Chapter 20Loman clattered down stairs and along corridors, struggling to keep up with the fleet-footed young apprentice who had brought him the message. At his side ran Athyr. Yrain, troubled by her foot, fell increasingly behind, accompanied by a reluctantly sympathetic Gulda.
It was a long journey, deep into the heart of the Castle, but each time they slowed down to a walk, the boy looked at them anxiously. ‘Master Ireck said I was to ask you to hurry,’ he would repeat after about a dozen more leisurely paces. Thus both men were breathing heavily when they came upon Ireck and a group of others waiting in the hall in which the weapons were being temporarily stored and which marked the entrance to the labyrinth.
Loman made straight for Ireck.
‘I hope this is as urgent as your little mes
