The Well of Darkness

Escape from Eddarta - Bearing the Ra'ira, Raithskar's most sacred gem, Rikardon and Tarani flee a ruthless enemy across the burning deserts of Gandalara. Protected by the swordsman's mighty warcat Keeshah, and the mystic bird called Lonna who obeys the illusionist's commands, the two discover the smoldering passion they have long denied. But when Keeshah leaves them to fulfill an ancient mating ritual in the valley of the Sha'um, Rikardon and Tarani must risk death in the Well of Darkness to fulfill their destiny. (from the back cover of the Bantam Books first edition)