Storiesonline.net ------- The Thief of Shadows by R22CoolGuy Copyright© 2011 by R22CoolGuy ------- Description: The continuing saga of Aaron Whiterune, exiled Tarran prince, who wields the Runeswords; Black Rose and Red Rose. If you haven't already, I recommend that you read "The Thief of Roses" first. Codes: fant violent ------- ------- Prologue Scottish Highlands 1529. The Bard rang the bell at the local monastery. A friar came to the door and opened a small peep door. "What can we do for you?" the friar asked. "I would like to buy a barrel of whisky," the Bard answered. "Wait a moment please," the friar replied, closing the peep hole. A few moments later the door opened and a rather large rotund man stepped out. Brown hair cropped short, he was wearing a brown coarse homespun robe with a simple hemp rope sash. "I am Father David. Brother James said you would like to purchase a whole barrel of whisky?" "Yes, I would," the Bard answered. "I want to try an experiment. I want to age a barrel for several years. I am hoping it will mellow the flavor, and make the whisky smoother. I would prefer a barrel of single-malt, something that wasn't blended." "We have several barrels that will meet your requirements," Father David replied. "How much were you thinking of spending?" The Bard reached into his shirt and removed a small pouch. Weighing it in his hand, he tossed it to the friar. "Will that cover the cost, as well as a donation?" the Bard asked. Opening the draw string and peering into the pouch of gold coins, the friar replied, "Yes, this is more than generous. Where do you intend to store your barrel?" "Well, I had two ideas," the Bard smiled. "I could store it in a cave in the foothills, or perhaps your monastery would be willing to store it for me?" "Yes, there is more than sufficient payment in here to cover those costs as well," Father David replied. "Good, I will return in ten years," the Bard explained. "At that time I will require you to bottle the barrels contents." "Ten years?" Father David asked, clearly surprised. "A lot can happen in ten years." "I will return in ten years," the Bard countered. "Can you ensure that my barrel will still be here?" "Yes, to the best of my ability," Father David replied. "Then that is the best that I can hope for," the Bard replied. "Then, we have an agreement," Father David stuck out his hand, which the Bard grasped and shook. The friar returned to the monastery and shut the door. "Timekeeper, forward to the time of the inn if you please?" the Bard commanded. "As you wish, my Lord," the sword replied. The sword blade glowed with a bluish tint as its runes glowed silver. The "pocket door" slid open and the Bard stepped through, the door slid closed behind him. ------- Scottish Highlands 1539. The Bard stepped out onto the road leading into the town of Mortlach. Arriving at the town, he stopped at the blacksmith shop and rented a wagon and draft horse. He drove the wagon to the monastery, noting that it had changed very little in ten years. Parking the wagon, he walked up to the door and rang the bell. A friar came to the door and opened a small peep door. "Yes, how may we help you?" the friar asked. "Is Father David available?" the Bard asked. "I bought a barrel of whisky several years ago, and asked him to store it here in the monastery." "Father David has retired," the friar replied. "If you'll wait, I'll fetch Father James." The Bard nodded his head, and the friar closed the peep door. Several moments later the door opened and Father James stepped out. He had changed little in the ten years, a little more gray in his hair, still cropped short. The same coarse home-spun brown robe and hemp rope sash. "It has been many years," Father James stuck out his hand, which the Bard grasped and shook. "You haven't aged at all." "I try to keep fit," the Bard replied. "Although, that doesn't prevent the gray from coming out." "There has been a running wager on whether or not you would show up," Father James smiled, releasing the Bard's hand. "Come, I'll show you to our cellars." The Bard followed Father James into the monastery and to the production cellars. "It is good that you returned when you did," Father James explained. "Good King Henry VIII has broken with Rome. He has abolished all monasteries, and sent out troops to shut them down. We are far from London and his influence, but I fear our days are numbered." "What do you intend to do?" the Bard asked. "Some of the brothers and I will stay," Father James replied. "There is a farm not far from here that Father David bought, and retired to. We have begun moving our distilling process there. When the monastery is closed, we will move to the farm and continue to produce whisky. Actually your idea some ten years ago will make our transition easier." "How is that?" the Bard asked. "Father David in his wisdom, set aside several barrels of our own as well," Father James explained. "Actually, we are excited for your return, so we can sample some while we bottle it. I have sent for Father David and he should be here shortly." When Father David arrived they moved the Bard's barrel to the bottling room. Using earthenware jugs they transferred the contents from the barrels to the jugs, corked them and sealed the lids with wax. The Bard explained filtering through cheese cloth to reduce sediment and increase taste. The aged whisky was certainly mellower and went down smoothly. The friars had put up several barrels of their own every year since the Bard's strange request. They had completely changed over to only aged whisky, and the results were fantastic. The Bard explained different aging times and different pricing, and the friars were eager to experiment. He also suggested they call the aged whisky, 'Scotch' and to only use the single-malt recipe. They helped load the jugs into the procured wagon, and the Bard drove off after accepting a standing offer to come to the monastery, and eventually the farm as often as he liked. The Bard arrived at the inn and talked with the innkeeper about storing his jugs, as well the prospect of selling the aged drink. They toasted the proposition with several glasses of aged scotch. ------- The Bard arrived early for dinner. The dining hall began to fill up while he ate. Sitting back in his chair, smoking his pipe, and holding a glass of wine, he watched the room swell to capacity, and beyond. The innkeeper came over and cleared his table, patting him on the back affectionately. "Knock them dead," he smiled. "The crowd is good. I brought in more ale and wine, as well as hiring several serving girls. It should be a good night." "This story may take longer to tell," the Bard smiled. "It may carry over several nights." "That sounds like coin in my purse," the innkeeper laughed. The Bard got up and made his way to the front of the room, where a cozy chair and table with a decanter and glass had been placed. Standing in front of the chair, he addressed the crowd. "The adventure we are about to start is a continuation of the 'Thief of Roses'," scanning the room as he set the stage. "I am not going to re-visit that particular story, so, if you haven't heard it, get with someone that has, and they should be able to help you understand." "This story, like the last, takes place on the western region of Andor," the Bard picked up his harp and began to play a background melody. "When we left Aaron and Reg, they had just finished meeting with King Thane of Aithen," the Bard began. "Aaron had battled with and killed Lord Malachi, God of Thieves, and killed Malachi's tool, the would-be usurper, Lord Colin Beadle. Their plan was to get their horses and start out for Realto and eventually the Thangdaemon Forest." "Meanwhile, Lord Devlin had been banished from the Ethereal Plane, for his actions, and inactions, concerning the God Thief, as well as his attack on Lady Rannath, Goddess of Light." The Bard put his harp down and sat down in his chair. He poured a glass of wine and raised it in a toast to the audience. "Sit back and be comfortable, have a sip, and without further ado," the Bard paused. "I bring to you, for your listening pleasure, 'The Thief of Shadows'..." ------- Chapter 1 It had been an age since Lord Devlin's corporeal body walked the plains of his home land. A land devastated by war, this veritable wasteland north of the Dragon's Back Mountains welcomed Lord Devlin. He made the journey to his tower on foot, a reminder to himself of his fall from grace. Lord Devlin was a tall being, well over six feet on a thin frame, black eyes and black hair cropped short. Long flowing homespun grey robes and sandaled feet were all the possessions he owned. Cast out of the Ethereal plane, condemned to walk the Material plane, stripped of his Godly powers but not without resources, for Lord Devlin was a Thangdaemon Necromancer. The ability to draw forth the power of Eldritch ran strong in his family line. Lord Devlin's tower stood in the middle of a ravaged valley that once was a lush vale, the stream long since dried up. The black tower stood 30 feet high, built from carved blocks of black obsidian (also called Dragon's Stone), found deep in the caverns of the nearby mountains. The top was capped with a large quartz crystal dome. Stone foundation blocks scattered about, the last remains of the various out buildings destroyed when the land was ravaged. Deactivating the wards and runes, he opened the tower's door and entered. The tower was just as he had left it those many years ago, though dust covered everything. Lord Devlin spoke a word of command and the dust swirled away, disappearing through the tiny cracks and crevices of the stone structure. Looking around his sitting room, Lord Devlin proclaimed, "I am home, such as it is." Moving to the rear of the main floor he opened a door to living quarters. "Josef, attend me," he called out. A tall emaciated body began to form on the bed. Well over six feet tall and dressed in black, the entity sat up, swung his legs over and stood. Short blonde hair with piercing red eyes. "Yes, my lord," Josef bowed low, long canine teeth showing in his smile. "It is good that you are back." The lower level housed a main sitting room, storeroom, kitchen and servant's quarters. Josef left his quarters heading toward the kitchen while Lord Devlin took the spiral staircase to the second level, stopping at the doors to his private study. The second level housed his private quarters, bed chamber and study with attached library. Removing the wards on the door, Lord Devlin entered the study and spoke a word of command, lighting the lanterns in the room. Looking around the room to verify that all was still undisturbed, he moved to a side door which opened to the library. Books and scrolls lined the three opposite walls of the door, in the center of the room stood a large tabletop island cluttered with still more scrolls and books. Walking over to the bookshelf to his left he passed his hand over a book on languages and the bookshelf slid in and to its right revealing a small room. Entering the hidden room Lord Devlin stood before a blonde wood staff with white metal rune-inscribed ends resting on stands on a black onyx altar. Sliding his hands under the staff he gently lifted it up and off of its rests, rotated it to the vertical, and tapped the ground with the heel. Magic flowed from the staff encircling him in red flames. When the flames faded away his grey robe was gone, in its place a hooded crimson robe tied with a black sash which held a small pouch on his left hip and a dagger on his right. Lord Devlin, the Destroyer, had returned. Leaving the hidden room which closed behind him, he backtracked out to the stairway and climbed to the third level and the top of the tower. The third level housed an observation platform covered by a quartz domed ceiling, a laboratory with attached holding room and a small chapel with altar. The holding room which housed instruments of torture and captivity was empty but soon he would fill it. His work would require offerings. Walking out onto the observation platform he surveyed his surroundings. Buildings would need to be rebuilt and the vale restored. First things first, he needed emissaries and he knew where he could find them but he had to wait, for the time was not right. Soon, though, very soon. ------- After collecting their things and bidding the innkeeper and his family goodbye, Aaron and Reg mounted their horses, leaving Aithen behind on their way to Dria and, ultimately, to a castle within the Thangdaemon Forest. They left Aithen mid afternoon and didn't quite make it to the edge of Aithen's borders before they had to stop for the night. They made camp in a small clearing just south of the highway. Aaron spent a couple hours in silent communication with his swords. He didn't learn as much as he hoped. Apparently, all-knowing, all-seeing sentient beings bound in Runeswords weren't all-saying, or at least Aaron's weren't, not that he had anything to compare them against. There were some laws concerning what they could and could not say: nothing directly about their specific powers, unless Aaron discovered it. Basically, yes and no answers, except that Aaron didn't even know the questions. A Runesword would not lie to its wielder, but could withhold information, if not specifically queried. A Runesword can do no harm to its wielder through action or inaction. The sword would obey all commands, unless said commands violated one of the sword laws. There were other laws, but Aaron would have to find them out for himself. While the swords normally would not act on their own, they could act to protect their wielder in certain instances. What those instances might be, they wouldn't elaborate on. Aaron did know that they would leap from their scabbards to his hands when the Gods were about. Aaron learned that his ancestors once ruled a vast empire in this very area before some cataclysmic event that also concerned the Gods, although the swords kept referring to them as the Betrayers. So, apparently, the Gods betrayed the Tarrans somehow or another. They wouldn't say what or why but they apparently carried a grudge. Aaron also learned based on his previous observations that Red Rose could open inter-dimensional gates and that his power crossed all planes. Red Rose could also cleave swords, runes, and wards without injury to his wielder. Nothing could stand against the bite of Red Rose. Black Rose's power also crossed all planes and he could teleport, heal, draw Eldritch and drain the life force from his victims. The last part affected even the normally non-squeamish and morally flexible Aaron. Both swords would perform a "Straight and True", that is, the swords would attack like a shot arrow at a specific target. Unlike an arrow they would re-attack until either the target was eliminated or they were called back by the wielder. The blue flame was a projection of Aaron's power. It seemed that Tarrans manifested Eldritch in blue. Reg continued his practice of harp playing that he started on the trip to the city. Just as before will-o'-wisps gathered and danced while he played. Just like before they spent an uneventful night. This replayed itself again for the next two nights, but the fourth night all would change. Their fourth day on the road began as had the preceding two. They were back on the road early trying to gain ground on their trip. Since their initial departure had been so late in the afternoon, they were reaching the roadside inns either late morning or early afternoon. They hoped by starting their days earlier and extending their travel later each evening, they would get back on track and be able to stop at an inn by the fifth evening, the