , had never healed properly and was crooked . His black hair hung to just below his jaw , and he kept it tied back and out of the way . At first glance , one would have thought him stern and harsh , but he was kind , and although sober , he knew when to be lighthearted and jovial . His men willingly followed him ; they knew he was wise and trusted by the rebellion . " Boaz , Tristan - run on ahead and look for caves . You know what signs to look for try to be back by nightfall , we will not make camp until dark . I want to get as far as possible today . " Boaz and Tristan , barefoot and dressed only in tunics belted at the waist , set off running , the wind tousling their hair . The two runners had worked together since they were very young , traveling together , looking out for each other , and each ready to die for his friend . As young boys , they had gone through school and training at the same time , finally both joining the army and now helping search for the gryphons . Jonas continued the march , and his men followed him . They moved as quickly as possible through the day , stopping only to eat at midday . As darkness fell , Jonas gave the order to make camp , and by the time they had eaten dinner and all their tents and mats were ready , Boaz and Tristan were back . They were exhausted , and while two men attended to them , bringing them food and water , they told Jonas of their finds . Tristan spoke first . " We saw the caves in the distance . They 're a long ways away , but we should be able to reach them before three days are out . Of course , we didn 't go into the caves , we didn 't want to risk anything , and we had to turn back because the sun was starting to set . " He stopped , as if not wanting to say something . " But the ground was bloodstained . Three mounds were there , built by men . Ciaran was there before us . " He hesitated . " We can find out more tomorrow . " Boaz stood and looked at the camp and the men gathered around him , Tristan , and Jonas . " They may do the same to us . " " However they may be on the same side as us . When we reach the caves , nobody will touch their weapon unless a gryphon makes the first move . Do I make myself clear ? " Jonas 's eyes were earnest , and they held the attention of all his men . " Good . Now get some sleep . We have no time to lose . " Riona knocked one final time , and then took a step back , moving a bit closer to Eunan . A small window in the door opened , and a pair of eyes appeared . Riona heard the nun gasp and wondered why . " We 've come for protection from Ciaran , or well , she has . " Eunan replied . " I 've lived with her family for quite a few years now , and her parents wanted her to come here for safety . " " Protection we can offer , at least for some time . There 's no telling how long it will be until Ciaran comes even here . And you , young man , you may stay the night her if you wish . " " I understand . If you come with me , I can show you to one of the spare rooms . I believe we have an empty one you can use . " Riona followed the nun up three flights of stairs . If it hadn 't been for Eunan walking only a step or two behind her , she would have been scared - really , really scared . At the top of the third flight , the nun turned to the left down a small corridor , at the end of which was a door leading to the spare room . Unlocking the door , the nun opened it and silently returned to her duties . Eunan stepped inside and set Riona 's bags down in a corner . Riona closed the door and sat down on the bed , her lower lip beginning to tremble . Eunan sat down beside her . " Riona , things will get better . And soon . " Eunan sighed , looking at Riona carefully . " I liked the old Riona better - the lively one , the Riona with a spring in her step . You used to be the first to laugh ; the first for fun , the first to start playing a game . I miss that . When I come back , I want to see that in you again . . . please try , Riona . " " I 'll try . . . It 's just . . . it 's so hard . . . " A tear ran down her cheek and she buried her face on Eunan 's shoulder . " I don 't want to say goodbye . " She was beginning to hyperventilate ; her words came out unevenly , and her breath came in sharp , deep breaths . Eunan held her close , stroking her hair . He kissed the top of her head , trying to calm her down . " I don 't want to , either . But it won 't be that long . Things will start moving quickly as soon as we 're able to gather an army . " Eunan stood quickly , steadying Riona as he did . Riona wiped away her tears , and then got to her feet . Eunan swept her up in a huge brotherly hug , then left , leaving Riona alone . " She 's here , yes . " The nun who had welcomed Riona told the Abbess . " Yes , mother . " The nun left the room , hurrying up to the tower room in which the pigeons were kept . She tied a message to each pigeon 's foot , sending them out to their designated cities - the pigeons had been trained a few years before to fly to certain cities when released , so in times like these they could be used and be trusted to fly to the correct destination . Riona watched as the pigeons flew off , leaving from the same place and then dispersing , like grains of wheat on the wind . She brushed a last tear off her face , and prayed for Eunan . He would be on his way to Faerloe by now , but it would be a long journey , as he was on foot . Poor Eunan - it would be lonely for him , he always loved to have some sort of company with him . He would have the mountain animals , but they weren 't much help when one wanted to talk . Yet she knew he would not be alone . Riona was glad that Eunan had the Creator as his best friend . This friendship had only come shortly after Matthias had left the first time , when Eunan began to understand hope . The change had been so immense and so sudden . The old Eunan had been left behind him an instant . . Deep inside , Riona knew that Eunan would not be alone on this journey , and this thought comforted her . Although she held this comfort , she was worried that Eunan would be captured or killed , and that would hurt her deeply . She longed for the day when Olandern would be saved and they would be reunited . Riona prayed that this day would come soon as she stood at the window . She imagined Eunan out there watching , and waved . In her mind , she pictured Eunan turning , smiling , and waving back to