Franklin drew his short sword and advanced on Herman. “Leave the mare alone. We're not leavin' the sledge.” Herman unsheathed his own scimitar. “I don't think you understand who's in charge here Fred. Believe me when I say you don't want to challenge a Ranger to a duel.” “Funny, we dern't see any Rangers here. … Continue reading 30b (Argentum’s Song – PG)

Chapter Thirty Claude listened carefully to the latest refrain and turned to Sven. “That one was different.” Sven nodded. “The first two were 'Distress - overwhelming numbers'. The last one was garbled, I've no idea what it was saying.” “The Marshal?” “Maybe, or one of the other Warriors he was inviting to the council? It … Continue reading 30a (Argentum’s Song – PG)

“I didn't say I wouldn't come, I just ... I just wanted a plan first.” But even as she mumbled it, she knew she was making justifications. This would not look good to Bildad if he was alive when this was all over. Really though, what were the odds she would be alive when this … Continue reading 29b (Argentum’s Song – PG)

Chapter Twenty Nine Three notes into the song she had been longing for for days, Argent broke off to listen to a distant bugling. “Fath - Simon's in trouble!” Argent grabbed Martha's hand and pulled her behind him. After rushing forward off the main trail for a dozen paces she dug in her heals pulled … Continue reading 29a (Argentum’s Song – PG)

Argent turned his attention to study the ground at his feet. The water had eroded away enough of the trail that it wasn’t obvious unless you were looking for it. However, yes, there was evidence of horse prints leading north down the mountainside. That would certainly explain why they hadn’t been able to overtake the … Continue reading 28b (Argentum’s Song – PG)

Chapter Twenty Eight The day was warmer than any Argent had felt since returning to the north. He was still glad for his poncho, but the sun was out and causing exposed snow to melt and form rivulets that meandered down the rough trail ahead of them. However, even with the excess muck, the trail … Continue reading 28a (Argentum’s Song – PG)

“What was your name again?” “Fra - Fredrick sir.” Really Franklin, that's how you're going to blow your cover? By almost telling your festering name! Definitely away from court intrigues too long. “Well Fredrick, do you mind telling me how you ended up in possession of a Crescent Spark?” “When I went back to the … Continue reading 27b (Argentum’s Song – PG)

Chapter Twenty Seven Franklin leaned his good shoulder into the harness and pushed again, to no avail. The sledge was stuck fast. The further down the mountain he got, the less ice and snow, and the more often this happened. He needed a break anyway. He sat onto the Sledge and downed another ladle of … Continue reading 27a (Argentum’s Song – PG)

Bildad glared back at Martha. Argent walked between them. “Look Bildad, it’s not just for her O.K.. I’m really cold, and with the door shut and the fire going it is heating up in here. If I had some stew in me too, I think it would really help.” “Which is why you should never … Continue reading 26f (Argentum’s Song – PG)