Emrys prepared to leave the following morning, with a new hope in his heart. When he thought about leaving the bone palace, he was not afraid. He had faced horrors in the real world. He had fought in wars. He had had a magical duel with his nemesis and had lived to tell the tale.
Besides, Dara seemed to be able to do enough worrying on his behalf. All morning the fairy fussed and tutted as he tied up clusters of buries into bundles, filled water skins, and ensured that Emrys had all he needed for a long journey.
“I really am convinced you’re going to die out there,” Dara said. “If your mother could see me now…”
“What was that about my mother?”
“Not now boy, not now. One matter at a time. Just make sure to avoid any places that are too dark. Or too light. In fact, just avoid anything th
