He called to Fern.
He called to Kyra.
He asked for help.
Softly the feathery leaves rustled in the evening breeze.
The tree seemed to sigh.
‘Help me,’ he whispered, ‘tell me what to do.’
The tree did not speak, but as he shut his eyes and laid his forehead on a low branch he felt a sense of great confidence and rest.
Khu-ren stood beside him and told him what healing things to do for the boy.
Kyra stood beside him and told him what to do about the sail gliders.
Joyfully he opened his eyes and although he could see no one, he no longer felt alone.
* * * *
The night Karne spent with the Rowan tree was spent in a very different way by Na-Groth and his court.
A new supply of the precious plants that gave the Smoke of Dreams had arrived by ship.
Like stone images the guards stood a
