Chapter Six Amual ReturnsLong scurried along behind Mai and Akra. He didn’t want them to know he was following them. Sadness had struck him. His thoughts weighed heavy on his mind. An unusual meddling in his thoughts had him thinking how easily Mai had disapproved of his behaviour towards Viridi. He didn’t like the old healer. He couldn’t explain why he didn’t like her, but he also couldn’t find a reason why he should. He struggled with his thoughts for a moment, making excuses for Mai. She had always encouraged him, but now that had changed. He never thought he could dislike his sister. His dark thoughts grew darker. Then a familiar voice called to him, and even as a mouse his ankles tingled.
Come this way, child. The seductive tone of her voice stopped his tiny feet in their tracks. Com
