The book of Lericanin. Primary author: Lericanin.
Selyria watched intently as Lericanin carefully sifted a variety of herbs into the pot. The aroma wafted lightly to her nose causing her to inhale deeply. Almost immediately her mouth began to water in anticipation. She was always amazed at how a person of his stature could be so able to manipulate things on such a fine scale. He always seemed so focused and ready to wreak havoc, yet there was another side to him only a few have been able to open. She stared intently while pondering this series of thoughts quickly realizing he was staring back at her.
“Something on your mind?” He returned his attention to the stew.
“Well…to be honest I was wondering about you. We’ve been traveling for several months now and I know so little about you. I know you follow Ahrus, enjoy the company of women, can carve wood like any master carpenter I have seen, and your pretty handy in a fight.” She smiled with the last statement hoping her jest hadn’t gone too far. He could be touchy about such things and she still felt like a newcomer to the group. “How did you get started down this path?”
“This is the bard in you coming out eh?” He half smiled while glancing at her sideways over the pot.
“I suppose…” She admitted, “but we do travel and fight together so I thought it might be a good idea to get to know one another.”
“More stories for those songs you sing. Write them about Alaster, my work is for Ahrus and my hammer will sing his praises.” He watched her as he spoke to gauge her reaction but it was obvious she wasn’t about to quit that easily.
“The songs are important. You give people hope.” Lericanin grunted with disapproval at her statement interrupting her briefly. “It’s true. Through all that goes on in their lives they know there are those that will rise above the darkness and protect them. You are one of those people Lericanin. Your story is a good one to tell and since I have seen with my own eyes the things you have achieved, what better person to get the story straight?” She returned his stare raising her eyebrows to emphasize her question.
“Who better indeed? How does he put up with you?” His smile revealed the true nature of the question as he considered her argument.
“It’s all about the magic…he doesn’t know any better.” They shared a light laugh before she continued. “So what do you say, will you tell me?”
He knelt over the pot stirring methodically while considering her request. He had heard a few of the ballads written about the group from various bards who played at a few of the inns they found during their travels. All of the tales were completely blown out of proportion and depicted the group poorly, at least in his opinion. There was never any mention of their faith or their failures. Their successes were far and above what had really happened and not everyone was mentioned which was probably the worst part of the whole thing. Everyone participated so why shouldn’t they be mentioned? “Fine, after dinner we will sit and I will tell you what you want to know.”
Selyria smiled. She was surprised he had agreed so quickly. “I look forward to it.”
“Well that makes one of us.” His smile revealed otherwise as she rose to go clean up and gather her journals. Lericanin watched her walk away as Lisa slipped up behind him, “She means well and won’t reveal anything harmful.”
Lericanin turned his attention back to the pot. “I trust her. It’s myself I am worried about. How was the hunt?”
“It went well. Alaster is cleaning the animal as we speak now quit changing the subject.” She sat down on a log next to him as he stirred the stew.
“It’s never been that easy for me, you of all people should know that.” He sat back on the log leaving the cooking alone for now. “It’s not my way.”
“So don’t tell her anything, tell her you have changed your mind.”
“I told her I would talk to her so I will. We’ll see how it goes.”
“I’m going to wash up while you guys eat, see you in a little while.” Lisa rose and turned to walk to the river nearby. She hesitated a second, turned back to face him as he looked up at her. He watched as she knelt towards him and placed a gentle kiss upon the top of his head cradling it gently between her hands. It was a new experience for the both of them as she walked away quickly leaving him to sit upon the log almost in a state of disbelief.
Gunnar approached the fire after tending to his horse. He was rubbing his leg where the animal had kicked him during the process. Luckily the injury wasn’t severe and the veteran warrior was used to the treatment. “ Damn animal. One of these days I’m going to…” He watched Lericanin staring off into the woods towards the river. Knowing the younger fighter the way he did he knew he must be alerted to something approaching the camp. Gunnar placed his hand on his sword as he stepped around the fire towards the river. “You see something?”
“Huh?” Lericanin snapped back to the here and now. “No, nothing. I was just thinking. Let everyone know dinner is ready.” Lericanin stood while Gunnar switched from watching the woods to his traveling companion then back again. Lericanin clapped the elder on the shoulder. “Really its nothing.”
Everyone enjoyed the meal which seemed to taste better than the last. They were a lucky band to have someone who could actually cook along. It made the miles seem a little shorter somehow though nothing beat a meal by Mrs. Stormfrost. Lericanin could come close sometimes.
Selyria approached Lericanin as he knelt near the waters edge cleaning out his special pot. “You cook and you clean? What would your enemies think?”
Lericanin eyed her obviously not amused by her jest “It keeps me humble. I am no better than any other man. He helps me keep things in perspective.”
“My apologies. I meant no disrespect.” She sat down on a nearby rock watching him as he meticulously rinsed and re-checked the pot. When all seemed in order he set it on the ground and began on his own mess kit with the same determination. It was a quiet several minutes before he finished and replaced everything in his pack making sure the equipment was placed in its proper place before closing the flap and tying it shut. Once that was done he removed a finely crafted drinking horn and carefully removed the top offering the horn to her first. The wine was bitter with a hint of various fruits which tantalized the palate, very fine indeed.
As she handed the horn back to him he took a seat across from her on another nearby rock looking out across the water. “So you want my story eh?” He glanced sideways at her as he spoke and watched as she nodded. “I don’t think there is much to tell but here it goes. I was born in the small town of Anderslough in the duchy of Kecel. It’s quite lovely in the springtime. The trees glow a brilliant green with fresh leaves. The flowers blown across all the meadows as far as the eye can see. Hawks soar high above for what seems like days in a clear blue sky. Rolling hills and hidden ponds are tiny sanctuaries away from the noise of more civilized places. It looks like it had been touched by Elminoir herself, graced by her presence personally.”
