Siege of Night

by Jeff Gunzel

  “Addel and I have been sorting through the ancient scrolls. We—Addel, really—have discovered something of grave importance.” Everyone stared attentively, not sure they really wanted to hear this. “Addel had been tracking the various power shifts in our lands, and it seems,” he looked down as he choked on the words, unable to finish right away, “it seems the only entry point where Krytoes can possibly enter the world of man is not even located in Tarmerria!”

  Everyone sat there wide-eyed, looking down at the map Addel had strung across the table. It was an ancient world map which none of them could really understand. They recognized the shape of Tarmerria just fine, but had no knowledge of all the waters and lands around it. As far as most of them knew, Tarmerria was the world.

  Berkeni looked to Ilirra. “You must send riders to the east coast, my lady. The port cities must begin building sturdy ships immediately.” He then placed a bony finger on a large cluster of land that stood across a great body of water from the only spot they even recognized on this map. “I implore you all to get ready as soon as possible. We must leave Tarmerria soon. Prepare to set sail for Shangti!”