The Last Talisman by Licia Troisi Read Free Book Online

opportunity to make his request. “The councilor here is in need of transportation. It’s a matter of extreme urgency, and I was wondering if it were at all possible to request the company of a Dragon Knight.”
    This time, Falere’s steadfast demeanor was broken, and the general regarded Varen with a troubled look. “Sir, I don’t know what the situation is like where you come from, but up here the war is taking a turn for the worse and we need every man we’ve got.”
    â€œEven just a basic horse will do,” Sennar cut in, but the count silenced him with a stern glare.
    â€œAs I explained, he’s on a mission for the Council. For which reason, I believe, the request is warranted.”
    Sennar began to feel uneasy. Varen, meanwhile, was cool and collected, stacking one lie on top of the next.
    â€œThen why is he not carrying a document authorizing such a mission?”
    â€œThe mission was assigned in great haste,” the count replied.
    Sennar wanted out of there. Falere fixed him with a skeptical gaze and the sorcerer felt trapped. Furthermore, the amulet must have once again eaten through its protective sheath of leaves, for he felt vaguely unwell. “In truth … the decision was made quite literally on the spot. A dragon would be of great assistance to me, but if there really is no way …” he added, joining the count in his charade.
    Falere’s expression lit up. “So be it. I’ve heard many good things spoken of you. If I’m not mistaken, you’re the very one responsible for this alliance.”
    â€œSo I am,” Sennar confirmed. His face was covered in sweat and breathing was becoming increasingly difficult.
    Falere grabbed a piece of parchment and began to write. “For three days you will be granted the service of the Dragon Knight Aymar. That’s the best I can do. He’ll be waiting for you tomorrow at the gate,” he concluded, handing him the signed document.
    The sharp feeling of discomfort was only increasing, and Sennar knew he had no time to lose before renewing the spell. His chest was now gripped with an acute, tightening sensation. “My sincere thanks,” he said, as he took the piece of parchment, “but there’s a matter of the utmost urgency to which I must attend now. If you’ll please excuse me—” he broke off and slipped away as quickly as possible, while Falere and the count stared after him in complete shock.
    He ran from the room and stopped at a corner in a narrow alleyway. When he took the amulet from his pocket and held it in the dim light, he could feel his strength drain from his body and the pain gripping his chest increase in intensity. Fortunately, he’d packed more fresh leaves. Struggling to catch his breath, he traced the runes once again and blocked the talisman with a seal. The very moment the stone disappeared from view, Sennar could feel his lungs fill with air again and his breathing return to normal.
    When he lifted his head, the count was standing before him.
    Varen knelt down and cast a worried look at Sennar. “You’re as white as a ghost. … Care to tell me what’s going on?”
    â€œNothing,” Sennar said, forcing a smile. “Nothing.” His expression turned serious. “If you’re a true friend of mine, I’m begging you, please just leave it be. Forget everything you saw happen in this alley. When I leave here, forget you ever saw me.”
    â€œI need to—”
    â€œI’m begging you,” Sennar insisted.
    â€œIf that’s what’s best for the mission at hand …”
    â€œIt is,” the sorcerer affirmed. He rested his head on the wall behind him and stared back at the count with gratitude.
    That night, Varen put Sennar up in one of his ship’s cabins. Sennar set out at daybreak the following morning. He bid the count a hasty farewell, unable even to look him in the