Page 2

Jilahd strode into the gathering place flanked by Sigurd and followed by ten of his Royal Guard whose bald heads and bared shoulders sported red tattoos of solid color. Feared by all but the foolhardy, the berserkers ensured the king's reign was safe from outside intrigues with fierce brutality and swift justice.
He claimed his seat which consisted of a large stone strategically placed among nearly a hundred others, ensuring that all the nobles had an equal voice in the proceedings.

"Halvard should have been here," Sigurd mentioned as other dukes of De Haan passed by, bowing to their king before claiming their own seat.

"He's on his way back," Jilahd also missed his son who had been spending most of his life in the Unechan Steppes and gaining prestige not only among his own family and people, but also the horsemen to the far east. Letters had been speaking of trouble from their southern neighbor, the kingdom of Gyangzi. "With fighting going on there, we may yet have more opportunities for our own warriors."

"More have joined him than you know." As they spoke, he noticed King Harald enter the arena and nod respectfully to him as the western king and his own entourage claimed their seats. Once most were present, Jilahd noted the white haired oracles claim their own collection of seats to his far right. Hismena also joined them, resting atop her own and held the respect of nearly everyone here.

During the course of the day, many guilty of a multitude of crimes were stripped of their rank and either banished or were slated for execution that evening. Each man giving a vote irregardless of rank or title and sealing the fate of the accused noble in question.
As charges were brought, Jilahd's mind drifted to a time, many years ago when he ventured to these very ruins to claim a necklace which allowed him to marry Anna instead of a distant cousin. A proud day for him as he pushed his mount back home with the prize. His grin was interrupted as Sigurd nudged him, which prompted the distracted king to notice the wrestling matches going on in the center of the open air audience chamber. Cheers went up for the victor as another bare chested opponent quickly stepped up to see who would be the last one standing.
Soon, Jilahd noticed King Harald stand over his own tankard and he lowered it in surprise as the younger warrior removed his armor and shirt, then turned and strode towards the previous victor confidently. Each grabbed the other's belt and once the elder yelled, "Go," the two men struggled against each other. As both pushed with their legs and tried to unbalance the other, Harald soon twisted his body and threw the other man onto the ground, light brown hair swirling in a long mass until quickly settling into the tall grass.

Jilahd smirked. He handed Sigurd his tankard, "I'll be back for that, so don't drink it".

"Hopefully not too quickly."

Smiling, the older king doffed his cloak, armor and shirt, then turned and walked towards the current victor.

"You're my elder," Harald stated. "I would hate to embarrass you before your men."

A stinging rebuke, thought Jilahd. "Not to fear, I passed my test of manhood long before you left your mother's breast. It's you that should be nervous." Though he had to appear confident before everyone, Jilahd knew that the younger king's energy and strength would be a good contest as they both wrapped their arms around each other's waist and grabbed their opponent's belt. He had done this many times before and knew a few tricks of his own though and maneuvered his right foot a bit forward as they waited for the signal.

"Go!"

Immediately, Harald tried the same twisting motion with all his might and Jilahd used the momentum to sidestep, then pull on his opponent's waist, then twist around to the left himself. Unprepared for the move, Harald tried to mimic the move himself, but was too late as Jilahd swung the younger king around and pushed him to the ground with a thump. Cheers went up from his own camp as his eyes soon caught sight of a unique pendant around the king's neck that rested now atop his beard. He leaned over and reached for the necklace as Harald immediately spun around and pushed himself up.

"Well fought," Harald congratulated, embarrassed as his reddened face turned and he walked towards his men.

"I've seen that emblem before," Jilahd stated which prompted the king to turn, steel-blue eyes narrowed in confusion. "Where did you get it?"

"My wife." As Jilahd moved closer, he noted Hismena joined him. Her white oak staff, polished and beautifully carved in her hand. "Why do you ask?"

A hand reached for the necklace but, Harald immediately covered the silver pendant with his left hand. "You will not allow me to admire her affections for you, cousin?"

"Let me see it," the oracle stated as the elder reached out a hand, palm up.

"It's nothing. Just a simple figurine," Harald turned and began to walk closer to his men. Suddenly, his body straightened as Hismena's fingers motioned to the young king, then spun him around as his strong body was lifted a few inches off the ground and drifted towards her, then stopped.

"I said, let me see it," she replied in obvious irritation, then reached up and pulled the necklace from his thick beard. Jilahd stepped closer and noted the rising sun hovering over two scythes, handles end to end with the blades each arcing downward to form what looked like fangs. "Interesting."

"I've seen this emblem before," Jilahd stated as he tried to sift through memories. While they pondered, more elders and nobles approached the hovering subject whose eyes now went wide in fear.

Hismena's light blue eyes rose, "How long have you supported these witches and necromancers?" Words that would undoubtedly bring chaos to the kingdom of Chatelet if things weren't handled correctly.

"I don't know what you're talking about," his voice now quivering. The once proud king was doomed.

Page 1

Taking a ladle from the water bucket, Arhus lifted the clear, inviting drink to his lips as sweat from the long day cascaded down his face. Life in Seridos for his forefathers had been this way and accepted by the race of slaves. Cooling his throat, he felt it race down into his body as he dipped the wooden cup into the bucket again. Sunlight pierced the darkened clouds on the horizon far to the west and painted the nearby, two-story, stone homes and barns a faint orange.

"You plan on sharing," the interrupting voice queried from behind and to the left as brown eyes turned to see his long time friend.

"Yaeby desires something his lady friend commands at will. Have you lost favor, friend? Sater I'm sure could fill that place at her side most readily," he smiled and handed the strong-willed but, kind man the next drink.

"Over my corpse," the solid man stated, grinning as his steel-grey eyes squinted in the evening light. Once downed, the farmer handed it back. "How much longer," he whispered.

Arhus shook his head, then dipped again as the pounding of horse's hooves alerted both to the front of their hovel. Bright red capes denoted their master's guard on the pair of riders who reined in as cold brown eyes glanced to them. By instinct, both men kneeled to the elves.

"What is my master's will," Arhus queried boldly.

"The fruit delivered to our lord wasn't ripe enough. Tell your bitch to deliver herself with a new barrel within the hour," the contemptuous reply. A comment which boiled Arhus' blood to the breaking point.

"I'll inform her, sir."

"Then be to it, slave!" A command that prompted Arhus to rise and sprint towards the glade where Elminoir spent most of her time. Nervous adrenaline grew with each step and he feared this summons may be the one that pushed his love to the brink of madness. Down the plowed hillside and into the thickly populated forest he ran, knowing that the impatient landowner would be less abusive with prompt action.
Soon, he noticed the blonde hair amidst the deep greens and browns as Elminoir rose and reached for her towel. Startled at the approach, her green eyes widened as he stopped nearby.

"Lord Klaes was unhappy with the apples. He demands another barrel... and you," he informed concernedly as light brown hair rose from the nearby river and he turned to notice Archantael who quickly covered herself.

"That's perposterous. They were as fresh....," she huffed as her eyes soon misted. Arhus knew the complaint was only another reason for debauchery.

"He can't be serious," their friend stated as she rose, uncaring of the male company as Arhus turned away. "This has to stop."

"How do you propose to do that," his anger welled as brown eyes spun back to the naked woman. "Keep your head about you, our time is near. I vow it."

"You've been spouting that for years and nothing's changed," the blue eyed beauty challenged as she reached for her simple woolen dress and pulled it on. "Time is coming when they'll pay for all the years of injustices."

"Archantael, keep that mindset for that day. Until then, keep your voice down," he scanned the nearby woods, then to his girlfriend as Elminoir finished dressing and sighed. "Not much longer," he placed a consoling hand on her forearm. "I promise."

"Easy for you," the tenderer of the lakes stated accusingly. "You're not the one he wishes to bed."

Tears burned Arhus' eyes as he looked back to her. "You think I enjoy this?! Justice will be served and all the lives these lands have claimed will rest when I run him through," he prophesied with quivering chin. "Mark me." A comment that cooled the air between them as she nodded quietly.

"I meant no offense to you, brother. You know that."

He sniffed and turned back to the quiet blonde whose only true love was nature and everything within. "Know that I love you. No matter where the days ahead may take us, nothing will break our hearts from one another." A heartfelt statement that prompted a kiss as he wrapped his arms around her in return.

* * *

Within the candlelit room, Arhus moved through the heavy air filled with the scents of cooking stew, burning wood in the central firepit and the incense that Sater always burned to compete with the stink of death and the dying that he had to deal with every day.

"Something troubles you, friend," the dark haired healer mused as Yaeby and Archantael rested on simple wooden stools to his left. "What is it?"

"The time is come," he stated as thoughts of Elminoir enduring the unwanted advances of their master kept flashing in his mind. "I've been talking to Bjarn and the weapons are nearly ready. He and his sons have been stockpiling them in various places and should be enough to get us started. The rest we'll take from the elves," his calm decisiveness sometimes unnerved them, he grinned.

Sater's brown eyes looked up as he stirred. "You sure we're ready? They have training on their side as well as organized numbers. I have to bury too many from disease alone as it is, you looking to fill our simple graveyard with more than it can contain?"

Arhus turned, "They've been killing us beneath their yoke for far too long. We have purpose and strength on our side, as well as principles. What more do we need?"

Grinning, the healer straightened. "Always the idealist," he glanced to the quiet pair as they awaited dinner. "Seridos may not have enough room for all this nobility."

"I'm fighting for love, for my friends and family and for the memory of our ancestors. I'm beginning to think that the pall of death fills your soul as well, friend. You can't afford to be fatalistic at this moment. Not now." He strode towards them, feeling his point was still lost in their desperation for change. "We have the tools and the numbers on our side. I've been assured that we'll know victory." A comment that gained their attention.

Sater rose and placed a hand on Arhus' strong shoulder. "You know I would fight at your side to the end. Nothing's kept us from defending one another," he continued as he glanced to their roommates, then back. "We've seen too much and as for my outlook on life, it's being around death every day that's kept me alive. You honestly think I enjoy seeing what they've done to us?" He shook his head as he backed and lowered his arm. "I dream of the day when I have a family of my own in a land free of elven stench."

Arhus leaned forward, serious eyes burning with determination. "You'll see that day, as will we all."

Page 2

Arhus awoke to the echoing chatter of crickets outside the shuttered window. Still dark, his worry for Elminoir kept slumber at bay; a fear that pushed him up as he swept the blanket aside and stood. Dim moonlight streamed into the modestly decorated, small room whose only bright spot were the flowers that she had planted within the windowbox that Yaeby had built. Moving to the door, he quietly pulled it open and stepped out into the main room which also lay still, the air thick with the acrid smell of a cold fireplace. He moved towards the front door and grabbed his coat, then pulled it on. She and Archantael were separated from the men in their own hovel across the beaten path which led towards their lord's palatial estate and rested in the northeastern corner. Commanding a low hill, he could overlook his lands from his study or a second story patio.

Once outside, he kept to the shadows as he crept across towards the small home whose large thatch roof commanded the stone walled base. Sentries patrolled the grounds but, rarely kept to the cluster of slave quarters. Anyone who tried to escape would be easily hunted for sport with dogs and mounted hunters. Elves were very adept at such things which allowed for a more open landscape free of walls. Nightvision also made them a very dangerous foe but, he had the experience of living among them and learning their habits.
Arriving at the front door which filled the extruding entrance, he quietly pushed it open and melted into the shadowy interior, then closed the door behind him. Scent of flowers filled the small home and kept a constant reminder of the wilds which she had also been forced to fill the master's various rooms with.
At her bedroom door, he hesitated. What if he had hurt her this time, he mused as a strong hand rested on the oaken door. Pushing his fears aside, he slowly entered and moved to her bedside, then knelt.

"Elminoir," he whispered as he reached out for her as she suddenly stirred.

"Arhus, what are you doing in here? If he catches you.."

"I don't fear him any longer. I just had to know that you were safe."

She chuckled lightly and relaxed as her soft hand rested on his cheek. "Fine. Sater and I concocted some potions that help a few months back. You can rest yourself."

He kissed her hand and spent several long moments with her before returning to his own bed.

The next morning, an explosion of activity awoke the farmer as guards rushed to him. Mailed hands grabbed Arhus and dragged him from his bed and across the floor as he quickly relaxed. Yaeby and Sater both glanced up to him, worried looks on their faces as the chain and leather garbed elves pulled their prisoner out into the morning light, then dropped his arms onto the dusty path. Brown eyes looked upwards to the glaring, sour face of Lord Klaes and prompted him quickly to his knees, face to the ground.

"My lord," he greeted nervously.

"Rumor has it that you feel the rules don't apply to you," the heavy voice accused. "That somehow you're above everyone else. Is this true?"

Arhus had to choose his words carefully. "I would never do anything against the common good, master."

"So, I'm a liar then? Is that what you're saying?"

"No, sir. I and my fathers have served my lord's house faithfully."

He spat onto the ground near Arhus as his horse stamped the ground and huffed. "You're a pitiful thing, how does she love you so strongly? Bind him." A command that prompted the guards to grab Arhus' hands and yank him upward, then towards the whipping post. Faintly, he could hear Elminoir sob as they tied his hands.

"Your favorite place, isn't it," one of the guards smiled as he backed.

If he was suffering for his love of the one whom their master wanted, he would endure every stripe. A determination quickly tested as the whip's bite seared across his back, then again.

"I tire of your disdain, slave." Crack. "I think you should also join the gravedigging crew," crack. "Your friend seems to enjoy burying those he can't save." Crack. "Losses I hold to his account, by the way." Crack. "Humans are such a waste of our air and space." Crack. "I'll never understand how such a base existence evolved." Crack. "Enough, I want him to be able to tend my harvest," Klaes commanded as he prodded his horse forward to stand beside Arhus. Leaning over, the master grabbed his hair and spun Arhus' brown eyes to face him. "Never think that you're better than I am. I can have all that you hold dear burned to the ground and lost forever, do you understand me? Once done, she'll still be licking my boots." He pushed the tear-filled eyes away, then straightened as Klaes reined his horse around and heeled it forward.

With each passing moment, tears of pain turned to anger as they untied his hands and Arhus fell to his knees. This wasn't over.

Page 3

A soothing chill filled his body as Elminoir and Sater applied salves to the wounds. It didn't smell great, but at least the burn was gone he thought as he lay on his stomach, eyes closed.

"I'm so sorry," she sniffed and Arhus turned his head towards her.

"This was never your fault," Sater began. "He's a pig and was jealous that he can't have your heart. Amazing that his wife turns a blind eye to his behavior."

"Elminoir," Arhus smiled. "This is the last beating he's giving anyone." His belief was stronger now than ever as she leaned towards him.

"Your vision is going to kill you," green eyes teared up as she carressed his face. "I couldn't bare the thought of that."

"No it won't. It's going to free our people."

* * *

After three days of rest, Arhus followed the cart loaded with baskets as the oxen plodded along the wide thoroughfare of Seridos' marketplace. Busy with shopping ladies and their daughters, followed by their porting slaves, Arhus soon noticed the clanging of metal within the workshop of his friend. Bowing to each of the passing elves who paid little mind to he and Yaeby, they crossed the marble tiled plaza centered by a tall, white statue of a flying pegasi which topped the mountain base. Water cascaded down into the bordering pool as other citizens argued philosophy or politics sitting on the benches which surrounded the gleaming spectacle, their backs to the various shops and shrines to various elven leaders.

Soon, they noticed Rimon's stand as the elven merchant plied the various foodstuffs grown in their fields. Yaeby pulled on the reins and stopped the oxen before the large trough as Arhus began unloading the baskets into the rear of the covered stall. Emerging from the wall of boxes and crates, a younger man helped arrange the cargo.

"I want to join you," he whispered as Arhus handed him a basket and turned to gather another from his partner. Unsure of what he had heard, he took another from Yaeby, now standing in the rear of the cart, and spun to lay it down.

"What?"

"Word's gotten out about your plan," the hushed voice was still audible in the cacophony of voices around them which made him nervous. "Many want to help."

Arhus nodded and continued unloading the vegetables, then straightened. "See you soon," he winked, then drifted back into the crowd as he trailed the cart towards the blacksmith shop. How had any news of his planned rebellion reached the ears of anyone outside of his trusted group? Perhaps Bjarn had an answer.

Thick with sooty heat, the open workshop's smelter intensified an already warm day as Arhus moved towards the large man, thickly muscled as he dipped a searing item into the water which angrily exploded in a white mist. Turning, the thickly moustached man grinned.

"Morning there, lad," he greeted as he then nodded to Yaeby. "What now, new ring for the ox's nose?"

Chuckling, Arhus relaxed as the smith produced his project and resumed beating it into a longer, more recognizable shape. "How've you been, friend? Haven't seen you in several weeks."

Bjarn nodded as he wiped a grimey forearm across his face, replacing sweat with a blackened swath. "Done what I've set out to do as I have every day since picking up this hammer. How about you?"

"Same and that hammer is going to save our lives, soon."

"Good." He glanced towards his younger helpers as they filled bins with coal, pushed onto the bellow's long handle and also produced many items for the town. "They're getting bored." He then motioned towards the storeroom. "Your master's order is in there along with more nails and hinges."

"Thank you, sir. I do appreciate it and I know he will also."

Bjarn spat onto the dark, dirt covered floor. "To the depths with that arrogant ass and his lot."

Arhus smiled as he then joined his compatriot at the large, darkened room as they gathered the packaged goods and carried them to the awaiting cart. Once done, he waved and they headed towards home. Plans of their targets and how best to hit them quickly ran through his mind for the past years, now it was coming time to execute. Could they do it? Time would tell.
Approaching them on the covered road, a carriage rumbled as Yaeby directed their cart to the side of the road as both men bowed. As Arhus eyed the ground, the sudden splat of a half eaten tomato hit the grass to his left and he distinctly heard the laugh of young elves. Shaking his head, he turned back towards the north as the crack of the whip prompted their ox to proceed.

"They never tire of their stupid games, do they," Yaeby commented.

"It's how we're seen in their eyes, you know that," he replied as he jumped up into the cart and sat atop their boxes of weapons. Hopefully no one would get suspicious. "Part of the life," he sighed as brown eyes soon noticed the large, granite home of Klaes and surrounding gardens tended to by his future wife. One day he would build her a home like it, though she would probably be happier in a small cottage nestled in a deep forest.

* * *

Enjoying the cool water as he rested within the flow of the nearby river that evening, Arhus soon looked up to notice Sater motion towards him. A figure in dark robes shook his eased state as he sat up to eye the mysterious visitor directly. Moving towards the river's edge, the darker skinned man crouched as Yaeby, Elminoir and Archantael all moved closer.

"Evening," Arhus greeted. "What can I do for you?"

"You fight our enemies as well, I've seen it and our oracle stated that I was to find you before it began," the quiet, serious voice revealed. "We are with you as are the orcs and goblins. Everyone has tired of their arrogance and malice. When do you plan to strike?"

Taken aback by the news, Arhus stared dumbly for a long moment. "We have the tools but, organizing has been a bit hard. Communication, I thought until today, may take even longer. How did you know to look for me specifically?"

Grinning, the dark elf's orange eyes sparkled. "We've been in tune with nature and the movements of the wind, we're not deaf, friend. The Masters of the Wind are ready as are our allies. Are you ready or not?"

Arhus stared into the messenger's eyes, then to his friends. "Absolutely," he glanced back. "Tell them tonight."

"Done." He rose, nodded respectfully, then turned and vanished into the shadows of the forest.

Archantael chuckled, "Seems you've grown a might popular".

"Seems," he agreed, still in shock.

Page 4

As his friends moved among the other groups and families, Arhus stood beside the well and gazed across towards the mansion. The barracks lined the northern side of the front drive and would have to be hit fast and hard. The more he thought of the resources at his command, the more nervous he grew. They had however been given more gifts from their ancestors than the elves may have been aware of. Magic. He himself had been developing his martial skills harder than the rest but, had a few tricks nonetheless.

"Best make your time with her more worthwhile," the sergeant stated from behind as Arhus turned to face the elf, now suddenly standing at his side. "Apparently, the lady is out for the next few days, visiting family in Te'Lelai," he grinned darkly. "You know what that means."

Arhus backed as the knight strode towards the estate, then spun and swung his walking stick mightily, catching the farmer on the shoulder. "How dare you disrespect me and not bow, dog," he spat as Arhus quickly crouched to kneel. Now. Strong hands sprang into action as Arhus punched the elf multiple times in the groin, then worked his way up to the face as the surprised victim of years of wrath recoiled.

Adrenaline pumped as he then unsheathed the officer's sword and stabbed, catching the knight as he tried to regain the upper hand, to no avail. Flashes of whippings, murders and the other crimes against his family and friends prompted the death of his first opportunity. Standing over the dying, bloody elf, he glanced up quickly to notice three mounted knights rein in their mounts in shock.

"Now!!!" Arhus screamed as he prepared for their charge, sword in hand. Spurring their horses, the trio spun and thundered towards him as swords sang from their sheaths. Suddenly, the earth erupted from beneath their horse's feet, exploding roots grabbed them which catapulted their riders forward. Accepting their charge, Arhus moved quickly as all three guards hit the ground in a heap, attacking each with a quick thrust or cut amidst the cries of horses struggling to free themselves.
Now joined by men and women armed with the swords that Bjarn had made, they moved quickly towards the barracks before an alarm could be sounded. Yaeby, Sater and Archantael, now armed with the newest swords recently dropped, headed towards the mansion as Elminoir joined him.

"I'll be there shortly, keep him alive until then," Arhus directed as Yaeby grinned.

"We'll try."

The mob exploded into the main room as the elves ate, cutting them down as some went for weapons or tried to escape. Arhus and his future wife assisting where they could, they soon watched as the more inexperienced humans soon lost ground, dying quickly under the skill of the defenders.
Motioning as she concentrated, Arhus soon noticed the room behind the elves erupt in flame as he moved to help. Consuming those behind, the remaining trio of elves pushed to escape the flames and were cut down instead.

"Let's get to the main house, hurry," he directed, leaving their dead behind as some grabbed shields and polearms on their way out. Rushing across the quiet yard, he soon heard the din of battle within the halls of their former master. He led them through the opened front door and raced through the foyer to notice more former servants chasing or wrestling with Klaes' children. Turning from the scene, he charged into the main study where Sater held the elven lord hostage in the corner, bastard sword pointed to his chest.

"Your little insurrection will cost you all your lives as well as those in town," Klaes stated. "How long do you think.."

Sater slapped him hard across the face, then backed with sword at the ready. "Shut up! You've 'bauched our women for far too long. Beaten faithful servants for no reason. Hear that," he motioned to the chaos reigning within the large house, "Yours will die first. Not us."

Arhus strode towards the one who had taken more than his share and given nothing in return. "I've lived with the knowledge of all your atrocities as well as those committed by your people for far too long. Instead of working with us to build a future, you enslaved more than just the humans. Know this, that before your time is done, more than just us have risen against you. Die with the knowledge that your arrogance has brought your downfall," a statement he finished with a thrust into the baron's chest. He watched as the elf's life ebbed away and finally slump to the floor.
He turned to his friends. "This has only begun. We have to continue this fight, for the rest of our lives if necessary. They're going to retaliate in force so, we have to stay on the move. Let's finish here then join the rest in town." As they left the room, he moved towards Elminoir as her green eyes stared at the fallen in the corner. "Are you okay?"

"You should've let me do it."

He nodded sympathetically. "Our hearts are one, so through me you did."

Page 5

As the small rebel force approached Seridos, the fires lit the evening sky as dark smoke rose with screams of the dying. Arhus knew the elves would try to defend the baron's castle as well as the surrounding forest where they thought they had the advantage. He slowed near a large oak and scanned into the narrow street beyond.

"We should move southeast," he gazed into the serene boughs around them.

"The fight is in the town," Archantael stated. "Why not help those fighting now?"

"We need to cut off the ones running towards the keep," he turned towards Elminoir, still shaken from the events unfolding around her. "I need your expertise if any rangers show up behind us."

Her green eyes glanced to him as she nodded.

"This way," he directed as the troop followed him quickly through the wooded surrounds as he made his way passed private gardens, gazebos and towards a large pond. Suddenly, arrows caught two men to his right, knocking them to the ground. "Shields up," he commanded, then moved towards the wounded as Sater joined him and assessed the wounds. As the healer rifled through his satchel for his wide collection of herbs, brown eyes scanned up into the boughs and noticed the faint outline of three elves drawing their bows for another shot.

"You'll be fine, friends," Sater calmly applied the moss and fed them each two leaves.

"There," Arhus motioned as he crouched, shield up. Another salvo sped towards them, hitting metal and grazing his leg as the missiles threatened to take more lives. He glanced to Elminoir as she concentrated, then looked over the rim of his small wall to notice a large form rise from the pond, arms formed and reached for the elves. One leapt from his high limb as his companions reacted too slowly, caught by the immense, watery hands and then yanked into the cool water. Surprised, he looked at Archantael who smiled.

"You're welcome," she said as Elminoir continued her own communion with nature.

"It'll be a bit before these two can move," Sater revealed as Arhus rose, prompting several others to join him.

"Alright," he motioned to three of the women. "Remain with them for the time being and keep your eyes open. The rest of us are continuing on." He pushed on as the third elf was encapsulated by roots and branches, then crushed. They soon came within sight of the high, stone towers of the baron's home and noticed others streaming to his protection along the road, rear elements harrassed by human slaves. Like a wave, they streamed over into wagons, hacking and throwing old and young alike out onto the road, bloodied and cleaved.

A gout of flame lurched from the rightmost tower, consuming attacker and horse alike as Arhus and his friends spun to see the chamberlain ready another assault while archers fired into the mob from the protection of the parapets.

"Sater," Arhus began. "Take out the chamberlain, the rest of us need to get up towards the gate. Wait there for me."

"Got him," the healer returned as Elminoir stepped up.

"Where are you going?"

"I have to get them organized and off the road," he said, then ran towards the edge of the wood, towards the carnage as two wagons burned amidst screaming horses and people. "To me," he yelled, gaining the attention of some who stopped, then ran towards him, arrows zipping past. He pointed towards his friends now moving through the forest. "Join them and stay down! Don't cluster." He quickly glanced up towards the merlons in time to see the well dressed right hand of the baron as his hands went to his forehead and slumped, disappearing from view.

Their siege lasted into the night as Arhus kept everyone alert. Darkness was their enemy, he thought as Sater tended to the wounded. Quietly, he moved towards the pond as Yaeby joined him.

"Elminoir told me that most of the others are on the far side of the road," the farmer and carpenter informed. "How long do you think we should remain here before reinforcements come to burn us out?"

Arhus chuckled tiredly. "I don't have all the answers yet, friend. Wish I did."

"You're leading this merry band of misfits, better think of something."

He crouched, sore from running and fighting as well as trying to get these slaves and craftsmen organized. "I'm not leading them alone, I have you, Sater, Archantael and Elminoir." Taking a cupped hand, he dipped it into the cool water and washed his face as Yaeby crouched beside him, moonlight picking out tired faces and sweaty clothes.

"This has been what's driven you for a long time, Arhus. Not me. Granted, I'm glad to be free for as long as this lasts, but I'm not totally sold on it being permanent yet."

"Ever the pragmatist," Arhus rose as he glanced to his friend. "I'm glad you're here to keep me grounded. They told me that we would see victory, and much more."

Steel-grey eyes studied him for a long moment. "I just hope 'they' aren't a figment of your imagination for I've left a comfortable bed for this hard ground."

"As have we all," he smiled. "You're not in this alone." Arhus stood and headed back towards their hidden camp as no fire was allowed. Shadows moved as Elminoir approached him. He loved the scent of roses that seemed to be ever about her. "Hello there," he greeted, heart lifted in her presence.

She chuckled lightly. "Greetings." Leaning against him, she relaxed as he placed his arm around her shoulders. "We have some visitors approaching from the north," her head rose. "Large band and the forest tells me they're orcs that have come to help us."

"Good news, to be sure. Odd that such a group would aid humans."

"Enemy of my enemy," Archantael interjected from his left.

"Very true." He just hoped that it would be an alliance that would withstand any obstacle.

Page 6

Many years had passed since those days, Arhus thought as aged eyes stared across a wood-lined field, littered with the bodies of elves, men, dwarves, orcs, halflings and horses. Tired, sunbaked face, cracked from age dripped with sweat as he turned to the survivors now laying amidst the wounded. He only hoped that this was the last battle he and his friends would have to endure.

"Looks like they've cowered in the small wood near the river, my lord," Sir William informed as he pointed towards the northeast.

Arhus nodded as he glanced back to the knight, dark platemail covered in dried blood and dirt. "Send an emissary with terms for peace, and inform them of their lord's health."

Bowing, the middle-aged man then straightened. "As you wish." As the knight moved to his mount, Arhus headed into the shade of the forest towards his pavilion, now guarded by a host of armored females. Liberated nearly twelve years ago, they had become an invaluable asset to his army, though their commander saw the events differently. He grinned at her proclamation of mutual aggression towards the gladiatorial compound as he glanced to Alysia, their leader as she bowed her head to him as he passed.
Opening the flap to his large tent, the guards stepped aside as he entered the candlelit interior to see the elven king recovering from his wounds on Arhus' own cot. Elminoir hadn't been pleased with the act of mercy, but understood her husband all too well.

"How do you fare, Your Highness," Arhus asked as he set his helmet on the small table to his left and approached.

Emperor Edovatar sat up, wincing as blue eyes glared back. "Don't patronize me."

Grinning, Arhus should've expected that response. "Had I ill intent for you, sire, I would never have allowed our priest to tend to your wounds. Nor would I have had you moved to my tent." He explained as he moved towards a water pitcher and poured.

The elf sighed heavily. "What are your intentions then?"

"Your army is beaten," he began as he handed his prisoner the goblet, then sat on a nearby chair. "We have the field and your remaining men are now surrounded. I've sent word to them of your status and offer them peace but, I'm sure those words would have more weight were they from their king."

Disdain-filled eyes glared at him a long moment, then he drank. Arhus watched the frustration in the noble's face as the moments passed and anger soon gave way to pity and understanding. As the quiet breeze beat against the heavy canvas, the elf soon nodded quietly in defeat.

"Then as soon as your able, we'll ride out and notify them."

* * *

After four days of burial and recovery, a table was set within the allied camp and surrounded by guards from both armies as Arhus walked towards the meeting place and sat down with Elminoir, Yaeby, Archantael and Sater joining him to either side. He had spent the night before penning a contract between them and hoped the elves would accept it as he watched the elven emperor and his remaining generals join them as they sat across the table.

"I've written our agreement down so that our children and children's children can honor the agreement of this day," Arhus began as he pushed the parchment across to the awaiting high king whose long fingers raised it. "The Accord of Three Rivers will forever be remembered as the peace that ended this dark age and birthed a new one, hopefully with a peace that will last through the ages."

Tense moments lingered as he studied the fair, strong face which soon rose to him. "Our borders will be closed to your races and any infringement of that will be recognized as a renewal of hostilities. I sign this with that in mind."

Brown eyes narrowed and Arhus nodded, then motioned to the quill and ink. Once done, Arhus rose and extended his hand as the bejeweled elf and his entourage stood, turned and left the meeting.

"Bit too much to expect, brother," Sater stated coldly as they watched the elves move towards their horses and climb into the saddles, then ride away.

"Guess so," he glanced to the contract and picked it up. "But this was a dream, long time in coming. Just wish it didn't take thirty-five years and many l lives to realize."

"Nothing worth having comes easy," Elminoir added as she placed a loving hand on his forearm. "You know that."

"Time for a drink," Yaeby sighed as he grabbed Archantael and moved towards their field kitchen, followed by many of the guards.

Page 7

"My lord," the cleric called as his aged face excitedly moved towards the armored knight who still hadn't been able to remove it after the war had ended nearly four months prior. "They're ready for you," he informed, straightening his white vestment whose thin, gold border shone in the afternoon sun.

"I'll be right there," Arhus nodded as Elminoir tied on his brilliant red cloak. He had been trying to avoid this moment for some time. Pouring through the nearby double doors, sunlight shone brightly on the newly cleaned, grey marble floor and thick rugs within his study here in Seridos.

Sater dismissed the priest as he approached, Lady Alysia remaining quiet in the shadows of the room as Arhus noticed her admiring him quietly. "So, it seems you've won more than our freedom," his serious tone echoed within the large room that had once entertained elven nobles.

"Not by choice," brown eyes gazed towards his friend of many years as Elminoir moved to the right clasp. "I would gladly give this honor to you, brother. Trust me."

Dark eyes grinned as the high priest stopped to his left, hands behind his back as his brilliant gold necklace and pendant glinted. "It's not mine to claim. The people have looked to you for guidance since this war started, you're a natural leader and have command of everyone's trust. No other name in this new kingdom, or any for that matter, thinks of Sater when they would promote a new liege."

Arhus nodded modestly. "I have my friends to thank for our victory. Without any of you, that day at Three Rivers would never have happened."

"Your modesty and humility are irksome at times, friend," he glanced to Elminoir and turned as he moved towards the veranda as her blue eyes followed him.

"You have the love of many of your followers as well," she informed. "Without your healing abilities and care for the wounded, many would've died during our marches and from battle."

He nodded quietly and Arhus wondered what was really bothering his friend. "I know." Sater soon turned and eyed him. "Be careful what you wish for, right? This is your day," he relaxed and slowly moved towards them. "Revel in it and bother not with other worries for today we become a kingdom with our own hero at it's head."

"Heroes," Arhus corrected.

Sater grinned. "Of course."

* * *

After two days of celebration, Arhus quietly walked the halls of his small home, full of his friends and Alysia as well as her guards. Now a king, he pondered the road here. Mused on many friends now dead who had given their lives for this goal. Now fifty-six, he was worried that he and Elminoir were too old to leave any progeny to carry on their dream.

Suddenly, a chill ran up his spine as the darkened hall brightened from behind him, forcing him to spin and see the beautiful wonder before his eyes. Shocked, his mouth fell open as the brilliant form hovered before him.

"Arhus," it's voice sounding like many speaking as one. "You've done wonders for your race as well as the others who've joined you in this liberation. All look to you and your friends now as icons and will tell your stories for generations. Time will come soon when you are to take your rightful place as their guide and example. We will speak again soon." As the image faded, he saw a flash in his mind of a high, cold mountain with a temple atop it whose long, broad stair lowered to more buildings and workshops. A vision that faded into darkness.

* * *

He awoke in his bed, Elminoir's blonde hair against his right cheek as she slept on his chest, arm across him. Her perpetual scent had never left her, even after a battle, he mused as he quietly stroked her back and shoulder. The night's dream had been a strange one full of people and places he had never been before, nor even knew existed.

"Good morning," she greeted sleepily, then rose and kissed him.

"Hi there. How'd you sleep?"

She backed, blue eyes studying him from her tanned face, lined with age. "Well, I guess. Had an odd dream though."

"Oh?"

Elminoir nodded. "Gliding over forests like a vast, rolling carpet and I could feel the heartbeats of everything. Life's ebbs and flows. It was beautiful, and frightening at the same time. I've never felt anything like that before."

"You can sense things in nature that I could only dream of. You've always had that gift."

"Not like this. It was as if I could heal and nurture everything within miles of me," she smiled childishly. "It was beautiful." As tears began to well in her eyes, Arhus drew her close and kissed her on the forehead, then hugged her tightly.

"Maybe that's what it will be like when this life is done with us."

"Can't wait."

Page 8

Alysia paced the carpeted and lavishly appointed hall while two of her guards remained posted outside the main study where their king, his wife and the other three leaders of their new world resided. Her serious blue eyes glanced up to see the approaching scribe, his long tea-colored, velvet robe swaying with each step and revealed dark grey tunic and pants. A gauntleted hand rose and stopped the dark elf, large tome in his hand.

"I'm here at the request of the king," Mishaab informed.

"I know that. I'm also to make it clear that whatever is stated to you is done so in confidence." Her auburn hair, pulled back from the rounded face shone dimly in the torchlight as his orange eyes narrowed.

"I've ever kept their private conversations and thoughts to myself. You need not remind me of that, trust me."

Alysia nodded, then motioned to the guards to open the carved, oaken door whose dark polish reflected the intricate carvings from the sunlight within the study as the scribe entered, then disappeared behind the door as it closed.

* * *

Arhus glanced up from his chair as Elminoir, Archantael, Yaeby and Sater gazed to the scribe who entered, then motioned to the chair that fronted the couch and short table between. A floral arrangement exploded with color that rose from a white vase, pointing to the checkerboard ceiling.

"We've asked you here to finish our story with our thoughts and things that we deem are important for the people who will come after," Arhus explained.

Nervously eyeing him, Mishaab nodded as he set the large tome on his lap. "Of course, sire."

"We're just hoping you have enough room left in there," Yaeby smiled.

Grinning, the grey skinned face glanced to the thick book as he opened it. "I still have many pages that cry to be filled, sir." He glanced to Arhus. "Where did you wish me to begin?"

The following hours were full of primarily doctrine and thoughts from each of the Five, gaining their own chapters dedicated to the principles they wished to be followed for the benefit of all. Lunch and dinner had been delivered during the visit and Arhus soon set his goblet down onto the side table between his chair and the couch.

"I thank you, sir, for your dedication to our story," he rose which prompted the dark elf to follow suit. "I only hope that your words are never lost to time."

"Your words, sire. Not mine." Mishaab, tired from hours of writing glanced to each of his friends in turn. "And I thank all of you for this honor." He bowed, then headed towards the door and left them alone.

"So," Sater began. "In the morning?"

Brown eyes glanced towards the cleric. "That's what I was told, yes," he nodded. "We'll all need to pack our things for the journey so, get some rest." Quietly, he took Elminoir's hand and led her into the hallway where Alysia and two more guards joined them on the short trek to the master bedroom. As they approached the door, he turned to the trusted captain. "Alysia, I thank you for your dedication to our cause and for all you've done for me and my friends. Thank you."

She bowed respectfully. "It's been my honor, Your Highness," blue eyes rose as she straightened, then grew concerned. "Why...if I may be so bold, is this come about?"

"We're going to be leaving you, in the morning. The chamberlain has instructions and I know you will serve the next king as fiercely as you've served myself and the queen."

Taken aback, the knight's eyes narrowed. "Sire, I and my knights would glady follow you to the ends of the world, if necessary. Where you go, we will follow."

He grinned, admiring her unwavering loyalty. "I know, but where we go you can't follow." The thought giving him a lump in his throat. "Goodbye." He turned and headed into the room, Elminoir quietly at his side, then closed the door.

* * *

As the morning's golden rays carressed the veranda, Arhus watched the horizon as Sater joined he and the others with backpack in hand. Through the trees, he soon noticed long shapes emerge from the distance, long wings flapping then flare as the dragons approached the railing. They each stepped back as enormous talons gripped the thick stone and threatened to rip the marble from it's perch.

"Are you ready," the soft, female voice asked and Arhus nodded to the large, red face eyeing him quietly. As he climbed up, Elminoir mounted a green and he soon noticed that they each rode a representative color, Archantael's being blue, Yaeby's a golden yellow with Sater's being white which all vaulted into the air and turned northward.
He lay atop the thick neck as wind tore at his hair and cloak, then glanced over towards his left to watch the lands that he had fought to liberate flow past him. Rolling green hills broken up by thin blue lines soon gave way to more open tundra, the colder lands that his Varangian friends would now claim as their own. Bjarn being one of their kind, he missed the blacksmith who had given more than his share for their cause.

As the tufted green plain soon gave way to deep blue of the northern sea, he glanced up to notice the thin, white line on the horizon come slowly into view. Colder, the air's chill prompted him to pull his cloak tighter over his neck as the dragon's warmth kept the rest of his body from freezing.

"It won't be much longer now," she informed mentally. "Soon, you'll be home."

He nodded, excited nervousness was hard to conceal now as he stole a glance over towards the figure hugging to the neck of the green to his left. Many dreams had pushed aside the personal goals he had for them but, as Sater put it, 'Be careful of what you wish for'. He had no regrets, they had done what they set out to do, and that was enough.

Jagged white shoreline introduced them to the Great North as their mounts sped ever onward towards the distant mountains as Arhus soon rose to set his chin on the dragon's large scales, the memory of his vision returned quickly and he realized that the dream wasn't just a passing moment after all. Rising into the blue sky, grey rocky peaks broke up the shades of white and bluish ice which formed the mountain that he remembered. As they approached, he noticed a large group of men who stood, brown furry coats and hats keeping them from the cold.

"Who are these men," he asked.

"Those who will build your temple and then guard it from now on," she informed as wings beat out a slow landing, then retracted as he sat up. There must have been hundreds of them, he thought as he rounded his leg over her neck and climbed down into the thick snow which rose above his knees. Bowing to the Five, their large frames denoted Varangians immediately as he stepped towards them, crunching through the thickly covered layer.

"Welcome to Haltiatinturi, Sire," one's deep voice greeted as the warrior glanced up, his green eyes revealing volumes. "We're ready to begin construction. My men have been clearing a road up to the summit for the past few weeks."

Still bewildered, his brown eyes rose and noticed a line now the broken piles of ice and snow rimmed along the mountainside which rose into a thick cloudbank. "Thank you and your men," he looked back to the large captain whose blonde moustache and beard were speckled with ice. "We're here to help you," he glanced to his four friends who joined him.

Page 9

After two weeks of intensive, hard work, they had finally bridged both chasms which broke up the compound that the Five had designed. Now for the buildings to house these men and a temple dedicated to each of their individual realms of influence, he thought as Arhus stood on a large, flat rise and gazed out across the white valley below and beyond to more majestic ranges. Taking his hand, Elminoir leaned against his shoulder.

"Beautiful, isn't it," Archantael mused as she admired the view from Yaeby's side. "Amazing to think this place even existed here without us knowing all this time."

"It's more amazing that beauty can be found in a territory that's seen as the 'Land of the Dead'," Sater added quietly.

Yaeby chuckled. "It is quiet here, other than the wind. I like it though."

"No offense," the high cleric continued as he glanced to Elminoir, "but, give me a forest and quiet stream anyday".

Arhus grinned. "Don't worry, we won't have to be here long," he glanced to his long time friend.

"It's going to take longer than a few days to build this compound," Sater reminded. "Especially with all that we have in mind."

"We've only come to get them started." Arhus could see the desperation in the aging man whose dark hair and once handsome features were faded with age and stress.

"You're more than welcome to give up if you want," his voice raised and gained the attention of the rest of the group. "I still have to find someone and settle down, have a family. I still can't believe that you've dedicated yourselves to this mess and not been allowed to have any children. What kind of sense does that make?"

"Sater," Arhus moved towards the man, upset from his years of solitude. "We lived a dream and brought freedom to..."

"I know the speech, spare me. They got what they needed and what did we get? Nothing. I watched thousands die for your dream and buried each. Watched their wives and children lament their loss. I've been given the gift of healing and what did it get me? I still can't heal anything else," his head lowered in frustration.

"Had I what I truly wanted, there would have been peace without the war," Arhus revealed. "Justice for murders and debauchery would've been satisfied and the rest of us live in peace together."

"That's because you're a dreamer," Sater's dark eyes rose. "That never would've happened and you know it. Stop kidding yourself, you took as much pleasure in watching that bastard die as I did. As did we all," he glanced beyond Arhus to the others. "We gave up everything and got nothing in return." He neared Arhus and leaned in. "Congratulations."

Arhus eyed his friend and knew his pains and wished there was something he could do. "Yes, I did. The unfortunate part about justice is that someone has to be the executioner, sometimes. He paid for his crimes as did many others," he shook his head. "I'm glad they're no longer around to keep us under heel. Sater, we've gained allies with so many and now built bridges to enjoy a world that can keep the elves from ever trying to return us to slavery. You have to take some pleasure in that knowledge."

"We should've wiped them from the map." Sater stated flatly, then walked away.

"Genocide would've made us no better than our enemy," Yaeby returned as they watched the priest head back towards their tents.

"What's gotten into him," Archantael wondered aloud.

"He's lonely," Elminoir said as she stepped up to Arhus. "Even with all the women he's slept with, he's never found one that he loved."

"Too much time around death has made him cold as well," Yaeby added. "I feel sorry for him, actually."

"He knows we're here for him, as always," Arhus turned to his wife and hugged her. He also knew that Sater had been jealous of him ever since he and Elminoir married. A fact that was never cleverly hidden.

Page 10

Arhus walked out into the chilly air, now whistling through the narrow, short cave carved from the ridge that walled off the main courtyard to the rest of the compound. Still needing months of construction, the platform across from him rose quietly as the partially veiled moon silhouetted a familiar male form, sitting alone with a bottle in his hand. Pulling his cloak closed over his exposed neck, he climbed the short stair towards Sater who faced the northern peak which would one day house a grand temple.

"Can't sleep," Arhus asked as he sat beside his friend who glanced up.

"No. I've slept enough for one night," he stated quietly, then took another long draught. Wincing from the burn, he let his arm fall back to his thigh, bottle's contents sloshing within. "It's going to be nice when it's done. Can't wait to see it."

Arhus chuckled. "Definitely, me either." Knowing the cleric's state, he allowed time to open doors.

"You're a good king," a comment that prompted Arhus to eye the semi-drunken healer. "Always have been a good leader. Took us through the worst....things anyone should have to endure in a lifetime."

He smiled. "We've all been given gifts, yours the greatest prize of all."

Sater laughed, nearly spilling the remaining alcohol which the Varangians had brought with them in regular shipments over the past month. "Yeah, I'm a great man," he slurred, then pushed himself back upright. "Whoa."

"The power over death is something to be proud of. You've done wonders with your talents, many admire you. I shouldn't have to remind you of all those mothers who will get to see a child grow old, a husband witness generations continue his name."

Leaning forward, brown eyes locked with the chalky tiles they sat on. "I've always admired you," he stated with clarity, as if a sudden detoxifying spell had been cast as he straightened again. "I'm sorry I've been jealous. Never was happy with being in the supporting role but, you're right, not everyone can be a king of a land. One has to shine above all." He glanced to Arhus, "No one is more worthy than you. You've always had the vision for a better world. Just glad I was able to take part in that," he smiled.

Arhus placed a strong hand on Sater's shoulder, "I was glad to have you with me". Before his eyes, his friend's body evanesced into shadow then drifted away with the strong wind, bottle clattering to the stone and rolled as Arhus stood in disbelief. "Sater!!"

As tears welled, he suddenly felt the calming chill rise up his spine. This was it, that moment he had been informed of as a soft light pierced the dark, cloudy night and opened ever wider. Encapsulating him, the inviting calm drew him within taking all fear and doubt from his mind.

Page 11

Hazy light poured through the towering, bullet shaped windows and cast their light upon the large, king-sized bed. Thick comfortable blanket of maroon shrouded white sheets as Arhus woke to the smell of pure, mountain air and the soft thunder of a waterfall. Brown eyes opened to see the vaulted ceiling of stone arches centered by carved shields sporting his heraldry of red shield topped by vertical black and gold bars. Above it, a golden crown that gleamed in the morning light. He sat up and quickly scanned the master bedroom which he didn't recognize. Between the two sets of tall windows stood a large hearth, outside he noticed the distant cliffs that lay beyond a manicured, deep green lawn framed by a short stone wall.

"Elminoir," he called towards the open bathing room to his left.

"She's inherited her own home, not far from you," the familiar cacophony of voices revealed. "Across the bridge to the north. You can see her when you're settled, Arhus. Welcome home."

He searched the room for the voice which seemed to come from all directions at once. "Where is home?"

"Ciechanow. Your district will forever be known as Ghevond and succeeding priests in the world will spread your dogma to all corners and walks of life."

Arhus sat dumbfounded for a long moment. "What are you saying? That I am to be a god?"

"Of sorts, yes. Your story of heroism and stance on justice and equality will keep the human race from becoming barbarous murderers. Civilisation will take on a new face and be led by those who have stepped up in your absence. But, you will be able to guide them through various methods. I'll allow you to become accustomed to your home before explaining more about your duties from now on."

He nodded, still in shock as he felt the powerful energy in the air subside. Shuffling towards his left, he stepped out from underneath the covers and pushed himself up. The air was neither cool nor hot and he could feel the power that his home's walls and foundations had been built with. This would take some getting used to, he mused as he entered the large bathroom, it's tan marble floors graced the well lit room whose opaque window faced him, resting above the large tub that nearly covered half of the floor. Brass columns rose from the four corners whose small holders contained various oils and soaps. More suited to Elminoir than he, he grinned.

After cleaning up, he realized he had the ability to do that magically but, old habits die hard sometimes. As he dried off, he turned to notice the mirror standing in the far corner of the bathroom and the young, strong man in it's reflection. A drastic change had taken place as he gazed at the twenty year old who began his crusade long ago. Broad smile arced upward; he could get used to this.

He got dressed in finely crafted silks of maroon, gold and black, then headed out and discovered the rest of his new home. Deep, polished mohogany carved into chair rail and framing for each of the doorways bordered large paintings and reliefs of flying cherubs arcing upwards to the ceiling. Across from the large great hall he gazed into a living room lit by four pairs of triple windows which rose from floor to ceiling also casting golden light onto thick, heavy furniture and rugs of various scenes. Brilliant colors brought out the lavish surroundings as he moved towards the foyer and pair of front doors whose thick, dark wood also sported his heraldry in ruby, gold and ebony. Opulence that he never would've chosen for himself. As he approached the entrance, the doors opened to reveal a long walkway bordered by willows, grass yard and two large, cream colored buildings to either side.
Booming rush from the waterfall that he had heard earlier was clearer now and he noticed their misty steam rise from his left as he walked outside. Bright, the sun picked out the facing boughs and buildings which stood four stories as he also noticed the shrub lining his home across the front. He turned towards the shallow wall and walked towards it, noticing the protective cliff face rounded the river gorge they had chosen to build their home in. Once reaching the edge, he peered down and noticed the rush of whitewater flowing along the deep avenue and towards his right to a distant shelf of large boulders which guided the water southward through another chasm. Rimming the top of the gorge stood tall trees that vainly shrouded the distant, snow capped mountains from view.

"Where are the others," he asked, hoping their benefactor was listening.

"All five are here, in their own quarter. Give one another time to adjust before venturing outside your own. I'm located in the center of Ciechanow and you can come to us anytime you wish, or just speak out in this manner. There's nowhere you can go that I won't hear."

Arhus nodded. "You've definitely chosen a great spot. Are we on an island?"

"Yes."

"What do I call you?"

"Names are irrelevent, but if you wish, Charikar. I wish all of you to come to me personally in an hour. We have some ground rules to get straight before you begin governing your realm."

"I'll be there," he replied as he turned back towards his new home.

* * *

Soon, he teleported himself at the front steps of a large, circular building whose large, white columns and arches supported a shimmering, bluish roof of some odd contstruction. It's aura of purple swirled upwards and around the temple itself as if a fire contained by it's fuel. Up the steps he walked and could feel the intensity of the one within as a large, rounded door opened and released the brilliant light from inside. A presence he was very accustomed to by now.
Not only could he feel Charikar but, also his friends as he stepped inside and was enveloped by their host.

"Each of you have been given a realm to control and will in time be growing a host of faithful who will carry out your wishes. They will be advisors only and guide your followers in the world. Your churches will serve man and help them grow in the knowledge of your dogma, keeping the darker races at bay. You will not start wars through your influence nor will you manipulate or decieve. Any infraction will be penalized severely. It's been a hope that all races would one day live in peace but, it seems that the advent of the human's freedom may produce a backlash instead. It will now be your job to ensure genocide does not take place, in any form or fashion. Elves are an important part of this world, even though they may disagree with your principles. Sacred groves and places like them need to survive. Each of you know what you have to do and what your individual proficiencies are. Your power will grow in time but, you must keep pride in check. Remember, your race depends on you. Moreso from now on. I will always be here for advice and for your questions. And one more thing, you are never to leave this continent. Allow your hosts to run errands and deliver messages. You personally have a much larger role to play in the future of this world which will not ever require your physical attention. Are we understood?"

"Yes," Arhus replied and noted the others agreed also. Now to get to work.

page 2

He packed his extra clothes and gear into the large saddlebags, what little had been collected over the past thirty years of service. Possessions meant little to someone who was well taken care of by the only one he had trusted and leaned on since he learned Arhus’s name. The orphanage was full of boys like him, but few that joined the ranks of the Order of the Golden Scepter. Few were given that opportunity.
Once he tied the leather bags closed, he shouldered them and walked out into the main sitting room that completed their apartment. Tired eyes scanned the room to make sure he hadn’t forgotten anything, then once satisfied, he continued out into the hallway and closed the door behind him.

Soon, he walked out into the courtyard and noticed how quickly the once blue sky had clouded as he strolled across to the stables that bordered the left side of the grassy yard. As he approached, Stewart, the blacksmith and stablehand led his dark brown, light warhorse out to it’s master as Orem led his own, smoke grey warhorse out behind him.

“He’s ready for battle once again, milord,” the stout soldier smiled as he patted Rusty on the nose.

“Thank you, Stewart,” he accepted the reins and greeted his faithful mount warmly. “May be a long road, friend,” he rubbed and patted the horse on the neck as it’s long, black mane hung over the eyes and muscular neck. He climbed into the saddle once the saddlebags were secured and noticed Sir Frederick watching them prepare to depart from the front door’s large frame. He raised his right hand in salute and received the same in return as Orem mounted also.

“My lord,” Stewart interrupted. “I would be honored if you would take me on as your man-at-arms.”

Hazel-green eyes glanced down to the blacksmith. “I appreciate your offer but, this mission may require more experience, friend. I’m sorry.” A truth that deflated the templar as his eyes and shoulders fell. “It’s also not the place for a templar to fill that spot in a glaive. Why would you wish a demotion?”

Stewart shook his head. “It’s not, sir. But, I honor you and will pray for your success in whatever he’s called you to do.”

“I’m in your debt, friend.” William smiled and spurred his horse towards the front gate which bridged the dorms and great hall that made up the walls of the compound. As they thundered out through the gatehouse, he felt the energy from the node leave him and hoped his stay had been long enough.
Moat and open grassland was soon cut off by forest as they rode south towards Inellan, a trip that would take them only a few leagues and give him time to gain some insights.

“My lord,” Orem soon interrupted the hoofbeats on the hard packed road. “Should we head to Laksay first?”

“I was wondering about that,” he nodded, cool breeze wafting through the open faced helmet as the hinged visor remained up. “I think it would help us determine what we’re up against. Hopefully, it hasn’t gotten far though, demons tend to gravitate towards familiarity first, then branch out from there.”

“How do you think it seduced two servants of Arhus so easily,” his gruff companion inquired.

“It must be clever indeed,” he mused. “Or, they’re very young and impressionable.”

“True.” He patted his warhammer and grinned. “Guess it’s time to get to work again.”

William smiled and gazed across farmland which opened to their right and left as farmers and their help tilled the land for harvest. Some waved in recognition to the knights as they passed, others ignored them as they tended to their chores.

Soon, the walls of Inellan spread out before them as they passed an inn, a town that he had become more than familiar with and it’s suspect nobility. Most here avoided being embroiled in the shadowy religion dedicated to the deity of the Underworld and Saterists were never found in large groups. He had noticed however, that their practises were overt in nearby glades or someone’s barn as the remains of their sacrifices had been found during more than one raid. These practitioners of sorcery had become his church’s biggest rivals.
As they passed into the tightly knit town of several thousand, hard packed earth stank of refuse and seemed a constant task for the local priests to keep disease from becoming rampant. They reined their steeds through the crowd and soon turned into the small yard that fronted the church of Arhus. A short, stone wall hemmed in the well manicured lawn tended to by young orphans, some of whom he had become a friend to.
He climbed down from the saddle and handed his reins to Orem as two lanky, teenage boys in simple woolen garb approached, bowed and moved to receive the reins from the large templar.

“We may not be here long,” William informed.

“Yes, milord,” one stated as they led both horses towards the trough. Up the short stair, Orem pulled open the door and followed William inside as he made his way to the front of the fair sized church. Columns rose forty feet and supported the thick, oaken beams which held three large chandeliers of black iron. Banks of large windows to either side shed light into the main sanctuary as he noticed one of the four clerics that called Inellan home. Upon seeing their guests, the thinly built man approached, short cropped brown hair hung over his ears and brown eyes smiled.

“Good day to you, sirs. How may I be of service?”

“We’re only here for guidance at the moment, Albert, but may have some questions later,” William stated as he nodded politely.

Albert nodded, “Of course. Good to see you again, William.”

“You as well,” he glanced around. “Where’s the Vicar,” he asked, though knew the answer before bothering.

“Probably in town or with the baron, “ Albert informed. “Would you like me to inform him that you’re here?”

“No, that’s alright. No need to interrupt his important business.” The vicar had become the epitome of everything that a modest servant of Arhus was not supposed to be and he wondered how long it would be before the bishop would be judged for his arrogance and debauchery.

He pushed out thoughts of the pompous cleric and continued to the raised dais at the forefront of the chapel and knelt as he pushed his hand-and-a-half sword’s handle downward, then let the blade’s end rest on the flagstone as he closed his eyes.

“Father, I ask for your guidance in this matter of the demon that’s been allowed to walk this land and has overcome your teachings with those of Sater in two of your faithful. Lead me to it and help me vanquish this evil and send it back to the darkness whence it came.” He soon felt a charge up his spine as goosebumps rose on his arms and neck, something he still hadn’t gotten used to when his champion neared to guide him and answer his requests. Having so many faithful in the world, among the human population, the deity of justice commanded an army of female champions like the one who advised him since his faith had reached that level.

“Some things are meant to be,” her melodic voice from above and behind him replied. “Your quest to find her will not be an easy one but, go to Laksay and see what’s been done there to your brethren.”

“Thank you. Will I need any particular weapon or item to help heal them from what it’s done?”

“You have command of all you’ll need.”

He nodded and soon felt her presence melt from him. Opening his eyes, he noticed Orem kneeling beside and to the right of him and rose quietly, then turned to see one of the largest men he had ever seen. Standing about six and a half feet tall, the black hair hung long at the back of the brown eyed soldier. What struck him most was the circular tattoo on his forehead as the symbol of Arhus commanded his brow. Nodding in respect, the armored man led another equally youthful and strong man to the dais to pray as William walked back towards the entrance. He pulled on the iron ring and walked out into a light drizzle which softly pelted his armor.

He grinned as both attendants stood and bowed to him as he approached. “Well done boys, thank you for tending to these two brave mounts. I hope they didn’t give you too much trouble.”

“No, milord,” the taller, brown haired boy returned.

Nodding, he noticed Orem walking up behind him and grabbed the reins, then climbed back into the saddle as hazel green eyes glanced to his friend. “Looks like I’m to the ruins.”

Orem nodded as he mounted the sturdy grey. “Yes, sir. I got that from him too.”

“I’d like you to remain here in Inellan. See what you can find out about any activity in the area and I should be back within the week.” A command that didn’t sit well with the templar as his brow furrowed.

“My lord, those forests west of the Dovey aren’t safe these days. I should go with you.”

William smiled. “Arhus guides my path and has protected me thus far, I’ll be fine. Without knowing where it’s led these people, having you here can at least give us some insight as to which direction they’ve gone. Especially with the army of orcs attacking Zariva to the south.”

Orem let out a huff in frustration as he glanced into the busy street. “As you wish.” Blue eyes glanced back to him. “Just don’t take too long.”

He nodded, then spurred his mount towards the small gate and out into the street as people parted from his path. Thundering through the now muddy road, he wished to gain his intelligence as quickly as possible. Once through the market square, he turned right and headed towards the distant western gate and followed the main highway that claimed thousands of leagues in both directions. He only hoped that the new bridge was completed to replace the wooden one destroyed by a raiding party and William wondered if it was done by the same group that sacked the compound to Arhus. Both Laksay and the bridge were destroyed within the same week. Being cut off to the kingdom of Davos, the Frontier to the west would be easier to conquer by a determined enemy though, he was beginning to wonder if both were orchestrated to free this demon without any interruptions from his Order. It seemed that many evils had been used lately to divert attention from a singular goal.
Perhaps riding to Laksay alone wasn’t such a good idea.

* * *

After a day-and-a-half of riding through a cold, misty rain he finally reached the toll booth commanded by the Order of the Raven whose fortress not only protected the eastern bank of the Dovey, but also the highway’s entrance to the kingdom from the Frontier. Splashing through the muddy ruts, he reined his steed towards the main keep as knights in white tabards whose breast sported a black raven with outstretched wings that reached towards their shoulders glanced at the paladin who reined in his trusty steed and dismounted.
He nodded in respect to a rugged soldier whose matted brown hair and wrinkled brow told of a veteran. “Is your knight commander here?”

“He is,” the knight motioned towards the keep. “How was the road from Inellan?”

“Quiet,” he replied as he headed towards the protected staircase. “West?”

“Same so far. We’ve chased the orcs back towards the south and sent word to Carbost. Hopefully the baroness will send men to help protect Thomson or at least finish off what’s left of those beasts.”

“Hmm,” William continued up into the now opened door, hoping for some answers from the leader of these brave men. With the fortress intact and it’s men not cowering behind the walls, maybe this demon hadn’t left the forests around the ruins after all. Time would tell.
Turning into the great hall, he noticed a quartet of knights lounging at the long table. Goblets and empty plates stating that he had just missed lunch. At his approach, they all stood and bowed to him.

“How can we help you, sir,” an equally aged veteran sitting at the head of the table inquired.

“I’m looking for the knight commander here,” hazel green eyes scanned the others until the same man replied.

“Sir Kevin, at your service. How can I serve Arhus this day?”

William smiled. “Has there been any troubles here lately? Things not explained, men missing or anything like that?”

Kevin shook his head in thought, tanned right hand to his chin. “Other than those infernal mages that were here building that bridge and making a nuisance of themselves, no.” A comment that garnered a few chuckles from his companions.

“Okay,” William nodded as he removed his helmet and brushed back the chainmail coif, then untied the linen padding beneath.

“Get the paladin some drink and a meal,” Sir Kevin barked and prompted two squires attending the hearth into action.

“Thank you for your hospitality.” The paladin moved towards the end of the bench seat and sat down, dropping his linen coif into the helmet and laid it on the wooden seat beside him.

“Freely offered,” Kevin sat down in the modestly adorned chair. “Is there anything else I can help with? You’re obviously hunting something in the area, I’m assuming.”

“I am,” William hesitantly informed. “However, this trouble is beyond your abilities and I don’t wish to embroil your men into something that I was called to vanquish. No offense.”

His host shook his head. “None taken. But, I will have my men keep their eyes open and inform you immediately of any troubles.”

As the younger squire laid the bowl full of hot stew before him, his mouth immediately began to water and tore off a huge chunk of bread and ate. Filling an empty stomach, the welcome sustenance lightened his mood considerably.

“I know the reports were that orcs burned the bridge,” he resumed. “Had any of your men actually seen this happen?”

“Fiery arrows flew from the opposite bank that night which is too far to see who they were, in all honesty. Four wagons were the first over the bridge once it was completed and seemed uninjured and reported no troubles when they arrived. My scouts did follow a large group of booted tracks south of the highway though and they believed them to be made by orcs. Heavier with a wider stance indicated such.”

William nodded as he finished sopping up the gravy with the morsel of remaining bread. The story made sense but, he still needed to see the ruins himself.

“Just seems odd to me that a group of unintelligent animals like that could’ve killed so many templar and clerics in that compound though,” Kevin continued.

William grinned as he straightened and wiped off his mouth, then pushed the empty bowl to the side and allowed the squire to retrieve it. “Many strange things have been going on lately,” he admitted. “Anyone can be killed if the numbers are against them.”

Kevin nodded and sat back. “How true.”

Page 2

“How many times have I told you, don’t go out in the night,” his father’s steel-blue eyes glared as Aodrenig sat in the workshop. Carpentry tools hung on pegs, neatly organized by his grandfather who had been a child when the town was founded, nearly eighty years ago, now.

“Nothing happened,” he lied as he went back to sharpening another piece of wood into a stake. He avoided the judging gaze his father loved to give he and his two brothers and sister when he knew better. Or thought he did, anyway.

“Right. I saw you this morning when you came running in the back door from my bedroom window, panting, sweating and looking over your shoulder.” He stated as the large knight stepped forward prompting Aodrenig to look up. “You went to see her again, didn’t you?”

He sighed as both arms fell into his lap. “I love her.” A point that they had been arguing for months now.

“That’s the problem with that harlot, everyone has loved her at one time or another.” An accusation that pushed the twenty year old son to his feet immediately. “You wish to take a swing at me, boy? I may be your senior, but know this, I’m still stronger and more able.” A point that didn’t matter at the moment as Aodrenig glared.

“She’s not a whore,” he pushed out through clenched teeth. “Don’t ever say that again.”

Greying brow furrowed in anger. “You own your own home and I’ll follow your rules when I come to visit, until that time you never tell me what to do in my house. Understood?” The heat between the two, strongly built men could boil water as the younger soon backed. His father had a point, but it was still unappreciated. “Understood?!” A commanding voice that ordered men on the wall in the past demanded respect and received it with a reluctant nod.

Aodrenig watched his father walk away, then sat back down onto the small stool as he went back to work. With renewed purpose, he had to get these done in time. Sneaking into the tower guarded by a small militia loyal to the beasts would not be easy, he knew his chances were slim but, he also knew that their continued existence would keep his hometown forever in fear also. And that he could not allow.
Amidst the sawing, planing and occasional crash of extra wood being thrown into a large pile in the far corner, he recognized the familiar smacking of lips as his brother, Wesley approached. Eating as always.

“Heard you and father nearly got into it again over that barmaid,” his younger voice laughed, mouth full of food.

“If you’re here to insist that she’s like the others, we’ll have to go out back also,” he continued his whittling.

“I could care less, to be honest.” His brother sat upon the barrel to Aodrenig’s left and picked up the trio of stakes already made. “Are you insane?”

“Nearly.”

“I thought Jeffrey was joking when he said you looked like you were going vampire hunting. Is it true then?”

Aodrenig continued, not wanting any more distractions as the morning wore on. He was running out of time as it was. Wesley laughed, sending a small piece of half eaten bread onto the stake which he quickly cleaned off with his knife as he cut, then raised it to check the point. Nearly done.

“In that case, can I have your horse?”

Blue eyes looked up to the teenager’s face in disbelief. “Thanks for the support. No, I’m not giving you my horse.” The brown haired boy nodded as the realization that this wasn’t just a joke sank in.

“What can I do to help then?”

Aodrenig shook his head and continued his work. “Nothing, thanks anyway.” A long pause continued between them as he knew his family would already be at risk for last night’s fight and threats that he had made. He couldn’t allow them to suffer for his brashness. Visions of his mother and sister at the mercy of those animals made him sick to his stomach, thoughts that he pushed out of his mind. That wouldn’t happen, he determined.

Wesley sighed as he finished his breakfast. “Listen, I hate them too but, what you’re thinking of is suicide. You know that, right?”

“Think what you will.”

“What makes you think you can accomplish what so many in the past have failed at? You know their militia is full of fools who had the same dream. That has to give you some clarity of thought.”

“None of them had Arhus at their side or my training either.”

“Right,” his brother stood and turned to face him squarely. “You’ve got all the answers, as usual,” his raised voice returned Aodrenig to his previous, agitated state that his father had promoted. “How silly of me.” He turned and in a huff, yelled. “Fine, go get yourself killed then!”

Shaking his head in amazement, the would-be hero stood and collected his tools for this day’s venture. Strong hands grabbed his backpack, opened the flap and stuffed the stakes within, then headed to the stable door which lay open on the far side of the workshop. He wasn’t crazy, they were just under the spell of these manipulative demons that had plagued this town for too long.
Once inside, the air changed from burned and fresh wood to hay, fodder and the odor of horses. He walked down to the third stall and pulled back the gated door to his favorite steed. Rust colored, the light warhorse stomped the ground in anticipation, as if his friend knew today’s plan as well.

“Ready to go make a name for ourselves,” he smiled and gained a strong huff as he lifted the saddle blanket onto the strong back, then grabbed the saddle itself.

“I told you to be careful,” the familiar female voice called from behind him, prompting Aodrenig to turn and lay his eyes on the main reason he had to kill them. Jessica stood just a head shorter but, her raven hair, hazel-green eyes and gorgeous frame captivated the young warrior as he smiled dumbly. He wrapped his arms around her and kissed her passionately, then hugged her.

“I’m not going to let them hurt you, I promise.”

“What are you talking about?”

“They threatened to hurt you this morning. I won’t let that happen, I promise.” A vow that made her back a bit, still in his arms.

“Don’t listen to them,” she smiled sympathetically. “They can’t get into our homes unless we invite them in. Father Aeneus said so and many others have seen it firsthand.” Her eyes fell to his backpack and swordbelt, then rose back to him. “You’re not serious.”

“Remain here in town. Everything will be alright, I promise.” He kissed her again, taking in her fragrance, feeling her heartbeat and warmth against him. Not wanting the moment to end, he knew he had to get out to the keep. “I love you,” he smiled, turned and finished strapping on the saddle as she watched quietly.

“If you’re going to do this, it’s not for me,” she stated. “I appreciate the thought, but you’re crazy.”

He turned and couldn’t believe his ears. “If anyone could understand me, it’s you. All these months we’ve spent together, I’ve never told anyone the things you know.” A revelation that made her eyes fall from his gaze. “I’ll be back later.” He paused as she looked back up to him. “If I’m not...”

“I know,” Jessica nodded and smiled in defeat as she sighed. “I still think you’re out of your mind.”

“We’ll see, won’t we?” He climbed into the saddle, muscles still sore from this morning’s flight through the town not a few hours prior and prompted his mount forward through the large opening and into the narrow yard, then turned left as she watched him ride into the busy thoroughfare. He glanced back as he reined the horse right and noticed her wave goodbye, then lost his love from sight as people and buildings filled his view. Was he on a fool’s errand? Surely Arhus, the deity of justice would bless his venture to rid the land of those threatening the peace of Jedburgh for so long. They had been occupying that keep now for nearly five years and no one had found an answer to this plague yet, but he would be that shining example. The one the bards would sing about one day.
A wash of adrenaline gave him courage as it had to have been a divine blessing upon this brave knight.

