‘Look at it from Zanthe’s point of view,’ Dion said. ‘Tanus started working the mines when Cinder Fen was a dangerous place. The people of Tanus know that if they lose the mines, they will become poorer. Without a harbor, Tanus has few resources. Zanthe has the popular support of her citizens. Even if she wanted to, even if I begged her, she couldn’t agree to let you have them.’

‘You are telling me nothing I don’t already know. And you wonder why we fight?’

‘Eiric . . .’ Dion said slowly. ‘Have you ever thought of buying them from her?’

Eiric’s fierce expression shifted to a puzzled frown.

‘Sindara has a wealth of gemstones. You once gave me a pouch yourself, and I remember you saying that they’re easily found, if you know where to look.’

‘She would accept that?’ Eiric asked.

‘If you gave her a settlement, it would allow her to save face, and she would be able to lavish the proceeds on her people. You might even be able to establish regular trade, benefiting you both. Tell me, were you ever in danger of losing any of your skirmishes? Were the soldiers of Tanus a serious threat?’

‘No. Not at all.’

‘The price might not be as high as you think.’

Eiric looked away, scratching his sharp chin pensively. He finally sighed, turning back to face Dion. ‘I’m sorry, Dion. I should have come to you.’

‘I’ll help to restore peace between Sindara and Tanus. But for now . . .’ Dion’s face became grim. ‘We have an enemy to face.’

‘We may have an ally,’ Eiric said. ‘On our way here, we saw a mighty fleet. Thirty or more ships flying orange-and-yellow flags were sailing toward the Aleuthean Sea.’

Dion looked up sharply. ‘Kargan. He’s trying to take back Malakai.’

‘Does he know what he will be facing?’

‘He may be aware, or he may not. Either way, I’m sure he could use our help.’ Dion put out his hand. ‘You and I, King Eiric. Shall we fight together?’

‘My friend,’ Eiric said, clasping his palm. ‘I think we shall.’

Dion was crouched next to Chloe, holding her hand. Lying on a blanket on the sand, she was mumbling in her sleep.

‘The wind,’ she whispered. Her face looked pained as she twitched. When she shuddered and her voice grew louder, he finally decided to shake her.

‘Chloe. Chloe!’

She opened her eyes. Her irises were entirely black. But then she blinked, and in an instant they were again a soft shade of brown.

‘Dion?’ Her face was pale as she looked up at him. ‘I was having a terrible dream.’