Chapter Four
Ambush

Bobo soon caught up with his friends, there were still people running here , there and everywhere. Screams and shouts could be heard from all directions with guards clambering up and down the walls. It was easy to see where the beetles had been attacking the city's defences. One or two of the smaller stones had been dislodged, huge cracks were plainly visible. Men were wedging long poles between the walls and the ground to strengthen the only barrier between the town and the great black monsters.
The trio turned and headed down the street in the general direction of the river, winding their way through many streets and alleys, eventually arriving at the ferry. Spud was the first to jump on board, grabbing the rope which operated it as he did so. Teedol was next, followed closely by Bobo. No sooner had Bobo got on board, Spud started to haul on the rope. Slowly the ferry began to move away from the river bank gradually picking up speed.

Before long the trio had reached the other side of the great river. Looking down the opposite bank they could see two large ships and one smaller vessel moored to the quay. People were climbing onto the ships in a bid to escape the attack of the beetles. Teedol and his friends wasted no time, heading east along the caravan route. It was thought by Spud that travelling along the main caravan track would provide the group with more safety.

" With many travellers on the road it may be possible to acquire assistance , should it become necessary of course. The real problem comes when we have to turn off the main track to begin the journey across the plains. " Reasoned Spud.

The stories which had come about the plains were of great bands of ghedi and dwarves. According to the stories, should they be caught by the ghedi, fate would lead them into large cooking pots, after which they would become the next meal. The stories about the dwarves were no better. It was said that since the War of Terror the dwarves had gone mad. They roamed the plains searching for bands of ghedi and when the two met the result was always the same. BLOODY BATTLE ! It was also said that the dwarves were so mad and out of control, they killed anything that moved. Though it was true no one had ever returned from the plains, it was not known if anyone had gone onto the plains in the first place.

Teedol interrupted as it was Spud telling the tales of the Plains.

" Golaf has related to me many of the stories from the Ancient Lore. A good many were to do with the dwarves and the elves. Some were even about the Big Folk. I can only go by what I have heard. All I am trying to say is that I don't believe the stories concerning the dwarves. I think they are designed to keep people away from the plains, but I will add that I have no doubt about the tales of the ghedi orcs and trolls. " Said Teedol finally.

The others thought a moment, then they too agreed with Teedol.

Still in conclusion to Spud's tale.

" I have heard it said, only the brave or stupid venture onto the plains, let alone the Red Mountains. "

A long silence followed as the trio continued along the track. Bobo was not even aware of his feet moving as his thoughts were on Pippa. He wondered if she were safe, and of what she was doing.

After these thoughts had run their course, his contemplations became more mellow, until his mind was filled with the tender memories of an all too short a time he and Pippa had spent together. Spud, on the other hand, was full of adventure, he day-dreamed of fighting dragons and slaying trolls. Invincibly he fought laying waste many great enemies. The thoughts running through Teedol's mind however, were nowhere near as fanciful. It seemed as if his feet were like lead weights, every step he took seemed to take forever to complete. He could not help thinking that it was because of him Bobo and Pippa had to split up after such a short time. He was also concerned for Pippa's safety. Was she safe now ?

After all he had left the town where she was hiding. Another thought popped into his head. How was he, a relatively simple cotchit, supposed to save the whole of Earth ? What could he do against the mighty Evil One ? Why couldn't a wizard like Golaf find the Amulet ? After all he is a magic user already. Reasoned Teedol. Did the wizard know or understand the burden he had put on this poor, innocent little cotchit ? Time marched on as did the trio of friends, travellers passed in both directions, none except the companions, were walking. Spud suggested they walk for three hours at a time, with a half hour rest in between each period. It was getting towards time for their first break. " Hey look, over THERE ! A circle of stones. Let's have a rest. " Said Teedol.

" Sounds like a great idea to me. " Bobo replied with great enthusiasm. Upon reaching the stones they could see the circle was made of seven small rocks set around a central large boulder, which had a flattened top, perfect for resting and eating.

It felt so good to take off those backpacks and was a relief to just to sit down. While sitting eating, Bobo had an idea.

