---- 332.


    THE MAGIC PENDANT NARRATOR Quickly, take this boat across the eastern stretch of the river, and you ll reach the neighboring vige.


    Look for Joaquin at the only inn there.


    He should be about to leave with his trade caravan.


    Tell him youe in my name...


    Aldo was giving hurried instructions as they untied the knots securing the boat and prepared to push the small vessel down the ramp and into the water.


    Sheltered inside the old boathouse, Katherine watched them nervously, barely managing to slow her frantic breathing after their reckless sprint.


    For heavens sake, these men didnt even look like they had just spent half an hour running through the forest like mad dogs, while she felt like she was about to cough up her lungs.


    And to think she had supernatural bloodif she didnt...


    Push.


    With a dull thud and the ssh of water, the boatnded at the rivers edge.


    All that was left was one final shove to send it down the ramp.


    Katherine moved to help them; between the three of them, it would be quicker.


    Suddenly, Elliot beside her went rigid.


    He nced over his shoulder toward the dark entrance of the old boathouse, and without warning, he grabbed her wrist and shoved her ---- into a shadowy corner behind some barrels.


    Who''s there?! At the same time, an angry voice rang out, and the flickering light of a torch illuminated the face of an older man who entered with a stern expression.


    Rx, hes an ally, Aldo reassured with a sigh.


    The tension was thick, the atmosphere stifling.


    Old man, its me...


    he said, stepping forward to speak in hushed tones with the neer.


    Katherine made a move to leave her hiding spot, crouched behind the barrels, but her eyes met Elliots in the dim light.


    He subtly gestured for her to stay put.


    She remained hidden until, after a few minutes, Aldo approached them.


    Dont worry, Ive made a deal.


    Hes the ferryman.


    Hell get you safely to the other side, he said quietly to Elliot, though Katherine could hear him.


    But did he ask for payment? You cant just keep giving away your grain.


    Tts nothing, just a little...


    No, take this.


    I was going to give it to you for our expenses anyway.


    Elliot pulled a solid gold ring with a ruby stone from his inner pocket.


    It was highly valuable and could be sold for a small fortune in gold coins.


    Which was yet another testament to the honest nature of this man and his wifebecause they could have easily robbed them while they were unconscious.