This is a matter of Yolara and of Lugur and the Council; yes, even of the Shining One! And the message was sent--and the fate, mayhap, of all Muria rested upon your obedience and the return of Lakla with these strangers to the Council.

Now truly is my heart wrung, for there are few I would less like to see dance with the Shining One than you, Serku," he ended, softly.
Livid now was the gateway's guardian, his great frame shaking.
"Come with me and speak to Yolara," he pleaded.

"There came no message--tell her--" "Wait, Serku!" There was a thrill as of inspiration in Rador's voice.
"This _corial_ is of the swiftest--Lakla's are of the slowest.

With Lakla scarce a _va_ ahead we can reach her before she enters the Portal.

Lift you the Shadow--we will bring her back, and this will I do for you, Serku." Doubt tempered Serku's panic.
"Why not go alone, Rador, leaving the strangers here with me ?" he asked--and I thought not unreasonably.
"Nay, then." The green dwarf was brusk.