her . The image brought tears to her eyes , but she was thankful that Eunan 's face was deeply imprinted in her mind so she would never forget him , no matter what happened . As Eunan went down the mountainside , he turned and looked back at the convent one last time . He said a silent prayer for Riona , praying for courage , peace , and hope for her . He knew she would stay strong on her own , especially with the Creator at her side , but she would lonely , and would probably spend most of her time alone outside , as the weather permitted . Already it was getting cold up there , the snow didn 't usually fall until January or February , but in December the wind became strong and things sometimes froze . Eunan shouldered his pack and turned away , setting off toward Faerloe . Two days later , Jonas woke his men early , knowing they were within a day 's distance of the gryphons . Breakfast was quick , and then they were marching again . Jonas expected to be at the caves by nightfall , hopefully before then . Boaz and Tristan were with Jonas at the front of the army , discussing what to do when they reached the caves . Boaz and Tristan nodded , then moved back with the troops . The sun had set by the time they reached the plains , and the men were struggling to keep warm . Once fires had been made and blankets pulled out , they laughed , sang , and joked as they ate . Jonas sat a ways away from everyone , half smiling as he watched them . He was glad they were in good spirits , but something weighed heavily on his mind . What if the gryphons were not in the caves ? What then ? Many would count the rebel cause lost . The caves were their last hope , the rest of the country had already been searched many times , all with no sign of the gryphons . His mind whirling with unanswered questions , Jonas bent his head and began to pray . The cave was dark . . Jonas entered cautiously , a lighted torch held high above his head . In the dim light it gave off , he could only see shadows . There were walls on both sides of him , so he moved forward . An open space lay before him , enclosed on all sides except the one he was on . It was empty . There was no answer except his echo . He slumped against a wall , dropping his torch and putting his head in his hands . " I thought for sure they 'd be here . . . " Something moved behind him , making a loud noise . . . Jonas woke with a start , shaking his hair out of his eyes . Looking around , he noticed everyone had gone to bed . Getting to his feet , he walked around the camp . There were not many men , only twenty or so , yet every man counted . Jonas knew that before freedom was won , many would die fighting . He wished fighting wasn 't necessary to overthrow Ciaran , there was probably a better way to take care of everything , but no one wanted to try to figure out how . Still walking Jonas silently named each of his men as he passed by them . He stopped by the youngest of them all , Brodi , a lad who was not yet seventeen , but like so many others , an orphan who had escaped into Stargonia from Olandern . Brodi , his curly brown hair tangled and falling into his eyes , lay on his back , eyes open and staring up at the stars . Jonas knelt by the boy 's side . " I 'm worried about what tomorrow might bring . If the gryphons are there , who knows what they might do . And if they 're not . . . we 're doomed . I keep thinking , though . I 've wanted to see a gryphon my whole life . " Brodi turned onto his side and looked Jonas in the eye . " They 're such beautiful , majestic creatures . Even if I glimpse one as I lie dying , it 'd still be worth it . " Jonas ruffled Brodi 's hair . " I like you , Brodi . " Both smiled . " Tell me if you get cold , I think there 's some space left by one of the fires . I 'm glad it doesn 't snow much by the coast . Get some sleep , now . " Jonas walked off , re wrapping his blanket and covering his head from the cold night air . He added more wood to the fire , then settled down to get some more sleep . Before the rest of the camp was awake in the morning , Jonas buckled on his sword and put his cloak on . He lit a lantern , and then began to walk toward the cave . He tried not to think about the dream - which was really more of a nightmare - from the night before , but it slipped into his thoughts time and time again . As he entered the first cave , he thought of Brodi , and wished he had invited the boy to come along . It was a bit risky , but what was it Brodi had said ? " Even if I get killed glimpsing a gryphon , it 'd still be worth it . " It wasn 't exactly as comforting as the way Brodi said it . Jonas stopped and looked around him . He had entered a large cavern , with stalagmites and stalactites protruding from various places . The lantern didn 't give off much light , but as he went deeper in , someone darted behind what looked like a gryphon . A few shadowy figures started toward him . " Wait , " A voice said quietly . It was a girl 's voice , and she stepped out from behind a gryphon . She was slender , not quite tall , but not short either , and although her knee length black hair was free and unbound , she was still very refined . At first glance , her face looked perfect , unblemished . When Jonas looked a little closer , however , he could see a thin scar running from the tip of her chin across her mouth and up to just below her left eye , which , unlike her right , was green . Her right eye was brown . From looking at her , Jonas guessed she was no older than eighteen . Her name was Calaeda , and she , like Eunan and Brodi , was an orphan . The gryphons had found her when she was ten , and for the past eight years , she had lived with the gryphons . She had brought them joy , and in return , they took care of her , bringing her whatever she might need . Calaeda hated Ciaran and his men , they had killed her parents , made her run into hiding the caves where the gryphons had found her and they had given her the scar she now bore with hatred . While living with the gryphons she had almost forgotten about Ciaran 's men and the rebellion , but each night as she sang herself to sleep , her long fingers traced the scar . Jonas nodded . " Now that we know where to find you , it shouldn 't be too long . We 'll send a messenger when everything is ready . We didn 't think the gryphons were here . " Jonas nodded to Calaeda , then went out of the caves . " Good news ! The gryphons are in the caves . " A few men started forward , and Jonas held up his hand . " But let 's not disturb them they have said they will help us , and we 'll hold them to their word . Messengers will be sent here when it 's time . " The journey to Faerloe took three days in the tunnels , with Eunan jogging most of the way , and stopping to rest every now and then . He reached Faerloe late in the afternoon , and hurriedly made his way to the stables , knowing he had no time to lose . When Eunan reached them , he pushed the huge double doors open . The musty smell of hay and horses filled his nostrils . Rows of stalls were on his left and right , all filled with horses . Eunan walked down the isle , looking into each stall to look at each horse . He stopped in front of one that contained a horse that was a beautiful black . Strangely , his coat had an orange ish tint to it , and it almost looked dappled in the dark light . " That 's Oadied , " A voice from behind Eunan said . " Oadied means durable in the Ancient tongue . " Eunan stopped petting the horse . " I am Micah , and you would be ? " Something troubled Eunan . How had Matthias sent word so quickly ? It had only been a few days before that Eunan had agreed to go on this mission - type thing . " How did Matthias send word ? " Eunan asked . " Greetings , Eunan , " It said , its voice low and raspy , but calming at the same time . Almost immediately , Eunan knew this wolf was on his side . " I am Star Rider , " the wolf continued . " The majority of the wolves are rebels , however , there are some who have turned to Ciaran , mostly the black wolves , but there are traitors among us . " " I am glad of your support , " Eunan answered . " Our troops will grow quickly once I have a horse . That 's why I 'm here . " He turned to Micah . " The leaders of the rebels will meet tonight . You can speak there , and maybe they 'll donate to you . I myself will pay half the price . " " Behind the town square , there 's a run down barn that no one ever uses . The rebels meet there every week after dark . " That evening , Eunan made his way through the square , Star Rider at his side . Underneath his cloak , his hand rested on Paleidan , ready to pull it out at a moment 's notice . He shivered in the cold December wind as he looked up at the cloudy sky , from which sleet had just begun to fall . Pulling his hood up , Eunan began to run , and Star Rider was fast behind him . When they reached the door of the barn , Eunan pushed it open and stopped inside . Star Rider entered behind Eunan , already speaking to the number of men gathered there . The door slammed shut behind them . " This is Eunan , " Star Rider explained to the gathering , who had abruptly stopped their conversation when the odd pair entered . " He is sent by Matthias , and is to be trusted . Some might call him an apprentice , but he is here to recruit troops . War is upon us - we 've taken a while to see it coming , but Ciaran is preparing to fight Stargonia . " As Star Rider finished speaking , the door burst open , and a boy , not much younger than Eunan , spoke , half panting . " The nuns have sent out the pigeons . We must move with all haste . " The boy 's face was flushed and red , and his freckles were faint . His bright red hair was covered in a cap , pulled down almost to his starry black eyes . Eunan pushed back the hood of his cloak . " Matthias sent me to travel around Olandern and gather together an army to fight Ciaran . We already have two hundred or more men waiting in Jarel . We 're waiting for the right time . Now it 's almost time for the gryphons to take wing . But to defeat Ciaran , we will need more than two hundred . Who in Faerloe is willing to fight for freedom ? " The men in the room seemed to come alive , looking at each other and then getting to their feet . " We will " One of them stated . " And we will rally the rest of Faerloe . " " Eunan has one problem , though , " Star Rider began . " He has need of a horse . Micah will provide one , but Eunan will need to pay at least half of the price for a horse . " Eunan looked around the room hopefully . Would anyone offer to help ? Then Malcolm stood , and taking Eunan 's hand , placed fifty londqa in his hand . The other men in the room followed Malcolm 's example until Eunan had enough money for the horse . Finally , Jeddediah stood . " I 've got no money to give up , Eunan . But I do have this . " Jeddediah unsheathed a small dagger . Kneeling down , he offered it to Eunan . " I want to help you , to travel with you . I have a horse , I know how to fight . All I need is Malcolm 's permission . " Jed turned to look at Malcolm , his eyes pleading . Eunan looked from Jed to Malcolm . He placed a hand on Jed 's shoulder . " I will accept your help if Malcolm allows it . But please , stand . " Jed stood , and Malcolm looked at both boys . He was quiet for a minute , thinking . His eyes were filled with wisdom , and as he stroked his beard , they darted around the room . Jed thanked Malcolm , then turned to Eunan , who was speaking to the rebels . " Thank you for your support . I will see to it that you are not forgotten when this is over . " Eunan left the meeting and walked over towards the stables . Micah was about to close up for the night , but he let Eunan in . " I was hoping you 'd come before I left , " Micah said , opening the door to Oadied 's stall and grabbing his halter to lead him out . " I think Oadied is the best horse for you , my boy . Go ahead and try him out . " Black as night , Unalid ran through the darkness . I must get to Ciaran , the wolf thought . He must know this information . The ' apprentice ' is here . He 's going to the major cities . . . it 's time to capture him . Earlier that evening , other black wolves had helped relay the information to Unalid . He knew Ciaran would be pleased with their news . " Let him have his fun , " Ciaran said . " We will catch him when the time is proper , don 't worry . I 'll send a hawk to follow him . " He turned to look out of the window . Breacon looked up . He was standing in the courtyard of the castle , sparring with one of his scouts . Peter leaned over the edge of a balcony . He was grinning . " I 'll be right there , " Breacon told Peter , then , sheathing his sword , turned to his opponent . " Sorry . I 'll come find you when I 'm free again . " " We 