“Anyway, my parents manage an orchard…
* * *
The priest raised the child above his head as though it were an offering. Blood and mucous form its very recent birth still coated the child as it squirmed and began wailing in the priest’s hands. With the prayer finished Father Perkayin gently wrapped the newborn in a fresh blanket and walked to the edge of the bed lowering the child to his mother. Immediately a hand shot up holding the priests arm away from her and shook her head. Her breathing was slowly returning to normal as she forced out the word “No.”
Confused, Father Perkayin looked to the father for an answer. He stood motionless, staring at the child while trying to comfort his wife. When he didn’t move an older woman in the room stepped forward, gently taking the child from the priest. “Thank you father, I think we can manage from here.” Her smile reassured him as he nodded and cleaned his hands on a towel.
The priest’s path was blocked briefly by two children who had taken up positions in the hall trying to catch a glimpse of what was going on in the room. “Petronin, Elmin downstairs…now. Sorry about that, you know how children can be.” The elder led him down the stairs to the front door while still cradling the now quiet child. “Yaeby be with you father.”
“And you as well Mrs. Averitt.” Father Perkayin mounted his horse, still confused about what had happened only a few moments ago.
Bryana Averitt took a moment to study the bundle she cradled gently in her arms. She carefully brushed the soft black curls of hair on his head while studying the shape of his face and nose. His size alone told her he was definitely a member of this family as he easily outweighed any of the other new children she had seen in the village recently. Her voice was quiet and motherly. “It will be fine child, they will love you in time. You have so much to see and do.” A presence behind her caught her attention. “The child will need feeding soon.”
“She won’t have him.” Lericanis Averitt stood at the foot of the stairs watching his mother cradle the child. His emotions were mixed as he tried not to look at the baby.
“He is her child!” Bryana’s voice was incredulous as she held the baby in front of her son. “Look at him.”
“Look at him!” she demanded.
Lericanis looked up into the child’s face. The nose, the hair, even the shape of the face all fit but he could make himself accept the baby. She stepped closer holding the child out in front of her forcing him to take a step back. “Don’t you do this! Don’t you forsake this gift. He is your child and I will not have you acting otherwise. Is that understood?” She waited for a response.
“Do you hear me?” her anger was beginning to show as her face began to turn red and her nostrils flared. Lericanis began looking for a place to flee.
He stood helpless barely able to mutter a “yes” as a wealth of emotion overcame him. In an instant Lericanis stood upright and wiped away tears with the back of his hand. “I will not have that…that thing in my house!”
Bryana began backing away as anger flashed in the young man’s eyes and he began stepping forward with a menacing look. Fear began to fill the woman’s mind as she watched him approach and then suddenly cower again as the front door was flung open. The shadow cast into the room was long and wide as a lone figure filled the doorway. Becan Averitt glanced to his wife and the bundle she protected then to his son who was frozen at the foot of the stairs tears streaming down his face. “You listen to me boy. You will raise the child because he is one of us. I don’t care how he came to be but you can clearly look upon him and see this family in him. Do I have to knock some sense into you for you to see that? Do I?”
Lericanis fell backwards upon the stairs as his father loomed over him. Suddenly the realization of what was happening sunk in and he began to sob. The events of the past several months began to overwhelm him as he curled up on the floor and continued crying. “I couldn’t protect her…she was screaming for me and I couldn’t protect her.”
Bryana handed the child to her husband and knelt next to her son to comfort him. Becan stared at the child in his arms and felt a warmth that hadn’t consumed him for some time. Gentle hands rearranged the blanket as the child began to calm down since the yelling had stopped. He stared lovingly at the dark hair and pink cheeks and was reminded of the day Lericanis was born. He couldn’t remember a day that had felt better in his life. He had a son, a legacy. It was almost as if his purpose in this world was complete though he knew that wasn’t true at all. He did know that if he did die in the service of the Emperor that his life was complete somehow and for that he was grateful. He thanked Ahrus for that everyday.
* * *
Lericanin stood inside the barn looking around at the mess the horses had made. He was tired of always cleaning up after his brothers. Buckets, brushes, even shovels were strewn about the floor, dropped wherever they were last used. It never seemed to make a difference when he asked them to pick up after themselves, “You can clean it up” was their typical response. Not today he thought. Times were about to change.
Lericanin stood outside of the barn and looked around. The road to town carried its usual traffic of farmer’s wagons and livestock heading to and from the market. Looking the opposite direction revealed empty fields lining the road with his family’s orchard on both sides. No one was around except for him. His mind drifted to the memory of Galaya Meryon, the beautiful daughter of Anderslough’s smith. They had shared a loft the precious day and her scent still lingered in his mind. As appealing as the memory was he knew better than take too many trips to the well so he shrugged it off and decided on something a little more quiet.
Sneaking inside the house was as easy as usual. Slipping into the kitchen, Lericanin managed to scrounge some cheese and bread as well as several slices of ham which remained on the serving tray from breakfast. A quick scan of the pantry resulted in a bottle of wine and some grapes. He wrapped the food in a cloth and tucked inside his shirt and carried the wine. Lericanin took short, careful steps managing to avoid his mother who remained at the front of the house beating a rug with her broom. He knew if she caught him he would be the one receiving the beatings and not the rug which hastened his movements. With a cautious glance back to the front of the house he ever so carefully slid through the back door and stepped outside without a sound. When he turned around to begin his getaway he froze.
Tied to a nearby tree was his father’s horse and with it stood a merchant from town, Mastersmith Meryon. Lericanin looked around but could not find his father and quickly realized if his father emerged from the barn he would be discovered, as he was completely in the open with a bottle of wine no less. Deciding quickly that discretion was the better option, Lericanin moved quietly but quickly to the edge of the house and crouched behind some shrubs, while keeping a watchful eye on the smith. A voice filled his mind reminding him not to stare directly at his quarry as people had a sixth sense about such things so he used his peripheral vision and began to move along the shrubs while mentally thanking his grandfather for his training.
