Eight: Vow and Nine: Forest Summary

King Lyam loudly refuses to allow either Arutha or Martin to go to Sarth in search of the antidote to Silverthorn. This is a ruse, followed by multiple impersonators leaving in many directions. They attempt to throw off those searching for Arutha and his party. Few know the true direction, and they try to prevent the evil one from finding them. Before they leave, Princess Carline insists on a public betrothal to Laurie, refusing to allow him to leave without a permanent understanding. This slows the leaving, as "A proper good-bye can take a while" (p. 144).

Reluctantly, Arutha allows Jimmy to join the party, for Jimmy will follow on his own. The party takes an oath of friendship, recognizing that they ride into danger. The little group of friends rides off in search of the...