've tried too many times , it would just exhaust our troops . We need to train before we do anything . Ciaran 's men are strong physically , but they would be easily swayed from following him . We need to plan ways to outsmart them , convince them to join our side , and conquer them physically as well . " Peter explained . " I don 't know . Our friends in Olandern say that he 's preparing for all - out war . We must , too . Though when the blows will begin to fall , I can 't say . The rebels are trying to gather an army of their own . " " Should we try to cut off the head ? " Breacon asked . " Attack Llyanta when the rebels do , and crush Ciaran , then work out to the cities he 's captured ? " " Aye . If they 've found the gryphons , they would be of great help . But we cannot count on what we do not know . The way we have it set up now is the fastest way possible . " " But our men still stop for the night . " Breacon reminded . " Have them riding all of the time , and it will cut the time it takes almost in half . Station men at different inns , and have some of them sleep during the day , so that when the messenger rides in , the man can immediately get a fresh horse and ride on . " Peter nodded . " It may be the only way to get news faster . We cannot trust the pigeons , if one were shot down by the wrong person - even if it were for food - news could get into Ciaran 's hands . The wolves here are no longer talking beasts like the ones in Olandern … what do you think , your majesty ? " Eunan did not sleep well that night . He was worried , and although he now had a horse , many things still weighed on his mind . For one , Ciaran had spies everywhere . If word got to Ciaran about what he was doing , and where he was , he was as good as dead . When a glimmer of sunlight appeared on the horizon , Eunan was at the stables , waiting for Micah . He had only to wait a few minutes before Micah arrived and unlocked the stable door . " No , not long at all , thank you . You came sooner than I expected , actually . " Eunan walked over to Oadied 's tall and opened the door . " I 've much to thank you for , Micah , and would love to stay in Faerloe longer , but I can 't spare the time . " Star Rider set off running , and the boys wheeled their horses around and followed the wolf . By the time they stopped for the night , they had reached the smaller hills and were about to enter a set of larger ones . Jed made a campfire while Eunan tethered the horses , and Star Rider rested , as he would be taking the first watch that night . After a small meal of bread and cheese , Eunan picked up a long stick from the edge of the campfire . " Shall we spar ? " He asked Jed . Eunan nodded and began circling Jed . Jed made the first move , attempting an attack . Eunan blocked , then attacked . Jed ducked out of the way . Suddenly there was a gleam in his eye and he began to move forward , forcing Eunan back . Eunan tried to make Jed retreat , but Jed only pushed harder . Finally , Eunan backed into a tree , and the surprise at the impact knocked the stick out of his hand . Jed 's stick was at Eunan 's throat immediately . Thinking quickly , Eunan used the curve of the tree to move out of the way , then somersaulted to avoid Jed 's stick , which was swooping down on him . Eunan saw his stick near the fire and reached out to grab it , then rolled over to block Jed 's sword . " That would be wonderful , Jed . Now , let 's get something to eat . My stomach tells me it 's well past dinner time . " At midnight , Star Rider woke Jed . " It 's time for your watch . " " We should be on the move shortly after dawn . I want to be over the mountains by tomorrow . Wake us at first light , we 'll eat quickly and leave . " Jed 's watch was uneventful , and they were ready to leave sooner than Star Rider had hoped . The young men mounted up and they started off at a fast walk . Sometime during the day , a hawk screeched overhead . Eunan , alarmed , looked to the sky . Star Rider broke into a run , dashing for the cover of a near by clump of trees . The hawk turned and flew away , leaving a foreboding feeling with the messengers . Eunan and Jed looked at Star Rider . " We could change course , but I don 't think that 's the best idea right now . Everyone will have some sort of price to pay before freedom is won . This is a risk we have to take . Let 's keep moving . " The following day they rode unhindered . The hawk was not sighted again , and the horses were well rested . Star Rider was pleased with their progress , and they laughed and joked as they rode . Eunan and Jed continued to spar around the campfire , and the swordplay of both young men improved . Eunan felt surer of himself each evening , and a few times he caught Jed off guard and was able to win a match . Matthias hopped out of the boat and pushed it onto shore . No one was anywhere in sight , but there were signs of life on the island . Something in the bushes moved , and Matthias put his hand on his sword . Then the bushes parted , and a young man 's face could be seen . Matthias relaxed , letting his hand fall down at his side . They stood still for a minute or two , neither moving , both watching the other intently . Matthias broke the silence . " Someone else could lead them , but that would end in chaos in the end , there would be no king . " Matthias moved closer . " They will follow and fight more willingly with you at their head . " " It 's early January . One of my men , Eunan , is back in Olandern gathering troops . By the time we 're ready , it 'll be mid to late February . " Nathan sighed . Must he really make this choice ? And why did id have to be such a short amount of time he had to make his decision ? He had known it would come someday , but inside he hadn 't wanted it ever to come , yet now it had . He nodded . " That gives me a while to think , then . I don 't want to lead an army . I 've had absolutely no experience fighting . My dirk is only in case I need to use it . I know nothing about battle strategies . Yes , I know who I am . I know the whole of Olandern knows . But I don 't know how wise it is for me to lead them . " Matthias scrutinized Nathan . " I know what you mean . The fact that you 're the crown prince is a heavy burden on your shoulders . I 'd help if I could . All I can do is teach you sword work like I did Eunan . We can plan a simple strategy together , but