Amirantha looked at the librarian and said, “Is there any mention in the annals of any ties between such magic and the summoning or controlling of demons?”

The woman regarded the Warlock in silence for a moment, then said, “Demons are creatures of the other realms, beings not answerable to the laws and natures of our own world; we have almost no dealings with such practices. This is more the province of other orders, those who serve Sung the Pure or Dala, Shield of the Weak.

“They may have heard of some such knowledge, but I have not.” She looked at the High Priest. “Is there anything else, Holy Father?”

“I think not, Makela. I thank you for your knowledge.”

She rose, bowed slightly before the High Priest then moved toward the doorway where her aide waited. As she reached the door, she paused, turned, and said, “I have thought of one thing, though.”

“What?” asked the High Priest.

“A passing reference, nothing more. In ancient times a war was fought with a cabal of necromancers, which was strange for that; they tend to be solitary types.

“But it was their name that I recall now as being the thing most odd. They were the Demon Brothers.”

Amirantha said, “Is there more?”

“Only that they were called that.” She tilted her head slightly as she thought. “It was something I found odd, really.” She looked from face to face in the room as she said, “We always assumed it was simply a name, describing the cabal much as you might call them something evil. But the more I think on it, it may be more than this, for the accurate translation of that ancient name would be ‘Brothers to Demons.’ I hope this helps.” She nodded, as her assistant opened the door, and they departed.

The High Priest said, “Perhaps this is of some use to you?”

Pug said, “A great deal, perhaps.” He rose and Amirantha followed suit.

Gregori appeared and ushered them from the room and left them to their own devices in the large main hall of the temple. Jim asked, “What next?”

“Sarth,” said Pug. “The Ishapians are accommodating but not particularly helpful in this, but now we have something specific to investigate.”

“The Demon Brothers,” said Amirantha. “A very odd name for necromancers.” To Pug he said, “Do we need to advise those waiting for us at the island that we’re not returning soon?”

Pug said, “I’ll see to it after we reach Sarth.”

“Good,” said the Warlock. “Samantha grows very short with me when I fail to show up for meals on time.”

For the first time in recent memory, Pug laughed. Everyone in the temple turned and several of those before the votive candles stared, while some glared, for laughter was almost unknown in this place.

Jim said, “Now would be a fair time to depart, I think.”