Page 1 - Special Delivery

Sunlight shone through the tall pines as the horse plodded on, pulling the wagon at a slow pace so that Kavayen could keep his nine month old granddaughter from being bounced around. As the early spring breeze gently carressed his tired face, he gazed over to his left and admired the little girl swaddled in a thick, white blanket that his wife had woven for Kailee. She had given the older couple joy after losing their daughter the night Bianka had been attacked in the barn while trying to calm the horses. Kavayen never did find out what kind of beast was involved.
A smile creased his tanned face as the pair of green eyes smiled back at him from the small basket and brought a mix of emotions that he couldn't push away.

"I wish we could care for you, my love. But, you'll be safer with the church and we won't be far away." He sighed as he looked down the well traveled tan line that cut through the green canopy which joined the Davos Kingdom with the Frontier.

Soon, the side road to the Temple came into view and he pulled the reins and guided the laboring steads to the right. Not two years before he and his small family had stopped here for the night and his daughter had loved the man he was now on his way to see. If only he didn't have to make this trip.

Slowly, the stone building shrouded within large oaks came into view and strengthened his emotions. Pulling on the reins, he climbed down onto the grassy yard and rounded the wagon to gather the little girl who stared up into the boughs as the once cheery birds became silent. The crunching of Kavayen's boots seemed to echo in the eerie silence as he neared the oaken double doors and pushed them aside to enter the darkened training compound for clerics of Arhus.
He watched as a younger robed man approached, his light blue robes emblazoned with the black shield over crossed golden spears proudly displayed on the breast.

"How may I serve you, traveler?" he asked.

"I need to speak with Alisandro," Kavayen's steel grey eyes scanned beyond the double rows of columns for the alchemist.

"Is he expecting you?"

"No. Just inform him that his daughter is here."

With pause, the younger acolyte glanced at the basket, brow furrowed.

Page 2 - Longing

"I'll be right back," he stated, confusion in his voice.

Kavayen watched as the priest quickly headed to the far right corner of the temple whose shadow grew longer in the orange torchlight. Childish callings from the brown cradle hanging from his beefy left hand cut to his heart again. Maybe he could escape before Alisandro emerged from his dungeon laboratory, keep his granddaughter with he and his wife forever. His attention swung right to a small alcove and he noticed a small group of boys sitting attentively as they listened to their master's instruction.

'She belongs there, you know this,' his wife's voice stated in his mind as tears welled up again.

'I can acquire the money to care for her,' he argued with himself as he wiped his tanned cheek. They had had this argument before her reasoning sent him on this two day journey.
Suddenly, the creak of a heavy door echoed in the cavernous chamber and he again peered to the far side to notice the young alchemist slowly emerge from the dim light and approach. His wry smile made Kavayen's desperation turn to anger.

"I was informed you had arrived," Alisandro greeted as his brown eyes drifted to the basket. "It's good to see you again, how's Bianka?"

Kavayen bit his lip as his arm extended Kailee to her father. "This young lass is now the church's responsibility. My daughter is gone and we aren't able to care for young Kailee."

Alisandro stared dumbly for a moment, then reluctantly took the basket as he sighed. "My heart aches for your loss, sir."

"Spare me your empty sympathies, young man. You got what you wanted, all I ask is that you take responsibility for your actions," Kavayen huffed, turned on his heel and nearly ran to his wagon as Kailee's cries tore the peace in the temple apart.

* * *

Alisandro watched as the elder carpenter reined his tired horses and smacked them on the rump. The rumbling of wooden wheels and horses hooves quieted the baby's pleas for a moment as he looked down to the young girl. His heart warmed as he thought of Bianka and he on the banks of the Dovey River, not very distant from Laksay, the temple he lived and worked in now for seven years.
"I have much to tell you of your mother, young one," he beemed through misty eyes as another priest approached.

"What have you found, my friend," Brenan asked.

"My daughter," Alisandro proudly announced.

Brenan eyed him for a moment. "Surely you jest. You know you can't keep her here, the bishop would never allow that."

The realization hit him like a ton of bricks - more to add to the pile. He looked to the priest, "You're right, of course," then back to Kailee. "There's an orphanage in Inellan, I can take her there tomorrow. I have to attend to the market anyway."

Brenan softly brushed Kailee's cheek as the girl's cries softened. "She is beautiful, isn't she?"

Alisandro smiled, there had to be a way to postpone his trip to the eastern town for a day or two. His visits to the orphanage wouldn't come often enough and if Kailee was all he had left to remember those summer days, he wished to hold on to them as long as possible. His mind drifted to Bianka's blond hair and hazel-green eyes in the bright sunlight as they lay in the grass. He could still smell the wildflowers around them.
With a sigh, he turned and headed passed the beautifully adorned podium decorated with a brilliant maroon carpet, mahogany railings and hanging heraldry to the deity of justice and war hanging on the back wall. He pulled on the thick metal ring and opened the door to the stairwell that descended to the bowels of the compound. Down a well lit hallway and into the small study, he noticed the heavyset frame of Bishop Arcallah sitting on the long, red velvet couch. He shifted the basket to his left hand and hurried his steps in the hopes of not being discovered.

Kailee's soft cooings alerted the elder priest who lowered the book in his hands and glared. "Where are you taking that child?"

"To my chambers, my lord," Alisandro stopped.

"Why is that child going to your chambers?"

Sweat began to bead on his forehead as he shifted his weight. "I was just given charge of his child, sir, by her father. I'm going to take her to Inellan on the morrow."

Steel-grey eyes coldly stared, boring holes through the young alchemist from Solway who swallowed hard. "Why wasn't that child given to the Brother standing beside you?" the bishop referred to Brenan who had become his accomplice in this failed smuggling attempt.

"I happen to know the family, sir. I promise that she will be gone at daybreak."

The bishop lowered his arms, allowing the closed book to slap on his beefy thighs. "You're bringing a female into the chambers of the Templar of our great deity? Are you mad?"

"Kailee is not even a year old, sir. I promise that on the morrow she will be gone and I will keep her in my chambers until that time."

The bishop sighed heavily as he glared. "See that she is gone from here before breakfast." Alisandro nodded obediently and quickly continued on to his small bedroom, Brenan in tow.

Page 3 - Decision

He set the basket onto his small bed and headed over to the washbasin. A new day had dawned when he least expected it. Just that morning he was thinking about finishing his contract with the church here and heading home. Alisandro contemplated what he would have missed as he washed his face.

"Alisandro," Brenan called quietly from the foot of the bed which prompted the new father to turn.

"What is it," he asked as he dried his face and hands, noticing that the priest stood quietly for a moment as he eyed the little girl.

"We can't keep this child here," the priest stated apprehensively as he concentrated.

"I'll be taking her tomorrow, that's already been discussed."

Nervous eyes looked up to him. "No. We need to get her out of here now."

Alisandro tossed the towel aside as he approached the basket. "Why, what's wrong?"

"She's been cursed with some malady and if the brothers here sense her presence, all three of us could be tried and executed."

Alisandro studied his friends face for some sign of a joke but found none. "What kind of malady? She looks healthy to me."

"Trust me on this. The girl has to leave now. Didn't you wonder why her grandfather brought her to us," Brenan asked as he picked up the basket and headed for the door. Alisandro grabbed the priests arm and pulled him backwards and reached for his daughter.

"I'm serious, brother. You can't keep her here another moment," Brenan stressed in hushed tones as he glanced towards the door and any potential eavesdroppers.

Alisandro lifted Kailee out of the basket and held her to him protectively. "No one is taking her from me, do you understand. The bishop himself detected nothing, what makes you think your powers are greater than his?"

Brenan sighed as he glanced to the secured bundle. "Believe me when I say this, I admire your place now with having a child. However, not only would your father chastise you for having one out of wedlock but, he would also banish you for protecting this...thing."

Alisandro's blood began to boil and he could feel the heat in his face intensify. "You may leave," he spat. "I mean it, get out!"

Brenan stepped back. "You have no idea what you're protecting, my friend. Get her out of here." He turned, opened the door and exited as the alchemist glared. Tears began to flow as the heavy oaken door closed. He swallowed hard and looked down to the bright green eyes that studied him curiously. His mind raced as he tried to formulate a plan to keep her near without alarming the others until he remembered the large, empty storage room just a short distance from his bedroom. One to which only he held the key.

Page 4 - Vengence

The smell of pine, wildflowers and a hint of the pack of wolves not too far to her right awoke Kailee to another beautiful day in the forested mountains that she had called home for the past seventeen years. That's what Anush had told her anyway. He had become her mentor, adoptive father and the only one who truly understood her unique lifestyle. With her eyes still closed, she reached out with her senses and located the birds singing high in the boughs, focusing on each in turn. She could hear the heartbeats of the five timberwolves as they slept, feel the blood pump through their veins and she could smell the healing wound of the beta that he had received from a bear not three days ago.

Something on the wind didn't feel right this morning though. Concentrating on that feeling she followed it to the source. Down the gentle slope towards the cave that Anush lived in she followed the faint scent. The closer she reached to him, the more nervous she became - he wasn't there. Her vibrant green eyes unveiled as she sat up and looked through the surrounding trees towards his sanctuary. Rising, she headed down through the large green ferns and around tall columns of brownish grey bark to near the small, covered clearing to also find the scent of horses, leather and the body odor of six male humans who had been there. Her heart began to race as she realized that they had finally found him. Frantically, she ran into the cave and in the dim morning light, she spied the footprints in the soft dirt floor and followed the series of events as best as she could. Two of them had tripped his magical alarms while the other four charged in and caught Anush sleeping. Kailee walked over to his covered pallet and could tell from the embers in the hearth that the fire had been out when they ambushed him - and Anush couldn't see in the dark without a spell.

Desperation pumped through her lithe body and she turned back towards the entrance and looked out through the distant forest. She had to find them and save Anush before they took him to the town. In a flash, she sprinted out of the darkened home and blazed a trail along their path. Leaves and small branches exploded away from the blur as birds also took to flight and deer bolted in all directions. Kailee's anger was felt by all.

Soon, her nose found the small campsite for the group of mercenaries. She knew she couldn't alert the horses and stopped to catch her breath and formulate a plan of attack. Slowing her breathing, Kailee closed her eyes and concentrated as Anush had taught her. Within moments, the tall, beautiful girl vanished from sight to blend with her surroundings. She reopened her eyes and stalked her prey, quietly gliding through the underbrush until she reached the edge of the camp, not a few feet from the back of one of the hired thugs.

"Bishop Anaeas is going to be pleased with us this time," a younger soldier stated from the right edge of the circular clearing bordered on the far side by a fallen trunk. "This reward is going to finally get me that house that Janice has been hounding me about."

"And get Marcus out of debt," another grey bearded fighter added from the left as he tossed a broken twig at his sleeping neighbor.

"That would take many outlaws of the church for him to get caught up," a fourth jokingly revealed as he ripped a chunk of deer meat suspended from his dagger.

Kailee concentrated and reached out to find the body of Anush beyond her sight, hanging in a bag over the saddle of one of the horses to her left. Angry tears began to flow from glowing eyes as the edges of the deep green took on a red tinge. Gritting her teeth, she attacked. With the strength of three men, she threw the body of the man in front of her hiding spot into his friend to the right, then leaped on the others, slashing their necks with her claws until she faced the last two who stood entranced. Their fear gave her strength that she fed off of as flashes of Anush's smile and caring over the years made her vision go to blood red as she tore into the remaining mercenaries. In the midst of horses cries and groaning men, she turned on the remaining fighter who ran for his life from the death that had come to visit them. With a burst, she leaped onto his back, grabbed his head and chest, then bit into his neck with her fangs as she broke his spine with a hungry yank. Planting her feet, she dropped the limp body onto the ground as she panted from the exhilarating encounter.

She closed her eyes as she raised her head into the sky and tried to regain control over the beast inside her. Anush told her that her other half wasn't who she was and if she could control it, it could be a powerful ally in the future. This was one incident where she didn't mind that darker side taking over. As she relaxed, claws and fangs disappeared as the evil glow in her eyes faded and she returned to claim the body of her only friend and carried him back to his cave. In the silence, she buried him as a soft rain began to fall. The weather mirrored the way she felt as she balled up on the soft earth and cried.

Soon, the muzzle of the alpha male softly brushed against her cheek as the wolves offered their sympathies and eventually gathered Kailee and took her back out of the cave and up the mountain. As the clouds overhead took on deeper maroon and blue colors, she sat on the edge of the high cliff and stared out over the rolling green landscape far below.

'I will never leave you, my love,' a familiar, deep voice from far away reminded. 'All others will treat you with trepidation, but I understand who and what you are. We are the same in many ways, like I've told you in the past. I enjoy what you've become and I see amazing things in the future for you, Kailee. With my help, you will become great.'

"Who are you, you've never told me that." She always felt nervous when his voice interrupted her thoughts.

'I am Sater, your father. I've watched over you when that weak human, Anush couldn't. I used him to train you and now that his task is complete, I look forward to showing you more. You are never alone.' Kailee took solace in that thought now that her mentor was gone.

'Humans have chased and hunted you since you were born, they can't be trusted. To them you are a beast that can't be allowed to have a place in the world, but you will outlive them all. Feed off of their fear and it will make you stronger, as you saw today.'

"When will you allow me to see you?"

'Soon. I'm sending someone to free you from this prison and take you to a place where you can begin your journey. It's time to enter the next stage of your life, my daughter.'

Kailee could feel the warmth of his presence fade as the evening sun dipped below the distant mountains. A cool breeze softly brushed the tall grass around her and her long, light brown hair. She finally felt at peace.

Page 5 - Rescue

Kailee fell to sleep near the base of a large chestnut. As darkness in her mind faded, it gave way to a lavish room filled with tall candles in a wide circle around a thickly pillowed center. A heavy acrid smoke filled her senses as the room slowly came into focus. The heavy red fog shrouded someone else also, just beyond her sight. But she could feel his dark taint in her very being hovering in the darkness.

"You wished to see me, my love," the deep, reverberating voice cut through the seemingly small bedroom. "I have nothing to hide from you and I welcome you into my embrace...forever. All you have to do is ask and I will give it."

Kailee suddenly felt a shiver run up her spine and frantically began looking for a way out. She moved away from the dim candlelight and reached out through the thick cloud to find a door or window. There had to be an exit somewhere.

"If you wish to leave, then fine. But know this, I will never be more than a thought away."

Sitting up, Kailee took a deep breath as she spun around looking for the dark presence. Moonlight picked out the shallow edge and the trees around to the west of her. But something else was approaching from down the mountain. Kneeling, she leaned on the tree and peered around the trunk to finally see torches moving slowly towards her hiding place. Focusing her attentions on the group she could smell the body odor of men. They had come to get vengeance for their fallen comrades. She closed her eyes as she leaned her head on the tree.

"Please get me out of here. I'm tired of running," she pleaded as desperation set in.

Suddenly, to her left a door opened up in midair at the edge of the cliff. She watched in wonder as several people filed out into the night with one odd woman standing in the doorway. Was this the answer to her prayers? She knew that the hunters were not far away and quickly glanced down through the trees and could see the torches drawing nearer.

"Get down," she pleaded quietly which gained the attention of all of them. "They'll see you."

"Who's coming," a large, well armed man asked.

"Men from the town. They'll kill us. Hide."

A smaller female approached and crouched beside her. "You don't need to be afraid of them," she informed as she reached out her hand. "Come on, we'll get you out of here."

Kailee felt a kinship with this one as she remembered the words of Sater, "I'm sending someone to free you from this prison..." He had heard her after all.

"You there," one of the mercenaries called out. "Where is she?"

"Who are you talking about," the other male fighter returned.

"We're here to kill the beast who's been hunting our livestock and has killed our children in the night. If you've seen her, inform us immediately."

Kailee knew she had never done any of those things, they couldn't be talking about her as she watched the two men and their female scout square off on the locals.

"There's no one here but us, move along," the larger of her saviors instructed forcefully.

"I'll not be barked at, son," the elder of the hunting party countered. "If you're harboring the beast, I suggest you turn her over."

One of the fighters stepped up as he swung, "We told you to leave," which started a fight. Kailee watched as the trio's silhouettes in the night attacked the armed mob and chased the remaining ones into the woods.

"Alister, let them go," the larger one implored.

Kailee rose and amidst the moans of the dying townspeople, she felt relief. She turned to the petite brunette standing to her left and finally took her hand.

"I'm Tia," she introduced.

"Kailee, nice to finally meet you."

Tia stared for a moment, then led her to the door and the second female whose blood smelled odd. "This is Elsea," Tia informed as the doorguard shouldered her bow.

"Hello," she nodded hesitantly. "What is this place?"

Kailee looked back to the forest as the rest of their companions approached. "This was where I was born." She felt a moment of hesitation knowing that Anush's home was down there along with the wolves that she had grown up around. This was it, she thought as her eyes scanned the forest and distant hills. Time for the new life, as Sater put it.

Page 6 - Home of Illusion

Kailee sighed as the group closed around her.

"Kailee, this is Lericanin, Alister, and Avion," Tia introduced as they eyed her in turn.

"There has to be some sort of gate in the doorway," Elsea finally interrupted as they studied the portal and Kailee finally looked beyond the taller girl to see a stone hallway and several doors beyond flanked by dimly lit mountains and the river gorge below that she had always known. Anush said such magics existed.

"Come on," Lericanin instructed. "We should get out of here."

As they all retreated back into the hallway, Kailee stole one last look around and then followed Tia into the dank, musty tunnel as Avion brought up the rear. As she scanned their armor, weapons and demeanor, Kailee gripped Tia's hand a bit tighter. She had never allowed herself to be this trusting before with strangers.

"Umm, everyone," Avion called quietly which prompted all of them to peer back over her shoulder in awe. Kailee turned and noticed through the doorway that they had just entered, the forest was now replaced by a grey room of flagstone. Her brow furrowed as she wondered if their gate had suddenly closed and left the room that had originally been there.

"Can someone explain that?" Avion wondered aloud as she glanced to Tia.

Torchlight glinted off of small bluish stones inset into the floor and caught Kailee's attention as Elsea moved around them and knelt in the doorway. She watched as the brunette had apparently found the same thing and began prying at it with her dagger.

"Found something that looks like an inscribed marker," Elsea informed as she popped the smooth, rounded protrusion and stood to show the others. "Tia, you're more familiar with this sort of thing," she mused as she handed Kailee's companion the rock.

"That's exactly what it is." She eyed Kailee sympathetically. "You've been living in there your whole life?"

She nodded, wondering what was in the mage's mind.

"What's that symbol mean," Lericanin asked as he pointed to the etched rune.

"It's been used for the illusion that was in there," Tia returned.

They all stared at her quietly.

"So," Elsea began. "You're saying that someone put Kailee in there and had her trapped in this illusion that even smelled like a forest?"

Tia nodded as she placed the rock into a small pouch hanging on her belt as Avion closed the door.

"And you're saying that you've been in there your whole life," Elsea reaffirmed.

Kailee nodded as she studied the hazel-green eyes and sharper features of the attractive archer whose defenses seemed to lower a bit.

Lericanin and Alister finally led the group down the hallway as Kailee stole a glance into a doorway on the left as they passed. The spartan bedroom felt familiar somehow and she began to wonder if her real parents lived here as she began to process the group's discovery. Amidst years of dust and spiderwebs, she knew that this underground complex had been the home to many individuals as they strolled through a ransacked dining room and into a large study. Burned books and furniture littered the once stately room and she began to fear that whoever may know her true past may be gone. She pushed those things out of her mind as she sighed gaining Tia's attention as boots reverberated off of another long hallway now lit by a torch which Avion retrieved.

"How old are you," Kailee asked.

"Sixteen, you?"

"Anush told me I was seventeen recently," she answered quietly as they ascended a stairwell and exited into the daylight. Kailee's eyes scanned the ruin of some large building now open to the blue sky which seemed to burn her head and arms a bit. She looked around and soon noticed the blackened bodies lying beyond the rubble in the tall grass.
"Who were they?"

"Priests of Arhus," Lericanin informed as he headed towards them, unshouldered his round shield and picked up a shovel.

Kailee turned to Tia," Who's Arhus?"

"He's the deity of justice and war, supposedly," she added under her breath as she led Kailee towards a large oak and sat down. Elsea kept them both in her sights as the grave digger was joined by Alister and Avion.

The soft burning slowly dissipated as they watched the solemn occasion which Lericanin finished with a prayer in the sight of the lowering sun. Afterwards, they all headed through the thick woods to a campsite where other men worked and ate around two large wagons, their horses tied to a tether soon became agitated. Kailee stopped at the sight of the others.

Tia stopped with her, "Don't worry, these men are part of a merchants caravan, they won't hurt you. I promise."

Reluctantly, Kailee walked into the camp bordered by a wide, fast flowing river. From the other side, she could see workcrews on barges finishing a section of the wooden frame.

"What are they doing?" she asked.

"They're building a new bridge. The old one was wooden and had been destroyed by bandits a month or two ago. A mage in that camp is using his magic to create one of stone," Tia informed as they approached a third wagon and rounded to sit near the rear wheel. She glanced to Kailee who still had not let go of her hand and sat right beside her. "So I take it that this Anush was your...?"

Kailee eyed her new friend. "My what?"

"Was he related?"

"No. He was my friend and teacher. He taught me how to read and write and also how to survive in the woods." Kailee looked away as emotions began to well. Turning her attention to Lericanin as he gathered meat and began to cook helped stave off the tears as Avion sat nearby with Elsea to her right. She smelled leather around Avion's chest and wondered why the narrow strip was there underneath her shirt.
"Have you been wounded?"

Avion shot her a confused stare. "What?"

Kailee motioned to her own chest. "Were you hurt?"

The thin scout eyed the rest of the group nervously and Kailee realized she had uncovered something that she should leave alone.

"No, I'm fine. Alister, you need some help over there," she offered as she rose and escaped the attention of her companions who then studied Kailee.

"Who were those hunters looking for when we found you," Lericanin asked as his concoction began to smell fairly good.

"I don't know," she defended. "I never did those things they said. I never even went into their town, Anush said that those people would kill both of us."

"Did he say why?"

"Anush followed Sater and those people didn't like that."

Lericanin's thick eyebrows shot up. "Really. And who do you follow?"

Kailee noted the nervousness of the tattooed fighter as he set the large spoon on the rim of the pot. "I don't need anyone else. I survive on my own. Anush tried to explain what he believed but, it just seemed like a waste of time to me."

He nodded and quietly attended their dinner again. Kailee could sense that she still had a lot to learn about her new companions as she studied the red circle over his brow. Centered was a black shield over crossed yellow spears.

"What's that mean?" she finally asked him as she pointed to her own forehead.

"That's the symbol of Arhus, my god. That signifies who I'm devoted to and that he leads my steps."

"Did he mark you?"

Lericanin smiled. "No. But I'm proud to let everyone I know who I serve, especially the enemy before they die."

Page 7 - Inellan

As a gentle rain fell the next morning, Kailee lay beside Tia underneath the wagon and absently watched the flowing river beyond their encampment. Who had put her in that room and why? She had been living in a world that was totally fabricated in someone else's imagination which had to have drawn from the ability of someone more powerful than she had met. Unless...

'Hello, my love. I told you I'd get you out of that prison. Am I not one of my word?'

'Yes," she thought in return, sensing his dark presence more fully now than she had recently. Even the strong scent of the candles in his chamber permeated the air around her as she could almost see their smoke evanesce into the morning mist.

'This young girl at your side will help you expand your magical ability and become your sister. Keep close to her. She and her family are of the true faith and will answer many of your questions. Keep your distance from Lericanin, he's been misled by a bloodthirsty deity who seeks our destruction. You will learn this in time when you see how the priests of that hypocritical church react to you. Trust in me.'

The last thing Kailee wanted was to be caught up in some religious tug of war.

'I've trusted in my own ability all these years, what do I need you for?'

'Who do you think fed you when you were a baby?! Who kept you alive when men and clerics of Arhus wanted you dead?! You will see how these people you travel with treat you with mistrust and you will come to worship me as your own. I am the only one that cares for you, Kailee.'

She pushed him out of her mind as she rolled over and viewed the brunette beside her as she gently slept, totally oblivious of the presence that had just inhabited the narrow dry space with them. A chill coursed through her body as she admired the soft, round face and long brown hair. With everything that she had been hit with these past few hours, could she trust this seemingly innocent girl whose company she had come to find solace in? Time would tell.

After a day-and-a-half of riding on a reluctant horse behind Tia, they finally reached her companion's home in Inellan. The tall, round tower was protected by a four square moat with the only joining to the farm houses and barns being a narrow stone bridge. Along with the serfs who tended the small fields around the clearing, they also noticed a small group of men-at-arms standing around their mounts at the head of the bridge. Kailee noticed the yellow surcoat with a simple black line across the shoulders and neck of the well armed and armored fighters who eyed them as the newly arrived group dismounted near the closest barn.

"I have to go inside and announce us," Tia mentioned. Kailee could tell her friend was a bit nervous as she headed towards the armed group.

"You want me to come with you?" Kailee asked.

Tia turned and eyed her for a moment. "Sure," she nodded and led to the main door that topped a protected staircase whose contour followed the base of the four story tower.

Kailee stole a glance at the men-at-arms who stared and smiled at the two teenagers as they headed inside. There was something about their attention that made Kailee's skin crawl.

"My lady," an older gentleman greeted as they walked inside the well appointed great room. "It is good to see you again."

"Thank you, Charles. Would you see to our baggage and lodging for my friends?"

"Right away," the obedient reply as he began preparations upstairs.

As Kailee's eyes met the trio of older men near the elegantly dressed woman that Tia approached, a tingle raced up her spine as she began to feel nauseated. She stopped short of them and watched.

"Mother," Tia greeted.

"Tiaonna," her mother returned with a quick hug. "Gentlemen, you know my daughter," she quickly presented to the well dressed man to her right. "My lord, Sir Philip, Baron of Inellan," she motioned and Kailee noticed the long, brown leather riding coat that nearly covered the black sheath hanging from his belt.

Tia curtsied as she offered her hand to him. He took and kissed it. "Alysia, I didn't think anyone as radiant as you existed. It's an honor to finally meet you, Tia. Your mother's told us so much about you."

"Milord."

"And Milord's Chamberlain, Sir Gavril," she motioned to the knight whose short, greying black hair and clean shaven face befitted the polished armor and thick gold chain that hung around his shoulders.

All attention then turned to the overweight, beautifully adorned man whose pasty jowls and fat fingers made Kailee realize where her fear was coming from. "Tia, this is Vicar Dzeron Bakur, representing our beloved patron deity and graces our home this day with his blessings."

Tia bowed to the priest as he smiled politely, then quickly reclaimed his seat and silver goblet. She then turned to her mother as Kailee swallowed hard, trying to push away the sickness.

"Mother, I need to talk to you."

"Soon," the older baroness stated flatly as she also sat down. "See to your friends."

"My Lady Alysia, who is this beautiful young lady," the priest asked as his eyes undressed Kailee.

"This is my friend, Kailee," Tia introduced as she retreated from the high browed affair and rejoined the uncomfortable guest. She followed Tia quickly back out of the great room and up the rounded staircase as Kailee breathed a sigh of relief to be away from those men. Her nausea also faded as they finally reached Tia's bedroom.

"Are you alright?" Kailee asked as she shut the door behind her.

"I'm not sure. My mother's appetite for potential suitors has grown with her ambition."

"What do you mean?"

Tia sat on the foot of the large, flowery quilt of maroon, gold and white and eyed her. "How do you think we could afford to live like this? My previous stepfather used to own this estate until he had a hunting accident . Don't tell anyone else about this, okay?"

Kailee nodded. "You can trust me."

"I also don't like the fact that the priest is here. We're going to have to be careful. Some of my mother's friends in the area aren't very popular with the church and if word got out of our beliefs, my mother and I would be executed."

"Why?"

"We also follow Sater. He's the enemy of Arhus, Yaeby, Elminoir and Archantael. Their followers hunt anyone not affiliated with them to either convert or cleanse the world of us. The temple that we found you in was attacked and razed a few months ago. It used to be a training compound for priests and templar of Arhus and everyone thinks that the attack was by goblins and orcs and that's what the kingdom needs to believe."

Kailee moved around the large chest at the foot of the bed to sit beside her hostess. "I take it that's not what actually happened."

Tia shook her head.

"Why would your mother have them here?"

"Keep your friends close, your enemies closer."

Page 8 - Danger and Discovery in Inellan

Kailee awoke the next morning to the sounds of cooing pigeons on the window sill, activity downstairs and Tia's gentle breathing. She had noticed how inundated her senses had become since being freed from her cell and enjoyed the discoveries. As she concentrated, her nose followed the familiar cooking fire from the hearth which took her back to Anush's cave each day. She never understood why he wasted meat the way he did but, he always stated that normal people ate that way.

Quietly, she rose and tried not to wake her new sister who had stayed up late the previous night getting caught up with her mother who she apparently hadn't seen in some months. Kailee just admired that Tia knew her mother as she pulled the quilt back up over the now empty space and got dressed. She padded to the laquered oak door and slowly pulled it open and crept out into the hallway lit by a high, narrow window at the end of the short corridor.

"Where are you sneaking off to," Avion asked from the stairway as she approached.

"I didn't want to wake Tia," she explained as she closed the door.

Avion nodded and glanced towards their friends bedroom. "How did you know about the leather piece?" She asked, motioning to her breast.

"I could smell it."

"Smell? I guess all that time in the forest attuned your senses quite well." Her eyes sank.

"I'm sorry if I revealed something you didn't want anyone else to know."

Dimly glinting in the morning light, Avion's short auburn hair framed her olive complexion and blue eyes quite well. Had Kailee not known better, she would've mistaken the gypsy for a young boy.

"What else has your senses told you?" Avion quietly asked. "About me, I mean."

"I know that your diet has changed within the past few months and that you're in the time of women right now."

Avion's eyes went wide as she backed. "How's that possible? I'm not a girl."

Kailee's brow furrowed as she studied her subject. "Boys don't go through that, Anush said so." Kailee knew that Avion wasn't as she was and therefore couldn't be exempt from nature. "You haven't told them, have you? Don't worry, I won't say anything." Her list of secrets was growing.

"While we're on the subject, why don't you eat Lericanin's cooking?"

"I feed from deer when I first kill them. Anush said that fresh was best and that he knew many people who got diseases from allowing meat to sit too long. When I hunted once a week the kill usually went to Anush and the wolves."

"Why's that? No one can survive on only one meal a week," Avion became more defensive.

Kailee smiled. "Avion, have I given you any reason not to trust me? All of you saved me from that mob and I owe you my life. I wouldn't dream of hurting any of you."

Avion nodded but she could tell that it would take a while for them to trust her. "How's Elsea feeling," Kailee asked.

"She's not doing well right now. She's burning up and has complained of stomach cramps. I thought that we could go into town and get some herbs to help."

"Should I get Tia up?"

Avion bit her lip," We probably should wake everyone."

Soon the group congregated in the barn as Alister prepared the wagon for departure. During the short ride into the town, Kailee gathered up all she could of the surroundings as they passed: cooking fires, flowers growing in the spring morning along the road and near the farms, fresh bread, soups and molasses cooking in hearths, people working in the fields and their pets and children playing in the neighboring woods as they shirked their chores as birds sang praises to a new day.

"Can you feel that," she asked Tia as they approached the western gate.

"What?"

Kailee motioned to the surrounding blue sky, green forest and the cacophany of life as a perpetual smile creased her young face.

Tia chuckled. "No, but it seems you're doing enough for all of us."

Kailee turned and sat on the bench seat and faced Avion. "It's a shame that I can't share this with you." Her enthusiasm quickly waned as they entered the town and her eyes caught sight of Vicar Bakur as he picked through a woman's basket, then sent her on her way with an arrogant wave.
They turned left to traverse one of the main thoroughfares until stopping in front of a boisterous tavern. Garbage, sewage and body odor was now accented with alcohol and tobacco smoke which nearly made her sick.

"Welcome to the joys of civilization," Tia joked as they unloaded out of the back of the wagon and headed inside. Kailee renewed her grip on her friends hand as they entered the darkened room filled with armed men in uniform colors who now appreciated the scenery as the girls passed.

"I wonder what's going on," Alister, the usually silent fighter asked as they finally found a place to sit.

"Probably mustering for the march south," Lericanin mused as he studied their surroundings. "I've heard that Zariva is calling for reinforcements."

"What's going on there," Kailee queried.

"Orc raids on farms and mills on the frontier is making everyone nervous. I was talking to one of the guards at your mother's estate last night and he mentioned that the king is mobilizing all of the duchies," he informed as he eyed Tia.

"You feeling left out," Avion asked the veteran of the army of Kecel, another southern duchy.

"A bit, yes. But, I swore my life to Elsea's quest and I'm going to see that through."

"Speaking of which," Tia began. "We need to get to the apothecary for those components I need."

Suddenly, an older soldier in platemail entered the front door. "To horse! We are to Zariva, men," he announced and faded back into the daylight as the whole room seemed to rise and filter out into the street, quickly leaving them alone with the innkeeper.

"Alright," Lericanin straightened. "Alister and I are going to hit the market and try to sell the hafts I've made and we'll meet you here after."

Kailee rose with Tia and Avion and they strolled back out into the daylight to see the rear of the column marching through the market and heading to the southern gate. As they neared an alleyway, Tia suddenly was jerked aside by a disheveled thug as his three friends reached for Kailee and Avion. Reacting, she punched the first in the face as she moved to help Tia. Avion wrestled with the other two and kicked one in the groin as she produced a knife from her right sleeve and slashed at the dodging assailant. Anger quickly fueled Kailee's movements as she punched at Tia's kidnapper as her friend tried to free herself, sending him backwards, giving Tia the opportunity to reach for his knife. Kailee turned back to her first target and noticed his eyes go wide. He turned and tried to flee as she reached down, grabbed a broken piece of wood and hurled it at his back, peircing him between the shoulder blades with enough force to send him sprawling into the mud face first. She turned as Avion cut one of the boys across the chest and turn on the second with a spin move as she caught him in the thigh. Screaming, they both hit the ground as Kailee noticed Tia's adversary run for his life.
Her heart pumped and she could feel the urge to tear them limb from limb as the tans and browns turned to red with each breath.

"Are you alright," Tia asked as she neared and stopped. Kailee quickly calmed herself as she noticed wide eyes as both girls went from shades of red and maroon to colorize back to normal.

"I'm fine, are you injured?" Anger quickly turned to concern as she could feel her face flush.

"No," Tia shook her head as they both eyed Avion. "That was some display."

"They shouldn't have jumped us. Next time they'll know better," she eyed the pair that she had fought stumble off into the crowd and disappear.

"We should go, Tia began as three armed men approached and stopped them.

"What goes on here," the sergeant asked as he peered over Kailee's shoulder to the body still lying in the road.

"We were attacked and were forced to defend ourselves," Tia explained.

The older man smirked as he studied them. "You're trying to tell me that two girls and this young man fought off a gang? You sure this wasn't a jealous boyfriend that's now counting on your word to keep him out of the dungeon?"

A worn man stepped out of the crowd and approached, gaining the sergeants attention. "What can I do for you, Adam?"

"I saw the whole thing, sergeant. These three were attacked and fought off Devlin and his brothers who all had knives drawn. They had no choice."

Steel grey eyes studied the witness, then glanced to the body. "And what of him?"

"I did that to defend these children from certain death. This young lady is Tiaonna, daughter of Lady Alysia. I know her ladyship will appreciate your quick responsiveness to this near-tragedy."

"Alright," he eyed Tia and half bowed. "You shouldn't be traveling without some type of escort, milady. These streets can be dangerous."

"Thank you, sir." They watched the militia head to the downed thug as Kailee noticed the witness wink at Tia and then disappear into the crowd.

Page 9 - Complications

After their business in Inellan, the group returned to the estate as a gentle rain began to fall, creating more vivid greens and browns in the surrounding woods. Lericanin was able to sell the hafts he had made which apparently had kept the group in what little money they needed as they traveled. As the pine boundary broke, they saw the fields and homes that bordered the estate as the horses plodded on in the thickening muddy road.

"I'm planning on enclosing this wagon as soon as we can," Lericanin announced as they neared the barn.

"That'll be nice," Tia stated from beneath her hooded cloak which vainly kept out the moisture.

Avion steered the large steads into the dry building and pulled on the reins which prompted the group to hop out onto the dirt and hay covered floor. Two younger stableboys moved to begin unhitching the wagon as Alister did the same while Kailee followed Tia towards the keep.

"I hope my mother is back," Tia stated as they neared the bridge.

"Where did she go," Avion asked, arms holding the bag of herbs and other items they had bought.

"No telling. Charles told me this morning that she had an appointment and that she was expected back this evening."

Kailee noticed the apprehension in her voice and wondered if the visit yesterday by the town's elders had anything to do with her mother's absence. Across the stone bridge and into the home, they headed quickly upstairs to see to Tia's patient. Kailee wished that she had the magic's to help, she had felt so helpless lately. Each of them had their expertise and she was still trying to find a way to fit in.

Elsea lay in her sweat soaked bed and looked pale making Kailee wonder if they would be able to save her at all.

"What's wrong with her," she asked as Avion unloaded the contents of the large sack onto a small end table near the bed.

"Hopefully just an allergic reaction to something she ate. I don't know right now," Tia informed as she produced a mortar and pistle to begin concocting the medication.

"She's not human, is she," Kailee mused which gained the attention of both girls.

"No," Tia began. "She's a half-elf from the elven kingdom of Tywyn, far to the northwest. Her parents were murdered in a coup and she and her brother were sped to safety by a cleric. She's trying to find a necklace that belonged to her father and proves her brother's rights to the throne."

"She's a princess?"

"Yes," Tia informed as she began mixing leaves and berries.

Kailee watched as Tia worked her natural magic and fed their sick compatriot the newly formed juice. Now, only time would tell but the prognosis looked good as Charles gently knocked on the door and pushed it open.

"My lady, dinner is served."

"Thank you, Charles. Is my mother home yet?"

"No, ma'am. But we expect her at any moment."

Tia nodded as she wiped her hands and headed for the door. "Avion, let her rest. We'll come back up in a bit to check on her."

"I'd rather stay, if that's alright. Can Charles bring me up something?"

"Okay."

As they headed downstairs, Kailee turned to Tia. "You were telling me about combining your meditation with prayers. How do you do that?"

"I"ll show you in the morning. We'll leave before everyone else wakes to ensure our privacy. My mother had a small shrine built in the woods west of here which is where we also make our offerings during the festivals."

Early that next morning, Kailee walked with Tia through the morning mist now dimly colored a light grey as the sky began to lighten to a blue. Their quiet footfalls echoed softly in the covered pathway as they headed south while birdsong in the distance welcomed them. The cool dampness was soon interrupted by the odors of someone laying in the grass off of the narrow road which made Kailee slow and concentrate on the familiar individual.

"Tia, Lericanin is near," she whispered and turned her face to the southeast.

"What?"

Kailee pointed. "Over there, in the grass." She also noted a strong scent that she had never encountered before on him as he rested.

Crashing through the tall grass and fallen branches, they neared the carpenter as he stared into the boughs, half dressed.

"Lericanin," Tia knelt nearby. "What are you doing out here?"

"Can't be. There's no way she'd be this far north, couldn't have been."

"What are you talking about, who?"

Lericanin pulled up his pants and sat up, grass matted to his hair and back as he shook his head. "There's no way."

"Lericanin," Tia called louder. "Who are you talking about?"

He turned to her as Kailee looked on. "Nyrellia. She was here with me last night." Emotion began to well in his voice as Kailee was a bit confused.

"There was no one else here with you," Kailee informed as they both turned to her.

"What?" Lericanin asked, confused. "No, that's not possible. I was with her last night, she was right here."

"Trust me, you were alone."

Tia stood and faced the keep. "Unless... Lericanin, come back to the barn. I have something to take care of."

He rose and pulled on his shirt. "Wait a second. How can you tell I was alone?"

"I only smell you here. You weren't with anyone last night."

Lericanin stared blankly for a moment as a large hand wiped his dark hair back. Tia began to head home in a hurry with the others in tow. Kailee could feel the anger well in her sister and she wondered what was coming.

The victim headed to the barn where he had been sleeping during their visit as Kailee followed Tia inside the keep. She could see Lady Alysia at the dinner table eating breakfast as Tia stormed up to her.

"Mother, why?!"

"Why what?"

"Why did you do that to my friend?"

Mature hazel green eyes looked up as Alysia sat back and glanced to Kailee. "His nose was somewhere it didn't belong. You know what we've had to endure to survive over the years."

"What did you do?"

The baroness leaned forward, her words bit the air like venom. "I kept his mind on things that he understands instead of spying on us. You realize that if word gets out about our true nature that we'd both be dragged out of here in chains. You included. You just do your part and I'll do mine, understand?"

Tia spun on her heel and stormed out of the dining area. Kailee watched the Lady's face that went from anger to anguish as she watched her daughter leave. They both went upstairs and gathered their things as Tia then led to Elsea's room. She and Avion were just waking up.

"Elsea, how are you feeling?" Tia asked as they entered the room.

"I'm fine, thank you for your help."

Tia nodded. "Pack up, we're leaving," she instructed, still irritated.

"Okay," Avion said, confusion in her eyes. "What's happened?"

"Nothing. We'll talk about it later."

They helped get Elsea prepared to leave and assisted her down the stairs to see Lady Alysia at the bottom, waiting patiently. She handed Tia a small pouch. "Take this, it will help her condition and there's others in there for the future."

Tia took the gift quietly and led the others to the door as Charles opened it for the quartet.

"Thank you for your hospitality, milady," Elsea's tired voice stated as they left.

"You're welcome."

Kailee followed to the barn as Alister and Lericanin were heading to a clearing for their morning workout.

"Morning, ladies," Alister greeted.

"Get the wagon ready," Tia directed. "We're leaving."

Nodding, the husbandman turned and headed quickly back to the barn as Lericanin intercepted them. "What happened last night?"

"You were under the affects of a spell, I'm sorry."

He eyed her for a moment, then glared towards the stone tower, gripping his warhammer tightly.

"Let's just go," Tia pleaded.

Lericanin nodded reluctantly and they were soon on the road.

Page 10 - Reunion

Lumbering on, the completed wagon - enclosed and keeping the group's equipment and extra clothing dry - creaked and heaved with the terrain as Kailee looked over Avion's shoulder in the drivers bench. They had left Bakony nearly a week ago and were heading back west to Carbost, but first they would have to stop in the weighstation of Borge'.Their search for the missing necklace had come to a dead end, but they had found that the thief sold it in the western kingdom of Baden.
The ground had risen for the whole day and Kailee was excited to see the land west of the temple that she had been kept in. Soon, grey walls came into view and rose as they neared. She noted the difference in architecture immediately. Tall statues of warriors flanked the wide doors open to traffic as the walled compound straddled the only highway west of the border from Inellan.

"Who lives here," she asked as the echo of horses hooves and heavy wheels bounced off of the flagstone within the gateway.

"Mechant families and a few dwarves," Avion informed. "If you wanted any armor or weapons, this would be the place to get it."

Kailee trusted in her abilities and the longsword that she had been given. Armor would just slow her down, she thought as they neared the central street bordered by a smithy on their left across from a large, four-square building that appeared like a keep. She followed Elsea and Tia out of the back door as her ears were suddenly inundated with the clanging in the smithy as it drowned out most of the immediate sounds. Curious, she walked over to the opening that fronted the main workroom. Bellows labored to keep the forges hot as she finally noticed the squat, bearded men hammering out their creations. They were a curious lot as she had never seen a dwarf before, their sweat was pungent and full of alcohol. She listened as their heartbeats sounded out a melody in time with the pounding of the hammer.

"What do you want, lass," a gruff voice called from the shadows to the right. She turned and noticed the bulky muscles lifting a flagon to a carbon smeared face that approached as Lericanin also stepped up.

"Nothing, thank you. I was just watching."

He nodded as the pewter tankard lowered and alcohol dribbled down his long beard.

"You sure, I've got the money," Lericanin offered.

"I'm fine. Metal armor would only slow me down."

The proprietor chuckled as he eyed the man nearly two feet taller than he. Kailee knew a confrontation would be interesting, albeit short as she headed into the keep where Elsea and Tia had gone to secure lodging. Up four broad stairs and into a great hall, she noticed that the owner had turned the keep into a large tavern and inn. The central hearth burned brightly as two older women tended to the remains of a cow suspended over the fire. Others sat spread around the large room in pairs and small groups as she moved to a long table and bench and waited for Tia and the princess.

Kavayen shouldered his backpack and carried his wife's inside to see Elizabeth paying for their lodging. They had gone to Bakony to seek out Alisandro after they had heard about the attack on Laksay, but couldn't find out what had happened his granddaughter, Kailee. That day still haunted him as he dropped the brown leather pack on the stone floor and sat down as he waited. Assaulting his nose, the beef smelled just right and after their long ride, he was ready. He glanced across the narrow alley to a table and noticed the beautiful sandy haired girl who watched quietly. Her green eyes, the nose and browline reminded him so much of his daughter. He smiled and looked back as Elizabeth brought two plates of food to their table and sat across from him.

"Sure looks good," he stated drawing his dagger and began eating.

"The girl is bringing us some bread." Kavayen eyed her as he chewed and noticed her glance to the young girl also, then back to him.

"Looks just like her, doesn't she?"

Elizabeth's eyes sank as she nodded, burying her attention to her meal. That night, seventeen years ago haunted them both, apparently. Neither had spoken about it at length since then and Kavayen wasn't that eager to bring it up right now either.

Tia and Elsea approached with their packs and set them on the bench beside them as they sat down.

"All set," Elsea began. "Looks like we pick out a place on the floor around the room and make ourselves comfortable."

"No rooms?" Kailee asked.

"No. Only for nobility it seems."

She didn't mind, Kailee had gotten used to sleeping on the ground most of her life. One more night wouldn't make any difference, but she knew that most of the group enjoyed a soft bed when the opportunity arose.

As the night wore on, they enjoyed the hospitality of the dwarves who laughed and partied that night along with a crew of a merchant caravan who had arrived not long after they had. Kailee lay down finally alongside Tia and Avion as the boisterous revelry began to die down. She looked beyond Alister on the fringe of the groups bedrolls and noticed an older couple readying for bed. The grey haired husband glanced to her and smiled and she could sense his emotion well as he sat within his blanket. She didn't want to intrude on his thoughts but, the the idea was tempting. Soon, he lay down and went to sleep.

Movement in the great hall awoke Kailee to the staff preparing for breakfast near the center of the room as three younger boys hauled in wood for the hearth. She stretched and sighed, then sat up as Tia's eyes opened.

"Morning," Kailee greeted quietly.

"No," she stated, pulling the blanket over her head.

Kailee chuckled as she rose and headed to the wash closet to notice the older man's wife coming out. Her lightening blond hair was pulled up into a bun and back from the tanned face. Hazel green eyes glanced up to her as they approached one another and Kailee could sense the mix of emotions as she stopped.

"Where are you from, child," the older woman asked.

Kailee wasn't sure how to answer that. "Originally? I'm not sure. Why?"

She nodded as wrinkled, strong hands figeted. "It's just...you remind me of someone, that's all."

"Who?"

The pain in the face told volumes. "Someone very dear to me was lost many years ago and you have some of her features. Where did you grow up?"

"I was found in a room in a ruin not far from here. I have no idea who put me there or why. What is your name?"

"Elizabeth. My husband, Kavayen and I are actually heading home to Carbost. What's your name?"

"Kailee."

Kavayen tried to get some much needed rest before they continued on as he closed his eyes. Suddenly, from across the great room he immediately recongized his wife's voice.

"Kavayen!!"

He sat up as sleepy eyes scanned to see Elizabeth grappled with the sandy haired girl. What in the world? he thought as he jumped up and headed to them and noticed that her scream had woken everyone else also. Confused, he neared to notice tears streaming down his wife's face.

"Woman, are you mad? Let go of her before they throw us out."

"It's her," Elizabeth cried. "Praise to Yaeby, it's her," she pushed out between sobs.

Kavayen took a moment to process what he was hearing, then realized that his hunch was right as his heart began to ache. He wrapped both arms around the two and hugged them tightly.

Page 11 - Confrontations

A dim orange mist streamed through the chestnut and oak bordered road as they headed west from Carbost. Still sleepy, Kailee watched as Elsea's eyelids drooped and soon fell while Tia lay beside her on top of backpacks that crowded the floor of the wagon's interior. She climbed over the gear and extra equipment and weapons to sit beside Avion, taking in the clear morning air.

"Did you want to learn how to drive," the gypsy asked.

"No, thanks. Actually, I was just hoping we could talk. I realized that we really don't know each other that well."

"Sure. What did you have in mind?"

Kailee wasn't sure how to begin. Tia tried to explain it the morning before but, some things were best learned from the source. She eyed the petite thief for a moment who eyed her askance.

"You had a question?" Avion asked nervously.

"I was wondering what you and Lericanin were doing on top of the wagon yesterday morning."

Avion quickly turned to her, then smiled proudly. "You saw that?"

Kailee nodded. "I woke hearing your heartbeats and when I got up and looked out of the window, I noticed you and him together."

She chuckled as she turned her attention back to the road. "We made love."

"Why?"

Avion shot her a look, confused. "You have lived a protected life, haven't you? It's the pleasure of that moment that he and I live for and it's what I was trained to do. All the girls in our village were expected to be able to please a man, or a woman to be accepted as an equal."

Kailee's brow furrowed, she still didn't understand. "I'm just not sure why you would waste so much energy for something that doesn't last."

She laughed, "Trust me, it lasts."

"Really? I don't sense or smell anything new about you."

Avion shook her head as the horses plodded on following Alister who rode ahead. "I really don't understand you at all. Someone who only eats once a week, you can run like the wind, you find someone in the darkness by their heartbeat and the scent of their body. Those things aren't natural."

Kailee looked away. She didn't need to be reminded how different she was, that fact haunted her all the time.

"Hey, I'm sorry if I've offended you," the driver apologized. "I really like you a lot. So does the rest of the group, it's just...you're so unique. I wish I had half of your ability."

Kailee sighed as she turned back to eye her friend. "It hasn't been easy, that's all. I've been wrestling with so many things since you found me. Now that I've found my grandparents, one piece of the puzzle is fit, but there's so many more to find."

"What did they tell you about your mother?"

"She was attacked one night in the stable by some beast and had me prematurely. She died shortly afterwards."

"I'm sorry."

Kailee shook her head, "It's alright," she smiled. "Her name was Bianka. They told me I look a lot like her."

"She was beautiful then. I'm a bit jealous."

Smiling, she knew that Avion had at least known her family and that they were all still alive.

Within five days, they reached Glencoe. A walled town nestled within the foothills of the Black Mountains, the green carpet stretched for miles and was dotted with farms, mills and ranches surrounded by lush forests that reached the horizon. Avion reined the horses in as they entered the busy marketplace with a tall fountain it's centerpiece. Alister, Lericanin and their newest addition, Kasar rode up to the wagon as Kailee and the girls piled out.

"If you want to get us rooms, we'll see to the horses," Lericanin directed to Tia, their official treasurer.

Tia nodded as Kailee followed her into the nearest inn. She turned to look back over Kailee's shoulder as they entered the smokey room from the hearth. "What he means is, Alister will see to the horses and he's going shopping."

"He's been the one making us the money that we don't take off of highwaymen."

"Hmm." Tia turned back to the task at hand as they found the innkeeper. "Do you have four rooms available?"

"Yes, ma'am. Any horses?"

"Five and a wagon."

"Ten bronze," the thin, well tanned man stated as Kailee watched him produce the keys. His weazing and sickly appearance made her wonder about the congestion in his lungs.

"Well, well," a younger man stated from behind as they turned to see their middle aged, attentive prospect smile. "I haven't seen scenery this beautiful in a long time. What do you think, Hammond," he looked over their shoulder to the proprietor.

"Leave them alone, Marcus. They're not alone," he motioned back towards the door as Elsea, Avion and Kasar entered. each well armed.

"I'm not here to hurt any one. Just have a little fun, that's all."
His mischievous smile made Tia's heart beat a bit faster as she stepped up.

"Perhaps you've misinterpreted our presence here. We aren't here for your enjoyment, got it."

Kailee watched as his brown eyes scanned down Tia's petite, but strong body and she could tell that this encounter wasn't going to end well.

"What's going on here," Kasar stepped up. His gangly presence didn't impress their subject much.

"Step back, whelp," Marcus instructed. "I'm having a discussion with the lady."

"Actually, she and I are friends so, whatever problems are created involving them includes me also," the Sauqiran, well trained repelling pirates on many voyages soon had a dagger at the man's throat. "So, I would suggest that you forget about these four ladies and move on."

Marcus quickly backed and eyed Kasar, arms raised in defense. "Perhaps another time."

"Don't count on it," Tia returned.

After dinner, they went out into the large market square as the sun dipped below the horizon leaving the sparse clouds in reds, oranges and deep greys on a deepening backdrop of purple. Tia and Kailee sat on top of the wagon as Lericanin rested on the back step of the wagon below them and carved. Kailee had been meditating with Tia each night to gain energy for their magic, taking from the natural ebb and flow that permeated all of nature around them.

Soon, Kailee's focus was disturbed by someone passing by. A cleric.

"Young man," the elder priest called to Lericanin.

"Yes, sir."

"Tell those ladies that if they don't stop what they're doing, that I will."

She looked down to his darkening glare in the waning evening light with half of his face highlighted orange, giving him a sinister appearance.

Lericanin stood and glanced up to she and Tia. "What were they doing?"

"Since you are a servant of our Father, I will trust that you keep their heretical beliefs out of my town. I'm shocked that you would even stand by and let them do this."

"I'm a bit confused, sir. What were they doing?" Lericanin asked.

Kailee could feel the conflict of interest in the air as the deep maroon cloud clashed with the lighter blue emanating from the priest. She wondered if he could feel it also as his anger seeped from his pores.

"You are all leaving soon, right?"

"At first light."

He nodded, and continued on as the wagon shifted while Lericanin lifted himself up to eye them. "Someone want to tell me what that was about."

Tia shrugged her shoulders. "I don't know, we were just meditating. I didn't know that was a crime."

His blue eyes narrowed as he stared for a moment. "Kailee?"

"What? I don't know what he was talking about," she lied.

"This isn't over," he promised and dropped back down.

Another four and a half days of travel and they reached the bridge that would take them up the winding road to Soderham. Kailee followed the rest of the group to the nearby waterfall and she could smell the cascade from nearly a hundred feet to the wide pool that headed the river taking it south. She was amazed at how free Avion and Kasar were with their bodies as both unashamedly disrobed and jumped in. Tia led to a tidepool partly hidden by a large grey boulder and also began to bathe while Kailee sat in the tall grass. Soon, the wind announced the scent of Lericanin as he emerged from the ferns and crouched nearby.

"I think the three of us need to talk."

Tia eyed him as she wiped darker brown hair out of her face. "You mind if I finish my bath first?"

"I think this has waited long enough. What's been going on with you two?"

"As far as..."

"You know what I'm talking about." Kailee could feel the blood simmer in their large captain.

"You want to hear that not everyone believes in Arhus the way you and Alister do? You want to convert the whole world, is that it? I've been there for all of you, I saved Avion's life. There were many occasions where your wounds would've infected and may have caused the loss of a limb or two. What's the difference if we choose not to thank some god for our knowledge or ability?"

"I'm not trying to convert the whole world," he defended. "I'm concerned that the one's that I've come to see as my own sisters and closer than my own family aren't going down a road of destruction. That's all."

"Don't worry about us. We're fine."

"I'm not totally convinced. But, when you want to talk about it, I'm here," his mood softened as he sighed, rose and drifted back into the woods and headed over to join the others in the pool.

Tia eyed Kailee and she could sense the concern in her eyes. She knew that Tia was defending her family and had a lot more at stake for her affiliations. There was no one else that Kailee could trust with the one from some distant plane who called himself her father. Her grandparents confirmed that Sater's proud boast was a lie.

Page 12 - Meeting Dender

A drastic change in the temperature drew Kailee's attention immediately to the death that enshrouded the Dender Swamp as they entered. The narrow path that had been traveled as this route was the only safe one between Fort William and the Midlands which included a long line of baronies that straddled the only link the Davos Kingdom had overland to its parent Empire to the northwest. Still in sight, the Black Mountains loomed high in the distance - when they had a clear view.
All sounds of nature were drowned by the eerie fog that drifted amidst the forest. Long, grey moss hung low from limbs that reached out over their path and Kailee wondered how long it would be before they slapped down on top of their wagon and steads. The banter between the group also hushed to low tones during their journey to a small, palisade guarded compound of two long buildings that faced one another atop one of the few islands. Barking of two bloodhounds greeted them as Alister and Kasar led towards the stables and drew her attention to their owner, an older man in simple off-white tunic and brown pants stuffed into the tops of tall, well worn boots. His stern, leathery face bordered between angry snarl and broad smile.

"Is this it," he asked, glancing down the road they had just traversed.

"Yes," Lericanin assured as Kailee opened the rear door and hopped out, sending both dogs behind the legs of their owner, whimpering.

"What's wrong with you two," their host asked, petting them on the head, then looked up to the three females approaching the front door to the inn. His deep brown eyes narrowed as Kailee stopped. She could feel the wash over herself and knew immediately what he was doing, just not exactly what he was looking for.

He relaxed a bit, "Okay. I guess I can let you kids stay here tonight," he stated, still studying her.

Tia chuckled, "We appreciate that. How much?"

He motioned into the two story, wood frame building. "Ask Henry, he takes care of that part of the business. You have any problems on the road?"

"No. Why?" Lericanin queried.

His yellowing teeth smiled. "We don't live in this forest alone," he began as he headed to the gate and pulled the large doors closed. "There's werewolves that inhabit the area. Been harrassing caravans for years, then drift back into the swamp to hit the next unsuspecting group. I'm surprised that you didn't meet any, although they don't attack everyone."

Lericanin fingered his hammer hanging on his belt. "Any idea where they live?"

"If I knew that, I'd have gotten rid of them a long time ago, son," he explained as he lifted a long, wooden bar and placed it into the sockets across the entrance. "Where you from?"

"My friend's family lives on a farm south of Carbost," he informed of Alister's parents and brother.

"Name's Elias Dender. My father settled this area fifty years ago when it was a forest and not this mess we've got now. I grew up learning the new animals that have settled here, the poisonous ones have kept me busy. The lycanthropes showed up about eight years ago and have been giving me more grey hairs ever since."

"Why do you stay?" Kailee finally piped up.

"This is my home. If no one is here to greet travelers at this halfway point, then who will?"

She nodded, then started to head inside.

"Kailee," Lericanin called. "Perhaps you can help us keep an eye out tonight."

"Sure."

After the group ate dinner cooked by Henry and his teenage son, Alex, they began making preparations. Kailee went upstairs to the room given to she and Tia. During the daylight venture to the weighstation, she had been feeling strange. This swamp was tainted with an evil that she couldn't focus her magics on and it bothered her. There were many things that watched them from the woods and swamp that stayed just out of reach of her senses.

'That's because I'm protecting you, my love." The familiar, deep voice blew across her neck and sent shivers throughout her body. 'I'm glad that you've come here, there are many in this paradise that will worship you when you become my wife. And they are only the minor servants that I have.'

Kailee focused what little strength she had to resist his advances. "I told you that I don't need you. Why do you keep showing up?"

In a blast of heat, she could feel his anger and frustration as the presence beyond her eyes moved around to face her. 'Without me the presence that has joined Lericanin would've destroyed you. Why do you think that priest in Glencoe didn't act on what he felt when you and Tia were drawing from me? He knew that I would crush his pitiful life for my daughters. I want you to come home with me,' he pressed as she felt warm tendrils course up her thigh and gently pet her.

"NO!!" she screamed and sprinted out of the room and down the stairs as the group armed themselves.

"What was it," Lericanin asked, pulling her behind him as Alister moved to his left, shield up to guard the stairs.

Panting and trying to regain her composure, she wiped tears from her cheeks, then glanced to Elias as he gripped his druidstaff and studied her. "I'm fine. Bad dream," she lied as Tia moved to her side and hugged her.

"You sure," Avion pressed, bow at the ready alongside Elsea, both aiming at the top of the stairway.

"Yeah." She gripped Tia so hard she was afraid that she may squeeze the life out of her. Closing her eyes, she could still feel his presence, distantly.

Soon, they relaxed and waited as the night wore on. Kailee leaned on Tia's shoulder as her lids began getting heavy. Suddenly, she could smell their musty odor, hear their hearts beating out an aggressive tune as they clawed their way up and jumped over the gate.

"They're here," she pushed out as she jumped up just in time to see the front door and flanking window explode into shards. Brown fur, claws and teeth accentuated the growls as everyone engaged the attackers. Tia concentrated on her spells as Kailee smelled another upstairs which prompted her to quickly sprint up to help Alister guarding Alex's room. As she arrived, the farmer hit the floor hard and was bitten by the werewolf on the calf. Screaming, Alister tried to free himself as he reached for his sword. Glowing red eyes looked up to Kailee as she moved to attack him and in a flash, he leaped up, sprinted down the short hallway and vaulted out of the two story window, Kailee on his heels.
Her eyes adjusted quickly to the darkness as she chased, her blood pumped through her veins in the thrill of the hunt. His nervous sweat fueled her aggression as branches snapped amidst the explosion of leaves. Nearing her prey, she leaped onto his back, digging her claws into his shoulders and knocked him to the ground. He spun and backfisted her, knocking her away as he jumped up and fled. The night turned to shades of red as she sprinted and caught him in the water, spun him to face her and slashed across his chest. The growling cry echoed through the surroundings as she watched his heart slow, then stop. Beyond, she could sense more of these things in the distant woods. Concentrating, her body melted into water and sped along through the cool river to hunt her next target from below.
Soon, she could hear the group in the distance as they chased the remaining lycanthropes to the woods not far from her. She would join them, but there were other problems out here waiting for the humans to approach. The body of water slithered up the bank as Kailee reformed herself and slowly moved to the three man-sized reptiles, bows at the ready. As combat ensued to her distant left, the three hidden archers fired towards the lightsource and silhouettes. Kailee attacked, killing one instantly which sent the other two in flight. She was beginning to enjoy this as she quickly caught the slower of the two and raked him up the back, then pressed on to his friend. After the last was down, her nose attracted the scent of something larger and more powerful in the distance which the females and young of the lizardmen's families were fleeing towards. She moved in the same direction to investigate them further until a burst of hot gas wafted through the forest which stopped her in her tracks. The noxious fumes nearly made her vomit and she assumed that the intruders of this individuals domain had run to the wrong sanctuary.
She would wait for the others.

Page 13 - Of Mice and Men

As morning neared, the sounds of combat back towards the river quieted as Kailee focused her mind and listened to flies and mosquitoes buzzing about, owls hunting rodents, snakes tracking their prey and a young man to the east sleeping. Soon, she noticed a torch slowly winding through the forest and she recognized Lericanin and Alister who neared her position.

"What are we searching for," she asked, walking to intercept them.

"Don't do that," Alister stated in surprise. Apparently their awareness wasn't as acute. "Where've you been?"

"Taking care of some odd lizard-type warriors. Their young and females ran off that way and I think encountered something large."

"How large," Lericanin asked. She could tell that he was spoiling for another fight already.

"Enormous, and I think we should leave this one alone. What are you looking for?"

"Henry's son, Alex was kidnapped. We have to find him."

"I think he may be to your distant left. I could sense someone over there but, I didn't know who it was." She followed both fighters into the dark to finally come to a small clearing. Their musty odor permeated the ground and trees as Kailee's nose wrinkled recounting the werewolf that she had pursued to the river. Within the torchlight, they noticed Alex's battered body lying on the cold, dark ground.

Immediately, Lericanin knelt as Kailee smelled Alex for any disease that would indicate that he had been infected by the animals. As she focused, her nose and mind scanned him and found nothing, and he was still alive. Shouldering the innkeeper's son, they carried Alex back to the river where Tia treated Avion's wounds.

"Is he still alive," Tia asked as she bandaged her patient's right arm.

"Yes, barely. Looks like they dragged him through the woods instead of carried," Lericanin informed as Kasar returned, also bloodied and tired.

Kailee crouched nearby and watched as Tia treated their wounds and fed them each herbs. Minor cuts magically sealed within moments as their surroundings brightened into greens and browns.

After returning Alex to the weighstation, the group assembled near the southern gate.

"Kailee noticed something out there, beyond where the werewolves lived," Lericanin motioned with his head as he strapped on his armor.

"I also said that it was large and we should leave it alone," Kailee stressed, knowing she was wasting her breath.

Avion eyed her for a moment. "How large?"

"I don't know for sure."

Elsea turned to Elias, their host, "Have you ever encountered anything like that out there?"

"No," the elder druid informed, leaning on his spear, the silver tipped head gleamed in the sunlight. "There are many things in these woods, no telling what she's referring to," he eyed Kailee. "How did you find this thing, anyway?"

"I've grown up in the woods, I've learned how to sense things at distance."

"Elminoir's blessed you then."

Kailee grinned and nodded, then turned her attention back to the group. There was another who would be offended at that comment and she hoped Elias, Henry and his son wouldn't be visited any time soon by one of Sater's enforcers.

"So I take it you're going out there no matter what," Tia accused as she eyed the six-and-a-half foot veteran from Anderslough who nodded. "Do you have a deathwish? Kailee already warned us, what' more proof do you need?"

"I'm not asking that you come with me, and no, I don't have a deathwish. I'm just not afraid like most. Arhus will guide my hammer in each fight that we engage in and when it's my time to go to Ghevond, I'm ready."

"You know that I have to go with you because Kailee isn't going to let you go out there without her. And who else is going to patch all of you up when this fight is over?" Tia emphasized, hands on hips.

"It's settled then," Lericanin smiled, shouldered his shield and led them out through the gateway and back through the woods. Kailee eyed Tia to her left and noticed the frustration in her friends eyes.

"What's wrong?"

Tia glanced to her as they crossed the wide river, covered in green algae. "He doesn't realize that when he goes on these suicide missions, he takes all of us with him. One day one or all of us isn't coming back."

That thought hit home as Kailee pondered seeing Tia hurt. Fear slowly swept into her mind. "I will never let anything happen to you. I promise."

Tia smiled warmly as they climbed out of the stagnant barrier. Kailee only hoped that she could live up to that promise.

Soon, they neared the lair of their quarry. The hillside opened up beyond the large clearing like a dark wound as they knelt within the treeline. Not far from their hiding place, the bodies of the lizardmen females lay in grotesque heaps over and around their young as if burned without the physical display on their clothing. At least not on the back.

"Avion, you, Elsea and Kasar set up here. We'll draw it out from the left side of the cave which will give you it's flank," Lericanin instructed.

Kailee kept her awareness piqued as they moved through the woods to the left side. The putrid stench of this beast wafted out into the air from it's home and strengthened as they neared. It knew they were there as she turned to warn Kasar who was left at the apex of the clearing. Suddenly, a burst of greenish gas erupted from deep within the cave and engulfed the forest. The cone reached out to an amazing distance as they all stood there in disbelief.

"I hate to be the one that says I told you so," Tia said flatly as Alister sprinted back the way they had come, dropping his shield and weapons as he ran for his life. Both of the girls eyed Lericanin as he stared at the back of his friend who faded into the distance. Determination steeled his nerves and Kailee knew that he would go in there alone if necessary. She drew her sword and followed with Tia right behind her.

As they rounded the entrance, Kailee could see the large dragon in the depths of the circular cave full of refuse and bones. She had never seen anything this big in her life as its neck and head rose high above them, hissing. Lericanin charged as arrows sped into the beast. Kailee took a wide angle to the left and charged the flank as its clawed hand swatted at the brave fighter, knocking him backwards to Tia's feet. A flurry of parries, dodges and thrusts continued on for some time as Lericanin leaped up and charged, shield arm limp, and delivered a crushing blow to the dragon's chest. Kailee dodged and stabbed in the underside of the serpent and soon it leaped out of the cave and into the air. She watched as Elsea fired arrow after arrow into it's hindquarters until it finally escaped their view.
She turned to see Lericanin drop to sit on the dark grey earth, staring blankly in disbelief as Tia moved to help him. Scanning the rest of the chamber, she noticed the darkened interior ended fairly abruptly beyond the uneven floor of rock and dust.

"Everyone okay," Elsea asked, her voice echoing from the opening.

"We will be," the exasperated physician stated, distracted in her normal duties. Kailee turned to notice Lericanin's head cradled in his right hand as Tia concentrated on the left arm. A dull, blue glow emanated from around slender fingers and Kailee watched as her mentalist sister healed the break.

"We should get out of here as soon as possible," Elsea stressed as Avion ran to where Kasar lay. "That thing could come back and we don't know if there are any more."

Tia finished up and helped the fighter up as he quietly grabbed for his warhammer, grunting in pain as they moved passed the shattered remnants of his shield. Kailee followed and they soon reached Kasar's body, now burned and nearly cleaned of clothing and armor as he lay staring up at the sky in shock. His hair and eyebrows had been singed and she pulled her shirt up over her nose as the rising fume assaulted her. Elsea and Avion fed him some of their remaining herbs and helped their friend to his feet.

"Now we have to find Alister," Tia mentioned as they followed the trail blazed by the only smart one in the group, picking up his equipment as they went. Soon, they noticed him laying face down on the ground near the edge of the river, unconscious. Avion kneeled down and gently shook him.

"Alister, you alright?"

Suddenly stirring, he pushed himself up and turned to notice them standing nearby. Kailee also noticed the strong scent of urine and realized what fear could do to someone.

"You alright, brother," Lericanin asked.

Alister nodded, embarrassed that he had fled the battle when they stayed as he rose and quietly followed them back to the compound. This would be a day they wouldn't soon forget.