same inn where Aaron had encountered the Duchess's Guard on his previous trip to Realto. ------- Lord Devlin made his preparations throughout the day. The moon would be full tonight, the perfect night for necromancy. Tonight he would call forth his emissaries. Tonight, he would start his revenge. The sun had set when Lord Devlin left his tower and headed northwest out of the ravaged vale. His summoning would take place at the site of the last battle before the enlightenment and ascension. As the moon began to rise Lord Devlin settled on the spot where he would call forth his knights. While the battle fought here had claimed hundreds, he only needed a few. How many would answer his call he did not know, but some few would. Using his staff he began to draw protection runes in the dirt and ash around him. The dead did not like being disturbed, and while Lord Devlin was powerful, even he didn't like to take chances. With the preparations complete and the moon high in the night sky, Lord Devlin began the incantations to bring forth the dead. Chanting in an ancient tongue, Lord Devlin called forth his minions. Red tendrils of magic flowed forth from his staff across the burnt landscape, entering the ground at numerous locations. Other tendrils rose into the air toward the moon, turning it red, the color of blood. Fog began to rise from the ground as the temperature dropped by several degrees. "My knights, your Lord has need," he called out in that ancient tongue. "Who will answer my call? Who will take up arms in my defense? Who wishes to walk the Material plane once more? Who wishes to partake in carnal pleasures? Who will answer the call?" In several places the ground began to tremble and stir. The dirt moved as the dead rose through the swirling mist. The call was answered by nine. Nine knights from a bygone age sat up and slowly rose from their graves. Nine knights bearing tattered draconic heraldry moved toward Lord Devlin's spot. Time was unkind to the dead. Worms fell from rotted mouths behind tarnished helms. Shredded cloth hung from tarnished mail as nine knights pulled their swords and dropped to one knee. Oaths of allegiance were renewed as Lord Devlin's power renewed the nine. Mail glistened in the light of the red moon, crimson cloaks fluttered in the evening breeze as nine Thangdaemon Knights stood before their Lord, awaiting his command. The knights were tall, well over six feet. Armored in full black adamantine plate mail, faces covered behind black adamantine helms fashioned after dragons. Dragon heads prominent on top of the helm with wings tucked in on the sides protecting the wearer's ears. Large shields bearing the Rampant Dragon heraldry of Thangdaemon on their left arms. Large bastard swords hung in scabbards on their left hips. The Andorian Bastard sword was longer and wider than the more traditional Andorian Longsword. The bastard sword's blade length was eight inches longer at 39", than the 31" of the longsword. The crosspiece of the hilt curved down toward the blade at each end, compared to the straight crosspiece of the longsword. The bastard sword had a more pronounced pommel than the longsword, normally a wheel pommel, inscribed or decorated in some fashion. Perhaps the biggest difference was the hilt itself. The bastard sword was a hand-and-a-half sword, with a grip 4" longer than the single-handed longsword. It took a large warrior to use the bastard sword as a single-handed weapon, and the knights were experts. No body parts showed saved red glowing eyes. Each wore a silver ring with a red gem on the ring finger of their left mailed hand. The rings glowed with the same unholy light as their eyes. "Go forth, my knights for your lord requires offerings," Lord Devlin commanded. "Blood will need to be spilled this night. There are towns south where the chattel live. Go and bring your Lord what he requires, Go!" The knights banged their chests with mailed fists and mounted plate mailed chargers with red glowing eyes and rode out on their master's unholy crusade. ------- It had been a long day of travel for Aaron and Reg. The horses were skittish all day, which slowed their progress. When they finally stopped for the night they had not made as much progress as they hoped. No game could be found, so they were reduced to eating traveling food. Even the fire resisted their best efforts, before finally lighting. A weak, delicate flame that gave off little light. The whole day seemed off somehow. Reg even had to retune Belle twice before he could coax any music out of her. The Will-o'-wisps were slow to show up and seemed nervous this evening, ready to flee at a moment's notice. Even Aaron's swords vibrated in their scabbards. Aaron's questioning only revealed, "that Evil was afoot." Gods, he could have figured that out on his own, he told them, to which they then asked why he had questioned them if he already knew the answer. After several melancholy songs, Reg finally gave up and packed Belle away, after which they settled down for a restless night. They had decided to post a watch because of the swords' words added to the wisp's actions. And it was a good thing that they did, for ghouls attacked right after midnight. Reg drew first watch while Aaron napped. He noticed the moon's foreboding color and woke Aaron shortly before midnight. Several wisps were still bobbing about when the ghouls attacked them. Leaping to their feet and pulling their swords they met the onslaught of ghouls head on. Aaron and Reg moved back-to-back and circled to the right fighting off the wave of attackers. The ghouls, eyes shining red, attacked the wisps first, consuming their light as they slew them. Aaron and Reg fought to protect the rest of the wisps, while trying to keep tooth and nail at bay. The bite or even the scratch from a ghoul was harmful. Infection, fever, diseased flesh and in some cases death await the unlucky recipients of a ghoul attack. And if they were to die in the midst of the fever, the same fate awaited them: To walk the land as a ghoul. Aaron and Reg were surrounded as they fought off the undead; bodies littered the ground as the slow turning wheel of death cut down the ghouls. The wave subsided, giving them a much needed breather. Looking around Aaron noted that all of the Will-o'-wisps were gone. He hoped that many were able to flee, but suspected they had been killed by the ghouls. No lights remained in the area but no ghouls either. The battle had ended as quickly as it began. Aaron and Reg cleaned up their belongings, put out the fire and moved their camp farther down the road. "I've never heard of ghouls attacking in numbers before," Reg remarked as they set up their cold camp. "Neither have I," Aaron agreed. "And where was the graveyard? Don't they just inhabit places like that? What were they doing in this area?" "Something is wrong, all right," Reg agreed. "I guess that was the end of non-watch camping." "Agreed, from now on we set a watch every night," Aaron nodded his head. "If you take the first one, I'll take the last one." "Agreed," Reg yawned, "it's your turn now anyway." And with that Reg laid out his roll, removed his sword and slept with it by his side. Aaron moved around the new camp checking things, while pondering what the evening had meant. He got the feeling that their quest just became a lot harder and vastly more dangerous. They next morning found them on the road early, breaking their fast in the saddle. They were trying to make Realto's borders and an inn by night fall. They had no intentions of spending another night like the one before, caught out in the open. As things turned out, they might have been better off camping along the highway. The sun had already set by the time they spied "The Border Inn". Settling their horses in the stables, they made their way to the inn and secured lodgings for the evening. Finding a table in the back, they had just finished dinner while listening to the local gossip, which wasn't good. People gone missing in the night, graveyards disturbed, graves dug up, crypts overturned, foul things stalking the night and young women abducted were just some of the stories circulated that evening. Aaron and Reg were just about to turn in for the night when their evening fell apart. Aaron was just finishing his pipe when he heard horses whinnying in panic from the stables. He stood up as a low fog began to flow in the front doors of the inn and the temperature began to drop all around them. He could see his breath as he pulled his swords and glanced over at Reg, who was doing the same. His swords howled in anger as they burst into blue flames as their respective runes glowed black and red. Fear gripped the inn's patrons, as a mailed knight entered the dining room. His voice was the voice of death. The sound of bones rattling as he raised his right hand and pointed a mailed finger at Aaron. "Stand aside, worm," the Thangdaemon Knight rasped in a low voice. "I am not here for you this night. But if you interfere, you will pay." Aaron heard the slow rasping intake of breath as the knight sniffed the air and turned toward a table where a family sat; father, mother and young daughter. The knight moved toward their table as Aaron leaped into action. The knight was quick as he spun blocking Black Rose with his shield, sparks flew as metal screamed at metal. Pulling his own sword, which was bathed in red flames, he attacked. Aaron quickly parried with Red Rose. Enchanted sword collided with Runesword as sparks flew around them. Aaron felt the numbing collision all the way up his arm to the shoulder. Aaron quickly retreated, backing up as he swept Red Rose back down across the knight's chest slicing him open, the opening in the mail rapidly closing behind. Taken aback, Aaron quickly brought Black Rose to bear, going for the throat. Again the knight blocked Black Rose with his shield and attacked with his own sword, which Aaron quickly blocked with Red Rose. This time the knight swung his helmed head forward catching Aaron full in the forehead, knocking him backward off his feet. Aaron flew backward skidding on his back until he flipped over, completing a somersault and landing upright on his feet. Reg attacked from the knight's side, distracting him while Aaron gained his wits. Reg was pushed back by the knight's attack, giving ground as he parried the sword trying to stay out of reach of the shield. Aaron pulled power to him as he waded back in swinging Red Rose down on the knight's sword cleaving it in two. The blade fell to the ground sizzling and vanished. The knight screamed in demonic rage as many of the dining patrons fainted from fright. Knocking Reg to the ground with his shield, he spun on Aaron and drove the broken sword at him. Aaron parried the stab up, blocking it out of the way as the knight crashed into him again knocking him backward. As he lay on his back trying to catch his breath, the knight threw the broken sword down and pulled a new sword from the same scabbard. Taking one step forward, he swung the sword down at Aaron who crossed his own swords blocking the attack. Aaron slowly pushed the sword up and away. Reg moved in and swung from behind hitting the knight squarely in the back. The knight didn't even flinch as he spun around and slammed his shield into Reg. As Reg staggered back the knight followed up with a sword strike catching Reg in the side. Reg felt the sword enter his left side and then collapsed to the ground where blood pooled around him. The knight turned and walked over to the family's table. Sheathing his sword, he grabbed the daughter by her hair and dragged her screaming towards the exit. Looking over toward Aaron who was just getting to his feet he taunted, "I told you, worm, stay out of my way." Aaron looked to where Reg had fallen, and then back at the knight. He moved toward Reg, dropping to his knees as he heard the smack of mail against flesh. The screaming stopped with the sound of the knight's laughter as he left the Inn. Sheathing his swords he inspected Reg's wound. It was bad, Reg's breathing was shallow and he was losing a lot of blood. Making the decision that he needed help, he began to remove his left sleeve-glove when Black Rose interrupted him. "My Lord, not that hand," the sword admonished him. "Use your power, or use me, either way the cost to you is less." Aaron nodded and pulled off his right sword glove and placed his right hand on the wound site. Pulling power from his surroundings, Aaron pushed that power into Reg. Aaron could feel the power flow into Reg as it began to repair the damage. As dry land absorbs water droplets, Reg's body absorbed the Eldritch. Power filled the harpist's being. Slowly the bleeding stopped as the wound began to close. Reg's breathing became deeper and less labored. Aaron still poured power into Reg until a few moments later his eyes opened and he stared at Aaron, who finally stopped the flow. "How are you feeling?" Aaron asked wearily. "Water," Reg croaked. "Did you kill it?" "No, I let it go." Aaron turned to a guest, "Wine, please, and hurry!" The man stared at Aaron and then got up and went toward the kitchen. Other patrons were crying including the mother of the girl who had been taken. The man returned with a flagon of ale, "this is all I could find." Handing the flagon to Aaron, who slowly gave to Reg. A few moments' later, guardsmen wearing the livery of the Duke came in and started interviewing everyone concerning what happened. The Captain of the Guard recognized Aaron and saluted him. "My lord, are you okay?" the Captain asked staring at the blood on the side of Aaron's face. "Yes, Captain," Aaron replied. "See to the other guests. That couple over there just lost their daughter, see to them first." Aaron helped Reg to his feet and along with a guardsman guided him to his room and laid him in his bed. "Guard him with your life," Aaron commanded the guardsman, and left. Heading back into the dining room he picked up his glove and Reg's sword and returned to the bedroom, where he had Black Rose heal his head wound. Reg was sitting up in bed, looking a lot better, which Aaron commented on. "Well, I have you to thank for that," Reg replied smiling. "Aaron, who or what in the nine planes of Hell was that?" "I don't know, Reg," Aaron replied, shaking his head. "But you might not be too far off invoking Hell." "He cleaned the floor up with us," Reg remarked. "I hit him several times and he didn't even flinch." "Reg, I opened him up with Red Rose," Aaron replied. "The wound closed behind the strike. I cleaved his sword and he pulled a new one from his scabbard. He wasn't natural, that's for sure." "I feel bad about that girl," Aaron sighed, dropping his head. "But you were badly hurt, dying. I had to make a choice and I chose you." "And I thank you for it," Reg smiled. "I knew by the wound that I was in deep trouble. If you hadn't done what you did, I'd be standing before my Lady this very night." "Reg, there is something I have to tell you." Aaron reached out and grasped his arm. "When I healed you, I think I may have altered you." "What do you mean you altered me?" Reg asked. "Reg, your left eye is blue," Aaron replied, "but your right eye is still brown." "I don't care if it's purple," Reg smiled. "I'm alive, and that's all that matters." "Reg, get some rest," Aaron commanded. "This guardsman will protect you tonight. I need to talk to the Captain of the Guard. Goodnight." ------- It was several hours later when the last of the knights returned to the tower. He noted that the construction of a barracks and stables for the nine was complete, as he dismounted from his horse and led his bounty into the sitting room of the tower. Lord Devlin