NICOLE LEARNED THE meaning of the lapse of time as she stood and watched Sarah search the king’s chamber. Nicole did her best to point out any drawer or book that might hold a healing spell. How long they searched was uncertain since time did not pass in this city. There would be no noon sun overhead, no fading light as dusk approached. Nothing would mark the passage of time.
When Cabal appeared in the doorway, Sarah turned to him and sighed in frustration, saying, “There isn’t anything here that can help Mikado. These talismans are for battle and defense. I don’t know what else to do, Cabal.”
He took her hands in his and spoke softly, “You have searched long and hard. Now you need to say goodbye to your father. We have built a funeral pyre in the park in front of the palace. Your father