one that will work well . Whether you show up for the battle or not , there 's still a lot I can teach you for when it 's over . " Nathan 's hideaway was deep in the forest , hidden away high up in the trees . He had constructed it over the past year , adding more as time went on . Now , Matthias stood in the middle of the house , surveying what Nathan had built . The main room was built around the trunk of the tree , the boards resting on the branches below . Small walls rose up around the edges , and the trees provided a sufficient roof . A small bridge led to another tree , in which Nathan kept Nathan was blinking back tears . " Yeah . . . " He choked . " Thanks . It was only a little over a year ago . Fever took her , she got sick in a storm . She was everything to me . I was all torn up for a long time , still am some . But the animals have helped . They 've become my friends even the alda . " Nathan smiled through his tears . " Even though some of them get a bit annoying with their cunning tricks . " He motioned to his bed , fashioned out of leaves and wood , then covered with the boat 's sail . " I 'll make you a bed later . " Matthias began training Nathan the next day . There was a lot Nathan had to learn , and so little time until Matthias had to be back on the mainland . Not knowing if Nathan had a sword or not , Matthias had brought another from the supply Der kept in the back room of the inn , hidden in a secret wall compartment . He handed it to Nathan , who unsheathed it and , like Eunan , watched sunbeams reflecting in the blade . He held the sword in his hand , his arm unaccustomed to the weight . He looked at Matthias , who stood holding the sword with ease . Matthias instructed Nathan in much the same way as he had Eunan . They worked on sword work most of the day , and the rest of the day they spent doing various activities in the forest and down at the beach , talking , praying , and training . Matthias had Nathan run in the water to build up strength , and they spent a few hours swimming . Nathan was exhausted after the first day , but he knew that even if he did not lead the army , he would still be the king . Yet it seemed strange to him to do one but not the other . For the present , he thought mostly about his training , wanting to focus on that . On the fourth day , Kalnam appeared on the horizon . Kalnam was a city that Ciaran had destroyed around the same time that he ordered the demolition of Bywyn . Star Rider decided that they should go through Kalnam , just in case there were some rebels there , rebuilding after what Ciaran had done . Eunan had agreed , since they were avoiding the fort , one of the strongholds of Ciaran , Kalnam would only be a few miles out of their way . Dismounting , Eunan entered through the broken - down gate . Rubble filled the streets , and only a few houses remained whole . Jed stood close to Eunan , and they surveyed the ruins together . The messengers split up to search through the town , but it was deserted . The horses needed to rest , so they made camp outside of Kalnam . As Jed lay down to sleep , he thought he heard a hawk , but he was too tired to investigate , and by morning , he had forgotten about the incident . They entered Padrea late the next day . Their stop would be quick , Star Rider knew where to go , and other than delivering their message , they only needed to stock up on food . Star Rider knew where the house of one of the rebels was , and so he took Eunan and Jed there . Shortly after they knocked , the door opened . " You haven 't heard ? Ciaran 's men took him away the other day . Serves him right , those rebels have got to learn someday . " The door closed . They found the inn quickly , ordered some food , then sat down to listen to the conversations going on around them . It was hard to hear much , all around them people were arguing , singing , laughing , and cheering . Star Rider had the sharpest ears , and before long he heard a few rebels discussing the latest news , old news to Eunan , but it had just arrived in Padrea the day before - Matthias was gone to Madiela . Eunan and Jed seated themselves at the table , Star Rider at their feet . " Sorry to hear about Alexander . But we have good news . " Eunan lowered his voice . " It 's time for the gryphons to take wing . Matthias has sent me to gather troops . My friends are from Tharia - we were just there , recruiting troops . We don 't know when we 'll need them , just we know we need men . If you could get men together and be prepared to go at a moment 's notice , we 'll send a wolf or pigeon when we 're ready . We need as much help as we can get . " " I and my friends will help in every way we can . I am a blacksmith by trade , but I can make swords if need be . And we 'll spread the word . " The messengers walked to where they had tethered their horses and prepared to leave . As the boys swung up on their horses , a procession of soldiers walked by , the last of them leading a blindfolded man . Eunan watched in horror as they made him kneel on a platform in the town square . A man in a black robe stepped forward , drew a sword … As the shouts of the crowd grew louder , Eunan turned his face away . Star Rider glanced at Eunan , then at Jed . Jed seemed not able to turn his face away from the awful sight , his eyes were glued to the scene , yet they were filled with terror . " Let 's go , " Star Rider said . Both boys followed willingly . " Donal , is there any news on this Matthias fellow we 've been hearing about ? " Ciaran and Donal were taking a stroll in the gardens , wanting to get away from the inside of the castle , which was bustling with activity , soldiers were training and preparing for the oncoming battle , and today most were getting armor fitted . " Yes , actually , we figure he 's on Madiela by now . We 've set the watch on the coastline like you asked , he 'll be caught when he comes back . We 're expecting him any day now . " Donal picked a flower from a nearby bush as they walked passed a bunch of them , sniffing it and then dropping it behind him . " They left Padrea this morning , heading back this way . They will probably come between Llyanta and Jarel , and then around the desert to the lone cities to the East . How far are we going to let them get ? " A servant ran up to Ciaran and bowed . " Your highness , we have a few men ready for you to view . " Ciaran