was sitting in a lounge chair, his feet up and resting on the back of a naked girl, who was on all-fours in front of him, whip marks clearly visible on her back. He was enjoying a glass of wine in front of the fire, contemplating his evening's entertainment. His gaze was on the two naked girls, chained to either side of the fireplace on their knees, thighs spread and hands bound behind, when the last knight returned from his journey. "I encountered the princeling, my lord," the knight informed his master, going to one knee and pulling the girl down with him. "He was not that powerful, and will not soon forget the meeting." "Where did you encounter him?" Lord Devlin asked. "What town was close to that inn, slave?" the knight stood, and asked the whimpering girl. "Realto, good sirs," she answered, head down and crying. "Please let me go." Reaching down and backhanding the girl, the knight turned back to his master, "Realto." "Well done, my captain," Lord Devlin smiled as a red gem appeared in the mail above the knight's left breast. "Send two knights in the morning to trail him. If they cross his path have them test him. I want to know the extent of his powers. Have them keep you posted." "Yes, my lord," the Captain banged his chest with his fist. "Thank you, my lord." "The pens are full and offerings have been made. I even had enough to use as furniture," he laughed, sweeping his hand toward his feet. "I gift this latest one to you and your brothers to use as you will." "My lord, we thank you," the captain banged his chest with his fist and dragged the screaming girl out to the barracks, where her screams and cries could be heard long into the night. It was several hours later when her dead battered body was thrown to the wolves. Her death would seem peaceful compared to the torment awaiting the others. ------- Chapter 2 Reg was much stronger the next morning, so they decided to push on to Realto, and speak to the Duke. Aaron had talked with the captain for several hours after Reg fell asleep. Although the rumors said otherwise, the captain knew of no other abductions in Realto, or sightings of the knight. He hadn't seen, or knew of the heraldry either. Aaron was going to check with the library at Realto, as well as asking his father. A lot of conjecture, but no facts. After breakfast they mounted their horses and continued their journey to Realto. They arrived in Realto in the late afternoon, and made straight for the manor house of the Duke. The Duke, alerted to their arrival, met them at the stables and escorted them inside, to his private study. "The captain informed me of the events from the inn last night," Thandar began. "But I want to hear it from you, get your impressions. Aaron replayed the events from last night, in their entirety. He also gave him his impressions. He then had questions for the Duke. No, Thandar had never seen the heraldry that Aaron described. Yes, the Duke had sent riders to the other towns, and strengthened the patrols, and increased their frequency. The Duke could see that Reg was still weak from the attack, so he bid him good day, and had him escorted to his room, to lie down. After Reg left, he spoke to Aaron about the events in Aithen. "I've sent Weaver to Aithen under heavy guard," Thandar began. "The King wanted him there, to give more credence to your report." "Yes, I guess some of Lord Beadle's relatives are complaining," Aaron replied. "Not that I care, his death is the least of my worries now." "Do you plan on continuing this errand you have?" Thandar asked. "Yes, I really have no choice," Aaron replied. "I gave my word, and my hand. I have to see it through. This armored knight worries me though, I got several clean hits on him, and it was as though I never touched him. I'm not sure if any of Reg's attacks even did any damage. I don't have enough information to combat it effectively, and it was certainly hardy." "Gods forbid there be more than one," Aaron grimaced. "Two knights would have cut me down." "Spend some time in the library," Thandar replied. "Look in the older section, there are books there that were discovered when the foundation for the manor house was excavated." "Alright I will, and thank you," Aaron nodded. "By your leave, Father? "Certainly, take Micah with you," Thandar replied. Aaron left the study, finding Micah standing outside the door waiting. Together they went to the library, and began going through the books in the old section. ------- Two Thangdaemon Knights left the tower at dawn, traveling south through the Wastelands. Using a hidden passage through the mountains brought them onto the Central Plains, where they turned east toward Realto, and Aaron. They crossed fields and farmlands, but kept their focus on Realto. They didn't need to stop at night, and since their mounts moved at great speeds, they made fast time towards Aithen's western border. They crossing it early in the morning, skirted the city, and continued on toward Realto. ------- "Milady, there are new developments on the Material plane," a Godling reported to Lady Rannath. "What is it?" Lady Rannath asked, fading into view. "Lord Devlin has taken up the Staff of Power, and raised Thangdaemon Knights, milady," the Godling replied. "We suspected as much," she sighed. "Keep watch, I'll inform the others. Their followers may need help." "Yes, milady," the Godling replied. Lady Rannath faded away. ------- After several hours of searching, they were ready to give up when Micah stumbled upon an old book written in an unknown language. "Aaron, I think I found something," Micah exclaimed. "At least there is a picture similar to what you described." Aaron looked in the book, and sure enough there was the rampant dragon, identical to the shield markings. This particular heraldry was of a rampant black dragon on a crimson field. The language was definitely archaic, not any of the languages spoken in this age, not even High Elven, the language of Kings. Looking further in the book, Aaron made an astonishing discovery: there was a section with pictures showing Black Rose and Red Rose, and the signet ring he wore. A whole page of information associated with them, and another page showing a bounding silver hart, with a golden crown of antlers, on a sky blue field. Aaron didn't know for sure, but he thought it might be the heraldry for the Tarrans. There were other heraldries, including one he thought he had seen before. A large white tree, with a silver crown of leaves, on a pale green field, tickled his memories, but he couldn't quite place where he had seen it. "Well, this is definitely interesting," Aaron agreed. "It would be better if I understood the language. Let's take it to Father. I'd like to keep it." They cleaned up the library, and returned to the Duke's study, and showed him the book. He agreed to let Aaron keep it, only asking Aaron to let him know if he ever got it translated. Aaron spent a quiet evening with the Duke, Micah, and Isabelle, who had passed her test, and was now a full member of the Sorcerers' Guild. She had moved in to the guest quarters in the Duchess's Wing, which was where the female servants quarters was located, so she wouldn't be lonely. She was being tutored alongside Micah, and excelled in mathematics and the sciences. She quickly became one of the family. Both the Duke and Micah were pleased. The next morning found Aaron practicing in the training arena, under the watchful eye of Swordmaster Caleb. Reg was outside too, sitting in a chair, watching the training. Aaron had replayed the fight with the knight for Master Caleb, looking for ways to counter, or get an advantage. Since Aaron had little in the way of armor, standing toe-to-toe with a fully armored knight was akin to suicide. They discussed different techniques and strategies to compensate for the disparity in armor, and then Aaron practice them over and over. Aaron also had some ideas utilizing his sword's abilities, but that wasn't something he was willing to share with his old master. Master Caleb could find no fault in Aaron's practice, and told him so. If and when Aaron encountered that knight, he would be prepared. The pupil who was already a master, no longer required instruction. After cleaning up, Aaron and Reg spent more time in the library. Aaron showed Reg the book and the heraldry that Aaron had seen before. Reg agreed that it was familiar, but also could not remember where he had seen it. Then he remembered, and reminded Aaron of a tapestry on the wall in Mara's parlor. Aaron agreed that that was where he had seen it. More investigation in the library turned out to be fruitless. No further information was discovered, and no further writings in the unknown language, or references to the language were found. The search had reached a dead end. Reg announced that he was fit, and plans were made to leave in the morning, spend the night in Dria, and enter the forest in the following morning. Since there was no information on what was in the forest, they figured an early morning start would be the safest course. Aaron thought about Lady Rannath and the night they spent together. He hoped she was well; he hadn't had much need of her assistance as of late. Not since the fight with Malachi, and she wasn't able to help him then. He decided to depend more on himself and his two Runeswords, and less on divine providence, although in truth, he might just be trading one deity for two others. ------- Lady Rannath had questions that needed answers. There was only one place she knew of where she might find her answers. She planned to call upon the Seeress, and asked Lady Melody to accompany her on her trip. "He thinks of you, doesn't he, sister?" Lady Melody asked. "What makes you say that?" Lady Rannath asked in reply "Well your face gets this glow, and the corners of your mouth turn up in a little smile," Melody replied. "It's really quite nauseating." "Thank you, very much," Rannath laughed. "And yes, just because you asked, he is thinking about me." "Although, he is also thinking that he needs to be more self-reliant," Rannath sighed. "I guess it is for the best, he is still my Paladin and Champion, but our relationship is changing. For several reasons, I must pull back." "Is that why we are going to see Her?" Melody asked. "Yes, I have questions for her," Rannath nodded. "Not all concern him, but some do. You'll wait outside for me?" "Of course," Melody replied, nodding her head. "What else is there to do?" The Seeress had a small dwelling, whose entrance was located far away, though still on Andor, half a world away from Aaron and Reg. The location was hidden in a mountain pass, by way of a barely navigable game trail. Power and magic were uncontrollable there, so they had to walk there, through a perpetual swirling snow storm. Finally locating the entrance, Rannath asked Melody to wait outside and entered. "Come in child," an elderly lady sat at a tapestry loom. "It has been many years since I've had visitors. Please come in and sit down." Rannath looked around the meagerly furnished hut. For although she entered from the mouth of a cave, she was standing in a thatched hut, the air warm and humid. She wasn't all that sure she was still on Andor, let alone still on the Material plane. Finding a small chair by the loom, she sat down. The woman was beautiful, even in her elderly state. Long auburn-red braided hair, emerald green eyes, with freckles marching across a pert nose. She was simply dressed in a white linen gown, sitting at a loom, working on a large tapestry. "Well, child," she stopped her work and looked at Rannath with a critical eye. "You have certainly caused me some little work. While I can weave an unruly strand or two into place without affecting the overall piece, I can hardly start over, or change the pattern completely." "I am sorry, Great Mother," Rannath sighed. "I never intended for this to happen." "Child, you may be able to lie to yourself," she admonished, "but do not lie to me." "You knew what he was when he first touched your thing of power," she accused gently. "No mere mortal, not of your faith could have used it without being consumed. Yet, he, a thief of all things, and certainly not of the Light, picked up your holy relic, and used it to do his will. Surely you knew he must be more?" "I wasn't sure," Rannath lowered her head. "It had been so long, I wasn't sure what he was." "But you knew when you first communed with him, you should have felt it then," she continued. "I cannot see how you couldn't. Did you not know what he could become, what he would do, loose among this age?" "I had hoped, if let alone that it would not happen," Rannath conceded. "But it seemed no matter how hard I tried, or cautioned non-interference by others, it didn't matter. Almost as if there were outside influences guiding his path." "When you first proposed your plans to my brothers and I, we thought it a perfect solution to our dilemma," she smiled. "We had each lovingly created races that advanced to the point where they would not coexist with each other, but more importantly, could not live amongst the younger races. We knew that before long, you three would enslave the younger races, and consume them in your war." "Each thought that they were greater than the other two," she smiled, "yet they were meant to live in harmony. Not only did that not happen, but they became a threat to any other race that might follow." "I know, we were so arrogant and petty," Rannath acknowledged. "Even our plan was arrogant. Our help, in exchange for enlightenment, and ascension to a higher plane of existence. Well, we certainly got that." "Perhaps, but it provided a solution to a problem we were unwilling, for many reasons to correct," she admitted. "You were wolves amongst sheep; why not assist you to become better. By that point, my brothers were ready to withdraw from this Mythos and start again elsewhere. Your plan provided an opportunity there as well." "Are we better?" Rannath asked. "We betrayed our brethren. I betrayed my betrothed. I condemned him to death at the hands of others, and did nothing. How better is that?" "Now, we are at the heart of the matter," she smiled. "You thought to atone for your presumed betrayal, to rekindle love in his descendant? Surely, you must realize that this thief is not your beloved, no matter that they share the same blood, or how similar their looks?" "Is that why you laid with him, knowing that in doing so you would conceive, and bear his child, a male child?" She asked. "That a union between the two of you, would produce a male heir to The Rose Throne, and what, the three of you would live happily ever-after?" "I fell in love!" Rannath cried. "Is that so bad?" "Yes! You meddled in things that you lack the understanding of," she proclaimed, raising her voice. "That one act has set many things in motion, events that you know nothing of. A single pebble thrown into calm waters will cause many ripples." "I am sorry," Rannath cried softly. "It was foolish of me, a momentary weakness. You say he is different, but his mannerisms, his loyalty, and single-mindedness are all the same, it was easy to dream. But now, in the cold light of day, I realize my mistakes, but what of the child?" "Before I answer that, answer me this," she replied. "What are your intentions; will you step down, turn away, and go be with him?" "I've thought long on it," Rannath answered. "I will not shirk my responsibilities on the Ethereal plane. Besides, if he were to ever find out how his ancestors were defeated, and banished, I fear he would never forgive me. The answer is no, I am, and shall always be, the Goddess of Light." "What are your plans, concerning your son?" she asked. "I