" Why don't we buy a wagon or ponies ? It would make the journey quicker, far easier and probably safer. " He asked quizzically. " I agree, ponies or whatever would do, but you must remember where we are going. Ponies could not make it into the Red Mountains, neither will wagons. Now I will ask you a question my friend. What would we do with the ponies once we have reached the Red Mountains ? " Asked Spud subjectively. " Er, em, well we would have to let them go. Surely they would find their way back to Forlin , or somewhere ! " Said Bobo whilst trying to sound confident.

" While I agree with you, they could possibly find their way back, should their luck last that long, I tend to think they would more likely end up as an orc's dinner, or even a troll's supper for that matter. Do you think it a worthy fate for carrying us so faithfully all that way ? " Asked Spud.

" I see what you mean. I would rather walk than let that happen. " Said Bobo somewhat dejectedly.
Again a silence fell, not to be broken until a single wagon pulled up by the stones. Holding the reins was a cotchit from the Greater Shire. Teedol seemed to remember seeing him on one of his visits.

" Do you mind if we join you ? " Asked the driver. " No we don't mind friend, join us and be welcome. " Said Teedol politely. The driver climbed down from his seat and walked around to the back of the wagon letting down the tail gate. A lady was first to appear, closely followed by two youngsters. The children each picked a stone and sat down. They were very polite and greeted the friends. They sat talking to one another quietly. The driver came and sat beside Spud, who was sitting to the right of Teedol, and spoke again.

" I am Bob Oakenfield from the Shire. This is my wife Freda and my two children. I am a trader making my way to Forlin for the fayre there in two days time. May I enquire, where you are heading for ? " Teedol was at a loss as to what he should tell the cotchit trader. He did not like to, nor did he want to, lie. He stammered but was interrupted by Spud's quick thinking.

" We are from Manap travelling to the Greater Shire to see our relatives. " Lied Spud. He had never been to the Greater Shire, although Teedol had. Spud thought it better to keep their real reason for travelling a secret. Teedol was pleased at Spud's intervention. A deception had started and Teedol fully understood Spud's motives for it. So he went along with it. More time passed in what amounted to idle chit chat. The trader asked one or two questions which could not be answered. Spud made a polite excuse while saying that they must leave. Hurriedly the three friends re-packed bidding the cotchit trader and his family a good day and a safe journey.

The trio, now feeling much better and certainly more light-hearted, set off along the track once more.

" Whew ! That was close. I had no idea what to say when Bob asked why we did not have animals and why were we walking instead of taking the river boat up to Grey Friars. It was a good job Spud thought to say I could not travel by boat because I suffered sickness the last time. " Said Bobo with a slight chuckle.

" Yes we certainly had to think quickly there. " Interjected Spud, feeling rather proud of himself. He was not proud of lying, just at his quick thinking. The rest of the story was well believable as in part it was true . Teedol did know the Shire very well and of course, he did have relatives there.

The three friends spent more time talking to each other. Telling stories of things they had done. Finally Spud asked Teedol to tell once more, with as much detail as possible, the story of the wizard and more especially about the feats of magic performed by him. Cotchit's, not unlike elves, loved to hear about magic and the like. You could keep them mesmerized for hours with such tales. The trio went merrily on their way for several more miles in this fashion. It was not until they came upon a caravan of travelling players before they stopped again. There were four caravans pulled around in a big circle. A large round cooking pot was suspended on a tripod over a large log fire in the centre. The sound of music and dancing could be heard .

" Welcome friends. Would you care to join us ? We are to eat soon. " Said a man who was dressed rather flamboyantly.

" No thank you, we stopped not long ago to eat. Thank you for your very kind offer all the same.

" Said Teedol with hesitancy in his voice.

" Do forgive me if I have frightened you. That was not my intention. Allow me to introduce myself. I am the magnificent Dr. Sargle. " Said the man as he took off his very tall round hat and bowed.

" Pleased to meet you. These are my friends and companions Bobo and Spud. I am Teedol. We are travellers.