Page 14 - For the Love of a Sister

The cool, grey murk slowly dissipated as they rode on from Elias's Weighstation and gave the impression of drifting through a dark dream. Kailee watched from the narrow doorway behind Avion's seat while the fog muffled the soft hoof beats. Tia had insisted on riding point with Kasar that morning and Kailee had been on edge the whole time.

Avion turned, "Why don't you get some sleep, you look tired".

She shook her head. "No, thanks. I hate this swamp and I may not rest until we're free of it."

Chuckling, the driver turned and scanned their surroundings as the sunlight was breaking through, turning tall grey lines into brown trunks. "I think we all would agree with that. I haven't slept much either."

"What was your home like?" Kailee asked, trying to distract her mind from the apprehension.

"Nice. We lived in the Valis Mountains during the winter and traveled the Kingdom of Ganshoren the rest of the year, plying our wares and putting on shows for the people. I juggled for the children, usually knives and whatever else I had close at hand. The nights were spent trying to keep my brothers out of trouble which was a task in itself, believe me. I couldn't wait to be free of them, my father in particular."

"I can understand that." Suddenly, Kailee began to feel her heart race, sweat beaded on her forehead as she straightened.

"What is it," Avion asked nervously.

Between the horses pulling their wagon, Kailee saw him. The black knight drifted out of the swamp like a wraith, his horse's eyes glared blood red as it huffed a blast of fume and stamped the ground in anticipation. He spurred the stead on and charged Tia and Kasar, lowering his lance and Kailee could feel each hoof beat that pounded the earth, angrily spewing dirt behind it as if tearing the soul out of this already tortured landscape.
Avion pulled the reins to the right as Kailee hopped up onto the bench, standing to see over the rumps of their steads as both scouts at the head of their column froze to accept the charging demon bearing down on them. The impact sent Tia's body backwards and up, nearly doubling over in the saddle and Kailee could feel her own heart burst as the knight lifted his target upwards with the lance, then cast her limp body behind him.

"NOOOOOOO!!!!!!" she screamed, then charged. Unsheathing her sword as she ran across the back of the rightmost horse, her vision narrowed and ignored the ten undead soldiers that attacked the flanks of the wagon. Greens and browns turned quickly to maroon as she sprinted, the beautiful young face grimaced as green eyes went fiery orange. Fangs grew as the knight lowered his lance for the next target. Within seconds, she approached, reared the bastardsword for the mighty swing and leaped into the air, over the rearing neck of the nightmare. The impact echoed through the boughs like thunder knocking the black paladin backwards and out of the saddle.
She hit the ground running, dropped the sword as clanking metal armor and the body in it slammed the ground while Kasar turned his horse and charged the downed opponent. All she saw was her friend, lying in a pool of blood and not moving. She slid up next to her, scooped up her sister and pulled her close, weeping.

"Give her back!! Now!!" she cried.

'I'll do as you ask, but you have to do something for me,' the familiar voice from the dark recesses of her mind stated.

Kailee cradled the lifeless head and pulled it to her tear soaked cheek. "Just give her back."

'As you wish... my wife.'

Kailee clutched Tia as she wept, blood still flowing from the hole through the small frame. Soon, the flow stopped and she noticed the cold body in her arms warm as the wound closed. Her focused symbiotic relationship right now allowed her to feel the heart beat and give life back to her friend. Kailee's head rose and she saw the lids flicker as soft breath cooled her own cheek. Tears of joy flowed as she kissed Tia on the forehead and hugged her again.
Soon, Lericanin and Avion ran up to them, panting from the battle that they had just won. Or so they thought.

"Kailee, come on. We have to go," Lericanin stated, reaching for Tia's body.

She glared at him, "Don't touch her," she warned hotly.

He backed and stood. "Get her into the wagon, we have to go."

Kailee lifted Tia and carried her to the back of the wagon to see the undead warriors reforming and rising for another fight. Rusted armor and ragged cloth hung loosely on the bleached frames as they reclaimed weapons. Quickly, she maneuvered her gift back into the wagon and sat on the benchseat across from Elsea as Alister slammed the door. Avion snapped the reins and they sped away from the enemy.

She looked down to the tanned, rounded face and noticed that Tia's hair and eyebrows were now jet black. The wound, now dimly picked out in the rumbling, wooden container, was completely healed. Slender fingers ran over the embossed tattoo and she immediately noticed the flaming eye symbol. He had marked her forever now. But, it didn't matter, Tia was alive and Kailee had kept her promise.

Page 15 - Kalmar in Shambles

Two weeks north of the dreaded swamp, the group continued their northerly trek. Clean air filtered by the surrounding oak and chestnut soon took on the putrid stench of thick smoke. Kailee leaned forward to scan the horizon as Avion drove to it and soon noticed the black columns rising into the air and drifting westward with the wind. She heard Kasar's horse speed forward passed the wagon to join Alister and Lericanin at point where they had stopped.

"Looks like tonight's stay may be outside," Avion mused as Tia and Elsea leaned to see the walled town burning. Two large gates yawned giving them a perfect view of the main street engulfed in flames. Elsea grabbed her bow and quiver and exited through the back door while Kailee concentrated and scanned the breeze for any nearby participants in this fight to find none. Several bordering farms however were also burning with their occupants dead or dying.

"We're too late to save this place," Tia stated noncommitally as she sat back.

Avion turned, "We should at least check the neighboring farms to see if there's anyone hiding that we can help".

"What's the point," Tia countered. "We don't have the money or the time right now."

Staring askance, Avion turned back to watch as Alister rode up and stopped his horse on the right side of the wagon.

"We're going to go in the town and see what's going on. Lericanin noticed fighting beyond the gate."

Tia leaned forward to eye the fighter. "Forbid that you two would miss out on a chance for glory. Perhaps you hadn't noticed that the street to the engagement is engulfed in fire. You and I both know you won't get the horses up there."

"So, we'll walk. You guys stay here with the wagon just in case."

"I want to go with you," Avion volunteered.

Alister dismounted and handed the reins to her, "Who else can drive the wagon?"

"Give it up, Avion," Tia said. "They don't want to share their vain attempt to get into Ghevond."

Kailee watched as Avion turned, anger and concern in her eyes, "What's gotten into you lately? Whoever you are, bring back my friend."

Tia leaned back, the dim light glinting off of her hazel eyes from the darkened face that smiled.

"We won't be sitting here long," Kailee projected. "As soon as the fire goes down, we can check the homes. Why don't you pull up to the gates and wait there."

"Alright." Avion tied off the reins of Alister's horse and drove the wagon up to the tall grassy mound topped by a stone wall as Kailee watched Tia sit and stare out through the forwardmost arrow slit cut into the starboard wall. She had changed somewhat. The form-fitting, black leather armor that she had made in Varberg, the first town they arrived at after the Dender Swamp, told that much.

They waited while the fire burned itself out and then walked into the town. Gutted homes and businesses smoldered in the noonday sun, still hot from the inferno that now made its way farther through the tightly built sprawl, away from the fighting and towards the keep that dominated the center of Kalmar. Blackened bodies of defender and attacker alike littered the flagstone they traveled and there was little discerning between the two.

"We'll go ahead, why don't you two look to see if there's anyone still alive," Avion suggested to Tia and Kailee.

"In there," Tia motioned to the dark ruin to her left. "Are you serious?"

"That's fine," Kailee cut in. "It would probably be better if we stayed nearer the wagon anyway."

Avion nodded as Elsea began heading to the din of battle up ahead. "Thank you."

As the two girls disappeared into the whirling grey smoke, Tia turned to her. "Can you detect anyone alive in this mess?"

"I can't smell anything but smoke and it's making me sick."

"Put this scarf over your nose," she suggested, handing Kailee a thick, woolen wrap. "They tend to forget how sensitive you are to things like this, until it serves their purpose."

Kailee didn't see it that way. She was helping her friends find trouble before it sprang on them, usually. Tia eyed the surroundings as they began walking back towards the gate; the doors hung askew as if blown open by some large giant.

"You know," Tia began. "We could take those horses and be free of their troublesome meddling. Just you and I. We may even be able to find out more about your background. Weren't you saying that your father was an alchemist?"

"That's what my grandparents told me. They think he's living in Bakony now. My grandfather didn't have many good things to say about him though."

"Funny how we came to be together. My father raped my mother when she was attending the magic college of Bukhara and left her in the alleyway afterwards." Kailee noticed the hatred in Tia's eyes at the mention of the incident. "I'm going to kill him when I find him," she mentioned, matter-of-factly. "My mother has been training me for that day all my life."

Hitting her in the face, the facts made Kailee step back. "How could you hate someone you don't even know?"

Tia's hazel eyes glazed. "I know him well enough."

Soon, the fighting ended and they led the reluctant horses and wagon into the town as the survivors began assisting the wounded and preparing the dead for burial. Arriving at the keep, Lericanin and Alister tended to Kasar who had been wounded severely while Avion and Elsea looked on.

"Is he alright?" Kailee asked.

Lericanin nodded, "He will be. Tia, I'm glad you're finally here. See what you can do for him."

The team medic initially eyed their fallen comrade as he sat against the tan wall of a home saved from the fire, then soon walked over and knelt beside him as she assessed the damage.

"The baroness of Kalmar has given us lodging in the keep," Alister informed as he retrieved the reins from Kailee, led the horses and wagon further along the rounded street and to the backside of the large, rounded tower. She watched as people scrambled with buckets dipped into the well, pass them off to others in a line that eventually ended at one burning house. Kailee wished that she had a list that could make it rain.

After Tia stabilized the Sauqiran, they moved him inside the keep and found a place within the busy great hall to place he and their gear.

Eventually, Kailee walked the market square beyond the keep and rounded the quiet stalls to see Lericanin walk into the gutted church. She hurried to the shallow wall and gate and began to feel nauseated. Backing as the feeling went away, she noticed him kneel and pray in the roofless building now filled with rubble. For an instant, she noticed a shimmer standing to the right and behind him as a shiver ran up her spine.

'You need not fear, my love. That servant can't hurt you.'

"Unless you allow it, right?"

The low, dark chuckle made her skin crawl. 'Perhaps you should take Tia's advice, you two would be better off on your own.'

"I enjoy being with my friends, I'm not leaving them," she stated as she wondered what Lericanin and this apparition were talking about.

'They're talking about how to best rid the world of people like us. Your safety is my primary concern, but know this, you win either way. The sooner this life is over, the sooner we can be together.' His hot breath burned her neck and cheek which prompted her to step away. He sighed, searing the flagstone at her feet. 'You don't appreciate the things that I've done for you? I returned Tia to you at your request and still you spurn my love.'

"Are you capable of love? Do you even know what that is?"

"Absolutely," Tia added from behind.

She turned to see her smirking friend. "Love is taking all you can and giving of yourself completely. He cares more for us than any of these people ever will. Can they give us life? Could any of them helped keep us together after that day in the swamp? Kailee, you would've buried me that day if it hadn't been for Him. You know this to be true." Tia took her hand and caressed it with her thumb.

Kailee looked away as she tried to push out the emotion of the incident. Seeing her friends body being lifted into the air...stop!

"You two don't have to be afraid to enter the courtyard," Lericanin stated as he neared. "He would accept you both with open arms."

"Kailee, come on. Let's get some dinner," Tia pulled Kailee closer as she turned to leave.

There were so many questions. "How long are we staying," Kailee asked, following Tia across the street.

"I'm not sure. I think I want to stay and help rebuild the church. Probably a few days," he shrugged.

As they walked up the stairway, embedded into the steep green mound that supported the tall, granite home, Kailee wondered how best to keep everyone around her that she had come to depend on.
"Tia, I do know what love is. It's what I feel for you. We've been through so much together but, I also have come to enjoy our friends. I can't leave them."

Tia eyed her for a moment, studying her eyes as she sighed. "I do love you too, but there are things that I have to do also. With or without you."

Kailee gripped her sister's hand tighter, the gulf between them was widening and she didn't know how to stop it.

Page 16 - Into the Lion's Den

Birds flitted high above and sang to another day as the wagon lumbered northward. Kailee sat on the roof with Lericanin and Tia to his right as sunlight cast long shadows across their path. She gazed upward to the occasional blue sky dotted with puffy white clouds drifting lazily overhead.

"It would be something to be able to fly," Kailee mused.

"Would certainly make this trip faster," Lericanin added quietly. He and Alister had survived a very strange attack for their six day trip between Mellerud and Onebro which Kailee knew had involved her admirer's henchmen. They had both lost weight from the assault that also deprived their tortured bodies of sleep, and it showed. This fight had intrusively allowed them visions into the next plane. She could still hear their screams.

She turned to eye the blue-eyed giant as he sat, cradling his heavy crossbow. "You know, there have been times lately that I wished you hadn't found me."

He turned to her, confusion wracked his face. "Why?"

"For all the things you've suffered because of me." The comment also grabbed Tia's attention.

"None of these things that we've been through had anything to do with you," Tia stated emphatically.

"Tia, don't lie. You and I both know what's been going on. He's been trying to make all of you suffer so that I would draw closer to him. I may be naive, but I'm not stupid."

"It doesn't matter," Lericanin began. "I'd go through hell for all of you, you know that."

She shook her head and turned to scan the distant covered road that would soon open. A flash exploded within her mind, wracking her body in convulsions as she bent over while the world began to spin at a sickening pace. An arm grabbed her shoulders as she felt light as a feather and floated upwards while her mind ached. As it slowly subsided, she opened her eyes to stare at the fine embroidery of her light green dress.

"....you alright?" Lericanin's voice slowly focused and gained in volume as she relaxed and looked up to see the large round building to their left. The whole area had an odd, bluish glow until her green eyes noticed a being that stood in the road and stopped the horses. Panic accelerated her heart rate and she tried to concentrate and center herself. If she was going to have to fight for her life, she needed to control and defeat whatever this was. Closing her eyes momentarily, she straightened and opened them to see the elderly man in white surcoat with maroon border and emblem on the breast denoting the symbol of Arhus. His kind, brown eyes greeted as he spoke. She could see his lips moving and the smile, but couldn't distract her mind from the aura around him.

"Kailee," Lericanin called, turning her face to his and breaking the spell.

"What?"

"Are you alright?"

She nodded, backing from him. "I'm fine. Where are we?"

"Welcome to Exmoor," the cleric greeted as she looked at him again, her heart still racing. "I'm Elias and servant of Arhus, welcome." He turned and motioned to another long building that fronted the large, two story, horseshoe-shaped barracks. "Charles will tend to your horses. I've been waiting for you," he stated, eyeing the trio on the roof as Lericanin and Tia moved to climb down. Kailee couldn't take her eyes from this man, his white hair splattered conservatively with grey. He glanced to her and noticed her attention. "You need not fear child, no one here will harm you. I give you my word."

"Then you apparently don't know anything about me," she stated without thought, apprehension still piqued.

"I know that you are here for a reason and I will do everything in my power to answer all of your questions, for I see that your heart has many." His gentle smile softened her walls that melted with each moment. "Come, gather your strength and rest now," he offered as the rest of the group shouldered their gear and neared the cleric.

Tia climbed up onto the driver's bench and eyed her. "Come on." Kailee noticed the nervousness in her friend's eyes also. They would have to weather this storm together. As the horses and gear were under the care of the stablehands and smith, they remained close to Lericanin as the group stowed their things into the second story billet and toured the school and barracks. Sandstone walls and tile, finely crafted hangings and sconces, laquered oak railings and a wealth of history in banners, books and memorabilia littered the large home for the Templar and Paladin who served the deity of justice. Eventually, they exited back into the nearly enclosed courtyard as young boys of various ages practised their arms training under watchful veterans.

They followed Lericanin to the rounded shrine that Kailee had noticed first and stopped as he ascended the broad, white stairs to enter the open air temple dedicated to his patron deity and met Elias, the Knight Commander and their host.

"I'm here to guide you, brother and answer any questions you may have." His voice echoed off of the high walls and ceiling as she and Tia stopped near the base of the stairs.

Lericanin reverently scanned the church, "This is amazing."

Elias chuckled, "Thank you. It's not grand but, it definitely serves its purpose. We tend to travelers and pilgrims as they come to visit along with the other duties that He has given us."

"You said you knew we were coming?"

The cleric nodded as he glanced to the duo watching them from outside. "Yes. My champion stated that I needed to tend to you and your group today," he mentioned and looked back to the younger acolyte of Arhus. "What is your greatest fear? What keeps you from succeeding at all things?"

"I don't fear anything."

"A man without fear is a man without hope, my friend."

Kailee could tell immediately that the comment hit her friend like a ton of bricks and wondered what he was thinking. She watched as Lericanin nodded respectfully, turned and headed deeper into the sanctuary as Elias descended the stairs and approached them.

"Is there anything that I can do for either of you?" he offered.

Tia immediately shook her head and backed from him as Kailee wondered how much this man really knew about her, or had this all been some elaborate trap.

"Why do I feel sick every time I near one of your churches?" she asked.

He smiled and studied her for a moment. "How much do you know of yourself? Your true nature."

"I know I don't really look any different from her," she motioned to Tia and looked back. "I know I only need to feed once a week. I've tried Lericanin's cooking and it's alright. It just didn't give me the energy that I get when I hunt for them."

"Your mother was attacked that night by a vampire. You are half vampire yourself, that's why you feed on the blood of your kills. But, the odd thing is you're not affected by sunlight and you don't have the same outlook as other vampires that we've encountered over the years."

Tia's jaw dropped as Kailee stared at the cleric, hanging on every word. "What's a vampire," Kailee asked.

He smiled nervously. "Tradition holds that they are people that have been infected with a disease that gives them eternal life that they have to feed with nightly attacks on people or animals. You seem to be the exception to the rule." He smiled again. "I don't truly understand this either."

Kailee stood there, blankly staring at the cleric. "How could this have happened?"

"Arhus works in mysterious ways, my child. Only time will tell what his design is for you."

Page 17 - Baden Confrontation

After a long boat trip west along the Yaro River and south and west on the Ocu, the group arrived in the capitol of Baden. Nestled in the foothills of the Aran Mountain Range and cradled on the east flowing Ocu, the city boasted all the wealth of a kingdom based on mining and agriculture. Not only could the king be proud of anchoring the southwestern corner of the Astaran Empire, but he also had become friends with the elven kingdom of Tywyn to his northwest.

Kailee gladly jogged down the gangway from the Haguenau, the vessel that they had been cooped up on for what seemed like an eternity as its crew tied off the merchantman.

"You act like you disliked the ride," Tia chided as she joined her.

Kailee turned to eye her friend as Alister began leading the horses out of the hold. "What gave you that idea?"

"Your face is regaining its color, for one," the raven haired beauty stated, smiling. "Don't fear, you weren't the only one. Now all we have to do is find this merchant and get the necklace back, if he even has it."

Kailee watched and eyed the crowd of sailors, dockworkers and merchants and their wagons being loaded or unloaded as they waited for the wagon and the rest of their things to be disgorged. They looked quite the same as the people in the kingdom of Davos, not that she was expecting different. All the things that she had been learning about this large world since being freed had been an overwhelming experience. Sleek white birds glided overhead and screeched as some divebombed unsuspecting individuals holding food in their hand, successfully stealing a morsel for themselves and quickly escaping the angry victim.

"Kailee," Avion soon called, gaining her attention from the driver's seat of the wagon. "You coming?"

She rounded the horses as they reared their heads and joined the young thief on the bench and enjoyed the trip through the crowded dock and into the city until arriving at a tavern. Heat from the sun warmed the tan and light brown buildings flanking the busy street full of vendors plying their wares, horses clopping along and merchants greeting visitors or friends. The smell also made her realize that she didn't really miss land after all, at least not in a city.

"I'll get us rooms if you wish to begin looking for this merchant," Tia offered as they unloaded and dismounted.

"Elsea, why don't you, Avion and Kasar hunt this lead, I have some things to sell in the market," Lericanin directed. "We'll all meet here afterwards."

They nodded and headed inside as Kailee followed into the well appointed inn. The main room's wooden floor was a change from flagstone, the long bench seats and tables however weren't. Two elderly men sat near the hearth smoking as they listened to a younger man holding a oddly shaped case who tried to barter a deal to entertain that night. He glanced up and smiled at her, eyes wide. She studied him blankly and continued on as Tia paid for their rooms.

Afterwards, they adventured into the marketplace following Lericanin and Alister to a merchant within the tumultuous crowd. She scanned the passing sea of color, height and demeanor of everyone that walked by, listening to their surface thoughts. Concerns, worries, shopping lists and jokes flooded her mind as she also smelled their blood and listened to their heartbeats. She realized for the first time how alone she was with her abilities and unique perceptions, knowing that none of them could hear her secrets.

"What do you think of these," Tia asked, breaking her concentration.

Kailee turned to notice the bolts of cloth in various colors. "Nice. You planning on making another set of clothes?"

As Tia answered, Kailee suddenly felt the impending darkness that lingered in the distance. She focused on the feeling that led her to point northwest. His anger and hate coupled with the second, more bestial presence with him made her shiver. An arm grabbed her and turned her back around.

"You hear anything I just said," Tia asked.

"We've got company," she informed, looking to Lericanin as he completed his bargain. She stepped up and touched him on the arm. "There's a problem."

"What is it?"

"To the northwest, two of them. They're waiting for us."

"Who?"

"I'm not sure, but if we do find the necklace here in Baden, we're going to have to fight to return Elsea to her home."

Concern quickly commanded the visage of their captain as he eyed the crowd around them. "Alright, thank you. Let's return to the inn and wait for the others."

After a short visit to the cathedral dedicated to Arhus, they arrived at the tavern and waited at a table, quietly nursing water and ale until the trio arrived, smiling. Elsea and Avion sat next to Tia as the princess produced the elusive silver heirloom.

"We told him about the theft and he just handed it to me," Elsea informed joyfully. "I couldn't believe it. I was expecting to pay handsomely for it and he just gave it to us."

"That was nice of him," Alister stated as they all eyed the elegantly made necklace, round pendant reflecting the daylight spilling through two large windows that fronted the street.

"We have some news of our own," Lericanin began. "Kailee felt the presence of an evil waiting for us to the northwest. I prayed for guidance in this matter and confirmed that a demon is beyond the western gate."

"What?" Avion queried, worry on the faces of everyone now.

"I suggest that we leave at first light and take care of this problem. The longer we linger here, the more damage he may do to the surrounding farms. I can't have that on my conscience." Lericanin studied their eyes and Kailee noticed that everyone agreed. She knew however that this foe was more dangerous than the orcs and goblins they had encountered thus far.

As the sun rose quietly in the east, Kailee and Tia joined the group as they ate, backpacks shouldered and standing near a table instead of being seated. Alister quickly headed outside and prepared the horses for departure as the wagon would be stored at the church until they returned from Tywyn. It would never make the trip through the river canyons and only slow them down.

"Everyone ready," Lericanin asked as they followed him out through the front door and mounted up for the ride. Armor gleamed dimly as Baden awoke to a new day while the group rode through the quiet streets and headed for the western gate, now open for merchant traffic. Once out onto the road, she noticed the surrounding green pastures and farms nestled within sparse woods until reaching farther out where the forests overtook civilization.

Wary of an ambush, Lericanin turned to Kailee," You still feel that presence?"

She concentrated and could easily feel him to the north. "He's biding his time, that way," she pointed up the long covered highway.

"Everyone keep your eyes open."

That evening, they made camp atop a covered hillock bordering a narrow river. To the south and west the clearing would give them full view of any attacks from that way. Night fell as they waited, moonlight being their only friend as Kailee quietly followed the scent of death that closed on their position. Suddenly, he disappeared. Frantically, she focused her energies into the forest to their north until being shocked by the crushing branches and the unearthly screams as the demon and his mount charged across the stream and up the hill. Scrambling, they armed themselves and accepted the charge as Alister was nearly trampled by the nightmare.

At the same time, arrows zipped into the surrounding trees with a few hitting shields as Elsea, Avion and Lericanin guarded the south from three others charging their flank. Kailee crouched as the red glowing eyes hungrily fought their way to her through Alister and Kasar. Fighting, she dodged hooves and bites as the assailant swung and downed Alister, then turned on Kasar to his left. She lunged and struck him in the thigh as the downed fighter recomposed himself and rejoined the fray, attacking the back of the rider. Parries and thrusts finally struck the dark warrior and killed him, his body disintegrated into hissing smoke as the evil horse kicked her in the chest, knocking her down. As she turned and raised the sword, Alister swung mightily and killed the beast, sending it back to the nether world that spawned it.

She quickly turned to see Avion charge the remaining archer and down him as Alister collapsed. Tia moved quickly to assist their wounded as Kailee lay in the tall grass and sighed. Now she could rest.

Page 18 - Newcomer

The soft grass and cool breeze that quietly enveloped her was so inviting; Kailee would take this over a bed any day. Tia eventually finished taking care of their friend's wounds and she closed out the discussions going on between Avion, Lericanin and another that she didn't examine closely. Totally relaxed, sleep carried her into it's embrace.

A lazy mix of emotions, memories, and thoughts drifted through her mind until forming into a dim figure of light sitting nearby. She could hear many things rolling through his mind all at once: concerns about those around him, relief that the dark elf was now dead that he had been tracking all day, missing his guardians and home, sadness and regret over someone named Blaine, and her. His eyes glanced to her and stared as his ghostly white face closed to within inches, or was she nearing him? His voice grew louder as he neared, scanning and investigating her very being as her fear grew. She found she couldn't escape him and suddenly....

Shocked, her green eyes went wide as she backed, sword still grasped as the group around her jumped in unison.

"Kailee, you alright," Lericanin asked, concern in his eyes as Tia also sat up behind her. She found she couldn't break from the green eyes of the stranger sitting beyond the campfire. The veteran studied her quietly as she sat up. His dark hair and tanned face dimly reflected the fire light and she could tell that he was the one who's intrusive spirit had woken her up.

"Who's this," she asked quietly, wiping sandy colored hair out of her eyes.

"His name's Sceva, he's joined us," Avion informed, then turned to their visitor. "This is our friend, Kailee."

He nodded politely as their eyes remained locked.

"Kailee," Lericanin repeated, hammer at the ready. "What's wrong?"

She gently shook her head, entranced until finally able to break the stare and view the concerned captain. "How long has he been here?"

"A bit. He arrived as Avion was finishing off the last archer."

"Actually," Avion corrected. "He and I both killed that one."

"I stand corrected," he looked to the knight of Elminoir. "My apologies."

Sceva raised a hand, "I'm not in this for bragging rights, it's alright. I'm just glad that I could help in the small manner that I did." His mature voice also made Kailee nervous as it commanded respect. "The Lady guided me this morning to this area and I could feel his malevolence and knew that I couldn't allow this evil to go unchecked."

Kailee noted the quiet resolve and wondered how much he knew about her as his green eyes again gravitated to hers.

"Where are you from, if you don't mind me inquiring?"

"The group found me in a ruined temple, east of Carbost," she informed, still nervous.

He nodded, "Orphan?"

She lightened a bit, bastardsword still gripped and laying across her lap. "Yes."

"That's nothing to be ashamed of, so am I actually. My guardians received me when I was very young and I grew up only a few days ride north of here, in Sonvico. I've dedicated myself to Elminoir and she's graced me every day since. Do you follow Arhus also?"

She hesitated for a moment. "I don't fault anyone for their religion, I admire you for it actually. I've found that none of the gods will converse with me except the one that I've come to hate."

His brow furrowed as he mused, staring into the fire between them.

"I've prayed on this matter for some time," Lericanin began. "I've been instructed to protect her to whatever end. We also visited Exmoor, the compound for templar of Arhus and the Knight Commander there greeted her with open arms. I was a bit shocked, actually, especially after some of the treatment that she's suffered on our journey in the hands of those who are a bit more closed-minded."

Sceva nodded. "I trust you in this. It's just that she's unlike anyone I've encountered before. It may take a while to get used to this, but I promise you that if there are any sign of misdeeds, I'm obligated to act."

Kailee wasn't exactly sure what that meant, but she got the impression that she should be on her best behavior.

Page 19 - Ardamurchen

The following eight days took the group deep into the Aran Mountains as the weather began to grow colder. Orange, red and yellow leaves had long fallen to carpet the uneven ground that rose and fell into river canyons that stretched for miles. Soon, they noticed the road opened around a large stone structure on the right and smaller to the left and closer to them. Between and centering the road that continued on through the small compound sat a fountain graced by nymphs in still motion that hovered within the branches of a large tree. White stone quietly amidst overgrown grass and rising ivy was losing the fight against the surrounding forest atop this plateau. They rode into the clearing and neared the back side of the stables to the left and dismounted as Kasar froze. They all peered around the tall columns that fronted the large temple's patio to see the large nose of a red dragon.

Immediately, Alister and Elsea ran back down the road they had just traversed. Kailee watched her friends sprint for their lives, leaving the rest to their fate. She turned and neared the southeastern corner of the stables as Kasar drew his sword; there was something wrong with this. She couldn't smell the breath, no heartbeat and there was no odors that accompanied the green that they encountered in the Dender Swamp.

"Relax, everyone," she began. "It's not real."

"What do you mean it's not real," Kasar accused. "I'm staring at it!"

She turned to Lericanin, "You might want to catch those two before they get too far."

He turned to Avion, hammer at the ready, "Ride back and gather them, would you?"

"Sure," she agreed, hopped back into the saddle and reined the stead back down the road.

"You sure this thing is an illusion," Tia reconfirmed. "It sure looks real to me."

"She's right," Sceva supported. "It's not real after all."

"Only one way to find out," Lericanin stated as he led them up to the nearest corner of the patio. Still, the large beast made no move or sound until the barking of a small dog echoed from deep inside the cavernous great hall. There was also someone else here with it, beyond the yapping guardian.
They eyed the scaley mirage that was impressively realistic as they slowly walked up the broad stairway until the apparition vanished. Beyond the wide doorway, she noted the tall, thick columns that supported the interior ceiling. Evening light reflected from the mottled grey marble topped by green capitals in the form of boughs. On the marble floor, she noticed the tiles arranged in a meadow scene where a younger bard entertained a beautiful lady and the other animals of the forest around them. Four large rooms flanked the large entry with one large door at the rear of the hall made of carved mahogany that hid the barking dog.

"He's not alone," Kailee informed which prompted the group to near the laquered artwork done in similar fashion as the floor with a name centered on scrollwork: Jyestha.

Suddenly, the door opened to reveal a halfling holding back his small pet. "What do you want?"

"You own the place," Lericanin asked, calming from the suspected ambush.

"Not exactly, but this room here is mine for the night. You people can stay in the dorm there," he motioned behind them and across the road to another two-story building that faced the temple.

Lericanin sighed, turned and led most of the group back to their horses and gear, leaving Tia and Kailee staring at the small man.

"Impressive guardian that you had laying in here earlier," Tia congratulated.

"You liked him. He keeps most people away, can't trust the highwaymen that sometimes frequent these areas." His broad, boyish smile belayed his mature voice.

"What is this place," Kailee inquired.

"Ardamurchen. You mean to tell me you've never heard of this great bardic college? Don't get around much, I take it."

"This is our first time here in this kingdom," Tia informed impatiently. "Where did everyone go?"

"Seems Jyestha left when the troubles at home claimed the life of the king and queen of Tywyn. Without him, the place just fell apart."

Kailee looked beyond him into the large, well appointed bedroom and office. "I guess you found the best place to sleep in."

He nodded, pulling the door closer to himself.

Tia grabbed the large barrier between them and yanked, pulling the halfling nearly out onto the floor as his dog jumped out of his arm and ran back under the bed. "What else are you up to in here," Tia mused as she walked inside as Kailee followed. She quickly noticed the long table and shelf pulled aside and the thin crease that outlined a door on the back wall.
The plump, small man jogged between them, backed to the wall, his arms wide. "I claim finder's rights to whatever's in here. I was here first."

"You're nothing but a petty thief," Tia exclaimed.

In shock, his eyes went wide, "I'll have you know that I'm one of the best thieves in the west."

Tia grinned, "Really? What's your name?"

"Haget," he introduced proudly, chest pushed out as small, pudgy hands went to the edges of his maroon jacket.

"Well, Haget, what seems to be the problem?"

"What are you talking about, there's no problem other than the fact that I've been interrupted."

"If you're such a great thief, why isn't this open?"

Kailee watched as the halfling nervously tried to think of the best retort. "He can't find a way in," she interrupted.

His brown eyes shot to her, then softened. "I'll find a way in...somehow."

"Tell you what," Tia began. "What say we help you and get a percentage?"

His brow furrowed, mouth askew as he pondered. "Okay, ten percent."

"Are you mad, we're helping you get inside, fifty," she countered.

"Twenty-five."

She thought for a moment, then glanced to Kailee. "What do you think?"

"I don't need money for anything, whatever you think is best."

She huffed, then turned back to Haget. "Deal."

Kailee watched as her fellow mentalist concentrated, scanning the doorway for its secrets until finally settling on the upper right corner. Thin, long finger tips glided along the crease until tapping an unseen button. A loud clunk echoed deep within the hidden chamber as a soft outgassing emitted stale air into the bedroom. As she pulled the thick opening to them, their small accomplice shot between the gap and ran into the round room. Tia and Kailee quickly followed to see an ivory colored chest with brass fittings and corners to the right of a well made, cherry table that supported a golden statuette. Haget quickly checked the chest as Kailee neared the small figure of a shapely woman, arms upstretched and holding what appeared like a wide sunburst. She stood atop a ball that was in turn supported by a flaring, four-square base. She concentrated and noticed an aura of blue cloud surround the object.

"What is it," Tia asked.

"This is worth the visit," Kailee whispered, still eyeing the object as Tia reached for it and cradled the tall statue.

"What," Haget exclaimed as he sifted through books and a small pouch that jingled when he picked it up. "This is it?" He stood, then turned to notice the statue in Tia's hands. "I want that, here," he handed the pouch to her and reached for the figurine.

"I tell you what," Tia leaned down, handing their find to Kailee. "You walk out of here with your gold and I neglect to tell the Marshall of Baden that rides with us that we've encountered the most notorious thief in the west. What do you think?"

He froze. "You're joking, right?"

"You want to meet him, he's in the dorm with the rest of our friends, come on." She moved to the entrance as the halfling followed, nervously.

"Tell you what, it's been great meeting both of you."

Kailee followed them both into the lavish bedroom as the halfling bent down to look under the bed. "Come on, Beri, we're going." He reached into the dark hiding place, grabbed his small friend and drug him out, grabbed his own backpack and headed quickly out into the great hall as Tia and Kailee followed. They watched him as he faded from view southward and down the road as the evening sun dipped.

"Nice doing business with you," Tia stated as she turned back to the figure that Kailee studied. "What do you think this thing is for?"

"I'm not sure, but I noticed it was made by a mentalist. Lucky for us, eh?"

Page 20 - Royal Welcome

The group rode in a long winding single file line that stretched, at some points, out of sight. Certain areas of the trail were no wider than a horse's breadth as it led northward to the border of Tywyn. Kailee watched as most of the group wrapped themselves tightly in their cloaks and leaned forward.

"Tia, what's wrong?"

"It's getting cold," she half turned, redness in her cheeks and nose more prominent than usual. Kailee didn't comprehend that word as she stared for a moment as wispy fume left Tia's nose with each breath. She sat back into the saddle and watched, crosseyed at the edge of her own nose and noted the outgassing, though much less visible than everyone elses. She studied the phenomenon as it evanesced into the air until the deep river gorge, thinly veiled in the distance by fog and a light rain, was focused into view. How odd.

Eventually, the group stopped at a more level point, she followed her nose and ears through the low hanging clouds as water vapor collected on her and the horse. Everyone else were picked out visually in dissipating grey forms that faded with distance.

"We're at the border," Elsea announced as she dismounted onto the rocky ground.

"It must be midday," Lericanin stated, his normal deep voice muffled in the thick atmosphere.

"How can you tell," Alister wondered aloud.

"My stomach's growling," he mentioned as he dismounted and walked to follow the princess. "My lady, are we looking for something in particular?"

Suddenly, Kailee noted a stranger emerge from the treeline and by the smell of him, an elf. He spoke in their language to Elsea for a moment and she conversed in return, seemingly excited, then turned to them.

"This captain is going to lead us to Menai. He stated that the trek west may take a week or so. My brother is there helping defend the city from orcs and has been for some time now."

"What are we waiting for," Lericanin began. "We can eat on the way."

* * *

Kailee could tell that the sylvan forest around them had seen better days. Animal sign was nowhere except for near the rivers and streams which she hunted at one night of the journey, bringing back a deer for the group, much to the chagrin of their elven escort.
Menai was nestled within the southern face of forested mountains and fronted the Bandon River that apparently flowed west to the shores beyond their own border. As they crossed the stone bridge over a cascading waterfall, she noticed how their architecture was built around the trees and with the contour of the rocky land, spotted with mossy grass and beautiful gardens dappled with the previous night's snow. Intricate carvings into the frames and elegant columns along long patios told stories that Kailee and her friends could only guess at as they neared a long, multi-storied building. An entourage of five cloaked elves approached and bowed to Elsea as she dismounted and greeted the party. She followed as they led the group up the stairs and into the richly appointed parlor. A central statue of a cloaked female stood staring at a book cradled in her raised arms and appeared as if she could step off of the granite pedestal.

Soon, they were led into a great hall and she recgonized the familiarity of the male half-elf as he turned with broadened smile and ran to Elsea. They embraced as if they hadn't seen each other for years, his officers and other nobility looking on from the long table. After a moment, Elsea turned, still gripping onto her brother's arm and introduced the group.

"These are my friends: Lericanin, Alister, Avion, Kasar, Tia, Kailee, and Sceva. Everyone, this is my brother, Prince Ansham."

Kailee noticed that each of those mentioned bowed and she followed suit. His blue tunic was bloodstained and torn in places, light brown hair dishevelled and matched the worn look in his young face.

"I owe you all a debt of gratitude that I will never be able to repay, thank you," he stated in accented Astaran. "If you need anything of our crafters, please feel free. I'll see to your lodging and your mounts."

"We are honored, your Highness," Lericanin bowed again. "Fulfilling my vow to see this mission through is my gratitude. However, I see that your Highness is in a fight, if there's any way we can help, just say the word."

Ansham nodded respectfully as Kasar stepped up. "Sire, I couldn't help but notice the river below. How far does it flow?"

"All the way to the Erivan, why do you ask?"

"You wouldn't happen to have any boats, would you?"

His brow furrowed, the prince's smile faded. "We have no need of a navy, I'm sorry."

"Kasar," Tia called in warning and shot the Sauqiran an angry look, prompting him to back a step.

After placing their gear into a second story bedroom, Kailee followed Tia down a flight of stairs and through the town, shrouded in greenery gripped in many areas by thick patches of snow until they neared the rocky shores of the wide, fast river. In shock, she gazed to the far shore to notice the blackened landscape all along the hillside and as far as she could see to the east and west. Dark, exposed trunks pointed into the air, bereft of their past lives.

"Who could do something like that?" Kailee asked, disgusted.

"Elsea stated that this barony has been fighting off orc incursions for nearly a year. I imagine they did it."

"You know, the only enemy I had growing up were humans. I'm starting to think they are the least of my problems."

Tia glanced at her sidelong. "I appreciate that."

Kailee's green eyes looked to her friend suddenly, embarrassed. "I didn't mean it the way that sounded."

Grinning, the brunette looked back to the river. "I know what you meant."

Kailee reached out and wrapped her arms around her sister and hugged her tightly, laying her head on the small shoulder. As she enjoyed the moment, her eyes drifted to the far side and noticed a quartet of darkly armored individuals stop, pull their bows and draw them. Kailee quickly pulled Tia down and behind cover as several arrows whistled passed and bounced off of a boulder nearby.

Still holding onto her friend, "Are you alright?"

"I'm fine. Who was that?"

"Orc patrol," she mentioned as a host of arrows sped across the river from Menai in response. Seeing their opportunity, both jumped up and ran back up through the forest to the safety of better cover.

* * *

As the night wore on, the dinner they enjoyed in the Great Hall was a feast that Kailee suspected had not been displayed in this town for some time. All of the nobility, their families and friends sat around ten long tables under the light of hanging chandeliers of tall candles and the immense fireplace. Kailee's nostrils were assaulted with many forms of prepared meats, vegetables, breads as well as perfumes and flower arrangements that graced the centerpieces.
After the revelry led by a talented group of bards, Elsea gathered the group near the long patio.

"I've enjoyed traveling with all of you, but I fear that this is where my journey ends. My brother needs me and I should stay, there are still many things that need to be done here."

Lericanin and the others stood uncomfortably for a moment. "Are you sure that we can't help?" he offered.

"No. There are many here that don't trust humans but, I'll never forget any of you. Whenever you wish to come and visit, please don't hesitate."

"We certainly look forward to that," Lericanin promised as Avion approached and hugged Elsea tightly. Of the group, they two had become the closest and Kailee could feel the young gypsy's heart breaking.

"I'll be seeing you soon," Elsea said, more as a question.

"Of course," Avion returned.

Page 21 - Sonvico

After the long goodbye, the group headed back east through the snowy mountains. Blizzards and deep snow kept them from making good time as at certain points the drifts were chest high. Kailee had never seen anything like this before as the surrounding white carpet glistened in the noonday sun. A scene that nearly brought tears to her eyes.

Once they finally descended the slopes towards the town below them, Kailee noticed through the pine a road that cut through the forest from small camps and seemed to end at the base of the mountain. No one stirred however as they neared and directed their steads through the nearest clump of cabins. That's when she noticed the large cave that had been cut into the side, yawning like a large wound that had been carved by it's ant-like neighbors.

"What is this place," she asked Tia and Avion who flanked her.

"A mining camp," Sceva informed. "Merchants have been making a fortune from the ore that they carve out of these mountains. That's how my home of Sonvico was born," he motioned down the road to the southeast. They proceeded to follow the knight of Elminoir along the well trodden path until reaching a side road where he stopped. A tavern in the distance caught many travelers before they reached the protective walls of the town beyond.

"You are all welcome to stay with me here at the compound," he invited.

"Be nice to get warm again," Avion stated. "Can't beat free room and board," she eyed the others.

"I need to get to town and take care of some business," Lericanin mentioned apologetically. "I appreciate the offer though."

"As you wish," Sceva nodded.

"You have to understand," Tia began. "He's been without companionship for at least two months now."

The older knight smiled, "I understand. If any others wish to stay, come and be my guests."

"We'll see you at the inn at daybreak," Lericanin proposed as he and Alister rode off.

As Avion followed behind Sceva down the covered path, Tia eyed Kailee, "Where do you want to sleep tonight?"

"We can go with Sceva, I trust him." She noted the apprehension in Tia's mind immediately as her friend nodded, reined her horse to the left and led towards the compound. Kailee's eyes drifted among the thick branches overhead that vainly tried to keep the white powder from hitting the ground, still holding some in their broad hands and along dark grey arms. As they rounded a stand of spruce, Sceva led over a solid wooden bridge and into an area that appeared like a rounded courtyard. Flanked on all sides were tall stone structures of two and three stories fronted by flowers, bushes and trees of all sorts. Centered in the courtyard stood an ancient tree that towered over the workshops, dormitories, great hall and chapel with stables and other buildings beyond. Kailee, Avion and Tia dismounted as Sceva led his horse to the right and tied him off near a trough.

"Get that beast out of here," an older man commanded from their right. Kailee and the others turned to notice the tall, armored knight draw his sword, anger in his blue eyes as Sceva moved to intercept him.

"Hold, friend. What seems amiss?" Sceva asked, right hand across the elder's path.

The knight glared at Kailee. "I will not allow you to bring that in here, friend. Remove her immediately, or I will."

Sceva's green eyes turned back to the trio as Avion also drew her own sword. "What is it that you see, milord?"

"Sceva," Tia called. "It's alright, we'll leave."

He nodded, backing from his fellow brother-in-arms. "This is my responsibility, I'll handle it."

"I suggest that you do. How could you become so blind?"

Sceva grabbed the reins of his mount and led him towards the entrance. "The Lady has taught me to judge rightly, I've seen no evil in any of them." He stopped them on the path as they headed towards the main highway. "What's going on?"

Kailee eyed him, ready to fight or bolt. "I was told that I'm half vampire by the Knight Commander of Exmoor some months ago. I'm sorry we didn't tell you before but, we were all still getting to know you."

Sceva stared blankly, then eyed the bright sky that pierced the snow laden boughs above. Kailee hung on that moment as she awaited sentence.

He grinned and looked back at her. "If he didn't smite you there, then how can I judge you? I've seen you and Tia help those in trouble when they're wounded and that isn't the nature of what I've been hunting over the years."

"What should we tell the others," Avion inquired.

"I'm going to stay here tonight, but I'll meet you at the tavern in the morning. I have many things to tend to as well as gain some guidance in this matter."

"Alright." They rode on to the town and Kailee wondered what was going to happen now.

"Maybe we should leave sooner," Tia suggested.

"No." Avion countered. "He's become a valuable member of the group and we could use his insights during our journey."

Tia nodded, and stared towards the northwestern gate. Kailee knew they wouldn't sleep soundly that night.

Page 22 - Deliverance in Baden

A grey morning greeted them as Kailee awoke with her back to Tia and stared across to Avion in the opposite bed. It had been some time since they had slept in anything comfortable and it was hard to leave this one not knowing how long they would have to wait for another. Birds cheerfully sang their praises to a new day as she wondered about the incident the day before. The knight seemed so angry even without giving her a chance to introduce herself. How long would it be before someone acted without warning?

'Had you not denied me, you wouldn't have to suffer these things, my daughter.' Familiar heat swathed her body and made her uncomfortable and she prayed that Tia couldn't feel his presence.

'She's already embraced me, just as you should.'

'If you truly cared, you wouldn't press my opinions,' she thought in return. 'I already told you once, leave me alone.'

'You know, it's very unfortunate that you are so blind to this world. I rule the night and the dark places of the world, those places many fear to tread. Imagine how powerful you could be if you could master your fear, command your heart and mind so that nothing can harm you ever again. Without me, these idiots that judge by appearance would've staked you to their door long ago. They desire to make an example out of you so that they can sleep with a clear conscience according to their twisted dogma. Do you actually think that I'm going to ignore my progeny that is very special? You don't realize how unique you are and the potential that you have. With my guidance, kings would bow to you, my love.'

'All I want is this, right here. I want to know peace and be anonymous. I couldn't care less about power, riches or glory. Give that to someone who does.'

'These things aren't meant for anyone else but you and I.'

'I disagree.'

His anger heated the room beyond normal and she wondered if the blanket would catch fire until the humidity ebbed away. She turned over to see Tia staring up at the ceiling, then glance to her as sweat beaded on her forehead and nose. "You okay?"

Tia sighed, "Yes. You know that won't be the last time you hear from him."

* * *

After Sceva joined them that morning, they struck out for Baden which was another ten day journey. Once arriving in the quieter city, they headed for the tavern that they had stayed at during their last visit and got rooms as well as hot baths. Once Tia had nearly pruned, they returned to their room where Avion cleaned her weapons.

"How was it," the auburn haired gypsy asked.

"Divine," Tia smiled as she plopped onto the bed. "Makes me wish we could stay here a few days."

"Maybe we can. It may be some time before another ship is ready to head east anyway."

As they spoke, Kailee felt an odd sensation that began in her feet and felt like molasses as it flowed upward. Frantically, she tried to escape as the glowing red eyes filled her mind, his presence enveloped her and she tried to scream.

'If you will not give me what I wish, I'll take it.' Her body fought and tried to keep him out of her secret parts but, his strength pushed. Her anger and desperation pressed her claws into his neck and back, hot blood flowed down his back and down her thighs as the nightmare wore on. She fought with every ounce of strength she had left until a bright light invaded the hot red cloud that enshrouded her being and stopped his attack.

'This is your choice,' the calm, angelic voice stated. 'I will help, but I need your cooperation to stave off this abuse.'

Through tear filled eyes, 'Help me', she pleaded.

Suddenly, his anger superheated her very soul as his arms tried to keep ahold of her while being dragged backwards. 'You think you've won, we'll see who laughs last, bit.....'

She collapsed from exhaustion and embraced the cool, dark quiet.

As she came to, aching and sore, she heard Avion's voice in the room speaking to Lericanin. Tia lay beside her and she could tell that her friend had been through her nightmare also.

"How's she doing," Avion asked.

"We'll know in time. Keep everyone else out for now, okay?" he whispered.

"Alright. Here, I brought you something to eat," she stated, setting the tray on the small table underneath the window.

"Thanks, Avion."

"Of course."

As Avion was leaving, tears streamed down Kailee's cheeks uncontrollably. Her hand went to her face in a vain attempt of silencing the emotion but, she couldn't control it any longer. Someone wrapped their arms around her as she cried.

"You're safe now," Avion assured. "I promise," as she began to weep along with her.

As soon as she could regain her composure, "What happened," Kailee asked, sniffing. Eyes still glazed, she could sense Lericanin approach and kneel beside the bed, also emotional.

"I prayed to Arhus for your protection and we sent that bastard back where he belongs." His arms also enveloped both girls for a moment until Kailee backed, wiping her eyes and cheeks.

"Is Tia alright," she asked.

"She'll be fine," Avion informed. "We gave you both some herbs and you've been asleep for over a day. Sceva also prayed for both of you. How are you feeling?"

"Tired."

"We'll stay here as long as we need to," Lericanin wiped his reddened cheeks and reclaimed his chair near the bed. "I'm not leaving, I'll be right here."

Kailee pushed out a smile and closed her eyes. "Thank you. Everyone," she added to whoever she saw in the vision during the attack and felt a wash that cooled the sweat.

That night she awoke again and noticed Tia lying across her back, her hand on Kailee's. "Hello," Kailee greeted quietly as Lericanin slept nearby in the chair.

"How are you?"

"I'm fine, you?"

"Okay. I've been reconsidering the path that we've been walking these past months and I think it's time for a change."

Kailee waited for the rest of the idea to formulate. As the moments went on, she finally asked. "What change?"

"Everyone else has been following the ones that help them instead of take. Maybe we could start following one of the good deities."

"Are you sure that He's going to allow that?"

"It's not up to Him, it's up to us. I'm ready for a change, how about you?"

"I never went to Him in the first place, he always came to me."

The following morning, Kailee found she and Tia had ended up in a church dedicated to Yaeby, the deity of good fortune and youth. As she knelt at the front of the large chapel she closed her eyes, Tia beside her.
"I don't know exactly how this works but, I thank you for Father Herblon in Carbost who was the inspiration for this visit. He's always been there when we needed him and my grandparents have always enjoyed making their offerings to you. It only seemed natural."

Silence.

Page 23 - Raid in the Midlands

A long journey back to the port city of Ashton brought the group to the beginning of the road that would lead to Carbost - in about two months or so. Kailee had known the first days of peace in a long while and actually enjoyed the boat trip this time. She still, however got no answer from Yaeby or any others when she prayed and meditated at night. There were no illusions that since the dark elf that was chasing Elsea was dead and Sater had been pushed out of her life that things would be all roses, she wasn't that ignorant. But, she would definitely enjoy the moments that she did have.

Continuing on after the short visit to Exmoor, the group camped south of the town of Skara, the southern border of the newly established Duchy of Ashton. Lericanin built the campfire in a sunken pit and shrouded it from view in the distance, except from high above. Kailee lay down after meditating and closed her eyes. Soon, the strong, pungent odor of burning wood and hay wafted with the breeze from the southeast. She sat up and turned her attention that way, concentrating on the wind.

"What is it," Lericanin asked, also peering in the same direction.

"Something's burning. Like the forest, or a home," she informed.

He rose, tapping Alister on the boot to wake him up as he gathered his equipment and began strapping on his armor. Kailee shook Tia who eyed her unhappily.

"What," she asked until noticing the activity as Sceva and Avion also arose and gathered weapons.

"What's going on," Sceva asked, grabbing his sword belt and strapping it on.

"Kailee noticed something burning to the southeast. A few of us should go check this out, just in case." Leicanin eyed Avion, "Maybe you and Kasar should watch after the camp."

"Alright," she nodded, bow in hand.

Kailee followed the group through the dark woods until reaching the treeline to gaze across a snow covered field to firelight blazing from three buildings. The silhouettes of a mass of orcs herding screaming women and children into the back of two covered wagons grabbed everyone's attention.

"We're going to need everyone," Lericanin informed Alister who ran back and gathered the camp guards. She watched as the orcs pushed the last of their prizes into the second wagon and slammed the heavy doors shut, then locked it as a few others mounted onto the driver's bench, some armed with crossbows.

"Where would they be taking them," Tia wondered aloud.

"They won't be taking them anywhere," Lericanin stated, anger welling as the pounding of horses hooves announced the remaining trio as they arrived. "Kasar, you and Avion try and keep those wagons from leaving. The rest of us will hit their flank," he instructed as they rose and began moving across the field.

Kailee watched as the pair of mounted friends spurred their horses along the woodline and headed for the road as a yell echoed through the cracking and popping from the large bonfires. They had been spotted. Tia followed the trio of fighters as they moved line abreast towards the orcs who began launching arrows and gathering swords as the wagons began to escape. She moved up with Tia as several of the orcs intercepted Avion and Kasar and attacked, trying to stall them. The screams of those locked in the cages grabbed her heart and she knew that she had to do something as the clash of shields erupted.
Sprinting, she ran passed the fight with the mounted duo who charged through the weak line and headed for their quarry. Wind blew through her long hair, sending a constant blast through her ears so that she could hear nothing else. Quickly overtaking the first wooden fortress on wheels, she leaped at the driver, claws extended. He belted out a gutteral scream as she grabbed his shirt and threw him off of the bench as the second turned with the crossbow. She dodged as the bolt flew past and leaped at him, eyes aglow as the horses continued to sprint. He threw himself off of the bench, narrowly evading her claws which grabbed the raised guard to the seat and kept herself from following him as he crashed into the white ground. Now all she had to do was find a way to stop this thing. Turning, she grabbed the reins and pulled backwards hard and to the right. Whinnying loud protests, the horses wrenched the vehicle to starboard and halted, narrowly giving themselves concussions within the bordering trees. Job accomplished, she jumped off and charged for the second.

Energy fueled the pursuit as she could hear the heartbeats of each of those taken from their homes and awaiting an unknown destiny in the hands of these monsters. Finally nearing the wake of the escaping large form racing from the scene of the crime, she noticed a young boy watch with wide eyes as she ran passed the cage and attacked the driver. Surprised, the orc tried to fight back, punching as she grabbed his arm and wrenched, pulling him out of the seat and sending him flying. As she pulled herself up to face the second, he began motioning with his hands and sent a blast of fire that enveloped her. Resisting, her clothes singed and repelled the blast. Unsheathing her sword, she stabbed him in the chest as he tried to dodge, doubling him over. As he fell, she withdrew her blade and kicked him off the side of the seat and grabbed for the reins. Being a bit more careful this time, she sat down and gently pulled backwards on the leather straps and slowed the huffing quartet, then turned them back towards the farm and the group.

Midway, Avion and Tia rode up on their horses and halted, weapons at the ready.

"Avion, this is more your expertise, if you don't mind." Kailee moved aside while the petite Kuzomeni rode up beside the bench and climbed on after handing her reins to Tia.

"Not bad," Avion congratulated as she snapped the reins and drove them back to the first wagon, still standing where she had left it. As Kailee dismounted, she noticed Kasar laying in the snow to the side of the first wagon, his horse looking on.

"What happened to him," she asked.

"They didn't see the wagon until it was too late," Tia chuckled as she moved to assist the unconscious Sauqiran. "I heard the loud crash into the side as he hit it when his horse skidded to a halt."

Avion moved to the rear of the first wagon and picked the lock, allowing the captured farmers to disgorge, then moved to the second, freeing them as Lericanin, Alister and Sceva approached.

"Nice of you gentlemen to join us," Tia chided as she nursed Kasar's forehead.

"We were occupied," Lericanin informed, unamused as women and children cried and moved towards them.

"Thank you," an elderly woman thanked. "The gods will bless you, always."

Lericanin smiled, moved by the gesture as he motioned to the others, "They did the work".

Sceva stepped up. "We'll help you get to Skara until you can find a place to stay. I just thank the Lady for allowing us to help you."

Kailee quietly stood to the side and watched as most of them asked about husbands, sons and brothers. Most of whom, she knew didn't survive, giving their lives to protect their families. As a soft breeze picked up, she noticed something different about Sceva. A scent emanated from him that she had never noticed before - almost cat-like.

Page 24 - Return to the Dender Swamp

Varberg was the northern walled town that greeted travelers who had just braved the notorious swamp to the south or was the place others gathered up their strength and herbs before adventuring through the murky road for perhaps the last time. It boasted the finest in agricultural land, a temple to each of the three benevolent deities whose dominion dealt with the land and had a colorful history.

Kailee noticed Sceva buying a large amount of food and other things in the marketplace that evening as they arrived and approached him. With the snows now through for the year, a calmer climate brought back the life in the forests.
"You planning on a feast tonight," she asked.

He turned and smiled. "You don't know what today is?"

She shook her head and shrugged.

"It's the first of Rajen, the beginning of Onebro. A time that life is reborn to the world after enduring the long cold of Saflia. This is the day that we celebrate our Lady and all that she's given us."

"Hmm." She curiously studied all the things that he gathered: herbs, berries and other fruits as well as a bottle of wine, and wondered if now was the right time and place to ask. "How long was it before She actually spoke to you?"

His green eyes studied her for a moment. "Actually, I've never heard Her verbally. I hear her through nature itself. The gods don't answer anyone directly, they have too many people around the world that could command their time if that were true. She would never have time to direct and help her creation if she kept tending to my problems and worries all the time."

"Apparently, not all of them feel that way," she referred to the Lord of the Underworld.

His mood softened as he straightened. "You seem to be a special case in many respects."

"If that's true, why don't the others show me in some way that they're listening?"

"Maybe they have; you have to understand their nature before you can recognize their answers. You've been given a second chance, good fortune and life itself. Isn't that proof enough?"

She hadn't thought of it in that light. She smiled, "I'm certainly glad you decided to join us."

He chuckled. "Sometimes things aren't readily prevalent when first you discover them."

"Such as?"

"Victor's snoring. I've tried to get him to stop but, he's set in his ways." His trusted mount of course wasn't available to defend himself.

Kailee laughed.

* * *

A quiet apprehension crept into the group as they entered the humid barrier between the Midlands and the Frontier. Stretching for miles in all directions, the Dender Swamp's oppressive reputation was fueled by the evils that lurked within it. Kailee made sure that Tia stayed in the wagon with her this time as they traveled towards the first of two bridges that crossed the main rivers that fed the swamp.
Her mind piqued as the familiar presence introduced himself with his retinue of undead soldiers waiting on the far side.

"Company," Avion announced as she stopped the wagon.

Kailee grabbed Tia's arm as her friend moved to exit, "Where are you going?"

"I'm going to help the others," determination in the young, hazel eyes told Kailee that this wasn't up for discussion.

Kailee swallowed hard, remembering the last time they encountered the black paladin, and followed. As they rounded the wagon, they noticed him charge as Sceva rode forward to contain the fight on the bridge itself. Bracing, the dark lance unhorsed him, knocking him to the edge of the bridge as Lericanin, Alister and Kasar moved to engage. Turning, the black knight led his prey back to the waiting soldiers, bait that the human fighters embraced hungrily. Kailee moved quickly to the bridge as Avion and Tia joined her as they watched Sceva push himself up and join the fray.
Clash of steel echoed through the forest, feeding their malevolent surroundings with the thrill of conflict. Kailee moved up as the fighters pressed the advantage that Arhus fed them and looked into the face, between the narrow opening in the full helmet to see the glowing yellow eyes glaring back at her. As his troops slowly lost their foothold on the bridge, he turned his horse and fled, the group in pursuit. Following the rumbling of horses hooves, they finally corralled him in the ruin of a tower. Jutting from the ground, nearly half of the structure had collapsed and was nearly covered in ivy and moss. He turned, sword in hand and braced as Lericanin and Alister charged him. Kailee watched as they attacked, parried and thrusted until finally catching the knight with sword and hammer. Blue pulses emanated from the strikes, sending the knight backwards to the ground, crashing into several barrels.

As he looked up to them, Kailee moved to get a good view as the pair of fighters loomed over their fallen adversary. "Thank you," he said. In confusion, she watched as his body disintegrated into a swirling ash that settled to the ground.

She looked at Lericanin and Alister as they turned to leave. "What did he mean by that?"

"I don't know," Lericanin shrugged, adrenaline still pumping. She followed back to the bridge where Tia treated the wounded.

Page 25 - Final Separation

Beams of sunlight shone through the tall, newly budded canopy above the road as they headed northeast to Soderham, the strong citadel that rested atop the foothills of the Black Mountains. Up along the winding road that traversed the steep slope, the tall grey walls of the Frontier's magical prison came into view. Kailee felt uncomfortable as this city was built above a dead zone for magic users, a perfect place to contain enemy mages. Avion led the wagon through the thick gates as armored guards stepped aside and waved them passed.
Entering the bustling marketplace, they noticed the displaced from Fort William which had been razed by the large orc army. The remaining survivors defended themselves in the main keep until an unlikely army of elves came to their rescue which still remained as the group passed through not four days ago. This war had forged new alliances with Kevelaer which had never been known in any of the history texts.

"Going to be interesting finding rooms," Tia mentioned dryly as the wagon stopped in front of an inn. Kailee watched as Kasar went inside to inquire as to vacancies. He soon exited, shaking his head. After he climbed back into the saddle, they moved on to another on the eastern side of town where they found three rooms available. She gathered her backpack and climbed out through the back door and headed inside as the others saw to the horses and followed.

"I'm thinking this is an opportunity to try and sell some of those trinkets that I found," Kasar proposed, smiling. "City full of people, there's bound to be someone interested in a little luck."

"I'll go with you," Tia volunteered, then turned to Kailee, "You want to go?"

"Actually, I think I'm going to stay here."

She nodded, "Okay. I just need a break for a while. Be nice to get some news also." They headed upstairs to the room and set their things on the floor as Avion did the same. Kailee followed Tia back down the long wooden staircase into the busy main room full of travelers and guards taking a quick lunch. She sat across from Sceva and Lericanin as the rest filed back out into the noonday sun.

"You not wishing to go with Tia," Sceva asked.

"Not right now," she shook her head as a plump serving girl set a wooden plate of bread between them. She still felt odd in this town, cut off from a large part of herself. As they ate and had light conversation, Avion pushed open the front door and came running to their table, fear in her eyes.

"Kasar's been killed," she belted out, eyes wide.

"What? How?" Lericanin asked, standing.

"He and Tia got in an argument with a paladin over the trinkets he was selling and they started fighting. Tia kicked the knight in the head as he lay there and ran."

Kailee immediately jumped up and headed for the door as the rest filed out behind her. She had to find her friend before she was caught by the guards and get her out of here. Amidst the odors, scents and perfumes, she searched through the crowd to find that one familiar individual that she knew better than anyone. Down long, crowded streets, back alleys and narrow boulevards, her nose followed the breezes and soon found a hint of what she was searching for. Turning right, she ran passed vendors, children and priests to find her sister hiding in a narrow side street beside a short stair.

"What happened," she asked, kneeling beside Tia, sitting on the warm flagstone.

"I don't know. He started arguing with Kasar about the pieces being symbols of witchcraft and we started arguing with him. The next thing I know, swords were brandished and they both hit the ground, bleeding. Priests of Elminoir raced out and took Kasar to their church as the paladin's friends carried him to their clerics." Her left hand ran through her black hair and cradled her head in disbelief.

"Lericanin and Sceva went to see Kasar with Avion. They're going to be looking for you also."

Tia perked up and looked over Kailee's shoulder. Turning, they both watched Avion walk up. "There you are, I've been looking for you. Lericanin says that you need to talk to the magistrate about what's happened."

Tia shook her head. "No. I can't."

"Why not?"

"Assaulting a paladin," Tia stressed as she leaned forward. "They'll bury me in the tower."

Avion peered over the stone stairs passed them to the wall in the distance. "It's going to be nearly impossible to sneak you out, we'll have to wait until nightfall. By then, the guards will have scoured the streets looking for you. It's only a matter of time."

Kailee eyed her dearest friend as her mind raced for a solution. "I'll get you out."

"How?" Avion asked.

Kailee stood, taking Tia's hand in her own and drew her near. "Meet us by the waterfall to the east."
Concentrating, their bodies both evanesced into a thin, wispy black cloud that rose into the air and drifted over the wall with the wind and soon descended into the distant forest near the waterfall that they had camped at many months before. As she guided them to the ground, Kailee scanned the surroundings and found no one other than the animals to see their escape. Gently resting in the thick, green grass, they reformed into their separate bodies.

Tia looked back up through the surrounding trees in the direction of the city. "You're a great friend to have."

Kailee eyed her, half grinning. "Lericanin was right, you shouldn't be running from them."

Tia's smile faded. "I know. But, I still have to find my father and I can't do that from a cell." She backed away. "Why did you help me if you don't agree with this?"

"Because, I love you and I don't want to see anything bad happen."

"Your love has gotten you in trouble also since you helped me escape."

"Okay."

Tia smiled, then looked up into the trees around them. "It won't take long before Lericanin comes down here looking for us. We should both go invisible and hide up in the trees."

Eventually, the prediction came true as the shadows became longer while the constant rush of falling water was interrupted by the nearing of two horses. Kailee watched from high on a branch to see Lericanin approach with another, older man. His surcoat sported the heraldry of Soderham: a white field over black separated by a jagged line with the symbol of Arhus centered. Grey in his hair and van dyke told of a veteran but a kindness in his face also endeared him somewhat.

"Tia, we know you're out here. You need to come out and face the penalty for your crimes."

"It was self defense," she stated from a tree to Kailee's right and also invisible.

"If it was self defense, why did you run?" the magistrate asked.

"I know how this works, sir. Irregardless of the truth, a knight was struck in public. You can't ignore that and I could die for it. He killed Kasar for no reason and I was just to sit idly by and let it happen?"

Lericanin tried to see the defendant in the tree she was speaking from. "Kasar's alive, he's under the care of the priests of Elminoir and being tended by them as we speak. Tia, this is pointless, come down."

"No."

Kailee watched as both men pondered their next course of action. She could tell that this situation was bothering their captain in many ways and watched as they conversed.

"What do you wish me to do, milord," Lericanin asked quietly.

He sighed, looking back up to the tree. "Gain her trust. I will leave and if you can, bring her to me."

Lericanin nodded and watched as the elder knight turned his horse and departed. He then turned his gaze back into the boughs. "I can't believe you would allow yourself to get mixed up in something like this. Why on earth would you strike a paladin in public in the first place?"

Tia remained quiet.

"Tia!" he called, his voice echoing through the forest and gaining no answer. "Fine! If this is how you want it, I can't associate with you any longer. I took you in as a friend, we've fought side-by-side and this is how you repay that friendship." He shook his head in disgust, turned his horse and left.

They both climbed down and reappeared as Tia approached. "We don't need them anyway."

Kailee was torn. How could she abandon either? "I'll go with you," she acquiesced and followed her friend up into the foothills as they traveled east.

* * *

Six days later, the duo made their way through the lush, green forests in the direction of Carbost. It would be some time before they reached the main hub for their group and hopefully, wouldn't encounter....

Kailee fell into the crashing, false floor and suddenly hit hard on her back. As she gazed up through the settling dust, she felt the pain of the stakes that pertruded through her stomach, right thigh and left shoulder. Every slight movement made her body scream as tears welled up in her eyes.
As the sun lightened the greenery high above, an armored man emerged from the right edge of the pit, spear in hand that had no tip. He smiled evilly at her, two teeth missing on the left side and sparse beard. She suddenly realized that she couldn't sense Tia anywhere.

"Hello, beast," he grinned, spear gripped and pointed into the pit. "I've been waiting some time to finally catch up to you. Before you die, know that your father will finally be free of the abomination that has plagued him for years since your grandfather brought you to him. I've never killed a vampire before, I'm going to enjoy this."

As he drew back with the sharpened spear, she concentrated through the pain, not only physical, but also emotional. He launched the long projectile into the spot where she lay as her body shifted into the black cloud, rose into the air to face him as his eyes went wide. He backed as she reformed and attacked him, claws raking his neck as she punched, sending him flying backwards into the tree behind him. She charged and for what seemed like eternity, tore the bounty hunter to pieces in a rage, crying as blood sprayed and colored the surrounding ferns and grass. Covered in glistening red, her visage took on the demon that he had come to kill as she stood over the remains, eyes aglow and fangs bare. As she calmed, she turned to see the empty forest where Tia had been. She quickly ran over to the opposite side of the pit. Sighing, she relaxed and her defenses retracted as she frantically scanned the surroundings for any sign. Tia was gone.

Page 26 - Dwarven Contingent

Over the next four days, Kailee traversed the mountainous terrain to the outskirts of Carbost. On the wind was the faint residue of orc; their blood stained the surrounding fields for miles. In the waning daylight, she could also see the different colored blocks on the tops of the walls around the western gate and nearby towers. Their journey west had avoided a battle, she just hoped that Alister's family and her grandparents were alright.

As she walked to the gate along the road, she noticed most of the farms that were on this side of the city had been reduced to their stone foundations now jutting up from the swaying grass. She soon approached the gatehouse as four armed guards stood watch. They had one of the doors still open as they appeared to be readying to lock up for the night. Eyes gravitated to her as she approached and scanned the dress she wore and she realized that the holes that had been made when she had fallen into the pit still remained.

"Have you been wounded, lass," an elderly soldier asked.

"Some time ago, sir. I'm fine now." In fact, they had fully healed within two days without leaving any scars.

"Orcs?" he eyed the distant treeline beyond her, sunlight glinting off of his battered breastplate and greaves.

"No sir, hunter."

He nodded. "Are you a citizen of Carbost?"

"I was born here and my grandparents live on the eastern side, yes." She hoped that was enough.

