Gwenn, her voice a ragged whisper, translated. “He says you should come with us, William. If you remain here, they will kill you.”
William steadfastly refused. “I will stay and hold them off as long as I can. Then I must make my way back to Acorn and see if I can help your mother somehow.”
Gunnar listened as Gwenn translated. He offered his hand to William and said in Maraison, “Thank you.”
William clasped it briefly and then turned and ran for the wagon. Gunnar strained mightily to raise the heavy, square sail. He knew the strength and direction of the wind was all that lay between them and disaster. Fortunately, the sail filled immediately, and the Fire Drake moved smartly to the centre of the river. Gunnar moved back to the steering oar and kept her steady, all the while watching the