don't know," Rannath admitted. "Will you tell me his fate?" "On his birth you will bring him to me," she proclaimed. "I will place him where he will grow strong and true." "As to his fate," She leaned forward, staring Rannath in the eye. "He will take up the hand of Death, and walk in the shadow of Doom." "His father will be tempted, but will resist," she continued. "The son will not. He will feel abandonment, and will seek retribution. He will take up his blood right, and his actions will calm the ripples, and restore the pattern." "No! It will consume him in the end," Rannath wailed. "As it always consumes, there must be some other way, please?" "Death comes to us all in the end," she reminded Lady Rannath. "That is the first law." "I am sorry Lady Rannath," she replied, placing a comforting hand on Rannath. "Do not think that I set him on this path lightly. He is as much my child as yours, his race was created by my hand, but this is the only way to bring back the balance." "Do not interfere in this," she tightened her grip. "Now it is time for you to return. Go in peace, but do not forget to deliver him to me on his birth." "I will not forget, Great Mother," Rannath replied, stood up, and left the hut. "Did you get your answers, Rannath?" Melody asked. "Yes, I did," Rannath replied. "I now know what I must do. Come, we must be getting back." ------- Aaron and Reg headed out first thing in the morning. The weather was unpredictable and erratic the past few days, and this day was no exception. A cold drizzle had started falling late the night before, and a cold wind swept down out of the north. All and all, a damp way to start the day, but they were eager to get to Dria, so they set out anyway. The drizzle stopped about midday, so they stopped, shook out their wet traveling cloaks, and had a cold lunch about where Aaron had first met Lady Melody. He remarked as much to Reg, who then spent time in meditation with his Lady. They were still about half a day's journey from Dria, so they didn't stay long. The road was quiet, and they saw no other travelers or patrols. Aaron started to feel strange sensations as they approached the section of the highway that cut through the Thangdaemon forest. His senses were all over the place, and strong emotions flooded him from all around. Aaron finally pulled in Thorn's reins and took several deep breaths, trying to calm his nerves. "Are you alright?" Reg called out, turning his horse back around. "What's wrong?" "I don't know," Aaron responded, clearly agitated. "Give me a moment." Aaron collected himself, and urged Thorn forward again. "Reg, the forest is trying to talk to me. I can feel it. Something isn't right, and this isn't the first time this has happened." "Maybe as we travel further into the forest tomorrow, you'll get a better sense for what's happening," Reg suggested. "Maybe. I hope so," Aaron replied. "This uneasiness is starting to get to me. It's distracting, at a time when I don't need to be distracted. I'll be fine. Let's just get to Dria." As they traveled away from the spot where Aaron felt the discomfort a large hart stepped out on the road from the forest, and watched them. The stag was old, with a silver mane and silver velvet on his massive crown of antlers. The hart turned around and started pawing the road with his hoof as two mailed riders approached. The two Thangdaemon Knights stopped, and watched the hart move slowly toward them. The knights began to back their horses up, as the hart approached, antler tips glowing with a silvery light. Three other stags stepped out of the forest behind the silver hart. The knights turned their horses around and galloped off, back the way they came. The three stags bowed their heads to the silver hart, and faded back into the forest. The hart continued to stand guard in the middle of the highway. ------- They arrived in Dria just before dinner, and decided to stay at the same inn where they had met up several weeks ago. Miss Sara was happy to welcome them back to the 'Cracked Kettle', and served them dinner in the main dining hall. After dinner Reg entertained the other guests, while Aaron enjoyed his pipe, and relaxed. He didn't have long to relax as a low fog rolled in through the inn's doors, as the temperature dropped inside. Leaping to his feet, Aaron drew both swords, and began drawing power, in preparation for the attack. Reg quickly put Belle down and pulled his own sword, shouting to the other guests. "Get down, and back away from the front, quickly now." ------- "Thangdaemon Knights in Dria?" Mara exclaimed, watching the events from her fireplace. "That boy isn't ready, and I don't have my stone." "Two knights will kill him, what to do, oh, what to do?" Mara tapped her chin, still intent on the events within the fireplace. "What's this? He can tap Eldritch?" she asked, surprised. "Hmm, maybe he's better prepared than I thought." "Well, use it boy, come on," Mara spoke to the fire. "Why doesn't he attack? Is it possible he doesn't know how? I am going to have to interfere, but how?" "Hmm," tapping her chin again, finally coming to a conclusion. "Yes, that will work." ------- Aaron moved toward the front of the dining room, both swords ablaze in blue light, runes glowing, as Aaron continued to draw power from the surrounding area. Two Thangdaemon Knights entered the inn, dressed exactly like the first knight Aaron encountered. They pulled their swords simultaneously, and stood at the ready, shields up. "Well, princeling, we'll give you first move," the knight to Aaron's right declared. "What will it be?" "Use your power as a weapon," a familiar voice in Aaron's head said. "Strike out with it." Aaron looked around, and behind him, looking for the source of the voice. "What is it, princeling?" the fell warrior asked. "Looking for an exit, a place to run to?" "I'm not behind you, boy," Aaron heard in his head. "My first assessment was correct, you are dense!" "Lash out with the power you have stored, quickly now," Mara admonished him, and then sent him a mental picture of a WitchLord attacking with Eldritch. Aaron shook his head to clear it, and then complied with Mara's instruction. With all the subtlety and control of a Wildebeest in a Sorcerer's shop, Aaron pushed all of the power he had stored up, out through his left hand. The power flowed into Red Rose, which amplified and focused the power, and out through the tip, pointed straight at the two armored knights. The attack was truly memorable, had Aaron stayed conscious long enough to witness it. Reg stood in awe, as blue lightning sprang out of the end of Aaron's shortsword, and enveloped both knights in a swirling maelstrom of blue energy. The energy was so bright that Reg had to shield his eyes as the light rose in intensity, and a howling wind whipped the inside of the inn. Finally the maelstrom reached a crescendo and exploded outward, blowing both knights out through the doors of the inn. Reg watched Aaron fall to the ground, and rushed to his side. He still gripped Red Rose in his hand, the runes on the sword still glowing brightly. Reg checked for a pulse, and after finding one, checked Aaron's breathing, which was deep and strong. Aaron was unconscious, but very much alive. Reg looked around the devastated dining room, patrons huddled in the back crouched and looking bewildered. The main doors to the inn were blown outward, the surrounding walls scorched, tables and chairs still smoldering. The place was a disaster area, but more important was that the two knights were nowhere to be found. Miss Sara came rushing over with two men, who picked Aaron up, still clutching Red Rose, and carried him to his bed, where Sara took charge of watching over him. Reg meanwhile, talked with the night watch who showed up after the devastation, and helped supervise the temporary repairs to the dining room, and the main doors of the inn. Checking the area outside the inn revealed little information. The ground around the inn's entrance was scorched. Reg found two silver rings with red gems, each lying in a small mound of black ash. Using a stick, Reg gently picked up the rings, and placed them in a leather bag. Reg returned to the inn and checked on Aaron's status. ------- Aaron's eyes fluttered open, and he found himself lying on a white settee, in a white pavilion. A beautiful maiden with long reddish hair, green eyes, and freckles, dressed all in white, was leaning over him mopping his brow with a white linen cloth. He was dressed in a white linen gown as well, and he noticed his left hand was clenched in a fist. He tried to unclench it, to no avail, looking around, he saw two figures flanking the settee, arms crossed, facing outward toward the entrance of the pavilion. The entities flanking the settee were wearing some kind of scale type mail. The one wearing black mail was taller than the one wearing red mail. Their backs were turned toward Aaron so he couldn't see their faces. On closer inspection, he determined they weren't wearing mail at all, the scaly surface was their skin. Massive hulks, muscles rippling across their shoulders, backs, legs, and arms. Shaved heads, with the exception of a lone braided stalk of silver hair in the center of the back of their skull, hanging down to mid back. Ears somewhat pointed, and laid back flat on the skull. They were some type of reptilian creature, or something else entirely. "I was wondering when you would wake," the maiden smiled at him. "What do you remember?" "I'm not real sure," Aaron replied slowly. "I remember being in an inn in Dria, I think and then two knights attacked us. Where am I now, and who are you?" "Well, I could tell you that I am a figment of your imagination and that this is all a dream," she smiled spreading her arms out. "But I won't, your uncontrolled use of your power drove your spirit out of your body, and it came here." "My name is Melvina," she smiled. "It's Celtic for handmaiden, but then you wouldn't know what Celtic is, would you? Never mind, I don't wish to confuse you. You are in my realm. My brothers and I live here." "Get some rest," she smiled again. "Soon you'll be strong enough to search out your corporeal self, and return to your body." "Wait, I have many questions," Aaron reached out and gently put his right hand on her arm. "I don't usually answer questions, or grant boons," she patted his hand. "You may ask me one thing, and if it is with in my power, I will grant it." Aaron thought for a moment on all of the things he wanted to ask, and then decided on the most important. "You said that I came here because of my uncontrolled use of my power," He replied. "You must know how to control it, would you teach me?" "I will show you how to properly control what you already know how to use," she replied. "Nothing more will I reveal." "Thank you," Aaron replied. "I will plant the information in your head," she explained. "When next you have need, the information will be there. Now when I touch your forehead you will feel a sharp pain, and will black out. When next you awake, you will be back in your body." "Hail, and well met, Aaron Whiterune," she proclaimed, and then leaned over and kissed his forehead. Aaron felt an explosion of pain, and blacked out. ------- The captain of the Thangdaemon Knights entered the Black Tower and genuflected, bowing his head and grabbing the hilt of his sword. "Arise, Captain," Lord Devlin commanded. "You have news?" "Yes, my Lord," the captain stood. "I have lost contact with my brothers, who you ordered sent out to watch the princeling." "Hmmm," Lord Devlin closed his eyes in concentration. "They are no longer on this plane of existence. Unfortunate, yes, most unfortunate. What if any information did they provide, before you lost contact?" "They tracked him to a small town on the border of the forest, my Lord," the captain replied. "They planned to confront him and determine his strength, if any. That was the last I heard from them. If they confronted him I do not know." "On the border of the forest you say?" Lord Devlin asked. "What is he up to? Could he be going to the castle? Is he trying to increase his power?" "My Lord, when I encountered him he demonstrated no power at all," the captain replied. "If he had power, he would have used it against me. Perhaps someone or something interceded on his behalf?" "Either way, I still do not know the extent of his power," Lord Devlin mused. "I am concerned that he may make his way to the castle, and find an advantage." "It will be another full-moon before I can replenish your ranks," Lord Devlin explained. "In the meantime, I want caution exercised when, or if, any of your brethren confront him." "Yes my Lord," the captain bowed his head. "Do you want another patrol sent out?" "Not yet," Lord Devlin replied. "I will make inquiries first. Anything further, Captain?" "No, my lord," the captain genuflected. "Arise, and return to your duties," Lord Devlin commanded. The captain stood banged his fist to his chest, turned and left the tower. ------- Aaron's eyes fluttered open, and he found himself in a bed in his room, still gripping Red Rose. A beautiful maiden dressed in a green gown leaned over him, placing a cool compress on his brow. "I was wondering when you would wake," Miss Sara smiled at him. "What do you remember?" "I remember everything, I think," Aaron replied, feeling quite refreshed. "Well, everything right up to the attack by the two knights. I take it by the fact that I'm still alive, that the knights are gone? "You don't remember?" Sara asked, smiling down at him. "You cast a spell of some sort, and it drove them off. It tore up my inn a little, but I already forgave you for that. You saved us all." "Well, I don't know about all that," Aaron replied. "I was just trying to help." He noticed that two guardsmen had taken up station at the foot of the bed, facing toward the room's door. "Where is Reg?" Aaron asked. "Is he okay?" "Yes, he's fine," Sara replied, stroking his hair. "I'll send him to you in a little while, but first you should rest some more. The guards will see that you aren't disturbed." Sara reached over and kissed his forehead, and got up and followed the guards to the door. She turned back and smiled, closing the door gently. ------- As she reached full consciousness her awareness expanded, and she reached outward sensing, like a snake using its tongue. What she learned confused her. A Tarran WitchLord alive, and walking the land, bearing Runeswords. Stranger still, a Thangdaemon Necromancer alive as well. That age had ended when she first began her hibernation, yet still her senses didn't lie. Eldritch power had been tapped like it had in the elder days. This must be the reason for her awakening. Hunger drove her to the surface, looking for food. Curiosity gave her a reason to rejoin the world. ------- Chapter 3 Her name was Tanith, and she was the last of the great Wyrms of the Sky, as alike to dragons as humans were to chimpanzees. She primarily walked on powerful hind legs, but ran on four. She leaped to flight on massive wings that could carry her for hours at heights that would make the most stalwart of hearts squeamish. She was as nimble in the air as the most graceful dancer on the ground. She was a platinum female in her prime and she was looking for a mate. Wyrms were near twice the size of dragons and could spew both fire and acid. She was also sentient, able to speak multiple dialects, cast spells, and shape-shift, but most importantly, she could scribe runes with her front leg talons. Her native tongue was the first language of Eldritch, of which she was a high Adept. In short, she was a force to be reckoned with. Crawling to the mouth of her cave, she