He nodded and moved aside as they watched her pass and she could sense their eyes follow her beyond the temple of Elminoir as she quickly headed to Alister's uncle's home. As night fell, she reached the residential area that tightly flanked the narrow street lit by torches. She rounded the entryway to the alley that led to their stables and could hear the group inside. The wagon was parked near the rear of the home and in front of the well as she headed into the stables. Darkness became lighter as her eyes adjusted and she quickly found the ladder that led up into the loft where she climbed for some rest. Footsteps soon approached as she lay on the hay covered floor and she could smell Lericanin as the surrounding barrels and crates lit up from his candle.

"Kailee," he called as she turned over to eye him.

"Hello."

He knelt down beside her as his eyes glanced to the holes in the tan dress. "What happened?"

Emotion welled, "Tia's gone. I also found out that my father in Bakony sent a hunter to kill me," her fingers poked at her exposed stomach as she began to cry.

He lay beside her, wrapping his arms around her. "You're safe now, that's all that matters."

"I'm sorry for what happened."

"It's alright. Just relax," he calmly said and she finally fell asleep.

* * *

Calls from the rooster woke Kailee to the morning as activity below in the stables announced Alister's younger brother, Darian as he tended to his chores. She rolled onto her stomach and noticed Lericanin still asleep as Alister climbed the ladder and poked his head up. As he rose into the loft his eyes widened.

"When did you get back," he asked, excitedly.

"Last night," she tried quieten the conversation.

"Where's Tia?"

She swallowed hard, "Gone".

His smile faded in the dim light spilling through the large, square hole in the floor. "Probably for the best."

She half-grinned as her eyes gazed to the floor and then to her bunk mate as his head turned to her. "You alright?"

Nodding, she rose to kneel and brushed herself off.

"Breakfast is almost ready," Alister announced.

Lericanin sat up, "Alright, thanks."

"It's good to have you back, Kailee," Alister smiled, then turned and headed back down the ladder.

Kailee stood as Lericanin yawned and stretched, then stood with her. "Any idea where she went?"

"No."

"Listen, I know you miss her but, we're all a family and will always be. Don't forget that. Tia made her choice."

Kailee nodded, still not totally convinced as the hole in her heart still hurt.

"What happened to the hunter that you encountered?" he asked as he followed her to the ladder.

"He's also gone."

"Hmm. We'll keep an eye out for him then."

She began down the ladder and eyed him blankly, "I killed him".

His blue eyes studied her for a moment, "Good. Although, I wish you would've saved him for me. I would've had the honor of gutting the fool for what he did."

As she descended, she noticed the young stablehand as Darian glanced to her and smiled, pitchfork in hand as he cleaned out the stalls. Nodding an acknowledgement, she continued on into the house to see the others.

That afternoon, Alister returned with two dwarves. Kailee and Avion sat on the rear step of the wagon as they noticed the twins stroll up confidently with their host.

"Kailee, Avion, I'd like you to meet Rupert and his brother Thurgen," Alister motioned to the redheads. Long braided beards fell down over their breastplates. Tattoos peeked out between greaves whose artistry was patiently conceived and rendered. Thurgen carried a hammer that was nearly as tall as he was which also sported amazing carvings in the handle and etchings in the metal. Rupert's axe was also as impressive as they tossed their backpacks near the rear wheel of the wagon.

"It's a pleasure," Thurgen offered a small, beefy hand to Avion who accepted it.

"Nice to meet you both," Avion greeted and Kailee grinned.

"Where's the rest that you spoke of," Rupert wondered aloud, producing a pewter mug and small cask from his backpack.

"Tia is gone and Kasar has gone his own way also. The rest are probably in town and should be back soon," Alister informed. "We should be leaving in the morning."

Kailee turned to Avion, "Where are we going?"

"The group's going to help me with some things at home. It'll be another long journey, so if you wanted to see your grandparents before we leave, you might want to do that tonight."

She nodded, not sure if she was ready to try and explain everything that had happened the past few months. Perhaps when they returned.

Page 27 - Behind Enemy Lines

The city of Alfatar sat at the foot of the Valis Mountains, a line of dark protrusions that had repelled weather from the Oka Straits and helped protect it's citizens during the wars with their western neighbor, the Astaran Empire. Over twenty years had passed since the treaty had been signed in the capitol city of Namur, not three weeks north west of the kingdom that the group now visited. Kailee eyed the narrow streets of tall homes, whitewashed in the noonday sun with deep brown boards criss-crossing and framing each. Colorful flowers graced windowboxes high above the street reaching for what little daylight they could garner from the walls of this long canyon.

"If anyone needs me to translate for you, just ask," Avion stated as she drove the wagon towards the bustling marketplace and voices yelled out in Kuzin to friends or potential customers.

"Just as long as we can leave here as soon as possible," Rupert spat as he and Thurgen sat across from Kailee in the narrow confines, gripping their respective weapons tightly.

"I take it you don't like to be away from home?" She asked.

"These people have gained a page in the Book of Grudges," Thurgen informed. "But, since we've been dumb enough to come along on this journey, we'll allow that these people survive our visit without incident."

"Unless they start something, of course," Rupert informed as he took another long draught from his tankard.

Kailee studied the rounded, bearded faces and wasn't sure if she actually wanted to know what had happened between them and the locals. They had mentioned several things during the long trip and she knew that their past was full of sore spots.

Turning to the right, the wagon picked its way through the crowd as Avion followed Lericanin and Alister who rode ahead to an inn. Grabbing her backpack, Kailee crouched as she walked to the back door and opened it to allow the fresh air in, cooling her face as she dropped down and left it open for the dwarven pair behind her. She watched as passers by noted the stubby brothers and kept a wide berth as they walked.

"What," Rupert's cantankerous visage bit as he slammed the door behind him and dropped onto the flagstone, glaring at the humans who nervously stared.

"Brother," Thurgen laid a thick arm on the fighter's shoulder. "Calm. We won't be here long."

"What's amiss," Sceva asked as he approached, retrieving his own gear.

"Rupert gets cranky when he's hungry," Thurgen informed, pulling his twin towards the entrance to the inn.

"I think this is going to be an interesting visit," Kailee watched them go into the establishment as Sceva shouldered his backpack.

"I sure hope not."

* * *

Being the seat of the duchy, Alfatar's high walls protected nearly five thousand inhabitants who enjoyed the best that the hub for the nearby mining camps brought to them. As Kailee walked with Avion and Sceva through the town, she noted a group of colorfully dressed street performers entertaining the crowd in a small park. Following Avion, they approached an elderly woman in baggy maroon dress bordered with flowery patterns matching the small round hat on her head. Long black locks cascaded down her back and narrowly covered the large, hoop earrings as she turned to smile at the trio. She listened as Avion spoke to her in their native tongue which seemed to differ from the Kuzin she heard around them.

Avion turned to them, "She says that my clan has already headed to their winter quarters. It'll be easy to find them there but, I was hoping that we could've caught them before they arrived."

"Why," Sceva asked.

"There are many more that live with them and can help in a fight. It's entrance is well hidden, this isn't going to be easy."

"Why is that a concern," Kailee queried.

"I want to kill my father for what he's done and I'd prefer not to have to fight the clan to do it."

"Maybe we could employ the help of the local magistrate or church," Sceva suggested.

Avion shrugged, "Perhaps, but I want him myself."

"I didn't travel all this way to support an assassination," the knight of Elminoir sternly proposed. "If he's a criminal, we need to let the local authority handle it."

Avion nodded, but Kailee knew that the young gypsy had her mind made up.

They eventually met the rest of the group at the tavern for dinner and Kailee sat as they discussed the problem.

"I talked to the local bishop," Lericanin began. "He said the gypsies have been a problem for some time, especially Balor, your father. They do provide entertainment during festivals but, their back alley dealings and other things they're involved in has attracted a lot of attention."

"Are they going to help us," Sceva asked.

Lericanin nodded, then eyed Avion. "They need you to lead them to the winter camp. I'm to meet a captain in the morning at the cathedral and let them know."

All eyes gravitated to the petite, auburn haired girl as she stared at her empty plate, then nodded. "Alright."

The following morning, the group rode to the large, grey stoned cathedral built in appreciation to their patron deity, Arhus. As they entered the stone courtyard, Kailee grew nervous.

"I don't think I should be here," she stated, gripping the reins.

"You'll be fine, don't worry. The bishop here already knows about you and stated that no one is to harm you," he comforted as he dismounted and strode to her side. "I also found out that Kuzin women can become paladins and templar, which I was amazed to see," he eyed Sceva who also dismounted.

"You're kidding."

"No," Alister supported. "We noticed three female knights yesterday after we were done praying."

Kailee finally climbed out of the saddle and followed them into the large, high ceilinged church. Tall, fluted columns rose into the air, towering over the parishioners and clergy and supported the arched roof, colorfully painted with scenes from their holy book. The amazement in the architecture gave her pause as she also noted the interested dwarves who walked with her. Soon, they approached a knight, armored in shiny plate and studded leather. His business-like gaze, short hair and cleanly shaven face demanded respect as she looked into his light green eyes.

"Good morning, brothers," he greeted in accented Astaran as Lericanin and Alister bowed. "Are we to be to this bandit's camp?"

"Yes, sir," Lericanin informed. "How soon should we be ready to leave?"

"Within the hour. My men and I will finish gathering our things and we'll meet you in the courtyard." As they bowed again, he turned and headed back, passing beautifully carved epitaths to fallen knights and noteworthy clergymen that lined the long wall.

Kailee watched as both of their fighters moved towards the front of the sanctuary, passing long rows of laquered benches, to the raised platform carpeted with a vibrant red cloth which sported the traditional shield over golden spears. Kailee followed nervously behind until they kneeled facing the carved mahogany wall that separated the choir from the congregation. Her green eyes scanned upward following carved statues of men and women facing each other from their respective sides. She stood there and debated whether or not to try and petition his attention again in nervous anticipation and doubt until finally her friends rose and turned to leave. Perhaps later.

Page 28 - Incident in Byala

Riding through the narrow pass that joined the secluded mining towns from Alfatar, the group traveled with the captain and his unit of twenty-seven templar and their squires for two days. Kailee made sure that she was always near the group as uncomfortable stares frequented dinner time from Arhus's faithful. Avion had also continued their training in the local dialect and most had learned it fairly well over the past two months from Carbost.
Bare trees rose into the air amidst spruce and pine as the well traveled road cut its way through to the small town of Byala. Home to miners and their families, tradesmen and merchants capitalizing on their needs, the hamlet was fast becoming a barony of note. A long river cut its way and divided it with the baron's keep rising into the air majestically on the west side, commanding the town. Sir Marcus, the second lieutenant that their captain brought with them broke off from the main body with ten of the templar and disappeared into the woods to their left and Kailee followed their scent for some time as they apparently scouted the town.
As they rode towards the keep, men on the walls and over the gate announced their arrival to unseen messengers in the bailey below.

"Who goes there," the gatekeeper challenged.

"Sir Bodin, Knight Captain of Alfatar here on official business in the name of Bishop Aiden," the unit's first lieutenant announced, his authoritative voice bouncing off of the dark grey walls. "Open up at once and inform your lord that we require provisions and lodging."

Kailee watched with the group as the sergeant hesitated for a moment, then turned. Soon, a bar was lifted and the heavy oaken doors opened to reveal another knight standing on the high grassy hill that supported the keep as the long train of horses entered. She turned to Avion and noticed movement beyond the river, near a clump of houses that caught her attention.

Avion noticed the stare and turned to scan the distant homes. "What is it," she asked.

"We're being watched." She motioned with a nod as her eyes stayed with the spy skulking near a barn until entering the gate broke the view.

They stopped and dismounted just within the gate as the paladin spoke with the awaiting knight.

"What business does the bishop have in Byala," he asked. His bald head, shining in the afternoon sun, striking blue eyes and blonde goatee accented the olive complexion.

"We're hunting a band of outlaws," Sir Bodin informed. "Gypsies heading southeast led by one named Balor. Do you know him?"

"I've heard the name," he nodded. "But he and his family don't travel through here. From what I've been told, they take more secluded routes to their home, farther west."

"What is your name," Sir Van Der Veer, the unit's lieutenant asked as he removed his greaves and stuffed them into his belt.

"Sir Leskander, cousin to Sir Nealon, Baron of Byala. I'm the local sheriff."

"Pleasure," the paladin stated. "Is your lord home?"

"Yes," the bald magistrate nodded, turned and led them to the entrance.

"My lord," Lericanin called. "I think we'll stay in the local tavern tonight."

"No, we've been given lodging here and I prefer that you and your friends stay in the protection of the baron's walls. We'll not offend him."

Lericanin reluctantly nodded. They walked towards the town leaving their horses unattended while they did some scouting of their own. As they approached the smaller, one story building that faced a small circle and the bridge beyond, the thundering of hooves from the right announced Sir Marcus and two of the templar who dragged a young man tied to his saddle by a long rope that bound his wrists. She stopped and watched as they led him into the keep and she wondered what his crime had been.

"I wonder what that's about," Alister mused.

"Could be that spy that we noticed earlier," Avion revealed.

"When," Sceva inquired.

"As we rode into the bailey, Kailee noticed someone skulking about that barn," she stated, motioning to the distant thatch rooved building.

Lericanin leaned over her shoulder, "Why didn't you say anything".

"It could have been anything, maybe he was just curious. I can't even tell you if that's him or not."

"How wide is your father's influence in this land," Sceva asked.

"With the gypsies, he's a king. I do know that he has some contacts in a few towns but, he's not some warlord that keeps the king of Ganshoren in his pocket."

Kailee followed the group into the tavern and sat with them as they ate a late lunch and Lericanin scouted the wenches for a potential date for the night.

"Help," someone yelled outside. Most turned to see through the now opened door, a middle aged man frantically calling from the banks of the river. Thurgen and Rupert jumped up and ran out as Sceva and the rest of the group followed.

"What's wrong," Thurgen asked, his short legs carrying him as fast as they could.

"My daughter," he pointed as they noticed the flailing body caught in the current and quickly drifting northward. Kailee followed as they ran to try and intercept the young girl, fear in her eyes as she tried to keep her head above water. As Sceva threw Alister a rope from the opposite bank, they quickly tied it off which allowed Rupert to crawl uncomfortably along the line and reach out his hand. She watched as the young girl reached up and grasped the small, beefy hand, then yanked as the heavy dwarf lost his grip and fell in with her. Confusion stopped her as she then turned to notice the girl's father knock an arrow and fire at Alister.

"To arms," Kailee yelled, unsheathed her sword and charged the bowman. The ambush also caught the rest of the group flat footed as armed men emerged from between buildings and fired from others. Wide-eyed, the archer tried to grab for his own sword as Kailee swung and cut him across the midsection, then rushed to Avion's side as the thief defended herself from three attackers. Arrows whistled from the walls of the keep and caught some of the mercenaries and sent others to seek shelter while staying in the fight. Avion's daggers struck out in all directions while fending off longswords as Kailee joined in and caught one of the flanking fighers unawares. Glinting in the sun, blades parried and struck small victories as their combined efforts finally vanquished the duo. Kailee noticed Lericanin hammer and shield defend him near the tavern door where he had backed and fought off another trio. She sprinted to his aid as he dropped the first with a crushing blow to the right shoulder, then punched a second with the broad shield in the chest.
Suddenly, a tingling sensation in her mind announced a new player in the fight as she turned to see the paladin and a large unit of templar fighting in a large circle, their backs to one another as the focus of the attackers efforts seemed to be on them. Her eyes quickly scanned to notice the dark cloud form into black breeches and vest as the mentalist attacked the Knight Captain from behind, his daggers biting into exposed flesh and dropped the paladin. As the knights to either side of their captain turned to give aid, the assassin disappeared into thin air. She concentrated and tried to follow his scent but was too late as he re-emerged behind Avion and attacked the unsuspecting girl near the river. Kailee turned just in time to see the daggers also plunge into the thief's neck, then exit as quickly as she fell to his feet. Cold black eyes grinned evilly as the assassin winked at her, then disappeared.

Spinning, sword at the ready, she waited for her to be the next victim and swore that he wouldn't get her as easily as fighting continued around the town square.

"Thurgen," she yelled as she ran to Avion's side, stopping short as the scent of fresh blood caught her attention sending a tantalizing chill in her stomach. He quickly ran to the wounded victim as Kailee's nose caught the scent of a familiar cat-like presence in a home to her left. She quickly moved to the nearest window as the clash of steel and the screams of the dying barely muffled the growling visitor who threw one of the enemy bowmen around like a ragdoll. Her eyes caught the silhouette of the large, heavily muscled beast as clawed hands gripped the limp body and threw it crashing into furniture out of sight. The mind in this beast seemed familiar and she realized that Sceva had an alter ego that she never knew about. She let him have his fun and moved around the house as the templar's renewed fervor and battlecries won the day, then quickly tended to their own wounded and their fallen captain.
Lericanin emerged from the great oak that centered the circle drive as he eyed the dwarven cleric working on Avion.

"What happened to her," he asked as they both headed that way.

"She was attacked by an assassin with mentalist powers," she informed, turning to the left along the river bank to see the a soaked Rupert squish up to them with Alister in tow.

"Do you believe that," his disgusted tone revealed his embarrassment. "I should've let her drown."

"No one knew what they were up to until it was too late," Lericanin tried to comfort the fighter's pride. "It's over now." He turned his attention to Thurgen who quickly jumped up and started to the paladin.

"Keep an eye on her for me. We'll need to get her someplace warm to rest for a while." His panting sounded in time with his beating heart as Kailee watched him run to his next patient.

Eventually, everyone rested in the bailey and great hall or in private room as the sun fell below the neighboring peak.
As Kailee sat with Alister and Lericanin against the cool wall near the long table, Sir Marcus emerged and walked to his men. "Sir Bodin will survive, thanks to the dwarven cleric. I've also learned that our assailants were men of Balor's camp and I believe the outlaw king himself was the one that struck the blows on our captain. Arhus has other plans however and we will, with our Great Father's help, win the day." He raised his tankard and was followed by the templar who all saluted their leader and their deity.

Page 29 - Lake T'Asha

After four days of rest, the group was rejoined by Avion as well as the others who had been magically healed by Thurgen. Kailee was glad to be leaving this town as the baron seemed to be a self centered, egotistical type of leader that had cowered behind his walls during the fighting while brave knights of Arhus fought to save Byala. She followed Sceva and the others down the stairwell to the front door as morning light spilled through the narrow windows. Alister had their horses waiting as squires ran about readying their charge's steads also. Bidding farewell to their host, the large unit continued north as Avion rode with the forward scouts through the Valis Mountains and the elusive camp.

Within seven days, they reached the outer defenses of the compound hidden within a small, rounded canyon that Avion informed them would be crawling with guards. Kailee's nose told them otherwise. The templar dismounted and formed up, line abreast and quietly moved to the entrance, shields at the ready as they peered upwards into the boughs and sloping ground that rose to either side. Soon, a forward scout emerged from the bordering trees, motioned with his left hand side to side, then waved them in. Kailee followed the group as they walked with the paladin and passed through the opened doors, well camoflauged by the surrounding trees and bushes to see the empty enclave. Homes built of stone and thatch stood quietly while they fanned out. In pairs, the templar investigated each building as they worked their way to the center of the community to find a horse that perked up. Saddled, he watched and waited and Kailee noted his owner who rummaged through the remaining goods that spoiled in baskets. He stepped out and smiled as he walked to his horse, turned and dropped the apple from a dirty hand as his smile faded.

"I was just looking around. I didn't take anything," he pleaded as the group and Sir Bodin stopped.

"Where are the inhabitants of this community," the paladin asked.

"Been gone for some time now, rumor has it."

"And how would you know this?"

"I'm a scout for the king's army, Abik's the name." His dishevelled look and dirty countenance told of someone who survived in the wild. "I've kept the gypsies in these hills under surveillance for years, kept me in a warm bath at least once a month. Hot meals are a nice bonus too," he smiled, yellowed teeth gleaming.

"Since your extensive knowledge of these mountains has kept you in your lord's favor, where else would Balor encamp?"

Hazel-green eyes glanced to the arriving templar as they finished their searches and Kailee could tell that this ranger was becoming nervous. "I think they may have moved to Lake T'Asha," he informed quietly, eyes watching as the circle closed around him.

"And you know the penalty for lying to a Knight Captain of Arhus, don't you," Sir Marcus asked.

Abik nodded, "I wouldn't be that foolish. And I have no love for Balor or his family."

"If this report turns to fruition, I'll be in your debt," Sir Bodin informed.

Bowing, the ranger grinned again, happy that he was going to be able to leave this area unmolested as Kailee read his surface thoughts.

The unit marched back out to their awaiting horses being held by their patient squires and mounted for the continuing search. Another four days found rain soaked paths treacherous as they passed over narrow, rocky gaps and descended into the lush river valley that passed through the lake they sought. Sir Bodin and his lieutenants sat atop their horses side by side as the rest of the unit broke for lunch.

"Marcus, take fourteen men and scout the northern banks of this lake, we'll take the rest and head south and meet you on the far side. If contact is made, hold your positions and send one rider to inform us and we'll attack from the other flank."

"Yes, milord," the obedient reply as the eager lieutenant rode up and picked his men for the reconaissance mission.

Once they had departed, the main group rode down the rocky slope, dotted with trees at the higher elevations that thickened as they entered the valley. Kailee enjoyed the peace of the forest around them and longed for the time when they would be returning home and be out of the presence of these men. An armored fist rose into the air and the unit stopped. She noticed that their scout had apparently found something up ahead and the whole group dismounted and formed up in a wedge with Lericanin and the group holding the right wing. Kailee, Thurgen and Avion made up the second rank behind the fighters as they quietly moved forward through the trees to finally catch sight of the grassy embankment that butted against a sheer wall of granite. As they waited for the second unit to arrive from the opposite side, Kailee noticed the odd flowers that graced the man made hill that they were about to assault. An odd scent drifted on the wind that she had never encountered before and she looked to Avion.

"What are those red flowers there?"

Avion peered between Sceva and Alister and squinted. "Bloodlums. We should avoid those if at all possible."

"I thought I recognized those," Sceva confirmed. "Great. If we have any way to fire those plants, we should do that."

"Why," Lericanin asked.

"They fire needle-like spikes that don't allow the wound to heal. The blood that hits the ground feeds them. It's like having additional archers on those walls along with the defenders."

Lericanin turned to the paladin as he watched for the signal from Sir Marcus. "My lord. We should fire the hill and kill those flowers that line it."

Sir Bodin trained his eyes on the hill as some of the templar chuckled to themselves. "Good idea," he turned to the squires. "Fire those slopes there, the smoke will also shield our approach."

Quickly, the younger acolytes readied their longbows and lit the oiled cloth wrapped around the heads, drew and fired. Coursing through the air, between the tall trees, the lines of orange light hit the green hill and slowly began to burn. Suddenly, return fire from the defenders rained projectiles on their shields and the surrounding ground.

"Forward!" Sir Bodin commanded as the wedge moved as one towards the earthen defenses.

Kailee hated this part, sword in hand and no targets that she could get to. Crouched, she followed closely behind Alister as they approached the embankment, now engulfed in fire that rose high into the air and consumed everything in it's path, including the trees above them. Kailee was beginning to wonder if this was such a good idea after all as arrows blindly sped through the black smoke and one hit Alister in the side of the head, glancing off of his right ear and removing a sizeable chunk.

"Close ranks," the command rang out amidst cursing and the raging inferno around them. Shields rose and protected the heads and shoulders of the unit as they entered the dark gateway cut into the side of the hill and protected some from the blaze. Using magic, they blew the doors open and charged into the narrow entrance guarded by another, more shallow embankment protecting archers who fired into the shields of the oncoming wave of death. Kailee quickly looked upwards to find that no one manned the parapets above them which would have been smart and probably have taken out some. A long building whose side protected their right flank, the templar assaulted the archers and formed up as a wave of swordsmen attacked from the central courtyard.
Kailee followed Thurgen and Rupert as they ran to the opposite wing and charged over the embankment, hammer and axe raised for the killer blows. She charged as Thurgen carried one archer to the ground and pummeled him with a strike to the chest as Rupert fought another with a bit more skill. Battle raged as the opposing gateway opened to reveal the second unit of templar who charged into the fray. She neared the dwarven assault in time to see Thurgen caught by a shot to the head and dropped. Rupert screamed and swung his axe, nearly cutting his brother's assailant in two, then ran to his twin and dragged him over the embankment as Kailee helped get the cleric to safety.

"Sir Bodin," Rupert yelled, gaining the captain's attention. "Get over here!"

As the paladin ran to Thurgen's aid, Kailee moved around the left wing and fought her way up to the front as the wedge quickly cut it's way through the defenders, sending some into flight towards a door on the far side of the compound and into the rock face. She sprinted, overtaking them easily and passed the fleeing duo and stood in front of the door that they raced to. Stopping, they stood momentarily, weapons raised as Alister charged and Lericanin threw his hammer, catching one in the back. As he dropped, the second turned to face the large farmer and Kailee leaned forward and stabbed him. Wrenching the bastardsword back out, she straightened as Lericanin approached and picked up his hammer.

"Nice shot," Alister congratulated the larger veteran.

"Thanks. I actually didn't think that would work," he smiled, then approached the door that the gypsies had tried to get to. The trio quickly entered, shields and weapons at the ready to find a meeting room furnished with large, ornately decorated pillows around a stone hearth. Cooked meat and potatoes filled long, clay trays that they moved to and tasted.

"Any sign of Balor," Lericanin asked, glancing to Kailee.

"No one else is here but us. Maybe he escaped again," she informed as Avion entered and scanned the dining area.

"Well," Alister began. "His army is quickly shrinking." The trio ate as the other long buildings were searched and cleared. No sign of the outlaw king was found.

Page 30 - A Daughter's Revenge

They returned to Byala within two weeks after scouring the valley and surrounding mountains to find nothing. Endless days of riding began to take it's toll on the group and their allies and the rest would do them good. Doors creaked open to allow the armed contingent to enter and they were greeted by a large group of men, women and children of all ages clumped together within the bailey. Discussions ceased as they reined in their horses and Sir Bodin dismounted as he eyed the guarded mob.

"What goes on here," the captain asked one of the guards.

"Sir Nealon captured these gypsies as they tried to run for the mountains and hide," the proud soldier informed.

"And where is your lord now?"

"Inside."

Kailee dismounted with the group and noted Avion's despair as her eyes caught sight of someone familiar. "What is it," she asked.

"That's my brother, Peter." Avion approached the captives and was quickly intercepted by the guards.

"Hold there, young lady. Do you know any of them?"

Avion's eyes scanned the group and soon turned and headed inside the keep. Kailee followed as her friend approached Sir Van Der Veer. "Sir, what is to happen to them?"

"I'm not sure yet. Captain Bodin and the baron are discussing that right now. Why?"

"I know some of them. They're not criminals, only my father and my brother Alex deserve death."

"Like I said, I don't know all the details yet. Just be patient."

That night, Kailee watched as Avion was given permission to talk to her mother, sisters and brother. She admired their bond and longed to see Tia again and hoped that she was alright. It still bothered her that she didn't search more to find her friend which had probably been spirited away magically. She quickly pushed out the fears of who the culprit might be, knowing the deal that was made to give Tia life again in the Dender Swamp.

As the roosters announced the following morning, Kailee listened to the breeze that brushed the pine and the gentle lapping of waves in the nearby river from her resting place on the floor of the Great Hall. She turned her head to notice Avion staring at the ceiling.

"Good morning," Kailee greeted.

"Not really."

"Why?"

"They're going to execute Peter today," Avion informed as tears welled up.

"What's he done?"

"They said that he was a ringleader for crimes that had happened near Shumen." Sighing, she wiped her cheeks. "This is all been formed of lies and deceit by this lazy baron who just needs to look good while Sir Bodin is here. Gain favor before he's denied of his lavish home."

Kailee moved over and wrapped her arms around her friend and tried to comfort her. "I guess there's nothing we can do about this," she presented as more of a question.

"Peter told me not to worry about it. That he was just glad to see me again," she sniffed. "I can't believe this is happening."

She lay her head on Avion's shoulder until the others began waking up as the smells of bacon and fresh bread wafted from the hearth. After most of the group ate, all were assembled out in the bailey to witness the trial. The local cleric stepped forward, parchment in hand and read the charges.

"This day, Kabir the twenty-ninth of the year nine-sixty-three, these criminals are hereby charged with high treason against his Majesty, King von Clauss of Ganshoren along with murder, theft and kidnapping within his borders and are sentenced to death. May the gods have mercy on your souls."

Kailee could feel the anguish in Avion's heart as she watched her brother proudly step forward, kneel and lay over the wooden block as the executioner raised the axe. She turned away as Kailee wrapped her arms around her and drew her close as the axe fell, killing the young leader and soon his two accomplices.

* * *

Quietly, they returned to the cathedral in Alfatar and accepted lodging in the cloistered dormitories at the rear of the compound. Avion had not said two words in as many days as they rode back but, was happy that the rest of her family had been allowed to leave peacefully. She helped Avion get settled into the room they would share.

"Soon, we'll be headed back to Carbost. Will you be coming with us?" Kailee asked as she hung her backpack on a post at the foot of the bed.

"Of course. I have nothing here now. Peter and I were very close. I just wish my father would show himself and this would be done with."

Kailee sympathized as she watched the young gypsy walk back out into the gardens that fronted the arched walkway. She headed to the baths to notice other women bathing and resting on long, padded couches as servants combed their hair. All eyes watched her walk in and undress. She uncomfortably stepped down into the warm water and soon looked up at a female about her age. Wet, sandy blonde hair framed the brown eyes that studied her.

"Where are you from," she asked.

"Carbost, far to the west. You?"

"I was born in Godech, but my home is wherever Arhus sends me. Ultimately, that's Ghevond when he's deemed that I've done enough for him."

Kailee nodded. She had heard all this from Lericanin and Alister before and ignored the stares as she lathered and enjoyed the bath.

"I have to ask," her neighbor interrupted again. "How can you walk in the daylight?"

Green eyes turned to the knight. "Just like you do."

"But, you're not totally human. I've never met one such as yourself before."

Kailee smiled, remembering a quote from Sceva. "We're all unique in our own way."

She soon dried off and evaded the room full of quizzical gazes and discussions as she headed back along the gallery. A shiver ran up her spine and stopped her in her tracks. Quickly, she scanned the gardens for the intrusion to find Avion locked in battle with someone. She sprinted along the flagstone walkway that cut between flowers and small trees to see the assassin who had nearly killed Avion in Byala. Lericanin and Alister ran up from the cathedral and she noticed Lericanin's arm cross the farmer's path, stopping him as they watched in anticipation of the outcome. Avion's energy, fueled by loss and anger sped her movements as she attacked, parried and dodged the veteran fighter. Kailee felt every strike, slash and deep cut that hit her friend who fought on like a woman possessed. Dancing and maneuvering around the small, round clearing, they attacked one another until time caught up with the older man that the lithe thief capitalized on. As she blocked a downward stroke, she cut upwards inside his defenses and jabbed him in the throat, burying it to the hilt. Shuddering, he stiffened and stared upwards in disbelief as she drew her dagger out and backed to watch him fall to the ground. Balor, King of the Gypsies was dead.

Avion backed as Kailee ran to her and plopped onto the marble bench in shock. Blood flowed freely from various wounds, but Kailee focused more on helping her friend as she turned to the two fighters who moved to the downed mentalist.

"Get Thurgen, hurry."

"Alright," Alister stated, turned and ran back into the church. Soon, Avion was back under the care of the dwarf who had quickly earned his keep with the group as well as his brother who's axe had claimed many enemies.

Page 31 - Heading Home

Two weeks after leaving Ruse, the outermost town on the northwestern border of the kingdom, the group headed along the lonely stretch of forested road that would ultimately take them to Portsmouth, the busy hub for merchant ships who had braved the pirate infested Oka Straits. Camp was set up with the wagon being the centerpiece as Alister tended to the horses and Kailee headed into the forest for her weekly hunt.

"I'll be back soon," she informed.

"I'd rather you didn't go alone," Lericanin eyed her seriously as he prepared to carve another haft.

"No one here can keep up with me and you'd end up spooking the deer. I travel faster on my own."

He nodded and continued gathering his tools as she turned and headed out, allowing her senses to guide her to the small herd not far away. As her quiet movements brought her in range, she felt the familiar hunger allow her darker side to take over. Claws extended as fangs grew and her body went invisible as she stalked her prey who innocently drank from the stream that they stood near. The male perked up as she neared and prepared for the strike, then flinched as Kailee leaped onto one of the females, sending the rest into flight through the forest. Ecstasy filled her body as she knocked the deer to the ground and plunged her fangs into it's neck while holding it down with her arms, life that gave life to another.
After draining it, she hefted it onto her shoulder and headed back to camp. Soon, a scent caught her attention that made her long for the forest that she had grown up in, wolves were in the area and as she tracked the scent, nervous adrenaline drove her to find the one that had died. Within moments, she found the female and the young one that lingered nearby, hungry and alone. She studied the body of his mother and noted that she had been slashed with claws, bitten and had died soon after. Sorrow filled her heart as she knelt and set the deer down. Her eyes turned to the young male and she smiled.

"You and I can help each other, one orphan to another." She reached out her right hand and waited for him to trust her. Soon, he neared and smelled her hand, then licked it as he stepped up and relaxed. She picked him up gently, then retrieved the deer and headed back to camp. She walked to Lericanin as he looked up. "Here you go," she dropped the carcase at his feet as she cradled the wolf to herself.

"Where'd you find him," he asked as he stood.

"His mother was killed so, I figured we'd take care of him."

Lericanin pet the mottled grey and white furball as he panted. She kneeled and tore a portion of their night's dinner off of the deer and set her adopted son on the ground and let him eat. Thurgen and Rupert emerged as Lericanin strung up the deer and began to clean it.

"What are you going to do with him?"

"Take care of him."

Smiles creased their faces as they both eyed the pup as he tore at the red meat. "What should we name him? It is a male, right?" Rupert asked.

"Yes. I don't know," she shrugged. "Maybe we'll ask the rest of the group during dinner."

"He's cute," Thurgen commented, admiring their new pet.

"You know we're going to have to toughen him up if he's going to survive with us," Rupert informed.

Kailee nodded.

Soon, Alister hurried into the camp and ran to the wagon, grabbing a coil of rope. "One of the horses found a hole. I could use some help."

They all followed as Kailee picked up the wolf and placed him inside the wagon for safe keeping, then ran to follow Alister and the trapped horse. As they arrived, she noticed the stairway that it had found but was unable to leap high enough to free itself from. Alister dropped in with it and tied the rope around the rump as the others tried to pull the beast free. It leaped and grabbed onto the rim and frantically climbed out. Alister turned and looked further into the dark tunnel that descended as Lericanin recoiled the rope and Kailee, Avion and the dwarves peered down.

"That's manmade," Rupert informed.

"We need some torches," Alister looked up to them as Kailee straightened.

"I'll go," she grabbed the rope and ran back to the camp, dropped it onto the ground near the rear wheels of the wagon, retrieved four torches and ran back. She joined the others as they all dropped in and began exploring the tunnel. Thurgen concentrated on the torches that suddenly lit, brightening their dark surroundings to reveal a long hallway with three openings, one to the left and two on the right. Weapons drawn, they crept two abreast to the left opening which Kailee could smell the residue of horses who had been stabled there some time ago.

"Someone sure made a mess," Lericanin informed from inside.

"What have you found," Sceva inquired.

"Looks like stalls for horses but, someone or something made a feast of the one's stabled here."

Tensions rose as they kept sharper eyes to the remaining openings. Kailee smelled the air and found only musty odors, dust, and refuse. Water commanded the closer right doorway, stagnant and full of thick algae. But something else called to her from deep inside that room that was hard to resist. As they continued on, Alister glanced into the swamp filled cave, torchlight glimmered off of the still pool that seemed to go on for some distance separated by several large columns of rock, smoothed by time as if the whole cave and rooms had been flooded in the past.

"Skip that one," Alister stated flatly.

"How deep is it," Lericanin asked as they watched the fighter lower his sword blade into the water, disturbing its peace until reaching the pommel.

"A couple feet."

"I don't think Thurgen and Rupert want to explore that one," Avion reminded of their shorter companions.

"I'm not afraid, missy." Rupert corrected sternly, his bass voice echoing throughout the small complex.

"I didn't say you were, that's how deep it is at this edge, how deep is it out there?" She pointed into the darkness. "You both know that you sink like rocks."

Both dwarves glared at the thief, but made no argument.

"Come on," Lericanin led into the next room where the group found broken, dust covered boxes, four beds, tables and chairs along with candle holders of silver which they claimed. As Kailee watched Avion search the room more thoroughly, the urge to go back to the water filled cavern kept eating at her. As she fought the desire, Avion found a small hidden door behind a far bunk.

"I found something," she announced, and began studying the surrounding wall. Soon, she opened the hatch to reveal a dark blue, silk wrapped glass ball that sat on a stand of black metal. She sat up and studied the swirling cloud that filled the ball in wonder.

"We should put that away for now until we can figure out what it is," Sceva instructed.

Avion nodded, then put it into her backpack and stood as the group regrouped near the door where Kailee waited. "Are we going to explore the other one now," she asked in anticipation.

"I don't think we should," Thurgen suggested. "There's something in that room that just doesn't feel right."

"If it's evil, then it should be destroyed before someone else finds it," Lericanin's energy influenced the rest as they headed to the dark swamp. Kailee became excited with each step through the murk until the crashing of waves introduced the inhabitants who dragged Rupert under the water and attacked the other fighters. Kailee and Thurgen struck at the water elemental as it tried to drown the axe wielding dwarf who fought to surface until they freed him from its embrace.

Gasping for breath, he gripped his axe, "Come on back, I'll split your skull! Coward!" His voice boomed in the cavern now quiet as the other water elementals were also vanquished fairly quickly.

"I wonder what drew them here," Alister mused as they continued exploring.

"No telling," Sceva added.

"There's something in that rock there," Thurgen informed as they neared a large column of grey stone that flared out into the ceiling. They all neared as Avion approached and studied the grooved face for an opening until finding a seam in the stone.

"I found evidence of a door, but I can't open it."

"I have an idea." Kailee stepped forward, concentrated and her body became a wispy cloud that glided through the cracks. Once inside, she found the object of her attraction. The dagger's long, white blade appeared to be made of bone, the black handle wrapped in red and gold to the small gold crossguard that ended in demonic faces. She grabbed it and felt the energy that powered the artifact and hid it close to her. Turning, she unlatched the lock and drifted back out into the open air. Avion opened the heavy, thick door to reveal the polished, black object that appeared like horns joined by a smooth frame.

"What is that," Lericanin asked.

"No idea." Avion studied it as Thurgen waded up.

"That is the focus of the evil energy, destroy it."

"How do we know what the effects will be once that thing is hit," Sceva proposed.

"You don't feel the evil emanating from it?"

Sceva stared at it for a moment, "Yes."

"I'll do it," Alister volunteered.

"That's it then," Lericanin decided. "Everyone back to the entrance."

Kailee moved through the thick water as she clutched the dagger to herself, trying to keep her prize secret as they all climbed out of the murk and turned to see the bright flash and feel the burst of energy that surged through the cavern and knocked all of them to the floor in a heap. As the others raced to Alister, Kailee tucked the knife into her belt and waited as they carried the fighter out and back to the campsite. She climbed into the wagon as the contained wolf perked up from the bench seat and sat next to him. Retrieving her backpack, she quickly wrapped the dagger in a spare shirt and buried it into the bottom of the leather sack, tied it closed and placed it underneath the seat. The group had always shared in the spoils that they had found and Kailee never asked for anything, but this treasure was hers.
Later that night, as they slept, Kailee awoke to movement as Avion crept towards the treeline at the edge of the camp. She turned over, still holding the pup and watched through the arrowslit in the port wall to see the young gypsy drift through the forest, picked out by moonlight and then stop. She watched as Avion cradled something in her hands and spoke to it, reared back and threw it against the tree nearby. A wave of energy coursed through Kailee, making her jump and transferring the shock to the wolf who yelped. After composing herself, she looked again as something grew to immense size crushing the trees around it and become nearly the size of a merchant ship. It stopped growing for a moment, then extended its enormous wings and flew off into the night.

Kailee stared in disbelief as Thurgen and Sceva awoke, then headed outside. She also unwrapped the blanket, set her pet on the pillow and went to find Avion sitting against the tree and staring into the sky.

"Was that what I think it was," Kailee asked as the others approached. Avion remained quiet.

"What happened to the trees," Alister wondered aloud. "This area looks like a giant laid down and rolled around."

"Avion crushed the glass ball that we found and released a dragon," Kailee informed.

"What," Alister quickly sobered as his eyes went immediately to the night sky.

"She begged me to free her," Avion finally revealed. "So I did."

"Well then, let's go get it." Rupert announced. "I've never killed a dragon before," he and Thurgen excitedly headed back to camp.

"You're not going to kill one of the most sacred creatures of my Lady's forest. Are you mad?" Sceva questioned in disbelief. "Besides, there's no way you're going to be able to keep up with it."

"Fine," Rupert countered. "You stay here and we'll go collect a souvenir."

Sceva turned to the others. "These two are unbelievable."

"Avion," Lericanin helped up the startled thief. "Why do you do things like this without saying anything to anyone else? Don't you realize that it could've been something that may have killed you or even us?"

"There was no hesitation when we freed Kailee."

Lericanin stepped back. "Totally different set of circumstances. She's not a dragon."

"She needed my help, I helped. Nothing we can do about it now." They watched as she headed back to the wagon and reclaimed her bed underneath their wooden home. Kailee wondered what her comment insinuated as they all eventually returned to sleep.

Page 32 - Discovery

Across the Davosian Isthmus and the group finally reached the border town of Eaglesham. Well fortified, the trade hub that secured the central eastern gate to the Kingdom of Davos had repelled many attacks during the wars that ravaged the area during the building of the kingdom. As they entered the center of the town, Kailee noticed immediately the similar architecture left here by the original Kuzin builders. Trade between the neighbors passed through these gates and gave the local baron first choice of goods from the distant Kuzomen Empire to their east.

"Good to be back in clean air," Rupert mentioned as Avion reined the horses to the right and stopped. Kailee waited for a retort from their driver, but there was none as she claimed her gear and climbed off of the bench seat. She followed out into the cooler air and noticed the thick, heavy clouds that drifted overhead. Winter was setting in and they would soon have to deal with roads choked with snow.

Sceva rode up and dismounted, "Avion, how about a drink?"

"Sure, you buying," she shot him a charming grin.

"I can do that."

"What about me," Rupert asked as he climbed out and dropped off of the low step.

"They may only have the watered down stuff but, you're welcome to join us."

"I meant dinner, I brought my own ale. You can drink that soft, human stuff. No offense."

Sceva chuckled as they walked into the tavern. "None taken. At least I can still walk after I drink our stuff."

Kailee eyed the local customers that sat in groups and stood near the long bar at the far side of the room whose eyes watched the group of well armed and armored individuals walk in and obtain lodging for the night. She took her things up to the room, Spike tucked under one arm. The name was the only one proposed by Rupert and no one else seemed to argue, so it stuck to the wolf that had made itself at home with them.

"How are you doing," she asked as Avion set her backpack on the opposing bed.

Blue eyes turned to her, "Fine," she nodded. "How are you?"

"Good." She had noticed a bit of a darker change in her thoughts over the past few weeks however.

"We're going to have to keep a close eye on Spike in towns, I'd hate for anything to happen to him."

"Like what?"

"There are many who would love to have a wolf as a pet. There are also large dogs that roam the alleys and such, we'll have to keep him in sight."

"I'll worry about him, don't concern yourself with that. Anyone tries to hurt him, they're going to have to go through me." Kailee could feel the anger well up from deep within.

Avion took a moment of pause. "Okay. You want to join us downstairs?"

"In a moment," she returned.

Her roomate nodded, then exited as Kailee set her pet on the bed and allowed him to run around. She secured the door with a wooden bar and went back to the backpack where she dug out the dagger. Dark energy seeped from the weapon as she held it in her hands, carressing it lovingly for some time until Spike nudged her thigh. She looked down to him and the bright, ice blue eyes gleamed and softened her immediately. Sighing, she regained her composure and wrapped the artifact back up and returned it to her backpack. Hands reached for the pup and playfully wrestled with him as the innocence of her mate nearly brought tears to her eyes. What was happening to her?

* * *

As she lay on the bed petting the wolf, the sounds of arguing downstairs echoed up to her. She immediately sat up and headed to the door. Pulling the bar to the left, she pulled the greying door open and closed it behind her, keeping Spike inside as she quickly headed down the stairs to notice Sceva and Avion fighting a mob. She unsheathed her sword and quickly moved down to assist. Suddenly, a roar resounded through the room gaining everyone's attention. The spot where Sceva had stood now was claimed by the largest were-creature that she had ever seen. Tan fur marked by long, black stripes, huge claws and long teeth began claiming victims as men screamed and ran for the door, trying to escape. She froze as it threw one assailant to his left, sending the fighter crashing into a table and onto the wooden floor. It turned and briefly eyed Avion, who stood frozen. Just then, another of the fighters turned and tried to flee, catching the weretiger's attention. It chased him to the window and raked his prey across the back, then leaped out through the glass and disappeared as Alister and Lericanin tried to fight their way inside.

She turned to see Avion staring wide-eyed at the wooden frame, daggers in hand and went to her. Groans from the wounded filled the interior as she also noticed Sceva's shredded clothing on the floor.

"Avion, you alright?"

"Where did that thing come from?" she asked, shock in her eyes as the two fighters finally made their way to them.

"What was it," Lericanin asked. "All we saw was fur and teeth."

Kailee eyed them, "We need to gather the group and our things and go after him. We can talk on the way."

They both eyed her for a moment as Lericanin headed upstairs. "Alister, get the horses and wagon ready, I'll grab your things and be right out to help."

"Alright."

After quickly reclaiming their gear and friends, they sped out through the western gate as Kailee used her nose to guide their search for their friend. She directed them into the woods as a troop of mounted riders approached quickly and stopped them. Their armor and heraldry told of the baron's troops: a blue field over white separated by a jagged line.

"You should return to the security of the town," the sergeant warned. "There's a beast about these parts, it's not safe."

"Actually, sir," Lericanin pointed to the east. "We noticed tracks of something large heading that way," he lied.

"Thank you for your assistance, friend. But, I would heed my advice until this beast is killed."

"We appreciate your concern."

Motioning, the sergeant led the small cavalry east and soon disappeared into the distant treeline.

"Kailee, which way did it go," Lericanin asked.

"It, is Sceva."

Everyone stared at her blankly.

"What?" Alister queried in surprise and disbelief.

"You're telling me that thing that nearly destroyed that tavern was the knight of Elminoir that we've been traveling with all this time," Avion queried.

"Yes, and he's in need of our support right now. We need to hurry and find him before someone else does."

Nodding, Alister and Lericanin led their group deeper into the forest as Avion negotiated the light woods until they found the nearly naked body lying within a rocky stream. Quickly dismounting, they ran to their friend as Thurgen wrapped a blanket around the wet and cold body.

"Let's get him into the wagon, quickly," Thurgen directed as they picked him up and carried Sceva inside and laid him onto the port side bench.

"We'll keep an eye on him, let's go." Both dwarves sat opposite the sleeping knight as the others quickly reclaimed their seats and saddles and began to ride west. As they neared the southern road that joined Eaglesham with Harnad, a patrol motioned for them to stop. Kailee noticed the sergeant was impressed by Avion's driving through the forest with the wooden beast that maneuvered to the left as the pair of lone riders stopped.

"What's amiss, traveler," the veteran soldier asked.

"We heard a beast back that way," Lericanin pointed back the way they had come from. "Another patrol was in the area and I fear for their safety."

The sergeant nodded, "Thanks, friend". He motioned for half of the troops to follow him and they rode down the swath that the wagon had cut as the group resumed their exodus to a secluded spot near a large lake.

Soon after they made camp, Sceva emerged from the wagon, greying black hair pulled back as he looked around in confusion. "Where are we?"

"Southwest of Eaglesham," Thurgen informed. "How are you feeling?"

"Fine. I must've blacked out for a while, what happened?"

Kailee eyed him, "This isn't the first time, is it?"

He glanced to her and she knew the answer before he uttered it. "No, actually. I remember two other occasions when I lost track of time during fights. I just thought it was attributed to adrenaline and the chaos of battle." His green eyes searched theirs for answers.

"You're a were-creature. I don't know of anything immediately that can cure it, but I have heard of certain spells." Thurgen approached him and placed a sympathetic hand on Sceva's arm.

Kailee could feel his shock and remembered feeling the same way when Knight Commander Elias had informed her of being a vampire. "You're among friends, Sceva. If they accept a freak like me, you've got no problems either."

"I've never seen you as a freak," his serious gaze cemented his opinion. "But, I'm afraid of what this curse could do to any one of you." He looked at Avion, "Are you alright?"

"Yes," she nodded. "There were a few casualties in town though, not that they didn't deserve it."

Sceva's green eyes sank, then turned to Lericanin. "As a representative of the god of justice, I surrender myself to you."

Lericanin was taken aback. "If I take you back there, they'll execute you. You know how blind most people get, especially clerics and priests. You're not going to anyone's dungeon if I have to say anything about it."

"I agree," Alister stepped up. "So, I guess you'll just have to remain here under our protection for now."

Sceva sighed. "I'll petition the Lady and try to gain her guidance in this matter. Thanks."

Lericanin's eyes glistened. "You're my brother and I'd die for you. This is the only family I have, right here," his eyes scanned the small group around the campfire.

Rupert smiled, "You're not the prettiest in the family, just as long as we get that straight."

The group chuckled, lightening the mood.

Page 33 - Blind Ambition's Price

Within ten days, the group arrived to the untouched city of Velence and home to the count that governed the eastern border of the kingdom. Reports of the war to the south and the dispossessed that clogged the city was disheartening as the wagon slowly picked its way through the crowd.

"I have a feeling that we're going to be staying in the wagon for this visit," Avion informed over her shoulder.

"At least you can all get a hot meal, hopefully," Kailee watched through the arrowslit to her left as they passed tent cities in side streets and within the yards of two cathedrals that they passed. As they arrived in the central square, Avion reined in the horses and stopped the wagon.

"We're going to have to keep someone with the wagon at all times," Rupert suggested.

Avion turned around and looked through the narrow opening behind her to eye him directly. "That won't be a problem," she stated and petted Spike for a moment.

Kailee opened the rear door to see the line of women and children with buckets in their hands as they waited to collect water at the wells and fountain. "Wouldn't they have more room and food outside in the forest?"

"Depends on how close the enemy is," Thurgen mentioned.

"Hopefully not too far, I'm bored," Rupert stated as he rearranged his gear in the crowded interior. "This has been a long trip."

Thurgen turned to him, "You know, if it wasn't for complaining, you probably wouldn't have anything to say, would you?"

Kailee quickly grabbed Spike and jumped out through the rear door as the brothers began fighting and wrestling around on everyone's backpacks and gear. Hers was underneath the seat, so she didn't worry about them stabbing themselves. She turned as Lericanin and Alister tied off their horses and leaned over to see the comical match of arguing and punches.

"Take that outside," Lericanin yelled as he reached in and pulled them out onto the flagstone as Kailee dodged. "You two are like a bunch of kids, I swear."

"At least they're not using their weapons," Sceva observed as he rode up. "You'd never know they were brothers." He turned to the trio standing there as Avion walked around to the rear. "I'm going to stay at the church of Elminoir tonight. If you need me, just let me know."

"Alright." Lericanin's eyes followed the knight as he rode into the crowd that watched as the dwarves made a spectacle of themselves and finally finished, arguing over who got the best of who. He then looked at Kailee who held onto the excited furball in her arms. "We need to talk."

"Okay."

He led her into the wagon and shut the door as she sat down again on her usual bench and watched him sit opposite for a moment and smile at Spike. "My champion has told me that you've come in contact with something that's corrupting you. I've noticed it also at times, so has everyone else. Want to tell me what's going on?"

Kailee studied him for a moment and began to feel the defensive mode kick in as she wondered how much the champion had actually revealed. "We've been through a lot lately. I still miss Tia, the war that rages around us, Avion almost dying and watching her endure the execution of her own brother. That would be enough, I think, to carry around."

He nodded. "Where's the knife?"

She felt her blood begin to warm. "What knife?"

Lericanin sighed. "Kailee, don't do this. We've been friends now for almost a year, this isn't you. Can't you see what's happening?"

"It's no more evil than any of us. All of you have your gifts and booty that we've found in our travels, this one is mine."

"If it's hurting you, then you know I can't allow someone I care for to be taken away like this. You've come so far, don't allow him to take you back." He eyed the packs underneath the seat below her. "It's in your backpack?"

"You touch it and you'll make me do something I'll regret," she warned as she leaned forward.

He backed and eyed her, sadness in his eyes. "Alright, for now. But, you know if you ever need to talk, I'm always available." They shared an uncomfortable moment of quiet and he moved and exited the wagon as she relaxed, eyes glaring.

* * *

That night, she lay within her blanket, Spike to her side and nestled within her right arm as a cool breeze softly brushed her hair. She knew that her outlook had changed some after gaining the artifact and in he back of her mind, she thought she could hear a low laughter. He wasn't going to win again, she thought and drifted off to sleep.

A dark form moved slowly up to where she was sleeping and Kailee's mind warned her, but she didn't move. They crouched next to her and she could hear faint movement and they rose and headed out through the rear door. Quietly closing the door behind them, Kailee's defenses relaxed until she felt the growing pain of separation to something dear. Her eyes opened and she could still feel Spike sleeping beside her. Scanning the room, her senses filtered the loud snoring, clopping of horses walking by, the heartbeats of her friends and Avion running down the street towards the church of Arhus.
She jumped up, pushed the rear door open and sprinted after the thief. They had tricked her and stolen her gift, the dagger would be out of reach once it was in the hands of the priest. She had to get it back. Through the town square, passed tents, tethered horses and barking dogs, Kailee raced to within sight of the young gypsy who was nearly at her destination, and she pushed to catch the criminal before she escaped. Within moments, she leaped on Avion's back and wrestled her to the ground. As they fought, Avion screamed.

"Give it back," Kailee's anger welled up as her vision became shades of red. As she punched, she frantically searched for the dagger until her right hand found the familiar shape within the thieve's belt and grabbed it. Wrenching it away, she turned to run with it and....

Kailee's blurred vision soon cleared in time to see Alister carrying Avion into the front door of the church. Her senses and hands searched around her for the knife, it was gone. She pushed herself up and felt the nauseating cool wash course through her body as she wept, cradling her aching head in her hands. How could they do this to her? After all they had been through together.

Suddenly, a wave of energy and concussive blast knocked her backwards as she skidded across the flagstone and came to rest on her back as small gravel-sized rocks pelted the area around her. She rolled to her left side and wrapped her arms around her head for protection until the dust finally settled. Eyes closed, she lay there as tears streamed. Soon, the realization hit her, how could she have jeopardized her friendships over a stupid dagger? How idiotic. Then the memory of the explosion hit her. She sat up and spun to look to the front door of the church which was wide open and had attracted the attention of many others who raced to the sanctuary. She jumped up and followed as they congregated at the entrance and the smell of burned flesh was obvious.

"Let me through," she yelled, muscling her way through the solemn assembly. Most moved themselves as she finally reached the front and noticed the blackened pit in the stone floor as clerics looked up at the loud intruder, candles in hand.

"Kailee," Alister yelled from the darker interior. She looked beyond the clergy to see him move towards her and she rounded the scene to join him.

"Where's Avion," she asked frantically.

"She's recovering in a room," he motioned. "You alright?"

She nodded and quickly jogged around the long line of benches and headed the way he had pointed. Glancing into small, sparsely appointed rooms, she finally found Avion lying on a bed as a female cleric started to leave.
As she rushed past, she looked to the older woman, "Will she be alright?"

"She's fine. She just needs to rest."

Kailee nodded and leaned down, wrapped her arms around the petite patient and wept. "Avion, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to hurt you."

Arms raised and embraced her in return. "I know. It's alright."

The next morning, Kailee woke up cradled in the fetal position within two chairs facing one another as Avion and Alister were also coming to. She raised her head and then sat up, stretching. "How are you," she asked, leaning forward. Avion's bruised wrists and right arm made her realize how violent and how restrained Kailee was during the fight.

"I'm fine. They said I could leave at any time, it's just hard to get out of this comfortable bed."

Kailee smiled and glanced to their male counterpart as he sat up.

"How's your head," he asked.

"Fine. I heal rather quickly."

He grinned apologetically. "I didn't want to do that, but I didn't know what else to do. The priest that destroyed it said that it had been created by evil. He gave his life to rid the world of it's power and influence."

Kailee rested her head sideways on her hands and stared at the floor for a moment. She didn't know what to say.

Page 34 - Homecoming

After breakfast, the group congregated around the wagon as Sceva joined them. Lericanin stepped up and eyed the group.

"You all know that my family in Anderslough and I never really got along well. I'm worried about my grandparents, I just learned that the enemy has rolled through that town and is marching north. I haven't found many here from Anderslough but, I've heard that the towns of Brian and Iszak have many from that area. I know we'll be heading through Iszak to get back to Carbost so I'd like to ask everyone to keep an ear and eye open for any news."

All were in agreement and they prepared for departure. Soon on the road again, the group traveled another two weeks until arriving in Iszak, the home of another duke for that province. Similar to many of the northern cities that they had passed through, the streets and homes were choked with outsiders running from the orc army who had successfully rolled over much of the kingdom's defenses. Kailee left Spike with Avion and followed Lericanin as he headed to the church of Arhus and went inside. She hoped that with all of the refugees, the clerics would be too busy to notice one vampire in their midst.

"Excuse me, sir." Lericanin approached a younger cleric as he cleaned the foyer.

"Yes," the polite reply.

"I was wondering if you have any refugees from Anderslough here."

Brown eyes scanned the sanctuary in thought. "No, most here are from Annan and Thetford. I might try the church of Yaeby if I were you. I seem to recall many from that area staying in their sanctuary."

"Thank you."

"Of course."

Kailee followed on his heels as they departed and walked through the marketplace turned into a tent city full of playing children, farm animals and mothers trying to feed their families on what little they had. Eventually, they arrived at the church dedicated to the deity of youth and good fortune.
Kailee scanned the crowd, "What do they look like?"

"My grandfather's bigger than I am. Greying hair, brown eyes, arms almost as big as your waist."

"Should be easier to find." She narrowed her search for larger individuals as they entered the large porch that fronted the main sanctuary as a voice called out to Lericanin. They both turned to see the male of medium build, patchy beard as he approached, anger in his hazel eyes.

"Well, well. I didn't think you'd have the nerve to ever show your face within the kingdom again." He glanced up to the tattoo on Lericanin's forehead. "How convenient is that, following the god of justice. You hypocrite!"

It took a moment for the identity to hit her friend as Kailee waited to find out what this confrontation was all about. "You know him," she asked.

"Yes," he sighed.

"Is this another of your likely ladies? How many children has she bore you?"

"Do you have a particular problem that needs solving?" Lericanin returned, hand lowering to his hammer.

"Yes, I need you to take responsibility for my sister's daughter. At least acknowledge that she exists." The raised voices attracted the attention of two priests who quickly moved to separate the two men. "You know what, forget it. She's better off without you. But some advice that I would give, burn that tattoo off your face and quit being a pretender!"

"I think you need to leave, son," the priest mentioned as his arm went to Lericanin while the second pulled their verbal attacker away. "I'll not have this here."

Lericanin's face glowed as he backed. "She wasn't complaining that day in the loft."

"Stay out of Anderslough!"

Kailee followed as they quickly left, his grandparents weren't here anyway. Once back out into the main street, he sighed as a large hand coursed through long hair.

"What is it," she asked.

"I'm worried about Nyrellia. I've heard that Kecel still holds, but I don't know for how long."

"I'm sure she's fine."

He nodded and they continued on to another large congregation of the displaced. As Lericanin turned to ask an older couple a question, Kailee noticed a large, older man walk up behind her friend, wrap large arms around him and lift him into the air in a bear hug.

"Where have you been, boy?" his deep voice reverberated in the confines of tents and people. He lowered Lericanin to the ground who quickly turned and smiled.

"Grandfather," he hugged the larger man tightly. "I was beginning to worry."

Loud patting on the grandson's back, the elder retreated a step. "I know, your grandmother has been getting unruly without a kitchen to govern. I've been keeping my sword sharp just in case."

Lericanin chuckled, then turned and motioned to her. "Grandpa, this is my friend, Kailee. Kailee, this is my grandfather."

She smiled, "Hello."

He offered a large, beefy hand which engulfed her own. "You can call me Becan, child." His smile was familiar as he glanced to his grandson. "You always did have good taste, she's beautiful."

"It's not like that at all, actually she's just a friend."

Brows furrowed. "What's the matter with you, you've got to make an honest woman out of this one before someone else does. Haven't I taught you anything?"

Lericanin avoided the subject, "Where's grandma?"

Becan motioned behind him, "Can't you smell the bread?"

"I thought that scent was familiar," he mentioned as they followed their host to the small clearing carved out of the large carvan assembly area. The older woman wiped her hands as her creased face brightened. She wrapped her arms tightly around Lericanin as she wept. "I feared the worst. Praise the Lady for this day," she declared joyfully. Soon, she backed, caressing his face and Kailee could sense the emotion that Lericanin fought away.

"Grandma, this is my friend, Kailee," he motioned with his eyes.

Blue eyes turned and smiled. "Isn't she an angel. Hello, Kailee."

She smiled and nodded, "Pleasure, ma'am". If she only knew.

Becan sat down on a box. "Alright, woman. These kids are hungry, get to it."

"Did you hear something," she eyed Lericanin, then grinned. She took two steps back and scanned her grandson. "You are looking a bit thin."

"It's not the years, it's the leagues that we've traveled."

"Well sit down here, and let me get you something." Bryana moved back to lean over her pots and tended the fire.

"Where have you been," his grandfather asked, packing his pipe with tobacco from a leather pouch.

"After they disbanded the Kumai, I ventured west and met my friends during a festival in Carbost and from there we signed on with the Tavayen merchant family and escorted a caravan to Lamar and back. We helped a friend from Tywyn and we've just returned from the east with another family problem."

Kailee noticed that he failed to mention how far east they had been.

"Where are these friends now?" his grandmother asked as she stirred the pot of broth full of vegetables.

"We've parked our wagon not far from here. I'll get them in time or take you to them, if you want."

She nodded, "You haven't been home since you went into the army, have you?"

Lericanin's eyes sank. "No."

Bryana nodded, watching him for a moment, then glanced to her. "So, where did you meet Lericanin?"

"The temple of Laksay." She wasn't sure how much to reveal.

"What were you doing there," Becan asked, smoke rising from his pipe that hung from his mouth.

"I lived there for a time."

A thick brow raised. "What? I thought that was a training compound and waypoint for templar."

"It was," Lericanin cut in. "But it was destroyed some time ago by orcs. We found her in the ruin as we were waiting for a bridge across the Dovey to be completed."

He nodded, studying them both as he enjoyed the fragrant habit. "And your parents?"

"Becan," Bryana interrupted. "Leave the poor girl alone. If she wants to talk about herself, she will."

"It's alright, ma'am. Actually, my grandparents live in Carbost, not far from one of our friend's aunt and uncle," she revealed proudly.

He nodded and turned his attention to dinner as the competing scents fought in the air around them. Kailee sensed that Lericanin could be left here and be right at home, but she knew that more had to be accomplished first.

Page 35 - Wounds Reopened

The night's coolness was welcome in the crowded square as Alister and Sceva had returned after running the horses and allowing them to graze along with the many other steads as their owners tried to find a place to relax from the apprehension that plagued Iszak. Kailee approached Lericanin as he lay on the roof of the wagon, staring up into the night sky and sat nearby.

"I'm thinking that I need to make a trip to Anderslough," he mentioned. "I'll meet the group in Bakony when you all arrive."

"There's an enemy army ravaging that area."

"Most of the fighting now is north of Annan, three days north of my home. This is something that has been a long time in coming."

"Then I'll go with you."

"I'm not expecting a joyous party when I get there," he glanced to her. "We may be riding out of Anderslough for our lives."

"I can run faster than your horse," she grinned.

He chuckled. "I hate you," he said playfully.

"You can't lie to a mentalist."

"I was kidding."

Kailee glanced around to the sleeping city. "If you'd rather go alone, that's fine."

"No, actually it would be good to have some company. We'll leave at first light."

* * *

Kailee convinced the reluctant horse that had belonged to Tia to calm as she climbed into the saddle while Lericanin briefed Sceva and Alister. "We'll probably get to Bakony the same time you do, I'm not planning on being there long."

"Unless the baron's dungeon has missed you," Alister smiled.

"If that's the case, I'll send Kailee back with the news and your precious horses."

"You better. I've spent too much time with them to just give them to some noble."

"Arhus go with you, be careful.'

"You too."

Kailee directed her stead as they waved and departed the city, making their way southeast and staying off of the roads. She didn't complain about not having fires at night as she could see just fine without them, but knew that Lericanin had to trust his ears moreso than usual.
As she dried herself after a swim in the lake and got dressed, she noticed that he had moved south of their campsite and she headed over to investigate. Standing in a small meadow, she noticed him crouch and study something on the ground.

"What is it," she asked as she approached.

"I think someone has marked these stones for a gate," he pointed out the unique, round rocks carved with a symbol and Kailee could sense the latent magical power within. He rose and spied another not far from the first.

"I think you're right. I don't know much about gates and such, but these are definitely markers for something." She rose as he pulled the second up out of the ground and walked over to the first. "What are you doing?"

"We're going to save the town of Brian which is not far east of here," he informed as he pulled up the remaining stone and headed for the lake. She followed him, curiousity piqued as they reached the shoreline and he threw them as hard as he could. Arcing high in the air, they plunged near the center of the still body. "Let's see you gate your army in here now. I hope they can breathe underwater."

Kailee smiled and they headed back to their campsite.

* * *

After skirting a large battle to their west that engulfed the rolling valley north of Annan, they arrived in the quiet farming hamlet of Anderslough. Burned homes and crops greeted them to the darkened landscape as Lericanin quietly rode into the small town as many helped one another rebuild. Her eyes scanned to the baron's keep standing high and commanding the town from a low hill on the eastern side of the community and revealed little of the battle that she expected had taken place here. As green eyes viewed the shattered faces that stared at them, Lericanin reined in his horse and stopped in front of a modest home and she noticed a younger couple sitting on the porch with a young girl. Lericanin dismounted as the male rose and eyed them quietly. His dark hair, steel-blue eyes and stature made her realize that they had arrived at Lericanin's home or at one of a relative.

"Lericanin," the stranger greeted with quiet contempt.

"Elmin." Lericanin approached cautiously as the blonde woman stared uncomfortably as she held the young girl close. Their eyes told volumes as the veteran walked into the house.

"I'm Kailee," she introduced.

He nodded, as hands went to his leather coat and straightened it. "Elmin, I'm his brother." He turned to the attractive blonde, "This is my wife, Sarah and our daughter, Lina."

Smiling, she dismounted and held the reins of the horse that tried to back away from her. "I was afraid there would be nothing left here. We've been hearing all sorts of rumors, very few being true."

"We'll have to rebuild the estate and replant our groves. But, Elminoir has blessed us, certainly. I guess they didn't feel like spending too much time here, once the militia was finished, they moved on."

"You weren't involved?"

He nodded. "I and my brother were there."

Suddenly arguing from inside spilled out through the front door as Lericanin stormed out, another on his heel that leaped and shoved Lericanin off of the steps as Sarah and Lina jumped up and backed.

"Don't worry, we're taking good care of your daughter," his attacker spat.

Angry punches flew, some connecting as the brothers hatred nearly seared the ground beneath them. Dodges, blocks and more pummeling ended suddenly as Lericanin connected with his older brother's chin, knocking him to the ground in a heap. Kailee swore that she heard a sickening pop from deep within his neck.

"Petronin," an older woman ran to the fallen's side and cradled the limp head in her arms. "Elmin, go get the priest, hurry."

Lericanin stood, sweating and panting as he watched the scene around him as Kailee listened to the his brother's heartbeat fade and stop. She quickly became nervous as the crying woman was joined by an older man who knelt beside her, then looked up to Lericanin accusingly.

"I didn't want to fight him." Lericanin defended. "He wouldn't back down."

Silence filled the scene as neighbors looked on until Elmin returned with an older, plump man in blue vestment that sported the symbol of Yaeby. He knelt down and tried to treat the victim. Soon, he looked up to the parents and shook his head, then stood as the tears resumed.

Quietly, Lericanin walked over to his horse, mounted and rode off as Kailee followed suit. He remained silent about the incident for the following days as they moved northwest until nearing the city of Bakony.

Pickets stopped them in the forest. "You'll have to camp here or return east, friend," the guard informed. "Bakony is under siege."

"Alright," Lericanin stated as they directed their mounts to the shadow of the bordering treeline.

Kailee dismounted and removed the saddle and gear from her horse and set them on the ground near her backpack, allowing the horse to graze. Other small camps dotted the area of those who had also decided to wait the battle out, trusting that the defenders would prevail. Lericanin gathered wood and made a fire as he began to cook dinner as she sat nearby.

"How are you doing," she finally asked.

"Fine. I defended myself," he eyed her. "I'm not happy about the outcome, but I guess if they wanted me arrested, we never would've made it this far."

She noted little remorse and wondered what fueled it. Perhaps another time. Her eyes drifted and noticed a haggard veteran ride up, speak to the guards and move to the treeline opposite of them across the road. His armor, clothing and demeanor told of someone who had been through as much as they had been, and it showed. She also noticed that his horse disliked its owner as much as their steads wished to be free of her. He dropped his gear on the ground and sat down. Browned, strong hands produced thin sheets of paper and a pouch that he commenced to pouring tobacco into and rolled, then licked the seam and began smoking as he leaned back and relaxed. Short greying brown hair jutted out of his scalp and was neatly trimmed and her eyes soon caught sight of the damaged and battered breastplate and chain shirt full of tears and holes.