" Said Teedol with a slight stammer. " Look my friends, I understand your caution, but I assure you it is not my wish to harm you. We, like you, are merely travellers but with one difference. We are travelling players putting on shows wherever we stop. These are my fellow Thespians, but come , surely you would not refuse some refreshment with us ? " Asked Dr. Sargle . " Very well but we cannot stay long. Truthfully we should not stay at all but still we would not like to seem unfriendly. " Agreed Teedol finally. Dr. Sargle led the trio into the centre of the circle where they were made feel most welcome. A seat was brought for each of them from two caravans. Each of the friends was handed a drink in a very small glass, no bigger than thimbles.

" Do not judge the contents by the size of the receptacle my friends. This drink will make you feel cool when you are hot and warm when you are cold. " Said Dr. Sargle with a smile. Spud, being the most adventurous, tried the drink first. Placing the glass to his lips, he gingerly took a sip. At first there was no hint of pain or pleasure. Spud's face remained deadpan for some moments. Slowly his eyes began to roll, his lips separating, becoming broader until they finally broke but into a huge smile . He tried to speak but as he uttered his first words, the air was let out in one go. " Wwwoooooowwwwwww ! That's some drink. Just what is needed on a journey such as ours. " Said Spud finally managing to speak properly. " Good I'm glad you like it. If your friends also like it, you may each have a bottle to take with you. " Said Dr. Sargle with a broadening smile. Convinced it was safe to drink, Teedol and Bobo sank their beverages with much the same effect.

The companions spent a little more time with the troupe of players, during which an old lady called Teedol to her side. Walking over to her, he studied her with interest. Her face was wrinkled and wizened, yet kindly. Her eyes were deep and dark, yet wise. Upon her head was a purple kerchief bounded by a string of gold coins which dangled and jingled as she moved her head. Her torso was covered with long flowing pieces of silk which hung all the way down to her feet. About her shoulders, she wore a black shawl. Her long spindly fingers held an old discoloured clay pipe. Teedol sat calmly by her side.

" I see you have many troubles on your mind. I also see you will be of great importance, but not to yourself. You have many trials to overcome before you reach your goal but if you use your head, you will not fail. BUT, I must give you a very important warning ; TRUST NOT IN TRUST, LEST FRIEND BE FOE ! " Said the old woman sternly. " I don't understand what you mean. Can you explain ? " Asked Teedol with a puzzled expression.

" I can tell you no more, you must seek the answer yourself. I think you should now make your excuses and leave, for you have many miles to go before you reach your destination. " She said in a very soft whisper.

" Your true destination. " She added with a wink. Teedol smiled at the old lady and without any thought, he stood up and walked over to Dr. Sargle.

" Excuse me Dr. Sargle, I do not wish to be ungrateful b - but we must get going now. " Said Teedol.

" I understand and you did say you could not stay long. I do hope you have a safe journey. "

There followed the usual farewells by all present. Dr. Sargle did not forget his promise, giving each of them a flask telling them to use it wisely, as it would give them stamina when all else failed. The companions were once more on their way. " We have no more than an hour of light left. By that time, if we hurry, we should reach the point where we have to turn off the track. I hope we can find some cover when we leave the track, in some shrubs or whatever. " Said Spud.

Not another word was spoken. It was not known where the extra energy came from, but the speed of the trio doubled with a new determination. Still far off to the north-east the ever growing cloud of doom could be seen. It had grown, seemingly much closer. This caused Teedol more concern than before as they started travelling. They had been moving on a parallel course. Teedol rightly thought, the cloud should not be getting any larger , unless it was growing bigger. This helped drive Teedol on with more determination.

The moon was now in its first quarter, though it was low in the sky, it still offered some light, for which the companions were grateful.

It was almost an hour and three quarters since they had left Dr. Sargle and company. Though the light was poor Spud noticed the track swung sharply to the right, away from the Red Mountains.

" Here is where we must change direction, but before we leave the track, we must be sure nobody sees us. " He said whilst looking around. Teedol and Bobo did likewise, looking and listening in all directions. No-one could be seen or heard. About one hundred and fifty yards away towards the plain the dark shadow of a large clump of bushes could be seen. Spud suggested, if they could reach it, it would provide them with shelter for the night, making it more difficult for them to be seen by anyone travelling on the track. All agreed and with a last look the three friends made a dash. They had just reached the bushes, disappering from sight when the sound of a galloping horse could be heard. Teedol and Bobo sank deep into the bushes, while Spud peered through the foliage. The poor light should help protect him from being seen, he hoped ! What he saw caused him no concern. A rider dressed in black, mounted on a black horse was too far off to be recognised, especially in the poor light.