and Donal followed the servant as they went up to the tower . Below them , a hundred soldiers stood . The front lines were armed with spears and daggers , followed by the swordsmen , then the archers , with their longbows and crossbows , and finally the cavalry . At their head stood a flag bearer , holding a green flag bearing a werewolf , shown as half wolf and half man . All the men wore tunics over their chain mail , and all the tunics were embroidered with a black wolf 's head . Ciaran nodded as he surveyed them , from the tips of their pointed helmets to the toes of their leather boots . Eunan sighed . " I haven 't thought about that yet … but I don 't want to create a risk , and someone should stay behind just to keep everything in order . Jed , I 've been so thankful for your company , but I think it may be best if you return to Faerloe . " " I … I was thinking the same thing , Eunan . I don 't think I 'm quite ready to go so far yet . I don 't want you to go alone , though . " Jed answered . " That 's alright , Jed . You don 't have to worry about Eunan being alone , I 'll go with him to keep him company and help him if he needs it . Not that he 'll need much help , Eunan has much wisdom for his age . " It was the last happy time they had together . Garalay , the last city before the desert , was in an uproar when they reached it . Soldiers dressed in the garb of Ciaran 's men were attacking a group of rebels meeting in the town square . Star Rider stopped as they neared the square , and Jed and Eunan dismounted from their horses , holding their reigns . Eunan covered his sword with his cloak , but kept his hand on top of the hilt , just in case . Eunan turned to Star Rider , trying to suppress his anger . " We can 't just let this one go . Star Rider , look , over there … the soldiers are killing innocent people - children , women ! It 's not right ! " His voice was rising , and his hand gripped his sword hilt tighter . " We have to do something ! " " Eunan , don 't do something rash in your anger . I see , I know it 's not right . Do what you think is best right now , while still considering the effect of your actions . But remember , there won 't always be someone to help you . Let 's go . " Star Rider charged at a soldier , claws out and mouth wide open , ready to kill . Eunan swung up onto Oadied , and Jed followed his example . They drew their swords , and followed Star Rider . As they advanced , the rebels turned and saw them , and knew that these young men and the wolf were on their side . Filled with hope , they grabbed anything they could and used it to fight against Ciaran 's men . It was late at night when the fighting calmed down , and many from both sides lay wounded or dead . Star Rider saw Eunan standing near the edge of the square , apart from everyone else . He surveyed the scene in front of him , tears filling his eyes . Star Rider ran over to him , and Eunan knelt next to the wolf , burying his face in his fur . Star Rider put his paw on Eunan 's shoulder . " It would have been much worse if we had not done anything . " Star Rider said . " We gave them hope , a chance to win . This is the first of many battles , lad . Before Stargonia is won , there will be much more death . " Jed appeared behind them , and he sat next to Eunan , putting his arm around him . " I don 't like it either , Eunan . I can 't remember when Ciaran took over Faerloe … I was so little then . " They were silent for a while ; then Eunan remembered why they were there . " We have a job to do , " he got to his feet , and they found a cluster of rebels nearby , standing and praying together . They waited until the rebels were done , then approached them . Many looked confused for a minute , then understanding showed on the face of one of the men . " So soon . " He whispered , as if deep in thought . Snapping out of his thoughts , he looked up at Eunan . " Send the word , we 'll be ready . " " Thank you . We 'll need you to spread the word in the town … I guess most of the rebels here are what we see now . I pray we 'll have enough to fight Ciaran . " Eunan stuck his shovel in the ground and looked at his blistering hands . They had been digging graves all morning , and now the afternoon sun shone down on them . Using a rag to wipe the sweat off the back of his neck , he picked the shovel back up and moved down a little further , breaking the surface and shoveling out dirt . By nightfall , the town square was relatively clean , and Eunan , Jed , and Star Rider were inside the house of Daniel , the Garaloese rebel leader , sipping steaming cups of tea . As the rebels discussed various people who had died and who was left , Star Rider , Jed , and Eunan held their own conversation . Eunan was leaving the next morning with Star Rider , and Star Rider was giving Jed a few last - minute instructions . A fire burned in the fireplace , and once bloodstained garments hung there to dry . It was warmer in Garalay than it had been in Jarel , the desert was not even a day 's journey away . Eunan would have liked to go around the desert , but that would have taken days longer . He would take Oadied with him , hoping a horse would make his journey through the desert a little faster . After staying the night at the house of a rebel , Eunan and Star Rider woke early the next morning . Jed followed them to the edge of the town , leading Oadied while Eunan walked . At the gate , Eunan turned to Jed and hugged him . " Thank you so much , Jed . I 've been so glad to have you along with me . And you 've taught me so much about swordplay . No matter how this ends , you 're a wonderful friend , and I 'll come find you as soon as it 's all over . " " I 'll be there in the front lines , Eunan . I wouldn 't want to be anywhere else . I 'm sad you have to leave , but I know I 'm doing the right thing staying here . I 'll be able to help spread the word when we 're ready to fight . G ' bye , Eunan . " As the gate opened , Jed handed Eunan Oadied 's reigns , then waved as his friends rode off into the distance . Eunan liked his first impression of the desert . The red - orange dunes could be seen for miles in the distance , and as the sun glinted off them , he thought they were the most beautiful thing in the world . Oadied began to climb a dune , and Eunan knew that even these small dunes were hard for the horse , and was thankful that the desert of Olandern