"He's been through the mill," she mentioned as Lericanin followed her eyes and noted the veteran laying nearby.

Lericanin chuckled. "That's how I'll look in about twenty years."

Kailee glanced to him, "I seriously doubt that."

He smiled then looked to the loner, "You hungry, friend?"

Turning, the soldier perked up, "It certainly smells good," the mature, gravely voice stated.

"Tastes better, if I don't say so myself."

Rising, the stranger approached and sat down. "Far be it from me to decline hospitality. Name's Gunnar."

"Lericanin, this is Kailee," the cook motioned to her.

"Pleasure."

"Where you from," Lericanin asked as he spooned some of the stew into a bowl and handed it to Gunnar.

"Kalmar," he replied quietly, then commenced to eating.

"Long way from home," Lericanin mentioned as he filled another bowl and began eating also.

"Home's the road right now," his eyes glanced Kailee's empty hands. "You not eating?"

"I'm not hungry right now."

He nodded and continued. "More for us, I guess."

She smiled.

That evening, the wagon and their friends arrived and unloaded into the woods. Kailee loaded her pack inside and noticed that Spike had grown some as he came down the steps to explore the surroundings.
Later, as they sat and visited with one another and Gunnar, Kailee felt a surge in the distance. She turned towards the city and sensed the ending of an evil presence whose spirit evanesced back to the void. Perhaps they would now be able to enter the city and move on.

As morning arrived, Kailee awoke to the sound of people packing up, saddling horses and dousing fires. She rose and looked out of the vertical cut in the wall to see their neighbors forming up and moving towards the city. Spike on her heel, she went outside as Lericanin watched the long caravan begin to grow, Gunnar at his side.

"You can stay with us if you want," Lericanin mentioned.

The aged traveler stood, hands on hips as he watched the slow traffic. "Where are you headed?"

"Carbost right now. No telling where we'll end up afterwards."

Gunnar nodded. "Sure."

Page 36 - A Father's Regret

Picking their way through the burned hulks near the western gate, around messengers and acolytes racing to and fro to assist the wounded and bury the dead, and families trying to make sense of it all, the group made their way beyond the inner walled, royal quarter to an inn. Kailee followed the others out of the wagon to the front door where the owner and his wife suddenly stood and accepted their patrons.

"Good day, kind sirs and ladies. How may we serve you?" His bright smile belayed the pain of the past days of chaos.

"We're looking for lodging," Avion informed.

"Of course, right this way." He led them to the counter and made the transaction. The faint scent of blood in the floors attracted her and she wondered how many had died in this room as clerics and healers tried to help wounded soldiers.

After they claimed their rooms, Kailee walked down the wooden stairs and noticed Lericanin speaking to Alister. "I'll be back in a bit."

"Alright."

Kailee approached to see their undeclared captain leave. "Where's he going?" she asked as Alister turned to her.

"There's some things that he had to take care of while we're here."

She nodded as the front door closed.

* * *

Staring out of the large window, Alisandro took another long swig of the ale that he had allowed to become his staple since being released from the service of the church. Bishop Aluin had found out about his daughter when she and her friends had visited and about Alisandro's past attempted cover up. Memories of Bianka still plagued him, even after all these years and the popular alchemist in the service of Arhus had been reduced to a lonely alcoholic who's sole purpose in life now had been to rid his family name of the beast that had been born to his love that died bringing it into the world. Dark rimmed eyes stared from the unshaven face and long, dishevelled hair, grey from the years of stress and worry, fell down to his shoulders. It seemed to be his penance now to live in obscurity and seclusion.
A loud knock on the heavy, oaken door to his far right startled him out of his depression. He remained silent until the repetitive nuisance made him realize that this intruder wasn't going to leave anytime soon.

"What," he slurred.

"Master Alisandro? I was wondering if we could speak for a moment."

Sighing, he pushed himself up and stumbled amidst the dust covered floor, littered with empty bottles, to the door and slid the bar open. Immediately, his eyes rose to notice the large man standing there. His long black hair, pulled back into a pony tail, blue eyes and tanned skin told of a young fighter whose dedication to Arhus was displayed in the round tattoo above his brow.

"What do you want," Alisandro straightened, reddened eyes trying to focus.

"My name's Lericanin, I need to speak to you on a private matter."

Irritated that his privacy had been interrupted, he backed away and returned to his chair as the visitor entered and closed the door behind him.
"Want a drink?" he offered.

"No, thank you. I'm here about your daughter, Kailee."

Alisandro's heart began to race as his eyes drifted back to the kid. "You mean the beast, what about it?"

Lericanin stopped and glared at him for a moment. "She's not what you think she is."

"Really?! How stupid do you think I am? If the only reason that you've come here was to insult me, you can leave!"

"Kailee is a great person that longs to see her family and know about them, about you."

"You've been blinded by her charms, her kind are experts at that sort of manipulation. I advise that you destroy it at the first opportunity before the church does it for you and takes you into custody for keeping company with it." He leaned forward. "Was there anything else?"

"Yes, I'm sorry for you. That you never gave her a chance and stayed blind to what you've been told instead of learning about her on your own."

Bloodshot eyes stared blankly for a moment, "You are free to go." Alisandro watched the young man exit and shut the door as he seethed in his hatred, for life itself. Reaching back, he threw the bottle against the door that crashed, exploding into shards that hit the floor. The remaining liquor stained the wood and followed gravity to the floor, reflecting the tears that streamed down his face.

* * *

Kailee sat at the long table with Alister and Avion as Lericanin strode back in later that afternoon. She could tell immediately that something weighed heavy on his mind as he rounded the bench and sat down next to her.

"How did your business go?" Alister queried.

"Fine," he stated quietly, then turned to her. "I found you father, if you'd like to meet him."

Green eyes stared for a moment and she could tell that this visit would be more for the benefit of her father than herself. She wasn't sure if that was such a good idea.

"I appreciate your efforts, but I don't want us running from this city also."

He nodded in understanding and turned his attention to crossed hands on the table. She smiled, turned to him and gave him a hug.

Page 37 - To Capture a Witch

After the remaining weeks on the road, the group finally arrived at Alister's family farm. Walls were up and framing for the roof was in progress as Kailee noticed Darian, Alister's father and uncle walking the narrow wall and tying more crossbeams onto the frame.

"Alister!" the younger brother yelled excitedly as he waved. Kailee grabbed Spike and carried him out into the cloudy day whose darkening clouds promised an evening rain. Rupert and Thurgen followed her as the reunion began while Margaret and his aunt, Katarina ran out through the front door and hugged their adventuring son and nephew tightly. She always enjoyed these visits with his family as they had adopted the group and eagerly awaited each visit.

After climbing down, Markus Stormfrost hugged Alister and greeted his friends. "Just in time," he smiled, pointing to the work in progress.

"Where do you need us," Lericanin offered as they began helping into the afternoon until the smell of a big dinner wafted out through the empty window frames and called them to the dinner table.

Kailee sat in a recently finished rocking chair as Spike wrestled and tore at a fresh piece of deer meat at her feet as the others ate hungrily. Spike's table manner's paled in comparison, of course coming from a biased point of view.

"So," Markus began as he sat back and let his food settle. "How long will you be in town?"

"Some time," Alister informed. "We have also been discussing hunting down Isolata."

His family all quietened and eyed their ambitious adventuring member.

"Knights and others have sought her out for years," his father reminded, apprehension in his voice. "Very few have ever returned. You sure about this?"

"The baroness has been in seclusion long enough," Lericanin wiped his mouth and grabbed the wooden cup before him. "It's time that her curse be lifted."

* * *

After the two week stay, the group helped the Stormfrost family finish their home and barn, then struck out for the Misty Hills, the home of their dwarven counterparts. Nestled within the foothills of the Black Mountains, the city of Nosur Aerdorn had a long and colorful history which Thurgen spent most of the five day journey to his home explaining.
Once their wagon passed through the high, strong gates, Rupert and his twin led the group to their home. Within a tightly knit community, the solid, two-story structure was modest in most respects. While their hosts proudly strode into the front door to their home, Kailee stepped out of the wagon and noticed the attention that the intruding humans garnered from the locals.

"They certainly know how to build," Sceva noted as his eyes scanned the community and distant ringing defenses.

"Thurgen was saying that they've had to survive attacks from the goblins and orcs as well as raids from the Shadow Range to the east," Kailee mentioned.

"Markus was telling us that the Black Anvil clan actually helped save Carbost and chased the orc army to the south where they're still fighting now."

"Fighting must be in their blood then."

Chuckling, the knight of Elminoir turned to the house as Kailee followed his eyes to Thurgen and another dwarf with him.

"Father, this is Lericanin, Alister, Avion, Sceva and Kailee. Everyone, this is our father, Baern."

Grey, braided hair and beard dipped as the elder smith nodded in recognition of each visitor. She knew that most dwarves lived to be around three to four hundred years old and wondered how much Baern had seen during his lifetime.

"Welcome to the home of the Hammerhand family," his deep, authoritative voice boomed.

"We appreciate your hospitality," Lericanin thanked.

After their large supper, the evening alcohol flowed as they sat on the front porch, Lericanin resolved to sitting on the grass with Alister and Kailee as they played with the energetic wolf.

"We've narrowed our search to the Shadow Range," Lericanin informed their host. "We were wondering if you had any advice as to how to find her."

Bearn chuckled. "No one's ever gone in those mountains on purpose, son. That's why we built the signal towers along the ridge. Grey dwarves are said to live with demons in those valleys and caves, they feed on flesh."

Lericanin mused and Kailee knew the danger only made the challenge more inviting.

* * *

As the sun rose over the eastern range, the group set out on foot and climbed the fifteen thousand feet to the summit's treeline within sight of two tall, stone towers.

"We'll wait here until nightfall and pass between them," Lericanin mentioned as they only had a little while to wait. They sat within the dark shadows of the surrounding pine and ate as Kailee looked back and out through the green needles to see the distant, verdant hills rolling south and away from the majestic, snow capped mountains. As the wind whistled through the boughs above, the sun fell below the horizon and signaled their departure into the Shadow Range. She turned and noticed Avion take out the tall statue that she and Tia had found in the bardic college some time ago and set it on her lap as she stared.

"What direction and how far is the witch known as Isolata?" she asked as the group looked on in anticipation. Soon, within the open circle a bluish, swirling mist emerged.

"Five days, northeast," the ghostly, male voice informed.

Avion nodded, then returned the artifact to her backpack and shouldered it again.

"That's it then, let's go," Rupert promoted as he stood.

Traveling through treed valleys shrouded in mist and fog, they evaded mounted goblin patrols for the better part of the five day journey as Kailee's senses helped evade possible capture or worse. As the fifth day wore on, they arrived at the banks of a wide and deep river whose dark waters made Kailee nervous. She always had these feelings when approaching bodies of water and Sceva told her that vampires were all this way, from what he had read. They watched as Avion took one end of the coiled rope and swam across, then tied it around the trunk of a thick oak. One by one, they crossed until Kailee's turn came. As she touched the water, and gripped the long, braided tan line, she concentrated and melted into waterform. This was the easiest way to avoid the fear of it, and moved across quickly, then emerged on the opposite side and reformed into the physical form that everyone recognized.
As she relaxed, she noted the concern on everyone's face as they looked back across the river to see Lericanin rise with Thurgen, spitting water and cursing, and swam the dwarf across.

"I'm fine, damnit. Let me go." Soaked, the cleric shook out the wetness from his clothing and long, fiery hair.

Rupert laughed at him. "And I made it across."

"Shut up."

Lericanin and Sceva stepped in between the brewing confrontation, "Not here or now," the larger knight stressed. "We are in enemy territory, lower your voices."

Thurgen nodded, apologetically. "They've known we were here for some time, friend. This place never sleeps." The revelation wasn't well received.

"So what are they waiting for," Lericanin asked, scanning the surrounding forest and tall, cliff walls.

"Who knows. Thank you by the way, I'm in your debt," Thurgen mentioned as he claimed his hammer and the group resumed their journey.

Kailee noticed as the group coursed through the quiet forest, the scent of a cooking fire up ahead. Quickly moving up to Sceva, she pointed, "We're getting close."

Weapons readied, the group fanned out as they noticed the tall, grey walled tower and adjoining two story home whose grounds would have impressed Elminoir herself. Bright flowers of varying sizes and colors graced the building and fronted manicured shrubs.
Suddenly, flashes from the inner ring of trees dropped Gunnar and Alister as Kailee also felt the wash of energy from the well hidden warning system. As she crouched, she felt the surge of energy and turned to see a black robed form point a long, light tan colored staff at Lericanin as the older woman mouthed a word. A burst of fire emanated from the end of the thick staff and hit him square, sending him reeling backwards, crashing to the ground.
Kailee jumped up,drew her sword and sprinted to assist as the witch disappeared into thin air. He jumped back up, breastplate singed from the small fireball as Kailee stopped and scanned the surrounding woods for the next ambush as Thurgen rushed to Alister and Avion charged the tower, Rupert in tow. As they neared the base of the tower, another fireball lurched from the parapets and nearly caught the thief in the head, slamming the ground and dissipating into the green grass with a hiss. She charged to the edge of the treeline as Avion began climbing the walls and Lericanin drew his longbow and nocked an arrow.

"Come on down here," Rupert challenged and attracted the third blast that ricocheted harmlessly off of the blade of his axe. "Hah!" he yelled in defiance as Lericanin fired. Kailee watched as the witch dodged backwards and disappeared from view, unsure if the speeding missile had found its mark or not.

Kailee ran to Gunnar whose unmoving body lay in the tall, yellowing grass. "Thurgen," she yelled as she turned to notice Rupert charge the front door and hacked at it with his large axe, the pounding reverberating through the forest as Lericanin and Sceva moved up to cover Avion's progress up the tower's high wall. They watched as the lithe frame muscled her way up to a window and climbed in, disappearing until she re-emerged on the parapet.

"She's dead," the Kuzin announced.

Rupert stopped. "What!"

"Arrow caught her in the head, nice shot."

"We'll bring up a rope, tie her off and we'll lower the body down and take it back with us as evidence," Lericanin informed, handing Sceva the coil of rope and shouldered his bow.

As they made the long trek back towards the safer borders of the Misty Hills, Kailee felt a presence just outside of her senses that kept the group's progress in sight. She remained alert as they returned to Nosur Aerdorn and then the five day journey back to Carbost where they made their first stop at the gates of the baroness's keep.

Lericanin dismounted as the group watched the approaching sergeant eye the large bundle being offloaded from the roof of the wagon.

"Sir, we have a gift for the baroness."

As he approached cautiously, the sergeant eyed the long, mysterious package with apprehension. "What is it?"

"It's the body of Isolata."

Veteran, brown eyes shot to the fighter. "I don't have time for jokes, son."

"Is there anyone within the lady's court who could identify the body for us?"

Staring in concentration for a moment, the soldier turned to another armed guard, "Go get Lord Garents."

"Sir," the obedient reply as the younger soldier ran inside the gate. Kailee watched from the bench seat beside Avion as the guard returned with another older, well dressed man in dark blue coat and breeches. The thick, gold chain hanging around his neck gleamed in the noonday sun as his steel grey eyes viewed the scene.

"What is it, sergeant," the noble asked.

"These men have claimed to have killed Isolata, milord," he motioned to the bundle on the ground which Kailee had tried to stay upwind of for most of the trip. They watched as the magistrate moved to the body, hand over his nose and peeled away the thick blanket to view the white face. He stood and nodded then backed away.

"What is your name, sir?"

"Lericanin."

"I shall inform her ladyship immediately. Don't go anywhere." He turned on his heel and headed back into the compound.
Soon, another older and more distinguished noble emerged from the compound and accompanied by Herblon, the priest of Yaeby that the group had met on occasion.

"This is a glorious day, my friends," the chamberlain announced as the guards moved aside. "You have been instrumental in freeing our lady from a menace that has plagued her dreams for many years. I thank you. How may her Ladyship reward her most faithful subjects?"

"I didn't do this for reward or title, sir, "Lericanin began. "I did it to help release the curse on the baroness, that's all. Arhus blesses in his own way. Please tell her ladyship that she is very welcome."

Kailee thought the act was noble until she noticed the smile on the chamberlain's face melt. He nodded, "As you wish, however, this task did come with a reward," he pulled a small pouch from his tunic and handed it to Lericanin, grinned and turned to the sergeant. "Place the witch's head on a pole and display it before the gate. Have the cursed body disposed of."

Herblon approached as the sergeant went to work and the chamberlain returned to his normal duties. "You have lifted a weight with this act, friend. She won't forget your names."

Lericanin smiled and nodded as they resumed their ride back to a long awaited hot meal at Alister's aunt and uncle's home.

Page 38 - Clandestine Reunion

After the group's celebration, most went off to bed as Kailee climbed the stairs to the room that she and Avion had been given for their visit. Within the candlelight, long shadows flickered across the bed, small table and rug as they prepared to rest.

"I wish I could have grown up with Alister's family," Avion mentioned as she crawled to the far side and pulled up the thick blanket over her lap. "I love coming here."

Kailee smiled and nodded as she sat underneath the blanket beside her and laid down. "They've always been nice to us, that's for sure." She looked down to Spike who sat on the floor, staring at her, reached down and drew him up to lay between them.

"How did the visit go with your grandparents?"

"Well," Kailee mentioned as she leaned up and blew out the candle, then laid back down. "I told them everything."

A long silence filled the dark room.

"Everything? Such as..."

"About me," Kailee recalled their stoic faces as she sat there waiting for the call for the patrol or someone to warn the church.

"What did they say?"

"Very little. They wanted to know how I found out, how I knew that to be true and why I could walk in daylight. I think my grandmother remains in denial but my grandfather believed me. He remembered the marks on my mother's neck when he found her. I think he was hoping that I was unaffected."

"Hmm. Do you think they'll tell anyone?"

"I don't think so, that could put them in danger." Kailee wished she could just be normal.

As she drifted off to sleep, her mind glided through a myriad of thoughts and memories until resting on a garden in some enchanted forest. She glided through, fingers carressing rose petals as puffy, white seeds drifted to the ground until her eyes met the most beautiful blonde girl she had ever seen. As she studied the face, hair and eyes, her joy sobered as she realized that they could have been sisters. Her blue eyes reflected the dim light that pierced the surrounding trees as she approached.

"Hello, Kailee. How have you been?" her pearl white teeth and gorgeous smile softened any resistance to the unusual feeling in Kailee's heart.

"Okay," she said as tears began to flow with the realization as to whom she was looking at. "Mother?"

The angel's smile warmed as she neared, wrapped her arms around the sobbing girl and held her tightly. "I'm here, my love. I'm never going to leave you alone again, I promise."

Tightness in her chest nearly made Kailee double as she couldn't believe the feeling of finally meeting the one she had dreamed of for so long. Her arms grappled so tightly for fear of losing the moment forever. "I've prayed for this moment," she pushed out.

"So have I. I'm sorry for not coming for you sooner, but I'm going to make up for lost time, you'll see."

The joy was so powerful that it hurt but, it was a pain that Kailee didn't want to end. Soon, her mother backed and wiped the tears from her own eyes, then carressed Kailee's face. "Today, some men are going to come and bring you to me. Trust them, okay?"

Kailee sobered. "What?"

"Guards in the uniforms of the magistrate are going to visit, go with them. I'll come to get you tonight and we can be together forever as a family. I can't wait for you to see our home." Bianka gently touched the sides of Kailee's face, drew her down and kissed her on the forehead, then backed away.

"Don't go."

"I'll see you tonight," she smiled and faded.

* * *

Kailee sat up in the dim light of the morning, frantically searching the room as Spike perked up. Avion's soft breathing was all that she found. Quickly, she rose, pulled on her pants and boots as she wiped away tears and headed downstairs as she strained her senses to find her mother until stepping outside in the brisk air. Quietly, the wagon stood in the narrow drive and she could feel the heartbeats of the horses and Lericanin who slept in the loft, but no one else. She sighed as the light breeze carried her long, light brown hair to the side and cooled the nearly dried tears on her cheeks. She walked over to the rear step of the wagon and sat down.

As the morning wore on she watched as Darian did his chores, the group ate breakfast and Lericanin, Sceva and the dwarves attended their hobbies around her.

"You alright," Sceva asked. "You look like you didn't sleep well."

"I'm fine," Kailee nodded, hair loose and cascading down her back.

He studied her for a moment. "You sure?" he knelt before her as concerned green eyes threatened to find her deepest secrets. "You know you can tell me anything, we've traveled together long enough now I think."

She smiled innocently. "I dreamed of my mother last night," she mentioned, leaning onto her arms that rested the length of her thighs. " She was beautiful."

He grinned, "That's understandable, giving the young lady I see before me."

Her eyes drifted to the street as the approach of a large body of horses and men arrived as Lericanin and Gunnar stepped out to see the armed militia dismount and form up as they entered the drive. Four of them sported surcoats of the barony of Anderslough: black and yellow triangles whose points met in the center. One produced and unfolded a piece of parchment.

"I'm here searching for Lericanin Averitt and Kailee," his cold, brown eyes rose as Kailee stood and Lericanin stepped forward.

"That's me," he stated, sighing.

"In agreement with the magistrate of Carbost, I am charged to take you and the young lady, henceforth from this place to the dungeon."

"What are the charges," Gunnar asked.

"Murder of one Petronin Averitt. You are free to leave your weapons with your friends," the soldier stated as he returned the warrant to his pouch and motioned to the other three guards who approached, their boots resounded off of the hard packed earth in time with the clanking of metal shackles they carried.

Kailee remembered the dream and stepped forward, offering her wrists as her eyes scanned the larger contingent of armed men and bowmen behind them, prepared for any problems during the arrest.

"Wait a second," Lericanin began. "She had nothing to do with this."

"She was your accomplice. We have witnesses from the scene of the crime that identified her there with you," the sergeant informed.

Kailee turned to Lericanin, "It's alright. Everything will be fine."

The guards led them both to the rear of a wagon whose walls were made of thick, iron bars and opened the rear door. Kailee stepped up inside and took a seat to look back to the group who all looked on in shock and helplessness as Lericanin sat across from her. Loudly, the door slammed and the lock put into place as the unit all reclaimed their saddles as the driver of the wagon drove them to the magisrate's office.

After being logged in with the magistrate that they had met the day before, guards led them down a long, stone stairway and into their individual cells where the shackles were removed. Kailee stepped into the dank, dark room as the door was closed behind her and locked. Now all she had to do was wait for nightfall.

Page 39 - The Other Half

As the hours wore on, Kailee crouched in the wet, rocky room that had become smaller with each passing moment. To stem the boredom, she replayed the events of her life since being released from her world in Laksay. All of her friends had become her family and she would never forget them, but now was her time to be with the one who brought her into the world and another part of her missing life would be filled. She smiled as the dream of her mother took her back to being held like she was needed and she couldn't wait to feel that again.

Suddenly, the sounds of combat echoed outside in the large torture chamber which prompted her to rise. This was it. Moans of the dying guards could be heard, muffled in the distance as footsteps ran up to the door and her rescuers magically opened the lock. Creaking open, the door revealed Bianka in the darkness who reached out to her.

"Come on, darling. Let's go home."

Kailee quickly ran to and hugged her mother again. They turned and quickly moved out of the detention area and up the stairs to enter the main hallway. She finally noticed the other four females that were with them who all stopped.

"Relax," Bianka told her, wrapped her right arm underneath Kailee's and within an instant, she felt the odd sensation of teleporting. After the dark swirling cloud dissipated, they stood outside the walls of the city and she noticed the large wagons that awaited them as well as the men who stood by. Bianka led her into the back of one of the large transports and she quickly noticed the caskets that lined both walls and the pair that were suspended above them.

"You can create your body into a mist?" she asked.

"Yes."

"Do so and come with me," her mother instructed whose young, strong body dissipated into the dark wispy fume and seeped through the cracks of one of the long containers and Kailee followed suit. As they reformed inside, she lay beside Bianka and held her close. She suddenly felt the presence of another arriving whose power made Kailee nervous for a moment as she perked up.

"Don't fear, my love. That's my husband and your true father, William."

* * *

That following night, Kailee awoke as the wagon stopped.

"We're here," Bianka stated and they both concentrated. Within a moment, five dark, gaseous forms re-emerged outside. "Kailee, these are my sisters: Nellina, Catherine, and Sarah. Girls, you know my daughter," she introduced.

Nellina, a gorgeous brunette whose striking blue eyes shimmered in the moonlight approached and hugged her. "We've all been waiting for many years to finally have you come visit. Welcome home."

"Thank you."

Catherine's red hair and green eyes reflected the torchlight as Nellina backed and she neared. "Nice to meet you, Kailee. I guess this makes us all your mothers, doesn't it?" she mentioned with a smile and hugged her, then retreated.

Kailee chuckled as she accepted the arms of Sarah, another attractive brunette with hazel-brown eyes who hugged her. "Welcome home."

"Thank all of you," Kailee never felt kinship and smiled as they all turned to the remaining couple who approached. Both very attractive, and both with dark black hair. She with brown eyes and he with steel-blue.

"William," Bianka began. "This is our daughter, Kailee. Kailee, this is Sir William, Duke of Warwick and his first wife, Anita De Mirijan."

Kailee bowed respectfully as William gently took her hands in his own. "Mine eyes have never looked upon one so beautiful and innocent. Had I not known better I would've thought I had strayed into a dream. I hope that you will look upon me and us as your family and I promise you that you will have want for nothing. To that I vow, my love." Raising her hands to his lips, he kissed both and stepped back as Anita neared.

Appearing no older than Kailee herself, Anita kissed her on the cheek and looked her in the eyes. "We're all here to teach you what you need to know to survive in this world. William and I have lived here for a very long time and we all know what you've been through and I look forward to getting to know everything about you," her mature, calming voice also had a strong undertone of authority within it.

"I look forward to learning more." She felt a bit nervous amidst the adults that all looked as if they had all grown up together. But, she knew in her heart that their accumulated years of survival hadn't been wasted. Anita took her hand and they all walked into the large castle as the drivers drove the wagons to a long barn that was built against the main wall near the front gate. Towers rose into the night sky from each corner and pointed to the distant snowcapped peaks that touched the stars. They stepped inside to the long, high ceilinged Great Hall whose hearth was large enough for a tree. Servants bowed and continued about their chores and William led his wives to chairs around the head of a large, oaken table, drawing seats for each and claiming his own last.

"I'm sure you have questions, Kailee," William's strong hands motioned.

She didn't know exactly where to begin, then looked to her mother. "How long have you been here?"

"I came here the night after they buried me, eighteen years ago. I remember seeing William and Anita who invited me and introduced me to Sarah, Nellina and Catherine who've been with them for many years. I wanted to return to Carbost to bring you with me, but we decided that it may attract too much attention. And then idiotic Alisandro locked you away in that dungeon and ran when the temple was attacked, more interested in saving his own skin than freeing you."

Her mind drifted to the sight that Lericanin was greeted with when he visited her father.

"I didn't know about your whereabouts until William mentioned that you and your friends had been not fifteen miles from here last week. That was when we decided that it was time you came home."

Kailee nodded. "I'm glad you did." Her green eyes drifted to William. "What's going to happen to Lericanin?"

"He was freed and cleared of all charges. It seems that the baroness stepped in and spoke to the judges on his behalf."

"That's good to hear."

He smiled. "Your friends are survivors and I'm glad that they've looked after you the way they have but, it's time for you to come into your own. You realize that you will outlive their descendents for many generations. But, all of us will be here for you always. Make yourself at home."

* * *

Bianka showed Kailee around the extensive floorplan of the castle which was separated in half. One side included guest rooms and large baths, the other housed the military and the workshops and storerooms for their gear as well as the library and kitchen that bordered the great hall. They crossed the immense dining room and Bianka opened the ornately carved door and led her into the chapel dedicated to Sater. Kailee stopped in her tracks.

"What's wrong?" Bianka asked as she turned.

"You worship Him?" Her eyes noted the large fiery eye sported in the center of the columned sanctuary's floor.

"He's kept us alive and helped this town flourish. I don't offer to him like the townspeople do, but I do appreciate what he's done."

Kailee remained quiet.

"Don't fear, it's alright for you to believe as you wish. All of us come from various backgrounds and beliefs. But, listen to their stories before you judge them, alright?"

She nodded as she continued following her mother through the gate, across the long drawbridge and out into the town whose buildings rose with the contours of the mountainside. A large clearing was bordered by the church, theatre, marketplace, hospital and strongly built, large residences that also contained an inn on the north and south sides of town. Farms dotted the hillside on both sides of the river as well as mills that hugged the passing flow that divided the scenic surroundings.
They soon entered The Onyx, a tavern whose lively music flowed into the streets and she finally got to see some of the locals who all stood and bowed to them as they passed. Bianka approached a shapely woman in her mid forties who bowed. Long, curly brown hair flowed down her back and framed her tanned skin as light green eyes rose to greet them.

"My lady, how may I serve you?"

"Margelina, this is my daughter, Kailee. I'm showing her around town and was wondering if you could entertain her for a moment."

"Of course, I'd be delighted."

Bianka turned to Kailee, kissed her on the cheek. "I have some things to tend to for a moment. Why don't you sit and talk to her for a moment, I think you'll enjoy the company."

"Alright," Kailee nodded and watched Bianka head upstairs as the owner motioned to a table nearby. They sat across from one another.

"How do you like Warwick thus far?"

"Actually, I like it a lot. I'm amazed that a town of this size has so many things to offer. Most of the performances that I've heard of took place in the street, not a large ampitheatre."

Margelina smiled proudly. "The lord and ladies take great care of us, to be sure. I look forward to their performances on the weekends and I enjoy taking part in some of the plays that they've done."

Kailee's attention had been fully grabbed with that revelation. "They conduct plays?"

"Oh yes, the duke recites poetry, they all reenact plays from the capitol that they enjoyed as children. I sing as well as Lady Catherine and Lady Sarah. It's a lot of fun."

"How did you hear about this place?"

Her aged eyes drifted for a moment as her smile faded a bit. "Lady Anita found me in an alleyway in Glencoe almost ten years ago. I had endured the dungeon below the church where the priests tried to purge me of the sinful life that I led. I was beaten, burned, nearly drowned and starved for weeks. All in the name of a loving god that cherished his children." Kailee could feel the anger well up inside her host. "I've done nothing to deserve any of that and I know that there will come a day when they are judged for torturing people who are a little different from them, stealing their money and making them believe that they have all the answers. All they know is their own greed and arrogance." Margelina sighed and looked to her tanned hands. "I'm sorry."

"Actually, it's alright. I know exactly how you feel."

Page 40 - Reminiscing

Kailee followed the servant down the long, lavishly decorated hallway from her bedroom to the bath. Centered in the rug covered floor stood a marble tub large enough for five or six people. Four thin columns rose from each corner wrapped in ivy that fell to just touch the floor. Kailee's heart, excited with the accomodations took a moment to take in the private room as the younger woman set the towels on the padded bench seat to her right and rose, then bowed.

"Is there anything else that I can get you, my lady," she asked politely, eyes to Kailee's midsection.

"No, thank you. What is your name?"

She grinned sheepishly, "Alysse, my lady."

"My name's Kailee. I'm not a noble, I wasn't born a noble. Okay?"

"But, my lady is the daughter of our lord and the duchess, Bianka."

Kailee gave up. "Thank you, Alysse."

"Yes madam," the polite reply as the the servant exited, her long blue dress flowing as she scurried out.

Kailee undressed and lowered herself into the scented, warm water and relaxed. She closed her eyes and allowed her mind to drift in the quiet until it found the group. Lericanin's cooking, Avion's smile, Sceva's wisdom and wit, Alister's care for their animals and quiet confidence, the dwarves' brashness, Spike's soft heartbeat and playfulness. How she missed them.

"Enjoying your bath," Bianka interrupted from behind and above.

Kailee opened her eyes and looked up to see those deep blue eyes and golden locks falling down, and the bright smile. "Yes, very much. Did you just wake?"

Bianka nodded as she rounded the nearest column and sat on the edge of the bath, then ran her fingers through the water. "We're going to perform tonight, I'm here to get you ready. We've got a closet full of dresses and I have a few in mind for you. Have you been studying today?"

"Yes. I just finished that list you gave me so, you can test me tomorrow night if you wish."

"We'll get to that." She lovingly ran her fingers through Kailee's hair, drawing it from her face. "I still can't believe that your here with me. I dreamed for years about you, where you were, how you were doing. Now that you're here, the night's aren't long enough."

Kailee's heart melted. "I used to dream that you were a princess in some castle that would someday come to find me and take me from that forest. As I got older, I was happy just to imagine you living in the woods with me, running with the wolves, playing in the meadows at the bottom of the mountain near Anush's cave. As I traveled with the group, I always had it in the back of my mind that you and I would meet but, as time went on I began to lose that hope. And then of course, here you are."

Bianka smiled. "So, dreams do come true after all."

* * *

Doting on her as usual, Kailee endured another night of her mother's choosing her wardrobe and helping her accessorize as well as doing her hair. Then, once they were done, she followed them out into the great hall where William waited patiently. His long leather coat, black pants and high boots accented the white, silk shirt, tailored as were all of their clothing. His long black hair was pulled away from his strong features and fell down to his shoulders as he sipped from a crystal goblet. He rose and smiled as they all approached.

"The heavens opened and directed all of the stars to fall into my home. Are we ready for tonight, my loves?"

"Absolutely," Anita stated as she received his arm.

Kailee followed them out to the awaiting carriages and rode up to the ampitheatre. The stands quickly began to fill as most of Warwick raced to get a good seat. She had already been here for two weeks and the time had flown for her. Looking out through the small window, she watched as the well dressed driver opened the door and offered his hand as she, Bianka and Catherine stepped out.

"He'll guide you to your seat," Bianka informed as she pointed to another, older gentleman waiting to their right. "We'll see you afterwards."

"Okay." Kailee replied as she watched her family walk up to the rear of the stage and disappear within a side door. Turning, she followed the priest to the walkway around the front of the seats as the minstrels warmed up underneath the front of the stage. She didn't particularly care for her escort and had avoided his presence as often as possible. His maroon coat, black clothing and silver chain supporting the pendant emblazoned with the eye of Sater hanging on his chest made her skin crawl. But, tonight she had a reason to be distracted as the crowd eagerly awaited tonight's performance in the cool night.

Beautifully orchestrated, the show opened up with a song from Margelina and was followed by the play that included not only her family, but also several other extras. As Kailee watched and listened, she realized the story was about Couronne in the early years. Intrigue and love within the court as well as conflict between two princes over a land grant from their grandfather swept the audience into the past as William and the wives used their magic to paint the city as they remembered it. As dramatically as it began, the play was over and William stepped out amidst loud applause and quoted a poem that had been written nearly five hundred years prior by the first king of Couronne to his daughter. The passion of the writer's lonliness brought tears to her eyes.

After they returned to the castle, Kailee went and changed and met everyone in the library where they spent most of their time lounging in the large leather seats and couch.

"How did you enjoy tonight's performance," William asked as Kailee sat on the couch across from he and Anita.

"It was great," she smiled as Bianka sat on one side of her with Nellina flanking her right.

"I'm glad. It certainly took me back."

Kailee smiled, a question in her mind for some time resurfaced as she watched him sip from his goblet.

Anita eyed her as Catherine and Sarah joined them. "What's on your mind, my love? You know you can ask us anything." All eyes gravitated to her.

"I was wondering how you two met."

Anita smiled, then glanced to William whose grin also made her realize this wasn't as big of a secret as she may have thought. His eyes carressed Anita as he took her hand. "I saw her one day in the marketplace. Her family had journeyed to Couronne bringing their wares from her home in Ticino, on the west coast. The moment I saw her, I was smitten, as I have been repeatedly with the other gorgeous ladies who have become a part of our lives."

"I remember my father told me that I should avoid the son of the innkeeper," Anita added, smiling. "Of course, I didn't listen."

"To my benefit," William continued. "I took her a rose and a poem that I had written that night as they had stayed in our tavern, while her father and his captain were drinking below in the main room. I remember my mother saying that she was out of reach, I'm glad that I didn't heed her advice. I doctored some story that she had run off with Sir Crovan's son and convinced Anita to stay with me. I hid her within my own room and she stayed with me until they had left town. We enjoyed the plays in the square, walks in the nearby forest and were soon wed near the sacred oak by a priest of Elminoir not a week after we had met."

Anita chuckled, "If only he could see us now." A comment that made all of the ladies laugh.

Page 41 - Rescue Attempted

A light breeze wafted through the open windows as Kailee walked through the great hall to the library where she had been spending nearly all of her free time. High shelves full of volumes from all over the Astaran Empire graced the walls and reached the ceiling. She had only been able to read two or three and was amazed that William and Anita had read all of them at least three times through. She picked up a leather bound monster written by two clerics from Thurgau that involved lists on self healing that she had been given by her mother the night before. She sat down on the couch and opened the tome as the main door opened bordering the great hall and turned to see Father Cowen walk in, grinning.

"My lady, how fortuitous that I've found you. There are some things that I've been wishing to speak to you on, if you'll allow."

Kailee sighed in her mind and closed the book. "Certainly," she said half-heartedly.

His greying brown hair was neatly trimmed as was his van dyke, black robes clean and well treated. Sitting in the chair near her, he relaxed. "I've needed this opportunity to speak to you, on behalf of his lordship. We felt that you had been through a great deal moving to a new home and getting settled in, so I felt it prudent that I waited until now."

"What did you wish to know?" Walls thrown up and reinforced.

"I've noticed that you don't wear a pendant dedicated to anyone. Do you not have any dedication to our Father?"

"No."

His brows raised. "I see, is there any particular reason?"

"Several."

"Perhaps you hadn't been taught of his true nature, how he cares for us and protects us from those who would kill us on sight since we don't believe as they do. I know you've at least been affected by the ignorance of those dedicated to the other false gods."

She half nodded.

He sighed, hands crossed in front of him, elbows resting on the arms of the chair. "I know that your life hasn't been an easy one and I assure you, everyone in Warwick has been through many things to one degree or another. If you take the time to get to know them, you'll see that each of them came here for safety, otherwise they would've been executed for believing as they wished. Did you know that anyone wearing this pendant is imprisoned on sight and without trial, executed publicly without a hearing. Some have been hung when found by knights of Arhus and Elminoir. How is that justice?"

"What is your definition of evil?" she asked.

"Evil is not allowing anyone else the freedoms that we as intelligent humans should be allowed. Stereotyping all that don't believe as the majority does, using racial bigotry to fuel their reasons for crusade, Knights and priests of Arhus live by the sword and mete out justice according to their narrow views and prejudices instead of being objective."

"Murder? Rape? Things like that?"

"The world is full of it, unfortunately. Men are allowed their spoils of war to include the innocent women and children that they find, raping most and selling the rest to Sauqiran pirates and Macau slave traders. Our Father protects those in his charge in whatever way is necessary to preserve our lives and allow his will to endure. Those such as yourself will never be accepted by the churches who falsely profess tolerance. You know this to be true, don't you?"

Kailee tried her best to resist the logic for all of its flaws, but his last point hit home. Her green eyes drifted to the distant chairs and shelves beyond as the door opened again. They both turned to notice Captain Cesar stride in. His dark grey armor was highly polished and sported the red dragon rampant on the black field, the heraldry for Warwick.

"Forgive the intrusion, my lord and lady," the raspy, cold voice stated as the black paladin approached. "We have visitors."

* * *

Kailee remained within the protective walls as she ran up to the northeastern tower and arrived on the parapets to overlook the town and commotion of militia mustering to the northern side of town, drifting through the streets and out of sight. She watched as the sun fell below the distant peaks across the wide river opposite the main gate and behind her for any sign of activity. Soon, as darkness fell she felt her mother emerge beside her.

"Good evening, love," Bianka greeted as her arm wrapped around Kailee's waist.

"Hello, mother. What's going on?"

"Your friends have arrived. Gunnar and Tasha have been at The Onyx most of the evening as the others had been waiting in the forest."

Kailee eyed her mother. "Can I see them?"

"Allow your father to handle this right now. He'll let us know what's going on."

She nodded, then turned her attention back to the distant woodline. As time passed, she felt the approach of powerful energy as William morphed behind them, prompting them to turn.

"Kailee, I've allowed Lericanin to approach, if you wish."

"Of course."

"He'll meet you on the other side of the moat. I'll be watching over you." He disappeared again and she headed down the tower's staircase and eventually out into the bailey. Hurrying to the main gate as the guards opened it, she headed across the drawbridge as she noticed Lericanin sitting patiently astride his horse as William and Cesar stood nearby. A smile creased her face as she neared her friend who appeared nervous.

"Hello, Lericanin. How have you been?"

"Fine. How about you? We've been worried, no one knew what happened to you."

"I'm fine. I've been spending time with my family here. I've finally gotten a chance to know my mother and it's been great."

He nodded, still apprehensive. "We've come to take you back with us."

"Why?"

Adjusting his weight, he remained quiet for a moment.

"I'm fine. Tell the others that I'll see all of you in time but, you can't stay here. The Shadow Range is too dangerous."

He nodded as she approached to give him a hug. Wrapping their arms around one another, he spurred his horse and held onto her. Quickly, her body turned into the dark, wispy cloud and drifted back and away from him as Cesar charged forward to get between them and drew his sword. Lericanin reined in his horse who protested as William also stepped up.

"I think your visit is over now," the duke proclaimed. "You have my word that no one from Warwick will harrass you as you depart from the borders. As you return to your friends, Tasha will join you. Safe travels."

Lericanin, upset at the failed attempt eyed her desperately for a moment, turned and spurred his horse. She watched him until he rounded the distant homes and out of sight, Cesar in tow.
William strode over to her as Bianka appeared nearby.

"He loves you, my dear," her father stated as he wrapped his arm around her shoulders. "No one else would've braved these lands otherwise. I admire his devotion, but it will spell his doom if he doesn't learn to be more prudent."

Page 42 - A New Quest

Kailee noted a buzz about the castle after her family had fed and quickly headed to the great hall to find out what was going on. All of her mothers sat around the large table as William concentrated, his eyes half closed and staring ahead as she neared Nellina.

"What's going on?" she whispered.

"Apparently, your friends have been traveling with a delver who's on the trail of a great artifact," the soothing voice stated in her mind.

"Where?" she returned mentally.

"Right now, they're on a boat headed to the Sultanate of Tabriz, an island nation east of the Sergach Empire."

William's eyes opened as he broke his link and wiped his forehead. "They'll arrive within the hour," he informed.

"Hopefully it won't take them long to find it," Anita stated as she handed him his goblet.

"Soon. We'll let them get comfortable first, then I'll go and bring the delver and his nephew here and we'll have the remaining pieces to the key."

"Key to what?" Kailee inquired.

They looked up to her. "The treasure of a lifetime, darling. It seems that Mister Almir had found clues to finding five of the pieces of a key that opens a vault of knowledge. Centuries ago the greatest minds of the world had compiled an archive that spanned generations, peoples and history that's been lost to us. The vault that they created is in the mountains of the Macau lands where they felt it would be safe. Few knew where it may be located, but no one had been able to decipher the clues to finding the ten parts of the key that were scattered across the world. Almir Gharavond is quite a unique individual indeed."

"You mentioned that he had the remaining pieces, who has the rest?"

William smiled.

* * *

Shortly after he had teleported, William's body reappeared with two other men in a flash of blue light and dark smoke. Entranced, his captives levitated to seats as he motioned with his arms and sat them onto chairs at the table. With rope, Catherine and Sarah tied each and stood by as William approached and began going through the older man's backpack. Within moments, he pulled out a small bundle wrapped in deep blue velvet and carefully unwrapped it. Inside, Kailee noticed a simple cross of marblized tan stone with streaks of dark grey. Inset into four of the pockets carved into it's face were smooth, round stones - two golden, the remaining two of black stone.

"Anita, do you have the others?" William asked, excitement in his voice as he looked to her. She produced a pouch and opened it. Reaching in, she handed him the remaining five stones which he proceeded to place into the empty indentations until the key was completed. Kailee felt a humming in the air when the final piece was placed as they all watched for something to happen.
"Now all we have to do is find the vault." he stated.

"Let me go," Kailee volunteered, quickly attracting everyone's attention.

"I couldn't do that, darling. This could be a dangerous road, I couldn't risk your life. I should go."

"You can't travel in daylight, I can. I don't need a casket with me to rest either. I'll be fine. You have the power to keep tabs on me if anything happens and as soon as I find it, you'll know."

"This quest could take a long time."

"Time I've got. I've learned a lot this past year and I can take care of myself. I'll be fine, you'll see."

William sighed as he straightened, then looked at the others. One by one, they glanced to him and Kailee could tell they were voting and giving their opinions in secret. As he looked to Bianka, she shook her head.

"I don't like the thought of her being in a strange land alone. Maybe we could send a few of our men with her, just in case." After careful deliberation, William stepped over to Kailee, wrapping the assembled key into the blue velvet tightly.

"I know you are capable but, you must understand. I come from a time when a man's wives and children, especially his daughters, would be safely kept within his home as he did the dangerous work." He smiled and sighed. "It seems that times have changed. You remember the configuration and size of the key? Looking for the same in the face of the side of a hill isn't going to be easy. You may be away from here for some time. That land is full of dangers and I'm going to be keeping a link with you every waking moment. I'll assemble a group to send with you, you should get your things together."

Kailee gave him a big hug and kissed him on the cheek. "I won't let you down, I promise."

He grinned as she turned and ran to her room. After gathering clothes and other essentials, she headed back to the great hall where a unit of ten soldiers stood listening to their lord.

"And I want you to help her find this symbol. If anything happens to my daughter, I'll make sure you regret ever being born, understood?"

Each of them bowed, stern faced as their sergeant stepped up. "We won't fail you, my lord. That I vow."

As William walked up and took her hand, he concentrated and within moments, she felt the rush of planar travel until they suddenly stopped. Her eyes opened and she scanned the barren, orange rock and scrub around them within the desolate, dark canyon. Moonlight picked out a distant river that cut through from the north as it meandered around boulders and rushed passed them, down below.

"There should be enough wildlife to feed on and like I said, I'll only be a thought away." William reassured as he gave her another hug, then backed as the wives teleported the remaining members of the squad. They each approached and wished her well and soon all disappeared into the night.

"We should begin at sunrise, my lady," Conaran informed.

"Alright. Let's find shelter until then."

Climbing the steep rise, they soon found a good location behind a few large boulders and underneath a shallow overhang and she noticed the men adding their coats over their armor as they sat and waited.

Page 43 - Anew

After three months and many miles of exhaustive searching, the unit that was sent with Kailee was beginning to wear down. Searching for food other than the one day a week that she fed herself was spent hunting while the rest investigated nearly every inch of the river canyons that meandered through the range. Kailee allowed the group to rest and eat while she continued looking for any sign of the vault door that she knew had to be within reach soon. Crunching over rock strewn slopes, she listened to the hawk flying high overhead as he searched for dinner of his own. Rounding through a small stand of pine, her green eyes caught something in the rock face ahead. As she neared, sunlight picked out a familiar configuration within the center of the nearly sheer wall. Excited, she approached and ran her fingers over the indentations.

"I found it," she exclaimed, her voice echoing through the canyon.

Quickly, the men ran over to view the find that had eluded them for so long. "Where," the sergeant asked.

"Right there," she pointed, her index finger over the center of the carved cross, arms equidistant from the center.

Their tired eyes squinted in vain from deeply browned skin and thinner faces. "We trust your judgement, milady. Our Great Father has gifted you with abilities that we could only dream about. Our lord, your father will be pleased when he arrives," Conaran smiled.

* * *

As they rested nearby in the cool night, Kailee felt the familiar presence in her mind as William's silhouette emerged from the edge of the trees. They all rose as Kailee grabbed his hand and led him over to the find and pointed. "Right there."

He leaned forward. "I don't see it," hand raised and feeling the cool rock near her own fingers. "Are you certain?"

"Yes. Give me the key and I'll show you."

He eyed her for a quiet moment, then finally reached in his coat pocket and produced the velvet form. Pulling back the edges, he pulled out the large ornament and handed it to her. She turned and began studying the indentations, then placed the key inside the grooves, then stood back as a low, deep rumbling began to emanate from the hillside. A thin, light blue line began to cut a long and large seam around an enormous rectangular shape that pierced boulder, shrub and tree that connected to the wall. Everyone looked on in amazement as the doors ground a level path through accumulated earth and shoved it out of the way as they opened to reveal a deep, dark interior.
As she looked inside, a irresistible pull to something beyond view drew her inside the plane of the doorway.

"Kailee, wait," William tried to grab her arm but was stopped short by some invisible barrier. "It's been warded somehow."

She turned and watched as his hands lit up along the unseen wall in sparkling bluish lights that popped quietly as he studied the nature of the obstacle.

"Come back outside until we can figure a way in for both of us."

"I can't."

* * *

A soft rain fell on her deep, golden skin as brilliant, green eyes speckled with fine hints of silver opened to view the unfamiliar surroundings. She turned her head, laying on a soft, leather backpack to view the distant layered canyon wall of oranges and reds to see the low hanging grey clouds roil and spin along the meandering road cut by the river down below. Where was she? More importantly, who was she? Panic began to rise as she sat up, studying her simple clothing and then scanned the distance for any sign of civilization to find none. Turning, she pulled the backpack into her lap and untied the flap, then rummaged through the clothing neatly folded inside to find a green, hooded cloak which she pulled out and put on. Retying the backpack closed, she shouldered it then reached back and pulled the hood over her fiery orange hair. She sighed as she looked north and south for any clue as to direction she should begin and noticed the river seemed to open to the southwest and began climbing down towards the grey-blue flow.

Within a week and a half, she finally reached the doorway to the canyon that she had woken in to see the dark brown hills and bleak dunes that stretched to the horizon in all directions. The only respite was the green that bordered the river that continued west which would certainly lead to a town sooner or later.
By that night, her nose found a large grouping of people and animals which she headed towards. Climbing over the sand dune, she noticed their campfires and tents circling one another and the camels lined up nearby as dogs began barking. She had been noticed by noses as keen as her own. Crouching down, she hoped to find a better approach as another, closer scent caught her attention which prompted her to turn.

"You'll only find trouble there, friend," the deep, kind voice stated in Kemal. "I however greet you in the name of the Creator and offer you shelter."

She stood. "I thank you, sir," she returned in his language. "Actually, I was also hoping that you could help me."

"I will certainly do all that I can. Come, sit," he motioned nearby.

As she neared, she noticed his raggedly clothing, thick beard and dishevelled hair. The tall walking stick and sandals were in good shape however. He sat after she did and lifted his waterskin, opened the cork and handed it to her.

"Thank you," she said, then took a long drink and handed it back to him. "What is your name?"

"Forgive my insult, child. I am one of the Creator's voices, Salah."

"Pleasure. I wish I could give you my name but, I can't remember anything before I woke up eleven days ago."

He lowered the waterskin and set it beside him. "Then I believe that you were led to me by the All Compassionate for he will help you in this search." He lowered his head and quietly mouthed a prayer that she could actually hear in his mind. After a few moments, he looked back at her. "You should travel north beyond the Hakkari and once you arrive at the green lands, turn northwest. In time you will find what you seek."

She studied the gaunt face in the moonlight for a moment. "I appreciate your help."

"It is why I was born. May He guide your steps and keep you safe."

She rose and followed his instructions and endured two months of traveling through the unending desert to finally see scrubland turn eventually into prairie and then to forest feeding on whatever she could find along the way.

Page 44 - Finally Answered

Dew softly covered the cloaked and hooded girl laying at the base of the hickory that she had found the night before. Long days of traveling lonely roads was beginning to take its toll as the sign of even merchant caravans was becoming scarce. Waystations had given her some indication of when she actually arrived within the borders of the Kuzomen Empire as the dialect clearly changed with the farmers. The feeding ground was abundant with various types of life as well as the country that she had traveled through the past two-and-a-half months since leaving the desert sands of the great Hakkari. Comfortable, she lay there and listened to the sounds of the pigeons and owls as they talked to neighbors in the distance - the many other languages that she didn't understand.
Suddenly, the warmth from the depths rose and began to make her uncomfortable, prompting her to sit up. This visit wasn't by someone that she could see in the physical world and as they neared, the heat rose and the greens and browns around her were clouded by a reddish fume.
"Hello, my darling," the dark voice called from within the fog.

Her heart rate began to race. "Who are you?"

"You've forgotten me already, I'm disappointed. You have no idea how that hurts me, my daughter. Many had feared that you were dead, I'm glad that I found you first."

"You didn't answer my question."

"I am the one that has cared for you since your birth, I've breathed life within you, my love. There is no one who has watched over you as closely as I."

She began to notice the glowing yellow eyes of flame as they emerged from within a swirling reddness, causing her to slide backwards.

"There is no need for you to fear me. I am here to remind you of who you are as well as the powers that you've been born with."

"I'm doing well enough on my own, get away from me," she jumped up and ran.

"No matter how far you run, you cannot escape me," his voice followed closely on her heels as she sprinted through the forest, wind blasting her ears and giving her some respite from his continuous advances.

"Kailee, you will regret this moment forever! I vow it!" he screamed.

Meandering through the tall columns of brown, she flew as fast as her legs could carry her. Animals burst from their seclusion in every direction and from the direction she ran, after she had passed in many instances. Soon, she approached the edge of a lake which she began sprinting around on the open shoreline, speeding her flight and nearly bowling over a mother black bear and her young. Trying as best as she could to keep her northwesterly direction, she re-entered the forest on the far side and kept running and for some time when she finally began to slow, then stop to catch her breath. Turning, she scanned the woods to see and feel only the wild. He was gone.

That evening, she arrived at another river, boughs reflecting dull, dappled shades of orange as the sun fell. Opening herself to the area, she scanned with her senses and found no one, then proceeded to disrobe and step into the water. Totally immersed, she enjoyed the quiet flow of the river past her darker hide and beyond to some unknown destination. Rising, she swam for a while, allowing the quiet rush and breeze through the surrounding dark green canopy that arched over the river in some areas to carry her. Nearly as perfect as when the elves ruled these lands.
As darkness fell, she swam back to her clothes and climbed up to air dry in the night, listening to the predators, both land and airborne seeking their prey.

"Beautiful out here, isn't it," the soft, female voice startled her as she turned to notice the dull glowing aura around the gorgeous woman who crouched nearby. Striking ice-blue eyes smiled as Kailee also noticed the soft glistening of long, golden hair and the enchanted field plate that she wore as well as the battle hammer strapped to her back. "I always loved quiet walks in the forest when I was your age, it was so peaceful."

Her demeanor, speech and presence almost made Kailee cry. "Who...who are you?" she swallowed hard.

"I am your true friend, Kailee. I've been sent to help protect you against one who would claim your life and soul if given the chance. He is bent on your destruction or domination for some reason and has been for some time. But, do not worry, you are not alone any more. That I promise on pain of eternal separation."

Kailee's brow furrowed. "I don't understand. Who sent you?"

"They are the elders who rule the world. They tend to the natural flow of magic as well as life itself, interjecting when necessary or when asked by their faithful on personal matters. Some time ago, you asked for help and guidance, and they've heard you. I was sent, as I said, to protect and guide you from now on. Your friends are going to meet you in Karlovo when you arrive."

She took a moment to process all the information. "I only remember brief flashes of things, people and places but, I haven't been able to remember their names."

"The closest to you are Lericanin, Alister, Sceva and the others have returned home or have been taken to their resting place. These three and others will be waiting for you when we get there. Go with them, they will remind you of what was lost and help in times of need. They need what you've learned as well as your destinies for this life are intertwined."

Nodding, she couldn't take her eyes from the angel that smiled warmly. "I don't mean to question, but aren't you also in danger from Him?"

"I couldn't defeat him on my own but, we are not alone either. He cannot touch you but, he can send his minions after you and has formed a small group that hunts you as we speak. We shouldn't linger in any one place for too long. Get your rest and I will watch over you. In the morning, we should as I said and continue on to Karlovo."

It took some time for Kailee to fall asleep, but once she did it seemed as if her rest was short lived as morning came in an instant. As she pushed herself up, she wiped sleep from her eyes and looked around to see the shimmering woman standing nearby who turned to her.

"Good morning, Kailee. How did you sleep?"

"Fine. Did you rest?"

"I don't need to sleep," she chuckled. "My rest is beyond physical now and forever."

"What should I call you," she asked, standing.

Her friend told her, "I would ask that you not speak that name to anyone else".

"Of course."

Kailee concentrated and teleported to the opposite bank, then moved on as they walked through the forest. "I'm still not sure as to what has happened, I can't remember anything before waking in the mountains east of the Arguvan Sultanate."

"You entered a cave of knowledge and gained what lay inside. It was only natural that your mind had to heal itself after being inundated with so much. Your memories will come back in time," her friend informed as they walked through the sporadic streams of golden light that pierced the clusters of leaves above. "It would also be a good idea that you take a new name to keep our enemies from tracking you within towns."

Kailee thought for a moment. "How about Lisa," she stated the first name that came to mind.

"That's fine," her guide nodded.

Page 45 - Change Realized

Lisa, as she was now referring to herself, washed her hands and face near a rocky, shallow stream in the warm hours of early evening. Her brilliant green eyes scanned the far bank and through the distant birch to the northwest and smelled the approach of four riders. She stood and in the blink of an eye, reappeared on the far bank then headed through the light forest to intercept them. As she neared the road, they reined in their horses. All younger, their eyes lit up in unison.

"I was wondering if you might tell me what the nearest town is called?" Her eyes scanned younger faces as they stared. Her brow furrowed, she knew she was using the right language. "I apologize if I've mispronounced some of the words, or are you not Kuzin?"

One of the riders smiled, nudged his horse forward and lowered his hand. "I would be honored to welcome you first to the town of Rujen, my lady," he returned in Kuzin.

"Hold, Isaac, I saw her first," the first on the left stated, prompting his horse forward and tried to cut between his friend and Lisa. "Besides, Gertrude is waiting for you, is she not?"

"Neither of you are going to take this daughter of Elminoir anywhere," a third proclaimed as he and the fourth rode up and began pulling the others behind them. Lisa backed away as the quartet began arguing and fighting amongst themselves. Insults became heated as she contemplated interfering, then thought better of it as bodies hit the hard packed road and daggers gleamed in the sunlight while their horses trotted from the flailing mass of arms and legs. She looked on in horror as they each began stabbing frantically, wrestling one another's arms and cried from angry wounds. Within moments, all four lay dead.

"What in the world?" she asked, feeling the presence of her friend by the tingling up her spine.

"Do you have a scarf that you can wear over the lower parts of your face?"

Lisa nodded, still in disbelief. "Why did they kill one another, I don't understand. That is madness."

"You just answered your own question. There will be many who cannot handle to look at you without needing to possess you and will do all they can to realize that obsession."

After rummaging in her backpack, Lisa produced a scarf and tied it around her mouth, then raised the edge to over her nose, then shouldered the pack and hurried away to the distant gates of Rujen after pulling the hood over her fiery hair that shimmered in the waning daylight.

Once arriving at the gate, she noticed the guard who stood, leaning on the stone wall inside the killing zone, brown eyes watched her as he ate an apple. She approached as he straightened. "I noticed four bodies in the road moments ago. It appeared that they had a quarrel that got out of hand," she kept the reason to herself. "Their horses are still nearby."

He nodded, "Alright, I'll see to it."

She continued into the narrow street, busy with the daily traffic that eventually led her to an inn. It would be nice to sleep in a bed for the night, a luxury that she hadn't felt since waking on the hard, rocky ground in the mountains. Pushing the main door open, she walked into the bustling voices which some quieted near the narrow alley that she walked through to get to the innkeeper. Around barmaids carrying pitchers and patronage walking by, she approached the older, heavyset man. His tanned, hairy arms displayed well defined muscles as his heavy jowled face turned to her, brown eyes reflecting candlelight. "How may I help you, young lady?"

"I was hoping to get a room," she stated.

"Just one?"

Her head cocked to the left. "Yes."

He grinned, "Sometimes people come in and represent groups that haven't arrived yet. Four bronze."

Slender, tanned fingers reached into a small pouch and found the coins, then handed them to him. She turned and noticed the minstrels playing in the far corner near the hearth, appearing as a father with his son and daughter playing a lively tune on various stringed instruments.

"Here you go," the innkeeper handed her a key, then pointed up the stairwell to her left. "Second door on the right."

She nodded, then climbed to the awaiting bed as her mind still haunted by the incident in the road tried to rationalize the hows and whys. As she unlocked the door and stepped in, she noticed the simply padded, rectangular pillow within the wooden frame. A small table next to it held a wash basin and small vase with yellow flowers standing within that pointed to the curtained window above. Pounding closed, the oaken door pushed out the tumult from the great room below as she walked over to the bed and sat down, then pulled the scarf down and untied it.

Emerging from the empty space to her left, the armored beauty looked at her. "You should get your rest, they're still not far from us and will close to these gates by morning. We should leave before then and save this town's inhabitants from being tortured."

"Is there no way to stop them?"

"They will be stopped, don't fear. Right now we have to get you to Karlovo. Once we cross the Vijose' we'll be able to put more distance between us."

Lisa nodded, then laid down, sighing. Her eyes watched as the angel approached and sat on the edge of the bed beside her. "I promise you that not every day will be spent running, but you must keep yourself from straying from your path. You are still vulnerable to the life that He wanted you to join him in. It's going to be up to you which road you choose but, know this, your choices not only help or harm you, they also affect those around you. Keep that in mind."

She smiled as she closed her eyes.

* * *

"Lisa, get up," she heard in her mind which startled Lisa as her eyes opened to the dark room. As she sat up, she felt the presence of the two evil forms that glided down the hallway to her door. She jumped up and unsheathed her sword as the door exploded into shards that showered the room, causing her to turn and shield herself, then spin to see her attackers. Black forms, jagged edged swords in their hands, rushed as she parried, then maneuvered left, stabbing the first in the chest. Shrieking, the wraith reeled from her as the second blade swung angrily. Showers of blue sparks highlighted their long dark robes as she blocked and swung on the second and caught him in the shoulder, cutting cloth and ethereal body. As he dropped in pain, she dodged the first, striking him in the hood and cast an explosion of dark essence as they both dissipated.

"Our master will avenge usss."

She turned and sprinted down the hallway and stairs to escape into the quiet street. Turning right, she continued on to the northern gate, now closed to traffic as she could see the large oaken doors barred in the torchlight. As she arrived at the corner of the last building, her eyes scanned left and found a stairway that rose to the walkway along the curtain wall which she quickly ran to. Leaping stairs three at a time, she dodged the sleepy eyes of the tower guards and leaped between the merlons and disappeared into the night.

"I thought you said they wouldn't arrive until morning," she wondered aloud as she raced through the open field dimly picked out in the moonlight.

"These two arrived a short time ago from the north. He summoned them to try and keep you from escaping. Now that they've been vanquished, the group will press on and hopefully leave Rujen alone."

Lisa pressed on through the remaining hours of darkness until daylight peeked over the horizon and announced a new day.

Page 46 - Karlovo Reunion

After running for the past three weeks through small hamlets and large towns, Lisa and her friend finally arrived at their destination within the walls of Karlovo. Rich from the merchant caravans that started and ended their journeys to turn over or pick up goods from barges that coursed the long, busy river, the town of several thousand boasted two large marketplaces as well as docks and warehouses that fronted the Vijose'. Lisa walked through the morning traffic after getting a room at the Wooden Sword on the northern part of town the night before. Still veiled behind her scarf and hood, she watched the crowd that traded and strolled amongst vendors carts and stalls.

"They will be coming through here soon," her friend's voice informed mentally. "You'll know them when you see them," she mentioned, intercepting the question before it was asked.

Lisa smiled as her eyes watched people go on about their daily lives, totally oblivious to the evil that was headed this way hellbent on destruction. Deep blue eyes of a little girl, not more than a year old watched her curiously from her mother's arm and Lisa could sense the wonder in the little girl's mind as she smiled and her tiny, pudgy hand reached out to her. Smiling, she hoped that she could find her friends soon and keep this young one from danger.

"It gladdens me that you've found this moment, Lisa. I find hope in our future together."

Lowering, her green eyes readjusted to the sea of heads and hats who coursed to the right and left from beyond her corner behind the wooden stall until soon, she noticed a large man quickly making his way through the crowd. Long black hair was pulled back into a ponytail and the tattoo on his forehead sparked a memory. Several others that followed, guiding their horses towards the Wooden Sword and stopped as they left their steeds with the trailing fighter. She slowly approached as she studied his tanned face, thin, brown beard and brown eyes as he watched his friends disappear into the inn. He turned to scan the crowd around her as she stopped and tried to remember his name.

"That's Alister," the angelic voice stated.

Vague flashes of scenes and moments raced through her mind, little of any immediate value.

"Kailee," he mouthed as his face lit up. Handing the reins to another female that she didn't recognize, he slowly walked forward as Lisa watched her jog into the inn. "How have you been?"

She nodded. "Fine, you?"

He grinned and sighed, arms outstretched as he approached which prompted her to back from him.
"Sorry, I guess this is going to take you a while, he said it would."

"He who?"

"Bernard, a jura that met us in the tavern while we ate breakfast. He told us that you're in danger and we need to get you away from here as fast as possible."

Nodding, "My name is Lisa. We've determined that my old name isn't safe any longer," she informed as the others emerged from the main door, excited. She also soon recognized Gunnar as the aged veteran approached and also tried to hug her, then was disappointed. "We should get going," she stated flatly.

Lericanin nodded, "Mount up".

"I'm Selyria, you can ride with me," the stranger who had retrieved the others stated as she climbed into the saddle and reached down her hand. Lisa noticed that the horse didn't agree as it side-stepped from her until she overtook it and hopped up behind the only other female in the group. Placing her hands on her host's waist, they spurred their mounts and sped through the busy streets and eventually out of the northern gate. She noticed as a half-elf rode ahead with Gunnar to their flank while Lericanin and Sceva kept close to them in the center and Alister trailed behind.

Lisa tried her best to remember who was with the group when last she saw them and couldn't narrow down when that actually was. The amnesia was becoming frustrating as they passed farms surrounded by horse drawn plows in large fields and soon the distant forest while passing carvans of loaded wagons headed the opposite direction. Eventually, they settled on a place to camp for the night and Lisa sat on a flanking tree that bordered the southeastern corner of the clearing. Lericanin started a fire within a rounded border of stones that someone else had left long ago, and began mixing ingredients in a large, iron pot while Sceva and Selyria situated their gear on the ground nearby.

"How long have I been gone," she finally asked.

"Over a year," Lericanin informed quietly, intent on his concoction.

She chuckled in amazement. "I've forgotten so much. It's been frustrating today trying to remember things that I should know."

"It will come back in time," Sceva informed as the older knight unstrapped his armor and began cleaning the various pieces. "Just be patient."

"My friend keeps telling me the same thing. She also told me that we needed to meet in Karlovo almost a month ago. Where are we headed?"

"We're going north to help Faer take care of a personal matter," Lericanin informed as he crouched nearby. "What friend?"

"What?" Lisa asked, distracted.

"You said that your friend told you to meet us in Karlovo. Where is she?"

"Oh. She's unseen and has been keeping me informed of trouble for some time now. Who knows what I would've encountered without her guidance. Or if I would even be here now."

Selyria leaned forward, curious. "What does this friend look like?"

"Beautiful."

She nodded as Sceva and Lericanin eyed Lisa for a moment. "So, he's answered you then," Sceva inquired, smiling.

"Who?"

"Yaeby. I remember when you and Tia used to visit his churches after we left Baden and you were always frustrated, saying that you never got anything in return. Your patience has paid off finally. I'm happy for you."

Lisa stared blankly. "She told me that she represented many, not one."

His smile faded. "Curious."

"As long as she is a help and not a hindrance, I assume it's a blessing nonetheless," Lericanin mused. She could tell that they were a bit confused and she was beginning to question things herself.

'What is it you wished to know,' her friend asked mentally as the others went back to their tasks at hand.

'Just trying to understand their curiousity, that's all.'

'They care about you.'

'I meant about you.'

'I've told you where I've come from and who I represent.'

'It's not that important as long as it's not Him, I guess.'

'I would never represent anyone as devious as that one. All he serves is himself and destroys lives for a living, I don't need to tell you that.'

'Sorry. There's just so much going on right now.'

'It's alright, I understand.'

She watched as Faer returned with several rabbits, cleaned and handed the muscled forms to the cook, then sat down to Lericanin's right and set his bow against his backpack. "Smells good," Lisa mentioned.

"Just too bad that you never enjoyed it."

"Never?"

"You feed in a different manner." Blue eyes turned to her. "Where did you go that you had to travel for so long from the southeast?"

"I woke up in a river canyon in the lands of the Macau, northeast of the Arguvan Sultanate and within the past five months or so, made my way here. Running most of the way. I don't remember how I got there or why. I was kind of hoping that one of you could shed some light on that for me."

He shrugged, "Sorry. All my champion told me was that you were far to the southeast and in need of our help. We've been traveling almost as long as you have to get to Karlovo."

"I'm glad you did."

He smiled and nodded, then continued on with dinner.

Page 47 - Elena

Lisa rested, staring into the fire as it slowly consumed the wood placed into it shortly after dinner. The past two weeks on the road had been good for her as being with the group again began to remind her of things that they had done together. Not all of them memories that she couldn't have lived without. She closed her eyes and tried to sleep.
Lericanin and Alister were on watch but, they were soon joined by two more that Lisa could smell approaching from the road. She perked up and pointed her nose their way and also picked up on their intentions - burglary. Quickly, she moved towards Lericanin and slid up behind the unsuspecting guard who turned his head suddenly.

"Sorry," she whispered. "We have visitors."

"Where," he quietly asked.

Without the ability to see in the dark, she knew she couldn't point them out so, placed her hands on his strong arms and guided the bow that he held to their right and down a bit. She then backed away and he fired. Speeding to its destination, the arrow caught the first square as he pitched backwards, screaming. His friend crouched in shock and Lisa watched as the camp awoke to the voice crying out in the forest. Alister and Gunnar sped through the underbrush to the target and attacked the second as he tried to run. Lisa burst from her position and ran towards the road and their horses who jumped in shock at the sudden rush of activity. Another cry and the sounds of combat announced the duo had reached their prey and soon defeated him, capturing the thief, then dragged him back to their camp where the first lay under Faer's care.

