Barhan and Deneve’s visit with Saya wasn’t merely a social one. They had met with one of Saya’s contacts who had given them the Symbol-Engraved Black Bead. According to myth, this black bead was used by the cult of Kzarka to control Garzar and his herd of black dragons.

“What are we supposed to do with this bead anyway?” Deneve asked Barhan as they left Shakatu.

“I’m not sure. An army of black dragons would be an asset to the Katan army,” He answered honestly, “But that may not be the best idea. If anything, this power must be kept out of the wrong hands.”

“You would let it go if you felt you would do wrong.” She stated rather than asking.

Barhan nodded. “I would. We are coming into hostile territory now. Please follow behind me.”

Deneve fell back as he asked. The soldiers that were accompanying them flanked Prince Barhan and Deneve. As they continued through the canyon, Deneve felt increasingly anxious.

Soon enough, her feelings were affirmed as they were surrounded by Gahaz bandits. The guards placed Deneve within a protective circle as Barhan stepped up to fight. There were so many Deneve used the skills she could from behind the soldiers. But to do anything to make a difference, she needed them out of harm’s way. Deneve was limited by their presence. At the same time, it seemed as if they were being stymied as well.

“Barhan, they need to move!” Deneve yelled above the din. “I’ll be fine. Let them do their job!”

Barhan glanced over at her, worried but nodded, “Go!” He commanded the guards.

Deneve stepped out, sphera blazing as a group of bandits surround her. Raising her arms, she let out lighting that struck the group to the ground.

Catching Barhan’s surprised expression, she shouted. “I’ll be fine watch your own back!”

Spinning outside of the circle of dazed bandits, she called on Gorr, who rolled toward the group. Most were crushed immediately, and those who escaped ran.

There were so many bandits. Deneve looked for Barhan, but he wasn’t with the other soldiers. Worriedly she scanned the area and found him fighting a group of enemies. Deneve knew he was a good swordsman, but six on one wasn’t good odds. Without a second thought, Deneve ran toward him as she tossed a puddle of poison at a group as she passed.

But before she could get to Barhan, it happened…He stumbled against a rock as he was being pushed back into the wall of the cavern. The bandits took advantage of this mistake immediately.

“No!” Deneve was filled with rage as she called on Tett. Her arms rose in graceful arcs as she called on the destructive power of lightning. The bandits dropped to the ground as charred bodies, and the smell of burning flesh rose into the air.

Taking no notice, Deneve stepped over the bodies calling upon her healing powers. Barhan just looked at her in shock as she repaired the worst of the damage.

“Tsk, Tsk, still dealing with these weaklings, Deneve?” A voice said arrogantly.

Without releasing her spell, she answered, “Why do you care so much, Lord Red?”

“They are not worthy of you.” He said coldly.

“And who made it up to you to decide who is worthy of help?” She retorted. “You arrogant, egotistical, presumptuous, foul magus. You are not my keeper. It would do you well to remember that!” Lord Red was speechless at her anger. “Why are you even here?” She asked, annoyed, “Don’t you have power to be overtaking somewhere?”

“Of course, that is why I am here,” He replied sleazily. “The Symbol-Engraved Black Bead, do you have it?”

“I do not,” Deneve answered honestly as her gaze briefly flitted to Barhan, who had the good sense to stay silent.

“Perhaps I was mistaken of its whereabouts.” He sighed, “Good information is so hard to come by in this world. Fine, go about your self-less, magnanimous ways for people who won’t remember your name after you die trying to save them. I won’t hinder you” He looked over his shoulder to see another group of bandits approaching. “In fact, I’ll even give you a helping hand.” He added. Before he disappeared into the air and reappeared as a flaming ball, killing the group immediately. “I’m sure we’ll meet again Deneve. “ Lord Red called over his shoulder.

Deneve wrapped her arm around Barhan as she helped him stand. “Who was…” He started to ask.

“I know you have questions, but let’s get to safety first,” Deneve said firmly, her tone leaving no room for argument. The guards moved in to help Barhan walk as Deneve took up guarding the group. They left the canyon behind with no further incident.