weaved one of her right front talons in an intricate pattern and spoke a word of un-warding. Rocks moved, and the opening of her cave appeared, crawling through it she breathed deep the new air. Taking several moments to stretch unused muscles, she leaped into the air with powerful legs and beat her wings gaining altitude. "Flight," she cried in delight as she rose into the sky in an ever increasing circular pattern. Searching from overhead for food, she spied a herd of wildebeest. Tucking her wings in, she dove down and swept by the herd snagging two young cows. Swinging the animal up into the air and catching it with her mouth she consumed one and then the other one. Circling back she made another run on the stampeding herd, grabbing two more and consuming them as well. She made several more runs before sating her hunger. Returning to the entrance of her cave she transformed to her alter-shape. A beautiful woman dressed in a platinum sequined gown walked back down the cavern to her lair. She was small, slightly over 90 pounds and just shy of five feet. Silver hair fell to the small of her back. Sapphire crystal blue eyes swirled in an ever changing hypnotic pattern. A single teardrop pearl hung from a platinum circlet around her forehead. Skin so pale that the blue of veins shown through. The dress was sequined in overlapping platinum disks, giving it an almost scaled appearance, scooped in the front, exposing the tops of firm breasts. A jewel encrusted gold chain belt cinched her waist. Gesturing with her hands and speaking a word of command, a strong fresh wind rushed through and swept up the years of debris. Her den was transformed into a plush sitting room with bookshelves, paintings and tapestries on the walls, several chairs and a fireplace. Looking at a tapestry map of the western continent she pondered her next move. After determining that the power usage had come from the east, she chose a duchy west of the old high city of Aithen to start her search. The duchy was called Malkur and it was a medium sized city-state. "Yes," she thought. "Malkur would be a perfect place to re-enter civilization." She packed a small traveling bag and changed from the gown to black leather pants, bloused in black leather boots. A platinum sequined bustier that flared at the hips and had off the shoulder silk sleeves. Her hair entwined in twin braids banded together in several places hung like a tail to the small of her back. Belting on a slim jewel encrusted rapier and matching parrying dagger she was ready to leave. Walking back up to the mouth of her cave, she wove an intricate pattern in front of the mouth while speaking words of command. The rocks piled up on each other as the entrance to her lair disappeared. Satisfied with her work, she disappeared. ------- Aaron felt refreshed and invigorated when he woke up. He spent time in practice and form and then went searching for Reg. They had a long discussion concerning the events from the previous evening. Reg showed him the rings and described the scene outside of the Inn. Aaron kept the part about his dream quiet, he wasn't sure he could describe it adequately anyway. They determined to press on this morning and enter the forest to get to their castle objective as soon as possible, before they encountered any other knights. They were in the dining room eating breakfast when Miss Sara joined them. Reg had already given her a bag of gold coins to cover the damage to the inn. "You are welcome here anytime," she smiled sitting down. "There are other improvements I would like to make." "It does seem that I tend to tear up the place when I visit," Aaron laughed. "Seriously though," Sara reached over and placed her hand on his arm. "There will always be a place available for you here." "Sara," Aaron smiled sadly. "I am not what you are looking for. My path is long and dangerous and not the path for a beautiful woman. I cannot give you what you deserve and I do not want to lead you on." "Thank you for being honest," Sara held back tears. "Have a safe trip. I have to check on the kitchen." She got up in a hurry, nodded to Reg and walked toward the kitchen. Just before she entered Aaron saw her shoulders slump as she began to sob. "Well, on that happy note I think it's time to go," Reg proclaimed and stood up. "Coming?" Aaron looked up at Reg, nodded, looked back at the door to the kitchen and stood as well. He left a small bag of gold on the table and followed Reg out to the stables, where their horses were already saddled and ready. They walked their horses to the outskirts of town toward the highway and the forest. They passed signs proclaiming the end of the protected and patrolled highway, mounted their horses and road off southeast toward an unknown fate. Aaron instantly felt the pull of an unknown presence. The feeling and presence was the same as when he travelled on the road to Dria on the King's errand, months ago. "Come, WitchLord, release me," Aaron heard in his head. Reining in Thorn, he stopped in the middle of the road. "Aaron, what is it?" Reg asked. "Nothing, I'm fine," Aaron replied. "It's that same feeling again, give me a moment please." "Black Rose, Red Rose; do either of you know who is calling me?" Aaron asked his swords. "My Lord, you called?" the swords answered in unison. "Did either of you know who is calling me?" Aaron asked again, this time slowly. "My Lord, is there something you require?" the swords asked in unison. "No," Aaron replied, clearly exasperated. "Well, that is certainly strange," Aaron thought. "I don't like this, either they are being vague, or being blocked. Either way that spells trouble for me." Urging his horse forward, he started down the road, "I'm fine, Reg. Let's put some distance behind us." Entering the forest was like walking into a darkened room. One moment daylight and blue skies, the next moment twilight and broad live oak, ash, and maple trees whose canopies blocked out the sun. The forest was alive though with bird songs, squirrel chirping, and insect noises. Like everywhere else that the highway went, the forest grew right up to the edge of the road but didn't encroach on it. No weeds, grass or tree roots ventured onto the stone work. The highway kept nature at bay. Here and there Reg saw flashes of movements behind the trees bordering the highway. "Aaron, I think we are being followed, or at least watched," he remarked, seeing movement behind a tree. "Yes, for the last hour or so," Aaron replied, scanning the area. "I don't think we are in danger. Not yet, anyway." "That's comforting," Reg chuckled. "You always know how to put a positive spin on things." "Have you noticed that it feels as if time has stopped?" Reg asked. "I mean, I know we have been on the road for a few hours, but it seems like we are getting nowhere. Everything looks the same, like we are walking in place." "Reg, you are being paranoid," Aaron replied. "It's because the canopy is so thick you can't see the sun marching across the sky. Look there, the road is bending to the left, turning more easterly, so we are making progress." Sure enough the road did bend more easterly in direction. They rode on for a little while longer and started looking for a place to stop and eat lunch. Presently they rounded a bend and came across a small trail off the highway, heading south toward what sounded like bubbling water - a brook or stream. They left the highway and took the trail which opened up into a small clearing next to a pool of water fed by a stream. Dismounting, they began to break out fixings for lunch when they were surrounded by 15 creatures holding cocked arrows from short bows. The humanoids, both male and female were approximately four feet tall, green skin with hair the color of gray moss and eyes the color of tree bark. Angular faces, pointed ears with several piercings, small noses, high cheek bones and no eyebrows. The males were dressed in loincloths of animal skins, the females adding a leather halter, both were bare-footed. Long knives on leather belts, quivers of arrows across their shoulders. They may have been little, but they looked formidable. "You are trespassing on protected land," a female warrior approached Reg. "When you left the protection of the road you forfeited your life." "We didn't know," Reg responded. "Who are you?" "We are called Sidhe and we are the protectors of this forest," she responded. "Remove your weapons and lay them down." "If our lives are forfeit," Aaron asked as he slowly moved his hands toward his sword hilts and started drawing power from the forest. "Why should we surrender to you?" Aaron sent a mental picture to Black Rose of his intentions and then had Black Rose teleport him behind the female sidhe who addressed them. Aaron reached out and held her fast with his right hand and placed Red Rose at her throat. "Stop!" he commanded as magic flowed all around him. "If one of you moves she dies first!" No one moved for several moments and then an elderly sidhe male appeared at the edge of the clearing. Walking with the aid of a staff he entered the circle facing Aaron. "Be at peace, WitchLord," he said. "We mean you no harm." "That's not the impression I got," Aaron replied, still holding the sword at the warrior's throat. "Who are you and why do you call me WitchLord?" "Reg, are you okay?" Aaron asked, staring at Reg, who wasn't moving. "My name is Cael," the old sidhe replied. "Your friend is immobilized, as are my warriors. We name you what you are or what you will become." "Well un-immobilize my friend," Aaron replied. "Or you will not be at peace." "We did not command them to stop, WitchLord," Cael replied smiling. "You did. Eldritch combined with words becomes magic, real magic. Only you can undo it." "Well since I'm not sure how I combined the two," Aaron replied, stepping back from the woman, "I don't know how to reverse it. Perhaps you would instruct me?" "Yes, we can do such a thing," Cael replied. "Reach out and feel the binding in place, then just pull the magic back and release it." Aaron felt with his inner self and saw the magic flowing around the circle holding everyone in place immobilized. Drawing the flow back in, Aaron released the magic. It was as if time started again, the warriors all dropped their bows, arm muscles fatigued from holding bow strings taut for too long. Reg breathed a big sigh of relief and looked around. "Aaron, don't ever do that to me again," Reg exclaimed. "I could hear everything but my body wouldn't move." "Sorry, Reg," Aaron replied with a sheepish grin. "Cael, why did your warriors initially ambush us, and why do you now say we should be at peace?" "WitchLord, we have protected this forest from intrusion for many years," Caleb explained. "The hunting party was merely fulfilling their responsibility. They did not know who or what you were, and therefore treated you like any other intrusion. Being in communion with the forest, we felt its power being used and came to investigate, and realized what you truly were." "I don't understand," Aaron replied. "What am I?" "You are a WitchLord," Cael answered and then smiled. "Ahh, now we understand, please forgive us. That name has no meaning for you, does it? "You are a Tarran male, who is adept in the use of Eldritch; that is the name of the power you draw from your surroundings. Not only can you tap into it, but also use it to change mere words into magic. That ability, plus your lineage, denotes you as a WitchLord, do you now understand?" "Okay, yes I do," Aaron replied. "How does that affect me being or not being a trespasser?" "Why, because these lands are yours," Cael replied. "Come, let us return to or village. We will eat and answer questions there." Aaron and Reg followed Cael and the hunting party down a game trail through the forest till they reached the base of a large live oak tree. Looking up, Aaron was amazed to see a village within the trees. They rode up in a woven basket that could hold 6-8 people at a time. The village was built within the limbs of several large trees. Small thatched huts sprinkled on limbs accessed by vine walkways. Larger common areas as well as storage sheds rounded out the various structures. Aaron didn't see pens for livestock or fields for planting, so he mused that they must eat what the forest provided. They must be hunter, gatherers, or, possibly, just gatherers. Stopping at a medium size hut, Cael bid them enter. "Welcome to our humble home," Cael swept his hand. "Your presence here is a high honor. Please sit." Aaron and Reg entered the hut, followed by several sidhe including the female that challenged them in the forest. Cael entered last and closed over the door covering. They lit no fires; living in the trees, instead Cael removed a cloth cover from a pot giving off a soft glow. "Let us make the introductions," Cael began. He went around the room naming the sidhe present. The female warrior was called Moira and she had command of several hunting parties. Cael was the holy man of the village. The village elders were also present: Arthmael, Belenus, Cadeyrn, Tristen and Eoghan. "Thank you," Aaron replied. "Please excuse my manners. My name is Aaron, Aaron Whiterune and this is my companion, Reginald Ravensblade." A murmur rose amongst the seated guests at hearing Aaron's name. "Well met, young travelers," Cael bowed low. "I am Cael and this is our home, please sit and be comfortable." "You said I wasn't a trespasser because these lands were mine," Aaron stated as they sat down. "How are these lands mine?" "In the sense that all of this area was once ruled by your ancestors," Cael replied, spreading his arms wide. "Before they left, they charged the Sidhe with the protection of this forest." "Why did my ancestors leave?" Aaron asked. "There was an uprising," Cael explained. "Your ancestors did not land on the side of the victorious. Their punishment was removal from this land. They did not want the forest desecrated and charged us with its protection." "Until when?" Aaron asked. "The charter says until time is set free," Cael responded. "We take that to mean forever. Food is being prepared in a meeting hall. We will break bread there." Cael stood, and the other sidhe followed. Cael held open the door covering for Aaron and Reg and led them to the banquet. The hall was large, approximately 50 or so sidhe lounged about on mats as Aaron and Reg made their way to the spot that Cael pointed out. All stood until Aaron and Reg sat and then all sat as servers brought in food. Aaron and Reg were served various morsels on large green leaves. Little cakes, grain rolls, berries and various fruits, as well as dishes they couldn't identify, accompanied with sweet water, sated their appetites. After dinner they were entertained by dancing, song, and music performed by the sidhe. Reg was quite interested in the instruments they played. Some looked similar but had specific differences from the instruments Reg was familiar with. He was also impressed with both the singing and dancing. To show his appreciation he reached into his pack and removed Belle. Silence descended on the hall as Reg looked up to see astonished faces staring back at him. The word 'clarsach' reached his ears from various locations. "You play the clarsach?" Cael asked in astonishment. "If you mean the harp?" Reg replied, "then, yes. Her name is Belle and she has been with me for many years." Reg strummed the strings checking for tune and then launched into a long, powerful ballad. Aaron watched as more sidhe filled the hall to well past its capacity. Reg played for some time till finally his fingers began to ache causing him to stop. Looking up he saw the hall filled, and the sidhe looking on in rapture. "We come