“The hell you will!” Kevin exploded. “Look you, I’m going to need someone I can trust to oversee the casde guards. What do you say, Lydia: do you want to be my commander-in-chief?”
She broke into a slow, happy grin. “Sure, kid! Someone’s got to keep an eye on you.”
“And I, Bard Kevin,” D’Krikas added, “will serve you as well.” The being paused uneasily.” If you will have me.”
“I can’t see myself running a casde without you.”
“Oh, I shall have help.” Humor glinted in D’Krikas’ great eyes.
“He means me!” Tich’ki piped up.
“Exactly.” D’Krikas gave a short chitter, almost a chuckle. “I was fooled once by a count who feigned nobility and by you—a natural noble who feigned commonness. With this little one by my side, I shall not dare slip into complacency again.”
Kevin laughed. “Agreed!”
“But what about Naitachal?” Lydia wondered.
Kevin glanced down the cable to where the Dark Elf and Master Aidan were deep in discussion. The young Bard could have sworn he heard Naitachal murmur, “But I won’t fetch your laundry. I’m a bit too old to be an errand boy.” And surely Master Aidan was chuckling and agreeing?
“Naitachal?” Kevin called, and the Dark Elf looked up. And for the first time since the young Bard had known him, true, peaceful joy shone in his blue eyes.
“Kevin, Master Aidan and I have come to an agreement I am going off with him to nice, tranquil Bracklin —as his apprentice. I shall take your advice, my friend, and study to become a Bard.” His smile was a beautiful thing. “I’ve had quite enough of Death,” Naitachal said. “I want to try the magic of Life for a change.”
Kevin smiled in return. “And may you enjoy it, my friend.”
“That’s that,” Tich’ki said in satisfaction. “All the loose ends are nicely tied up. All right, everyone, enough talk. We’ve some heavy celebrating to do!”
