Dawn   arrived in Lostar. Eloe had been first to awaken and the young Realman moved from room to room, waking the others. Talnar's door was the last he reached. He knocked upon it loudly, but no reply came. Slowly, he pushed it open and entered, finding the young warrior still fast asleep. He tried to awaken him again, but was unable. Then, the soft voice of Camma sounded from the doorway. "He is still suffering from the effects of the Lit poison. It will be some time before he fully recovers."

        Brandon was well on his way by that time. The morning sun was shining through the window of the small room as Eloe decided to allow the Talnar to rest a while longer. Camma assured him that she would send him down to the living room as soon as he woke. As the sound of the Realman's footsteps disappeared down the hallway, she placed her hand gently against his forehead. She found that there was still the hint of a fever. It would take a while before the Lit poison would be gone from his body. Even then, there might have been permanent damage done to him.

        Suddenly, Talnar's head rose from his pillow. A frightened look came to his face as he looked all about the room. He sat up and Camma placed her hand upon his shoulder. For a moment, the young warrior was unable to recognize his surroundings. His gaze then fell upon Camma who stood above him. Finally, his mind cleared and he remembered where he was. Immediately, he leapt from his bed as he noticed the morning sun shining through the window." Brandon!"

        "The poison still flows through you, Talnar. We were unable to awaken you. He left at sunrise."

        Talnar was very upset with himself. He felt guilty that the Lit had left on a dangerous mission and he had not been there to bid him a good journey. Camma informed him that breakfast would be awaiting him in the kitchen and then left the room. Immediately, he began to dress in his Lostarian battle clothing and moments later made his way downstairs.

        Reaching the eating chamber, he found a bowl of porridge placed on the table. Amar and his mother were cleaning the mess left by the others who had eaten their breakfast earlier. The young warrior moved to them and gave each woman an affectionate hug.

        "Brandon asked me to tell you that he will be back very soon." said Amar.

        "I'm still not able to cope with all of this, Talnar." added his mother.

        "It took me a while, too." answered the young Lostarian. “I've been to the other side and I still have a hard time believing in it. One thing that I do know is the fear that comes from facing Ramlord. Brandon is in great danger! Still, there is no other way to do this. His race must be freed from Dolnar's grip. I wish we weren’t forced to kill his fellow Lits. I can't forget Oglethor." He paused for a moment reflecting upon his encounter with Oglethor. Amar placed her hand upon his shoulder and smiled as he began to eat his breakfast. She had always looked up to her brother. She admired his bravery and strength as a Lostarian warrior and was proud of the reputation he held.

        "You will serve your friend best by preparing our army." she said softly. Talnar stared into the empty bowl before him. "Yes, they have no idea of the danger that they face. I wish Kris and Kari were here."

        Soon after he bade them farewell and left their home, moving quickly toward the village square. This was a large park in the centre of town where the army would gather for meetings. Many of the companions he had fought beside during the Salvian campaign were assembled there. He spent much of his time grasping forearms with his friends. Soon, he was led to a large tent that had been pitched in the centre of the park. Within he found Eloe, the Lostarian council and the leaders of the three remaining legions seated together around a large table.

        A map was spread out across it which they had been observing. Eloe rose from his seat. "Ahhh, Talnar. You're just in time. We've been discussing plans for our defense."

        Then, Councilman Gan said "I am troubled by much of what has transpired. It cannot be argued that our beliefs have been shattered. Yet many of our warriors are finding it difficult to believe what has been told to them."

        "They won't have a problem with that soon," said Talnar. "When the Lit army arrives, their doubts will disappear. However, they must be ready for what is about to take place. I've felt the power that Ramlord controls. Fighting the Salvians was nothing compared with this."

        "He speaks truthfully," added Eloe. "Dolnar controls the power of the Word. Your army is nothing next to that."

        Suddenly, Josh (the leader of Lostar's third legion) pounded his fist against the table. "Our army is far from 'nothing'! We have been at war for many years. We can handle ourselves!"

        "I'm sure you could, under normal circumstances," replied the Realman, "but..." He paused for a moment, looking into the faces of those who sat around the table. "Yes, the Light will be with us. Let us unite...within and without."

        Gam raised his hand and silence followed. "I must admit that I have trouble accepting all that I have heard, but it is obvious that we have been wrong about much. I am prepared to follow the counseling of the one known as Eloe. We mustn't allow our pride to endanger the lives of our people." The others of the Council acknowledged their agreement.

        Josh bowed to them and then turned to Talnar. "Then I await my orders. Our army must act as one...as it has done in the past."

