"Ivane!" gasped Landor. "The people do not know he is dead and she awaits the star-king's invasion to proclaim herself Empress!. . In the god's name, Kieron, don't kill me! I speak the truth!"
"Freka helped plan this?" demanded Kieron.
"He is Ivane's man," stammered Landor, "but I know nothing of him! Nothing, Kieron! The warlock Geller brought him to Ivane five years ago. . that is all I know!"
Geller of the Marshes. . again. Kieron felt the awful dread seeping through his anger. Somehow the connection between Geller and Freka must be discovered. Somehow. .
Kieron turned away from the terrified Landor. The picture was shaping now. Freka and Ivane. The star-king's rebellion. Toran… murdered.
"Keep this hound under guard!" ordered Kieron. Landor was led away, shaken and weak.
"Nevitta!"
"Sir?"
"You and the princess will go back to the ship as you came. She must be taken to safety at once. As soon as that pig is missed, we'll have visitors. ."
"No, Kieran! I won't go!" cried Alys.