Several long minutes had passed before he had managed to clear the house and slip into the orchard. The blossoms on the apple trees signaled a good year was coming to the farm for which he thanked The Lady. He may not enjoy the life of being a farmer but disrespecting the one who brings the bounty was unacceptable in his grandfather’s eyes. Lericanin had found that out the hard way as a tingle passed over his rump to remind him of his punishment that day. He was a large boy, no, man, he declared in his mind, but his grandfather was bigger still and knew how to gain respect from a child. He was almost of age so that would stop soon and besides he had enjoyed the company of not one but several of the girls in town so that sealed his manhood right there. Satisfied with his argument, Lericanin pulled the cloth from his shirt and removed a piece of ham. He ate as he walked while enjoying the sounds of nature all around him.
The day couldn’t have been more perfect for a getaway anyway. Clear blue skies with a light breeze blowing from the west caused his long black hair to flail wildly in his face before he tied it back in a ponytail. The smell of the blossoms clung to the air and filed his nostrils with the smells of spring. He brushed his hands off before raising and arm and caressing several leaves in the trees as he crossed the threshold from the grove to the forest nearby. The sounds changed as leaves crunched underfoot with every step. The musty smell of decaying plant matter mixed with the heavy smell of pollen as the myriad of flora filled the air with the hope of a continued existence. In the darker areas shaded by the massive oaks and hickory he could spot ponds of dew resting upon the bright green leaves of the ferns. There was a sudden flash of movement as a small rabbit shot out from under a shrub and took refuge down a hole under another nearby. Lericanin watched but decided to leave it alone. He marked the location for future hunts but decided that today was the animal’s lucky day. The Lady shines upon you my friend, he thought as he continued deeper into the forest.
Several hours passed before Lericanin arrived at his favorite destination. A clear spring formed a small pond near a formation of flat moss-covered stones. The water was perfectly clear and was incredibly sweet to drink. Creatures from all over the forest gathered here to drink and refresh themselves throughout the day. He had gotten to the point with some that they would ignore is presence as they lapped at the cool water. Even while thinking it a small pack of wolves walked into view led by a large, mostly white male. The animals took note of the human as they crept ever closer to the crystal blue water and slowly bowed their heads to drink. The alpha maintained eye contact with the young man, its emerald green eyes fixed on him as if reading him somehow.
Their gaze remained locked for several minutes before the leader broke it to move to the waters edge and drink. The remaining animals took up watching as their leader drank. When he finished he cast a quick look towards Lericanin and then led his pack back into the dense forest without a sound. The young man watched the animals disappear before removing the cloth from his shirt and laying it gently on a nearby rock revealing the contents. It didn’t take long to finish off the bread and cheese while taking sips of wine in between bites. After savoring the last bite and licking his fingers clean, Lericanin leaned back against one of the larger rocks and began watching the birds flutter from tree to tree. His stomach was full and the wine began taking affect as he rested completely satiated. It wasn’t long before he drifted off to sleep with dreams of glorious battles and the calls of maidens seeking to congratulate their hero as he returned from a far off land with riches beyond imagination.
Ahrus had other plans…
Lericanin awoke to a presence. His face was touched by something wet and as he opened his eyes he was staring up at the damp snout of a horse that had come to investigate him. A quick glance allowed him to take note of a fine saddle and reins though he didn’t recognize the work. It wasn’t his specialty anyway. A splash in the pond turned his attention as he gently pushed the animal away from him. Another glance skyward told him it was about midday or just past. He had been asleep for a little while. The bottle of wine had fallen off the rock and came to rest next to him. Removing the cork he took another big swig and then watched the water for the source of the splash. He could barely make out light ripples across the crystal water but could not find the cause. Suddenly there was a rush of water as a head broke the surface only a few feet from where he sat. Lericanin froze when he saw her.
He had heard more than one tale of about wood nymphs from his grandfather. He knew about tricks the liked playing on the unsuspecting traveler or how they would lure men away to bewitched places so they could play with them at their leisure. He had been told that most of those taken had never returned and those that had had gone mad with desire for those who took advantage of them with their magics. All of those thoughts raced through his mind as he stared into the emerald eyes of the most beautiful woman he had ever seen.
Sunlight danced unnaturally upon her auburn hair highlighting what looked like golden strands of fine silk. The light played upon her eyes as well causing them to sparkle and shimmer like highly polished gems. Her skin was smooth, like fine porcelain, without a single blemish. Droplets of water cascaded slowly down her cheeks coming to rest at the corner of a small mouth, her lips were the color of ripening raspberries which he longed to taste. Her nose was small, like a bud of a rose just before blooming. He watched as she swept a strand of hair from her face with a delicate hand. Her fingers were long and narrow without a single indication of blemish or callous. Upon her wrist was a tightly wound gold chain that shimmered in the sunlight. He noticed a charm hanging from it but did not recognize what it resembled. His attention returned to her face as she locked eyes once again with him. The spell had been broken though.
“My apologies.” His voice wavered. He had never been nervous around a girl before.
“None required.” Her voice was soft, almost angelic. She continued watching him, unsure of the feelings that were stirring inside of her. She was enjoying the way he was looking at her which was different that the other young men she had met. It was as if he didn’t know or didn’t care who she was.
Lericanin looked around nervously then began to rise. “I…I should go. I’m sure you want to be alone.”
She smiled while continuing to watch him, even her teeth are perfect he thought. “You were here before me. I am the one who should leave.” She waited while gauging his reaction, “I would like it if you stayed however.”
Lericanin stood motionless listening to her speak. It was as if he was in another realm altogether. He began thinking of those who were lost at the hands of the fairy folk and imagined himself under their spell. If this is how it happens then it isn’t bad so far. Her voice brought him back. “Will you stay?”
“If that is what you wish then I will remain. I did not want to offend you.”
“There is no offense. I saw you sleeping there when I discovered this place. I have never seen water so clear and inviting and couldn’t resist. I made sure you were really sleeping and then got into the water. It has been fun watching you sleep.” She reached up and pulled her hair back as she spoke allowing her bare shoulders to rise above the water. The swell of her breasts was evident as she leaned back to allow the water to drain from her hair. Lericanin could resist looking her over again as she did so. His desire was becoming more evident and uncomfortable.