was a small one , unlike the one in Stargonia , which could take almost a month to cross , and the dunes were massive there . By the second day in the desert , Eunan was beginning to tire of all the sand . Later in the afternoon , the wind began to blow . It was a strong wind , and the sand rubbed against Eunan 's face as it swirled all around him , chaffing his skin . Star Rider shouted to Eunan to get off Oadied , and he did , grabbing the horse 's reins . Eunan breathed through a scarf , wondering why it had to be sand rather than snow . At least he would have been used to snow , they had plenty of that in Jarel every January . He stumbled along through the sand , every now and then stopping to fix something , rearrange his scarf , or wipe the sand out of Oadied 's eyes . Star Rider didn 't complain , even though sand was getting all over him , in his mouth , eyes , nose … They lost all track of time in the sand storm , and when it finally cleared up , it was afternoon . How many days had passed , neither he nor Star Rider had any idea . They stopped to rest , and shortly after they began to move on , they could see the edge of the desert . Eunan breathed more easily after this , he had begun to think they had gotten lost in the sand storm . As the sand faded into grass , Star Rider glimpsed something move behind a tree . It was not in the forest , so he did not think it was one of the Keltoi , a Celt - like tribe who lived in the forests . " Eunan . Over there . " Eunan glanced over to where Star Rider pointed with his paw . His moved his hand to rest on the hilt of his sword . Suddenly , a group of Ciaran 's men stepped out of the shadows . Eunan whipped his sword out of its sheath and let go of Oadied 's reigns , turning towards Ciaran 's men , who were quickly surrounding him . His mind was suddenly filled with choices . Should he run ? Fight ? Surrender ? His hand made its way up to his neck , where a thin chain held the ring around his neck . Eunan knew he needed to keep it safe . Hadn 't Matthias told him to guard it with his life ? Where could he hide it ? If captured they would search him . But there was nowhere he could put it . He turned to find Star Rider , but found the wolf gone . Eunan sighed . Sure , maybe Star Rider would tell the others that he had been captured , but right now Eunan would have liked it if the wolf would 've helped him fight . There was no more time for him to think . Ciaran 's men were upon him . There was no escape - it was fight or give up . Eunan whirled on the nearest soldier , trying to defend himself . And so the fight began . For a time , Eunan was able to hold them back , fending them off with his sword . A few times one of their swords cut him , and he knew he could not last much longer . A few more minutes passed , and then he sank down to his knees . Before everything went black , the last thing he saw was the blood stained sand , his bloody hand releasing his sword , and Ciaran 's men running towards him . He woke in a dark , damp room . Above him was a metal grating through which the only light in the room poured through . There was a ladder leading up to it . Eunan sat up . He had been lying on a hard bench , and a ratty blanket was underneath him . Eunan tried to stand , but he was drained of strength from the battle . He looked down at his sleeves , which were torn and blood soaked . He tried to figure out where all he had been wounded , but was not able to figure out exactly where . For the first time in a while , Eunan wished for a hot bath , or at least something to wash the dried blood off him . The grating opened , and a soldier came down the ladder , holding a length of leather in his hand . Eunan remembered the ring and quickly his fingers went up to his neck and he unclasped the chain , and stuck the ring underneath the bed . The soldier spoke roughly . " When you 're in Ciaran 's prison , you do . " The soldier kicked Eunan 's leg . Eunan winced . Still glaring , he stood as best as he could . The soldier steadied him , but then twisted Eunan 's arms behind him and quickly tied the leather strap onto his wrists , knotting it tightly . Eunan gritted his teeth . If Matthias could see me now . . . he thought . The soldier forced Eunan to go up the ladder , following right behind him . When Eunan reached the top , two other soldiers grabbed him and latching onto his arms , marched him into the Great Hall , where Ciaran was waiting . Ciaran tipped Eunan 's chin up to look him in the eye . " Come , now , we wouldn 't want that , would we ? Just answer my questions , and then I 'll decide what to do with you . " This is a question I can answer safely , Eunan thought . " Eunan . " " Eunan , hmmm ? Now , tell me , Eunan . You work for Matthias . But what all do you know about the rebellion ? " " Strong words , my boy . I 'd be careful next time . Anything else ? Do you , by any chance , know how the rebels will overthrow me ? " " Follow me , boy , and I 'll show you what my men look like . Then you tell me . " Two soldiers walked on either side of Eunan , and a third marched behind him as they followed Ciaran to a field where his troops were training . After watching them for a few minutes , Eunan turned to Ciaran . " Your soldiers only obey you as long as you 're around . Only a few are rooting for you , Ciaran . I wouldn 't trust them . We rebels know what we 're fighting for , and we want what we 're fighting for . We have hope , your army lives in fear of what you might do … " " Take him back to the dungeon . Feed him , though . I like this boy . I can see him as a great general in my army someday . " After two weeks of training , Nathan was able to fight Florentine as well as he could with the sword . Matthias was well pleased with his progress , and they began planning a strategy . Matthias pulled the worn map out of his pouch , spreading it out on the floor of Nathan 's tree house . " Here is where we 're hoping to fight . " He pointed to a plain outside of Llyanta , surrounded by a border , the forest and the desert , and an open space on the South . " We won 't have a very organized army , we have men from all over just coming in to fight . Before everything happens , we 'll send them a message through the pigeons , and each city will have a certain place to be . " Now , what I want you to do is place each army where they should go . We 're assuming that