The Chronicles of Kale: Dawn of Retribution (Book 2) by Aya Knight Page A

would need to take caution and moderate the usage of magic.
    Illadar used a small knife to slice the Rattler’s nearly indistinguishable head from its limp body. He quickly tossed the head away, explaining that deadly venom could still be present. Using the tip of the blade, he continued to remove the serpent’s skin and gut the insides out.
    Kale closely inspected his hands upon Illadar’s command to ensure there were no punctures to his skin.
    It wasn’t long before the snake’s inner flesh turned a golden brown over the fire and they each enjoyed a helping of meat.
    With their bellies temporarily held over by the small portions, they each agreed to rest. They were confident enough in their pace to make up for lost time once waking. During the day, the sun seemed to suck the very energy from their bodies. As night fell, they knew it was the most opportune time to give in to the peaceful bliss of sleep, despite the colder temperatures. They allowed the fire to dwindle as to not draw attention to their location. They huddled near one another to discourage any snakes or other desert creatures from approaching as each fell into an instant sleep.

    Kale was awoken in the night to a firm shove against his ribcage. “What in Pan’s name. . .” He mumbled and rolled over to lift his weary body.
    Zandol, The Emerald Prince, huffed heavily before bowing his head. “I am glad to see you are well.”
    “I’d hardly call it that. Those abominations living underground have taken Neelan. We are in search of a clan to the south.” Kale brushed the sand from his shoulders. “So, might I ask why you’re here? I thought I have to summon you to me—yet, here you stand?”
    “You don’t enjoy my company?” Zandol laughed and lowered his massive body to the ground. “Use your human ears, dragon child. Upon the land where I fell, I may roam freely—however, should you need me, you may summon my presence. Truth be told, I have come to inform you that, should you continue in the same direction, you will head dramatically off course.”
    “But, we’ve been watching the suns location. I’m certain that we’re heading to the south,” Kale firmly replied.
    “That you are. Though, if it is their leader you seek, you will need to make way to the southeast. The camp you are currently heading toward does serve as the home to many of the Imbola Clan bandits. However, if it is their leader, Beshin, you seek you’ll need to alter your course.”
    Kale didn’t bother to question Zandol’s knowledge of their location. As a spirit dragon, he could move across the entire desert effortlessly, and Kale was confident in the information given. He wanted to be grateful for the help, but couldn’t help but feel discouraged. The time it would take to reroute their course, easily added another day of travel by foot. He ran a hand through his hair and looked to the sky.
    Neelan, I promise we will be together again—soon. I will make it to their leader and bring him back, no matter what the cost.
    “You should go now, Firehart. If your female companion’s time runs short, every moment is valuable. Don’t let her end up like me. . .” Zandol faded away into the darkness.
    Kale felt surprisingly well rested for the unknown amount of sleep he had. He shook Thomas and Illadar awake, enduring the foul words spat his way from the two men as they sleepily struggled to sit upright. He informed them both of the newfound information and urged the need to move forward.
    Thomas stood and dusted off his robes. “We’re going to teleport.”
    Kale and Illadar stared at Thomas with dumbfounded expressions.
    “You’re gonna’ end up killin’ yourself, old man. Don’t do somethin’ foolish.” Illadar shook his head in disapproval.
    “I shall be fine. My body feels rested, and my belly is satisfied. Now is the most opportune moment before I expend my energy walking. I can’t bring us directly to the Imbola Clan’s location, though I can get us