"Who sent you," Gunnar interrogated, his foot on the second's chest. Lisa saw fear in the man's brown eyes. His gangly body squirmed as he tried to fight being killed.

"No one."

"Then what are you doing out here?" Gunnar's boot pressed as he glared.

"We saw the camp and thought it might be an easy picking."

Lericanin, Alister and Sceva chuckled.

"How far is the nearest town," Sceva asked.

"Elena is only a day's ride north."

"Then we'll turn them into the local magistrate," Sceva announced as Gunnar turned to him.

"No, I say we gut them and leave them for the dogs."

"Gunnar, step off. These two are under arrest and we're going to turn them in."

In a huff, the aged veteran walked away, slamming his sword back into its sheath.

"We can tie them up until we leave," Lericanin suggested as Alister retrieved a coil of rope. "How is his friend, Faer?"

"He'll survive."

Lisa watched as the men of the group secured their prisoners and continued on with their watch as she returned to her spot near the fire and went to sleep.

After breakfast, the group mounted up and rode on the road to the north until finally spying the wall that lined the horizon from the river to the distant treeline. Across the fields, they noticed farms and mills busy with the day's activity and Lericanin stopped the group.

"I think we should go in and see what we can procure as far as passage on a ship. It would be a lot quicker and save our horses. I need to visit the church while we're here."

"I can do that," Sceva volunteered. "I need to turn these two in anyway. I can meet you at the docks."

"The rest of us can hit the marketplace and buy more vegetables and such for the trip," Alister suggested. After agreeing, they quickly rode to the southern gate and divided once entering the walls.
Lisa rode with Selyria as they followed Alister, Faer and Raven, the third quiet female that Lisa had felt uncomfortable around since they had met. Her unusual scent announced the lycanthrope and she noticed that Raven's presence made most wary during their journey thus far. She had been giving Sceva a lot of insights into his other side as they had been spending most of their free time together.
After gathering their supplies, they headed to the docks and met Sceva who waited on the long wooden walkway near a barge whose crew loaded crates and other supplies into the center of the flat vessel. As they dismounted, Lisa felt the darkness rise within the ethereal from the south. They were coming. She stood for a moment, staring through the tanned dockworkers, horse drawn carts and wealthy merchants overseeing their business as the leader of His hunters slowly came into focus.

She turned to Alister who eyed her curiously. "Where is Lericanin?"

"He's probably still at the church, why?"

"Go get him, now. They're coming and we have to leave."

He nodded apprehensively, then ran through the crowd and disappeared as Selyria stepped up. "What's going on," she asked.

"Those who are hunting us are approaching the city," she looked beyond the brunette and eyed Sceva. "How soon will they be ready to leave?"

"They're finishing securing the cargo now. Any moment."

"Get our things on board and tell the captain to be ready as soon as Lericanin and Alister arrive."

Sceva nodded, then turned and walked the gangway onto the barge as Selyria led their horses onto the deck. Lisa walked over to the gangway as her heart began to race. 'I hate boat travel,' she thought.

'You'll be okay. Just take that time to get some rest,' her guide suggested. 'This trip won't take that long.'

Lisa nodded as she soon noticed the pair of fighters approach through the crowd as Alister continued onto the boat.

"I'm going to stay and confront these individuals, you go on."

Lisa stared blankly. "To what purpose?"

"Slow them down and keep you safe. Get onboard and take care of yourself."

She noted his determination as he grinned. "You're not throwing your life away like this, I won't let you."

"I'll be fine, Arhus guides my hammer."

"You won't be fine, these individuals that are coming won't stop for you. Their leader may hesitate for some sport, but that will be it. You can't do this on your own. Either you're coming with us or none of us are leaving."

Lericanin's face melted as he stared at her, confidence washing into the river that lapped up on the pilings below their feet. She noticed the crew untie the mooring lines and throw them to the deck as they neared the gangway. "What's it going to be?"

He acquiesced and followed her onto the barge and they were soon underway as Lisa headed straight into the longhouse on the port side of the barge for her hammock, balled up inside of it's narrow embrace and went to sleep.

Page 48 - Encounter in Arnsberg

Once departing the barge and trekking for many days northwest, the group headed towards the kingdom of Namur. Still within the Kuzomen Empire, the kingdom sat astride the Valga Sea that divided them from their Astaran neighbors whose navies had fought great battles during the sixteen year war that had ended nearly sixty years ago.
Lisa hunted that evening for herself and the group, taking down a large buck. Once she drained it and sat back allowing her body to revitalize, she felt the emergence of a familiar presence. Turning to her right and scanning the nearby forest, she noticed the well dressed man approach, tears in his steel-blue eyes. Lisa stood and watched as he neared.

"Kailee, praise the gods you're alive," William stated. "I have been in darkness since that day that you entered that cave and I lost the feeling of you." His arms outstretched she allowed him to close and hugged him also. Soon, as her eyes opened she noticed six beautiful women approach and each wrap their arms around her in turn, Bianka for the longest.

"Where have you been," her mother asked.

"On the road from the Macau lands for the past six months. Its taken me some time to remember everything, but it's been coming back slowly. Do you still perform your plays on the weekends?"

"No," William stated. "The local king attacked Warwick and razed it to the ground, we're now living elsewhere and I would prefer that you not try and find us. You're better off where you are now. I believe that we've attracted His disdain and I don't want my daugther to share our fate, whatever that might be."

Lisa couldn't believe her ears until she gave it some thought. That sounded exactly like Him.

"We need to get back, but I couldn't pass up the opportunity to come and see you for a moment. Take care of yourself, Kailee."

"You too." She gave them all a hug and kiss then watched as they vanished from sight. Her heart sank a bit as she realized that her presence and denial of His advances had jeopardized many more than she had previously thought. As she sighed, she turned and noticed Faer standing not far from her as if frozen. Lisa grinned, picked up the deer that she had killed and walked to him.

"Those were my family that you saw," she explained in Elvish. He eyed her for a moment.

"How did you learn my language?"

"I don't know, I've been taught many things over the years," she lied as they headed back to camp.

* * *

After another week of riding, they entered the small hamlet of Arnsberg. Lisa noticed the sleepy border town as the quiet streets contained the lively families inside their respective homes having dinner and discussing the day's events while the large group of riders headed through the marketplace and found the inn that commanded one corner. As she dismounted and stepped up to allow Selyria down, her eyes drifted across the open square to notice the open front door of a church. Dim candlelight from within the foyer picked out a man who stood watching them in long robes with a pewter mug in his hands. His vestment and necklace told of a man of Arhus and her nervousness rose as his eyes never left her as she walked quickly with the group out of sight and into the bustling tavern. Sir William held the door open for her as she headed inside. He had also been riding with the group for over a year and had met them in a port city of the Arguvan Sultanate.
After getting a room with Selyria, she headed up to the bed and laid down as the rest returned downstairs for a hot meal. She only hoped that the priest kept to his own church that night.

As dreams took her, Lisa rested for some time until hearing her guardians voice, "Wake up".
Her eyes opened as she cleared her mind and focused on the danger that didn't take long to find. Concentrating, her mind found the two men approaching, then one split off to walk up to the door and she could sense his fervor and heard the prayer as he sighed. Quickly, she jumped up, unsheathed her sword and waited alongside the wall near the door as it slowly opened, allowing a stream of widening orange light to spill inside. He stepped in, sword in hand and she attacked. Striking his sword arm, she then kicked him in the chest, knocking the older priest against the wall as the innkeeper shouted and ran back down the stairs.
Rising, the priest glared, 'You'll not stain His land any longer, beast," he spat then renewed his attack. Parrying, Lisa struck again hitting the aged cleric across his left shoulder as he tried to cast a spell, interrupting him. She then charged and pushed him out through the second story window, shattering glass exploded into the night and showered the body and flagstone below. She turned as Selyria stared from under her covers on the top bunk.

"Meet me on the northern side of town," Lisa instructed then ran out of the room, down the stairs and into the night. Pushing herself, the sounds of horses on the opposite side of the tavern arriving to the murder scene made her hasten her escape down the quiet road and into the forest beyond until reaching a bridge where she headed into the treeline and waited for the group to arrive.

As the sounds of owls and gentle rush of the river nearby, she heard the thunder of hooves approaching and she stepped out to see the group finally arrive, the patrol not far behind them. Reining in their protesting steeds, she quickly hopped on behind Selyria and they spurred their mounts again across the bridge then turned into the forest and rode for some time, hoping to hide from their pursuers. Finally reaching a small clearing, Lericanin rode up beside them, Sceva behind.

"What happened," he asked.

"The priest of the local church got the innkeeper to unlock our door and he was going to kill me," Lisa informed. "There was nothing else I could do. I didn't want him attacking Selyria by mistake if I escaped."

"A priest wouldn't have attacked her by mistake, he could tell the difference," Sceva assured, then sighed.

Lisa relaxed as the night muffled their beating hearts as well as the horses hard breathing. She waited for the verdict on what they would do next.

"So things like this have gone on for some time then," Sir William inquired.

"Yes. We're used to it," Alister answered, eyes still on the alert for the guards.

Selyria finally spoke up, "He did sneak in there and I heard him say that he would be glad to rid her stain from His land finally and I also remember him calling Lisa a beast. There was no rationalizing with that man."

Lericanin nodded, "Another blind servant who judges with his biases instead of his heart. We'll keep moving northwest from here." They all followed single-file through the dark woods for the next day and a half before establishing their next campsite.

Page 49 - Confrontation in Uker

Lisa sat that evening near the docks of the city of Uker on the shores of the Valga as the evening sun cast an orange and red glow on the distant, puffy clouds and masts of ships cast long shadows on their decks and reflections on the waves. Warehouses and offices now closed, the lazy evening calmed her spirits as Sir William walked up and sat down nearby on the step above. She could feel his eyes on her and ignored them for a time until glancing to her left.

"Sorry," his brown eyes sheepishly lowered.

"It's alright. What's on your mind?"

He fidgeted for a moment, nervous hands wringing in his lap. "You're really half-vampire?"

"Yes. Does that bother you?" Her mind scanned the area and made sure no one was nearby to overhear their conversation and found none within ear shot.

"Not any longer. I've taken this time during our trip to get to know you and I'm baffled. I was always taught that vampires stole into homes and did terrible things to children and such. It's amazing how wrong they are about your kind."

"Priests only teach what they've been taught. However, their bias isn't unfounded, there are more of my kind who do those things than not, unfortunately."

"How could something like this happen?"

"I've been asking that question for most of my life. If you have any insights, please indulge me."

"I wish I did," his eyes drifted to the distant water.

"You were in love once?"

Calm became emotional as he glanced to her again. "Yes. Aerial was captured nearly two years ago and sold into slavery. I and several other knights of Ruse tracked them to the Macau lands and found most of our family and loved ones dead. After we slaughtered the slavers, I buried her and sent the rest home with the survivors," he reminisced as his eyes glistened. "I met your friends some time afterwards."

"I'm sorry for your loss."

He grinned and wiped his cheeks.

* * *

As the group awoke to a new day, Lisa lay in the comfortable bed and felt the dark presence slowly make its way into the town from the southeast. They had to get moving. She rose and eyed Selyria as her roomate slept and contemplated how best to rouse her. Gently, she touched her shoulder and shook her.
"Selyria, we have to get up."

Brown eyes glanced up as the mage sighed. "Why?"

"They're coming."

Quickly, they both came to life and gathered their things as they then headed to each of the other rooms and knocked, waking their compatriots. She headed downstairs and out through the front door to see Gunnar doing his excercises, suspended from the porch roof.

"You need to gather your things, Gunnar," she informed.

He dropped, muscles tensed from his normal routine and glistened in the morning light. "Them again?"

She nodded, then turned to gaze down the street slowly filling with daily traffic and tried to discern how much time they had. Only one of this pursuing group was in the town, the rest were making their way around to the north side. As the group exited the tavern, gear and weapons shouldered, Lisa felt the presence quickly moving along the rooftops to their right as an arrow sped from thin air and struck Selyria's arm. On alert, Lisa concentrated and followed the assassin until emitting a blast that caught him offguard and made him visible as he stumbled. Raven and Alister both charged the door to the building that he was on as Faer, Lericanin and Gunnar fired their bows and civilians around them screamed and ran into buildings or stood in awe at the battle unfolding before them.
Again, their assailant disappeared and Lisa fired another mental blast that hit him, sending him reeling as another volley zipped towards him, some finding their mark. The dark form turned and faced them, jumped from the high roof to land on the ground near them, daggers in hand as the group around her unsheathed weapons.
His glowing eyes grinned and in an instant, the loud explosion and flash of light was the last thing Lisa felt.

Page 50 - Sojourn on the Valga

The gentle rocking and lingering nausea woke Lisa to what she quickly deduced was herself on the boat that they had chartered for their northerly trek from Uker. What she didn't know was how she survived the blast and got onto the ship. Laying within the hammock, she opened her eyes to the dim, creaking berthing area and could sense Faer, Lericanin, Sceva and Sir William suspended nearby in their own hanging beds. Farther away were the crew as well as Selyria, Gunnar, Alister and Raven. Stretching, she felt the soreness in her chest, right arm and the pounding headache that rudely announced themselves. She sighed and relaxed, concentrated on the pain and allowed her own learned abilities wash them away. Hopefully, they would be less one antagonist now.

After four days of self imposed hibernation, the sounds of activity on the deck above announced a stop as Lisa looked around to see Selyria and Gunnar talking nearby.

"Where are we," she asked.

They both turned to eye her, their features highlighted by the nearby candle suspended on a supporting post. "The captain announced a stop for fresh water, apparently he didn't have time to supply enough before our flight from Uker," Selyria informed as they walked over. "How are you feeling?"

"Fine. I'll be better once I get off this ship."

They both smiled. "Well get up then and go out with us," Gunnar invited as he finished strapping on his armor and swordbelt.

Lisa pushed herself up and strapped on her own swordbelt, wrapped her cloak around her and pulled up the hood, then headed out of the berthing area. "How is everyone else doing?"

"Fine. It was close but, we were able to save everyone after the fight," Selyria informed as they maneuvered around crewmembers gathering gear and weapons for their trek to a river or pond. "I almost lost you and Sir William."

"Really," she stopped and eyed the brunette.

Selyria nodded.

As they made their way up to the deck, Lisa noticed through the activity a couple standing off to the side. Her long, curly black hair was shaved from the left side of her head with only a long, braided line with black, grey and white beads woven into it falling down on that side. Her violet eyes caught Lisa's attention as well as the red aura that surrounded her denoting an essence user. Close at her side stood a handsome fighter, the beautiful flamberge across his back told that much. They both watched as Lericanin led the group down the side of the boat into the water and then wade to shore. Lisa headed into the forest with them.

"Good to see you up, finally," Lericanin smiled as he placed his left arm around her shoulders briefly.

"Good to be up. I take it he committed suicide?"

"We're pretty sure," Sceva interjected as the cool of the morning invited the walk through the oak forest. "There was no sign of him as we woke up and began carrying everyone into the ship. That doesn't mean however that he didn't teleport somewhere else."

"We'll keep our eyes open anyway," Lericanin said as they maneuvered through the thick underbrush to finally approach a rocky hillside and a cave entrance.

Lisa immediately smelled the odor of something large within wafting on the breeze just as the sides of the yawning entrance stepped out in the forms of earth elementals. As both guardians swung and tried to grapple with Alister and Faer, the group each began attacking in support. Arrows flew, swords and hammer pummeled as spells each knocked small chunks of earth from their enemies who kept up the assault until finally the one standing over Alister crumbled into a pile of dirt and rock that buried him underneath. Faer ran backwards, firing arrows into the man-like beast as Lericanin, William and Sceva attacked its flanks and soon destroyed the elemental, then all ran over to begin recovering their buried comrade.

"I'm alright," the farmer's son declared as he brushed the dirt from his armor and hair. Lisa stepped over and touched him, using a prosaic to clean him within an instant. He turned to her. "Thank you."

"There's something larger and more dangerous inside, we don't have time to waste."

They all looked into the cave's dark interior.

"I hate it when you say that," Alister clarified as he peered into another cave, remembering the past few that he'd investigated. None of them favorable experiences.

"You'd rather she didn't warn us," Gunnar asked.

"Well, what are we waiting for," Lericanin announced as he turned to her. "Any idea what it is?"

"Not sure, but it's big and deep into the cave."

He nodded, then looked to the rest of the group. "Can we leave this danger for the next passersby?"

"Do we have the time for this?" the more pragmatic Selyria queried.

"I can run back and inform the captain what we're doing," Lisa volunteered.

Lericanin nodded, "We'll meet you inside then".

In a flash, Lisa sprinted to the shoreline as the caravel sat quietly beyond, anchored within a few yards. Her eyes quickly found the other passengers, the pair that she had noticed earlier. "Tell the captain that we're going to investigate a cave that we found, we may be a bit before returning."

"I'll make sure they don't sail on," the female returned.

* * *

Once inside the large cavernous tunnel, Lisa rejoined the group as they neared the lair of the inhabitant that she had sensed earlier. Now that they were within range, she realized that it wasn't one large one but, three smaller ones.

"Everyone," she whispered. "There are three smaller dragons not far from us beyond that narrow there," she pointed.

"Dragons?" Alister clarified, his nervous voice echoing from the high ceiling above.

"You with me on this," Lericanin eyed his partner seriously.

"Yes."

"Line abreast, allow the mages and Faer in the rear."

They all formed up and moved on towards the unknown.

As they entered the narrower gap within the cave, the torchlight picked out three sets of purplish eyes that stared back, then roared as they attacked. Lisa prepared a spell as the clash of steel and claw erupted in front of she and Selyria who also prepared. Sword strikes and shield bashes clanged on thick, deep bluish hide as the first of the young howled in pain and dropped to the rocky floor. Lisa cast and watched the brilliant tendrils wrap another within its grasp, then dissipate as it continued on, more angered than it was before.
As the shield wall pressed and soon killed the second, Lisa felt the entrance of their mother high and to the left within the chamber who immediately announced herself letting out a thundering roar that shook the very ground. Gunnar stepped back to Faer as the others crouched and prepared for the worst. Suddenly, a wash of noxious fume coupled with an electric static filled the room and continued on past them into the long entrance tunnel. Concentrating, she resisted the heated blast and prepared for the physical attack to come. Firing into the new participant, Faer and Gunnar loosed their attack as the larger dragon swooped forward and raked the line of fighters, knocking Sceva into the wall nearby. Seizing the moment, the four remaining fighters charged and attacked the large body now within range of their weapons. As they struck, Gunnar focused his shot and fired. Speeding to its target, the missile punctured the beast's eye. In a shutter, the dragon's head shot to the right as it crashed to the ground allowing the fighters joined by Sceva to stab it repeatedly, then finish off the third young who charged forward.

Lisa approached Lericanin and the other men as they surveyed the carnage around them. "Anyone need tending to?"

"Just minor cuts and such," Lericanin scanned himself, then turned to Sceva. "You alright?"

"Sure," the knight of Elminoir stated, then plopped onto the rocky mound that they stood on. Lisa quickly crouched nearby and assessed the damage below the dented armor and torn leather. Placing her right hand on his arm, she concentrated and soon the bruising and internal damage healed and within moments, was gone.

"Thank you," he smiled.

"Of course. I half expected your other half to join us after that strike."

"Raven's been teaching me how to control that and I have been trying. When I turn into that, there's a danger that I could attack any of you and I think that's something that none of us want. I know I don't ."

She rose as they all looked up to Faer and Raven who were investigating the rest of the lair and had made a discovery on a distant ledge.
"We've got three large boxes, bags full of money and jewels as well as armor, weapons and shields," Faer announced.

Tie off a line and we can start transporting it over this blood that's beginning to fill the room. Alister's boot almost melted in it a moment ago," Lericanin informed. Soon after, they began claiming some of the treasure as Lisa helped tend to Selyria's burns.

As they began finding places to store the newer swords and shields, Lisa felt a familiar dark group enter the cave and begin charging their position. The fight had only begun.

Page 51 - The Makreesh

Howling shrieks, revereberating dark laughter and the thunder of hooves boomed towards them as the group quickly organized into their shieldwall across the narrowest part of the tunnel that led into the large chamber. Lisa pulled Selyria back and to the side as Gunnar and Faer climbed to higher positions and prepared for the onslaught. She could feel the nervous tension thick in the air around her and wished that there was something that she could do. Their enemy had caught them with no way out other than the one that the humans had come through initially.
Quickly, she concentrated on the ship and teleported to the berthing area. Four crewmembers suddenly eyed her in shock as she ran past them to find the cleric. Frantically searching, she found him in his small bedroom hunched over a collection of herbs.

"Sir, my friends are engaged with wraiths and a demon, I need you to prepare for wounded. I'll be bringing them back as soon as I can into the berthing area."

He straightened and looked at her, eyes wide as she vanished into thin air.

As she returned to the rear of the shieldwall, all light that had been prepared was now enveloped in a magically created darkness that kept them blind. Lisa could still feel her friends as well as their enemy as they clashed. To her horror, she watched as Lericanin turned and swung a mighty blow into Selyria standing behind him, knocking her to the floor. Lisa quickly moved to her side, wrapped her arms around her and teleported her first patient to the ship.

Emerging at the hammocks she laid her friend into one and turned to look towards his office. "Priest!" she yelled, then disappeared.

Within the cave, swords clashed as her friends fought for their lives using their ears in place of their eyes. Gunnar soon joined them on the line as Sceva morphed and attacked. She knew that his claws wouldn't harm the undead and moved to help. She felt the heated presence of the servant of Sater as he laughed and mentally assaulted her.

"Your denial of our master will cost you the lives of your friends this day and I will carry you to Him nonetheless. Surrender and you can save them this punishment."

Lisa ignored him as Sceva dropped from his wounds and moved to his side as Faer soon joined them. As she dodged the wraith's swings, Gunnar stepped up and kept him occupied as she grabbed Sceva and teleported him to the ship.

Emerging within the now busy berthing area, she set the morphing knight of Elminoir into his hammock, then concentrated for another trip back.

Amidst the raging battle, she noticed as Lericanin stepped up to challenge the demon general. Her heart raced as Alister fought with three wraiths to his left, frantically trying to survive. She quickly moved to her two oldest friends in time to see the general and another of his minions feint and pummel their captain with several shots to the head and body, dropping him hard to the rocky floor. Within a flash, she jumped to his side and transported him out in time to be missed by a sword that clanged on the rock.

She placed the third fallen comrade into another bed and returned.

As Alister and Gunnar held their own, she noticed Raven and Sir William drop simultaneously which prompted her to their side and gained them a free ticket out of the battle zone. Once she got them situated for the cleric, she ran to Lericanin whose life force began to ebb. Mentally exhausted from the emotional chaos, she calmed herself and lay her hands on his face allowing the stored energies within her to heal him enough to keep him from dying. She backed and sighed.

"How many more are there," the priest asked as she turned to eye him while he tended to Selyria.

"Three. I'll be right back."

She returned to a quiet room, the darkness now dissipated and the few torches that they had lit lay on the floor near Gunnar and Alister. Rushing to them both, she noticed Faer as he joined her.

"Where did they go," she asked.

"They just vanished back out of the cave."

Lisa grabbed Alister, then realized that they may be heading for the boat. "Oh, no." Once Alister was situated, she turned to a crewmember standing nearby, "Tell your captain that we have to get underway, now."

He nodded, then turned as she returned to the cave for Faer and Gunnar which she soon transported to the ship. As her friends were being tended to, she backed to a footlocker against the wall and slumped onto it. Totally drained, her mind and body were open now to the overwhelming power of the confrontation as tears began to stream down her face. They may not be so lucky next time.

Page 52 - Sanctuary in Skien

Sleeping for the rest of the eight day trip, Lisa relaxed for once in the gentle rocking of the large transport, her friends were all alive and some still recovering. The cleric had stated that Lericanin needed more attention than what he was capable of and the cathedral in their next port would be the best place for him.

As the vessel docked, Lisa gathered her things and helped transport Lericanin out into an awaiting wagon that Mardra and her husband, Duncan procured for them. She noticed the raven haired female, her violet eyes and unique tattoo that began underneath her left ear and fell down her back to disappear beyond her beltline.

"I've also gotten you all rooms at the White Lady for the next few days," she informed as she handed Sceva the keys.

"I don't know what to say other than thank you," he stated as the others stowed their gear into the wagon.

"We'll be in town for a few days. I hope your friend will be alright."

"I'm sure he will. Perhaps there will be some way to repay you before you leave," the knight offered.

She smiled, pearl white teeth gleamed in the noonday sun as the crewmembers from the ship unloaded cargo on a neighboring cart.
As the procession headed into the busy port town, Lisa walked up beside Faer. "How is he doing?"

"He's suffered some damage to his head and right arm that are beyond my abilities. I also found pieces of a dark metal in everyone's wounds that I had to remove. I noticed that the shards were festering in the wounds which shouldn't surprise me given our enemy. I had nearly enough of that metal to make my own dagger if I had the skill."

"Hmm. I'm just glad you were there to help the cleric and Selyria once she awoke."

"It was the least I could do since the group is going to help me find the remains of my loved one."

Once they arrived at the gates of the cathedral, she joined Selyria, Gunnar, Mardra and Duncan to the tavern and put their things into their rooms. Afterwards, she walked down into the main room and sat down at one of the tables as the innkeeper approached.

"Is there something I can get you, my lady?"

"Water, thank you."

He nodded and left as the rest arrived and sat down around her. She eyed Selyria for a moment and noticed how much closer she and Gunnar had become during the trip. It was good to see.

"I hope you don't mind my inquiry," Mardra began, gaining her attention. "I was wondering, why the scarf and hood."

Lisa studied their faces as Duncan's brown eyes looked up from his tankard. Did she want to risk his unwanted attention?

"I have leprosy," she lied.

Selyria and Gunnar could barely hold the chuckle and grins. Mardra studied their faces and glanced back to her, smiling. "In that case, I'm glad that you've spared us the horror."

"You're very welcome," she smiled as the innkeeper set her cup and a pitcher of honey mead on the table. As she eyed the cup, she realized that there was no other way to drink the contents without the removal of the scarf. Green eyes rose and met violet as Mardra crossed her arms on the table. "I guess you're going to have to turn your head."

"I'm not afraid. I've seen much worse over the years, I warrant it."

Lisa nodded as her hand rose to remove the scarf. "Don't say that I didn't warn you." As her tanned, smooth face was revealed, she noticed their eyes go wide as jaws dropped. Quickly downing the water, she replaced the scarf and set the cup back onto the wooden table. She could hear Duncan's heart race and smell his sweat bead up.

"How long do you think Lericanin will be in hospital?" she asked Selyria, avoiding the stares.

"Hopefully not too long. We'll see."

"I had talked with your friend Lericanin about you one night before the cave," Mardra began. "I knew there was something unique about you the moment I saw you. I just never realized how beautiful..."

Lisa nodded, "Thank you. Sometimes it's more of a curse than a blessing".

She smiled as Duncan's eyes never left her. Mardra noticed Lisa's attention and soon grabbed her husband's arm and rose. "We should be to the marketplace, we'll see you later." They watched as she nearly dragged him out into the street.

* * *

Lisa lay quietly in her bed that night, listening to the cacophony downstairs of talking, laughing and music as the mead and ale flowed. Beyond, she found the breeze that carried her mind out into the bay as her friend emerged and sat on the bed beside her.

"Hello," Lisa greeted, opening her eyes. "Where have you been?"

"Near. I had to make sure that you chose the right path after Duke William and his wives met you as well as your choices during the last couple battles. You've done well and I'm proud to serve with you."

Lisa grinned with some reservation. "I'm being tested? For what?"

"Life is a cycle of choices that we all make or have made that determine our paths, possibly for the rest of our lives. I know your heart is heavy with the burden of being responsible for this group of demons that have hunted you and your friends. But, I submit to you that it was only your choice to not follow the Dark One and live your own life that has gained the attention of those who can save you from eternal darkness and despair. His followers have been blinded by their own ambitions or their own self pity and choose not to acknowledge the truth, that life was never meant to be suffered but enjoyed."

"I always feared that I would end up in that place that he governed because none of the others would listen to me. It seemed a waste of effort fighting the one who would gain me in the end anyway. That's why I never understood why he kept at me when he knew that he would probably win if he just left me alone."

"No one said that he is rational. As a matter of fact, I've noted over the centuries that he's the most egomaniacal, sociopath that I've ever known. He can't bare the thought that someone as special as you wouldn't want to be with him and share in the misery that he's built and ultimately can't stand alone, himself."

"This is going to go on for some time, isn't it?"

"The fight? Yes," she nodded sympathetically, her golden hair shimmering in the dim light as if by its own glow. "But know this, that you will only go on to a better place if your body falls. Death is the door to a new beginning, this life is just the one that determines which door you leave through."

* * *

Lisa stood on the front porch as Gunnar excercised, Raven and Sceva relaxed and Sir William watched the passersby. Her eyes caught sight of Alister as he rode up and reined his horse to eye them.
"He's awake for those who wish to visit."

She quickly followed the group to the church that commanded the merchant quarter and ignored the stares as they headed to the infirmary where the long, rectangular room housed several patients and more empty beds lining both walls. Walking down the long central alleyway, they moved to stand and sit around Lericanin's bed as he smiled at their approach.

"How are you feeling," Sceva asked.

"Fine. How did we do?"

"We escaped, with the help of Lisa and survived by Faer and Selyria's skill," the elder knight stated.

Glistening green eyes watched as they all talked to him and noticed his now bald head and sunken features and the sight brought her to tears. He was also much quieter than normal and she knew that everyone else noticed also. His blue eyes drifted to her as she stood in the background.

"How are you doing," he asked as everyone else noticed her heart pouring out.

She nodded quietly.

"I'm fine. These bastards haven't heard the last of me," he suppressed the growing emotion building in the open room. "The next time we'll be prepared and send them back to the fires they came from, mark me."

Lisa smiled and turned to see the female cleric, long maroon surcoat sporting the symbol of Arhus on her breast as she approached.

"How long will he be here," Alister inquired.

"Another day or so. He needs to rest and there are other spells that we need to employ to finish healing him. Arhus has graced and protected him."

"More than once," the patient added.

Page 53 - To Protect the Innocent

Lericanin arrived at the inn the night before and everyone was in a lighter mood. Lisa joined them at a long table as they ate breakfast; the smells of ham, bread and cider filled her nostrils.

"I had a visit from my champion last night," Lericanin began. "She told me that the Makreesh has arrived and have been murdering families along the outskirts. Burning farmsteads and killing of livestock has got to stop and I know that the last time we faced them, they nearly killed us. I've prayed for some help and I figured that we could gather what we need and head out this morning."

"The sooner the better," Sceva added. "I've also gotten us some help from the church of Elminoir. One of the sisters there created an item that will dissipate the magical darkness around us so that we're not blind again. I'm confident that we can win this time."

Lisa noted the apprehension that still hung with the group, and for good reason. She appreciated their optimism, but had some reservations herself.

"I found out yesterday that there's a mage far to the north who can help us narrow down where this orc tribe lives," Faer informed. "He lives in a place known as Elbeuf."

"Did you get his name," Gunnar asked while shoveling a mouthful of ham into his mouth.

Faer nodded, "Bhatar".

"Well, first things first," Lericanin reminded. "I've been assured that we have the weapons needed to defeat this general and his counterparts. All we need to do is engage them with a good plan." He turned to Lisa. "You're going to stay in the rear with Selyria as Gunnar and Faer fire from behind us in the shieldwall. With Sceva's new help we won't have the same problems as the previous time."

* * *

After mounting up, they rode out into the mid-morning sun to the northern gate that was now locked down. Guards stepped out of the gatehouse as their sergeant raised his hand.

"This gate's closed, friends. You should turn back until the clerics take care of a problem on this road."

"We're here to help them," Sceva mentioned, pulling back his cloak to reveal the symbol of Elminoir on the breast of his green surcoat. "We also have with us Sir William of Ruse who's gained permission to leave by the bishop of Arhus here."

The soldier looked to William who glanced to him. "Open this gate and these demons will be vanquished."

Bowing, the sergeant motioned to the four guards behind him and they moved to the large double doors. Lifting the bar, they opened the gate to the quiet road beyond. "Arhus go with you, sir," the sergeant bid as he stepped out of the way. Lisa scanned the horizon as they exited out onto the dusty road that cut through farm fields and passed a tavern, now emptied as she noticed no sounds other than pigeons and rats within. Hoofbeats clomped along towards the distant treeline and they soon noticed long columns of black smoke rising from four fires in the distance. Lisa finally noticed their enemy emerge from the ethereal up ahead.

"They're here," she notified as they all reined in their horses and quickly dismounted. Lisa took the reins of their horses and pulled the steeds to the rear with her and Selyria who quickly began mouthing a spell. Sceva centered the shieldwall with Lericanin and Alister to his left, Raven and Sir William to his right, weapons drawn. In the distance, they watched as Bacauda and six wraiths charged. Black, tattered robes flowed as jagged swords sang from their sheaths who were all suddenly shrouded in a dark cloud that quickly overtook the group.

Lisa heard Sceva within the putrid mist. "Elminoir," and suddenly brilliant light pushed back the grey and illuminated their enemy. As the clash of steel erupted, Lisa also felt a burst of spiritual light above as she turned to see a brilliantly armored man on a winged pegasi whose golden horn jutted from his pure white head. She watched as he pointed his battlehammer at the wraiths. Her eyes drifted quickly back to the battle to see two of the wraiths shriek in pain, then disintigrate into ash as the knight in chrome-like armor landed behind the Makreesh and fired another blast into the demon's army that claimed two more within an instant. Lericanin and the group blocked and feinted as they fought their adversary who's dark cloud evanesced into the surrounding tall grass.
Selyria pointed her hands towards their general and Lisa noted the bluish arcing fingers course around the demons body, then dissipate as he laughed.

"Prepare," her friend's voice shouted in her mind to cut through the confusion of battle and she quickly drew her sword in time to see Bacauda disappear from the fight and re-emerge right in front of her. As she moved to block his sword, he feinted and struck her soundly, driving his blade down on her right shoulder. All went black.

* * *

She awoke, laying on the grass along the road as Sceva knelt beside with Lericanin and Elias, the Knight Commander of Exmoor, standing nearby with the others.

"How are you feeling, young one," Elias asked.

"Fine, I think. Where did he go?"

"He turned to us, said 'Only human', and disappeared," Selyria informed.

Her brow furrowed and she sat up. "So, that means that we're still going to have to contend with him, or he thinks that I'm dead."

"Hopefully the latter." Sceva smiled as he helped her up and wrapped his arm around her for support as her mind soon cleared.

"Well, I hope the best for the remainder of your journey, but we have to get back," Elias informed as he shook Lericanin's and Alister's hands. "Come visit us as soon you get the chance, alright?"

"Of course," Lericanin stated. "I appreciate your help today."

Elias smiled, steel grey eyes shimmered from behind the tanned face and white beard. "Our purpose is to help brother's in need whenever necessary." He turned to the rest, "Arhus go with and protect you".

Lisa smiled and watched as he headed back to the royal pegasi, mounted and rode back up into the air, then disappear in a flash of light.

"We should get going," Gunnar stated. "We still have a long road ahead."

They all climbed back into their saddles and rode on towards Elbeuf.

Page 54 - The Crystal Palace

After three weeks of traveling along the long highway that joined many of the towns within the northwestern kingdom of Basse-Sambre, the group found the foothills of the Tortosa Range dotted with castles and towers belonging to knights descended from a mix of Kuzin and Varangian ancestry. Being the northern gateway to the Astaran Empire, the kingdom straddled another isthmus that separated the Valga Sea from the northern Vyg Bay and had seen much of the action from border wars against their Astaran neighbor, the kingdom of Thurgau.

Lisa felt the faint presence of more like her as they entered the gates of the city of Tampere and rode on to the marketplace which, by the natural contours of the land, sat within the crook of two bordering hills and was centered by a tree filled park.

Lericanin reined in his horse and looked to an older gentleman selling fruit. "Where might we find a nice tavern to stay the night, sir?"

He smiled as his brown eyes surveyed the group. "The Crystal Palace. Without a doubt the best accomodations and prettiest hostesses within the empire."

"Thanks," Lericanin stated as his face lit up. Lisa could sense the urge to end the long string of lonely nights as they headed to the northeastern side of the city. Lisa felt the tingling in her spine as four boys stood from their bench to take the group's mounts as everyone climbed down and surveyed the stone wall that was adorned with a wraught iron gate painted black and was grappled and surrounded by ivy and brilliant purple and pink flowers. She followed them into the courtyard of manicured lawn, shrubs and more flowers layered up to a fountain that commanded their right.

"I wonder how much this place will cost a night," Alister mentioned as they noticed the large, two story, stone structure looming before them.

"I have a feeling that it will be worth it," Lericanin drove on up the wide stone steps to the laquered oak door. As he reached for the iron, hoop knob, the door opened to reveal a buxom brunette.

She smiled, "Welcome to the Crystal Palace, please come in." Lisa noted that this woman was normal and wondered where the hostess was as the evening light began to wane behind the distant hills. Inside the large, open main room, they noticed large and small round tables flanked by well crafted chairs of cherry and oak, wagon wheel-style chandeliers, a long bar to the distant left which now was occupied with ten armed men who all studied the newly arrived customers.
"How many rooms," she asked as the door closed behind them.

"Nine, if you have that many," Lericanin stated as he reached for his pouch and untied it.

"Each is ten gold a night which includes dinner, breakfast and the services of the ladies."

Lisa could hear Selyria gasp and most of the men only hear the last part of the deal. She smiled as Lericanin paid their lodging then received their keys and doled them out to everyone.

"What's your name," Sceva asked their hostess.

"I'm Margaret. I can take you all up to your rooms, is there any other baggage that you need help with?"

"No, this is it."

Lisa followed as they all turned to their right and followed her up the broad, sweeping staircase and beautifully carved railing of polished oak to the second floor where she was finally shown her own room. Stepping inside, she couldn't believe her eyes. A large, four-post bed attired with silk linens and large pillows was flanked by two small end tables, both topped with swirling glass candleholders that appeared as wispy, dark blue smoke. Thick rugs rounded the bed to the cherry wood armoire and the fireplace opposite the door flanked on the left by a window seat full of pillows of various shades of blue, red and orange and with floral patterns sewn into the borders. To the right, a door opened to the bathroom whose centerpiece reminded her of the marble bathtub that she enjoyed in Warwick.

"Is there anything that I can get you, milady," Margaret asked politely as Lisa stood quietly.

"I take it that you normally entertain nobility?"

"We have enjoyed the company of nobility, clergy as well as wealthy merchants and diplomats from all over the empire."

"Hmm." Lisa smiled as she realized how much money and for how long this place could've attained under the noses of many who would commit suicide had they known who they were sleeping with. "Not right now but, when your lady awakes, I would like to speak to her."

"Of course. I'll tell her." She bowed and exited, pulling the door closed as Lisa turned back to her lavishly appointed room.

* * *

After her long bath, she dressed and walked out into the bedroom and felt the approach of the Lady.
'Come on in,' she thought to their hostess who soon opened the door. Smiling, the tall, gorgeous blonde stepped in. A leather bodice covered the open shouldered dress of dark green velvet that flowed elegantly to the floor.

"I thought someone of import had visited us this day," the mature, soft tone greeted as she closed the door behind her. "I'm Kristal, the proprietor of the Palace."

"Lisa. Pleased to meet you."

"How may I be of service?" she asked as she neared.

"Actually, I noticed the energy of this place as we arrived and thought it curious that another group of our kind had found a way not to hide, but to survive in the open as you have."

Kristal chuckled and motioned to the window seat. Lisa followed her over and sat across from her in the soft candlelight emanating from the various holders around the room. "This life has been bred of necessity, as I'm sure you well know. We each wear necklaces that hide our true nature from prying eyes and magics made by a friend of mine. I've taken in girls who wish this life or those of our kind who have been turned and then left to their own devices and we've taken those under our wings and taught them how to survive in the world."

"I will have to ask that you make sure that none of my friends will be fed upon," Lisa stressed.

"That won't happen, you have my word on that. We feed before joining our guests so, put your worries to rest." Hazel-brown eyes studied her for a moment. "Might I inquire as to where you are from?"

"I was found by my friends in a ruined temple in the kingdom of Davos and have traveled with them ever since. They've become my family even though my sire and mother live within the Black Mountains."

"You are so different from us, yet similar. I just thought it odd that one of us could travel with men of the cloth as well as an archmage. They do know what you are, correct?"

"Oh, yes. They've embraced me as one of them and are very understanding that not all of us are monsters."

Kristal rolled her eyes. "There are too many of those, unfortunately. We had a visit from three a year ago who wished to make their home here with us but, I could tell immediately that they would spell our doom, so we killed them."

"Smartly."

"We do have to continually keep our senses aware for trouble. I took a moment to meet your friends and they seem quite nice. You've been on the road for some time, I take it."

Lisa smiled. "I've personally been traveling now for six months, the group for much longer. I had forgotten much before then until meeting them and being reminded of what had been lost. We had been chased by a powerful demon and his minions and defeated them north of Skien not a month ago. It's been an interesting life thus far."

Kristal shook her head quietly. "I can imagine." She looked towards the bathroom. "I take it you've enjoyed your visit thus far?"

"Yes. Sleeping on the hard ground has become a habit but, I do enjoy the comforts of a home every now and then."

"Where are you headed?"

"We're helping a friend recover the remains of someone dear to him. Have you ever heard of a mage known as Bhatar?"

Her eyes went wide. "Bhatar is no mere mage, he's a titan. Why do you ask?"

"We've been directed to see him about some information. Perhaps that is a bad idea. Faer wasn't informed of that."

"You're a brave one. I would warn you especially about visiting him. I've heard that he's a bit unforgiving about our kind and others that live in the Between."

Lisa nodded. "I thank you for the guidance."

"Please come back through and see us on your return trip. I would love to get to know you better and hopefully form a friendship. It's unique to meet someone like yourself who isn't bound by the same rules."

"I'll definitely keep this address in mind."

The following day after lunch, Lisa joined the group and noticed the perpetual smiles on nearly all of their faces as they mounted up and rode on towards Elbeuf. She even could tell that Gunnar and Selyria had finally taken their relationship to the next level and was happy for both.

Page 55 - Elbeuf

Another five days in the saddle brought the group to a campsite atop a forested hill and Lisa allowed Alister to tend to her horse.

"I have to go get something for dinner," she informed as the husbandman unlatched the saddle and tack.

"Be careful."

She smiled and headed off into the thick underbrush and strolled through the quiet forest as golden rays spilled through the boughs around her. Birds sang high above and she began to feel an excited charge build deep within her. Following the intensity, she approached the treeline to view a sea of color that spilled along the sloping hillsides to a large lake in the distance. Not only the scene worthy of an artist's brush, but also the energy that the meadow emitted made her take a deep breath.

"This was originally laid by the elves that lived in these lands before the first Dark Age," her spiritual guide informed as she appeared beside Lisa. "It's amazing how their care and love for the land has endured all these centuries and the fighting that has plagued this area alone.

"People are so careless sometimes. Why did they allow the first one to happen?" Lisa turned to her gorgeous friend.

"I don't know. But another has begun and will sweep these lands again."

* * *

Tall, grey walls greeted them a week later as they approached Elbeuf, the home of the titan whom few had any information on other than speculation and rumor. Lericanin and Sceva dismounted and walked up to the large door that towered over the armored humans as they stared up to the brass face whose mouth held a large shiny ring. It's bearded face stared straight ahead and Lisa could feel a residual magic whose emanations presented a kaleidoscope of colors.

Lericanin reached for and lifted the knocker, then let it fall. Soon, the face animated and looked down on them.

"Who dares disturb the great Bhatar?"

"Sir Sceva, Knight of Elminoir and Lericanin Averitt of Anderslough," Sceva's mature voice announced loudly.

"On what business?"

"We seek his guidance on a matter concerning an orc tribe we were told lived in this direction. We apologize for the uninvited visit."

The face contorted as the carved rims of its eyes scanned them and the group beyond. "That isn't necessarily a matter worthy of his attention. He will require that your archmage do a favor in return."

"We didn't know who else to turn to, we apologize." Sceva turned to Selryia as she stepped up.

"What does he wish of me?"

"There is a project that requires a quicker mode of growth.

"Certainly."

A booming noise within the door echoed through the neighboring trees as the door opened and Lisa could tell that it didn't open very often as she noticed the dirt pushed back from it as she looked beyond to the rising, covered road beyond. Lericanin and Sceva mounted up and the group followed up the meandering road built with flagstone of granite which led to the immense white castle that commanded the distant rolling green carpet to the east. Another iron framed, oak door towered over them as they stopped within the stone railed veranda and climbed down off of their steeds. Lisa's eyes rose and tried to take in the dizzying heights of towers and the building that scraped the clouds. Everyone quietly moved towards the door as it opened to reveal a well dressed giant. His brown eyes, closely cropped beard and hair denoted a being of intelligence and she also noted a kindness in his eyes that she didn't expect.

"Welcome to my home, I'm Bhatar," his deep voice boomed within the high ceilings of the foyer behind him. "Come in."

Lisa hesitated for a moment as the others began walking into the well appointed entrance that made them seem as halflings in the home of a normal person. His eyes stared at her as she stood there in hesitation.

"You have no reason to fear me, child. I give you my word on that and if my word is no good, then there's no one you can trust in this world. I've actually been looking forward to this meeting."

She followed and tried to catch up with the rest, keeping her eyes straight ahead and noticed as she passed him that his kneecaps were level with them. Her gift of knowledge had told her many things about his kind which promoted her respect as they headed into the residence worthy of an emperor. Her eyes scanned over the tiled marble floor of tan and white colors, white walls filled with immense tapestries, shelves, long tables full of gifts from all over the Kuzomen Empire and beyond as well as the finely crafted rugs that they walked across through the foyer and to the left as the door closed behind them and their host followed. Lisa stayed close to Sceva and Sir William as they entered the large sitting room whose furniture was clearly meant for other giants and her mood lightened as they all climbed up onto the couch, their legs dangling off of the edge as Bhatar claimed a lone chair nearby.

"So," he began. "Which orc tribe do you seek?"

"They had a black tattoo on their right arms that appeared like a scythe crossing an axe," Faer explained.

"Ah, the Sulitjelma. Their lands are to the north at the headwaters of the Vikna, directly north of here. I'd say about three weeks travel through the mountains. But, I'll warn you that the lands and towns between here and there are fraught with evil that worships the Dark One. To what business do you have with them, master elf?"

"They killed a woman that I'm bonded to and I've felt the need to lay her to rest. I first had the dream some years ago where I saw her in combat and then fall."

He nodded as his eyes studied the group. "Rest here tonight and sup with me. You can leave tomorrow, if you wish. I haven't had visitors such as yourself for many decades now."

The group stared dumbly for a moment as the offer processed. "We'd be honored," Selyria finally spoke up.

* * *

Lisa followed Alister and Lericanin as they were given freedom to roam the castle's halls and rooms. A great hall bordered the large kitchen as they glanced within the doorways and then through another large study to finally exit through a door that opened onto another railed veranda. Overlooking the northern half of his vast estate, they noticed a herd of horses sprinting far below towards the east.

"They're beautiful," Alister gasped as he leaned over the stone railing. Lisa's eyes scanned beyond the verdant hills to the majestic mountains beyond that headed far to the north and rounded to the east and disappeared in the horizon.

"This is quite a view," she stated as the trio stood there quietly.

Soon, their host emerged from the study and joined them. "I see you've met my friends," he smiled as his eyes caught sight of the herd.

"Is there any way that I'd be able to see them up close?" Alister inquired.

Bhatar looked down at him. "I'm sorry, friend. Those are a special breed that are reserved for the Varangian monarchy and I don't wish them to bond with anyone else. We've made an agreement long ago that I've given my word to uphold."

"I totally understand that. It's just that I've ever had a passion for their kind."

Bhatar smiled. "We have something in common then."

* * *

As they sat at dinner, Lisa noted that Selyria and Gunnar both had something on their mind and was tempted to delve deeper and find out what until Gunnar cleared his throat. "Everyone, we'd like to invite all of our friends to our wedding ceremony which Bhatar has been gracious enough to conduct for us."

Lisa smiled as she noticed the excitement and nervousness in her two friends while the rest congratulated them.

Within the hour, Lisa and Raven assisted the bride into an elegant white dress that flowed down her shapely curves.
"You're going to make a beautiful bride," Lisa lovingly admired the wife-to-be.

"Thank you," Selyria couldn't stop smiling. "I can't believe this day is here. We'd been talking about it for some time and the next thing I know, he proposed."

Finishing the final touches on the dress, Raven backed, "There," she smiled. "I'm jealous too, congratulations."

"I'm glad you're all here to be with us this day."

"Wouldn't miss it," Lisa stated. "They're waiting."

As the girls walked out into the hallway, they followed her to the study as the men and Bhatar waited amidst unseen musicians that Lisa noted were a group of instruments who each played on their own. She stopped short of the pair as they turned to Bhatar who stood before a large arrangement of flowers atop a table fronting a tall mirror framed in golden cherubs and ivy.

"This day we bring together two in love from different backgrounds and different homelands whose affection has bridged not only time but also cultures. In these days of uncertainty, life itself has triumphed over doubt, love over guarded reason. I'm honored this day to have been given the rare opportunity to preside over a ceremony whose traditions require set ceremonies and sites. Even though closed physically to that existence, angels sing at this moment for the continuation of our sole purpose to live. It's my honor to proclaim you twain as one."

Lisa watched as they exchanged rings and kissed, then mentally called for her friend. 'I hope they have a long lifetime to enjoy this day.'

'We do the best with the days we're given. Give no thought for tomorrow, live now.'

Page 56 - Land of Darkness

Faer's scouting abilities and the other's military minds led the group around the town of Kragero which Bhatar had told them was full of Saterists. Lisa could feel the taint in the rocks and trees themselves as they rode through river canyons and over narrow, snow dotted passes. They had all been quiet and made sure to keep their passage through enemy territory as discreet as possible by not making fires and burying their refuse. Lisa hoped that it would be enough though her experience told her that anyone within the ethereal could find them if they tried hard enough.

Soon, the power of death and suffering began to overwhelm her as Faer returned to the group.

"I've found an ampitheatre that appears to have been made naturally. I think we should check it out," he stated more to Sceva than the rest.

Everyone dismounted and followed their elven scout to the edge of a rocky outcropping which Lisa noticed the nausea intensified as they neared a hewn entrance. Lericanin, Sir William and Alister moved forward as Gunnar, Faer and Raven covered them. Selyria stayed with Lisa near the horses as she fought off the oppressive power that this shrine to Sater held. As Lericanin and Sir William closed to the edge of the deep bowl whose walls housed the seats, her mind began to see the maroon surroundings filled with the bodies of children screaming and crying. Tears streamed as she could feel the collective pain of all of their victims forever bound to this dark shrine of death, smell the blood flow and the wounds from which they came. Overwhelmed, Lisa collapsed to the ground.

She opened her eyes and noticed that the oppression was finally gone. Sceva sat beside her within the shallow cave as the others ate and rested. He looked down to her as she wiped tears from her eyes. "You alright?"

"It may take a while for that vision to fade," she sniffed.

"What did you see?"

Lisa tried to explain without envisioning that horrible scene again, but was unsuccessful. "In a word - death." She drew her knees up as hands rested over her eyes. "I saw the victims that were sacrificed in that hellish place. Children," she explained as the tears resumed.

"By the gods," Sceva exclaimed. "I'm sorry."

Lisa raised her hands and eyed him, confused. "For what?"

"That you're so open to that side of life. Those are things that no one should ever have to experience," green eyes drifted out of the cave and into the night. She could tell that he had seen things that she and the group would prefer not to have to witness.

"We've all got our gifts," she stated dryly.

He chuckled. "Yes we do."

Soon after she relaxed, the scent of a large body of men approaching on the wind caught her attention. She perked up, "Visitors", and drew her sword as the others gathered their weapons. Standing, she moved to the edge of the cave entrance with Lericanin and Alister as they watched Gunnar, Sir William and Faer nock arrows and aim to the right. After a patient moment, they loosed. Arrows sang through the night air as the hidden contingent inside the cave charged into the armed mob who maneuvered into their own shield wall, stunned at the counter-charge. Lisa enjoyed the thrill of this encounter and fed off of the energy of the rest of the group after what they had witnessed earlier. Resounding through the trees, the clash of steel claimed the enemy's lives fairly quickly as the outmatched attackers fell within moments of their failed assault. Lisa and Selyria checked their male counterparts for wounds and found little more than scratches and bruises.
The pounding of hammer on stake quickly gained Lisa's attention as her eyes scanned to Sir William and Gunnar who worked at beheading the fallen and commenced to piling them on the tall, pointed post in the ground as a grisly monument to their victory.

Lericanin stood and faced the east, mighty arms outstretched with a hammer in each. "Is this the best you could muster?! I spit on your pitiful effort!," his yelling voice echoed within the canyon.

Gunnar rose and eyed their angry comrade. "You fool, the whole purpose of moving quietly these days was to avoid contact with superior forces. We have no idea how many people live in these mountains waiting for an opportunity to murder again. Need I remind you of what Lisa experienced and told us about."

Lericanin's arms lowered, his face red. "It's because of what she saw that these murderers should die. How can you stand by after children have been massacred a day from here for someone that couldn't care less about anyone that follows him?"

"Notwithstanding, we don't have the reinforcements to take on an army."

"Smaller units can travel faster and easier than a larger one. You of all people should know that."

Lisa could sense Gunnar's frustration as they had been at odds for some time.

"But you see my point," the knight of Kalmar continued. "Or are you willing to sacrifice all of us for vainglory?"

Sceva stepped up," Gentlemen, this arguing and division between us serves nothing. We have a task to finish and with Elminoir's guidance, all of us will return home soon."

Afterwards, they mounted up and continued on until after three days, Faer and Lericanin addressed the group. "We're going ahead to scout the area and hopefully find the burial place of Elmora," Lericanin informed. "Why don't you stay here and keep the horses ready in case we run into an orc patrol."

"Alright," Gunnar agreed and they watched the duo melt into the darkening forest. Lisa walked over to the edge of the small clearing as they rested and kept her senses piqued for any sign of trouble. She closed her eyes and kept Lericanin mentally tagged as she also quieted her mind for the orc who lived not far north of their position.
Soon, the strong pungent odor of their enemy wafted on the breeze from the northern ridge and she quickly looked to Gunnar and motioned.

Motioning to the rest of the group, the aged veteran of many battles quietened the group, then moved up with his bow at the ready and waited and was soon joined by Sir William, Sceva and Raven as Selyria crouched near the horses and began concentrating on a spell. Lisa tracked the patrol of twelve as they moved along the upper treeline, then turned west and disappeared. As they quietly strolled out of her range, Lericanin and Faer returned to the campsite.

"Did you find her," Sceva asked.

Faer nodded, "She's finally at peace".

"That's good to hear. We should depart, there was an orc patrol that just passed and turned west not long before you arrived."

Lericanin drew a long draught from his waterskin. "We trailed them, actually."

Lisa watched as they all took the reins of their respective mounts and joined them as her eyes caught Faer reach for a necklace under his shirt and rub it affectionately.

* * *

Heading back southwest, they found a noonday rest area near a brook that cut through the rocky terrain dotted with pine and shrub. She sat on a boulder, bleached by the sun and scanned their surroundings and noticed Sir William walk over towards two trees, then disappear between them into thin air. Her brow furrowed as she realized what had just transpired before her eyes.

"Alister, did you see that," she asked as she rose and quickly made her way to the hidden gate.

"See what?"

She leaned in near the part between the pine. "Sir William, can you hear me?" No reply.

"Ahh, Lisa. What are you doing?"

Gunnar stepped up, his brown eyes scanning the area. "I saw that too. William walked between these two trees and vanished."

Lericanin stepped up, leaned down and picked up a dried branch and pointed it between the tall, greyed columns to see it vanish once it passed the plane between them. "That's interesting." He pulled the gnarled stick back out, then returned it to have it grabbed and yanked on, then let go. As the group pondered the scene, Lericanin reached in with the branch and once it was taut, he yanked and tried to draw William with it but was disappointed.

"You know we're going to have to go in there with him," Gunnar stated.

"We don't know where it leads," Selyria mentioned.

"Well, we can't leave him in there," Lericanin began. "I'll go with our horses and try to find a way out. We'll catch back up with you."

"Sorry, this venture has been all for one since we joined up," Lisa reminded. "If one of us goes, we all go find a way out. The exit could take you to the other side of the empire."

He stared at her for a moment, then acquiesced. They each retrieved their gear and horses as well as William's and headed within the unkown, one by one.

Page 57 - The Maze

Inside the gate, the group was greeted with green walls of an illusory flora and sky that both clung to their respective stone walls. Narrow, the initial tunnel opened to the right and left with several openings along the wall facing them.

"It seems that I've found something," Sir William stated as Lisa pushed her horse beyond the others and to the left.

Most chuckled as Lericanin eyed their new found friend. "We couldn't let you go on through this alone. Now all we have to do is find a way out."

She noticed Alister who took out a candle and had Selyria light it as they followed Lericanin through the first doorway. He dropped cream colored wax near the frame of the doorway to mark where they had been.

"No one step on this," the fighter directed.

Through circling dead-ends and around frustrating corners and short hallways, they eventually turned left and led their steeds down a long tunnel that turned abruptly left and then down a set of stairs. Cool air wafted up from the unseen room below as she felt the slight tingling of a gate as she breached the first stair downward. Soon, she joined them in a circular room as they all stared at a suspended hourglass that suddenly turned over and the black sand within began running.

"Perhaps our answer for this time limit will be found in there," Sceva mentioned as they all looked over his shoulder to see a large, salmon colored castle stand beyond a wide, flowing river between them.

"What are we waiting for," Lericanin stated and led out of the darker entry and onto a road that hugged a sheer rocky cliff to their right and around to a bridge in the distance. Scanning their surroundings, Lisa's green eyes viewed the rocky, uneven ground around them and around the castle that spilled down a slope and across verdant hills and eventually high, snow covered mountains. Crisp air burned her face as everyone's breath was visible. Mounting up, they rode to the bridge and their eyes soon noticed bodies hanging in iron maidens before the gatehouse that fronted the castle's curtain walls.

"Ride with haste," Selyria warned which spurred them onto the stone bridge. Hoofbeats clacked on the smooth surface as suddenly, two watery forms erupted from the water on either side and attacked. Weapons sung from their sheaths and holding rings as they defended themselves. Lurching forward, one of the elementals slapped Sir William from his saddle, knocking him to the tan colored road in a heap. Faer drew and quickly fired two shots into the elemental in quick succession, his magically enhanced missiles finding their mark and sent the attacker reeling and allowed the downed knight to push himself up. Sceva maneuvered between William and his attacker as the knight of Ruse mounted and rejoined the fray to strike a blow that caused the elemental to splash back to the river below. His fellow creature followed soon after and the group continued on to the gate.

Closed to any visitors, the tall, reinforced doors stood closed.

"Alister, give me your rope," Sceva directed as they all dismounted. After receiving it, he walked over to the gate and peered upwards. "I'll take it up and tie it off to one of the merlons," he mentioned, eyeing Lericanin and Alister who nodded. Lisa watched as he quieted his mind and soon glided upwards and then over the parapets to land on the upper walkway. Once the rope was secured, the other three fighters followed up and they heard the sounds of combat soon after. Lisa ran to the rope and pulled herself up and climbed through the merlon to see a large earth elemental fall to the ground in a heap as the men all stood waiting for the next attack.

"Open the gate," she yelled, then ran down the stone stairs to join them, sword in hand.
Groaning, the doors opened to allow the remaining of the group to lead the horses inside as Sceva repeated his last intrusive entrance. After the door opened, the group heard the sounds of combat again with growls and screams of pain from Alister as they ran through the gate to see a pack of wolves whose bodies glimmered in the sunlight beneath sparse hair of greys and white. Lisa noticed Alister lying on the ground with one of the beast's mouths clamped onto his thigh as the fighter repeatedly swung to kill the contstruct. Feints, dodges and strikes fought the evil creatures who had no semblence of life within them, a feeling that unnerved Lisa as she swung on her attacker and stabbed it until it dropped. Black ooze seeped from the animal's wounds as the final one fled to a cluster of three buildings to the distant left.
Quickly, she, Selyria and Faer tended to the wounded as the rest kept watch.

Now patched and bruised, the group continued on into the castle whose squared construction stood quietly. Each corner had a tall, round tower that protected each with a separate tower to the west side of the keep that was linked by a covered walkway.

"I imagine that we will have to get to what is in there," Lericanin stated as they all gathered together, then headed to the keep's main door. On guard, they walked into the the large foyer that fronted the great hall which centered the keep itself. A kitchen, den, pantry and wash closet were situated on the first floor and they made their way towards the rear door. As they approached the central hearth, a fire leapt to life, then grew into another elemental which they quickly reeled from.
Selyria concentrated as the fighters hid behind their shields from the heat, pointed her hands at the giant flaming assailant. A stream of bluish magic slammed the elemental and destroyed it in a blast of steam that dissipated into the air.

"Everyone alright," Faer asked as he lowered his bow.

The others nodded, tanned faces darkened even in the torchlight and they continued on through a large chapel and to the left to enter the northwest tower.

"We're running short on time," Sceva mentioned as they quickly found the staircase that followed the contour of the tower itself and began running up to the top floor. The landing was flanked by two doors which Lericanin took the left which led back into the keep. Lisa followed out and to the right as the long hallway opened to the western parapets shrouded by the hoardings and through which they could see the lone tower nearby. Soon finding the entrance to the fortified walkway, they raced to the door on the opposite side. Shouldering their shields, Alister and Lericanin rammed it with their own shoulders until the door finally burst into a narrow walkway that overlooked the open interior. Darkened, Lisa noticed immediately the tumult of voices crying, screaming, praying and whimpering, a sound that echoed within her mind.

"We're going to free you, hold on," Sceva called out to an unseen individual below within the wide and deep well. Lisa had no visual avenue to the victims that she heard as the walkway was only wide enough for the first three. Suddenly, they all heard the moaning scream that reverberated within the tower's bowels and Lisa looked up to see a rising host of opaque forms rise into the ceiling and disappear and the voices stopped.

"I hope that's what we came to accomplish," William stated, his voice echoing within the darkened well.

"I have a feeling it was," Sceva supported.

"Lets get back to the hourglass and make sure."

"I'll go and be right back," Lisa stated. Concentrating on their entry point, she teleported herself there to notice the wooden framed, glass device stood idle as the sand had run out. Her heart sank as she hoped that they had succeeded.
She quickly returned to the group as they began walking back into the keep. "The time has run out."

They turned and looked at her as confidence turned to despair.

"I have a feeling that we accomplished what was required," Gunnar stated.

The others nodded and Lisa followed them back to the horses, hoping they were right. Climbing back into the saddle, they rode out of the castle and returned to the round room, then dismounted and led their horses back up the stairs. Lisa noticed a hesitation as the group walked straight out into a forest from the top of the stairs and spread out to stare at their surroundings. She turned to notice the stairway disappear once Selyria exited.

"It couldn't have been that easy," she said, eyeing her friend.

Selyria turned and noticed the surrounding trees as far as they could see. "Perhaps it was. It seemed that the maze was much larger than that though. I can't imagine the maker wanted it to be solved so easily, I was prepared to continue going on through more of it than that."

"Thank Arhus," William praised, looking upward as the other more religious of the group agreed.

"Now all we have to do is find out where we are now," Lericanin mentioned. "I know this isn't where we were before. The terrain is totally different."

"Let's camp here tonight and start scouting in the morning," Gunnar suggested.

Lericanin nodded, "That's a good idea. Faer, see if you can find us some water."

The elf nodded, then rode into the forest and soon found a suitable place to rest.

Page 58 - Chevington

Laying within her cloak, Lisa smelled the cooking fire as Lericanin made breakfast. Sunlight peeked through the boughs of surrounding oak and hickory to hit her in the eyes prompting her to pull the cloak up farther over her nose.

Lericanin chuckled. "You might as well get up."

"No. This is too comfortable."

"As you wish, but I hate to be the one to tell you but, more beauty sleep is a waste of time."

Green eyes opened as she looked at him. "What are you trying to say?"

He smiled. "I know you don't eat breakfast, but that's no reason to be lazy. We're planning on leaving as soon as we've eaten."

Grinning, "I can still catch up to you no matter how long I lay here."

"She's got a point," Sceva mentioned to her right. "But, I think it's time that we address this lack of concern for pulling your weight lately," he tried to contain the grin as aged green eyes looked down at her. "We've all been noticing it and we're worried."

"I'll try harder," she smirked then pulled the cloak up and closed her eyes again.

* * *

Soon, they approached shallow hills and Lisa picked out a familiar stink in the distance. She turned to Lericanin who rode to her left. "We've got an encampment of orcs to the west of us," she pointed. He rode up and motioned to Alister who notified the scout who already had dismounted and prepared his bow as they arrived to him. Dismounting, the group fanned out and slowly crept towards their enemy and she noticed their alertness just as the first volley of arrows from Faer, Gunnar and Lericanin fired into them. Grunts and growls alerted the others within the cave nearby as they charged, weapons in hand to meet the humans now in their shieldwall and prepared. Lisa maneuvered to the right flank and gutted one orc, his greenish skin dirty and inundated with putrid sweat that also permeated his leather armor and clothing.
As they finished the first wave, the group charged to the closed door at the entrance of the cave and rammed it with a fallen log. As the pounding of wood on wood continued, Lisa could sense the power of a mage with the enemy within calling up his own spell.
She turned to Selyria. "There's a magic user with them, be ready."

Nodding, the archmage began preparing her own counter. Just as the door was breached, the group pushed into the darkened entryway as combat resumed. Lisa quickly scanned for the human mage beyond the enemy and found him as he ran deeper into the cave complex and shut a door behind him. Battlecries amidst the fray drowned out the clanging that echoed until the dead lay about them. To their right, Faer entered a large stable and living area and Lisa could smell the faint scent of elves within the walls and floor. The previous owners had not vacated this place quietly.

"There was another door within the first room that we should investigate," Gunnar stated as they moved back to the entry now filling with the stink of orc dead. Lisa was glad for the scarf over her nose, but it wasn't enough. She turned to Selyria.

"He went in there," she pointed to the closed barrier but as she focused her senses, noted that he frantically looked for a way out and could find none. "We need to hurry."

"Grab that log and we'll knock it down," Lericanin directed as they retrieved the ram and began blasting the second door until finally breaking it. Suddenly, a blast of fire slammed into their shields as Lericanin and Alister charged the mage who stood in shock. Sword and hammer quickly dropped him to the ground as Lisa surveyed the round room. A central well stood about waist high in the chamber and she could feel a warding placed on it marked by a white powder around the base. Surrounding the outer wall stood carved doorways and she counted thirty-one, more than half that were still active and usable.

"Don't go near the well," she pointed which prompted Alister to back away as he rifled through the fallen mage's robes.

"Why," Gunnar asked.

"It's protecting something within that I've got a bad feeling about."

"Noted."

Sceva approached the nearest carved frame on the wall as his right hand carressed it's handiwork. "Is this what I think it is?"

"Gates," Selyria noticed as she also studied the embossed artwork. "We need to report this place to the nearest jura that we can find."

"Do you think that they have been using this place as a gathering point for their armies?" Lericanin queried.

"Possibly," Sceva turned to eye the rest of the room dimly lit by his bright stone that hung on the necklace that he had been given in Skien. "But I agree with Selyria, we do need to report this place. Perhaps we can bury the entrance to keep anyone else from finding it before they can come to investigate."

"Alright." Lericanin led everyone back outside as Faer and Alister climbed up over the entrance and began caving the roof into the shallow entry outside of the front door as the others dug from the sides and gathered shrubs to replant around the area closer to the entry.

Once done, they continued south until reaching the city of Cardigan. Lisa, Raven and Faer headed for the tavern that commanded the northeastern corner of the marketplace and rented some rooms and she heard the Kuzin language spoken with Astaran spoken by a few merchants and their crews.
As they approached the innkeeper, she leaned over the counter as he made change.

"This may sound odd,sir but, where exactly in the empire are we currently?"

His steel-grey eyes glanced to her for a moment, grinning. "Cardigan is on the western border of the kingdom of Basse-Sambre. Why, where are you from?" he stated in accented Kuzin.

She tried to guess how far the gate from the maze had taken them and without a map, gave up. "A bit farther than we had suspected. Thank you," she took the keys and headed upstairs with their gear, Raven and Faer in tow.

Now out of earshot, Raven turned to the scout. "How far do you think we've come?"

"I'm not sure but, he did say that we're on the western border of the kingdom which means quite a distance. I noticed mountains far to the east which I'm guessing is the Tortosa Range which we previously had been on the eastern face."

Raven chuckled in disbelief.

Page 59 - Heading Home

Mounting up, Lisa rode out of the western gate with Gunnar and Selyria as he led them past farms to a nearby line of earthworks and stopped. She could sense his mood soften as he gazed down along the man made hill.

"What is it," Selyria asked him, hand on his arm.

"I didn't realize where we were until just now. I fought here during the Second Border War, except we were over there." He pointed across the sparsely treed fields to a distant tree line. "After two months of fighting, we never did breach these defenses. Thousands died within two miles of this spot trying though. Their count that defended this town was a great tactician."

Lisa imagined in her mind the battlelines, standards waving in the breeze as arrows and other missiles flew back and forth. Men died in charges as cavalry rode down bowmen and engineers. Tasha's father gained some notoriety on this very field which would in time catapult his standing with the emperor of Astara to his present position as a duke.

