is the best way to go about it. Why not leave it to Linis and the others to sway them?”
“Do we have that kind of time?” asked Gewey. “If the Dark Knight moved on us today what would happen? Could we fight him?”
“Then perhaps if I can't go with you, Linis can,” suggested Lee. “We could insist upon it.”
“We could request,” corrected Kaylia. “But Linis is an outlaw as well. It may prove difficult. But, I agree that it's worth a try. Outlaw or no, he is among the greatest of all the seekers, and his presence carries weight.”
The door open and Selena returned. Lee told her about their idea of Linis accompanying them.
“I like it,” said Selena thoughtfully. “I think if I agree to allow the Book of Souls to return to the elves, he will agree. I'll approach the subject in the morning.” She took a long look at Gewey and Kaylia. “I think it's time you two rested. We can talk more in the morning.”
Gewey protested, but Selena stopped him with one stern look. Lee and Dina embraced them tightly and bid them goodnight.
“I'll wake you if I'm successful,” called Gewey to Lee as he was leaving. Lee nodded and shut the door.
Chapter Six
Malstisos felt a cool breeze caress his cheeks as he walked between the massive redwoods. The noon sun shone through the leaves, making the grass sparkle like a million tiny emeralds. The forest was familiar, but like a distant memory from childhood. He reached over and touched the almost black bark of a nearby tree. It should have been hard and coarse, but it wasn't. It was soft, smooth, and yielded to his touch. He withdrew his hand in amazement. He reached out again and gently moved his hand over the bark. Light rippled up the length of the tree and back down again. Malstisos stood transfixed by the sight.
“This can't be real,” he whispered.
“It's real,” a voice called from behind.
Malstisos spun around, but there was no one there. “Who are you?” There was no answer. He reached for his knife but found that it was no longer at his side. “Show yourself.”
“I am here.” This time the voice was softer and clearly feminine.
“Why can't I see you?” he asked, straining his eyes. The forest began to blur and shift. “What's happening?”
“Don't be afraid. We are friends.”
“We?” he said. “Who are you, and what do you want?”
“It's Kaylia. I'm here with Gewey.”
“Kaylia? Why can't I see you? What is this place?”
“You are at the edge of the spirit realm. Why you can't see me, I do not know. I suspect that you would in time. But time is not a luxury we have. We have guided you here, but I do not know how long you can remain.”
“How do I know you are who you say you are?” he challenged. “How do I know this isn't just a vivid dream?”
“Does it feel like a dream?”
“Yes... and no,” he said. “I feel awake but all this…” He looked out as the forest ebbed and flowed like a green tide. “It can't be real.”
“It is real,” said Kaylia. “At least in the sense that this is a real place. This is only our second time here, but I think that it changes with your thoughts and emotions. I do know that the dangers here are very real.”
“Dangers,” said Malstisos. “What dangers?”
“There is no time to explain. Gewey is struggling to keep you in this world. Did you succeed in saving Lee’s wife and son?”
“His son is with us,” he replied. “But I'm sad to say that his wife has been taken north to Angrääl. Millet is taking the boy to Baltria, while I escort Maybell to Althetas.”
“I see...” she paused. “Stick to your plan. Lee will find Millet in Baltria. Gewey and I have our own task, but you will be met in Althetas. Go to the Frogs Wishbone when you arrive. An agent from Valshara will contact you there.”
“How am I to know—” Malstisos began. The forest turned into a swirl of light and color. He felt as if he were falling. Then blackness.
Malstisos awoke drenched in sweat, his heart pounding. For a moment, he didn't know where he was. As his mind cleared, he heard the sound of Millet, Jacob, and Maybell's deep, regular breathing. He reached over and shook Millet.
“What's wrong?” asked Millet groggily. Malstisos recounted his experience.
“Do you believe it was them?” Millet asked.
“I do. How they accomplished it I can't imagine,