Unicorns' Opal

"We will look disgusting enough and diseased so the scout won't want to get close. Trying to get through the pass in the disguises would never work."

"So, the attention of the sentries will be on the old hags," chuckled Arik. "In the meantime, we will be climbing the mountain."

"Yes," commented Alex, "but I still have concerns about everyone getting up the mountain safely. Mountain climbing is a skill I have not taught you yet. It is not as easy or safe as it sounds. I can help Tanya, but I can't be in two places at the same time."

"Let me switch with Arik," suggested Tanya. "I have had some lessons in climbing. They were not enough to satisfy me, but at least I will be able to share the basics with Tedi."

Alex looked surprised at the young woman and nodded his head. "Some day you must tell me about all of this training your uncle arranged for you," smiled Alex. "It sounds like he expected you to get into a lot of trouble."

"The world is a very troubling place," stated Tanya. "I expressed an interest in learning and he always obliged me. I miss him very much."

"I am sorry," consoled Alex. "We have all left loved ones behind. I know that doesn't help, but at least you will know you are not alone."

"But I am all alone," Tanya said softly as she turned to recheck her mount.

***

Zorn rose and stared at the sunrise. It had been many years since he had seen one and despite what the Dark Riders believed, he enjoyed seeing the sun. He enjoyed talking with Calastano last night. The man had an intelligence that Arpal and Quilo could only dream about. Those two didn't even deserve to be called Black Devils like Calastano and himself. Calastano was concerned that the Kantor group did not arrive yesterday and hinted at going to meet them. If the trip was made, Zorn wanted to be part of it. He detested waiting and the troops assembled in the pass wouldn't miss him. He saw Calastano walking with Xerog and headed towards them.

"Calastano," Zorn greeted, "I would like to accompany you today, if you don't mind."

"I was just discussing my little trip with Xerog," grinned Calastano. "He is concerned about me going alone, like a mother hen."

"Protecting you is one of my major duties," declared Xerog. "The Dark One is never pleased with a Commander who loses his magician. If you must go, I will accompany you personally. My men are trained enough to hold the pass without me and we will probably meet the Kantor group before midday. Zorn is welcome to join us if you have no objections. That will still leave two magicians in the pass and they are not my responsibility to protect."