from a different land," Cael explained. "We were brought here through a gate and tasked with the protection of the forest. Prophecy says that when a stranger comes playing the clarsach, that our charter is almost up. That the stranger will open the gate and we can return to our home." "Well, I don't know anything about that," Reg looked nervous. "This is just a harp, though, granted, it is different from others that I have seen. I also don't know anything about opening a gate." "May we see it?" Cael asked holding out his hands. Reg handed over Belle, and Cael examined it carefully. Several of the village elders gathered around Cael and pointed at different places on the harp. Cael gently and reverently returned it to Reg. "It has sidhe runes on it," Cael explained. "It is crafted in the sidhe way and is certainly not of this time and place. May we ask where you found it?" "I did not find it," Reg replied. "My Lady Melody, Goddess of Music gave it to me several years ago." "It is a sidhe crafted clarsach," Cael proclaimed. "There is power in the strings and the sound board. I would have to study it longer to discern the nature of the magic." "The strings are metal, instead of guts," Cael pointed showing Reg. "See these two strings here; they are matched in pitch. We call them 'The Sisters' - the strings are in unison." "It is a clarsach," Cael announced to the assembly! "Our salvation is close at hand." Cael turned to Reg, "do not fret. You will know how to do the things you must, at the time you must do them. It is preordained." "Well, Reg, it looks like you have your own quest," Aaron smiled and then turned to Cael. "Cael, we are looking for a castle that is supposedly located in the heart of the forest. Do you know where it is located?" "We know of its location," Cael replied. "It is a bad place. Death resides there. We would caution you against going there." "I thank you for your caution," Aaron nodded. "I still have to go. Will you give us directions?" "We will have a hunting party escort you as far as we dare go," Cael explained. "Enjoy the evening and you can leave at first light." "How long will it take to get there?" Reg asked. "I would like to spend time with you, Cael, learning more about Belle. Aaron we may need it." "It is several hours from here," Cael replied. "We would be honored to help you unlock its secrets." "Reg, take the evening," Aaron replied. "We have time and you may be right, any help will be appreciated." Aaron asked Moira to show him around, so grabbing another glow-pot she escorted him around the village. Aaron learned that she was an accomplished warrior, adept with both sword and bow. She was intrigued that he was a Swordmaster and so after stopping in a clearing by a pool of clear water she asked to spar with him. "In the sidhe tradition, sparring is done only in loincloths," Moira explained removing her sword-belt and then her halter-top. Aaron tried not to stare for although Moira had the height and weight of a young girl, her breasts were most definitely not a young girls. Large firm breasts rode high on her ribcage, the size of oranges, her areole and nipples a darker shade of green. Aaron struggled to keep himself in check as he removed his clothes and armor. "I have a condition with my left hand," Aaron explained. "I need to wear this sleeve-glove, will that present a problem?" "If you have to wear it, you have to wear it," Moira replied, shrugging her shoulders. Watching her stretch and prepare herself presented more challenges to Aaron, who was having trouble focusing himself, as he tried to prepare for the upcoming trials. Aaron faced her holding Red Rose in his right and a dagger in his left; she was holding long knives in both hands. The knives were longer than Aaron's dagger but shorter than Red Rose. Aaron had the reach on her but figured she would be faster. He strategized on how best to defend her. "Are you ready?" Moira asked. After receiving a nod from Aaron she attacked. The speed at which she attacked surprised Aaron, for although he knew she would be quick, he didn't realize how fast she would be. He was momentarily put on the defensive, until he regained his composure and pressed the attack back, gaining momentum. They sparred for almost an hour, taking breaks along the way. They danced a sword dance as beautiful and graceful as any ballet, each testing the other's defense and offense. After a final flurry of attacks Moira stepped back. Several welts from flat sword strikes decorated her arms. Aaron was able to get inside her defenses on several occasions, but she was only able to do so once. Aaron stared at her in awe. Head down, hair in front of her face, bangs rising with each breath, she stared back at him through slitted eyes. Bent at the waist, hands on her thighs, her body glowed, and glistened as sweat dripped from her chest. Dropping her knives she leaped at Aaron, wrapping her limbs around him as he went down backwards. Rolling into a somersault, Aaron ended up on his back weapons still in his hands, Moira on top of him. Frantically pushing both of their loincloths out of the way she lifted up and grabbed his manhood and lined it up with the entrance to her sex. Smiling down at Aaron she sat back impaling herself and sighed. Aaron felt every muscle, every groove and bump, as she sat back sheathing herself. His manhood was in a wet, warm vise that was trying to rip it off at the root as she started a rhythmic up and down motion. She picked up the pace as she began to vibrate around him. Aaron could feel the head of his manhood bump the opening to her cervix on each down stroke. Aaron's body began to produce pheromones that Moira inhaled causing unusual hormonal changes in her body. An egg was produced in her ovary and travelled down a fallopian tube and attached itself to the walls of her womb. It would not have long to wait. Moira arched her back and began to keen as she reached her climax. Aaron felt the head of his manhood enter Moira's cervix when she orgasmed, triggering his own. Aaron's sperm didn't have far to travel before encountering an egg and battled to get inside. One sperm proved victorious and entered the egg. The process of reproduction had begun. Moira fell forward and lay on Aaron's chest, breathing heavily. Several moments later, she leaned back and licked Aaron from his chest to under his chin. "You stink, WitchLord," she chuckled crinkling her nose and slowly got up, emitting a little moan. She walked gingerly to where she dropped her knives, slowly bent over and picked them up. Walking over to her clothes, she placed the knives in their sheaths and dropped her loincloth on her other things. Smiling back at Aaron, she slowly walked down to the pool and dove in. Aaron leaned up on his elbows and shook his head watching that perfect dimpled butt sway back and forth as she sashayed to the water's edge and dove gracefully into the water. Standing on wobbly legs he picked up his weapons, walked over to his own clothes and placed the weapons in their scabbards. Removing his own loincloth and sleeve-glove, and taking the Swordmaster's cord from his hair, he followed Moira into the water. ------- Reg, Cael, and most of the village elders spent the entire evening trying to determine the nature of the harp's enchanting. It was several fruitless hours later that they finally gave up. They could not unlock the harp's secrets. There was no doubt that the harp was enchanted, but what and why eluded them. Reg finally called it a night, and after thanking the sidhe for their help, turned in. ------- Chapter 4 The seat of the Duchy of Malkur sat at the crossroads of The Old Kings' Highway, and was the trade hub for the Central Plains. The highway went west toward the Western Realm, and the Elven lands; east toward the kingdom of Aithen, and into the Thangdaemon Forest; south toward the Southern Reaches, and the Great Desert; and finally, north toward the Northern Reaches, and the lands of Gnomes, Goblins, and the other mountain dwellers. The walls of Malkur sat on a large embankment (or berm, if you will), ten feet high, with a twenty foot high stone wall encircling the city. The city had one main gate, leading into an easily defendable covered inner gateway with portcullis, and finally, into the city proper. The gates were opened and manned, day and night, and could easily be closed at a moment's command. The Duchy of Malkur was a city-state, owing no allegiance to any king, or realm. The first Duke of Malkur was a merchant master who founded the site and established the city, passing his title down through the generations. The current Duke of Malkur, was his Excellency, Lord Benjamin Ragnarack, 13th Duke of Malkur. The city was built on two levels. The lower level housed all the shops, mercantiles, inns, guildhalls, and military barracks, as well as housing the working class residents while the upper level housed the wealthier residents, temples, and the Duke's manor house. The city had no natural resources but held great wealth due to its one economic resource, trade, and its principle human resource, fighting men. Large trade caravans stopped at Malkur daily and commodities flowed back and forth. The Malkurian Merchants' Guild owned large warehouses that housed all manner of goods, destined for consumption throughout the five realms. The Duchy housed a large garrison of guardsman to protect the shipments coming in and out, as well as the city itself. Caravans needing more protection could hire guards from Malkur. The Duchy was renowned for its elite corps of guardsmen; Malkurian Guardsmen were honored and respected throughout the realm. Guardsmen were recruited early, at the age of twelve, and spent six years in training, before being called up to duty. Their commission lasted ten years, at which time they were eligible to retire. Some of the realms' finest warriors were Malkurian Guardsmen, some of whom eventually went on to become Swordmasters. That's not to say that Malkur was crime free. With the large amount of trade and commerce exchanging hands, there were ample occasions for theft. The Thieves' Guild also did a brisk business in Malkur, and the black market (the buying and selling of dangerous or rare component items for potions, poisons, and the like) was a thriving enterprise. Malkur was a great place to live, whether you were merchant, fighter, or thief. ------- Tanith appeared off the highway, a few miles from the Duchy, and began walking toward the city's gates. The lead wagon of a merchant caravan approached her, slowing as the driver addressed her. "'Tis a warm day for a walk, pretty lass," the skinner called down to her. "Would you like a ride, and rest your pretty feet?" "Depends on your definition of ride," Tanith replied with a laugh. "Oh, lassie, ye cut me to the quick," the skinner grabbed his chest. "I meant no disrespect. Please, hop up, and rest awhile. I'll drop ye off after we reach the other side of the city gates." "I thank you for your offer of hospitality," Tanith replied climbing up to the seat next to the driver. "It is a fine day for walking but I am a little sorer than I thought I'd be." "Where ye coming from, if ye don't mind me asking?" he queried. "Dragon Tooth Mountains," Tanith replied, stretching out her legs. "A long travel indeed, lass," the skinner replied. "My name is Driscoll, by the way." "Please to meet you, Driscoll," Tanith replied with a laugh. "I am called Tanith." "Pretty name for a pretty lass," Driscoll smiled, looking down at her legs. "Do the oxen have their own head, Master Driscoll?" Tanith asked cocking her head. "Or should you keep your eyes on the road ahead?" "My apologies again, lass," Driscoll chuckled. "The view was worth the risk, and yes, the oxen know their way." "Just so we understand ourselves, and you keep your eyes on the road." Tanith leaned back, closing her eyes, and crossing her arms. "What is your business in Malkur?" Driscoll asked. "That is, if ye don't mind me asking." "No, I don't mind," Tanith answered, eyes still closes. "I am meeting my betrothed there." "Oh, he is indeed a lucky man," Driscoll replied. "What does he do?" "I really don't know," Tanith smiled. "I've never actually met him. Truth be told, I don't know who he is." "But you're meeting him in Malkur?" Driscoll asked. "I don't understand?" "Yes, he will come to Malkur," Tanith replied. "I'll know who he is, when he arrives in the city." "Does he know ye are waiting for him?" Driscoll asked. "No, he doesn't even know we're betrothed," Tanith replied. "But that doesn't matter. He will know when we meet." "Well, I wish ye luck," Driscoll said, slowing his wagon. "Oh, luck has nothing to do with it, Master Driscoll," Tanith smiled, sitting up as they approached the city. "I've waited an age for this moment. It's fate." The merchant caravan slowed as it approached the city gates, allowing each wagon to enter the gateway, one at a time. Tanith noted arrow slits, as well as openings in the roof of the enclosure. A clear killing field extended the distance of the gateway, where a portcullis could be dropped in place, trapping the unlucky occupants. The lead wagon reached the other side of the gateway, and slowed to a stop, allowing Tanith to hop out. "Thank you for the ride, Master Driscoll," Tanith called up. "No, no, the pleasure was all mine," he laughed as he shook the reins starting his oxen forward. "I hope your betrothed is everything you want him to be." "Hail and well met, Tanith, the Great!" And he was gone. Staring after the vanished wagon, she just chuckled, "Ox skinner, indeed!" Shaking her head, she strolled over to the bazaar. Tanith looked around the street bazaar before asking, and receiving directions to one of the nicer inns. Walking through the bazaar her senses alerted her that she was being followed. She continued nonchalantly through the bazaar until she saw an alleyway and took it. Moving faster and further down the alley, she abruptly turned around and pulled her weapons. Four rough looking men, brandishing shortswords, spread out in an arc in front of her. "It would be in your best interest to turn around and leave," she announced to the men, and turned obliquely leading with her rapier. "Come now, pretty lady," the apparent leader replied. "We were just looking for a good time. Why don't you put those pretty little ornaments down and be nice to us?" "Last chance," she replied. "I play for keeps; none of you will live through this encounter." "So do we, pretty lady," he replied. "Get her!" The two outer would be rapists, moved in to flank her while their compatriots attacked. Tanith backed up and pulled Eldritch from the surroundings. "Stop!" she commanded, magic flowing from her, freezing her attackers in their path. Walking slowly to the flankers, she pierced their hearts with her sword, and they still stood, frozen in place. Moving to the third man, she calmly slit his throat. Finally, standing in front of the leader she chastised him. "I told you, I play for keeps," and she spit on him. He began screaming as he burst into flames. "Silence!" she commanded, as once again magic flowed from her, and the screaming was cut short. The fire burnt silver hot and consumed him completely, until all that was left was a pile of black ash. She pulled the power back, releasing the magic and the three bodies fell to the ground. Kicking the pile of ash, Tanith left the alley shaking her head, "They never listen." She arrived at the 'Dragon's Horn' Inn and smiled at the irony of staying there. Asking for, and getting a room on the first floor in the back, Tanith closed the door to her room. Scooping her hands in the air, she created a platinum sphere of energy, and gazed into