The silver serpent
is the key. You will see that one of the pieces is marked with a star.
Now when the whole is properly fitted together it will set inside that
square and the star will rest directly above the hidden spring. As you
have most at stake, it is for you to give to the world the last words of
the Rajah. Is your wit keen enough, and your courage high enough to
essay and conquer for the last time?"
As Garrofat ceased speaking, Bright-Wits glanced quickly at Azalia, and
the light he saw shining in her eyes would have spurred him to tempt any
fate at that moment. Trembling, but not from fear, the prince gravely
saluted Garrofat and accepted the task and all its conditions. Then, in
a voice that was calm and clear he asked, "Must I do this now?"
"Now. At once," hissed Garrofat. "Now, while thy guardian spirit is
gone."
Then for the first time Bright-Wits noticed the absence of Ablano, the
Brahman. Nor could he recognize the tall stranger standing beside
Azalia; his face muffled in a fold of his robe.
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