        Talnar nodded. "We must divide our army into four units. One must be sent to each corner of the plain. When the enemy is in the middle of our forces, a few men posing as representatives of Lostar will greet them and ensure them that all is well. Two blasts from an attack horn will follow and our army will attack from all sides. We won't have much time. If we have not defeated the Lit army before Ramlord realizes what we have done, then all will be lost."

        "Not a moment must pass between the trumpet blast and the army's attack." cautioned Eloe.

        "That is true," replied Talnar. "You mustn't underestimate Ramlord's power. We won't have much time. As long as he hasn't been alerted, we will have a chance. But, if we haven't defeated his army, the sound of his voice can make even the bravest of men fall to his knees like a helpless child. I have faced this man. He filled me with unspeakable fear and froze our entire army."

        "Can one man truly be so powerful?" asked a member of the Council.

        "He controls the Word. A Wordlord is the most powerful being on this planet!" answered Eloe. "This battle will be the fiercest one you have ever fought!"

        "Eloe and I will ride out to greet the Lit army." declared Talnar. "My trumpet shall announce the call to battle!" Eloe looked to him for a moment and nodded his agreement.
^^^

        Their discussions continued throughout the day. Josh and the others who had been appointed as leaders of the four units had been sent to organize their men and prepare them for battle. By early evening, all was ready.
^^^ ^^^

        A warm breeze gently blew from the west as a tired Lit marched steadily onward in that direction. He knew where he would find Ramlord and his brother Lits, for he had been positioned in the area that Ramlord had chosen as their army's hiding place. A battle was being raged within his heart as he moved onward. He knew that he would be sending many of his brothers to their death, but he also knew that if Dolnar wasn't defeated, then his people would never know freedom. The freedom that he now experienced since the effects of the Tarack had vanished from his mind.

        The noonday sun shone brightly above him. The grass was still damp from Morning Mist and from the storm that had recently passed through the area. The warm breeze felt good as it blew against his face. He thought about his barren home and about how much more beautiful this place was than Blantum. Suddenly, he heard a moan and a muffled cry of pain, coming from a small gathering of trees to his left. Quickly, his sword slid from its sheath and he held it before him. Dismounting, he slowly approached the trees. As he drew closer, the moaning grew louder. Someone was in deep pain. His sword was returned to its sheath and he increased his pace. Soon, he reached the trees and without hesitation, he ran into their midst.

        Moments later, his search ended. An injured warrior was laying on the grass next to a tall tree. His Tulnit (which Brandon noticed was different than the ones that were worn in Lostar) was stained with blood. The Lit knelt beside the moaning solider. The warrior appeared to be very weak, but still made a great effort to move away from the Lit as he stood beside him. Brandon placed his hand on the soldier's shoulders.

        "Don't be afraid...I won't harm you." The look on the face of the warrior revealed that he was not prepared to trust the Lit standing beside him. "Who has done this to you?" His voice sounded compassionate as he tried to comfort the wounded warrior. He answered almost in a whisper.

        "One from your race. I was on my way to Lostar with a message from Tellis when I encountered a number of soldiers...like you! They chased me until one of their arrows found my shoulder." His voice became more faint until Brandon found it necessary to put his ear next to his mouth. "I must get the message to Lostar. Our village is under attack. Dela must be protected." His whisper then became silence as the soldier's life ended. Brandon covered him with leaves and small branches. Slowly, the Lit rose to his feet and rushed to his horse. Moments later, he was once again riding to the west.

        White, fleecy clouds moved gently across the sky as his horse galloped through the tall grass. Trees became much more frequent and, occasionally, he passed through small forests. He slowed his pace so that he wouldn't appear to be overanxious when he met with his army. His mind still fought an endless battle. He wished there was another way he could defeat Ramlord without his brothers being killed. He knew there was none!

        The fear of meeting with Ramlord filled his heart and he repeatedly rehearsed the story that he was about to offer him. He knew that if he aroused even the slightest amount of suspicion, the Wordlord would reach into his mind and all would be lost. The fate of many people rested upon his shoulders. He searched in every direction as he neared the area that he believed the Lit host would be hiding. He felt his hand begin to tremble and a cold sweat appeared above his brow. Suddenly, he brought his horse to a halt. His head shifted all about and his sword slid silently from its resting place.

        "Ain'ts no need for that thing...S'only us!” Immediately he turned, discovering about twelve Lit guards standing behind him.

        "What kept ya? Is you crazy? No one keeps the Boss waitin'!"

        "...I..."