it, looking for the WitchLord. ------- Aaron was up before first light, and made preparations to leave after breakfast. The plan was for a hunting party to escort them to the castle, or as close as possible. A scouting party left during the night, to scout the path they intended to use. The Sidhe might control the forest, but any creature using the highway was allowed safe passage, as long as they didn't stray from the road. The scouting party returned prior to the group's departure, and reported that orcs controlled the castle grounds. That was bad news. Orcs weren't the stupid, slovenly, pig-like creatures portrayed in other minstrel's tales. Orcs of Andor were well trained, intelligent, military-minded fighting machines. Well organized and disciplined, fighting in squad style tactics, orcs were a menace to any adventure party. Moira led a hunting party of 15 warriors, plus Reg and Aaron, through the forest, avoiding the highway. They made good time, and Moira got them close to the castle by noon. More importantly, they arrived unmolested. The castle stood on a motte, or mound, some ten to fifteen feet high. The castle was surrounded by a dry ditch, or moat, crossed by an arched bridge. The main gates were accessed from a protruding structure, flanked by towers. The curtain walls were thirty feet tall, and connected four massive corner towers, as well as the two gatehouse towers, and incorporated the keep and its two towers, in the rear. The four corner towers as well as the gatehouse towers were flat on top, with a stone parapet and battlements. The keep's towers had crystal domed tops. A single slab of quartz was cut, fashioned, and polished till it gleamed in the sunlight. In front of the gates, on either side, hanging from tall curved poles were cages, not unlike cages for song birds, except these cages were larger. The cage on the left of the gates was empty, but the cage on the right was not. All along the sides of the arched bridge were poles with bodies impaled on them. The main gates were opened, and the portcullis was up. The castle looked inviting, perhaps too inviting. It smelled like a trap. Bidding the Sidhe hunting party goodbye, Aaron and Reg climbed down into the ditch, and slowly made their way across and up to the castle wall. Crouching down, they crept along the wall to the edge of the gatehouse, on the same side as the occupied cage. With their backs flat to the wall, they inched their way to the cage, and peered inside. A Dark Elf, badly beaten and bloodied, lay in the fetal position on the cage floor. "Are you alive?" Aaron asked in dark elvish. "I still live, human," the Dark Elf replied in the common tongue. "Perhaps you can increase your honor by killing a trapped Shoc-Du (their name for themselves, meaning Shadow-Warrior), oh great warrior." "I originally thought about releasing you," Aaron replied. "But perhaps you're right, and I should just do away with you. And I'm not a human." Aaron reached into his cloak and removed an oilskin pouch. Removing several leaves from the pouch, he pushed them through the bars of the cage. "Chew these,"'Aaron explained. "They will refresh you." Aaron removed his lock-pick tools, and had the lock open in mere moments. Removing another vial, with a cork lid and a built in brush, he coated the hinges with the contents. After waiting for the lubricant to work, he slowly and gently opened the cage door, and stepped back. The Dark Elf took the leaves and chewed them, and then spit the remains out the side of the cage. After Aaron opened the door and stepped back, the Dark Elf made his way to the opening and leaped down, backing away from the two adventurers. "Before you leave, will you tell us all you know about the inside of the castle, and its inhabitants?" Aaron asked. "You have shown me more kindness than I would have shown you, had our positions been reversed, and that shames me," the Dark Elf replied. "You have healed me, as well as freed me. You have great honor. I owe you Dac-Ur, the life-debt. I am called Rac-Nur, and I am yours to command." "I don't need a bond-servant," Aaron replied. "What we need is information." Rac-Nur gave them all the information he had. He was part of a raiding/slaving party that came across the open castle and entered. The party was attacked by two dozen orcs, four squads worth. The dark elves killed fourteen orcs before being overcome. Rac-Nur was struck unconscious, and awoke, finding himself in the cage. The rest of his party ended up impaled on the poles in front of the castle. Rac-Nur had seen no reinforcements, so they concluded that the number of orcs totaled no more than ten. The orcs attacked the party from the barracks area to the right of the gateway. Giving Reg and Aaron a mock salute, Rac-Nur vanished down into the ditch. "So much for the life-debt," Reg snorted. Aaron's strategy, was to enter the castle after sunset, scout the area, and possibly eliminate the threat altogether. He figured there would probably be a guard posted, but dealing with one or two orcs at a time, was better than ten at once. So with the plan laid out, they backtracked down through the ditch, to a vantage point just within the forest, and waited. As soon as it was dark enough, they snuck back to the right-hand gate, and peeked around the corner. There was a fire burning next to a corral and set of doors. A lone orc patrolled in front of the barracks, Aaron noted another across the courtyard on the walkway of the wall, watching the patrolling guard. Aaron motioned Reg toward the barracks, and he made his way into the castle and to the left, hood up, Red Rose out, fading into the shadows. Reg entered the gateway and headed to the right, flat against the wall, inching his way around the wall toward the corrals. Looking across the courtyard Reg could see the orc up on the walkway, but couldn't see Aaron. He inched his way closer to the patrolling orc, and out of sight of the watcher. ------- Aaron moved along the wall, passing under the watcher up on the walkway. Finding a staircase, he crept up to the walkway, and inched closer to the watcher. Aaron knew that orcs had an exceptional sense of smell, so he made sure that he was downwind as he moved closer, molding his body to the castle wall. When Aaron was in reach, he pulled Black Rose and lashed out quickly, catching the orc across the neck, decapitating him. Aaron quickly reached out, and helped the body slide to the ground. Removing a red rose from his sack, he dropped it on the body, and made his way to the opposite staircase. ------- Reg watched the body fall, and lashed out with his longsword, spearing the patrolling orc through the chest, and then grabbed the body, allowing it to slump to the ground. Easing closer to the barracks, he just about jumped when Aaron touched him. Aaron smiled his trademark feral grin, and motioned to Reg, that he was going to swing around and approach the door from the other side. Reg nodded and watched Aaron disappear into the night again. Aaron got into position, and motioned Reg to stay out and watch Aaron's back. Aaron opened the barracks door and followed it in to the left scanning the room. Eight sleeping orcs met their patron god that night. Aaron went from bed to bed, dispatching each orc in turn, leaving a red rose on their dead bodies. Searching the room revealed no other living thing, and Aaron quietly made his way back out into the courtyard. Aaron was about to call out, when he felt a presence close to Reg's position. He faded back into the night, circling around, and sneaked up on Rac-Nur, who was closing on Reg's position. Putting Black Rose's tip at the base of the Dark Elf's neck, he spoke quietly. "What are your intentions Shoc-Du?" Aaron asked. "I told you, I am yours," Rac-Nur replied, standing still. "I left to replace my weapons. Shoc-Du always keep a weapons cache, just in case." "And you what, thought to rejoin us, by sneaking up on us?" Aaron asked, still pointing Black Rose at his throat. "In my profession, sneaking up on the wrong someone will get you killed." "I wasn't trying to sneak up on you," Rac-Nur replied. "I had hoped to get closer and protect your flanks. I did not expect you to even notice I was there." "I have been around Shoc-Du before," Aaron smiled, lowering his sword. "Just make sure you know whose side you are on." "I know whose side," Rac-Nur replied. "And I know who you are. You are known as Shoc-Ti by my clansmen, are you not." "Yes, that was the name I was given," Aaron replied and turned to Reg. "I enjoyed the hospitality of a dark elf clan for several months, until I was finally able to make my escape. They named me Shoc-Ti; it means 'Shadow Thief', or 'Shadow Stalker'." "You have great honor amongst the clans," Rac-Nur bowed. "My honor is therefore increased by being in your service." They searched the barracks, the blacksmith, guildhall, and surrounding buildings for any accesses or entryways to the dungeon. After several hours of fruitless searching, Aaron concluded that the access must be within the keep itself. Since it was late, and Aaron as well as Reg would rather search the keep during the day, they made camp, and set watches for the rest of the night. The next morning they searched the area around the barracks and corrals again, and still found nothing. There were several other buildings accessible from the courtyard, as well as the gatehouse and the two front towers. A complete search of all out-buildings and towers revealed nothing. The only thing left to search was the keep itself. The keep was located at the rear of the large courtyard, directly in line with the front gates, built outward from the curtain wall, with its own rear wall and corner towers in the rear. Five semi-circular steps led up to a set of closed, studded oak double doors. As they approached the steps, Aaron could feel the energy radiating from the double doors. The warding spell warned him that the doors were protected by either runes, or spells, or possibly both. Red Rose would take care of that. Pulling the sword from its scabbard, he swept it down across the front of, but not actually touching the double doors. Red Rose absorbed the power from the rune of protection and the doors swung open. A large crash caused them to turn around in time to see the portcullis drop in front of the gateway, and the main gates slam shut. Their escape route was gone. They were trapped! A low moan caused the hair to rise on the back of their necks, as undead warriors streamed out of both front towers. The warriors advanced straight toward the keep's steps, and the three companions turned to face them. Leaping down to the center of the bottom step, Aaron pulled both swords, and began drawing power from the surrounding area. Reg drew his own sword and moved down to Aaron's right. Rac-Nur pulled two wicked looking curved shortswords and leaped down to Aaron's left. The three warriors braced themselves for the coming wave of undead. "Reg, move up and guard those doors," Aaron commanded, sliding right on the step. "Rac-Nur and I will cover the front, make sure nothing sneaks up on our backs." Reg brought his sword up in acknowledgement, and climbed the steps and positioned himself in the door way. Aaron and Roc-Nur spaced themselves out equally on the bottom step, to be able to cover all sides. The lead undead warriors crashed into the adventurer's position. Quickly Aaron and Rac-Nur beat them back. Head blows were the most effective way of eliminating the undead warriors, and that was where the adventurers focused their attacks. Aaron and Rac-Nur were keeping the first wave at bay, and Aaron was happy to learn that Rac-Nur knew his way around a sword. Having the slightly higher ground was giving them an advantage, but the sheer number of attackers was quickly reducing that advantage. A second wall of fell warriors advanced on their position, and Aaron quickly surmised that they would be over-run by the next wave. "Reg, quickly go and see if those doors can be barred from the inside," he called up. "We won't survive the next onslaught." Reg went into the keep, and sure enough there were large oaken timbers set aside to bar the door. Calling down and informing Aaron, Reg began to move them into position for when the doors were shut. Aaron and Rac-Nur backed up the steps, keeping the undead back, and entered the keep, pushing the doors closed, and helped Reg put the timbers into place. A large thudding noise echoed through the lower level of the keep, signaling that the undead had reached the front doors and were pounding on them, trying to get in at the three adventurers. Now there truly was no going back! Turning around the adventurers stopped in their tracks, the great hall was lavish. A great domed ceiling, depicting an animated daytime sky, complete with moving clouds and flitting birds, literally took their breaths away. Enormous murals decorated the walls, showing different scenes, from hunting to battles. Suits of armor standing in arched brick alcoves ran the length of both side walls. Their armored hands crossed, resting on the pommels of large bastard swords in front of them, blades pointing down. There must have been twenty or so of those suits, in full black plate-mail armor, identical in detail to the armor worn by the fell warriors that had attacked Aaron and Reg, twice now. Identical down to the last detail; scarlet capes, rampant dragon heraldry on the shields, and dragon helms. It was enough to cause Reg an involuntary shudder. Torch sconces began lighting in sequence down each side wall, until the whole hall was illuminated in torch light. At the far end of the hall, grand spiral staircases climbed the wall on each side, meeting on a landing over looking the hall. Large steps led from the landing to the upper level. On the far wall, underneath the landing was a set of closed double doors. Halfway down each side wall, breaking up the rows of suits of armor, were large arched openings. The occasional thudding noise from the front doors could be heard as the three adventurers walked down the hall, signaling the undead's determination to get in. They stopped at the arched openings to their left and right. Pulling out a token he flipped it in the air calling, "Heads we go right, tails we go left." Catching the coin in the palm of his hand he announced, "Right it is." Turning toward the right archway they saw another hallway with double doors that opened outward into the hall, halfway down on both side walls, as well as double doors at the end. Reaching the double doors on the right, Aaron motioned for Reg to go in to the right, and Rac-Nur in to the center, Aaron would go left. Aaron grabbed the door handles and checking one last time, pulled the doors open, and went left. Reg went into the right, with Rac-Nur following into the center. The room had once been an armory, but there wasn't a single weapon left. Everything was gone, empty racks for swords, shields, and armor. Not even a broken arrow head left. Leaving the room and closing the doors they set up for the same entry on the opposite doors. The doors opened into a small hallway lined with several doors on each side wall. Each of those doors opened to small living quarters, presumably for knights, or men-at-arms. A small bed, dresser and desk, dominated each room. The three adventurers cleared those rooms as well. The last set of doors off this hallway were the doors at the end. Once again they took up positions, and Aaron pulled the doors open on the chapel. The chapel was stripped of religious icons and holy artifacts. The only things remaining were the pews and altar. The adventurers searched the chapel just to make sure. This hallway was empty. Ending up back