“Are you from around here?”
Her question brought him back to the pond. “My family works the grove to the north of here.”
“It’s beautiful. This area is amazing. There certainly isn’t anything like it back home.”
He watched her look around enjoying her movements. She was very graceful, her every move was fluid and with purpose. It was then he realized she was alone. “You came out here alone?”
She returned her attention back to him as he watched her posture change ever so slightly. “Yes. My father is conducting business nearby. I haven’t been allowed to travel on my own so I decided to take some time for myself. He will be too busy to notice I’m gone anyway.”
“Sounds familiar. I have little desire to tend to the trees or work the farm. I know I should be helping my family but my heart tells me otherwise. Its like I don’t belong there.” He was amazed to finally meet someone who understood how he felt. A sense of relief washed over him as he watched her nod her head. Finally someone like me.
“I understand completely. I have the same feeling all the time. There is some other purpose for you outside of the life you know but you can’t see or feel it yet. Its almost like your…”
“Trapped.”
They looked at each other as he finished her sentence. A strange recognition had struck both of them. For several minutes they remained motionless just staring at one another. Neither one of them wanted to break the silence.
Nothing about the silence felt awkward. The two of them remained transfixed on one another examining every visible inch of the other. A smile spread across Nyrellia’s face as she watched his eyes caress her bare skin. It was with some regret when she spoke, “I like the way you look at me.”
Her voice brought him back causing him to look away for a second as a wave of embarrassment washed over him. “You think I jest?” she inquired.
When he looked back at her she her voice was low, almost a whisper. “My father has been looking to marry me off for some time now. Every man I have met has looked upon me as his prize. But the way you’re looking at me right now, your eyes are so bright… I see something different in them. Something I have never seen before.”
She watched his face as the color returned. His eyes met hers again as he turned to look at her. Slowly she slid her hand across the flat stone and laced her fingers into his. His skin tingled uncontrollably when she touched him sending goose bumps up his arm. He watched as she rested her chin upon her other hand and floated lazily in the water staring up at him. They remained this way for several minutes, once again returning to their silence.
In a single swift swing of his legs Lericanin switched positions to lay upon the rock she rested her head upon. Their faces were mere inches from one another, eyes still locked. Both could feel the breathing from the other as the hairs on their arms danced beneath them. Nyrellia’s movements were sudden and quite intentional as she reached up and grabbed his shirt by the shoulders and pulled herself close to him. Her lips were incredibly soft and he swore he tasted berries upon them as she kissed him deeply. He felt himself being slowly pulled towards the water and knew this was the end and didn’t care a bit.
Lericanin slid completely into the warm water without breaking the kiss. He held onto the rock with one hand to stabilize himself while holding her bare back with the other. Nyrellia continued her kiss as she found the ties to his shirt and loosened them. With a gentle tug upwards it slipped off of his wet skin and over his head. She leaned back long enough for it to rise over his head and then tossed it into the grass nearby. As his mouth was revealed hers was upon it again this time her passion began to grow as their lips met once again. Lericanin had never known a feeling like the one he was feeling now. His entire body seemed like it was on fire, the warm tingling sensation causing his senses to come close to overload.
The water rippled around their naked flesh as they continued their passionate embrace. The world around them seemed to melt away as their hands explored the unfamiliar territory of each other’s bodies. As the afternoon wore into evening they shared the last of the food and wine in between long sessions of a very real and primal passion. Neither of them wanted it to end even as day turned to night and they lay naked beneath a full moon talking in hushed whispers while toying with each other’s hair. It was late into the night when Nyrellia drifted off to sleep nestled peacefully in Lericanin’s arms, warm, safe, and for once, not alone. She rested her head upon his chest which rose and fell in rhythm as he slept in a deep sleep, content with his surroundings and the feel of her body against his.
It was to become a feeling he would never know again.
* * *
“Unhand her!” The command awoke Lericanin immediately as he rose with a start. His eyes swept over his surroundings as he picked out several armored figures silhouetted in the pale light of dawn.
“I said unhand her.” The soldier glowered at Lericanin as he sat up. Nyrellia began to stir next him as he gently lowered her arm from around his waist. Things didn’t look good as he assessed the situation around him. In front was an average sized individual wearing chain mail and helm while wielding a long spear. To his right was a slightly taller individual appointed very much the same flanked by the one giving the orders who wore chain also but stood with his hands on his hips, his sword still sheathed. All of them watched him as he rose and stole glances at Nyrellia as she stirred. This didn’t sit well with Lericanin and he didn’t appreciate the rude awakening while on his family’s property. He noticed a movement from the corner of his eye as he slipped his shirt over Nyrellia’s naked back.
The soldier’s movements were clumsy as he stepped forward with the spear held at the ready. Lericanin eyed him warily without moving. He continued watching as the soldier stepped forward and thrust the spear towards his chest. In an instant Lericanin trapped the weapon in his armpit and rolled to his left drawing the soldier to the ground on his stomach. While the soldier was attempting to regain his footing Lericanin continued his roll and snapped to his feet swinging the spear and striking the soldier across the back. The haft struck its target with a loud thud and a loud gasp escaped the soldier as he began sucking in air trying to catch his breath.
Immediately the other troops moved forward and then suddenly stopped as the sergeant raised his hand. His eyes narrowed as he assessed the young man standing before him, spear at the ready. “A scrapper, eh? Well let’s see how good you think you really are. Jeroan.”
The stocky soldier in front stepped forward holding his spear at the ready. Nyrellia turned to see the two square off, readying themselves for combat. “Sergeant! Stop this at once!”