        "And where's the one that wents with ya?"

        Brandon paused for a moment, looking to the Lits who stood before him. "He's waitin' backs at the village. Everything's ok sos we figured thats the Boss didn't needs him here. He's gettin' things ready there..."

        "It's not safe to disobeys the Boss. He said both of yous should meet here. Well...maybe the news that everythin's ok will calm him downs. You better tells him now!"

        "Where is he?"

        "Where does ya thinks? In his tent over there!" The Lit guard pointed to the west and Brandon immediately left in that direction. Passing a large gathering of trees, he found a tall black tent. Four guards were positioned outside of it, each with sword in hand. Slowly, he made his way toward them. The guards stared at him as he approached. He dismounted upon arriving and walked into their midst.

        "What does you wants?!"

        "I is here to tells the Boss that everythin's ok ats the village..."

        "He don'ts wanna be bothered right now!" Brandon was greatly relieved to hear this news. Now he could disappear and the Lit guard would pass on the message when Ramlord left his tent. He bowed and turned toward his horse. Suddenly, he felt the skin on the back of his neck tighten. A terrible feeling entered him and fear numbed his mind. A deep voice sounded from behind him and he almost fell to his knees.

        "What is going on here? Your foul voice has disturbed me!"

        The Lit guard that had been spoken to fell on his knees and covered his head with his hands. "Forgives me, master ... That one over there came to say that everythin's ok at the village." he whimpered.

        "Why was I not informed?!"

        "You told us nots to disturbs you, master..."

        "You fool! You idiot! You and your race sicken me!" Suddenly, Ramlord's voice began to change. A deeper evil seemed to sound from it and it became even more frightening. "How I long for the moment when I am free!! Free from my prison and free from the disgust I feel when I must deal with your kind!"

        The Lit couldn't answer, but remained on his knees hiding his head. Brandon felt the terror within him growing as Ramlord/Dolnar approached him. Slowly, the frightened Lit turned to face him. He wanted to cry out...to flee into the trees around him, but his legs wouldn't move him. His horse became restless. Ramlord moved closer and Brandon looked into his face.

        He found Ramlord’s facade to be strangely clear, almost transparent. His eyes seemed to be two long tunnels into which his thoughts were being drawn. He had no control over his mind. The eyes/tunnels led him to a large room. It was very dark inside save for two eyes that shone like diamonds. He couldn't break his stare from them as the moved closer. To his horror, he realized that his thoughts were being exposed as if they were being pulled from him. Soon, he would reveal what Talnar and the others had prepared for him.

        The dark room became lighter as the eyes moved closer. Very soon, the eyes would reach him and all would be lost! Suddenly, the contact was broken as a loud scream sounded.

        "No!!! I cannot enter the mind of another one of these creatures!!! It sickens me to even think of them as servants! Do not bring its filth before me!!!"

        Once again, the sound of the voice changed. "Then everything is as it should be in Lostar? Excellent! We will leave for it immediately! Have Brown meet with us outside of the village." He then moved back to the guards who had finally found the strength to rise to their feet. "Give the command for the others to prepare to attack."

        A sigh of relief sounded from Brandon as he mounted his horse and headed back toward Lostar. He didn't stop as he passed the Lits who moved about the camp. His heart cried out as he thought of the danger that would greet them. He wanted to stop and tell them all to run back to their side of the mountain and forget the war, but he knew that they wouldn't listen any more than he would have when he was under Tarack's control.

        His pace never slowed for a moment. His horse panted heavily as he moved onward toward Lostar. He couldn't forget the brothers he had left behind with Ramlord. He cursed himself as he moved forward and wished he could think of a different way for them to defeat him. If the other Lits could be without the Tarack as he had, they could break free of the Wordlord's hold on them.

        He continued for the entire afternoon. As the sun was setting behind him, he spotted dim lights off in the distance. It was Lostar! His heart pounded and his horse breathed heavily as he headed toward it. Finally, exhausted, he reached the village gates.

        "Halt and identify yourself!" called out a guard from behind the gate. Brandon did so the large door flew open. A guard rushed out to greet him. "Forgive me. They await you in Talnar's home."

        Brandon thanked him and motioned his horse to take him that way. The echo of his horses' hooves sounded through the dark streets as he traveled along the clay pathway. A young warrior was standing before the door. As he recognized the Lit, he allowed him to pass, announcing his arrival to those inside. Talnar motioned him to a seat placed beside the amber flames that danced in the fireplace. Camma and the Council were seated within the room and all eyes were upon him as he made his way toward its warmth.

