Read The Guardian Chronicles: Book 03 - The Dark Tide for Free Online Page A

learning.  The truth was not as clear to her as it was to the others.  It is hard after serving with someone for millennia to change your opinion of them.  The evidence was just not enough for her.
    “Yes, and you had best accept the fact that Kana has not betrayed only you!  She has sold us all out for her own selfish desires!” blasted Lord Keb darkly.  He had little patience for Necia and her misplaced sympathies.  The atmosphere around them darkened noticeably as he looked her in the eye.  His focus was sharp now and he was able to maintain his human form.  His eyes turned dark brown as he glared at her.  There was real hatred in the look her gave the fire guardian.
    “Keb makes a good point…albeit a little too harshly.  Kana has left us and is intent on ridding the world of this council and those who we support.  It is best if we all come to terms with that.”  Adair looked around at each of his guardians to make sure that they each understood.  His gaze rested on Necia a little longer to make sure she understood fully.  His eyes narrowed menacingly for a moment and then he looked away.  I may have to deal with her soon.  I will not let another council member leave!
    “I am sorry my lords…please continue” replied Necia ruefully.  She still did not completely believe what she was being told, however she knew that the right side in this unpleasant affair was with the guardian and the council.  She felt that she should not give up hope that Kana was a lost cause.  They may actually be telling the truth so I will stay with them for now.  I just cannot give up on Kana…she would do the same for me if our roles were reversed.
    “As I was saying, after quite some time of watching and waiting, I made my move.  When I was sure that Kana was gone, I entered the prison that held our friend Keb.  I immediately sensed the presence of the dark lord and bound him fast before he detected my presence.  There were a few lingering spirits, but they vanished once I captured Drogan.  Lord Keb was in a pitiful state by this time, so I immediately sent him back here to begin his recovery.  I remained behind for a while to do some research.”  There was a rush to the explanation; however, it was clear that he was irritated with Necia.  He refused to look in her direction.
    “I want you all to know that Kana found out about the Orb of Nitesh and that is all.  She did not seem interested in our battle plans or any of your whereabouts.  I am ashamed because of my weakness…” Lord Keb was saying in a determinedly calm voice.  Darkness fell upon him as he sat there staring at the center of the table.  He began to lose his human form again.  It was as though a light was being dimmed.
    “You have no need to apologize…a druid or an immortal elf would have ended their lives after the first round of torture” interrupted the guardian kindly.  “You only gave up one secret in all those weeks of torment at Kana’s and Drogan’s hands.  I applaud your determination and loyalty.”  The entire council clapped loudly for their friend.  This gesture gave Keb his confidence back as he smiled at the guardians.  Even Necia was sincere in her show of appreciation.  His human form solidified once more.  He looked at the fire guardian with a sneer…he did not trust and would not no matter what his master said.
    “Thank you for your kind words my lord” replied Keb with a humble nod to Adair.
    “You are quite welcome…now on with my story” continued Lord Adair determinedly.  “I discovered from the magical residue left by Drogan and his minions a bit of what their plans were.  First, I learned that the vile wraiths escaped along with several small dragons, hydras, liche, shape shifters, and possibly a deadly leviathan.  Second, they were heading to the Land of Lonna to prepare for a water assault on the eastern part of Landen.  Finally, the dark lord has made his own secret plans to subvert