The Ascent (Book 2) Read Online Free PDF Page B

their will. Be sure to feed them.”
    Angus nodded and watched Eamon ride to the captive group. “You will do exactly what Angus tells you,” the Prince said, firmly. “Do you understand?”
    Those who understood nodded and translated for the others.
    “I am not one to condemn those who are forced to fight against their will,” Eamon continued. “Do as you’re told, and cause no trouble, and you will be welcome in my Kingdom.”
    The men said nothing, but seemed at a loss as to why they weren’t being marched to their deaths. It was beyond their understanding.
    As the Knights prepared to ride to Bray, Angus spoke up once more.
    “My Lord,” he said. “Though you are not the Prince of this Kingdom, I shall honor you as such. If you plan to lay claim to the throne, you have my sword.”
    “I would be most honored to have your support, Angus,” Eamon said. “If you wish, speak to Ulrich, my Captain. He is King of the Northmen that reside on this island, and is in command in my absence.”
    Angus nodded, and then turned to look over the captive Jindala. They were able bodied, to be sure, and Angus would use them to the best of their abilities. He had no doubt that they would comply with his wishes. The forge would be reopened in no time.
    “Come, my friends,” Eamon said to his Knights. “Bray awaits!”
     
     

Chapter Three
     
    Khalid awoke on the Dragon’s throne with a start. He shot up immediately after opening his eyes, and patted down his body to extinguish the flames that had engulfed him. He realized his foolishness, however, seeing that he wasn’t actually on fire, and sighed with relief. He breathed deeply, letting his heart slow to a steady pace. He closed his eyes, covering his face with his hands, and stood in silence as he composed himself. Then, realizing he was not alone, Khalid spread his fingers and looked through them.
    Before him was a man standing with his head cocked, staring at him curiously. The man was dressed in an ornate black tunic, with pieces of intricately decorated black plate armor over his shoulders, forearms, and knees. His boots were black, with bright silver buckles, and two beautifully crafted swords were strapped to his back. He had black hair, with bangs that were swept back and tied, and his eyes were pale blue.
    Strangely, despite the man’s dangerous appearance, Khalid was not afraid. He returned the man’s curious stare, saying nothing, waiting for the stranger to make the first move. After several intense seconds, the man spoke.
    “Hello, Khalid.” he said, his voice soft, yet commanding. “I am Erenoth, High Priest of Dol Drakkar.”
    Khalid simply nodded, still unsure whether the man was real.
    “I see that my appearance was unexpected,” Erenoth stated, relaxing his posture and stepping onto the riser. “But I am here to help you.”
    “How did you know my name?” Khalid asked.
    “I am the Dragon’s servant,” Erenoth replied. “He told me your name, and he called me here as he did you.”
    “Why?”
    Erenoth smiled. “To help you begin your journey,” he said.
    Khalid backed up to sit back down on the throne, but thought better of it. He began to pace nervously, unsure of his purpose.
    “I don’t even know why I am here,” he said. “Or why the Dragon chose me to walk his path.”
    “The Dragon works in strange ways, my friend,” Erenoth said. “I was in the same state of confusion when I first heard his call.”
    “Were you a thief and a murderer as well?” Khalid asked.
    Erenoth narrowed his gaze, putting his hands behind his back and pacing. “I was an assassin,” he replied, “for a kingdom across the sea. I came here to seek adventure, and the sport of hunting the primitive people of this island. But when I stepped foot on shore, the Dragon called to me from Dol Drakkar. I went there, unsure of what lay in the ruins. When I arrived, I met the Dragon, much as you did.”
    “You were an assassin and a hunter of men?” he