        "I was worried about you." said Talnar. "I was just about to try to find you. We feared that something might have gone wrong."

        Brandon stared into the fire for a moment. "Ramlord doesn't suspect. His army will be here at dawn. They will expect to see Ned Brown." There was sadness in his voice as he spoke. Camma placed her hand upon his massive shoulder trying to comfort him.

        "Then we have a chance." said Gam. “Morning-Mist may still be present when they arrive.”

        "Ramlord is very powerful." added the Lit. "We don't have much time."

        "I think it would be better for you to remain in Lostar while we face the Lit host." said Talnar. Brandon remained silent for a moment and then looked to the young Lostarian. His expression told him that the Lit understood.

        After another moment of silence, Brandon said, "There is something else. I met with a soldier who said he was from a place called Dela. He was on his way here to give you a message that their home was under attack and needed your help."

        "Dela?!" All those within the room shared Talnar's feelings for the neighboring village. "Is there no end to this?! Even Dela is not safe. Fire burned in his eyes as he turned to the others. "Our army must be prepared. Dolnar must be stopped!"
^^^ ^^^

        With dawn approaching, Talnar rode his horse to the west, heading toward Lostar's first legion. The Morning Mist was beginning to roll in and it became difficult to see more than a few yards ahead. After a short ride, he reached a small group of soldiers sitting around a fire. Eloe rose from their midst and moved to his side.

        "The legions are in place..." The two grasped forearms and smiled to one another. "Your people are brave, indeed." Talnar looked to the others who stood around the fire. He felt deep regret that many of them were about to see their final day. "It is said in our lore," continued the Realman, "that peace once reigned over our world. We believe that this same peace will return when Dolnar is defeated. It is good that your side has a chance to be part of his defeat."

        Suddenly, their discussion was interrupted as a horse-bound warrior approached them. He dismounted and in an excited voice said, "The enemy has been sighted!! Due west about an hour's ride from here!"

        "Send out word immediately!" The guard quickly disappeared into the thick mist.
^

        All was prepared as Eloe and Talnar stood with the members of the Council. They discussed what was about to happen and wished each other well. Moments later, they were on their way to meet with the Lits. The sun had risen higher, but it was still difficult to see much because of the heavy fog. Talnar was concerned that the warm sun might burn away the mist before they were ready. He wondered how far Ramlord waited behind the Lit army. As long as he didn't suspect anything, he probably wouldn't be too anxious to reach Lostar until most of the fighting was over. A curious feeling suddenly entered his mind. The whole picture began to come into focus within his thoughts...Kristopher, Realm, Dolnar. It was becoming clearer just what he was now involved in.

        He began to feel as if he wasn't really in control of what he was doing. As if he was a pawn in a struggle far larger than one between Dolnar and the Elders. It was as if somewhere else two great forces were at war and they were just one small part of it. As these thoughts filled his mind, Eloe turned to him with an expression of surprise on his face.

        "Your race amazes me!! It takes many years before the Realman warriors receives 'the vision'. I must find out more about..." His words were cut short as they heard horses approaching from somewhere beyond the heavy fog. Immediately they halted their steeds and called out. Suddenly, the silhouette of seven horse-bound Lits appeared. Moments later, they were surrounded.

        "Where's Ned Brown?!"

        "He is very ill. He sent us to meet with you."

        "I don'ts likes it. The Boss don'ts goes for this kinda thing. The rest of the army is just behinds us. You waits here while we gets them!"

        The warriors nodded their understanding and watched the creatures disappear into the mist. Talnar became very anxious as he contemplated what was about to happen. Each second dragged on forever as they waited in silence. Eloe's thoughts turned to his home. His love for it motivated him to oppose those like Dolnar who wished to destroy it. Far off in the distance, the sound of the approaching enemy cut through the mist like a sharpened knife. Both of the warriors reached down, placing a hand upon their swords for reassurance. The thunderous sound of moving horses slowly grew.

        Moments later, two of the Lits reappeared." We is ready. The rest is comin'"

        "How soon will they be here?" asked Eloe.

        "Just a few moments!"

        "And your leader?"

        "He won'ts be here for a while. He's talkin' with him!"

        The fear in the Lit's voice told them that 'him' meant Dolnar. Slowly, Talnar's right hand reached into his Tulnit and he grasped his horn. His hand trembled as he fingered its smooth edges. He wanted to remove it at that moment, but he waited. He knew that every moment he delayed would give his army more of a chance to surround the Lit force. He also knew that each moment he hesitated reduced his chances of escaping from them.