Eunan will get help from all the cities , though how many … I do not have any idea . " Nathan stared at the map . Matthias had brought in a few shells the day before , all different , and had chosen specific shells to go with certain cities . Nathan picked up the biggest shell , and placed it right outside the desert . " Garalay , " he stated . Placing the darkest shell on top of Llyanta , he turned to Matthias . " Would it work for the rebels from Llyanta to attack from the city ? " " The way it 's always done . Cavalry last , pikes first , then we have the infantry second . We 're going to try to get the archers up higher somewhere , maybe hiding in trees , but ones that aren 't in the forest , of course . There is a little bit of a rise along here , right before the desert . That should be the best place for the archers . " Nathan nodded . He opened his mouth and closed it again , sighing . " You 've helped me so much , Matthias . And I thank you . But I think it 's time for you to go back to the mainland . We need to get word out about the strategy , and people there are waiting for you . " Matthias scooped up the shells off the map and rolled it up . " I 'll leave now . I 'm praying for you , Nathan . I 'll be in Mytymnea if you need anything . " Nathan watched as Matthias pushed off and started back to Olandern . Although thankful for Matthias 's help , the trainer 's presence was a constant reminder of the decision he had to make . It would still weigh on his mind , but maybe not quite as heavily . Star Rider ran the last few feet out of the desert . It was his duty now to take the message to the lone cities . Three days later , he returned to the house of the rebel they had stayed at before in Garalay . Jed was there , discussing a few plans , and when Star Rider entered , he jumped to his feet . " Aye . It 's more than time , lad . Come with me , we 'll write up a note and send it with the pigeons . Do we have a plan ? A strategy ? " " We can come up with one . It shouldn 't be too hard . " " They 're there . " Jonas said . Breacon looked up from the map that lay on the table , and Peter turned from the window . " I do not know . Adan did not say when it would happen . He did not say how it would happen - it may not be with a battle , or it might . One day we may all wake up and be with the Creator . " The messenger shook his head . " But the rebels said to move immediately . We 're to go to the border and wait . They will continue to send messages . " " We must send out our men , and send them out now . " Then he , too , was silent . " And we must pray , before we are sent out , for the Creator 's mercy on us , and that His righteous judgment would fall on Ciaran . Come . " All of the men bowed their heads in petition to the Creator . Save us , Creator ! Breacon begged . Don 't let Ciaran get away with this evil , this treason against Your name . Hear the cries of Your people , living in oppression beneath one who serves Daron . Matthias 's return to Olandern was uneventful , and Matthias spent most of it doing some more planning . He still wondered how everything would come together , if the gryphons had been found … he jumped out of the boat and into the shallow water near the shore . Matthias pulled the boat ashore and stepped onto land . He took all of his things out and set off running . In the distance he could see Itheial , and went toward it , but as he got closer going straight , towards the desert . A hawk swooped above him , turning to dive down on its prey . Little did Matthias know it was a signal . A group of Ciaran 's men was waiting just outside of Rakya . When the hawk dove , they moved out into the open , closing in around Matthias . Before Matthias could run the other way , there was no way of escape , and his mind still whirling with unanswered questions , he drew his sword to fight . As he parried and attacked , a young soldier came up behind Matthias , hitting him on the head with the hilt of his sword . Matthias crumpled to the ground . " Aye . He came with me , but I was captured just across the desert . I didn 't see him anywhere once Ciaran 's men attacked . I think he got away . " Drawing back , he stuck his sword between two floorboards and leaned on it . " I make examples of them . You , young man , will die tomorrow morning . Donal , take note , a public hanging tomorrow morning , a warning to the rebels . I 'm done with Matthias , take him away . " " So we give them hope and then take it away . Donal , tomorrow we can claim Stargonia as our own . The rebels will be hopeless without their leaders . " He laughed . Matthias was forced down the ladder into the dungeon , where he took a seat on the bed . " I wonder if I 'm to die , too . " Eunan looked up to the opening in the trapdoor , staring at the glimmer of light that seemed their only hope . He stood and walked to right under it , the cold snow crunching under his feet . " I 've been here a little over a fortnight now , Matthias . I wonder why Ciaran hasn 't killed me yet . " He wished he could be a little boy again , and run into his mother 's arms . He was not ready to watch anyone die , much less a friend like Matthias . Eunan curled up in a ball on the floor , thinking and praying . Riona stared at the snow on the ground below . So much time had passed since she had last seen Eunan . Closing her eyes tightly , she prayed for him , for his safety and that the Lord would give him strength . She wondered how much longer it would be until everything ended and who would win . It seemed so likely that Ciaran would , he had the army and the power , or so it seemed . But so many people were against him ; the rebels had a chance of succeeding . And with the underground , things were almost favoring the rebels at least it seemed so for now . But things could change at any moment . Login to post comments not bad not bad . I have a couple questions though , what is Keltoi ? ( and did i spell that right ? ) And are Eunan and Riona gonna get together or something ? And your not really going to kill Matthias are you ? That would be really mean , like worse than killing Anya . These stories are incedible . Keep working on them . . . you have a great book going here . I love the way you have mutiple storylines going . I also really , really like the characters of Eunan and Matthias . Are you really going to kill Matthias ? Please say no ! ! !