The Rebellion

by Isobelle Carmody

  I farsent a probe to Rushton and found him with Alad on the farms.

  His mind reacted with a wariness that hurt me, but which I knew I deserved.

  “I thought we could go for a walk after nightmeal,” I sent gently. “It is so warm, and it will be light enough to swim in the high springs.”

  I felt his cautious pleasure. “You would like that? To walk and swim?”

  I laughed and sent my laughter to him. “Why not? We have time.”

  ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

  To Nan McNab, for stepping into the breach with her own particular brand of sensitive, meticulous editing; to the Australia Council, for their creative grants which allow that things sometimes grow where you least expect them; to Choice Connections in Geelong, and in particular to Adrian, who gave emergency computer counseling, on the phone and sometimes halfway round the world. And thanks to Mallory, Nick, and Whitney, for giving the stories new life in America.

  Last but not least, thanks to Jan and to my darling Adelaide, for tolerating this immense cuckoo in our nest!

  Captured by an old enemy, can Elspeth stop an ambitious plot to thwart the rebellion?

  THE

  DREAMTRAILS

  Includes two complete novels

  WAVESONG • THE STONE KEY

  I LEFT THE bedchamber and found Harwood focused on Mendi, but the others turned to look at me as I entered the firelit audience chamber.

  I gathered my wits and told them, seeing their faces reflect the shattered dismay I felt. Harwood had ceased probing Mendi, and he asked in disbelief, “Did you say everyone will die?”

  “Everyone,” I said, and I seemed to hear the high mocking sound of Ariel’s laughter.