        No one spoke as they moved along and the Lit captain began to grow suspicious. Talnar noticed that he was staring at him with a strange look in his eyes. Finally, he could wait no longer. The horn came quickly from its hiding place and was pressed against his lips. Its sound echoed through the mist and the two warriors pulled their swords from their sheaths.

        "You shall not have my home, you scum! You will find nothing but death waiting for you here!" Suddenly, the crashing of steel against steel sounded through the mist. Curses came from both sides as the four men engaged in battle. The two Lits were stunned momentarily by the fury of their opponents' attacks and they moved back slightly.

        The Lit host was approaching quickly and Talnar feared he might not be able to defeat his opponent before they arrived. His strength seemed to grow as he continued to strike his enemy repeatedly. The Lits were taken aback by the fury of the warriors' attacks. Neither of the Lits had ever actually engaged in battle with Lostarian or Realman soldiers before, but they had been told that they were weak and cowardly men and no match for a Lit.

        Both of them realized too late that this was not the case with these two. Moments later, the hideous creatures uttered their last curses as they fell to the grass below, each with a sword stuck in his chest. Talnar and Eloe fought to catch their breath as the Lit army moved through Morning Mist toward them. Instantly, they turned and headed eastward with the enemy not far behind.

        The thunderous roar of the approaching host followed them closely. Suddenly, another sound appeared through the fog. It was the Lostarian army! Once again, Talnar's horn blasted. It was a signal designed to alert his army to his position. That was indeed a signal that they needed, however, it also acted a as a guide for the Lits to find him. The mist seemed to be slowly rising as the warm sun rose higher. Yet, it was still dense enough to hide them.

        The chase continued. Sweat poured from their faces as their powerful horses charged onward. The fog continued to lift higher as each moment passed. Finally, far ahead, the leading edge of the Lostarian forces could be seen. His army was moving toward him quickly. A brief sigh of relief sounded from him. Brief indeed.

        He turned to look behind only to discover that the Lits were closer to the fleeing warriors. Eloe had already witnessed their bad fortune as the two beckoned their horses to move faster. A Lostarian horn blasted through the failing mist, announcing to the fleeing warriors that they had been spotted. Both men unsheathed their swords, seeing that the two armies were about to meet. The Lits, although still out of arrow's range, were closing on them quickly. Another Lostarian horn sent its signal through the misty air and the Lostarian army came to a halt. Immediately, the archers moved to the front of the ranks setting their shields before them.

        The trumpet had heralded a message to the other three leagues of the Lostarian army where the Lits would be stopped. As commanded earlier, the leaders of the three groups led their men directly toward the source of the signal. Neither Talnar nor Eloe allowed their horses to slow their pace. Neither looked back as they headed toward the archers. Although the Lit army was not far behind, they still were too far away to see the row of bow-men who waited for their arrival. In just a few minutes, the Lits would realize they had been lured into a deadly trap. The fog lifted slightly higher as the morning sun burned hotter. It soon became obvious that their misty shield would be all but completely faded by the time the battle would begin.

        Soon, the faces of the awaiting Lostarians could be seen. Many who had fought by his side during the Salvian campaign were at the fore of the motionless army. Some signaled to their captain that they wished to rush out to greet their friend, but they were quickly commanded to stand fast. Their superiors knew that the defense must stay unbroken. The race continued!

        Talnar glanced back for a moment. He could see outline of several Lits (many of whom were still confused by Lostarian's retreat). The creatures, however, welcomed the chase, for they had been camped far from the village for much too long and were hungry for a kill. This was another of the many side effects of the liquid Tarack. Heavy sweat poured from the fleeing warriors as they made their way toward the relative safety of their army. The grip on their leather reigns tightened. As they drew closer, the front row of Lits behind them finally noticed the row of Lostarian archers beyond the mist.

        They immediately began to panic and tried to bring their horses to a halt, but the ones still unaware of what was ahead rode into them, knocking many of them from their steeds. Two blasts from a Lostarian trumpet told the other groups that the attack was to begin. A wave of arrows flew over Talnar's head and scores of unprotected Lits fell from their horses.

        Within moments the Lit host, now completely surrounded, began to panic. The Lostarian army was much smaller that the Lit host, but the element of surprise gave them a momentary advantage. One that they knew would disappear if the Lits could unite against them. Talnar and Eloe were now safely behind the archers and Talnar gave the command for the arrows to cease. Too many Lostarians were within range of flying arrows. It was time for the swordsmen to join the battle.

