The Eight Lands of Pharr are in trouble, and the only ones who can help are a young princess and the sister she believes lost. They hold two of the four Magical Stones, created long ago by an Ancient Mystic to channel the magic of his bloodline. But when an evil witch named Patadora Coggs seeks to control the Stones, the two girls must join forces to save their unsuspecting world. With them is a motley crew gathered as they travel to retrieve the remaining two Stones. Airk Ranon, cynical Weapons Master. The Baret Wray and First Commander Dungan Weir, who command King Randel's army. Elke, a centurion who has never been away from home. Skotak, an Emini Plainsman who provides steeds for the travelers. Dreux, a young prince seeking adventure, and his lover, Estelle. And Kitt, a young orphan held enslaved by pirates. Chased by Patadora's Maelnords and her own shapeshifting daughter, and by the infamous Weapons Master's outlaw reputation, the young friends travel land and sea in their quest to find the last two Stones. Once they have the Magical Stones of Pharr in their possession, they must travel to the witch's lair and end her evil reign of terror.

The Magical Stones of Pharr

His black bandanna held back his hair; Shaela loved how it made him look. Gently she tugged at his blanket, pulling it back. Before she could change her mind, she crawled in beside him.


His eyes opened instantly. “What are you doing here?”


“Trying to get warm,” came her reply.


Tentatively he wrapped his arms around her, drawing her close. She allowed herself to be held. “Why the sudden change?” he murmured.


“Shhh.” She nestled closer to him. “I’m asleep.”


She did fall asleep, almost instantly, content and secure in his arms. But Airk spent most of the night wide awake.


Crossing the river was easy—the caulk held and the last wagon was on the opposite shore a full half hour before the current began anew. A day’s travel and the Gypth village stood before them. They pressed on.


Chapter 55