Spud doubted he would be able to see much more had the rider been closer. One thing was apparent though, the rider, whoever he was, was in a great hurry.

The rider turned his horse towards the shrubs where the friends were hiding ... HAD HE SEEN THEM ?.. HOW ? Spud pulled back into the undergrowth, his heart pounding in his head. He managed to tell the others what was happening, as they sank deeper into the cover of the bushes. It seemed as if their hearts were beating a million beats a second. The loud thumping in their chests resounded in their heads , and yet over what seemed like an immense noise, they could hear the sound of their own breathing as if it were amplified a thousand fold. Each tried to hold their breath, with fear gripping at their hearts. They were sure the rider would hear them. Who could he be ? What did he want ? How did he know they were there ? With these thoughts running through the minds of the three friends, they felt a sense of panic, the horse and rider now getting closer with every breath. They were convinced he knew where they were. Would he get the horse to trample them ? The friends were huddled up with their eyes closed. Nothing only silence. Spud opened his eyes and looked up. He could see a great black shadow looming above him. It seemed to hang suspended in mid air like the dark shadow of death. He held his breath and waited for the fatal blow... NOTHING !.. Still nothing. Seconds passed like hours. Spud had buried his head under his arms and closed his eyes again. Gingerly he opened them again expecting to see, or rather to feel sudden pain as he was struck...

LIGHT ! Light was all he could see. He could not believe his eyes. Slowly he turned to look behind. The black rider was speeding off, deep into the plains. The horseman grew smaller and smaller, there was a heavy sigh of relief from Spud.

" The rider has gone ! " Exclaimed Spud.

" Wonder who he was ? " Asked Teedol.

" I don't know, but it seems strange. Everyone tells us to keep to the track, and off the plains, then a rider nearly kills us doing what we were told not to do. " Pronounced Spud.

Their nerves were still on edge as they had not yet recovered from the encounter with the eerie black rider. The friends remained silent and still for a little while longer. Finally, Spud peered out of the shrubs to make sure there were no other riders. Seeing all was clear, he spoke. " Well there is no sign of the black rider or anyone else for that matter. I think we should get further away from here. Which way should we go Tee ? " Asked Spud.

" I'm not sure, though the wizard said I would know when the time came. Said Teedol, who had noticed how quiet Bobo was.

" Are you alright Bobo ? " He asked.

" Oh ! Yes I'm fine. I... I was just thinking about Pippa, wondering if she is alright. " Said Bobo a little despondently.

" She'll be fine. I shouldn't wonder if she was safely on her way back home by now. " Interjected Spud. A short silence followed. " You seem to be spending a lot of time thinking of her, don't you ? " Asked Spud. " Yes, we got engaged today. Of course it's not official yet, but I do love her, and I think she loves me. " Said Bobo thoughtfully. There was no doubt Bobo was suffering from shock. He had never known feelings like these before. " I know she loves you. She told me long before I said anything to you, at my place. So, my friend, have no doubts. " Said Teedol reassuringly.
Bobo said nothing as he turned away gazing longingly at the stars, hoping he was sharing the same beauty at the same time as Pippa. For a few moments it seemed to make them that much closer.

" O.K. I think we should move on. We do need to get away from the track before light. " Said Spud. "I agree, but we must find somewhere to camp soon, I'm feeling so tired. " Replied Teedol. Wearily the trio set off again, heading deeper onto the plains, getting closer to the beautiful but dreaded Red Mountains of Erun. High above, the stars glittered and twinkled like gems in the coronet of Mother Earth.

It had been dark for some time now and the friends were feeling the worse for wear, tired, hungry and desperately wanting a hot drink if not a hot meal. They had not seen a suitable place to camp as the ground was so open . Then Bobo spotted a huge clump of bushes off to the right, about twenty yards away. " Hey look over there. That looks like a good place to camp. " Said Bobo enthusiastically. Cautiously they headed towards the bushes. By the time they had drawn close enough to see clearly a new surge of energy ran through their bodies. What caused the excitement was the discovery of a near perfect circle. They entered and found it to be a ideal camp site.