        The fog lifted higher as the sound of battle grew louder. Many from both armies lay dead on the wet grass, but Talnar never stopped. He knew that the only hope his people possessed rested on their unceasing assault upon the Lit army. He also knew that Ramlord would soon be alerted to the way he had been deceived. "If only Kris were here...and...Kari!"

        Many Lits died by his sword, but the host seemed endless! Eloe's sword hadn't stopped since the battle had begun. He was a Realman and thus was much stronger than the Lostarians who battled next to him. Yet, he was amazed at how the young warriors fought. Soon, the fog was all but gone. Talnar could now see the awesome size of the Lit enemy. His heart fell as he gazed across their mass.

        Steel smashing steel echoed across the battlefield and curses were yelled from both sides. The hideous sound of men being fatally wounded dug sharply into Talnar's heart as many of his friends felt the agony of Lit poison. Gritting his teeth, he continued to swing his sword, separating many of the Lits' bodies from their ugly heads.
^

        After what seemed an endless battle, both armies were greatly reduced. Hundreds from both sides were dead or dying and still the battle raged. Suddenly, horror filled his heart as he looked back toward Lostar to find a group of Lits heading that way. He wondered if any others had gone that route already. His village had been left with just a small guard party to protect her! Immediately, he left the battle in pursuit. He urged his horse to move him faster, but the Lits were far ahead and their horses were rested.

        His horse panted heavily as he reached the front gates that were wide open and unguarded. Smoke rose from some of the houses and the faint scream of a horrified woman reached his ears. Passing through the gates, he saw two dead guards and four dead Lits lying just inside. Without hesitation, he led his horse down the road that led to his mother's home. His heart pounded as he moved along the streets. Soon, he neared the last corner he would pass before reaching his home.

        Many women and children rushed along the roadway, screaming as he moved around the corner. Finally, he could see the small house. It wasn't burning! He thanked the Light. Quickly, he motioned his horse toward the clay pathway and moments later was approaching the front door. He entered the living room to find that it was demolished! "No!" he screamed as he looked about. Suddenly, his mother's voice sounded from the hallway.

        "Talnar? Is that you?" Running into the hall, he saw the panel that led to the attic slowly pull away and the faces of his mother and Amar appeared.

        "Where is Camma?" asked the warrior. His mother was unable to speak. Amar wiped the tears from her eyes and said, "She wasn't with us when they arrived. After they left, we searched for her, but we couldn't find her. I fear that they may have her!" Her voice cracked as she finished her tale and she began to weep. A small ladder then slid down from the attic and the two weeping women moved down to the hall.

        “I've got to find her..." Talnar whispered as he held them both. "The Lits won't return here....Stay inside until I return..."

        His mother wanted to beg her son to stay and protect them, but she remained silent. Within, she cursed her fear. She knew that Camma was in greater danger than she was, but she was terrified of Lits. In the end, she surrendered her fear and hugged her son. Again, Talnar embraced them and, moments later, left to search for Camma. As he left the house, he found Eloe and Brandon standing next to his horse. A great feeling of relief came to his heart as he reached them and they all grasped forearms. This was a custom that was new to the Lit, but he found that he liked it.

        "Camma isn't here...I must find her..."

        "Then, we shall search together!" said a smiling Eloe. Talnar asked Brandon to stay with his mother and sister until he returned. He didn't believe that the house did in fact need protection, but he felt it better that the Lit didn't witness the battle that would take place if he found Camma with any of his brothers. Moments later, Talnar and Eloe were rushing through the streets of Lostar. Talnar's gaze shifted from side to side as they searched for her. Deep inside, he didn't really believe that he would find her alive.

        Eloe had informed him that he had witnessed him leaving the battle and felt that he would need help within the city walls. He would prove to be right soon enough! As they passed a large field of deep grass, the Realman's keen eyesight spotted something on the other side. He saw what Talnar was unable to see -two Lits dragging a young woman. Camma or not, they had to help her. Immediately, they raced toward them. Reaching halfway across the field, Eloe saw the face of the woman...It was Camma.

        He alerted Talnar to his find and the young Lostarian struck his horse's side commanding it to move faster. It was, however, already moving as fast as it was able. "Release her, you filth!!!" he screamed. Hearing his scream, the Lits realized that they were being approached. They had been heading toward their horses which had been tied to a tree on the other side of the field. One of them released Camma and started to run toward the steeds. The other hesitated for a moment, looking back at the approaching riders.

