Chapter 20
The dragon stamped and blew impatiently as Maya, Ben and Ilvy clambered up onto its back. Then they rose up above the ruins and set off back towards Ruby City. Astride the creature, the three passengers stared down at the floating island, which from this distance appeared no larger than a wispy cloud. The war, once a distant threat, was now hard upon them. As they bore closer, the iron birds came into view, first flying up towards Ruby City and then making return journeys.
The dragon hid amongst the rocks and dangling roots on the underside of the floating island, from where they had a good view of the enemy’s preparations.
“There are so many of them,” Maya whispered in horror.
“They’re getting ready for a proper siege. The iron birds are taking the army up to the island,” B