“My apologies milady but my orders come from your father.” Sergeant Kreyas remained focused on the fight as several of the soldiers began making wagers behind him. In a flash Jeroan stepped forward, thrusting with his spear while Nyrellia looked on in a panic. Lericanin felt his heart pounding as he danced sideways avoiding the point of his opponent while using his own weapon to block several attacks. As Jeroan lunged forward again he attempted to sink his spear into his opponent, Lericanin knocked the spear away while using the haft of his own to sweep the legs out from under his shorter foe. Continuing with his sweep, he managed to bring the weapon up and strike the first soldier across the back as he tried to rise again and then, with another swift strike, managed to catch Jeroan across the knee forcing him to drop his spear and grab his injured limb, howling in pain. Lericanin silenced him with a quick strike to the temple using the butt of the spear haft.
Sergeant Kreyas watched as both of the men slumped to the ground unmoving. Lericanin stood before him, his breathing heavy from the fighting; sweat beading on his body, yet remaining defiant with the spear at the ready. The sergeant stepped forward while drawing his sword. “Not bad. Not bad at all. Now lets see how you do against a real fighter, Scrapper.”
Nyrellia watched in horror as the sergeant closed ranks and faced Lericanin. Anger welled up inside the young man as he watched the seasoned warrior step closer. He tried a series of jabs with the spear which Kreyas easily batted away. A feint to the left followed by a jab to the right failed miserably as well. The sergeant lunged forward forcing Lericanin to roll to his left. Using this movement, Lericanin brought the spear up and attempted to strike with the haft when suddenly the weapon was stuck. The sergeant had mimicked the young mans trap and held the weapon firmly in his left armpit while striking with an upstroke with his sword breaking the spear haft. In a flash the veteran snapped the broken spear shaft across Lericanin’s right arm and then across his temple.
Lericanin knelt on the ground, the surprise clearly evident in his eyes as he watched the splinters shower the area. The sergeant lashed out so fast that the young man never had time to register his pain as the world exploded into a ball of shining light followed by sudden darkness.
There was pain. A dull throb was the first sign to Lericanin that he was still alive. Wherever he was the smell was horrendous, worse than the stables at home. His fingers clawed the area around his body and found only stone and straw. Something danced across his arm causing him to recoil and hesitate as his ears tried to recognize what had touched him. Nothing moved or made a sound.
Slowly, Lericanin reached up and felt the wound on his head. There was an ache and the dull throb which became more pronounced when he moved. The darkness was overwhelming as he tried to sit up. It was at this point that he realized his left eye was swollen shut and the right was coated with congealed blood keeping it closed. He managed to come to a sitting position and began gingerly wiping the dried blood from his face. After several minutes he chanced another try at opening the one good eye and was bombarded with an explosion of light. His head throbbed harder as he squinted into the light and tried to make sense of his surroundings.
The cold stone floor was covered in a light layer of dirty straw. Directly in front of him was a series of iron bars with a single door built into the cage. The roof was made of stone as were the walls and there was no sign of a window anywhere. Turning his head increased the pain and revealed new injuries. Slowly he began moving his head side to side and up and down hoping to work the stiffness from the muscles. Somewhere in the distance he could hear keys jingle and someone speaking in hushed tones. Light poured from a doorway across from where Lericanin sat as a shadow entered the dungeon. He remained on the floor straining with his one good eye to see who the visitor was but the light caused the pain in his head to explode forcing him to look away. The footsteps grew louder and a sweet swell permeated the area, it smelled of lilacs like the ones near the pond.
“Open the door.” Her voice was stern and commanding as well as familiar but different somehow. The guard hesitated remembering the order about no visitors. “Open the door now or your transfer to the frontier will be sooner than you’d like.”
Apparently the threat worked as keys jingled against the metal of the cell followed soon after by the creaking of the hinges. Lericanin tried to look at her once again but the pain in his head refused to wane. He felt as if his own eyes were going to explode. “Leave us…now.”
“My lady…” The guard never finished seeing the look he received as he began to protest. “Yes my lady, as you wish.” The young soldier cast a quick glance of contempt at the prisoner then moved to the door. As his footsteps faded Lericanin felt a rush of air as Nyrellia knelt at his side.
“You shouldn’t be here.” He managed to speak though he thought it sounded like more of a gurgle.
“Nor should you. This is all my fault. I don’t know how to correct it.” She gently caressed his face holding back tears as he winced in pain when she neared his wounds. “I am so sorry.” She whispered then leaned forward to kiss his forehead.
“Just so I know before…well just so I know, who exactly are you?” The light was becoming more manageable now as she gently began cleaning the blood from his good eye allowing him to see her face again.
Nyrellia hesitated focusing on his injuries with a gentle but learned touch. She managed to avoid his gaze as she searched his head for more wounds. When she finally looked into his one good eye she quickly turned away. “My uncle is the Duke Howard of Kecel.”
Lericanin contemplated this newest revelation without any apparent emotion though inside his stomach was turning. Fear began to creep into his mind as visions of the gallows and the noose began to coalesce into a solid image with his head within the loop. “I’m going to hang aren’t I?”
The whisper returned Nyrellia’s attention to him. “I’m not going to let that happen.”
“How can you stop it?” Lericanin buried his head in his hands forgetting the pain while his mind raced. “My fate is sealed.” A sudden thought entered his mind as he looked at her almost smiling. “You really are a wood nymph.”
Nyrellia’s brow wrinkled in puzzlement as she once again began to clean his wounds. She reached into a small purse and removed something small. “Here chew on this.”
He almost laughed as he bit down on the small fruit and chewed very gingerly. The meat of the fruit was extremely sweet and a sudden warmth enveloped his entire body. Concern filled his mind as he felt all of his limbs suddenly begin to tingle and he felt the pain and knots drift away. Even his eye felt better though he still had difficulty opening it. After several seconds had passed he wiggled his fingers and toes and immediately felt as if he had never been injured.
Nyrellia watched his reaction as he chewed. She remembered what Lady Marrisa had taught her about the herb and wanted to make sure he didn’t have a bad reaction. Once she saw the swelling around his eye subside she knew he was going to be ok. “I borrowed it from one of my teachers.”
Her voice snapped him out of his feelings of amazement. He continued to test his limbs, “Borrowed what exactly?”