        He seemed to have a smug look on his face as he stared at Talnar, as if he could sense that the woman he held meant a great deal to him. She fought to escape from his grip as he continued to watch them approach. Talnar instructed Eloe to go after the Lit who now neared his awaiting horse. He himself moved closer to the other.

        He slowed his horse as he drew closer. Reaching to within a few meters, he stopped in horror as the Lit placed a knife against Camma's back. A sardonic grin appeared. Suddenly, a scream sounded from the Lostarian's lips. The Lit's sword became red as it dripped with Camma's blood. She fell to the grass without uttering a sound.

        Talnar's scream reached Eloe and he turned to witness the Lit's game. The Lit watched Talnar approach, still not moving. Talnar was in shock as he reached them and looked to Camma who lay still in the grass. The Lit's grin became a deep laugh as he read the pain in the warrior's eyes. Suddenly, the massive creature raised his sword before himself and drove it into his own chest. He never made a sound as he fell to the grass. It was as if it knew that it had been beaten and didn't want Talnar to have the pleasure of killing him.

        Talnar was still in shock as he watched the Lit die. He couldn't believe what he had witnessed. "This must be another effect of the Tarack..." he thought. Despite his anger and pain, he still felt pity for the poor creature. He slowly dismounted and leaned over Camma. Tears filled his eyes as he looked at her soft face. He touched her cheek, feeling the warmth and then looked back to Eloe who held the remaining Lit against a tree. He almost fell on his back as Camma opened her eyes!

        She looked up to him and a gentle smile came to her lips. A peculiar easiness adorned her face. She spoke to him in a delicate voice. "The pain has left me...Can you hear that beautiful sound?" He motioned to her that he couldn't. "Then it is as I was told...The world of the hereafter is full of music!"

        More tears fell from his cheeks. "Please don't be sad." she continued. "I have never before felt such peace." Camma described a large stairway which appeared above her. Talnar saw nothing, but blue skies. She described how it led beyond sight into a great white light. Many people she had known before were on the steps, waving to her...beckoning her to join them.

        Talnar's tears continued to fall. "I cannot tell you how beautiful it is. I wish you could see it. Perhaps I will be waiting on the steps for you when your time comes..." The only other sound that came from her lips was a gentle sigh. The look of contentment never left her lovely face as he held her limp body. He heard a horse's cry sound from behind him and he quickly turned to discover two Lostarian guards approaching him. As they arrived at his side, he gently lifted Camma's dead body in his arms and turned to them. "Please take her to the home of my mother...I shall return there as soon as I can."

        The young guards saw the look of pain in Talnar's eyes as he spoke. The tallest of the two took her from him and placed her upon his horse. He opened his mouth to speak, but Talnar raised his hand. No words would comfort him now. The guard placed his hand on his shoulder and motioned to the other that they were to leave. "And then," he continued, "round up the rest of the guards. There are other Lits invading our homes!"

        Talnar watched them disappear into the city. He felt a part of himself leave with them and he tried to dry his eyes. He then turned back to Eloe was approaching him. The Realman held his sword against the Lit's back and was leading him toward the sorrowful Lostarian. Talnar wanted to run his sword through the creature's chest, but he fought the desire remembering Brandon, Deyarus and Oglethor. Eloe felt deep regret as he looked to him.

        After moments of silence, he was finally able to speak. "We'll put him in the prison and then return to the battlefield! I have a score to settle with Ramlord!"
^

        They helped to round together the remaining Lostarian guards after they placed the Lit in the cell. He instructed them to do the same with any others they captured and then he and Eloe made their way back toward the battle. The fog had long since lifted. Talnar looked about at all of the dead Lostarian warriors and felt guilty for leaving the battlefield when he had. They both held their swords before them as they reached the battle zone.

        The element of surprise had worked for a while, but now the Lits were fighting as a unit. Suddenly, a cold chill drifted through the area. Talnar felt the hair on the back of his neck rise as a dark horse- bound figure approached the battlefield. Rage filled the Lostarian's mind as he realized it was Ramlord!

        "You slime! I will have my revenge!" His curses were not heard by Ramlord who was too far away. Immediately, he headed for the man that he blamed for Camma's death. Indeed, for the death of many of his friends and neighbors! His sword swung above his head and no one dared to stand in the way as he headed westward. Ramlord noticed the approaching figure and a laugh sounded from him so loud that it rose above the sound of the battle. All who heard it, Lit and Lostarian alike, became frozen with fear. All save Talnar whose heart was so full of hatred that it couldn't be reached by the Wordlord's power. This surprised him. Moments later, Talnar halted his horse just a few feet from him.