" Bobo can you sort out some food ? Tee if you will set camp I will find some firewood. " Said Spud enthusiastically.

All the companions agreed with the chores by nodding and set about their tasks. Teedol lit the lamps and set about making the beds with sleeping bags and grass. Bobo sorted out some food with which he could make a piping hot meal. Spud returned within ten minutes with some firewood. Some twenty minutes later they were all eating a hot meal which was eased down their throats by a hot drink. The sleeping bags were set about the camp fire in a triangular manner making all three friends the same distance from the warmth . True it was summer but on the plains the heat of the day seemed to drift away, only to return, with vengeance when the noon day sun was next in the sky. Hardly a word was spoken as the three friends devoured their first hot meal for a good many hours. The stops made were few, the meals sparse, certainly by comparison to a normal day's eating for cotchit's. The meal finished the friends chatted for a while, making sure they kept away from subjects which would cause fright.

Spud was used to camping out. He loved nothing more than to stare at the myriads of stars and wonder as another meteor streaked across the skies. The peace and tranquillity was all Teedol thought he would ever want. Slowly his mind came back from afar, to focus on what they should do next. Spud interrupted his thoughts.

" I think we should take it in turns to take watch. I'll do the first watch for three hours. Bobo, you do the next watch for two hours then Teedol can do the last two hours. Does everyone agree ? " Asked Spud.

" Fine by me. Do we keep the fire going ? " Asked Bobo.

" Yes, but keep it small. " Answered Spud. " Okay, I'm sure we can manage that between us. So if it's alright, I'm going to sleep now. I'm so tired. Good night. " Yawned Teedol as he curled up in his sleeping bag . It was not long before he was sound asleep. Meanwhile Spud and Bobo carried on talking, in a quiet whisper as they did not wish to wake their friend. " I must confess, I am afraid, though we seem to have kept in front of those terrible things chasing us. The trouble is, we know nothing of what lies in front of us. I think there is much to fear ahead. " Said Bobo with concern.

" I agree with you, but we must appear strong and unafraid for Teedol's sake. After all, it seems to me he has the greatest battle to fight. We must be his strength when his fails. " Said Spud in a matter of fact sort of way.

" I understand but I mean it must be a terrible burden to know that every life in Earth is in your hands. It is a heavy burden as you say. I mean, if we should die, the loss would affect our close friends, but if he should die, everyone, even those who don't know him, would be affected. Anyway to change the subject, I must find time to thank him for introducing me to Pippa. " Bobo added.

" There's an idea. All you have to do is think of Pippa sorting out your cottage ready for your return. I guess that is what she is going to do. It is tradition after all. " Answered Spud.

" Do you think she will be okay ? " Asked Bobo.

" I'm sure she is fine. If she is not home by now. I should think she will be by tomorrow. " Replied Spud. Bobo seemed to drift off into a world of his own, somewhere deep within his own mind. The fact his thoughts were pleasant was plain to see, when a smirky grin appeared on his face. Spud thought it better to leave his friend with his thoughts, while he went back to the vastness of time and space. It was as if he were floating out there with those countless points of light which could well be other worlds just waiting to be discovered...

Three hours later Spud woke Bobo, gently shaking him.

" Sorry old chum, it's time to start your watch. Will you be alright ? " Asked Spud. " Eh, uh, yeah yeah, I'll be fine. I just need something to drink. " Replied Bobo still half asleep. " I have put a hot drink down beside you, so don't knock it over. Now I must say good night. So GOOD NIGHT. " Said Spud as he turned and stepped over to his sleeping bag. Slipping between the warm welcoming layers he pulled the covers high around his neck and was soon beyond the land of dreams. Bobo had returned the good night whilst picking up his drink. The rest of the night passed without incident. Bobo did not wake Teedol for his watch, he thought he looked so peaceful... It was now five in the morning. The sun would soon be up.. . Bobo put some water into the billy can to make some tea. He knew Teedol would not be pleased at not being woken to do his watch, but Bobo thought he would cross that bridge when he came to it. Besides it was done now and nothing could alter it. With the tea made he woke

Teedol first. " Uh... Is it time for my watch ? " Asked Teedol with a start.