“The herb. After the fight I knew that they would not send a healer to you so I borrowed it for you.” She took his head in her hands gently and began surveying his wounds. Once satisfied they were all healed she pushed his head back gently so they were face to face. “I’m not going to let you hang. You did nothing wrong Lericanin. I have spoken to my uncle and we have come to an agreement.”
His lips moved as he began to say something only to be silenced by her finger. Her eyes filled with tears as she stared into his. “I have never nor will ever know again what we have shared. It is unfortunate that we live in this world as we do but there are things that cannot be changed. I will never forget you, ever. You have given me something far beyond the physical things we shared, something I will cherish forever. For that one brief moment I knew freedom.”
Lericanin watched a single tear stream down her cheek as she continued holding his face. He took a deep breath through his nose and was overjoyed at being able to drink in her scent over everything else. He marveled at the shimmer in her hair that peeked out beneath her covered head. With a gentle hand he pulled away the hood of her cloak and brushed her hair over her shoulder. His fingers played among the soft strands as he watched her silently. Leaning forward ever so slightly, he lifted her mane of hair and lowered his face to it taking in a deep breath of air. Her scent filled his mind causing a swirl of brief memories to almost overwhelm him. As he remained kneeling next to her she lowered her head to his and placed her face cheek to cheek on his until their lips met. The kiss lingered for several long seconds until she pulled back reluctantly and with one last caress of her hand along his cheek, she rose, turned suddenly and left the dungeon without looking back.
Lericanin sat silently staring off into the night, his mind settling into the memories of his final moments with Nyrellia. All the sounds and activities around him ceased to exist. Selyria remained perched on a rock watching him intently. The story had turned out more interesting than she had expected which made her reluctant to interrupt him. There was definitely more to the warrior then what he allowed everyone to see. She knew he kept a close relationship with Lisa wondering what kinds of intimate thoughts he revealed to her. Her curiosity was getting to her. Her own thoughts were interrupted by a sudden crashing noise in the forest near them. Lericanin’s reaction was almost instantaneous as he stood and faced the direction of the noise. He had gone from being completely wrapped up in his own thoughts to fully alert within seconds. She found this ability almost unnerving.
Selyria began mumbling, preparing to inflict pain upon anyone that decided to attack them while Lericanin focused on the tree line. Initially nothing moved until suddenly Gunnar stepped from within the darkening forest with his horse in tow. His incessant yanking on the reins told them both what was happening. “I said move, now move. I’d like to get some sleep sometime tonight.”
“Problems dear?” Selyria couldn’t hide the touch of sarcasm in her voice as she let the spell fade.
“Oh no, we’re just fine. Remind me though, when we arrive in the next town, to have this thing sold and butchered.” As he finished speaking the horse stretched his neck and attempted to take a bite out of Gunnar’s trousers, missing only by inches. “Nice. Your lucky I need you right now.”
Selyria chuckled while watching the spectacle. “Wish I could help.”
Gunnar continued walking back to the camp mumbling under his breath. Neither of his traveling companions could completely hear him but the words “fireball” and “slow death” were unmistakable.
As her husband disappeared Selyria returned to her rock while Lericanin returned to his spot on the ground. She re-opened her journal and read what she had written so far before returning her gaze to Lericanin. “Mind if we continue?”
“Where were we?” His attempt to delay was futile and he knew it. She had a knack for remembering even the smallest of details. “Never mind…I remember.”
* * *
The creaking of the door woke the prisoner alerting him to the fact someone was coming. Lericanin had no idea how much time had passed since Nyrellia had visited him but he knew it was more than just a few hours. He had tried to occupy himself with other thoughts but the time with her near the pond dominated his memory. His mind began wondering what the noose would feel like and how long it would take him to die when the time came. He had witnessed a few hangings in his short lifetime and they always seemed quiet thought the aftermath was not pleasant. He did not relish the thought of hanging lifeless while relieving himself in front of everyone in his village. He began to force himself to think of other things.
There was a brief pause in the activity then an older, well-dressed male flanked by several soldiers stepped into the dungeon. By the looks of the way he moved he had been here before. The smell had no affect on him and the hay and filth on the floor seemed not to concern him. That made Lericanin nervous. As the group approached the noble made a simple gesture towards the door followed immediately by one of the guards who produced a key and unlocked the door to the cell. The creaking seemed to be a prelude to his sentencing, the cries of his soul begging for mercy. Lericanin stood up facing the man but staring at a spot on the far wall. There were six pock marks there he thought. Created at random it appeared, but all of them were about the same size. He refused to show fear if at all possible.
“Do you know who I am?” The voice was commanding, echoing menacingly throughout the chamber.
Lericanin remained standing looking beyond the man. In his peripheral vision he sized him up noting his height and overall physique. The noble was shorter and less stout but obviously could fight as evidenced by several scars along the backs of his hands. His eyes were a dark brown and his graying black hair was cut close in a military fashion. This made Lericanin even more nervous. His hesitation to answer the question did not go unnoticed.
“I asked you a question whelp.” The anger in the man’s voice was growing more obvious.
“My apologies my lord, you are the Duke of Kecel, Duke Howard. I meant no offense.”
“Offense!” The incredulous roar made even the guards jump as it echoed throughout the dank chamber. “This is not a mere offense boy! You have soiled a family of noble birth! You…a commoner…filth, and one of my subjects no less!” Spittle landed on Lericanin’s cheek and he made no attempt to remove it. He remained frozen in place as the duke seethed before him.
“Do you know what I should do to you? Have you any idea of the trouble you have landed yourself in?” Lericanin was about to answer but stopped when he saw one of the guards shake his head while staring at him. “I should have you drawn and quartered, hung at the very least.”
The duke began pacing as he spoke casting an occasional contemptuous glance at the prisoner. He suddenly stopped which brought Lericanin’s eyes to him. “I realized something though. While you are a commoner it isn’t entirely your fault. I failed to keep her properly tempered. If the bitch had learned from day one to keep her legs closed this would never have happened.”