        "I owe you...Pig! You are responsible!!! Now it is time to pay!!!!"

        "Still your tongue you puny insect or I shall make your death even more painful!"

        "I won't be the one who'll fall!!!" As Talnar screamed these words, he could feel Dolnar's mind trying to reach into his own. The Wordlord was able to reach some of his thoughts, but they were filled with such hatred that he found it very difficult.

        "I know you!!! Yes, I had you with me, but you are not the Tull!!!"

        "And you won't find him or anyone else when I'm finished with you!!!"

        Around them, the battlefield became silent as both armies were unable to move. Eloe was awed by Talnar as he stood before Ramlord. From within his prison, Dolnar continued to fight Talnar's thoughts, but he found it difficult to see all, but a few small visions. Finally, a deafening crash echoed across the grassland as their swords met. The impact almost knocked Talnar off of his horse. He grasped his sword with both hands and continued to strike at his opponent. The crashing of their swords sounded like thunderclaps and the onlookers had to shield their ears. Eloe cursed his inability to help his friend as he fought the power that kept him frozen.

        The battle raged on. If the truth were to be known, many of the Lits were secretly cheering for Talnar, although they fought these thoughts, certain that the Boss could hear them. Finally, Ramlord's sword was knocked from his hand. Talnar looked to it as it lie on the ground. He stopped for a moment and wondered why Dorma hadn't been sent to face Ramlord. Surely, if the young Lostarian was able to do this, then the Realman would have no trouble!

        As he thought of Dorma, his thoughts then drifted to Kristopher. Suddenly, Ramlord's expression changed as an evil smile came to his lips. Talnar's sword swung above his head and the spectators gasped as it came down upon Ramlord's head. To his (and everyone else's) disbelief, it passed through it as easily as it passed through the air. Ramlord began to laugh.

        "You can't kill that which isn't alive...Mortal! I only allowed you to think you could. But, now I know what is in your mind. The Tull is not on this side at all. He must be in Realm! For this knowledge I must thank you! The battle here is of no use to me now!" Suddenly, his voice became much deeper.

        "Waste no more time with these insects! Return to the other side. I must be freed from this place!!!"

        Ramlord waved his hand and the Lits slowly began to move about. They were still filled with terror as they began to follow their master northward. Talnar wanted to follow them. He couldn't believe that he had allowed himself to be tricked. He had only let down his guard for a moment, but that was enough for Dolnar to learn that Kristopher was still on the other side of the mountain. He dropped his head in shame. Eloe moved slowly to his side. He had been able to free himself from Ramlord's hold sooner than the Lostarians had, being a Realman. He was amazed that Ramlord would turn away from them so quickly. It was obvious that the Lostarians could have easily been defeated, yet he led his army away without a second thought.

        As some of the older warriors began to free themselves, a deep voice echoed across the grasslands.

        "I shall return when my master allows it! Next time, I won't leave until everyone of you has been killed!"

        Those who had just freed themselves became frozen once again. Talnar alone seemed unaffected by Ramlord's voice. He sat upon his horse with a solemn look upon his face. He thought about how he had given away the fact that Kristopher hadn't come to this side. How long would it take Dolnar to find out that he wasn't in Realm and then realize what the true plan was? Most of the Realman army had left to fight the Lits! Talnar looked about at what remained of the Lostarian force. His home was now safe. He then looked back to Eloe who was beginning to move again.

        "You've got to take two legions of my army to Realm! The city will need as much help as it can get..."

        "Will you not be coming with us?"

        "No. I have to continue to Eray. But, first I must prepare the remainder our third legion for a journey to Dela."
^

        Talnar stood alone. He thought of Camma and wished that she had listened to him when he asked her not to journey to Lostar with him. The pain he felt was almost unbearable as he realized that he wouldn't see her again.
^^ ^^

        It had taken until noon to prepare the two halves of the Lostarian army. Eloe had been given control over one half. They were all very frightened when they were told that they must travel beyond the mountain. Many believed that the world ended there and they would all die. Yet, others realized that much of what had been taught to them was wrong. Their recent encounter with Ramlord and the Lits was proof of that!

        Talnar had already said goodbye to his family and friends. He couldn't wait for his army to be prepared for the trip to Dela. There just wasn't time, now that Dolnar knew about Kristopher! His heart ached as he thought of Camma and he missed her dearly. He was well on his way, heading southward toward Dela. From there, he would go to Normat and then to Eray. He rubbed his hand along his horse's mane as it moved him onward. "I'm sorry that you got so little rest, boy. The long journey will end soon..." _________________________________
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