Read Online The Guardian Chronicles: Book 03 - The Dark Tide by Steven R. Burke - Free Book Online Page A

not want to be on the wrong side again and were easily persuaded to join the cause.  They have promised me to protect the Forest of Renshaw from the axis powers.  I have explained to them who exactly they are to prevent from entering…they are to kill any of those I identified to them as the enemy if they should stray into the woods.”  He could not help but feel a certain measure of pride at his own brilliance.  He had been able to twist the creatures that many have distrusted, and rightly so, for thousands of years into doing his bidding.  They will actually be helping others for once in their existence.
    “I do not wish to question your decision my lord, but what assurances do we have that they will distinguish between the allies and the axis powers?  They have shown no regard for either in the past.”  The king had a timid look on his face as he said this because the guardian was the most powerful being in all of Tuwa.  He did not want to get on the wrong side of such a powerful person; however, he simply could not believe what he was being told.  The tragic death of his youngest daughter had caused him to doubt more than he would have normally and his deep seated hatred for their inaction in the death of his wife had made it impossible for him to ever trust them.
    “I understand your concerns.  I have made an agreement that will ensure they do not do the very things you just described.  I believe that I have motivated them sufficiently for the time being.  Do not be afraid to express your concerns to me or the other guardians…we are obviously not without faults.  However, the Seda will not break their agreement with me…I promise you that.”  His steely, yet kind look told the elven king that he could trust what was being promised.  He just needed to trust Lord Adair to keep those vile apparitions in line.
    “Say no more my lord.”  The king bowed his head again in humility before the towering figure of Lord Adair.  His white goatee was luminous from the light filtering through the swirling mist.
    “As of right now the orc army that was led by General Tomo is no more.  They have been completely destroyed thanks, in large part, to the Seda.”
    “That is great news!”  The elven king felt real relief for the first time since the untimely death of his beloved wife all those years ago.  The Seda have done the impossible…that does not mean they are forgiven.  After this war has ended, I will do whatever it takes to remove them from my forest!
    “It is good news, but this victory will be a rare occurrence.  Kana will avoid the Black Forest from now on, so the Seda will not be able to assist us any further in large scale attacks.  However, now we can move some troops back into the forest where they will be protected.  I want the elves that are not fighting to return to their homes and work on producing supplies for their army.  I do not want everyone tucked away in Landen with no escape route.  The detachment you send back, along with yourself, will be responsible for irritating passing axis soldiers.  They will also establish a supply line from Renshaw to the western city of Shafrig that is on the cliffs of Landen.”
    “Excellent plan my lord!  Should I relay this information to Kings Angus and Leroy?”  King Ciel was relieved by this news because it meant that he was going home.  This would provide his people with a significant morale boost and his troops would get supplies that are meant for elves.  They had struggled to adapt to the food the mortals ate.  They had never taken to the protein laden diet.
    “Do not worry yourself about that…I have already taken care of it.  They are aware of the changes I have ordered and of the amazing victory of Kylrilion.  Your concern now is your people and their safety.  Do not worry about the Seda…they have shown us their intentions and their devotion to the allies.  Good luck Ciel Tiranidrol.”  The guardian vanished with a