The tide shifted as the duke continued speaking. Lericanin’s anger began to boil to the surface with every word out of the duke’s mouth. He began calculating his odds while sizing up the guards in the chamber. His attention returned to the duke immediately when he realized the noble had stepped up to face Lericanin nearly touching him while locking eyes. “I should have you gutted like a dear but instead I find that I owe you for what you have done. In one fell swoop you have rid me of that troublesome girl and gained the family more powerful allies as well as land. So you see boy, lucky for you this will work out.”
Lericanin continued staring into the duke’s eyes, his anger still growing and about to boil over. “You want to kill me don’t you?”
Lericanin hesitated as he contemplated his answer then refused to speak. The two remained face to face for several more seconds before the duke leaned a little closer and whispered, “Bright boy.” As he stepped back several paces he began again in a louder, more commanding voice. “This matter will not be spoken of again, ever. I will not have this family’s honor tarnished by one such as yourself. It is my understanding that you have some fight in you boy, Sergeant Kreyas has told me as much and I can see it in your eyes. So, instead of wasting a length of good rope, I am sentencing you to a term of service in the armies of Kecel to be terminated upon either your death or until it is decreed that your service is no longer needed at which time you are free to go. Your alternative to military service is to hang today. If I find out you have spoken about this to anyone outside of this room then you will hang from the nearest tree. Do you understand?”
“Yes my lord.” Lericanin could barely speak. Anger turned to fear which left him with a massive lump in his throat. He was trying not to let it show but as the duke pressed on it became more difficult.
“Your answer then boy?”
“The military my lord.”
“Fine. Your service begins today…and I won’t forget my promise, ever.” With the final reminder Duke Howard spun on his heel and left the chamber. Lericanin remained motionless as the last guard waited for the duke to clear the room before motioning for Lericanin to step out and head up the stairs. At least he was still alive…for now.
The trip from Kecel had taken a week which had passed without event. Lericanin was one of six new recruits to the army though he was the only one who had been sent by the duke himself. Out of the six he was also the youngest and so he was given all of the tasks worthy of the of lowest rank. On the last day of the trip Lericanin watched the wooden walls grow larger as the small band rode closer to his new home. Sentries on the walls called down for the gates to be opened allowing the group to see inside.
The compound was larger than expected with well manicured fields surrounded by painted rocks which marked dirt pathways that led to several smaller buildings inside. The wooden palisade on the south side of the fort began to slowly give way to stone as men worked to construct a more permanent structure. Lericanin took in everything he saw without comment watching several groups of young men and boys practice with various types of weapons including the sword and the bow. 'This won’t be too bad' he thought although a bit too soon.
“Glad you could make it Scrapper.”
Lericanin closed his eyes not believing what was happening. Sergeant Kreyas stepped to the front of the group as another, larger armored individual walked up to confront the group. “What’s going on here? Who gave you permission to enter my garrison?” The mans bellow caught the six new recruits off guard as all of them looked to their escorts for answers. “Someone answer me now!”
No answer was forthcoming forcing the sergeant to order the group to dismount and line up in front of him. As the recruits did so he continued yelling at them sending them scurrying around one another some of them colliding with each other and nearly knocking one another down. Finally the six of them managed something close to a line and waited for the next verbal assault. They stood silent as the sergeant watched and scrutinized their every move. The silence seemed to last forever before the veteran began walking down the line inspecting the young men before him. As he walked he stopped in front of each of the recruits and stared down at them with contempt until he approached the last in line. Lericanin froze as the sergeant stepped nose to nose with him fixing his gaze with his own. “You’re a big one.”
Lericanin said nothing figuring silence was the best policy. “What’s your name boy?”
“Lericanin Averitt sir.” Something made his voice sound funny but he tried his best to speak normally.
“You ever been in combat boy?” The question caught Lericanin off guard. Before he answered he glanced towards Sergeant Kreyas who was watching the inspection with a slight grin on his face. “He’s not going to answer for you! Now, have you ever been in combat?”
Spittle ran down Lericanin’s face as he waited for the sergeant to finish. “Yes sir.” He began to grow angry as he realized that this wasn’t at all what he expected. He knew his grandfather had served in the army of the empire but he never told stories about things like this. It was always about fighting and seeing strange places not getting yelled at and almost wetting your pants. Somehow he managed not to flinch a second time as the sergeant leaned forward to lock gazes again.
Several seconds passed before the veteran began to whisper “I know why you’re here boy and I don’t like it. Watch your step or life around here will be real painful.” The sergeant fixed his eyes on Lericanin’s while shouting to the rest of the recruits, “the rest of you gather your gear and follow Tolliver to the bunkhouse." While still watching Lericanin he said, "You’re his problem now.” The sergeant jerked a thumb to Sergeant Kreyas, spun to his right, and walked away.
Lericanin remained frozen in place attempting to catch his breath without letting on. He failed miserably and Kreyas seemed to enjoy watching the young man collect himself. It wasn’t so much what the man had said but more of how he said it that scared him. Kreyas’ voice snapped him back to reality.
“I said move!”
For the next year Lericanin never came near a weapon while drudging miserably with every menial task that could be laid upon him. Mucking stalls, scrubbing cookpots, latrine duty, anything Sergeant Kreyas demanded of him he did and none of it was ever done right. It had gotten to the point that the work became Lericanin’s escape. He was never allowed to visit the nearby village of Amston, which was only a mile from the garrison. Everyone else came and went almost at will but he was forced to stay in the compound and complete his duties without question. His days had become routine, rising before dawn, he set out Sergeant Kreyas’ armor and boots then proceeded to the kitchens for the sergeant’s breakfast. After breakfast he headed to the task for the day which usually kept him out of Kreyas’ sight for a while. His only real break came on Sundays when it was time for temple. That had become the time where he could have some real time for himself and rest. Initially he had been so tired during the sermons he nearly fell asleep but as time wore on he grew to appreciate what was being said and not just spending the time daydreaming of the outside world. It also gave him time to sit and talk to Father Galayis who had taken Lericanin under his wing during the young mans first weeks at the garrison. The priest of Ahrus had become a guiding force in Lericanin’s life, helping him to find some good in what was becoming a wasted life. His counsel was becoming more and more valuable everyday
Then one day someone new arrived at the fort. Lericanin watched from his pile of cook pots as a mounted individual rode into the garrison with a retinue of six armored men. He wore a polished breastplate covered with the heraldry of Kecel. His helmet was off revealing strong features and short dark hair. Something about him made everyone stop what they were doing and watch him as he surveyed his surroundings. Even the workers, now working on the northeastern tower, stopped what they were doing and stared. It wasn’t long before Captain Patrell came running across the parade ground and stopped at the front of the new arrivals mount. The greetings were brief and unheard as Lericanin struggled to listen to what the two were talking about. Suddenly the mounted knight motioned with his arm and one of his men rode forward and handed a scroll to the captain.