* * *

After Raven parted company with them, they chartered another boat in the port city of Espoo and sailed back south through the rising waves of the Valga. Lisa slept during that voyage to the shores near the cave where they had fought the dragons and were nearly killed by the second wave of demon and wraith.

She awoke as they gathered their things, starving and quickly moved through the berthing area, up the ladder and across the deck to vault into the water below. Driven by her thirst, she eventually attacked the nearest deer that had the misfortune of being the slowest of the herd. Once revitalized, she ran to catch up to the group who now stood in the acidic stink that they had left not a month before.

"Faer, tie off the rope and we can send the rest down the way we did before," Lericanin directed.

"It's gone," the elf stated as he looked around within the shallow cave.

Everyone looked up to the distant torchlight in disbelief. "Gone, are you sure?" Alister asked.

"It's not here." Faer turned and began his return to the narrow entrance to the chamber.

"Only the crew and the couple knew about this place," Selyria mentioned. "I never said anything to them about the treasure."

"I didn't either," Lisa added.

"I may have mentioned it," Faer revealed apologetically. "I didn't expect anyone to come back, although I guess I should have."

"Nothing we can do about it now," Sceva said. "We should just continue on, winter is setting in and the weather on the Valga isn't going to make a pleasant trip."

They all headed back, dejected and angry that their avenue for the school that Lericanin was talking about building would have to wait a bit longer.

* * *

After another week-and-a-half, the vessel docked in Foyer, a port city of the kingdom of Davos. Lisa had to sneak into the pens one night and take the life of a goat to survive the last leg of the trip. But now she would have the road to hide her true self on as they returned to Carbost. A trip that took them twelve days in the deepening snows that blanketed the landscape.
Arriving at the farm, she greeted Alister's family with great emotion.

"We feared we wouldn't see you again," Margaret said, holding Lisa's arms.

"I've had an interesting journey this past year, that's for sure. It's good to see you again also."

She could tell in the family's eyes that she had changed physically somewhat, but no one said anything.

Markus sat in his chair near the hearth as the men returned from upstairs where they had put their gear and armor. "How long will you be home," he asked Alister as Lisa helped in the kitchen.

"Some time. We've been invited to Exmoor and Lericanin feels that it's a bit more urgent than just a casual visit."

Heavy brows dipped. "How so?"

"Perhaps Knight Commander Elias is sick, we're not sure."

Markus nodded as he drew another breath of fume from his pipe.

A bright blue sky greeted them to a new day as Lisa headed downstairs and outside as Gunnar and William excercised near the barn and then began their run across open fields. Taking in the surroundings, her green eyes sparkled as they turned to notice the long grey walls that lined the hill to their north. Memories came flooding back of visits to her grandparents home, Alister's aunt and uncle's barn where she returned to Lericanin and the group after the bounty hunter tried to kill her. She could almost smell the body of Isolata as they brought it to the gates of the baroness' keep.

After a week of rest, she sat on a stump as William and Faer practised firing at a target that sat against the barn. Her eyes drifted to Lericanin who returned from his walk in the forest and immediately noticed the bundle in his arms. She perked up and focused her senses to notice the baby within the blanket, hungry and confused.

"Where did you find her," she asked as he neared the house.

"Out in the forest, her mother apparently just left her out there to die." He continued on into the house as she followed until they found Margaret who turned and wiped her hands.

"What have you there?"

"A baby. I found her in the forest some time ago," he informed as he handed the child to her.

Lisa finally got to see the bright blue eyes and golden hair that graced the pudgy, angelic face. "She's a half-elf," she revealed.

Lericanin and Margaret looked at her. "What?" he exclaimed. "How...never mind."

"Well, if we can't find the mother, I guess you've got a new home," she lovingly carressed the child's face and took her upstairs to feed her. Faer soon entered with William and looked upstairs.

"We should see if we can't find out where the mother went," Lericanin stated as he led them back to the spot near a tree where the bundle had been left. Lisa couldn't smell anyone else in the area but Lericanin and the girl as Faer began searching the area for sign until they finally crossed the highway from Carbost that led to Thomson, two days south. They soon noticed the shrine of Elminoir and approached as several riders departed. Entering the front door, they soon found a younger priest who turned to them.

"How may I be of service?" His kind brown eyes smiled.

"We found a baby not far west of here who couldn't be more than a week old and I was wondering if you had treated any girls recently who may be the mother?"

He thought for a moment. "There was one that I seem to recall that had passed through here about that time. She was still pregnant at that time. I didn't get her name, unfortunately but, she did mention that she was from Carbost."

Lericanin nodded, "Thank you for your assistance."

"I'm sorry that I couldn't give you more. I'll keep my eyes open for any sign of her. Where is the child now?"

"At the Stormfrost farm, just up the road on the right side of the highway."

"If I hear anything, I'll inform you. May the Lady assist in this matter."

They departed and searched the woods farther out from the discovery site to find nothing. Before nightfall, they returned to the house and Faer finally got a chance to see the child who immediately took to him as he picked her up. Lisa noted the smile as he studied her that was returned with laughter.

"Someone has found a friend," she stated.

Faer nodded then turned to Margaret. "What will happen to her?"

"If no one comes to claim her, we'll adopt her. We always wanted a daughter," Margaret smiled as she finished setting the table.

Markus watched as the scout held the girl. "What should we name her?"

Faer looked up to him. "She's your daughter."

"She likes you and from what Lisa stated, she's half-elf. It would only be appropriate that another elf name her."

Faer studied the face that smiled to him as she tugged on his finger. "Les'maura Feralas. Les for short."

"That's pretty," Margaret stated as she straightened, then looked to Darian and Alister. "Meet your new sister, boys."

Page 60 - The Zealots

Lericanin sat with the group in the loft of the barn, a large, tanned piece of paper between them lit by two candles that stood on opposing corners.

"The lord has sold us two acres here," he pointed to the treeline not far from where they sat and bordered Alister's family field. "I've contracted a mason that the architect knows and they're going to start building soon."

Lisa studied the floorplan of the rectangular building that was going to take a year and thousands of gold to finish. Two stories, it would house the group and several guests with a large great hall in the center and kitchen on one end. It would be nice for the group to finally have a place to call home.

"The road to it will border the field here and join the highway, that way we can free your parents from the burden of always taking care of us every time we come through. In time, we may also be able to build a stable to the side."

"That'll be nice. Add a smithy for Lisa and I," Alister added excitedly. The two had been practising for several months now and she was starting to get the hang of it. A prosaic list that she had been gifted with by a merchant some time before also assisted with various tools and heating techniques.

The next morning, the cloud cover consisted of high level, thin grey lines that drifted and built as they traveled south to.......

Darian finished mucking out one stable to turn and see Lisa strolling through the side yard. How he loved watching her, her green eyes and gorgeous body intoxicated him. He would do anything that she asked and waited for the day when Alister would allow him to go on their journeys with them. Standing in the barn, pitchfork in hand supporting his weight, he dreamed of being in her arms, loving her near the pond southwest of here, her red hair falling down around them.
Suddenly, she pitched forward and his heart stopped as he noticed the arrow sticking out of the side of her head. She wasn't moving. Fear turned to rage as he dropped the pitchfork and sprinted to her side.

"Alister!!!' He screamed. Turning to the treeline, tear filled eyes spotted the assassin who stood and turned. Darian ran to the barn, grabbed his sword that hung near the forge and sprinted through snow covered fields, hatred fueling his legs and pushing him to the breaking point. Avoiding trees and white topped bushes, the man turned as Darian swung mightily, catching him across the shoulder and cutting downward. Drawing it out, the enraged farmer's son hacked as he screamed and blood sprayed and painted the area red. Unrecognizable, the victim's body became a mess as Darian continued venting his frustration and hatred for the one who may have taken his love from him.

Someone grabbed him from behind and he pushed backwards knocking them both to the ground. Gripped, he couldn't swing on this new threat which only brightened his rage.

"Darian! Calm, it's me, Alister!" They wrestled for a moment and the executer finally starting noticing and recognizing Lericanin, Gunnar and William.

"Alright, let me go!" Darian returned, still emotional. As the strong arms around him loosened, he pushed himself up and ran back to Lisa. He had to make sure that she wasn't gone, she couldn't be. Sceva, Faer and Selyria knelt nearby as he arrived and fell to his knees beside them. "Is she alright? Tell me she still lives," he asked frantically as she lay there, blood flowing from behind her left ear.

"She'll be fine," Selyria stated. "Darian. Darian!" arms grabbed him.

He focused on the archmage.

"Calm down. She'll be fine, alright."

He nodded, tears streaming down his face.

"Go clean up while we work, okay?"

He didn't want to leave Lisa's side but, knew there was nothing that he could do to help. But, he did kill the one that had hurt her. Standing up, he stood there, blood covered sword in his hand and watched as Selyria's hands glowed after Faer removed the arrow, and healed the wound. Numb to anything other than her, Darian followed them up to his room where they lay her on the bed and covered her with a blanket. A hand turned him slowly and he noticed his father standing there, wide-eyed.

"What happened? Are you alright?"

Darian nodded. "Yeah. I killed him. I chased him and killed him for hurting her," he revealed without emotion.

"Come on, son, let's get you cleaned up. We need to let her rest, alright?"

He nodded quietly and followed his father to the water barrel outside and soon dropped the sword to the ground as the whole scene came flooding back through the dark wall that he had built up as tears streamed as the memory of seeing her hit and falling to the ground. The helpless feeling that he had, knowing that she could've been taken from him forever. He dropped to his knees and wept as Markus held him tightly.

After he composed himself and changed, Darian walked into the room as she slept and knelt beside her bed and took her hand in his own. He carressed her fiery hair adoringly. "No one else is ever going to hurt you while I breath," he promised, then lay his head on her arm softly and closed his eyes.

* * *

Lisa woke some time later and noticed Selyria sitting nearby in a chair. She turned to her, "What happened?"

The brunette rose and sat on the edge of the bed. "You were wounded by an assassin. We found out that he belonged to a well known guild that was hired by Kasar. Lericanin and Sceva have asked around but we're not sure where he is right now. We have heard that Kasar has gained the attention of all the churches and they're saying he's a lunatic. The unfortunate part is that he's gained a following who are all attracted to him and they believe that he's the son of Arhus."

"Why would he be after me?"

"He knows what you are and possibly could have told someone or he felt that he needed to finish the job that your father started."

Lisa closed her eyes and sighed. "Great." She eyed Selyria again, "Did they catch the bounty hunter?"

"Actually, Darian killed him. He was apparently in the barn when you were hit and ran into the forest and caught the individual. He's really taken with you, we had to pry him from your side while you rested."

Lisa smiled. "How long have I been out?"

"Six days."

After feeding, she searched the farm and soon found Darian in the field practising the sword with William. They both stopped as she approached.

"Good afternoon, gentlemen," she greeted.

"It's good to see you up," Sir William smiled warmly. "We were beginning to wonder."

Lisa nodded, then glanced to Darian. She could hear his heart beating and his mind trying to find the right words to say without seeming too forward. The emotion poured out of the boy who was only five years younger physically, but ages behind in experiences and maturity.

"My lord," she turned to the knight of Ruse. "I was wondering if I could borrow your student for a moment."

"Of course." William turned to Darian. "We can continue on with the lesson later." As he walked back to the house, Lisa approached.

"I heard that you killed the assassin, thank you," she began.

His eyes glistened as he nodded quietly.

"Darian, you know that I enjoy visiting here with you and your family. I've come to see you as a friend and I would do anything for you. But, you also know that because of what I am, it couldn't work between us." She allowed that point to set in.

"I would give my life for you," he finally pushed out, ego set aside as tears streamed down his tanned cheeks. "I wished every day that your eyes would open and prayed for it every moment. I offered my life in place of yours, but I guess that wasn't in His plan. But, I'm glad that you're alright."

Lisa listened to every word and felt his emotion besides. This would be as close as she would ever come to feeling what a man felt for a woman. "I wasn't built the same way everyone else was, Darian. I don't feel the same type of love for anyone that you're displaying right now. I can't take care of you like a wife would. Those feelings have escaped me and been replaced with other benefits."

His brow furrowed. "Alister said that you were human also."

"I feel pain and emotions, yes. I'm going to live for a long time, longer than many generations of your family from this day on. Long after He's taken you and all of my friends home. Do you understand what I'm saying?"

He studied her for a moment. "I don't care about that. I'm glad that you'll live on, that you can't get sick or know disease. I want the best for you and....I'll love you every day of my life. I promise you that."

Lisa smiled. "I can't give you what you need, I'm sorry. One day you'll meet someone that will take your breath away and she'll make you happier than you are now. You'll both have many children and a nice home. I'll visit now and again to look in on them long after you and she are gone to Ghevond."
She listened to his mind as he tried to rationalize some way to keep her in his life, then finally gave up. Bowing her head, she turned and left him to his thoughts.

Page 61 - A Friend's Wish

Lisa walked back to the house and left Darian to think about her denial and hoped that in time he would move on. Only time would tell. After she quietly rounded the barn, she noticed a rider quickly approaching the front of the house where she could sense Lericanin and Gunnar sitting with Sceva on the porch. Jogging, she joined them.

"I'm searching for one named Lericanin," the younger man stated. She noted that he and the horse were out of breath and if Alister saw his steed in this shape, the rider would be in trouble.

"That is I," their captain introduced as he stood, hand on hammer.

"I've been sent by one named Galerik. He's presently in Navan and has a task for you and your friends and he sent me post haste to retrieve you. We need to return as soon as possible."

Lericanin nodded and ran into the house to gather his gear and the others. Lisa studied the rider as he drew up his waterskin and drank deeply, then returned it. "There's a trough here while you wait," she informed, pointing to the southern side of the house.

"Thank you," he said, then guided his mount to it as she ran up to her room and gathered her backpack and sword, then returned to the yard with the rest. Horses geared with saddle and tack, she headed to her own as the others prepared for departure and noticed Darian holding the reins for her.

"Be careful," he said, eyes telling her much more than his lips could.

"Thank you." She climbed into the saddle and took the reins. "We're probably going to be heading on to Exmoor, so we'll see you in a few months. Take care of yourself and your parents."

He nodded and backed as they rode off behind the messenger who led them west across snow covered fields, bypassing the city entirely. Faer and Gunnar took the lead out of habit as Lisa and the others kept the center with the boy from Navan.

"What is so urgent in Navan," Lericanin asked as they entered the covered road west of Carbost.

"My lord's been investigating reports of troublesome knights within his barony and your friend Galerik and his men have been helping arrest those found guilty. I'm not sure how you know the mercenary captain."

"He and we have worked together before, escorting merchant caravans for the Tavayen family. That's been three years ago now," Lericanin looked out into the surrounding forest in disbelief. "Hard to believe so much time has passed."

* * *

After two days of hard traveling, the group arrived at the walled town that butted against a swamp on the western side. The gates were closed and locked as they approached and reined in their horses to look up to the guards atop the walls.

"Who goes there," one of them challenged.

"I am Kenneth, stablehand to the Baron, Sir Henry Navan, come with assistance to his lordship. Open the gates."

After moments of deliberation, Lisa sensed the movement to the bar within the gatehouse. They heard it being removed and the doors opened as several armed men stood waiting as they rode up. "It would concern you then, stablehand, that his lordship died in his sleep last night," a sergeant mentioned angrily.

"Have the clerics determined the cause," Sceva asked.

"No. But we all suspect foul play at work." His cold, brown eyes stared as he and his men finally stepped out of their way and allowed Kenneth to lead them to the keep through busy streets filled with men and boys drilling with unfamiliar weapons. Booming, the doors were quickly closed and barred again as Alister arrived and passed through the gatehouse to join them.

They all dismounted and walked through the bailey and into the great hall where a large group of armed men sat and stood. Lisa soon recognized the tall, dark haired captain. His breastplate, riddled with dents and dings sat above a dark furred coat that fell down over his rigid leather and plate leg guards and greaves. A large pewter tankard in his hand raised to a thickly bearded, but gaunt face and she could tell that he was very sick.

"Galerik," Lericanin greeted as he approached their old friend.

"About damn time. I was beginning to think that I would have to save this town on my own." Galerik smiled weakly as he coughed, gold earring bucking with the hack.

She also noticed Lericanin's concern. "You seen a cleric about that?"

"I'll be fine. We have an important task for you friend. The baroness here and her two sons need to be escorted back to Carbost and safety. I couldn't think of anyone that I trusted more than you."

"Alright. Perhaps you could fill us in."

Galerik coughed heavily, putting his hand to his mouth and Lisa immediately smelled blood as he wiped it off and cleaned his hand on his jacket. An action not lost on anyone in the room. "Lord Navan had us investigate three local knights for treason and arrest them, which was fun by the way. Afterwards, we transported them to the dungeon to await trial and then this morning, his chamberlain found him dead." Sunken green eyes looked up to Lericanin. "I want you to get his wife and children out of here as soon as they're ready. She's upstairs now gathering her things."

"Alright." Lericanin eyed his friend sympathetically and Lisa knew that this may be the last time they saw one another.

Soon, a middle-aged, well dressed woman descended the staircase with two boys of about ten. Behind her walked another middle-aged woman carrying two leather sacks loaded down with clothing as Lericanin and Sceva approached.

"My lady, we'll be escorting you to Carbost. You are all familiar with riding?"

"Of course, sir." She nodded, then eyed Galerik who pushed himself up as his chest heaved in laborious breaths. "Who is this man?"

"He's Lericanin Averitt, my lady. He's a veteran of the army of Kecel and I have trusted him with my life in the past. You'll not be in better hands to the Baroness of Carbost. That I swear."

"I trust you will ensure the safety of the household until my return." Her soft blue eyes turned back to the tall fighter before her. "We should depart, sir."

"Right away." As they all turned to head back to the main door, another familiar figure walked in briskly, bow in hand.

"Galerik, we've an orc army marching this way." The ranger informed.

The bearded captain turned to Lericanin. "Make all haste, friend."

"I'll see you after."

Galerik smiled, "Here or Ghevond".

They quickly exited the great hall and mounted. Their horses galloped to the gate as Gunnar yelled, "Open the gates for the Baroness!"

As the guards noticed their lady heading for them, they quickly lifted the bar and pulled the gates open to allow their escape. Once out on the open road, they kicked their mounts into a sprint and Lisa could smell the enemy closing on the town as they nearly missed the enemy's flank that tried to cut the road off from anyone doing this very thing.

That night, they stopped for a rest that the two young boys desperately needed. Lisa sat with them as Lericanin occupied his mind with dinner and she could tell that something weighed heavily on his mind.

"What is it," Lisa asked, already having an idea.

"I wish that we didn't have to leave them there like that," he sighed.

"They are brave men," the baroness stated in a motherly tone.

Lericanin nodded and went back to his concoction, resolved to his friend's fate.

Page 62 - Unknown Forebear

As they passed through Cimpeni and Glencoe, Lisa began to reminisce about certain things that had happened there when she was Kailee. Trouble with the cleric as she and Tia meditated, things said and done that now were lost to time and memory. She allowed her mind to wonder how Tia was doing and she hoped that her friend was living happily and realized the way she felt about the one who led her from her illusory home was the same way that Darian felt about her. Or, was it because of what her appearance ensued in man?

'There are many things that he enjoys about you,' her unseen friend revealed. 'Your appearance is the thing that drew him and others initially, but it's not what keeps him near. That's attributed to your personality.'

'I just hope he finds someone that can make him happy.'

'He will.'

A light wind blowing through the dark branches covered in snow, carrying glistening flakes with it across their path also carried the familiar scent of their dark enemy. She turned to Lericanin as the distant cries of wounded hit her ears.

"We have a battle up ahead," she informed.

"Where," he eagerly scanned their surroundings.

She pointed, "Not far that way".

He spurred his horse prompting the rest to follow suit as Lisa led them into the woods and dismounted as Alister joined them and leaped off his own mount, sword and shield in hand. They walked forward, line abreast with Selyria and Faer in the rear with Lisa and soon noticed the scene that her senses were alerted to.

To the distant left stood a line of orcs with six bowmen behind nocking more arrows as a lone knight, pendants and standard hanging from his helmet and lance prepared for the final charge as his comrades died behind him on the ground.

"For the Emperor," he yelled, then charged as Lericanin maneuvered the group to the orc flank and charged also. Loosing arrows, Faer caught two of the orc archers unawares while Lisa and Selyria ran to the fallen knights. She noticed their heraldry on the surcoats and shields all bore a yellow stag rampant over blue field. Concentrating, she healed those that they could save and raced to the next as the battle raged behind them. Within a few minutes, the two healers claimed five men's lives from the dark road that they were headed to and then dragged them back into the treeline and away from their dead comrades and horses that littered the ground.

Soon, the group returned with the brave knight as he rode up and dismounted, then removed his helmet to reveal grey, short hair and van dyke that lightened his ruddy, wrinkled face and blue eyes. Grimly, he walked among his fallen fellows, kneeling and praying over each as Lericanin looked to Lisa.

"How are they?"

"They need some time to rest, but they'll be fine." she stood and scanned the four knights and squire who all lay quietly underneath blankets that were retrieved from packs and gear now stacked to the side.

Selyria approached them as the group stood nearby, laying their own weapons on the ground as Faer retrieved their mounts and led them to the new campsite.

"My lord," Gunnar began as he approached the aged knight. "We should bury them on this field and give them an honorable sending."

Tired blue eyes looked up at another veteran of many battles, and nodded. "I would appreciate your assistance in that. I'm Sir Michael Stormfrost, Baron of Cantal."

"Gunnar of Kalmar, sir."

Alister froze as Lericanin and Sceva both looked to him, then the baron. Lisa realized the possible relation as the other men approached the knight, grabbing shovels and began digging. Leading his horse within the shadow of the surrouding spruce, the baron also shoveled beside them until finally, they had buried all twelve men and their horses as the sun dipped below the horizon. Lighting torches, the group all stood around the newly filled and closed graves amidst the white ground quietly.

"Great Father, we commend these brave followers of yours to your hands and I thank you for the honor of serving with such selfless knights who had all vowed their lives to your service and that of your servant, the Emperor of Astara. Accept them into your house and tell them that I will be joining them once your task for us is done."

Soon, he joined them as Lericanin began cooking and sat on the ground near his surviving men, then looked up to Lisa and Selyria. "I am in your debt for their lives, thank you."

"We couldn't allow them to leave you here like this. It was our pleasure to help," Selyria stated.

Lisa watched as the baron removed most of his armor and finally got a chance to relax as Alister finally got the nerve to approach and kneel beside the knight. "Sir, I couldn't help but notice that we have the same last name. I'm Alister Stormfrost of Carbost."

Looking up, the older man grinned. "I thought I recognized my nephew in that face. Your father's name is Markus, is it not?"

"It is, sir. Your nephew?"

"Yes. It's been some years since I've seen him, how is he and your mother?"

"Fine. They have a farm on the southern slopes beyond the gate where I and my brother Darian grew up."

Michael nodded, patting Alister on the arm. "It's a great pleasure to finally get to meet you, Alister. I'll definitely have to take the time to visit him while I'm in the Frontier. Where are you and your friends to?"

"Exmoor. We've been given an urgent invitation from the Knight Commander there."

"Then you shouldn't keep such an important servant such as he waiting long."

"We'll wait until your men are ready to ride, sir," Lericanin volunteered. "We ran into another orc army near Navan not six days hence. I fear another invasion for the coming year."

"I and my men have been working with another group here that have been hunting mages establishing gates in the Frontier and Midlands. We've already destroyed two and their guardians in the past three months."

Sceva sighed. "I had hoped that we had seen the last of them for a while. You mentioned another group, sir?"

"They are in the area and should be in contact soon. We had been beset upon by these beasts early this morning as we rose. They ambushed my scouts so no word reached us until they arrived. But, this task was given to me and I'll see it through to the end."

"Is there any way that we might help?" Lericanin asked.

"I appreciate your offer but, you have a date with Exmoor that I wouldn't want you to neglect."

After a night's sleep, Lisa rose to a new day and checked on their patients who slept soundly and were healing quite quickly. She rolled up her blanket and tied it off on the saddle, then noticed the baron who roused, sword in hand. "Good morning, sir."

He nodded. "A fine day." He stood and stretched, then looked around as Lericanin and Alister finished their watch. "I have to ask you something," he neared. "Why the scarf?"

She hesitated. "I've been given gifts that need to be kept private, for your sake moreso than mine."

Studying her green eyes for a moment, he grinned. "You've been blessed by the Lady, that much is obvious. The green eyes and silver specks tell of Her touch and I can only imagine by your voice that such beauty would drive men mad with passion. You are not wed to any of your companions?"

"No, sir. She may have gifted me with looks, but not the capacity for wifedom. I'm still unsure of my purpose in this life other than tending to wounds and sensing danger before we are beset by it."

"Those are valuable assets, to be sure. And no doubt a great benefit to your companions. I sense that there is more than you've revealed but, I will honor your privacy. I'm just glad that you've humored an old man." He grinned and prepared himself for another day.

Soon, a quintet of riders approached, putting the camp on guard as their four knights and squire awoke to the alarm. Lisa noted the apprehension in their newly arrived guests, but little else. Their captain in field plate carried a large war mattock on his back and a longbow that she could sense were all enchanted. His horse's leather barding also told of a well traveled warrior as he smiled at the baron.

"My lord," his deep, mature voice greeted. "We've found another not far from here. It would seem that our enemy has their eyes fixed on Soderham."

Sir Michael nodded as he relaxed. "It's good to see you again, Bellicianus. I trust that you will allow our new friends here to assist destroying this one as some of my men have fallen to orcs."

Aged brown eyes scanned the campsite and his countenance fell. "I am sorry for your loss, my lord. Yes, if you trust these to help, I'll lead you to the site."

They geared and mounted up, the healed five men with them and followed the mage hunter and his unit to a quiet glen where they dismounted and crept in three groups to the site that Bellicianus pointed out through the thick trees and underbrush. Softly crunching to their prey, Lisa followed behind the usual shield wall until she noticed the scent of death. This gate wasn't being guarded by orcs, but by more trustworthy henchmen. Soon, they saw the darkly robed, young mage chanting as two undead soldiers stood by, then crouched in a defensive position as the site was attacked by three sides. She watched as the mage, surprised, began chanting and motioning with his hands. She quickly concentrated a blast into his body that sent him into convulsions as thin fingers of light coursed around his tensed frame, then dropped him to the ground as four arrows finished the job while the skeletal fighters were quickly overwhelmed and smashed to piles of dust.

As they surveyed the site, she quickly noticed that the two columns that framed the gate were camoflauged to look just like the surrounding trees. A fact not lost on anyone standing there.

"Our enemy is growing smarter," Sir Michael noted.

"Now at least we know what to look for," Bellicianus added as he turned to his resident mage that started corrupting the frames and runes that enabled them, then finally allowed the fighters to destroy both, knocking them to the ground.

Shortly afterwards, the group mounted up for departure as Sir Michael approached Alister. "Take care and may Arhus bless your journey," he patted his grandnephew on the thigh and backed.

"You as well, uncle," Alister returned. "I hope to visit with you once this nonsense is over."

"I look forward to it." He waved to them as they headed back for the highway.

Page 63 - Reminders

As they rode into the forests north of the newly renovated Fort William, Lisa began to notice the road turn northwest and realized once she saw the numerous rivers and streams among tall oak, hickory and spruce that they were well inside the Dender Swamp.

"Anyone other than me confused at our surroundings," Lisa asked as the sounds of birds flitting high above and serenading one another without the humid air, low hanging fog and scent of death.

"Why," Lericanin asked as he finished a piece of bread.

"We're within the Dender Swamp."

He, Selyria and Sceva looked around in confusion. "The Lady has returned this cursed land to it's former glory," Sceva mentioned as his green eyes drifted up to a pair of cardinals watching them ride by.

"This can't be the Dender Swamp." Lericanin's eyes also scanned the road and noticed the wooden palisade up ahead of Elias's weighstation as his bloodhouds began barking a greeting that echoed within the forest. They approached the open gate as another group of travelers sat and stood around the stable opposite the main house and tavern. Reining in their mounts, Lisa turned to notice the aged proprietor step out of the front door to the inn, gnarled staff in hand.

"Welcome friends," he greeted as he eyed both dogs run into the tavern behind him, then looked to the group. "Well, well. I thought you young ones had forgotten about us," he smiled.

"Not possible, old friend," Lericanin grinned as he approached the druid. "What happened to the swamp?"

"Elves last year campaigned here and destroyed the ghoulking and his army that they found not far southeast of here. Never thought I'd see the heraldry of Kevelaer outside of Alex's history books, but there they were. Shortly after that, things went back to the way that my father told me it was before the knight had his campaign against the witch. His curse and her magic made this forest the swamp that we all knew and loved," he stated dryly, then spit on the ground. "Might actually give me an opportunity to know and tend to the forest as he did. Also be nice to have some neighbors one day before She takes me home."

They enjoyed the hospitality of the druid and his friends for the night, then moved on to Varberg which they entered two days later.

Lisa and her horse followed the group to the right and down the narrow street to find the tavern that Avion had always spoken of when they had visited the previous time on their way to Tywyn. Alister led their horses around to the side alley to the stables as everyone else walked inside. It would be nice to have a soft bed for the night. As they walked across the wooden floors, the front door opened and Lisa felt the tension in the air rise dramatically as she turned to see a cleric leading a mob into the inn.

"There she is, grab the beast," he commanded as they fanned out and climbed over tables.

"What's amiss, sir," Lericanin and Sceva stepped up to confront the priest as Selyria and Faer flanked Lisa.

"Hand us the beast that has been attacking our children in the night and killing our livestock. Out of our way." His stern, brown eyes glared as he held his necklace tightly in one hand and staff in the other.

Men continued climbing tables and tried to outflank the group as Lisa noticed Alister enter the main door behind them, sword and shield in hand.

"We've only just arrived in town, she wasn't responsible for whatever happened to your animals or children, that I vow as a knight of Elminoir," Sceva proclaimed.

"I'll not listen to these lies that it's putting in your mouth, stand aside or by the order of the Baron of Varberg, I'll take all of you under arrest and we'll be at the beast and destroy it before she can kill anyone else."

Lisa concentrated and disappeared. While invisible, she teleported to the street outside then turned and gained Lericanin's attention mentally. "I'll meet you on the north side of town, run from these lunatics." As she quickly maneuvered through quietening streets, she heard the din of battle erupt in the tavern and the group soon remount on their horses and race from the town to meet her outside the northern gate. She lowered the invisibility and ran to her horse, jumped into the saddle and they rode into the night and disappeared into the forest.

* * *

After two weeks of evading patrols and the town of Kisa, they arrived at the next town of Jarna. A large walled establishment in it's own right, the successful baron's lands bordered the eastern Delgada Desert that hugged the Black Mountains and which Gunnar revealed held many outlaws.

Riding through the busy streets, they noticed the decorations being heaped upon the open marketplace and square as they arrived in a local inn for the night. Lisa followed them inside as she noticed an older, plump woman supervising a group of children in song as they stood on the front steps of the nearby church of Yaeby.

"We'd like several rooms, sir," Lericanin mentioned to the innkeeper.

"Alright. And here I was afraid that we wouldn't fill up tonight," he grinned, a long scar along his left cheek creasing even deeper.

"What's going on?"

Brown eyes widened. "You've been out in the wild for some time, I take it. It's the New Year celebration."

"It's Jyan the thirtieth already?" Sceva exclaimed.

"As I said, I take it you've been on the road for some time," strong hands offered their keys.

"Quite some time," Sceva answered as he glanced back out into the street through the large windows at the front of the building.

After they claimed their rooms and returned to the long, wooden table for dinner, Lisa noticed an elderly blind man walk into the room. The dirt and body odor that permeated his ragged clothing made her raise her hand to her nose as the other patrons on the edges of the nearer tables stopped conversation and watched the white haired man follow his walking stick to the edge of their table and stand near Alister and Selyria who both looked up from their plates.

"I apologize for the intrusion but, I wanted to offer my services to the Chosen," he stated, then looked up and to the left. "I'm sorry, my excitement got the better of me." Yellowing teeth smiled as he turned back to their direction as his right hand retrieved a small pouch from his belt and set it on the table between the fighter and archmage. "Wear this, it will keep you from danger, hopefully long enough. I know that these days have been filled with danger and the road ahead may bring more of the same, but know that these trials will bring a lasting peace that this world desperately needs." He bowed, glazed eyes ever forward, then turned and walked back out of the tavern.

They all watched him leave, then turned to the pouch on the table. Alister rose and headed out to follow the old man as Selyria picked up the leather bag, then concentrated on it for a moment.

"What is it," Lericanin asked.

"Nothing dangerous, thankfully." Thin fingers opened the sack and pulled out a simple necklace. Its silver pendant sported the symbol of Arhus engraved beautifully in it's face. She handed it to Sceva who also scanned it and shrugged his shoulders.

"It's been embued with two protective spells of fairly high level."

"What did he mean by the 'Chosen'?" Lericanin asked. "Was he talking to all of us or one?"

"He seemed to be addressing the group," Selyria recalled as she eyed the necklace.

"Odd." Lericanin accepted the pendant and studied it as Lisa focused on it. "There's a protection against undead and another that will destroy one within range. Someone else better wear it," she smiled.

"Hmm." Lericanin turned back to the main door to see Alister return, then put the pendant back into the pouch for a later date.

Page 64 - Night of the Long Knives

Another two and a half weeks' travel brought them to the darker town of Mellerud where Lisa could feel the taint of the Dark One within. Lericanin and the group also seemed quieter as they headed to the central part of town bustling with the afternoon traffic and business. Vendors selling all manner of goods enjoyed a rich market for many of their trades bought from far and near. As they entered the oak door underneath the wooden sign sporting a black dragon, she felt another of greater power touch her mind.

'Tia and we have been awaiting your arrival with great anticipation, Kailee. Come see us this afternoon at our home, you remember how to get here?'

'Of course. I'll see you soon.'

After Selyria handed her the key, she walked her gear upstairs and hung her backpack on the bed's post, then turned and exited to the hallway as Sceva stepped out of the room that he and Faer shared.

"I need to hunt," Lisa notified. "I'll be back in a bit."

"Alright, be careful. We'll see you soon."

She nodded, then continued on through the marketplace and out to the northeastern gate. Evading farmsteads and private homes, she meandered through the forest to finally find the modest, two-story residence buried deep within the low forested hills. The three heartbeats that she felt within were also joined by a fourth that didn't appear like the bird that was perched within the living room. His essence was much darker and more powerful and sent a shiver up her spine as Tia opened the door and ran to her. Arms wrapping around one another, they embraced as Lisa fell onto the ground with her friend.

"I've feared the worst," Tia finally revealed as she backed. Hazel-green eyes glazed in joy. "Your father, Duke William, and his wives have visited twice and notified us that you were alive and well and I've been trying to get him to take me to you, but he said that the others wouldn't be as happy to see me." Her jet black hair glistened in the sunlight as she lay beside Lisa who admired her sister. But something was different from the one that she remembered.

"How have you been," Lisa asked.

"Great," Tia turned and lay on her back, staring up into the boughs above. Lisa noted through the revealing black leather top, a brand embossed between her breasts that made Lisa rise a bit. A flaming eye stared up from her friend's lower chest.

"That isn't the tattoo that I remember," Lisa stated as her heart sank.

Tia's slender fingers carressed the symbol. "I gave myself to him when we offered my father during the festival last autumn. Not necessarily a fair trade, but my mother couldn't think of anyone better to sacrifice than a son of a bishop of Arhus." She giggled darkly. "I also met my future husband there, he's a knight of Sater and has been training for the coming campaign. He's visited a few times and I'm in love," she smiled. "How long will you be in town?"

"Probably not long. We're going north to visit a friend and we'll probably be heading back to Carbost from there," she informed as she leaned on her left elbow and watched as Tia rose to face her.

"Indulge me for a moment, I heard a rumor," she gently swept back the hood to let fall the long, fiery orange hair that also glistened in the sunlight that cast dappled spots of light onto them. She then lowered the scarf and her eyes went wide. "It is true. I understand why you wear these, men would be following you everywhere, wishing to be your servants. Oh, you have to play with this. He blessed you, use it to your advantage. Don't hide this beauty, Kailee. You could be a queen if you really wanted to."

"I don't want to. I enjoy my life just as it is. If I wanted a palace, then I never would've turned the one that you've dedicated yourself to away. That's not who I am, you know that. Neither were you."

"Oh, come on. We've been gifted with things that men die for, especially your friend, Lericanin. How many bastards has he left in towns that he's probably forgotten about? Can you see him as a monk?" She chuckled. "You keep that scarf and hood off and kingdoms would lick your boots."

Lisa half-smiled, then replaced the scarf and sat up. "I remember so many things we did and felt when we were traveling together long ago. I miss that girl that I slept beside and fought to defend."

Tia sat beside her and gazed out to the small yard that fronted her home. "That girl is dead, and this one has taken her place. For the better," she turned to Lisa. "I want you to stay with us tonight, mother and Argenya have prepared a dinner and we'd like you to join us."

Lisa hesitated for a moment. "I can stay for a while but, I have to return to the inn. They're expecting me and you don't want them finding us here."

Tia's eyes narrowed. "Why not? It might be fun." She softened. "Lisa, I still love you and would do anything for you, that hasn't changed. I don't want you to hate me for living my own life and I want you to join us if you can when I get married."

"We'll see," she nodded.

After visiting with the trio and their demon overseer, Lisa finally headed back to the inn where she found Sceva in the main room who quickly moved to her as she entered the music and revelry.

"We need your help," he led her up the stairs to Lericanin's room where she noticed her friend lying on the bed, covered in sweat. An angry wound in his left shoulder had been cleaned but she could tell immediately that the poison used would never allow it to fully heal.

"What happened," she asked, turning to the worried knight.

"The young lady that he entertained used some type of drug and then during their passion, stabbed him and fled."

"Where are the others?"

"Alister, Faer and Selyria are out trying to hunt her down, they should be returning soon."

Lisa concentrated and laid her hands on Lericanin's shoulder, trying to draw out any remaining poison and heal the wound closed and within several moments, did manage to close it. It would be a mark that he would have to live with for some time though. She sat back as he looked up to her.

"Hello."

Lisa nodded, "Hello. How are you feeling?"

"Better. You've been gone a while."

"I saw Tia and her mother. You were right, she's not the one that I remember."

He focused a bit more. "She's here?"

"Yes, outside of town. They didn't have anything to do with this, if that's what you're thinking."

His blue eyes studied her for a moment, then closed as she backed out and headed to her own room for some rest.

That following morning she arose to a quiet room as the innkeeper's wife and daughter began cooking breakfast for their guests in the main room below. She should have been here last night. Perhaps she could've stopped Lericanin from being attacked or at least caught the girl before she had escaped. Hopefully the others found her. Rising, she got dressed and headed out into the hallway and down the stairs to see Gunnar and Selyria sitting quietly at a table. Their solemn eyes rose to greet her.

"Good morning," she greeted, then sat down quietly.

"Faer's dead," Selyria informed.

The news hit her like a wall. "What, how?"

"Last night while searching for the assassin, we left him in an alleyway near the house that she fled into to get the assistance of the local cleric. When we returned, all we found was a pool of blood."

"Then we need to find him," she stated emphatically.

"We've reported the incident to the cleric and magistrate," Gunnar informed. "They're going to take care of this. Lericanin's decided to leave before more of us come up missing. He's pretty upset right now as are we all."

Lisa couldn't believe her ears. She watched as the remaining members descended the stairs, gear in hand and headed to the stables. Rising, she retrieved her own things and met them in the street out front and mounted up as they left the town behind them.

Page 65 - Just Rewards

Arriving at Exmoor greeted the group to a busy compound dedicated to the education and training of the templar of Arhus, Lisa remembered this place quite well. A wash of energy passed over her as they rode beyond the treeline that opened up to the green fields on the southern side of the large, castle-like building. Standing to the left of the road and against the river that flowed to the south, the shrine gleamed as it's white walls reflected the sunlight and she also noticed the crowd of men and horses that filled the yard between the shrine, main building and stables.

"I didn't know we were coming to a celebration," Lisa mentioned as Gunnar stopped ahead and the rest began catching up.

"Hmm," Lericanin said as his brown eyes scanned the men and their various heraldries.

Lisa turned to him as they reined in their horses and noted his apprehension. "What do you think is going on?"

"I don't know."

She walked between their mounts and led hers forward as they approached one of the stablehands.

"I'll take your mounts, my lords," he offered.

"What's going on," Sceva asked him as he handed the boy his reins.

"There's a meeting with other representatives of the various churches here. Most of these knights are men of their retinue, sir."

"Maybe we arrived at a bad time," Alister offered as he walked up and joined them.

"We'll find out, if so, we can come back another time," Lericanin said as he led them to the main building. As they strolled around through the gateway, Lisa noted the stares and nods from men and women all representing the other three churches as well as Arhus. As they made their way to the main door, it opened to reveal another knight of Exmoor, his surcoat sporting the gold shield over crossed spears on a black field and two green vines rose from the bottom and bordered either side, rising to the center.

"I was told that you had arrived. I'm Sergeant Evan, we'll see to your quarters," he motioned inside and led them to the west wing and up the stairs.

"I wouldn't think there should be any rooms left with all those we've been greeted with thus far," Lericanin mentioned.

The hardened soldier chuckled. "The Knight Commander set aside this room for you and your friends in anticipation of our arrival," he stated, then unlocked an oaken door and opened it. "If there's anything you need, let me or one of the acolytes know." He stepped aside and allowed them entrance into the large room filled with double bunks lining the outside wall to capacity.

"Would we be able to gain an audience with the Knight Commander at some point today," Lericanin asked as the group poured into the room and began putting their packs and gear down on beds.

"I'll let him know you're here and find you when he's available."

"Thank you, sergeant."

Lericanin walked in, confused as he claimed the remaining bed.

"That was nice of the Commander," Sceva mentioned as he stood near the opposite wall. "Why would we get preferential treatment?"

"I'm not sure, that's another reason I'd like to speak to him."

* * *

Lisa followed Sceva out into the central yard after exiting the western door which was the closest as they descended the stairs. She remained close to the knight of Elminoir as they walked and caught the attention of many sitting or standing within the training ground.

"You feeling any better," he asked.

"Yes, fine. That part of the highway between Mellerud and Onebro has always been a dark stretch as many times as we've traveled through it. One day we'll have to find out why it attacks certain people and not others."

As they walked, two older women stepped out of the crowd, their green robes denoted ladies of Elminoir, their greying hair, servants with many years of experience. They both stopped, wide eyed.

"Sceva?" the lighter haired woman smiled, then hugged him tightly. "We've been wondering when we'd see you again," she said, then backed allowing the darker haired woman to hold him.

"I'm sorry it's been so long, Trista. We've been all over the western Kuzomen Empire and back helping friends with various quests, Hello Vicana, how are you?"

"Much better now," she carressed his face, then backed as she eyed the lone, covered Lisa standing there quietly. Her smile melted. "Who's this?"

"I'm sorry, ladies, this is my friend, Lisa. Lisa, these are the ones that raised me, Trista and Vicana."

"Pleasure," Lisa greeted apprehensively as she could sense the power of both women.

"Any friend of our son's is a friend of ours," Trista began as she neared and shook hands. "I take it you've been trying to keep him out of trouble? A task in itself, to be sure."

Lisa chuckled. "Actually, it's he who's been trying to keep me honest."

"Lisa," Vicana extended a tanned, rough hand. "We've heard a lot about you, it's a pleasure to finally get the chance to meet you."

"I've heard a great deal about you also. Sceva's missed you both greatly."

She smiled as they both turned back to their much older charge. "So, what brings you here besides our undeniable charm?" Vicana asked.

Sceva grinned. "That was it, actually," he laughed. "No, we've come on the invitation of the Knight Commander who helped us defeat a demon near Skien some months ago. He made it seem like it was urgent," his green eyes scanned the busy yard. "I hadn't expected this kind of reception however."

Trista smiled, her tender face creased by many years in the field. "The representatives from the kingdoms of Baden, Alle and the Midlands have gathered to trade information and try to find a way to stem the tide of orc and Saterist incursions into our lands. Working together, hopefully we can determine the causes and root them out before things get out of hand."

"We'll certainly help in any way we can, just point us in a direction."

* * *

That night, the group attended the large service in the shrine that was packed to capacity. Lisa had never been allowed to attend during a worship service and Elias conducted this night personally, his voice booming within the high ceiling. They sang and prayed while Lisa shook nervously within the power of the immense room, waiting for her very soul to be torn out. Being at the back of the room didn't help much either as they finally ended their thanks to the deity of justice.

"I'd like to ask my friends, Lericanin Averitt and Alister Stormfrost to approach the front, please," the Knight Commander's voice boomed. Lisa watched the nervous duo squeeze from between them and stepped out into the central aisle and walked up to the dais.

"Take a knee, brothers." He watched as they did so and Lisa could sense their apprehension even from here as she finally relaxed from the spritual onslaught. "I've been given the honor of serving with some of the bravest templar and paladin in the realm. Arhus has kept these lands safe with their blood, sweat and devotion for the past forty-seven years since our Father led us here to build Exmoor. While praying a month ago, my champion charged me with this task. He has watched your unselfish acts throughout these lands as well as within the Kuzomen Empire. You have extended your kindness and service to people whom we knew not long ago as our own enemies. Charitable acts that have not gone unnoticed, not only with the poor in money, but also those poor in spirit. You've stood by those who have been blessed by the gods in many different ways and taken them in as your own kin and I am proud to say, you've both acted as knights with honor without the benefits of that title for long enough." He turned to his Captain in the traditional robes of a paladin who held a sword on a red velvet pillow. Raising it into the air, Elias touched both on the shoulders.

"In the name of our most gracious Father, I grant thee both the titles of Knight of Arhus, protectors of justice with all of the benefits of the same. From this day hence, you both will be brothers-in-arms with all men who have dedicated their lives to His service. We will come to your aid whenever needed and expect the same in return. Rise, Knights, and be recognized." He replaced the sword onto the pillow and hugged both of them after placing necklaces around their necks. As they stood, he smiled then turned them to the crowd who cheered loudly.

Page 66 - New Recruits

Lisa's senses were overwhelmed by the horses and people all packed within the large compound and around her as she woke to a new day. At least she didn't also have to endure the dwarve's snoring along with everything else. She smiled to herself as she sat up and looked down the other beds to her friends resting in the shadow of the morning light. Lericanin's eyes opened as she looked at him.

"Morning," she greeted quietly.

"Hello. Some night, huh?"

She nodded. "Congratulations by the way."

"Thanks, I'm still in shock by all this. It was unexpected."

"I guess this makes the rest of us your men-at-arms. Except for Selyria and I, who are girls," she joked.

He grinned. "No, you're all still my friends. I'm not looking for a retinue."

* * *

After being seen off by not only Elias and his captain, Trista, Vicana and several other of their close friends, the group set off to return to Carbost which took the better part of two and a half months. As they passed through Fort William one afternoon, Sceva returned to the campsite with a confused, quiet face.

"What is it," Gunnar asked as he sat down beside Selyria who wrote into her journal.

"I just received a letter from an elf addressed to us," he reached into his white, woolen shirt and produced the folded parchment. "It also refers to us as the 'Chosen' and that we're not in this fight alone. She refers to a coming Dark Age and says that it will sweep the world in war."

"Who is it from," Lericanin asked, looking up from his cook pot as the others listened intently.

"It's not signed but, the handwriting is too beautiful to be from a man. The messenger stated that she was his Lady and that was it. It's signed 'A Friend'." He opened it again and reread it silently, then handed it to Selyria.

The archmage studied it herself. "Interesting, this is the second time someone has referred to us as the Chosen. I'm still confused on that point," she looked up to Sceva. "Has your champion said anything about this new title?"

He shook his head. "Nothing definitive, other than we will be key in possibly helping to end this Dark Age," he informed, then looked to Lericanin. "How about you?"

"Same."

Lisa sat and listened to their discussion, then thought to her own guide. 'Why are we being singled out?'

'Because of the personality of the group. How many others in this world have done what you've done, chosen to travel with the same type of individuals from many various backgrounds and sought out dangers? It's the makeup of the group like many others throughout history that attracts such grand adventures willingly. Without brave people such as yourselves, this world would be dominated by the one that you've tried hard to avoid, and his minions.'

She sat quietly for a while, musing over the past few years and how things had all transpired to bring them to this point. Green eyes scanned the group and she wondered how many of them would be able to become older and look back on these days with her. Pushing those thoughts out of her mind as emotion began to well, she busied herself with their discussion.

* * *

As they arrived at the farm, crops grew high in the late spring day, children ran through fences, chasing their siblings to the nearby pond after finishing their chores, neighbors stood near their barns and talked. Jutting from the midst of the tall, green crops, the Stormfrost farm greeted them with the sounds of axe on wood near the front of the barn as they rode up the main road. Darian rose, his lean muscles glistening in the noonday sun as he caught sight of the group and waved.

"Dad," his deepening voice called. "They're back!"

Markus walked out through the main door as Les ran out behind him, walking at six months old to the amazement of them all. Lisa dismounted as they moved to the porch.

"How are you,sir," Lericanin greeted.

"Fine. Good to have you all back," his eyes scanned the group and soon noticed the vacant saddle among them. "What happened?" his voice softened as Darian arrived to take Lisa's reins.

"Long story," Lericanin avoided as he neared Les, who began crying. He picked her up and held her close as she lay her head on his shoulder.

Lisa noticed Sir William step out from the barn and approach them as the rest walked their mounts towards him. She noted a more solemn face with him also.

"Good to see you again," Darian interrupted.

She nodded, "Good to be back, for as long as it will last. What's wrong with William?"

"We had a visitor while you were away that he apparently didn't approve of. I'll let him tell you about that."

She walked with him up to William as the knight approached the corner of the porch, turned to her and pushed out a smile. "Lisa, glad to have you back."

"What happened while we were gone?"

His smile faded, "Not one for beating around the bush, I should be used to that by now." His eyes drifted to Lericanin. "I have something for you, when you get settled in."

The new knight of Arhus handed Les to Selyria and headed inside to put his things away. Afterwards, they met William in the hallway upstairs as Alister, Gunnar, Sceva and she stood nearby. He handed Lericanin a nicely carved, mahogany box. "Arlen came by and said he would've wanted you to have this."

Lericanin hesitated for a moment, then opened the box to reveal Galerik's tankard within. He smiled, pushing away the emotion of the moment, "That bastard".

"Arlen said that he and most of his men fell protecting the children in the church. Navan was soon saved by the army of Carbost and the orcs were routed two days later to the south."

"Hmm." Lericanin quietly walked back to his room and placed the momento with his own things as Lisa followed William downstairs and to the front porch where they sat down in the cool of the day. She allowed him a moment.

"So, what else happened while we were gone?"

He smiled as his eyes drifted down the road that joined the farm with the main road. "There was a girl from the Macau lands had joined us during the voyage with Allen and his nephew by the name of Yasmina. She had been given to Gunnar as a servant by her husband, or whatever. Once here, he decided that he didn't wish her services any longer and in shame, she committed suicide in the forest," he pointed south. "Two weeks ago a man rode in from there and wished to know her whereabouts, so I led him to the body where we buried her. Initially, I was still remembering what they did to my wife and had actually hoped that he would offend me in some way, but he didn't. After wrapping her for travel, he wished me a long and healthy life." He looked down to his hands in shame. "I wanted to kill him and he smiled and wished me well as he rode off."

"They have totally different traditions than we do. He may have wanted to kill you after finding out that she was dead, but he would never have said so. Macau are raised that way from birth, its a religious tradition of theirs. They believe that when they die, their security for the next life is how they treated all men during this one," she explained and noticed that the information didn't sate the anger that the knight of Ruse felt for over a year now.

* * *

Getting settled into their lives off-duty, Lisa enjoyed the afternoon two days later under the shade of the oak that commanded the southern yard beside the main house. Playing with Les in the tall grass and teaching her about the bugs that crawled on the tree in elvish seemed second nature to them both. She remembered Faer speaking to her in elvish and she tried, in her own way to keep his memory alive for Les'Maura.
Soon, the sound of a large group of horse borne individuals arrived with Lericanin and Sceva which prompted Lisa to lean forward and strain to see the armed host of teenagers behind them. She rose, picked up Les and carried her charge to the front corner of the house as they all dismounted. Two girls and six males, all under the ages of seventeen stood nervously as they grabbed their reins and awaited instruction.

"Take your mounts to the barn and see to them, we'll be there in a moment," Lericanin instructed.

She watched as they all led their steeds around passed her, their eyes nodding to the hooded and scarved woman holding the equally curious child in her arms. Studying them out of habit, she noted that the two girls had a magical aura about them. She spun to eye both knights as they carried sacks into the house.

"What's going on," she asked.

Lericanin rolled his eyes and continued through the front door.

After leaving Les inside with Misses Stormfrost, she continued back to the barn with the others as they all congregated within the stable area. Gunnar stepped in, confusion on his face also as Lericanin stepped between the veterans and the greenhorns.

"I first want all of you to know," he addressed the younger group. "This ride with us isn't going to be a picnic. People have died that traveled with us over the past three years. This world is unforgiving and full of evils that not even bards sing about correctly. I've only heard of some of the things that you've listened to and I can assure you, not even the first few days with us will prepare you for what's to come. We've been hunted by demons, dragons and armies of orcs. I know you told me earlier about your relationships with some of the others, but out there we all have to trust one another without hesitation for one day, the person's life standing beside you may be in your hands. There is no room for error or petty squabbles. Our survival depends on our willingness to give our lives for one another and I'm not about to allow any of you to jeopardize any one of my friends that I've known and bled with. Understood?"

They nodded as a few answered, "Yes, sir".

He sighed, hands on hips. "Introduce yourselves to my friends."

Lisa's eyes noticed the wiry, shorter male quickly look to the group. "I'm Justyn Cooper of Carbost," his blonde hair and hazel-brown eyes stood out immediately from his thinner frame.

"Kevin Tanner, also of Carbost," the tall, healthy fighter introduced. His longer brown hair and brown eyes scanned the group as one of them. Premature, she thought, knowing the men that she traveled with.

"Arthur Miller, I was raised in Navan and only recently arrived with my family after the attack," his light brown hair and blue eyes also stood out as Lisa glanced to the second shortest boy in the group who had an air of nobility about him.

"I'm Guy Sebastian," he produced a letter and walked it to Sir William. "I was told to give you this, sir."

William opened it and read the letter addressed to him personally. Lisa delved and noted that the boy was the nephew of the magistrate of Carbost and had asked Sir William to take Guy under his wing and train him.

Guy stepped back to the group as the next boy introduced himself. "I'm Darvin Wainwright," his quiet confidence and necklace that sported the symbol of Arhus caught her attention immediately. His brown hair neatly combed and trimmed as green eyes nodded to Lericanin.

"I'm Victor Simaunus, born and raised in Thomson but we moved to Carbost last spring." Taller than everyone else, the son of a local merchant's black hair and hazel green eyes shone in the dim light that permeated the wooden beams from above. Her eyes then drifted to the shorter girl, bow across her back and aura of essence about her.

"I'm Alandria Townsend of Borge'," she introduced quietly. Hazel green eyes shimmered and accented the long brown hair that fell across her shoulders as she turned to eye the final female whose aura of varying colors reminded her of Selyria immediately.

"I'm Galena of Bakony. I was also asked to give Lady Selyria this," she mentioned as she walked over and handed their resident archmage a letter. She had been directed by the kingdom's jura to train Galena in the arts of all three realms. Lisa noted the nod from the older, more experienced student of Bukhara, a world renowned magical college run by high elves.

"Alright," Lericanin continued, towering over the whole group in the room. "I'm Lericanin Averitt of Anderslough." He turned to William.

"Sir William, Knight of Ruse in the Kuzomen Empire."

"Sir Gunnar, Knight of Kalmar and after these introductions are over, I want all of you to unload your backpacks in the yard," he turned to his wife.

"Selyria."

"Alister Stormfrost of Carbost."

"Sceva of Sonvico in the Kingdom of Baden, Knight of Elminoir." He then looked to Lisa.

"I'm Lisa. I hope that all of you reconsider your choice to ride with us because if these guys don't kill you with drill and instruction, our journey's might. And I don't want any more lives on our hands. But, if you do decide to stick it out with us, I believe that you couldn't find a group of more able, more knowledgable people than those I travel with."

They all studied her for a moment, then were startled by Gunnar's commanding voice. "Outside, unload those packs and let me see them! Now!"

Lisa backed up as Gunnar led the older group behind them into the yard. She lagged behind as Alister and Darian stood alongside.

"Arhus help these kids," Alister mentioned, chuckling.

"I know several of them," Darian informed. "I went to school with Kevin and Justyn. Keep your eyes on them, they've both got tempers."

"That won't last," Alister stated confidently as they watched each of the newly acquired soldiers unload their packs and display items on the ground. Boot camp had begun.

Page 67 - Hell Week

Lisa sat outside with the younger group as they rested in the front yard eating dinner as the moonlight picked out sweaty hair and darkened clothing covered in dirt smeared from the day's calesthenics. They noticed that she wasn't eating with the group and she allowed them to process Gunnar and Lericanin's drills before she revealed her true nature. One thing at a time.

"You never mentioned where you were from," Alandria mentioned, sitting to her right. Lisa turned to her.

"I was found in the ruin of Laksay by the group and until I met my grandparents who live here in Carbost, I didn't know any other home. My mother lives in the Black Mountains with my family and my father is dead."

"I'm sorry to hear that."

She avoided her personal feelings on that matter. "We've passed through Borge' several times, it's nice. What's it like growing up around dwarves?"

Shrugging her shoulders, Alandria wiped her forehead with her hand and wiped it off on the grass. "They make amazing weapons but, stay to themselves mostly. I didn't get to know any of them well, I spent most of my time in the woods with my parents. My mother, Bridget is a druid and my father a ranger who used to serve the Baroness of Carbost as a scout. He taught me the bow and tracking, she how to handle animals and train them."

"So, you know how to hunt then?"

"Yes, ma'am."

Lisa nodded. "During our trips, I'll further your training and teach you how to hunt even in the dark."

"I'd love to learn. Thank you."

* * *

After several laps around the edge of the fifty acre farmland, the normal scheduled opening to a new day for the past month, Gunnar and William led the group into the forest for more laps in the pond where Lericanin and Sceva joined to begin weapons training to see how they fared. Lisa stood nearby as they sparred in the grass before the barn and out of the way of Darian's daily chores. As they squared off on one another with the wooden swords and their own shields, Justyn and Kevin proved their desire to please could erupt into real fighting that their drill instructors stood by and watched for a time, then stepped in and broke up. Both red faced, they finally relaxed as Gunnar faced them.

"Boys, that needs to be kept for a real enemy. Infighting will destroy a unit faster than anything, even your adversary. Once cohesion breaks down, the battle is already lost before the first arrow is loosed. Understand me?"

"Yes, sir," they replied in unison, hearts still beating out a rhythm that Lisa could almost feel herself.

As they graded the group as a whole, Darvin came out the most knowledgeable with bladed weapons. Alandria took the field with her bow as Arthur shined with polearms. Each had their areas of expertise and soon had it drilled into them to learn from the others and work as a team.
The afternoon of the last day, Gunnar walked out into the partly clouded yard as they ate a lunch and relaxed from the morning's run and workout.

"After you are done eating, I want you to each grab a shovel and head into the forest. Dig a six by three by six foot deep hole and I want it done by dinner, or you're not eating. Who's in charge for the week?"

"I am, sir," Justyn raised his hand.

"I want you to report to me when the whole group is done."

"Yes, sir."

After the core group rested and ate dinner in the dining and living room of the Stormfrost home, Lisa sensed Alandria arrive and knock on the front door, then step in. "We're done, sir," she informed.

"Alright," Gunnar stated as they all looked up from their plates. "Tell them to now fill them in."

Lisa noted the ranger's face droop, nod then disappear back through the door as she closed it. She admired the quiet resilience that the young girl had, a trait that she had noted in all of them driven by their will to please and shine above the rest.

"I thought Justyn was supposed to report back," William mentioned.

Gunnar eyed the knight of Ruse, "We'll address that later".

Markus chuckled as he ate and Lisa turned to notice the older sergeant of the Carbost army smile.

"What is it," Margaret grinned.

"It just brings back memories, that's all. I remember doing the same thing to new troops that I was given. Mucking out stables, digging latrines, cleaning up after meals. The same things that I went through as the new recruit."

Once dinner had finished, they all crept out to the dig site as Lisa slowly slid through the underbrush to see the younger group within torchlight as they filled in their holes. Gunnar lay behind the tree nearby as Selyria and the rest of the group also hid within the shadows of the forest around them.

Suddenly, the ground nearby rumbled as a form emerged and walked towards them as they stood and stared. Justyn, Kevin and Galena jumped into their holes as the rest went for weapons and Galena prepared a spell. As they attacked the earth elemental that Selyria had sent, they noticed that the weaker creation soon disintegrated back to the ground as Gunnar stepped out with the others in tow. He shook his head as the hidden trio peeked up from their hides.

"What were you three thinking. The others stood and fought to save your lives, you should've stood with them." They climbed out and stood nearby, eyes to the ground. "Now, what I want you to do is finish the job you started, get to it."

As they finished filling in their narrow trenches, Lericanin and the group cooked them dinner and joined them within the campfire light. Lisa sat beside Alandria after they had cleaned up and joined the veterans, then accepted bowls of stew and bread from Lericanin and Sceva. They were tired, but still in the fight to graduate their training that would only pale in comparison to the life that awaited them beyond the gates and walls of Carbost.

"I want you all to know that you've done a good job," Gunnar began. "The mental toughness and physical strength needs to be a habit for you to survive out there. Those things will save your life and keep us from having to worry ourselves about your safety and whether or not you can keep up with us. You have the benefits of things that some of us never did, someone preparing us for what's to come. Not everything can ready you for every situation, but at least you've got a veteran group who's here to learn from. I had to learn war during war amidst the dying friends, severed limbs and gore all around me for years as well as inside the walls of Fort William. I've been involved in distant battles and seen things over the past twenty-four years that I wouldn't wish on anyone."

"We've all experienced things that we wished we could forget," Sceva leaned in. "You'll get used to death but, seeing the manner of it will be overwhelming and that's also why all of us are here for one another. Those memories can keep you from being able to function when you're needed the most. Myself, Lericanin and Alister are all now knights of Elminoir and Arhus, counseling is part of our job and we're here for any and all of you whenever you need us."

They nodded as they ate, enjoying their late meal as Lisa looked to each in turn and sighed.

"Since we've been together, I've become comfortable enough with most of you and I think it's time that you knew a bit more about me. You've wondered about the scarf and hood, those I can't explain fully other than to say that I've been gifted with many things after entering a cave for my sire. It wasn't until two and a half years ago, when the group found me that I had been informed that I'm half vampire."

Eyes shot up as Darvin nearly choked. Guy looked to William as Lericanin and Alister eyed the younger group for reactions.

Alandria turned to her, "But you can walk in daylight".

Lisa's green eyes glanced to her charge. "I'm only half. I do have the hunger and can do many of the things they can, but there are many things that I can't do."

"Like what?" Galena asked.

"They still live the lives they did before being turned with the exception of when they sleep and where. I still feel the same things you do, to a greater degree even. My senses can reach out beyond normal but I can't love like you do. I will live for a long time alone."

"This...this isn't possible," Darvin set his bowl on the ground in front of him. "Evil can't abide with the good, it says so in the Book."

"Lisa isn't evil," Lericanin corrected sternly. "You've been around her this past month, what has changed about her? She's done nothing that would label her as one of them. I've prayed to Arhus on this matter many times and he's directed us to protect her as one of us. If he says so, then she's not evil, is she?"

Darvin shook his head as he mused, green eyes to the ground and Lisa could hear him recycling verses in his mind. Most that made her nervous.

"Is this going to be a problem, Darvin," Alister queried.

Sighing, the orphan looked up to the farmer and shook his head. "No, sir. It's just that, the paladins and templar that I've known in Soderham said that vampires use all manner of spells to trick and deceive and then feed on the mesmerized victim. They're animals that were once human."

"Normal vampires are," Lisa stated. "I however know several that don't fit that mold. I agree with you that the majority of my kind should be destroyed but, you need to allow your heart to judge for you instead of narrow minded dogma."

His brow furrowed as it sank to narrowing eyes.

"Let me see your Book," Lericanin held out his hand.

"Sure," Darvin produced it from his backpack and handed it to the large captain across the campfire. Lericanin quickly stuffed into his own small pack and eyed the young boy.

"You've learned under the priests and knights of Arhus, now let Arhus himself teach you through life itself."

Darvin stared dumbly for a moment, then accepted his fate.

After a good night's rest, the group began making preparations to head to Ruse and help William discover the truth behind some recent dreams as Lisa noted a lone rider approach the front of the house. She walked up with Alandria, Selyria and Galena and sensed the half-elf as he smiled.

"Good afternoon, I'm Craban. Do you ride with Sceva of Sonvico?"

"Yes, how do you know him," Selyria asked.

"I was informed by my father's friend some time ago shortly after you had ridden through Fort William and I seek to join you."

Lisa noted the unique aura about him that shimmered white, blue and red also. They could use another mage with perhaps a wider range of spells that they didn't have between them.

Selyria chuckled. "Why not, the rest of the barony is along for the ride."

Page 68 - Trial By Fire

As they departed Carbost, the group took the southern route this time to pass through the southern duchy capitol of Zariva. Largely rebuilt after taking the brunt of the attacks, the newer stone walls and homes that fronted the southern half of the city beginning at the marketplace was obvious in contrast to the northern. Lisa led a third of the team to another inn that they found rooms in as the others had already booked many of their accomodations. Now being a unit of sixteen, they would have to get used to this. She also noted a quieter Lericanin as they entered the northern gates and as she walked through the vendor stalls, finally took the time to ask.

"What's bothering you," she slid beside him as they passed a wagon full of spices and other herbs.

His blue eyes stared to the keep's parapets to the northeast. "She's married to the duke's son. I found out some time ago."

Lisa gazed up to the grey tower that was visible as the palace was somewhat larger. "I see. Any chance that you'd be able to visit?"

He chuckled, "No. Her father hates me and I can only imagine her husband won't be asking me out to hunt any time soon".

"Not if he's smart," she grinned to herself. "I've heard you pray for Nyrellia before, she must've made an impression."

He sighed and muddled his mind with shopping.

* * *

After two and a half months riding through towns that brought back a flood of memories, the group finally left the eastern border of the Davos Kingdom and arrived at the busy town of Portsmouth. Straddling the Vijose' River, the merchant haven also sat on the shores of the Oka Straits and not only enjoyed trade from various southern kingdoms, the baron also had to defend his port from pirates that lurked within the central islands that dotted the strait.

Surprisingly, they found an inn that was large enough for the group. Alister led most into the stables with him as they tended to their horses as well as those of the rest of the group. Lisa sat in the immense dining area of the tavern and enjoyed the floorplan that measured the same as the Crystal Palace. Sceva sat across from her and nursed a cider as the others tended to their various shopping.

"So, how's Alandria coming along?"

"I've enjoyed having someone to tutor in other than languages. Your Kuzin is coming along well, by the way," she smiled.

He raised his tankard. "I have a good teacher. It's been hard for me to choose one to mentor as some of you have. I think it's best that I spread my general knowledge to as many as will listen, right now." Taking a long sip, he lowered the pewter cup on the table.

"Taking Alister and Lericanin under your wing is a full time job in itself, no doubt. I know they appreciate all you will pass on to them."

He nodded. "I remember my first months of being a knight of the Lady, how confusing it was sometimes knowing what I could accomplish where and with whom. Being knights of the church doesn't carry the same weight that William enjoys but, it definitely has its advantages."

"It's amazing at how young they are, then I remember hunting and trying to survive at half their age. Alister and Tia began at their age also, it's just hard to imagine them coming with us right now."

Brow raised as he glanced to the table, "I know. They look like children to me but then I remember that fourteen year olds are marrying and creating families. Put in that perspective, they're the right age to begin their lives on the road."

* * *

As they slept, Lisa noted the tension rise in the town as voices downstairs with the innkeeper warned of attack. She sat up and shook Alandria in the bed next to her.

"Get up, trouble," she warned, then ran to begin knocking on doors to rally the troops.

As they strapped on armor, Alister led them into the streets where the militia was seen running towards the docks, sending their families to the keep.

"Let's find out where they need us the most," Lericanin directed as he jogged left and around the inn to eventually find a group of armored men near a large warehouse.

"What news, friends?"

"Pirate raid," an older gentleman informed. "Can you help us guard these goods from them?"

"Certainly. How many are there?"

"I've heard they've landed several hundred men, after the stores and whatever else they can find, no doubt."

Gunnar and Lericanin began organizing the group and headed to the northwestern corner of the large stone structure as fires leapt from the dock and nearby homes and offices. Lisa eyed Alandria as she could feel the apprehension and nervous adrenaline pumping in all eight of their newest additions. She laid her right hand on the archer's shoulder. "You'll be fine. Just remember everything that your father told you about firing at any other game."

Soon, the fighting roared their way as a large group of cutthroats charged their position. Clash of steel on shield, yelling insults and soon the screams of the injured and wounded found their group on the winning side. Holding firm behind their shield wall, Lisa mentally calmed Alandria and helped her focus initially, then allowed the young ranger to fight on her own as Justyn, Kevin and Darvin cleared the enemy before them as Gunnar stepped through the breach and attacked the veteran sailors from behind and soon routing the remaining thieves. Giving chase, Lericanin eyed the junior team.

"Stay with Gunnar and Craban, go!"

Lisa watched as Alandria loosed another volley as Galena motioned and released a shower of fire onto the retreating men that claimed a number of them before they disappeared beyond the far corner.

Alandria let out a sigh.

"Are you alright," Lisa asked.

She nodded, then saw the dead and dying on the hard packed road before them and soon became nauseated. Turning, Lisa followed her friend to the corner of the building as she got sick.

