The next two days fly by fast. By the end of the fourth day, the walls of Cardri come into sight. When the view first appears before them, James can hear a gasp from his friend Dave. Turning toward him, he sees the awe in his eyes. “Told you it was impressive,” he tells his friend.

“I know,” he replies softly. “But I never expected this.”

The scene before them is one of breathtaking beauty. Far away on the horizon, the sun lies low near the ocean, its light a dazzling display of sparkles upon the water. Ships of every size are either at anchor at one of the many docks lining the shoreline or upon the water under sail. The walls of the castle itself gleam in the light and the city surrounding it sprawls for miles in every direction.

To Illan, James says, “There’s an inn called the Silver Bells located within the second wall. I know the proprietress and it would be a good place to stay while we’re here.”

Shrugging, he says, “One place is as good as another.”

A branch of the Kelewan River flows to the east around the city before emptying into the sea. Just as they are about to ride onto the bridge spanning the river, Fifer points off to the east and exclaims, “Illan!”

In an area adjacent to the river, sits a large encampment of tents. The pennant flying from the largest of the tents bears the Empire’s insignia. “What are they doing here?” James asks.

“I don’t know,” replies Illan as he glances at him, a worried expression upon his face.

“Can’t have anything to do with me could it?” asks James.

“I wouldn’t think so,” he says. “Best to give them a wide berth. No sense looking for trouble.”

“I agree,” replies James. To the rest he adds, “While we’re in town, keep your ears open for what they may be doing here.”