Pen nodded. «The tanequil killed it. It’s a long story. But anything that crosses this bridge is in real danger. I’m alive because of this.»
He nodded down at the darkwand, which was resting next to him on the bridge, flat against the stone, tucked into the shadows.
The Dwarf peered at it, then caught sight of Pen’s damaged hand and looked up again quickly. «What happened to your fingers?»
« The tree took them in exchange for the staff. Blood for sap, flesh for bark, bones for wood. It was necessary. Don’t think on it.»
« Don’t think on it?» Tagwen was appalled. He glanced quickly over Pen’s shoulder into the darkness of the tanequil’s island. «Where is Cinnaminson?»
Pen hesitated. «Staying behind. Safe, for now. Tagwen, listen to me. I have to do what they want. I have to go with them to Paranor.»
Tagwen stared. «No, Penderrin. You won’t come out of there alive. They don’t intend to let you go. Nor your parents, either. You’re being taken to Shadea a’Ru. She’s behind what’s happened to the Ard Rhys, and once she’s questioned you about what you are doing and you tell her—which you will, make no mistake—you and your parents are finished. Don’t doubt me on this.»
Pen nodded. «I don’t, Tagwen. But look at how things stand. We’re trapped here, all of us. Even without the Druids to deal with, we’re stranded in these ruins, surrounded by Urdas. I have to get out if I’m to help my aunt, and the quicker the better. It’s already been too long. If I don’t get to Paranor and use the darkwand soon, it will be too late. And now I have a way. The Druids will take me faster than I could get there on my own. I know it’s dangerous. I know what they intend for me. And for my parents. But I have to risk it.»
« You’re risking too much!» the Dwarf snapped. «You’ll get there quick enough, all right. And then what? They won’t let you into the chamber of the Ard Rhys. They won’t let you make use of that talisman. Shadea will see you for the threat you are and do away with you before you have a chance to do anything!»