Captain Patrell read quickly, turned to his lieutenant and spoke. Moments later it seemed everyone was shouting as everyone in the compound was ordered to muster on the parade grounds. Lericanin watched as everyone scrambled to their places with their respective units and the civilians all stood in the doorways of the few shops and the kitchen watching, wondering what was going on. When the activity had settled down Captain Patrell and his lieutenants stood at the front of the formation facing each sergeant of the various squads present including the newest recruits from across the duchy. The officer, who remained mounted, scrutinized each person at the front of every unit. Lericanin watched as his gaze swept over the entire formation and suddenly stopped while looking in his direction.
Alarms began signaling in Lericanin’s head before he realized what was happening. He watched as the officer rode his general direction but didn’t think much of it until he heard the stomping of hooves while he leaned over to grab another filthy pot. It was at that point that he realized his brain had been trying to warn him of impending trouble. “You there. Why haven’t you heeded the call to muster?”
Lericanin stood up straight, dropped the pot he had grabbed and fixed his eyes on a pennant flapping gently in the breeze. “Sir, I have been deemed unworthy of the kingdoms service.”
The officer looked him up and down. The labors of the past year had forged a solid physique on a young frame that was larger than any man in the compound including the one who now stood before him. Lericanin continued watching the pennant as it relaxed slightly with a dying wind and suddenly stirred again scaring a few birds that had perched upon he stone wall nearby. After several seconds of scrutiny the knight finally spoke. “One of your size should not be wasted doing women’s work. Who is your sergeant?”
“Kreyas sir.” A spark of hope began to grow.
“What is your name?”
“Lericanin Averitt sir.”
“Averitt you say, from Anderslough?”
In his surprise Lericanin forgot protocol and made eye contact. Deep lines around the eyes and the dark graying hair were evidence of a seasoned warrior who had the look that several of the other veterans in the garrison had as well. As the officers eyes narrowed Lericanin remembered himself and returned his gaze to the pennant now flapping wildly in the wind as a short gust blew over the compound. “Yes sir, from Anderslough.”
“I see it now, the family resemblance. I had the honor of serving with your grandfather Becan Averitt. How is he?”
Surprised, Lericanin could barely get the words out as he watched Captain Patrell approach with Sergeant Kreyas not far behind. “He is well sir.”
“Is there a problem my lord?” Captain Patrell shot a contemptuous glance towards Lericanin as he spoke.
“Yes there is but no need to concern yourself captain.” The knight turned his attention back to Lericanin, “Get yourself cleaned up and report to me when you’ve done so.” Lericanin hesitated while glancing towards the captain and Sergeant Kreyas while calculating the consequences for doing something outside of his normal tasks.
“Lericanin…” after getting the young man’s full attention the officer continued, “that was an order and I expect my orders to be followed. Captain Patrell has been reassigned so he is no longer your commander. Now move soldier!”
Lericanin jumped at the last command and began running to his corner above the tack room in the loft of the stables. As he ran he could hear voices growing louder and he thought about chancing a glance behind him but thought better of it as he saw Father Galayis smile at him and hold up his medallion from the church just high enough for Lericanin to get the message. I guess he does deliver…
Lericanin scrambled to get a fresh tabard on though this one was almost as dirty but the grime wasn’t new. Once he was satisfied with what he had on he clamored down the ladder and ran towards the keep to the captains quarters. The troops were still in formation on the parade ground without their officers. No one was talking and Lericanin could see a lot of looking around going on as well as some nervousness among the troops. Once he made it through the door to the keep he immediately turned left and was knocked backwards as if he had run directly into a wall.
Bells subsided slowly as Lericanin looked up and recognized one of the entourage who escorted the new commander to the garrison. The young man jumped to his feet as if a bee had stung him. “My apologies sir, I should have been more careful."
The veteran warrior cast his eyes over Lericanin showing no signs of having even felt the impact. “Yes you should. No harm done though. Now move along, you don’t want to keep the knight-captain waiting.”
Nodding to his elder, Lericanin mounted the stairs two at a time then turned right at the landing. The floor was littered with various pieces of clothing as well as several small pieces of furniture and fragments of the washbasin Captain Patrell used every morning to wash his face. Captain Patrell stormed out of his former quarters holding a small bundle of books and a bottle of wine, stormed past Lericanin, and headed straight for the stairs without a word. After he passed Lericanin stepped to the door just as the knight captain ordered the furnishings removed and burned and his things brought up as soon as the caravan arrived. After confirming his orders were understood the new commander turned his attention to Lericanin. “Walk with me."
The two of them walked for several minutes in silence until they had reached the upper parapets of the newly constructed keep. The knight captain remained silent while surveying the parade grounds below. Lericanin studied the veteran, noting the highly polished armor, crisp white tabard emblazoned with the black dragon of Kecel, and finely crafted longsword held in a beautifully crafted sheath hanging on the his hip. It seemed as if everything about him was in perfect order, nothing out of place and he was completely and confidently in command. His presence was reassuring and offered the young man hope after a year of drudgery.
My name is Carlton Ulstead, knight of Kecel and newly appointed knight captain of this garrison. As I said earlier I had the honor of serving with your grandfather for many years.”