Alexander was again feeling the urgency to get to New Ruatha and then to Blackstone Keep. He had so much to do and couldn’t help worrying that time was running out. Phane was in Karth and had clearly taken command of the Reishi Army Regency. He appeared to be intent on taking command of the entire Isle of Karth. Once he had that secure, he would be able to consolidate his forces and have a good-sized army of battle-tested soldiers at his disposal. Alexander didn’t know what Phane’s next target would be, but he did know that eventually Phane would come to Ruatha and he wanted to be as ready as possible when that day came. They moved more quickly than they had for the past few days. The encounter with the gorledons, coupled with Alexander’s sense of urgency, made for a fast pace through the forest. It was midmorning when Isabel guided them up a rise and stopped to look out over the little valley below. She smiled broadly and motioned for Alexander to hurry. He was speechless at the sight.
