The Burning Bridge

Will, Evanlyn, and Horace follow the Wargals to the Fissure, a huge abyss between cliffs that marks the border between Araluen and Morgarath’s realm. Although the Fissure is reputed to be impregnable, thus protecting Araluen from an attack, Will is shocked to see that Morgarath is building a bridge over the crevice. The enslaved Celts are forced to build the giant structure, and Will realizes that Morgarath’s army will be able to cross the bridge unimpeded. Horace points out that the letter they found detailing Morgarath’s plan did not mention the bridge. The three friends realize that the rebel lord meant for King Duncan to find the letter, tricking him into sending his army to the faraway Plains of Uthal instead. Will decides to investigate the other side of the bridge, where the enslaved Celts are digging out through the rock to enlarge a narrow passage. At the end of the work day, the Celt prisoners are led back inside, but one of them collapses and is left behind by the Wargals. As night falls, Will realizes that the man is still alive.