Titan crab shields

Within a few minutes Jasher and Drake came bounding out of the vegetation and sprinted across the sand. They held three black shields shaped like extremely rounded triangles. Drake wore a round steel cap and a breastplate that matched the shield. A dark, velvety cloak billowed behind Jasher.

The two seedmen leaped into the launch. The drinlings shoved off and then manned the oars. Grinning, Drake held out one of the shields to Farfalee.

“Titan crab,” she said, hefting it.

“I almost got killed by a titan crab,” Jason mentioned.

“Lighter than steel,” Jasher said. “And a good deal stronger.”

(Additional text cut)

“Facing grim peril should have some rewards,” Drake said, rapping his titan-crab breastplate with his knuckles. “The extra shield is for Lord Jason.”

Chapter 14