50
Waterstone made their excuses pleading an issue with the children. Since Tarkyn was often drawn away by the exploits of his little charge, no one thought twice about their departure but as soon as they were out of earshot, Tarkyn turned to Waterstone, “Why all the subterfuge? It does not sit well with me to deceive our friends.”
“I know it doesn’t, but I will explain as we walk.” Waterstone led them up the hill towards the place where Stormaway and he had first realised that Tarkyn was a forest guardian.
As they came closer, Tarkyn could hear the sounds of a heated discussion taking place. When he frowned a query, Waterstone answered, “Because Boravar and the trappers are with them, they are speaking out aloud.”
Comprehension dawned, “Oh, I see. Nice of them.” He raised his eyebrows