Soon after, the remaining men regrouped at the inn. She noted a variety of emotions as some went to bed, others cleaned up and sat on the bench within the dining hall while Justyn pumped himself up and congratulated the rest of the group. Their first trial had gotten them through with only minor cuts and scratches which Lisa and Selyria took care of quickly as the morning sun broke the horizon to pierce much of the dark smoke that rose into the still dark sky.

Page 69 - Crossing Boundaries

Two days shy of Ruse, the group set up camp as Lisa strolled over to Sceva as he removed the saddle, bit and bridle from his horse and allowed it to graze. His green eyes turned to her and smiled.

"Hello. Not much longer now to a bed," he grinned as he rubbed the small of his back.

Lisa smiled. "Can I speak to you for a moment?"

"Of course."

She motioned to the forest beyond and they walked for a moment. "I've been contacted mentally by my father and he was wondering if you would meet with Tasha."

He stopped for a moment. "Why?"

"She wishes to speak with you."

He deliberated for a moment mentally. "If you come with me, sure."

* * *

They walked into the dense forest for a bit and soon stopped as Lisa could feel the pulse of magic that suddenly emanated beyond sight and soon, a gorgeous brunette stepped out, her long green dress flowed with long strides.

"Hello, Sceva. It's good to see you again and I'm glad that you decided to meet with me. It means a lot," she began. "I'm flattered that you would trust me enough to meet with me. I've asked Lisa to be present to put you at ease and to be fair, as you can guess, I'm not alone. First off, I was wondering if you wanted me dead just as the others do? By others, specifically Alister, Gunnar and Lericanin. You see, I don't understand why they hate me as they do, what did I do to warrant this? I am indirectly responsible for Alister being saved from that dragon and I also come to warn you about the evil army mustering in the Shadow Range and to save your lives. I come to you with these questions because I know that you think for yourself and don't blindly follow others."

Sceva motioned to a fallen tree and sat down, then waited for Tasha to follow suit as Lisa knelt against an oak nearby. "Tasha, it's nice to see you again. Yes, I assumed that you would not be alone, but I also assumed that if for no other reason, Sir William would stay uninvolved to honor the conventions of parley. Since he is also a subject of our conversation as your sire, he is welcome to join us as far as I'm concerned." They three looked to the low boughs and bushes that shrouded where Lisa could feel him standing, but he didn't materialize.
"Tasha, I do not want you dead. I cannot speak for the others, though I suspect that their apparent hatred comes from a combination of reasons. What I can say is that I am dedicated to uphold the precepts of the Lady Elminoir. She commands that I give no passage to servants of the Dark One or to those who seek to use nature for evil means. So, if I were to want you dead, it would be for the same reasons now as when you were fully human - your actions and your allegiance."
"I look at you and I see someone that I used to know as one person, but who comes to me now as someone else - something else. The Lady has guided me to understand that each person - even a vampire - makes their own choices. We are, each one of us, a result of the choices we have made, and our choices are affected by the company we keep. My decision of how to react to you, Sir William, or even Lisa is based on what I know of you and what I see in your actions. Here are the problems that I have. Duke William used me and others of our group against our will back in Carbost. He risked our lives and used us to hurt and kill several of the guards at the keep, even though someone of his power could have found a different way. He ruled a duchy that actively harbored servants of the Dark One, which at best demonstates ambivalence, and at worst reveals him as a devotee. You, formerly devoted to Arhus, gave yourself willingly to become a creature that your own church denounces. You have taken up residence with someone who is definitely in allegiance with followers of the Dark One and is possibly in league with the Dark One himself. I'm sure you can understand why I might have a few problems with all this and be obligated to act against you if I learn that your allegiance is opposed to mine."

"Your answer is as I thought it would be. You see, I have also been studying the goddess and I know that she is proud of you. It is as you say, our actions are our own and I take full responsibility for those I've made. I tell you that as I sit here I am not a follower of Sater and my only allegiance is to my husband and my new family. In fact, we are on the Dark One's black list also. Had you heard that Warwick is destroyed? We believe that he ordered it himself. As to my husband using you and your friends, he believed that his daughter was in danger and did what any father would do, use the tools at hand to save her. May I remind you that it was because of Lericanin's murder of his own brother that put her in that position to begin with. Had he been an honorable man, he would've stayed and answered for his crimes and your friend Avion would still be alive. As to Warwick, I lost many friends and their families when the city fell including many children," she turned as her hazel-brown eyes glistened and soon composed herself.
"Not all of those people were followers of the Dark One, they were refugees that were escaping persecution and came to Warwick for safety. As to the church, there are many sides to it, I've discovered. The gods use all of us to their own ends and with their own agendas and have no problems with people thinking that they live by their own free will. As to my giving myself to William, women give themselves to their husbands every day and all over the world. Even though I'm changed, I still feel love, pain and pleasure. The only difference is that I'll be feeling them forever. I respect you most of all, Sceva. I also respect Sir William for offering his home to Lisa, he is very much like you. As to my allegiances, what can I say to make you believe me? I only want to live my life in peace with the man and family that I love. What's wrong with that? If I were a monster, I would've taken revenge for the attack on me at the gates of the Shadow Range when I was coming to inform the group of danger. Alister's family lives outside of the gates of Carbost as well as Lericanin's love in Zariva. But, we haven't done anything in retribution."
"The moment that I shared with Gunnar was out of lonliness and now I know, a huge mistake. I needed to feel a part of the group and was treated like a whore. If I were evil, why did I not strike at his wife? She then saved Lisa's life several times and I owe her mine in return and I promise that you and the group as a whole will never know evil from us in any shape, form or fashion. William loves his daughter as do we all. Lisa is also one of us. You've embraced her and shun us. Also, tell Lericanin that the sweet young thing that stabbed him was not Tia's mother nor anyone from that house. You've all met Sater's followers in everyday situations and didn't even know it."

Sceva listened intently, then answered. "Yes, I heard about the attack on Warwick and that it was likely ordered by Sater. You have my condolences, please also extend them to your husband. I well understand that many died, both followers of Sater and not. Unfortunately, that is the very nature of the Dark One - he is a greedy, selfish god who will destroy those he finds to be unuseful or in the way of his plans, regardless of whether they follow him or not. That is why the other gods oppose him."

Lisa concentrated and mentally touched the mind of William who sat, intently listening to the verbal airing out. "How are you," she asked.

She felt his smile and ease of spirit. "I'm fine, love. We all miss you very much but, I'm glad that you've found solace in your friends and have taken one under your wing. You should continue to train those worthy of your talents and time. I hope that she will make you proud. Tasha needed this time to get some things off her chest and if things get out of hand, I'll spirit her away hastily. It's taking her some time to get used to her new role in the world so I thought that this would be a good opportunity for her to do so. And, I'm glad that Sir Sceva allowed her this time. He's an honorable man and I'm glad that you have his influence in your life. It's important that you realized that not all men of the churches are as blind as some. I only wished that things could've been different for you."

"In what way?"

"That you could've known love that I share with my wives. But, I've come to realize during our talks together that you've been given a special place in the world and have the heart to pass on that knowledge that you've been given. I've appreciated your insights to the history of our kind, it was very enlightening, as well as tragic."

She smiled as Tasha and Sceva continued trading their philosphies of life and religion. "Tell my other mothers that I said hello and perhaps when time allows, I can visit you all again."

"I'll do that and I long for that day that we can be a family again."

She broke her mental bond with the duke as Tasha and Sceva rose and hugged one another.

"I do not feel you rejected me, the fact that you've come proves that," Tasha stated as she backed. "I hope that we can talk again, I've enjoyed this time with you and I wish you well and success with your journey. If you wish to contact me again, just let Lisa know and we'll arrange it." She reached into a leather pouch on her beltline and took out a silver, rope pendant on a silver chain and handed it to Sceva. "Please, give this to Selyria as a wedding present for me and tell them congratulations. I also want to thank her for what she's done for Lisa. You may wish to give it to her in private, I'm not sure Gunnar would approve if he knew where it came from. Thank you again for meeting with me and my husband extends his gratitude also. Goodbye." She hugged Lisa for a moment, turned and walked back into the forest as Sceva lead her back towards the camp.

He eyed the necklace and stopped. After he closed his eyes, she felt the focus of power and realized that he was trying to perceive power on the necklace itself. Lisa did the same and found nothing.

"I don't feel any latent magic on the gift," she assured. "I think this is her way of trying to apologize for her choices in life. She misses her family back in Couronne and adventuring with us and is trying to settle her guilt."

He nodded, "I understand that, we've all made decisions in our lives that we wish we could take back, but that's how we learn in life. Some of us just make decisions that can't be rescinded and that can affect many others around us, for good or ill."

Page 70 - Unexpected Gift

Lisa sat on the ground next to Alandria as Lericanin readied dinner, Gunnar supervised the younger men to their defenses, Selyria and Galena continued the younger wizard's training and Alister tended to the horses. She had been enjoying the busier life, it had made the days and endless roads seem less dull as they pressed on to Sir Williams' estate that they should reach the following day.
After they ate, Lisa noted the beating of large wings approaching and the smell of a large creature. She quickly sat up and focused to notice the peaceful, business-like emotions of the immense steed as it soon set down on the darkened road not far to her right, beyond the shallow treeline.

"Visitor," she announced as a hooded and cloaked man walked to their camp as Justyn and Kevin stood, bows drawn.

"Halt," Justyn challenged as the tall, thin man stopped.

"I wish to speak to one named Alister, I have dispatches to deliver to him," the odd accented voice stated clearly as Lericanin and the older men stepped up to the edge of the camp and Lisa also noticed that his steed took to flight and disappeared to the north. She also noted that their visitor was an elf.

"From whom," Lericanin asked.

"My lady and an old acquaintance of yours, Isynyrra." He pulled his hood back to reveal sharper features, brown eyes and long brown hair.

Lericanin nodded and motioned to Alister who stood quietly to his left. "Justyn, Kevin, lower your bows."

As the guards did so, the messenger approached the knight of Arhus and handed him two folded pieces of parchment which he opened and read. She noted the intelligence in the tall figure, his green robe fell down over nicely tailored, deep blue jacket, white silk shirt and brown riding pants and boots with a small backpack which hung under his left arm.

Alister looked up to their guest, then to Lericanin. "He's here to create an item in return for the bow that you're crafting out of the dragon claws that we gathered. The author of this letter states that the war has been reported all over the world and they've already pre-empted several strikes against certain camps on their borders."

Lericanin stared for a moment, then eyed the finely crafted, heavy crossbow leaning against his leather backpack. "That bow? Why?"

"My lady states that it could be used in a better capacity with our army for what we may be facing," the elf revealed. "She would reveal no more to me."

"So, you're an alchemist?"

"Yes," he agreed dryly as his eyes studied the group around him. "I can create nearly any item that you wish in return for the bow."

"Who is your Lady, if you don't mind me asking?" Lericanin queried.

"She's asked me to keep her identity secret for now."

Lisa watched their resident carpenter and sculpter as his face blankly stared. "This bow, right here?"

No response.

Eventually, Lericanin sat down and motioned for the quiet alchemist to sit with them. "I would like for an item that any one of us could wear that could heal the wearer of life threatening wounds."

"As you wish," the elf drew out two small boxes that Lisa soon realized were for smelting and forming the metal that he began placing coins from a small pouch into. They sat and talked as the elf conferred with Sceva on several issues as his fingers drew out a gold coin, pressed it between forefinger and thumb and produced links which his left hand began sewing together to make a long chain. As the sun fell and their campfire lit the trees, faces and horses around their perimeter, he finished the necklace and placed it within the small pouch that had housed the coins, tied it to his belt and eyed the smelter. He whispered a few words that she caught and poured the molten gold into the form, then set both beside his pack and let cool. Totally amazed, the group sat and watched the master craftsman at work and then turn to them.

"I appreciate the wisdom of my lady who sent me on this mission," he smiled to himself, the first time since he had arrived. "I was a younger when the first Dark Age swept across the world and had hated your kind since for it was your ancestors who began that war. All of our kingdoms appeared as Kevelaer, my home, at one time." His eyes drifted to the fire between them.

"I'm glad that we've been given this opportunity," Sceva began. "I wish only peace to you and your people and I hope there is a day when we can all sit together and celebrate the end of war. I believe the Lady Elminoir will bring that to pass soon. I pray for it."

Averting the religious opportunity for discussion, the elf quickly changed the subject and soon laid down for the night.
Lericanin headed into the dark forest and Lisa followed him to the nearby pond whose soft waves reflected the moonlight as it pierced clouds above. He disrobed and dove into the water as she watched. Scanning with nose and ear around them, they were alone which prompted her to also disrobe and join him. Diving within the dark water, she noted her quickness had eluded her companion who rose and looked to the lonely shore. Rising to the surface, she wiped her long hair back which glistened and shimmered in the dim light from above and reflected off of the water.

"There you are," he said quietly. "I wasn't expecting you to dive in, normally you only swim with the girls."

"It's dark," she shrugged. "You're not as susceptible to my looks now as if it were daylight."

"Lucky for me."

She chuckled, then splashed him which began a fight of soft water bolts. Soon, they relaxed as she again scanned the bank and dark treeline beyond to sense no intruding eyes from camp. "Do you think that you'll ever fall in love again?"

"No. My love is far from here now. In the back of my mind, I always knew that something like that could never work out," he shrugged and she felt his heart's door open a bit, seeping longing and desire with memories of the long afternoon with Nyrellia, so long ago. "I still pray for her safety and at a moment's notice I would ride to her rescue if called. You know that."

"Yes. I just wish that you weren't so alone. It bothers me that you and Alister especially have loves that are out of reach. I only wished that there was something that I could do."

He grinned. "You do enough by being our friend and allowing us the same in return."

She swam up to him and hugged him tightly. Within seconds, she noticed his discomfort and confusion. She backed, "What's wrong?"

"I need to know what you're intending."

Her brow furrowed. "I wished only to comfort you."

With a nod, he backed from her embrace. "I appreciate that but, you're a gorgeous woman and I think this is something that I shouldn't do. Please, don't think that I don't wish your love but, I see you as my sister..."

Her naivity raised many questions. "Okay. Perhaps you've misunderstood my intentions."

"I'm sorry, Lisa. It's just...you're gorgeous, and...I'm a man."

She stared blankly, then understood the surface thoughts that flashed through his mind fairly quickly. "I wish that I could ease your suffering and fill that empty hole in your heart but, I'm not capable."

Large hands rose through the wavey reflective plane at their chest. "You don't have to explain, it's alright. It's just that I have too much respect for you and I love you as a dear friend."

She nodded, then swam back to shore. As he slowly returned, she dressed and quickly hid his clothes and scampered into the forest. From her hide, she watched as he stepped out, looked around for his shirt and pants, then unashamedly walked towards the camp. Bluff called, she ran in front of him and held up her cloak in front of him as Guy stood watch nearby.

"Put something on," she stressed, holding out his clothes with her right hand.

"No, I'm drying, but thanks." He smiled, then eyed Guy who stared. "What's wrong?"

"Nothing, sir."

"Then keep your eyes on the forest. You're not excited by this, are you?"

"No, sir," Guy defended emphatically.

"Good, you were making me nervous."

Lisa held the cloak to him and walked beside him as he strode into camp as the others slept. "Put this on," she stressed quietly, trying not to call any more attention to the scene that she had inadvertently created.

"I'm fine," he nodded, smiling, then sat down as she draped his blanket over his lap.

Lisa shook her head, then walked over to her own bedroll and laid down beside Alandria then closed her eyes as she could feel Lericanin's attention on her as he dressed and also laid down. She had created something between them that she didn't totally understand and couldn't take it back now.

'You touched a small part of his heart, Lisa,' her guide informed mentally. 'You need to be guarded in the future as any emotions or desires that man feels for you is only amplified many times over and could kill him if you're not careful. Even if that's not what you had intended, which I know isn't. It would be the same as if I lay with him.'

'Thank you. I only wished to ease his heart that I know longs for the one whom he can't have right now. Or perhaps ever again.'

'Help keep their minds on the mission at hand and allow them their own outlets for those feelings, in whatever form that may take.'

* * *

The next morning greeted the group as their elven visitor handed Lericanin the necklace whose pendant was a simple gold ring suspended on the nicely crafted chain. He bid a goodbye and strode back to the road where his awaiting great eagle soon flew him home.
As they rode the next day towards Ruse, Lisa glanced over to Lericanin to her left. "I want to apologize for last night."

His blue eyes studied her lovingly. "You have nothing to apologize for. It's alright."

Soon, Sir William's tower rose into view beyond the cluster of five stone buildings and distant chapel beyond the fields nearly ready for reaping. Dismounting, they walked inside as she noticed Lericanin hand his things to Darvin as he searched for a familiar daughter of the farmer who tended to the laundry. After his screaming desires found her, they disappeared for the rest of the day.

Page 71 - Plans in Motion

The heavenly smell of fresh bread and of the basting pig wafted through the busy keep as Lisa watched William finally return from his investigation into the dreams of his potential sister. She noted the serious brown eyes as he stopped near the long table.

"I have to venture to Dobrich in the morning. I've been given some information that I need to follow up on."

"So, we won't unpack," Sceva mentioned and drew a long sip from his tankard.

William smiled, then nodded. "I thought as much."

"We're all in this venture together," Lisa reaffirmed from her seat near the tall, bullet shaped window that allowed waning daylight to stream in, casting dull orange hues on the stone interior that still held the taste of his late wife. Tapestries hung from between arrowslits, shelves and the main door that sported scenes from hunts and quiet moments between lovers alongside a brook. Lisa admired the soft, comfortable home that Aerial had made for them years ago and now had left her spirit within.

* * *

After the long barge ride to the walled city of Dobrich, the group arrived behind the knight of Ruse as William led them to the keep's main gate. Over the tall doors hung a white penant that encircled a blue horse rampant and facing west.

"State your business, sir," the sergeant challenged as he stepped into their path, gauntleted hand raised.

"I've come to see the duke, I'm his son-in-law, Sir William of Ruse," William announced.

Aged light green eyes studied them, then he bowed. "Forgive me, sir but, I'll have to ask you to wait here momentarily." He turned to another, younger soldier. "Inform the chamberlain that Sir William of Ruse is here to see the duke."

Obediently, the guard spun on his heel and ran to the stairwell that led to the main door and then entered. Within moments he returned as they waited. "His lordship will see Sir William."

They rode into the bailey and dismounted as the younger group took the reins of the veterans who then headed inside with their host. Lisa noted the older, well dressed man who approached. His perfumed, well groomed body was covered in red silk and blue velvet and adorned with gold rings and held a long, oaken staff.

"Sir William, so good to see you. The Duke will meet you soon, follow me to the parlor," he motioned to their right and they followed him to the large sitting room where she remained standing with Lericanin and Alister. As William and the chamberlain traded niceties, her green eyes scanned the shelves and noted some of the titles that the duke enjoyed. Books on Kuzomen and Astaran history, several works by noted tacticians and other predecessors of his post all done in finely crafted leather.

"William," an older, modestly dressed man entered from a far door greeted, smiling.

"My lord, so good to see you again," William returned, then introduced the group standing around them.

"Any friends of William's are friends of mine, welcome to Dobrich. Please, be seated." He claimed a nearby chair, cushioned with red seat and arm rests as the group took their seats afterwards.

"I've been investigating some memories of a certain incident that I remembered from my childhood," William began. "I remember my parents arguing and my father saying that he didn't want to hear her name mentioned again. I asked Archer and he stated that I have a sister born to my mother and that he was directed to give her to Bishop Reynald that night. He resides here, does he not?"

The duke hesitated for a moment, then took a long sip from his goblet and set it on the elegantly carved table beside him. "Yes," he nodded. "I had almost forgotten about her. I heard that she escaped the orphanage at ten and no one has been successful at finding her since. My nephew and your mother were in love before she met your father and I was told that she became pregnant by Sir Ellis. He never knew and still doesn't to this day. I had told him that she perished several years ago though."

"He should know that he has a daughter. Where does he live?"

"He, his wife Amelia, and their two sons live in Yambol. They serve the local baron there and have for some years now. He is a good man, brave warrior and has passed those traits on to his sons, as your father did for you."

"Why did they give up my sister," William asked.

"She was born unique, from what I had been told. I never got any details and didn't ask," he rose. "Excuse me for a moment." Everyone stood and watched the duke walk to the main door, open it and Lisa listened to him speak to the guard standing to the right. "Find the bishop and have him come to me immediately."

"Sir," the obedient reply as the soldier sprinted down the long hallway as the duke returned to his seat.

Soon, the door opened to reveal a large man in his mid-sixties. His pudgy hands clasped his thick, black leather belt and adorned with gaudy rings that complimented the thick gold chain that hung from around his neck and to his round belly vainly covered by the maroon clothing, tailored to fit the important cleric who walked to the invisible border that the circle of chairs presented.

"You wished to see me, my lord?"

"Yes, do you remember the young girl born to Sir William Grant of Ruse, the one that you took into your orphanage?"

"So many have been taken into His care, milord. My memory of one certain girl wouldn't be accurate, to be sure. Did she have a name?"

"Caillin Grant," the duke stated as the group all eyed the priest who quickly became uncomfortable as Lisa noted his heartbeat accelerate.

"Ahh, yes. The one marked by the Dark One. She escaped with His help, no doubt and we never found her."

"How was she marked," William asked.

"Her eyes were of orange, as I recall. Representing her true father in the fiery depths, no doubt. We tried many things to purge her from this taint, but nothing succeeded. I only hope that Arhus' grace has released her from a life of sin."

"Orange," Lericanin clarified as Lisa noted a memory piqued.

"Reddish, yes." He confirmed, then moved to the duke's side and whispered into his ear, then turned and left.

Soon, a runner entered, bowed and eyed the duke. "My lord, forgive my intrusion but, Ruse has been attacked by an army of orcs," he stated, out of breath.

Everyone straightened in their seats.

"What," the duke said, then rose from his seat as the others followed suit. "William, you and your friends will be given lodging here in the keep while I discover more information on this treachery. I'll see you for dinner unless we discover more before then."

"Yes, sir."

Lisa watched him leave as they headed back into the hallway where a sergeant waited. "I'm to take you to your quarters," he announced.

"It would've taken him three days to ride here, Ruse could be destroyed by now," Sceva mused as they walked.

"Let's hope not," William added while they followed their guide up a winding stairway to the third floor.

"Everyone was wondering if the Kuzomen Empire would be involved," Alister mentioned. "I guess the wondering is over now."

"The letter you got stated that the attacks have been worldwide," Sceva reminded. "It was only a matter of time, I guess."

"We shouldn't have left," Lericanin sighed as they entered a dorm-like room full of bunkbeds that divided the arrowslits from one another. "Perhaps we could've helped stop the desruction."

"I'll have to find out if they know any details about how big the army was," William leaned on one of the wooden posts at the foot of the nearest bed. "I just hope Charles and Archer were able to get the people to safety in time."

* * *

That night, the group finally lay down for some rest. Invading the western reaches of the kingdom of Ganshoren was thought to be an army in the thousands and they all knew the small fishing and agricultural town of Ruse wouldn't have survived that incursion. Now the only worry was where their next target was.

Page 72 - War

Lisa followed Selyria to the cathedral and could tell that her companion was nervous as she could smell the sweat and hear the accelerated heartbeat.

"Just try and keep your mind on healing the wounded," she said, trying to keep her friend calmer than she was.

Selyria eyed her, not as optimistic as she half-grinned while they passed ranks of militia running to the southern gate, sheaths slapping thighs along with armor that barely fit. They were going to be busy today.
As they turned into the small yard that was divided by flagstone walks, Lisa noted the clerics and their assistants running about with arms full of cloth and bags of herbs collected from the nearby druids and other shops. They walked inside and noticed the sanctuary had already been prepared for the wounded they would be receiving as rows of benches and cots lined the large room while their patron deity looked on from the distant raised dais from the maroon banner that hung on the carved wooden wall.

"You ladies healers or just here to help," an older male voice asked from their left.

"Healers," Selyria stated as they eyed the middle-aged priest. Gleaming in the dim light hung the pendant sporting the dual green trees of Elminoir that nearly covered the yellow sky that completed the circular emblem.

"I'm Artemis, priest of the Lady. Pleased to have more help, I fear we're going to need it," he grinned, then eyed Lisa who hid behind the green scarf and hood. His blue eyes gazed upwards as if waiting for the lightning strike and Lisa looked upwards herself, trying to find out what was so interesting. "Okay," he quietly stated, then moved on.

She eyed Selyria whose heartbeat had not slowed yet. "You okay?"

"I've never been in this sort of situation before and I don't know what to expect." Brown eyes looked to her for some reassurance.

"I haven't either, other than what the group has been through. It won't be nearly as bad since we don't know the one's we'll be treating."

Selyria nodded, then turned back to the organized chaos around them. "I guess."

Soon, Lisa heard the wagons arriving and smelled the blood. Time to go to work, she thought as she rose from the bench that she sat on with her mage companion. As the door opened, men carried their friends inside whose battle scars tesified to the fierce battle that raged not a mile up the quiet street. Crying and wincing in pain, they were arranged to the nearest cots as clerics began chanting and calling on their stored energy to heal the ones they could. As the day wore on, they healed as well as watched young men die lying in pools of blood that stained the church floor. Lisa fought her primal urges as she did what she could for those laying on the beds that their comrades had just vacated in one way or another. As the evening wore on, she finally got the chance to walk outside in the cool, cleaner air and finally be able to fight the urges that plagued her all day.

"Please help me push this away," she said to no one in particular as golden rays colored the top halves of the buildings across the street as the bottoms were darkened in shadow.

'It's an unfortunate part of you,' her invisible friend replied. 'You did well today. I'm proud of you.'

Lisa chuckled. 'I hope it was enough,' she said as tears welled up from her suppressed desire.

'They may have been routed today, but they'll be back. Be ready. You're going to need to help Selyria through this, she's been taking today's spectacle pretty hard.'

'I'll do what I can, bring her out here though, I can't go back in there.'

'I can't do that, she doesn't believe. You know that.'

Lisa turned and sighed loudly. "Alright," she said and quickly walked back into the feast that called to her relentlessly. As she passed acolytes that washed the flagstone, she soon found Selyria who watched helplessly as two men carried another loss away. She touched the mage's arm who flinched and eyed her.

"What?"

"Come on, let's go get some rest," Lisa nearly drug her friend out of the cathedral and fought the urges to go back and lick the floor clean as sweat beaded on her own forehead.

"You can let go, I'm fine," Selyria's shattered look told otherwise as they quickly walked back to the keep's gate whose doors now yawned open.

"Sorry," she loosened her grip and let go as she sighed, pushing out the visions of bathing in the blood that she had seen today.
Through the bailey and up the stairs, they eventually arrived in their room as Selyria walked to the furthest corner and balled up alongside the frame and began to cry. Lisa used the opportunity for a diversion and crouched beside her, then wrapped her arms around her friend as she rested a hooded head on Selyria's shoulder.

Eventually, Gunnar took his wife to bed and Lisa headed to Alandria's and cuddled up beside her student and went to sleep.

Three days later, the horns of battle resounded again from the outer walls as Lisa and Selyria ran to the cathedral while the men of their group manned the walls that they had been preparing with more arrows and other defenses. Lisa stood at the main doors and directed soldiers carrying friends and comrades to the areas organized for the mortally wounded from the minor. She fought the urges easier in the clean air and tried her best to ignore the blood soaked clothing and armor as they passed.
Eventually, the wind carried the smell of burning wood and the screams and shouted orders of the retreating defenders who staged at junctions not far from them. She moved up to the short stone gate and looked south to see the outer buildings burning, black smoke clouded the horizon as their enemy was on the offensive. She ran back into the church and found Selryia.

"We have to go, now," she yanked on the mage.

"What, I can't. He's dying."

"Orcs are within firing distance of this building, let's go. Now."

Other priests heard the report as Lisa dragged her friend out through the front door as the clacking of a rider sprinted to the keep. She ran alongside Selyria to the gate whose doors were now opened as the defenders formed two shieldwalls across the streets that ran east-west along the high walls. As they passed the defenders, they ran into the bailey, then stopped and turned to see Lericanin, Alister and Sceva with the others standing on the gatehouse, looking back down the street to the fighting that was quickly moving their way.

"We need to get the horses to the river," Lisa stated.

"Why?"

"This city is going to fall," Lisa prophesied as she moved to the stables and began gathering their steeds for the flight from Dobrich. Selryia soon joined her as Galena also emerged inside the tense, hay filled building that would be a raging inferno once fired arrows struck. Alister would never forgive her if she didn't get his pets out of harm's way.

"What are you doing," Galena asked as they saddled the first of the mounts.

"We're getting our horses out," Selyria informed. "Start gathering their tack and help us."

"Yes, ma'am."

Lisa soon led them out after freeing all the others from their stalls as well and led the nervous horses towards the northern gate that joined the keep with the secluded neighborhood that the wealthier merchants enjoyed that bordered the river to the other side. As they moved, orc war cries reached the keep's walls and they all knew it was only a matter of time. The trio reached the gate and opened it as guards ran to the west along the parapets to fight off the flanking enemy that wished to contain them inside the protective walls that now seemed like their prison. Pulling on the reins, she moved to the nearest barge and stepped over as three men moved to them.

"What do you think you're doing,' the oldest one asked angrily. "This barge is reserved for the duke and his court."

"We're with his son-in-law, Sir William of Ruse," Selyria informed as she pushed passed him, dragging three more horses behind her. "You can take up those problems with him when he arrives."

"I wasn't told that we'd be taking on anyone's wives or servants."

Lisa guided the steeds towards the front of the barge to make room for the others that followed, then turned to see Selryia and Galena follow up, then approach the barge captain.

"For your information, we're his friends and guests of the duke." Her hand dropped as Lisa moved to her side and she felt the pulse of energy that emanated from the mage's fingertips. "We've been dealing with the death in there while you've been out here fishing and counting the gold that you've extorted from the duke's purse."

"Now wait just a minute," he began then noticed the crackling light that coursed around her hand as he backed away, arms raised in defense. "Hold on there. This was just a simple misunderstanding."

Lisa gently lay her hands on Selyria's shoulders, "You'll have to forgive her, she's been under a lot of stress lately."

The first of the fleeing nobility arrived and ran to the barges lined up along the long dock as their men-at-arms defended the retreat. Soon, Lericanin and their friends arrived behind the duke and several other notable knights. As they loaded up on the flat boat, orcs jumped at them, swords raised. Slashes and shield bashes soon killed the attackers as they then lined up in a shield wall to repel the arrows that sped from the walls now engulfed in dark smoke that rose high into the evening sky.
Soon relaxing, they all sat down as Selryia moved to the rear of the barge with Gunnar as Lisa walked over to Alandria, now sitting up against the small boat house with her longbow across her lap. Lisa sat beside her.

"You're not wounded are you?"

Alandria shook her head as she stared at the far wooden railing as the polemen quickly pushed them away from the burning city. Lisa pulled her younger friend towards her, resting her head on her breast and held her. "I'm just glad that you're still here."

Page 73 - New Orders

After three days on the slowly moving barge, the city of Trun was a welcome sight as the fish that they had been enduring was becoming old. Lisa had disappeared one night during their journey and decided to leave the deer for a nearby pack of wolves as the thought of explaining where the carcase came from would've been uncomfortable. She also noticed that this kill was more enjoyable than the past and she felt like she could have attacked the whole herd if for no other reason than just for the thrill. Her quiet friend kept her in line, thankfully.

They rode to the baron's keep, following the duke and his entourage of nobles and knights along with the bishop who was one of the first aboard the first boat to safety. After the night's dinner, they were joined by the duke who walked up while they sat around a window seat that bordered the large hearth. They rose and he held up his hand.

"It's alright, friends," he smiled. "I never got the chance to thank all of you for your sacrifices in Dobrich. I enjoyed fighting alongside you and I'm glad that all of you made it out alive. There's another request that I may make," he stated as he eyed William.

"You have but to ask," the knight returned.

"I need intelligence from the western part of the duchy, as far as Ruse. I would like you and your friends to gather that for me and send word of those towns between here and there."

"We'll leave in the morning."

He nodded, "I'll see that your horses are taken care of and anything you need before you leave, just let me know."

"Thank you, sir," Lericanin began. "It's been a pleasure serving you and I'm sorry that your city was lost, but I believe that the enemy will be vanquished soon. They'll die and we'll rebuild."

"Hopefully sooner than later, thank you."

* * *

After being ferried across the Drin River, they rode the next two days west and finally reached the quiet town of Popina whose grassy defenses topped with stone wall greeted them as guards opened the doors. Two older men stepped out from the nearby tavern as one of them eyed them.

"What news, friends?"

"Dobrich has fallen, but the duke lives," William informed. "Any problems here?"

"No."

Continuing on, they eventually arrived at the modest church dedicated to Arhus that centered the small marketplace. Dismounting, Lisa stood near the horses as Lericanin walked up to the elder priest while other men gathered nearby, one of them which had to be in his nineties. The group studied the elder soldier who wore a steel breastplate that hung loosely on his smaller frame, spear in hand with a swordbelt that was tightened nearly double around his waist. His serious hazel brown eyes told a different story however as he watched their priest step out through the tall oaken door, faded by weather and age.

"How may we serve you, sir," he greeted, noticing the pendant around the two knights of Arhus standing there.

"Provisions and news, sir," Lericanin stated.

He nodded then turned to a younger priest standing on the stairs behind him. "See to their needs," he turned back. "We've heard about Dobrich and also that the orcs have marched south and found Yambol empty. I was told they burned it anyway, animals. From whence do you come?"

"Trun, we just left the duke who is alive and well. We're on our way to Ruse, I was wondering if you could send a letter to the duke in Trun and let him know about Popina for me."

"Of course."

Lisa watched as the older man stepped up. "You going to face those orc bastards?" his cracking voice asked loudly. "Cowards wouldn't come here, knew we'd destroy them, I guess."

"If we meet any on our way, yes."

He began unstrapping his sword, "Then you promise me that you'll use this sword to kill as many of those animals as you can. My family has wielded this sword in many battles against those Astaran bastards and I don't want it to miss out on this one either," he stated proudly as he handed the sword belt to Lericanin.

"I'd be honored to bathe it in their blood for you, thank you," he stated, trying not to laugh as all but one of the group that the man addressed were from the very western empire that he despised.

After gathering the breads and cheeses that the wives of the town handed them, they rode out through the southern gate and continued on towards Ruse. The following afternoon, they noticed that Sceva, now at their lead, had stopped and Lisa noted the smell of dried blood in the air. She reined in her horse and eyed Lericanin who rode to her left. "Death."

She waited with the younger group as older men rode ahead and dismounted. They quietly investigated the two wagons that stood on the side of the road near five slaughtered horses that littered the hard packed highway. Soon, the bodies of three men and two women were found as Alister discovered the broken body of a dog lying in the grass on the opposite side and near the treeline. Through the carnage, she also could hear the faint heartbeat of someone hiding within the baggage as Alister soon approached cautiously while the others brandished their weapons and eyed the wagon. He climbed up into the crates, boxes and barrels to soon open a large trunk as a young girl launched herself at him, wooden stake sharpened that nearly missed his chest as he dodged. Frantic, she backed, holding the makeshift knife in his direction.
Eventually, he gained her trust and carried the eight year old out passed the death that she soon noticed and started crying as her thin frame went limp in his arms. Lisa dismounted and met him as he approached with her.

"Keep an eye on her for me," Alister stated as he handed the girl over. "I don't want her to see any more of this," he then motioned to the boys, "Grab shovels and come with me."

Lisa comforted the little girl as they dismounted, untied their tools and headed to the bodies that they buried. Sceva eventually approached as she held her temporary daughter.

"I was wondering if we could borrow Alandria for a moment," he asked, strong, aged hand reached for the girl's back and carressed her lovingly.

"Sure. What did this?"

He eyed her for a moment and she saw the surface thoughts of the four bite marks on the victim's necks. She sighed and nodded. "They won't be far from here, older ones wouldn't be this violent, if they're smart that is."

"I've dealt with this before and it may be good for my two newly acquired knights-in-training to learn how to deal with this sort of problem."

"You want me to go along?"

He shook his head, "You take care of Amy here. I'm thinking that she would be safer back in Popina".

"I'll be right back," she stated, concentrated on the outskirts of the town and teleported to a copse of woods that she had noticed. Carrying her limp, tired package, she headed into the town and walked to the church. Two older ladies set their baskets down on a nearby bench and intercepted her.

"What have you there," one asked.

"We found her in the back of a wagon, she's lost her family and I needed to turn her over to the priest, unless you recognize her." They both moved to her right and eyed the girl.

"I'll take her from you, I'd seen she and her family as they passed through here yesterday." She reached for and took Amy into her arms. "We'll get you cleaned up and fed, come on."

Lisa backed as they headed back to their vegetables as the second turned to her, "We'll take care of her, don't worry. Did her brother die also?"

"Brother? All we found were six older people."

"Then he's still out there then, we'll ask the magistrate to look for him."

She nodded, then headed back out from town, then teleported back to the group as they waited for Sceva, Alister, Alandria and Lericanin to return after their hunt, then ride on towards Ruse through the night.

* * *

As they arrived, the estate was in ruins. Homes gutted by fire and the tower whose tall walls were now nearly flattened, lying in a large pile of blackened rubble. They spent the better part of the day digging out survivors who had taken refuge in the dungeon of the keep. They squinted in the afternoon daylight as they emerged. Charles led most out as he approached William and gave him the report.

"I'm sorry my lord, I was only able to save eighteen," the older man stated. His shattered look on his face belayed his true loss of his own wife and many of his children. Asher, the local cleric was also among the lost.

"It's alright, I'm just glad that you saved who you did," William laid a tired, dirty hand on his chamberlain's shoulder, then went back to cleaning up.

As evening neared, Lericanin approached Alister as Lisa stood there with him. "I was thinking of heading into town and getting a firsthand look at what's left."

"Alright, we'll set up camp in the walls of the church. Don't stay gone too long."

"I'll go with you," Lisa volunteered, then moved to get her horse who waited patiently with the others who grazed. Riding with Alister, Darvin and Alandria, they eventually arrived at the quiet walls that also testified to the carnage that awaited them inside. Farms in the outskirts were burned, mills torn down and the gate was destroyed. As they rode through the gutted neighborhoods, an archer from a second story window called out.

"Halt, who goes there."

Lericanin and the others reined in their horses and looked up to him. "We're come from the Grant estate to the north to gain intelligence on survivors for the duke."

"He does live then? Thank the gods for that," the bow lowered as he stepped out into view. "The bishop has the survivors in the church," he motioned towards the marketplace and the hill where the baron's keep once stood. Riding on, they arrived at the doorway and noticed the crowd within as several armed men stood watch on the perimeter. As they walked into the darkened interior, a familiar male voice called out.

"By the gods, I didn't think to see you here," Duncan called out as he stood.

"Duncan," Lericanin greeted. "Good to see you again," his eyes scanned the surrounding families and tending priests. "Where's Mardra?"

"She's out gathering herbs and such from the city, she should be back soon." He nodded to Lisa and the others as he walked up, flamberge on his back gleaming in the waning light that cast long, misty, golden columns to the floor. "Where are the others?"

"At Sir William's estate, they're cleaning up and building shelters for the survivors as we speak."

Tanned brow furrowed, "We went out there two days ago, there was no one around".

"They had been buried in the dungeon of the keep," Lericanin informed. "We just dug them out shortly before arriving here."

He shook his head and sighed, "I wish I had thought to look there. We could've gotten them out. All we saw were the dead and buried them as we had time".

As they talked, Lisa noted the female moon mage enter the church and walk up to the group to stand at her younger husband's side. "Well, look who came to pay us a visit."

"Mardra, good to see you again. I didn't expect to see either of you here."

"We live in the small community northeast of here," she motioned with her head as a younger priest approached and she handed him two large, leather pouches, then turned back to them. "I've grown up in this area, as a matter of fact. We moved here permanently several years ago and built a home that we'll have to repair now."

"Along with everyone else," the larger fighter added.

She nodded, "Where's William?"

"He's at his estate helping the survivors."

Lisa smelled the approaching knight and his horse as he arrived at the front doorway. "Actually, he's here." They turned to see William and Guy enter the church and approach.

"Hello there," Mardra greeted, violet eyes gleaming.

Surprised, William lit up, "Well, strangers turn up in the oddest places, don't they".

"Actually," Lericanin began. "I don't think she's a stranger."

Page 74 - Parting

William stood there, dumbfounded as Lericanin and Lisa eyed him. "How long did you know?"

Lericanin smiled, then glanced to Mardra who also grinned. "Not long before you arrived, actually. I had my suspicions but, I didn't actually think about it until the bishop of Dobrich mentioned the eyes."

William turned to his half sister, perpetual smile on his tanned face. "I can't believe this. That whole time on the boat, was that by happenstance or by design?"

"We've been following you for some time after you returned from the Macau lands. I'm sorry about Aerial by the way, she was a beautiful woman."

He nodded as his eyes sank.

"Perhaps we can talk, we're staying in the first floor of the Green Lantern up the street. There's plenty of room for everyone, bring them in the morning and they can stay until you get their homes rebuilt. It's safer in the town anyway."

William nodded, "I'll bring them in the morning". He turned to the quartet that he had been traveling with for almost two years. "I think I'm going to stay here and help rebuild. It's my duty as a knight of Ruse and there's only one other alive that I know of," he motioned to the recovering noble on a distant bed.

"I can understand that," Lericanin agreed. "I'm sure we'll catch up with you some other time. We'll stay tonight and head out in the morning, I want to get back to Carbost myself and I know Alister has been worried about his family."

"Give them my best."

After a night's rest in the tent and magically created shelter that Alister had summoned, they escorted the remaining residents of the estate to the town. As they bid their goodbyes, the group headed northwest again on their way home. Lisa only hoped that William's fight was over and they could now get to becoming a family with Mardra, his sister that he knew as Caillin and her husband. He wasn't alone any longer and she was glad for him.

After a ten days on the familiar highway, the group set up camp for the night. Lisa sat on the ground and stretched her legs as she leaned forward, then heard the horses whinny apprehensively. She looked up and suddenly felt the ground beneath them tremble violently. Everyone froze in place as their steeds bucked and tried to free themselves from the tether. Soon, it stopped and she stood to hear someone sprinting towards the encampment. Green eyes turned to see Kevin race to his horse and grab a length of rope.

"Justyn fell into a deep pit," he announced, then ran back the way he had come as the others grabbed more rope and followed. Soon, they arrived at the largest, black hole that she had ever seen as she stepped up to the edge and peered down into the abyss.

"If he's in there, he's in danger," she stated. Concentrating, she mophed into a bat and flew down into the darkness that her senses reached out for the distant, high walls that seemed to drop even farther than she realized as another quake dropped more ground towards her. Dipping her wings, she sped towards Justyn's limp body which lay at an awkward angle. Speeding downward as the thick rock and dirt plummeted towards them, she grabbed him and they both went into mist form as the thundering crash echoed throughout the chamber and finally settled. They re-emerged in natural form as she immediately began healing him enough to keep him from leaving them forever only to notice that another familiar form lay not a few feet from her whose heartbeat slowly faded. After she returned Justyn, she raced to the second and noticed Alister's crushed body lay there. Fighting emotion, she began pouring her energies into healing him also.

Soon, she relaxed and knelt between them as her head cleared from the drain and looked up to see Lericanin descending the long rope towards her. He didn't have enough to make it.

'Hold on,' she thought to him, then teleported to Sceva who stood near the even wider edge and grabbed the rope in his hand. "Thanks," she said, then re-emerged before Lericanin, tied the second length to the bottom of the first and he then continued his descent.

"Are they alright," he asked as she crouched nearby and eyed her recovering patients.

"Yes. It was close though."

"Tie him to my back and I'll take him back up," Lericanin directed as he knelt down and lifted the small boy over his shoulders, holding his arms. Lisa tied a shorter length around their waists and then watched as Lericanin climbed back up the long rope to the top whose opening from here looked so much smaller than when she saw it firsthand not a moment ago. Turning, she noticed the scent of decayed death within the dank, musty air that hung within the immense cavern. They weren't alone.

Soon, Alister woke up and sat up to stare into the eyes of Sceva as Lisa watched the re-energized, magical torch slowly move away as Lericanin investigated further into the darkness.

"How you feeling," Sceva asked as Alister looked up to the jagged hole of light.

"Fine, I think. How in the world did I survive that fall?"

Lisa grinned to herself. "Lericanin is going to leave us here if we don't hurry up."

Joined by Selyria and Gunnar, they followed through the large, naturally made cavern until it finally narrowed and descended even more. Dark grey walls gave way to tall towers of stacked skulls that reached beyond their light and covered the floor.

"Someone's been busy," Lericanin mentioned dryly.

"And for quite a while," Sceva added. "With the fight that we saw above, it wouldn't surprise me that His front door is beyond sight. This scene certainly befits his tastes."

"He better hope that I don't find his front door," Lericanin stated. "I'd take pleasure in repainting his walls for him."

"You wouldn't be able to tell the difference," Lisa informed from memories of past dreams and visits that the Dark One had used to capture her and tried to get her to stay with him.

They quietly continued on as the tunnel soon narrowed and they were suddenly attacked by eight skeletal warriors. Spears stabbed as the group quickly destroyed them after Alister took another wound to the side. Lisa and Selyria quickly helped them all from minor wounds as she approached the farmer from Carbost.

"You know, this is starting to become a habit with you," she studied the cut as her hands glowed blue and sealed it.

"Not intentionally, trust me."

"I'm beginning to wonder."

Back on their feet, they moved on until finding the walls disappeared right and left into the darkness. Lericanin quieted his mind as Alister and Lisa listened to the silent surroundings.

"Right," Alister mentioned as he pointed at the same time that Lisa felt the faint aura of powerful magic being summoned in the distance.
After a few long moments, they soon arrived at another tunnel whose entrance was a bit wider than the previous. The bordering walls emerged from the right and left to create an avenue that led them to a long shieldwall of skeletal warriors who stood quietly and eyed them from blackened sockets. Lisa felt and could smell another beyond them that they were apparently intended on protecting.

"There's a human beyond who's using magic of some type. I think he's trying to escape, we have to hurry if you want to stop him."

Lericanin drew back and threw his hammer at one of the soldiers whose left arm shattered and fell to the ground while Selyria concentrated. As his hammer returned to its owner, a shower of fire dropped from the ceiling and consumed many of the central group, some dropping in smouldering heaps while a few resisted and stood their ground. Lisa felt the human disappear and the line of undead knights dropped into piles of bone and rusted armor.

"He's gone," she announced.

They approached and noticed the thickly piled array of large, cream colored pieces that littered the floor all around and apparently throughout the large chamber.

"What in the world is this," Gunnar asked as he tentatively stepped onto one of the thick, platter sized shards.

"No telling," Lericanin said as they walked out across the field of broken, jagged flooring. They moved across it to finally find the opposite wall and a large, spring-fed pool whose bottom was also beyond sight. He turned to her, "Where did he escape from?"

Lisa pointed across the chamber to the far wall and they headed that way to find a shallow alcove where the ambient power used permeated the surrounding wall in the shape of a door. "He could be on the other side of the world by now."

After exiting the chamber, they continued on and soon found a clump of stone buildings that stood quietly along the low, rocky hill and eventually led them to a tower at the back side of the small town. The first three floors greeted them with shattered furniture and torn tapestries that something had used as a mat for their bed which Lisa couldn't determine the scent's origin.
The final floor revealed the home of the one who probably had escaped them as one of the doors revealed a lab complete with shelves full of powders, liquids and empty bottles on the right and left divided by a long, wooden table that she could smell the fluids of bodies who had lain there under the eyes of the resident necromancer.

They rounded the railing and approached the second door which was locked. Selyria concentrated as she eyed the barrier. "Magically locked. Allow me to try something." They watched as she disappeared and then suddenly heard the crackling boom within as the frame of the door glowed brightly and waned. Lisa could feel their friends heartbeat stop for a moment, then restart as she picked herself up off the floor within and turned to unlock the door, then open it.

"That hurt," the now smouldering hair and clothing permeated the air around the mage as she stepped back to allow them entry.

Lisa stepped up as the others scanned the room for anything helpful. "You alright?"

Selryia smiled, "Yes. I'll be fine once the ringing stops".

Lisa patted her shoulders and hair gently, creating unique eddies in the rising smoke as she giggled.

"Thanks."

"Don't mention it," shaking her head as Lisa laughed.

"Found something," Alister announced as he walked back around the foot of the poster bed with a thin book in his hands. "I can't read the language though," he stated as they circled around him and gazed at the unique script. Lisa approached and spun the book in his hands and began to read:

To Ostasz,
Our Master is growing impatient, your project needs to be delivered immediately as the call to arms has gone out to the four corners. With all the gold that I've paid you, things should've been completed this past summer, need I remind you that your promise obligates you to our cause? I have others who can complete this task if your incompetence doesn't allow you to overcome a few setbacks. You have one more week till completion or I'm coming there personally and relieving you. He doesn't tolerate failure and neither do I.
In His Service.
Llandielo

Lericanin's hackles rose at the sound of the last name. "That bastard."

"Something we need to know?" Sceva asked.

"Llandielo is the one who commissioned the orcs at Chevington and his name has come up before," he mentioned as Lisa continued on through the other letters that all spoke of the same elusive project.

"None of these tell exactly what our friend was working on," she revealed, then looked up to him.

"Give me the book, we'll take it with us and give it to the church, maybe they can make something of it." He said as she handed him the book. "Burn this place," he instructed as she headed to Selyria's side and finally noticed the tapestry on the wall over the large cabinet that Alister had found ten swords, shields and suits of chainmail hidden within. It's left half was in reds and showed demons charging innocent people on the right who cowered near their homes.
As they headed back down the stairs and out into the cave enclosed town, the tower's windows belched flame that soon engulfed the whole structure.

Soon, they climbed back up to Craban and the younger group who all stood anxiously as they emerged.

"What did you find down there?" the half-elf mage asked as they walked back to the camp.

"Undead soldiers and a small town. Nothing that will be missed," Lericanin informed as he dropped his shield onto the ground and sat down to eat with the others.

Page 75 - Homeward Bound

After leaving the seaside town of Portsmouth, the group continued their trek towards the Astaran border that still seemed so far away. Lisa smiled as she figured the horses could probably take them there out of memory while they slept in the saddle. As they made camp for the night, she sat against the piled saddle and backpack as Lericanin and Alister began making dinner that she and Alandria delivered earlier.

"You should've bought more of those peppers in the market," Lericanin told Gunnar who finalized the perimeter's setup.

"He didn't have the right kind, I asked."

Lericanin shook his head. "You don't have to eat it, that's fine. More for us."

Sighing heavily, Gunnar raised his hands in the air. "You always blow things out of proportion. I didn't say I didn't like it, I love your cooking, it's just there are only so many ways to make deer, boar and rabbit and I think you've covered them all more times than I care to remember."

"You're more than welcome to join me," Lisa said, eyeing the knight of Kalmar. "Eating things naturally is more healthy for you."

"I'll pass, thanks anyway."

They chuckled as he walked towards the far side where Justyn and Kevin dug their hide near a large oak.

As the night wore on, Lisa finally got to sleep, drifting into a welcome slumber that was soon interrupted by the familiar heavy, putrid air and those glowing eyes that glared from the red misty cloud that hung around them.

"Hello, darling. I've missed you."

"The feeling hasn't been mutual, you can leave now." She felt her anger well inside like never before as he neared, fingers carressing her skin.

"Time will come when you'll be begging me for my attention. After I kill your friends and destroy their homes and become the Lord of this world, you'll be begging me on your knees for clemency. You should've taken my offer when you had the chance, now I'm going to make you wish you had died in that ruin at Laksay. I'll laugh as your world is destroyed around you, watching those you love suffer. Little Les, Alister's family, your grandparents, Duke William and his wives...although, I may take your mother as my own slave. Lericanin is going to die slowly also, along with his bastard children that he's left all over the kingdom as well as Nyrellia. And you can only blame yourself for denying me. Had you accepted my offer, this wouldn't have to happen. I would've spared them and they could've served you in our palace."

"Get away from me!!" she screamed as the visions of death and the dying around her consumed her senses and emotions. Turning, she sprinted from him as his cackling laugh echoed in her mind and chased her through the world around her bathed in blood and sulphurous smoke that rose from ruined homes and slaughtered livestock.

Suddenly, a burst of light slammed into her mind and consumed her vision and she fell to the ground.

* * *

Quiet daylight pierced the darkness as she felt someone reach for her and grabbed his arm.

"Lisa, it's me," she soon recognized Lericanin's voice and relaxed as the world around her seemed vague and in slow motion as she looked up to him. Even her movements were sluggish as she raised the scarf over her face and sat up to see Alister approach. His steps seemed as if in some surrealistic dream that she couldn't wake from and she felt like she was swimming in the air around her. Waves swept her to the right and hands soon grabbed her around the waist and kept her from sinking.

"Are you okay," he asked, his words elongated and frustrating to discern.

"Sure," she noticed her sight narrow and soon close as her body fell limp.

* * *

Waking, she felt energized and yet drained at the same time as she sat up to see the Lericanin in the dim light of the small campfire sitting nearby, spinning his hammer in his hands, then turn to eye her.

"You okay," he asked concernedly.

"Fine," she nodded. "Where are we?"

"Another days ride from the last camp. You scared us pretty bad," he stated in hushed tones while the others slept nearby.

"Why, what happened? I didn't hurt anyone did I?"

"No. But, I was rather hoping that you could tell me what happened."

She straightened and sifted through her memories, soon finding the unwanted visit as her blood chilled. "I only remember bits and pieces really."

He nodded. "Alright."

* * *

Two weeks beyond, Sceva stopped ahead on the road and they followed suit as Gunnar rode back to them alongside Lericanin. "You've got to see this to believe it."

They charged their horses ahead as the rest waited for some direction on the quiet road as the weather was finally beginning to cool in the latter months of autumn. Lisa sighed as she noticed that no sound of birdsong or even that of squirrel or any other animal was present. Suddenly, the burst of powerful energy pulsed from the distant right and emanated outward to wash passed them and continue on. Someone very powerful was nearby and extremely busy. Lericanin motioned for them to follow and she spurred her mount to join them and then notice the ranks of undead soldiers facing west, their rusted and dirty shields sported the ancient symbol of the Kuzomen Empire. Amazed, they rode through the dividing point between two large units that faced two more beyond them and whose numbers were hidden by the trees that bordered the road.

"We have to get word to the border immediately," Gunnar stated as they finally moved beyond the quietly assembled army waiting for the horn's call to march. Lisa looked back as Lericanin bowed his head and prayed, then within moments spurred his own horse on to run from the scene that could engulf them in a hopeless battle any moment.

Another seventeen days of hard riding finally reached the gates of Eaglesham, now prepared for war as men on the parapets strolled fully armed and kept an eye on the eastern fields.

"Tend to the horses, we'll get some rooms," Lericanin handed off his reins to Darvin and walked inside the tavern busy with the rumors of combat from the southern borders. Lisa followed him and noted that most of the news came from the nearby city of Polgar and told of a bitter struggle there.

"How can I help you," the innkeeper asked as he leaned over the wooden counter.

"Eight rooms for the night, if possible."

"Sure. Two silver."

After paying and gaining the keys, they situated their gear and gathered in the main dining area for dinner.

"It's my intention to press for Carbost as fast as we can," Lericanin stated as they ate. "I want to make sure that Alister's family is safe as well as the baroness."

Everyone nodded in agreement and got a bath, then relaxed as they prepared for a good night's sleep that was desperately needed after the long journey here. Lisa lay beside Alandria and hoped that her charge would live a long and happy life along with the other younger troops that Gunnar had been drilling for the past six or seven months. She hoped that she had passed on enough to keep her alive and help her survive the coming years. Time would tell.

The next morning, they rode out through the western gate and soon noticed Sceva motion for them to move to the side of the road as Lisa soon heard the thunder of hooves coming their way. Within moments, the dark forms rose from the dusty road to reveal black surcoats sporting the gold shield and symbol of Arhus displayed proudly on the breasts of the paladins and templar of the Order of the Golden Sceptre riding to face the undead army that was surely on their way. Polite nods from the knights on heavy warhorses garnered their respect as the long column passed and soon disappeared to the east, allowing the group to continue.

After crossing the kingdom of Davos, they finally reached the fortress that guarded the eastern side of the stone bridge that crossed the Dovey River. Knights from the Order of the Grey Eagle stationed here were all making preparations of their own as the group dismounted and watered and fed their horses. Lisa noted the older knight who moved to Lericanin, Sceva and Gunnar.

"Where to, travelers?"

"Carbost," Lericanin informed.

His tanned, creased face drooped. "That town's been razed, friend. If I were you, I'd turn back around and head to the safety of Bakony's walls."

A collective sigh went up as shoulders dropped. "We have friends there. How long ago was the attack?"

"A week ago. Monsters came out of the northern woods and sieged the town for several days, then took it the third night."

"The baroness?"

"Rumor has it that she escaped with her uncle who I was told is the baron of Soderham to the west. I don't know that for sure."

He nodded, "Thank you, sir".

After they rested for a bit, they mounted up and headed to the western gate, despite the warnings. The guards looked to their commander who shrugged and motioned, prompting them to unbar the gate.

"We can't assist you beyond the bridge, friend."

Lericanin grinned. "We'll be fine, thanks again. Arhus be with you."

"And you."

They rode across the stone bridge, Lisa cringed as she crouched over the saddle and kept her eyes on the horses hair that waved in the breeze, hitting her in the face as she hoped the opposite bank would come soon. As it did, the nauseated feeling waned and she straightened again as they soon passed the side pathway that had overgrown with years of neglect and led to Laksay.

Within two days, they arrived in Borge' whose gates opened by armed guards standing to either side. "How is the road," one of them asked.

"Quiet," Alister informed, apprehension in his voice as the thought of what he might find had haunted him since the news of his hometown's demise. Within the packed streets of the small outpost, the group found very little space for themselves as they approached the stables and dismounted. Lisa followed Alister into the main keep turned inn and scanned the crowd for familiar faces. Lericanin noticed someone and moved to them and Lisa recognized the ranger who had ridden with Galerik.

"Arlen," he called, patting the scout on the shoulder and smiled.

"Well, how are you," the veteran asked as his three friends eyed the younger trio.

"Tired and eager for some good news."

Arlen smiled and motioned to the bench beside him. "Tired, you can solve here. Good news may be a bit more elusive, I'm afraid."

"We also ran across a large undead army on the eastern border that may be attacking as we speak unless the paladins and templar that we passed a day out of Eaglesham took care of that already."

"Yours has been a long road, friend," another older, armored and well traveled man stated from across the table.

"You have no idea."

Lisa and Alister continued on with their search until she found her grandparents sitting together with many other refugees.

Elizabeth rose and wrapped her tightly. "Ahh, I had hoped and prayed that you would return to us soon."

Lisa hugged her grandmother tightly. "It's good to see you also. Are you alright?" she backed as her grandfather rose and hugged her also.

"We're fine. Nothing that Yaeby won't see us through."

"Where are your friends," Kavayen asked, arms still around her shoulders.

"Around, I'll introduce you to them as soon as they settle down." She eyed him directly as he smiled.

"I look forward to it. You know, we were just talking about you this morning."

"He is the father of good fortune, should've thought about it long ago, you would've been home sooner," Elizabeth's blue eyes rolled.

"I don't know how long we'll be staying but, I definitely have a lot of catching up to do while we're here."

Page 76 - Ruins

Lisa rose from her grandfather's side who hadn't let go of her since they met and she didn't complain in the least. "Come with me, Alister's family is staying in a house behind the inn here. I want you to meet them finally."

"Alright," Elizabeth stood as Kavayen pushed himself from the table and followed them through the crowd to the front door and out into the quieter streets lit by lanterns that hung suspended from either side of the main door to the old keep. She led them to the right and between the neighboring house that closely hugged the large, square building to finally see the front porch of another modest home where she noticed Alister, his dad and uncle sitting with Lericanin and Darvin.

"There she is," Markus stood and hugged Lisa and then backed.

"Mister Stormfrost, these are my grandparents, Kavayen and Elizabeth."

"Pleasure," her grandfather shook the veteran's hand. "We've been hearing a lot about you."

"Likewise," Markus said, smiling as he accepted the hug from her grandmother. "We were about to adopt Lisa also if no one else claimed her, along with all these other misfits," he grinned as he glanced to Lericanin who just smiled back as he stood.

Lisa backed as she drew Lericanin into the circle. "This is Lericanin, Alister, Darvin and Alister's uncle, Jarvis."

They greeted all in turn as Lericanin smiled. "It's an honor to finally meet you both. Lisa talks very highly of you."

Elizabeth smiled, "I know, we've been a bad influence on our granddaughter within the short time that we've gotten to know her".

They all chuckled. "If anyone's been a bad influence, it's these two," Markus motioned to Lericanin and his own son as Darian emerged from the front door and smiled as their eyes met. He made his way around the group to stand beside her.

"This is Alister's younger brother, Darian."

"Honor, madam. Sir," he shook their hands, then backed.

"We were just talking about heading east to Bakony if you want to join us in the morning," Markus invited.

"Actually, that may not be a bad idea," Kavayen agreed. "This place is becoming too crowded anyway."

Lisa stood and listened to the two families bond and get to know one another and she smiled at the opportunity to witness their group grow much larger. As the night wore on, she joined her grandparents to their sleeping area carved out on the floor of the large great hall. They made her a place beside them and she lay there enjoying their company and knowing that they were alright. Elizabeth's hand rose to her scarf in the dim light that emanated from the large, central hearth still burning from the evening's festivities that the resident dwarves never let die.

"Why do you cover yourself," she asked as Kavayen's head rose and settled on his wife's shoulder.

"I've been...changed from what I was originally and I've found that my appearance can affect people. Some in negative ways."

Her brow furrowed, "It can't be that bad," she whispered as their neighbors slept. "Show me."

Lisa hesitated for a moment, knowing that her grandfather was in the most danger. "I'm not sure this is a good idea."

"Kailee, we're your grandparents. You have no secrets from us, it's okay."

"Actually, there's a lot about me that you don't know and that I would rather you not."

"We already know about your other side," her grandfather reminded. "We still love you. Nothing can change that. You've been blessed by the gods, not only with your talents, but also the friends that you travel with. If knights of Arhus and Elminoir have accepted you, how can anyone else deny?"

She sighed, then pulled back the hood to reveal the fiery red hair and noticed her grandmother's eyes light up as her hand gently sifted through it. "This is beautiful. You definitely didn't get this from my side of the family. It's almost like looking at a flowing fire."

Lisa then moved to the scarf and slowly pulled it below her chin to reveal the nearly angelic face and noted their eyes collectively widen. Quickly, she pulled it back over her nose and relaxed as she could hear their heartbeats accelerate. "See what I mean."

Kavayen's eyes began to glisten which melted her heart as she could almost hear his thoughts and love for her grow in leaps and bounds. "We should've never let you go," he began to cry which prompted Elizabeth to roll over and hold him.

Lisa moved over and held them both until they all fell asleep.

* * *

As the cooks prepared for another day, Lisa awoke to the sound of someone entering the great hall as morning light spilled into the crowded room, waking some from snoring and other natural functions that all echoed within the high ceiling and oaken beams overhead.
Soon, they packed and ate breakfast as she escorted them out into the morning fog that hung low within the street now awakened to another day of survival. Rounding back to the home of the neighborly hunters that Markus had befriended, they met the group also readying for their departure.

Kavayen stopped with her short of the porch. "I knew, even in the early days since you were born that the gods had a plan beyond what my heart told me. I've prayed that you wouldn't grow up in an orphanage never knowing who you were or where you came from and Yaeby heard us. He's blessed you with a beauty that my Bianka had and even more." He smiled and held her for some time, then kissed her on the forehead. "Whatever that future is, embrace it. I know you'll make us proud."

Lisa stood there dumbfounded for a moment as they smiled and joined the Stormfrost family and soon rode off towards the eastern gate. Alandria approached with their horses and stood patiently with Lisa as they watched the caravan leave.

"You coming with us," Alister's voice broke her concentration, prompting her to look up at him.

"Sure, yeah." Turning, she mounted up and rode with the rest on to the outskirts of Carbost.

Now in quiet ruins, the stone walls, burned and pitted from siege weaponry and breached by tall towers standing against it's side, the city within was also gutted and full of the refuse of battle and the remains of those who didn't escape. Lisa followed Lericanin through to the marketplace and beyond as they searched out the surrounding fields and burned out farms to eventually notice the long, wide path carved from the forest on the northern side. Following it, they eventually noticed the two, tree-like columns that bordered the gate that was nearly forty yards wide. Lisa noted the scents of trolls, orcs and goblins as well as some other familiar scents from beasts within the Shadow Range. The very same army that destroyed Warwick had finally reached beyond the Black Mountains and entered the world of men.

After Lericanin sent his message via his spiritual guide, he looked back towards the distant walls of Carbost.

"I hope Thurgen and his family are alright," Lisa mentioned.

"Me too. Although, his clan has the backing of the Black Anvil and Stormfist clans behind them. I think they'll be alright." He spurred his horse and she followed to join back up with Alister, Gunnar and Selyria. "All I know is, this Llandielo is beginning to irritate me."

"He's just a pawn in this game."

"But a touchable one. We just need to find where he sleeps and end this. Without pawns, Sater has no army."

Page 77 - Durkheim

Grotesque greyish armor clung to his body and was now part of the Lord of Durkheim, a training ground for the elite in the service of those dedicated to the one known as Sater. He had given them all the riches and women that they could want while they prepared for this very day. Nearby towns had also become the unawesoming homes to their spies that kept them apprised of the movements of their primary enemy. Once in a while, they were also able to strike at one or two.

"My lord, it's completed," the gravely voice stated from his right. Kneeling, bare chested in front of the fuming pit that graced the center of their temple, Magarius, the High Priest of Sater raised his hands as he faced the rising red misty cloud that thickened and Kathaka could feel the power rising from it, then saw the pair of glowing eyes that emerged. Quickly kneeling, he bowed his head.

"My lord," he greeted respectfully as his armor leapt in excitement.

"Your time has come to prove your dedication to our cause and the men that you've assembled for this day. I want you to make them suffer for the oppression that they've inflicted on my children for too long. Do this, and I will reward you beyond imagination. Do it not, and you will feel my wrath forever."

"It will be done as you desire, Great Father. To that I vow."

As the energy dissipated from the sunken room, Kathaka rose and noticed the cloud sink back into the stone well. Spinning on his heel excitedly, he ascended the stone steps and headed quickly out through the main sanctuary, its floor covered in multicolored pillows and had become the scene of many lavish parties and celebration for festivals over the years. Heavy footfalls echoed underneath the large, round window that centered the high wall, filled with a black border that surrounded a flaminig eye. After pushing the large doors away from him, he stepped out onto the patio that overlooked the compound of Durkheim as the central square was now full of mounted knights in dark grey armor. Black shields newly painted with the flaming eye was also on the barding to their horses.

"Knights of the Black Sun, hear me! To this night were you born of the fires of our Father, to be chosen to take the world back from those who have chased our ancestors into the distant forests from their homes. Beaten and whipped in their dungeons and burned publicly for their beliefs, those spirits guide you tonight as we begin our campaign against a world who has been taught to hate you. I say that after this demonstration of strength, they will begin to fear and respect you. To glory!"

A resounding roar went up that echoed between the buildings as horses reared in anticipation while mothers in the breeding house also cheered from the windows.

Kathaka quickly moved to and mounted his large warhorse, then spurred it around the large temple and towards the western gate. As they passed the trolls standing by, they turned northward and soon approached two, tall pillars at the edge of the treeline. Glowing, the whole unit of anti-paladins thundered through and disappeared until the long stream finally was consumed by the darkness and the tall, glowing columns faded.

Entering the distant forest, Kathaka motioned for his men to fan out into a long line, five men deep. He then mentally gave the order and they charged the quiet, unsuspecting target whose main, central building stood quietly, centered in a large meadow. Rumbling, the horses charged between the two story, squared building and stables that fronted it. As a small group approached the long, squat stablehouse, they dismounted and charged in, catching the hands and master smith unawares as they ran down the stairs.

Kathaka turned to the left and noticed a forming line of templar and paladins and he charged, lance extended that caught the first victim in the chest, sending him backwards into the two behind. As his knights followed suit, a bloody, vicious battle ensued that finally reached the doorway that he charged his horse into and entered the large great hall to see the object of his wrath.

"Know that no matter the outcome here, you will die and be added to the other doormats that your master has used to achieve his selfish goals," the elder Knight Commander stated, his gleaming armor and shield at the ready as he fired a blast into Kathaka's shield.

"Spare me your vain appeals for mercy, old man," Kathaka charged across the flagstone and lowered his lance. As he neared, the paladin sidestepped and thrust with his battlehammer, unhorsing the Chaos Lord. Kathaka rolled and leapt to his feet, then charged, screaming his battlecry as two more black knights entered the room. Feints and clashes of steel echoed within the immense room as men died outside in the courtyard. Dodging, the paladin slammed Kathaka with his shield, knocking him aside as the other two charged him.

"No! He's mine!," Kathaka screamed as the first caught the hammer's blunt end in the helmet, crushing it with a sickening blast that sent blood spraying outward and dropped him. Kathaka charged, using the white haired proprietor of Exmoor's shield to cover his movement. He struck downward, catching the older knight in the back, knocking him forward into the blade of the second knight. Kathaka planted for a second strike and caught the shield again in the chest. With the white flash that emanated from the shield, his armor screamed in pain and began wrenching itself from his bones, ripping itself away and tearing his flesh.

"This isn't over," Kathaka spat from bloodshot, grey eyes as he began to laugh. Suddenly, the chaos lord's body exploded and disintegrated everything and everyone within the room, sending ash and burned wood outward and showering the floor as his men outside claimed their first victory.

"Burn everything," Magarius ordered as his men claimed small trophies from the fallen. They then gathered torches and set all three buildings ablaze which lit the night sky as they rode off to their next target.