Darin retreated quickly into an alcove and listened carefully to the voices within the chamber. "He is not here," said a voice, its tone low and raspy. "Clearly. It appears that the commander of the guard spoke the truth before he met his end. Darin has gone to Deren." "No matter; he is inconsequential. Without access to this chamber, he cannot communicate with the Water Lord. His plans have been disrupted..." "What do you suppose the fool was planning..." "Treachery. There can be no doubt. He brought this destruction on the armies. You were wise to have us watch him."