First there was the Red Amulet, its ruddy light staining their faces as if with blood. This was Hawkmoon’s strength, giving its owner more than natural energy. Then there were the crystal Rings of Mygan which could transport those who wore them through the dimensions. These were their passports back to their own space and time. Beside the rings was the scabbarded Sword of the Dawn. In this lay Hawkmoon’s army. And finally, wrapped in a length of cloth, there was the Runestaff, Hawkmoon’s standard and his hope.

Count Brass cleared his throat. “Even with all these powerful objects can we defeat an Empire as great as Granbretan?”

“We have the security of our castle,” Oladahn reminded him. “From it we can go through the dimensions at will and return at will. By this means we can fight a prolonged guerilla action until we have worn down the enemy’s resistance.”

Count Brass nodded. “What you say is true, but I am still doubtful”

“With respect, sir, you are used to fighting classic battles,” D’Averc reminded him. D’Averc’s pale face was framed by the collar of a dark leather cloak. “And you would be happier with a direct confrontation, drawn up in ranks of lancers, archers, cavalry, infantry and so on. But we have not the men to fight such battles. We must strike from the dark, thereforefrom behind, from cover at least initially.”

“You are right, I suppose, D’Averc.” Count Brass sighed.

Bowgentle poured wine for them all. “Perhaps we should get to our beds, my friends. There is more planning to do and we should be fresh…”

Hawkmoon strode to the far end of the table where the maps had been laid out. He rubbed at the Black Jewel in his forehead. “Aye, we must plan our first campaigns carefully.” He studied the map of the Kamarg. “There is a chance there is a permanent camp surrounding the place where Castle Brass stoodperhaps waiting for its return.”

“But did you not feel that perhaps Meliadus’s power is waning?” D’Averc said. “Shenegar Trott seemed to think so.”

“If that is the case,” Hawkmoon agreed, “then it is possible that Meliadus’s legions are now deployed elsewhere, since there seems to be some sort of contention at the Court of Londra as to whether we are very important as a threat or not.”

Bowgentle made a movement to speak but then cocked his head to one side. Now they all felt a slight tremor run through the floor.