“Will,” he said, holding out a hand. “You’ve grown more rotund since last time I saw you.”
The old man shook warmly. “And you’ve grown into a man who should know better than to mock an elder.”
The two of them laughed, Will slapping Cam on the back. “What brings you here?”
“We need to get to Kirrin Island.”
Will’s smile faded. “There’s nothing out there for you.”
“Nonetheless, we need to get there.”
“I see. Then you better come with me, you and your friend.”
The crowd parted to let them through. “Have you heard of the barefoot man?” Cam asked as they walked down to the boathouse on the shore.
“Aye,” Will replied. “I’ve heard tales of him.”
“Do you not fear him?”
Will shook his head. “Come, you have time to break bread with me before you row out there. You will find no food on the island.”
“We will be fine.”
“Would you deny an old man his request?”
Cam sighed. “Very well, but make it quick.”
They turned from the boathouse and up the street to a large two story stone house. Will stopped in front of it, pulling the door open. “After you.”
Cam let Rachel go first, following her in. There was another door creating a porch. He followed her through that. The door slammed shut behind them. He turned, trying to push it open again but it was firmly bolted in place.
“What are you doing?” he asked, shouting through the wood.
“I’m awfa sorry,” Will replied. “He only let us be if we swore to lock up any who tried to cross to the island.”
“You are in league with him?” Cam slammed his fist into the door.
“Save your strength. I will have food brought to you while we await his arrival.”
Cam turned to Rachel. “You have time. Take the necklace. Save yourself.”
“You don’t get rid of me that easily. Is there another way out?”
They examined the inside of the house but it had been effectively turned into a prison. The windows were barred, the walls nothing but stone. All objects had been removed. There was nothing they could do but wait.
Cam peered out of the window that faced the shore. The island was visible in the distance. They were so close and yet so far from it. “What if the thief was lying?” he asked. “What if he only said that to get us here?”
“Why give me the necklace then?” Rachel countered. “I think I can get us out of here. When they bring the food, let me do the talking. Okay?”
Cam nodded. “What will you do?”
There was a scrape at the door and they turned in time to see it opening. A guard stood there. “Against the back wall,” he said, not moving.
Cam and Rachel did as he asked, leaning against the wall as he brought in a loaf of bread and a jug of ale. He set them on the floor and turned to go without another word.
“Hold on,” Rachel said, pulling a black object from her pocket. “If you do not release us, I shall trap your soul in this.”
The guard frowned. Cam tried to see what she was holding but could not work it out. The object beeped and then lit up. “What is that?” Cam asked.
