Sokhal’s Star glowed in Kenrad’s hand as he held the pendant up. Come on, Kenrad. Blumgar muttered aloud. Time to fall back, lad. What’s he waiting for? Merkyn looked back at the Erramic archers spread out among the Hiagh wagons. If he doesn’t get out of the way, he’s going to get shot! The light of Sokhal’s Star went out. Kenrad staggered, sinking to his knees. As he fell, Pratha left his side and glided down the slope, muscles rippling under her fur. With an angry roar the Sand Cat made her presence known. Kenrad! Blumgar lunged forward with Merkyn right behind. Heedlessly they charged down the slope. Kenrad was lurching back to his feet. Pratha had the lead pirate by the throat. As they struggled on the ground, turning and twisting, the second pirate ran up screaming and bellowing. Sword in hand, he loomed over the writhing bodies of man and cat. The pendant in Kenrad’s hand spat out a tongue of light and the pirate burst into flame. His screams silenced everything else.