" No, it... it's time to get up. I was not tired, so I did not wake you. " Said Bobo sheepishly. " You must not do that. I must take my turn , besides I know why you did not wake me. " Said Teedol knowingly.

Bobo then woke Spud.

" Spud... Spud. It's time to get up. Here's a drink." Said Bobo gently shaking him as he did so. " Okay thanks. What time is it ? " Asked Spud. " It's about five a.m. and the sun is almost up. " Bobo said, thinking perhaps they should be moving soon. Bobo had spotted some wild mushrooms, so off he went to collect them. Spud, meanwhile, had built up the fire putting on a pan with fried bread and eggs. Teedol started to tidy up the camp site making sure no rubbish was left behind. Bobo came back adding the mushrooms to the now sizzling pan. The light of dawn could be seen quite clearly as the sun peered over the mountains with a deep red glow, making the ranges look as if they were full of fire.
The mountains took their name from the highest peak, which was called Mount Erun. Its name translated meant The Red Mountain, getting its name from the rising or the setting of the sun over it. The sun climbed ever higher. The colours and hues filled the sky with purples, reds, oranges and yellows.

Now feeling much brighter, the trio were soon on their way once more. Making sure the fire was out properly and that no rubbish had been left.

They travelled for some miles and had stopped twice at three hour intervals . They had noticed nothing out of the ordinary, not even the fact they were being watched from high above. There were several hours left before dark and they were very pleased with the progress that day. Perhaps it was the fact the day had gone so well they were beginning to think the stories they had heard, were just that - "stories". It was then Spud noticed several bushes some distance in front of them. True they had passed many such bushes, perhaps it was instinct which told him these were not the same. It wasn't anything he could see, more something he felt strongly. To the left and right of the bushes were trees.

" Okay there are a few trees on the plains but ! " Something was bothering him.

" Wait here I want to go ahead and check something out. " He said holding up a hand. He raised his nose into the air and began taking great sniffs. Cotchit's did have a very keen sense of smell, but Spud's was better than average. Neither Bobo nor Teedol questioned Spud's actions, after all they knew that he was good at his job. It was for that reason he had such a good reputation.

Spud moved forward cautiously, sniffing and searching the ground for clues . Being a wood dweller had its uses, but the smells were not the same. Spud knew there was a smell he should know, yet he could not figure it out . It was different, but it had a familiarity to it. What was it ? By now Spud had reached the first outcrop of bushes. They seemed alright, so he beckoned the others to join him as quickly and quietly as possible. They did. Holding up his hand so the others would not follow, he moved on again .

He was now some fifty yards in front of the others. Teedol and Bobo were crouched in the bushes watching. Spud had stooped to the ground and put an ear to it. He knew he had heard something, so he listened more intently. Yes ! There it was again. Suddenly Spud realized the noise was coming from BEHIND ! He jumped up quickly spinning around as he did so. Teedol and Bobo were out in the open, but that was not all. They were being held by DWARVES ! Spud started running, charging as fast as he could towards the dwarves. At the precise moment he came into range he jumped into the air, thrusting his feet forward towards the dwarf holding Teedol. The blow landed squarely on the chin of the dwarf which in turn sent Teedol's captor sailing through the air backwards. His flight brought to an abrupt halt when his head hit the thickest part of a tree trunk. There was a cracking sound followed by a sickening thud. The dwarf sank to the ground completely oblivious of anything going on around him. A broken branch fell on top him. Spud meanwhile had landed on his feet and was about to strike out at the dwarf on the other side of Teedol, when he was suddenly overcome by four other dwarves who seemed to appear out of nowhere . Under the weight Spud sank slowly at first, and then with a thump. The largest dwarf sat squarely on top of the poor cotchit's stomach. Two others held his arms. The last one sat upon his legs. It was becoming more difficult for Spud to breathe. The other dwarf, who had been holding Bobo , went over to the still unconscious dwarf, who was sprawled out in a manner rather like a rag-doll. He tended the dreamy faced dwarf by slapping and shaking him, in an effort to bring some sense, or senses back to him. He in turn, slowly showed signs of coming around. Slowly and somewhat awkwardly he began to pull himself together, his attendant pulling him into a sitting position. The semi-conscious dwarf let out a groan as he began to rub his head. The great lump sitting on top of Spud sensed that the cotchit was finding it difficult to breath and so moved, taking care so the cotchit could not escape. The injured dwarf now stood glaring at Spud. Slowly, having just regained his feet, he walked over to the insolent dog who had dared to attack him.

