Chapter 10
Everyone was stunned into total silence. All of a sudden Jasmine ran forward, "John!" However, as she was running, she slipped. Mark ran forward and wrapped the small cut on Jasmine's hand. Lief looked for just a second. He and Barda then walked to John.
Mark's mind was reeling. How was John alive? They buried him. Even in the land of monsters and magic, it was impossible to come back to life. He helped Jasmine to her feet, and they walked on. John was smiling as they walked up. He ended the conversation he was having with Lief and Barda, shook Mark's hand, and hugged Jasmine. He then shook Barda and Lief's hand again.
Mark saw the handshake was hard, maybe too hard, but Lief and John laughed, but it seemed like John enjoyed it too much, causing Lief pain. They asked him how he was alive, and John said he must have been unconscious, and, when putting the grave back, they left holes so John could breathe. While they were talking, Mark noticed something. It was a small thing. It was a minor thing. It was a malicious glint that vanished in a second.
To other people, it was nothing. To Mark it was evidence, and Mark had enough evidence. Mark pulled his bow out and put an arrow on the string. "Get away from him," Mark announced calmly. Everybody turned and saw Mark aiming an arrow at John.
Lief said nervously, "Mark, put that down. When I gave you that bow, I did not mean this." John said with a bitter edge, "Put the bow down. Nobody wants to get hurt." Mark stood unwavering. He knew that if this went on longer, he would have to shoot because of the pressure. Nobody moved. John smiled then said, "You are not going to stop. Fine." John fell to the ground as a great mist that came from him formed. From that mist the Shadow Lord emerged. "You are smart Mark. But do not think for a moment you have won. Go over that ridge. The Lake of Tears is there. My plan is almost complete. Deltora and your world will bow to me." And with that, the Shadow Lord vanished, and John laid on the ground and moaned.