55 The Prince Meets His People

Back where Erom had left them, the others were beginning to get worried. “Are you sure nothing has gone wrong with him?” Ella asked for the umpteenth time. “I always had doubts about this Gavadiol fellow.” Eltak said grimly. “Maybe he fell and twisted his leg or something.” Lara insisted firmly. “Either way, this has nothing to do with Gavadiol.” “I think I should go check on him.” Eltak said at last. “But I do not want to leave you women all alone here.” “You can do as you please.” Lara said. “We will be safe here. Gavadiol is somewhere around. There can be no problem.” The butler fought to restrain his exasperation at his young mistress. But before any of them could move another inch or say another word, they heard movements up ahead. The next second, two men appeared. It was Erom and he was being pushed along by another man. A man holding a knife to his throat. A tall man sporting dark, curly hair that fell around his broad shoulders. Lara knew that face anywhere. It wa