The Chronicles of Kale: Dawn of Retribution (Book 2) Read Free Page A

ungrateful, boy. We have just saved the life of you and your comrades. What is it you desire to know?”
    “We can start by learnin’ how you knew of our location. Your timin’ was too perfect for it to be mere coincidence,” Illadar chimed into the conversation, too fueled by curiosity to remain silent.
    “Indeed. A wise question—Illadar Ranclef,” Alden replied.
    Illadar’s deep brown eyes grew wide, uncertain how anyone could possibly know his true name.
    “Tame yourself now.” Alden chuckled to himself. “I am aware of who you are from a mutual ally. His name is James—a young boy who is in your debt for saving his life. He recalls you quite well and is now among our warriors, fighting to end this corruption Jedah has plagued upon Revaxis.”
    “It can’t be . . .” Illadar wrinkled the skin between his brows, trailing back in time to when he fought Sylicia, The Ice Matriarch.
    “Quite ironic how things turn out, wouldn’t you say?” Alden smiled. “Now, where was I?” he cleared his throat, “We were aware of your location for some time. An old beggar watched nearby on the night you defeated Malakhar. He had followed behind on foot in hopes that you might rest so he could claim your food rations. How do I know, you wonder?” He smiled. “Any man I’ve yet crossed who spends his life begging for goods will surely share his sights for coin. My men have been tracking your movement since the departure from the Forest of Forgotten Whispers with Princess Judith.”
    “You have been spying on us? For what purpose?” Kale felt angered to know that during their journey, without his knowledge, their every move was being watched from afar.
    “We needed to be certain you were not an ally to our enemy. Rumors had arrived that you defeated Malakhar, but I wanted confirmation by my own men that your intention was not to mislead King Valamar. The Princess would have been a prime tool for bargaining anything you could have desired—so we scouted your location to ensure she made a safe return.”
    “He makes a good point you know, Kale,” Neelan added. “With all the influence Jedah has spread across Ravondore, it’s hard to know who is truly on our side. Though his acts were cruel, there are those corrupt at heart who would be honored to join forces with Jedah.”
    “All right Alden, then tell me, since you seem to know so much about the situation, what were those creatures that attacked? It was purposely directed at me, I heard them speak my name—therefore, an informant who is loyal to Jedah must have prepared the attack well before we left the castle grounds. They knew we were coming.” Kale glanced down at Thomas.
    “Those were the Amakai tribe—beings that have a taste for human flesh. They utilize their poisonous darts to immobilize victims. It is said the Amakais are easily persuaded to carry out tasks when given a human sacrifice. It is our belief that whoever wanted you dead has provided them with just that. We have our doubts it was Jedah, or his lieutenant who executed this attack. We think there may be another . . .”
    “Someone else who knows who I am and wants my head?” Kale’s grip tightened on his reigns.
    “And just who are you?” Alden locked eyes with Kale.
    “Sir!” A deep voice called, interrupting the conversation. “We have defeated all but one rider. He swiftly fled after our target left by your side.”
    “Target? I do hope he does not mean me , Alden.” Kale glared.
    Alden laughed aloud, “You were referred to as such during our tracking mission.” He turned to his comrade. “From this moment forth, let us address him as Kale.”
    The man nodded, joining the group in a steady trot as they continued toward Alden’s camp.
    “Are you sure he’s going to be all right, Alden?” Kale broke the silence after many miles had been placed behind them. The sky was now overcome with darkness and many of Alden’s men had joined the party.
    He hated seeing Thomas appear