" GET HIM ON HIS KNEES ! " He barked.

" NO ! We must not harm them. We have orders from Lord Gryzor. " Said a second dwarf.

" Who in Earth will know ? This.. this little pipsqueak knocked me out ! I have lost face, it would be different if he were a Warrior but he is not. So I will take his life and spare my disgrace. " Said the injured dwarf.

" But we have strict orders from Lord Gryzor himself. " Said the other dwarf.

" I am in charge here, and I say he is too dangerous to risk taking back to camp. NOW GET HIM ON HIS KNEES ! THAT'S AN ORDER ! " Growled the injured dwarf.

" You heard Globin. Do as he says, but on your head be it. " Said the second dwarf finally. The dwarf known as Globin came striding over to where Spud was kneeling, drawing his sword as he did so. It was a vicious looking thing with a long curved blade. Globin had captured it from an ghedi orc general in battle. He now examined the blade to make sure it had a keen edge, ready for the job he had in mind for it. He smiled at Spud menacingly as he drew the blade high above his head. Teedol and Bobo were being held by yet more dwarves. Spud could not figure out how he had passed so many without seeing them, but then this was hardly the right time to figure that out. The second dwarf tried to turn Globin's mind away from the deed he was about to perform, but to no avail. Globin took two large steps forward. The cotchit was either brave or stupid as he neither moved, nor made a sound. Teedol and Bobo could not believe this was happening and more-over, they could do absolutely nothing about it. Staring at the sword , they were sure it was starting to descend. At first, it seemed almost imperceptible but, yes, it was now gathering momentum moving towards the neck of their friend and guide...

Bobo could stand it no longer. He screamed falling unconscious. Teedol's eyes could not have looked any stranger had they been stuck on stalks...

There was a sudden clang of steel upon steel. Globin's sword was sent flying though the air, landing in the bushes from which its owner had not long ago been pulled. Standing by the side of Globin was the black rider, still with sword in hand.

" What do you think you are doing ? Those were not the orders of Lord Gryzor . Waste no more time, take all of the prisoners back to camp. " Barked the black rider. " S - sorry General Bulfin, but... " Stammered Globin who was interrupted. " No more talk. Do as I say. You may get the chance to explain to Lord Gryzor. " Said the black rider as he turned and walked back to his mount. Teedol and Spud were bound by their hands. Bobo, who was still unconscious, was unceremoniously thrown over the shoulder of the stoutest dwarf. The black rider no longer in sight. The march to the dwarves camp took two hours and was quite uneventful, except for Bobo coming around only to be bound in the same fashion as the others. The trio were by now feeling rather hungry, not to mention tired. Eventually they were shown into a huge tent with a guard placed at the doorway. They were left unattended for a short time. The three friends busied themselves with looking at the many interesting objects scattered here, there and everywhere. Bobo was still surprised at Spud being alive, though needless to say, he was overjoyed at the discovery. He was about to speak when a portly looking dwarf entered the tent. He was clearly a chief, or someone of high rank, due to all the adornments which were hung about his person.

" I am Lord Gryzor, leader of all dwarves. Please be seated gentlemen. " Gryzor sat down in the centre of the tent perching himself on top of a huge pile of cushions, bellowing.

" BRING ME THAT WORTHLESS WRETCH GLOBIN ! " Teedol was about to ask a question. He made the first sound but Gryzor held up his hand in a gesture to be silent. Moments later Globin came scurrying in bending low. When he reached a position in front of the lord of all dwarves, he fell to his knees not daring to look up at his lord and master. Gryzor turned to Teedol .

" All we need do now is to find a worthy death for this worthless creature. HOW shall he die ? " Asked Gryzor, looking at Teedol.

Link to Chapter Five

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