What Now?

"What if these were somehow sent from the future as a warning?" said Astra. "I agree that it is far more likely that these statues are mere illusions, yet I have heard of philosophers who spoke of the possibility of changing the past."

"That is nonsense," said Fred. "Everyone knows that the past cannot be changed."

Exotica, who had secretly studied much more deeply into magic and esoteric philosophy than was considered proper for an Allarian woman, knew much more about the ins and outs of debate about the possiblity of changing the past and when it would be prudent to try to counteract omens of the future. She also knew enough magic to think of a slim possibility for counteracting the anti-leaving spell. But while she would have no problem confiding such things to Astra, she would not do so to Fred. While he was a good man, he was regrettably distrustful of magic. And her idea was also incredibly risky. So Exotica simply said, "I agree that these are most likely illusions. Nonetheless, it is regrettable that we cannot leave the caves, or at least send out some kind of warning so that future dragonslayers will know what they're up against. The Dragon was much more powerful than we expected."

1. The four heroes move on, uneasily.
2. The four heroes begin to argue.
3. Exotica decides to mention her idea after all, despite its riskiness.

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