out in the Great Hall, a distant thud still audible from the front doors, they pondered their next move. They decided to explore the other hallway. Servant quarters, kitchen, pantry and storage rooms dominated this wing. The kitchen was immaculate, even the hearth had been swept out. Kitchenware scrubbed and stored, the pantry empty, beds made, but no personal items left anywhere. There was a small door in the kitchen, that when opened led out into another hallway. Across the hall another set of double doors. The hallway ended at double doors to the left. Farther down the hall to the right, Aaron could see double doors on both sides, one of which looked familiar. Asking Reg to wait there he beckoned Rac-Nur to follow him back out into the great hall. Back out in the great hall they could either go up the stairs, or through the doors at the end. Since it didn't make sense that the dungeon entrance would be on the second level, Aaron opened the doors at the end of the hall. Another hallway running both left and right and a set of elaborately decorated doors in front of them. Looking down the hall he waved at Reg. The doors across the hallway from the kitchen door led into a grand dining hall and ballroom. Lavishly decorated like the great hall, but empty of any personal items. They were running out of doors. The decorated doors opened up unto what could only be the throne room, except there was no throne. There was the dais with steps at both sides, but no chairs. Banner poles with no banners, no royal seals or any indication of whose castle this was. Their only clue were the heralded suits of armor in the great hall. Leaving the throne room and standing in the middle of the hall, they were down to two options on the lower floor. Heading down the hall past the dining room and kitchen doors, they stopped at the large reinforced oaken door. Swords at the ready, Aaron opened the door and they entered a tower. Inside the tower they found a large, heavily reinforced oak door, barred at two places, and a spiral stair climbing the wall toward an upper level. The fact that the door was barred on the inside intrigued them. Reg asked Aaron to wait a moment and he and Rac-Nur headed back down the hallway toward the other end and a similar door. Opening it revealed another tower exactly like the one Aaron was in. So maybe two entrances to the dungeon. Heading back down to Aaron, they discussed their options. They decided to remove the timber barring the door in the other tower and enter the dungeon from this side. That way they would have an escape route if necessary. Reg brought up the fact that they hadn't searched the upper floor or towers, and there might be things of worth there. Aaron didn't care, he wanted to retrieve the scrying stone and return it to Mara. Reg went and removed the timbers barring the door in the opposite tower and opened the door to verify that there were stairs leading down. After verifying that there were stairs and they did indeed go down, Reg shut the door and returned to the other tower. Swords at the ready, Aaron opened the door and they descended down the stairs... ------- Chapter 5a The captain of the Thangdaemon Knights entered the Black Tower and genuflected, bowing his head and grabbing the hilt of his sword. "You summoned me, my lord?" the captain asked. "Yes, the princeling has entered the castle," Lord Devlin explained. "He must be seeking the entrance to the 'Hall of Kings'. I want you there to greet him." "I will leave at once," the captain replied. "Is there any message my lord would have me give the worm?" "No, but I want to know the extent of his power," Lord Devlin replied. "You may test him. Arise and be off." "Yes, my lord," the captain stood, banged his chest with a mailed fist, turned and left. "What are you up to, WitchLord?" Lord Devlin asked aloud. "And who is assisting you?" ------- They descended into darkness until Aaron created a blue ball of energy which lit their way with an eery bluish light. At the bottom of the stairs was a passageway to the right and directly across was a large reinforced oaken door. Torch sconces hung on either side of the door, and flickered to life when their feet touched the dungeon floor. Torch sconces flickered to life down the hallway to the right as well. Swords still at the ready Aaron opened the door and went in and to the left, Reg went right and Rac-Nur filled the doorway. They had entered the torture room. Torch sconces cast a strange light on the instruments of torture. Ten man size cages, broken up in two groups, dominated the wall to their left. In between were several iron maidens as well as a horrific looking tall stool shaped device with a metal pyramid on top. Above it was a rope attached to a block and tackle suspended from the ceiling. The floor below was stained a dark brown, as was the floor around the iron maidens. Elsewhere in the room were several racks, ropes suspended from the ceilings, as well as saltire crosses. (A saltire cross was an 'X' shape device with leather buckled straps at the top and bottom of each leg, as well as a buckled strap across the middle.) Coal braziers with tongs, branding irons, pokers and other metal instruments were strategically located within reach of the saltire crosses. An instrument table and shelves stood nearby with whips, chains, spikes and all manner of different objects used in torture. On the wall opposite of their entry was a door, which opened up to another passageway to the right. Across the hall were stairs leading back up. A thorough search of the torture room revealed no hidden trips or secret passages. Retracing their steps back the way they came, they left the torture room and headed down the passageway to a locked door on the left. This door was also made of reinforced oak, but had the addition of a small peep window. Aaron opened it and leaped back in surprise. Four ghouls were snacking on someone's remains. The fact that there was a dead body not completely decayed, surprised Aaron. The ghouls looked up, blood dripping from their mouths, and then attacked. Rac-Nur stepped in front of Aaron, shortswords flashing in the torch light. The first ghoul lost its head to Rac-Nur even as Reg attacked and killed the second. Aaron stepped clear of Rac-Nur, both swords flashed, and two ghoul heads rolled back into the room. The room was lit by twin torch sconces on the main door wall. There were also four cell doors, two on each side wall. Their search of the cells revealed nothing. They were concerned about where the ghouls came from, as well as the dead body, but didn't see any evidence of their entryway. Stepping back out and closing the door, they continued down the hall which turned sharply to the left. Locked cell doors were evenly spaced out on the right wall, Aaron counted five of them. Following the hallway to another sharp left they crossed by another closed door on the left, of similar design as the door on the other side. The hallway ended at a door to the left and stairs leading up to the right. Reg quickly jogged up the steps to verify that it was indeed the steps from the opposite tower. The door to the left led back into the torture room. Turning around they backtracked to the locked door on this passageway. Opening it revealed another room with prisoner cells. The layout was different though, with one door on each side wall and two doors on the back wall. Opening each of the cell doors revealed nothing. They were down to five known doors left. Heading back down the hall toward the five remaining doors, they searched each in turn, finding nothing. They were exactly what they were, prisoner holding cells. "Aaron, something isn't right," Reg remarked. "How did those ghouls get into that room?" "Reg, I've been asking myself the same question," Aaron responded. "The cell layout was also different from the other side too, why?" "Let's go back and find out," Reg replied. They headed over to the room that held the ghouls and went back inside. The main door was locked from the outside and had no handle on the inside. The ghouls had been trapped in this room, so they must have come from somewhere within the room or one of the holding cells. Aaron painstakingly searched the main room and holding cells, until he found the secret access. There were light scratch marks on the wall by the righthand sconce. The back wall opened to a small hallway when the torch sconce on the right of the main door was turned to the right. "This body was a Shoc-Du," Rac-Nur remarked. "We will need to proceed with caution." "Is he from your hunting party?" Reg asked. "No, he is from the same clan, but not my hunting party," Rac-Nur replied. "I cannot tell who he was, since his face has been torn off, but he was not of my hunting lodge." Stepping into the unlit narrow hallway, Aaron once again created a ball of bluish light that bobbed alongside casting its eery glow all around. Stone steps led down approximately ten feet ending at a perpendicular hallway running in both directions. The hallway to the left ran under where the torture room of the dungeon would be and ended at an intersection of another hallway. The hallway to the right ran about ten feet before ending at an intersecting hallway going both left and right. "Gods, the smell!" Reg exclaimed. "This place smells like death and decay." "That's what we're likely to find down here," Aaron replied, looking down both sections of the hallway. "This must be the catacombs under the keep." "Well, Aaron, left or right?" Reg asked. "Might as well go left first," Aaron replied, moving off in that direction. "It goes away from the keep and may be the entrance. The other direction goes back under the keep. If we run into trouble, which I suspect we will, knowing the layout of our escape route will be good." Coming to the intersection they found dead bodies near the opening to the left - two ghouls and a dark elf. "It looks like a dark elf hunting party came this way," Aaron said, inspecting the tracks in the dirt floor. "And headed off toward the keep. Sometime later two dark elves came back this way in a hurry, being chased, and ran into several ghouls here. The survivor backtracked up the stairs, being chased by four ghouls and was ultimately cornered and killed in that cell room." "So the exit is probably down the hallway to the left," Reg replied. "Let's take the hall to the right and see where it goes first." The right-hand hallway dead-ended at a metal ladder anchored to the wall. They climbed about fifteen feet and came to a landing with another ladder, anchored to the wall at the far end. They continued up to another landing, and another ladder anchored to the wall at the far end. Up again to another landing, but this time there wasn't another ladder. Aaron searched for a lever or some other trip mechanism, and after finding it, opened the door into a lavish bedroom. By the scope of its size and the decor, they reasoned that it was the Master's bed chambers. They had found a secret escape route. Not wanting to waste the time to search this room and all of the upstairs, they headed back down the ladders. Crossing the intersection and stepping over the bodies, they continued down the hallway to where it ended roughly fifty feet later at a wall with another ladder anchored in it. Looking up into the tunnel, Reg could see a closed access lid. Climbing up the ladder, Aaron slowly lifted the hinged lid enough to see all around. The entrance to the catacombs under the dungeon was in a large hollowed out tree base in the forest. Closing the lid, Aaron climbed back down and shared the discovery with his companions. Satisfied, that they had the layout of their escape route, they headed back up the hallway, turned right, passed the stairs leading up to the dungeon, and came to the cross hallway. "Left or right, Reg?" Aaron asked. "Your call this time." At his gesture toward the left, they headed down the hall and found more bodies. Four dark elves and a dozen or so ghouls were strewn around the floor. At the end of the hallway was a set of closed oaken doors. Using their tried and true method of entry, Aaron opened the doors and went left, Reg went right, and Rac-Nur filled the doorway. The doors opened to a large crypt. They suspected that they were under the chapel, some two stories above. The two side walls were full of vaults, each body wrapped in linens and slid into its own cubbyhole. At the far end of the room sitting in a stone chair, surrounded by ghouls, was a Lich! "Welcome to my humble abode," the Lich said, sweeping its arms. Its voice was dry as leaves before winter, and it was dressed in a flowing robe, decayed past the point of normal wear. The body was cadaverous and clearly desiccated, almost to the point of being a complete skeleton. The Lich was holding an ornate staff with a large crystal gem on top, and on his righthand skeletal index finger was a large gaudy ruby ring, "Where are my manners?" the Lich laughed. "Proper introductions are in order. I am Cullen, once High Wizard of Aithen, and who, pray tell, are you?" "We are nobody of importance," Aaron replied, fingers creeping towards his sword hilts. "Just adventurers, seeking treasure." "Nobody of importance, please," the Lich replied. "You made it this far, so you must be more than just adventurers. Do my eyes deceive me? Have we met?" "No, I think I would remember you," Aaron replied, starting to draw power from the area. "Ah-ha, now I know you, and that's my power!" the Lich screamed, striking his staff to the ground. "Kill them!" Aaron felt the stream dry up, the access to Eldritch was denied him! Ghouls leaped to the attack as the adventurers fought them off. Reg and Rac-Nur were battling the ghouls, so Aaron concentrated on the Lich. Pulling his swords, both bathed in blue light, he advanced. "I thought you looked familiar, and now I know why," the Lich exclaimed, the gem on his staff began to glow with a bluish hue. "You are his heir, the reason I'm reduced to this. My knights, come forth!" Two Death Knights suddenly appeared on either side of the Lich and attacked. The Death Knights were armored in full plate-mail, each brandishing a bastard sword and shield. That was the extent, though, of their similarities to the Thangdaemon Knights that Aaron had previously encountered. The Death Knights had no heraldry, their cloaks were decayed and tattered, and their mail had seen better days. They looked like warrior versions of the Lich, and that is exactly what they were. They flanked Aaron and attacked. Aaron blocked the sword attack from the knight on his right with Black Rose. Spinning to the right and ducking to avoid the shield, he cut the legs out from under the first knight with Red Rose. The knight began to topple forward when Aaron sprang up and took off his head with a backhand downward cut of Black Rose. Spinning back to the left he faced the second knight, who was swinging his sword down in attack. Cleaving his sword in two with Red Rose, he cut off his head with a backhand slash of Black Rose. Turning to face the Lich, he took a side stance with Red Rose pointing straight out, and Black Rose in an over head position, pointing at the Lich. ------- Reg and Rac-Nur had their hands full with the ghouls. Using the same technique that Reg and Aaron used on the road to Dria, they stood back to back and fought in a slow revolving wheel. Headless bodies began stacking up all around as they fought off the ghouls. ------- "What? Now you want to fight me?" the Lich asked. "I don't use brawn." The Lich lashed out with magic from his staff. Aaron brought Black Rose into a defensive position as if he was deflecting a sword slash. Black Rose absorbed the magic from the Lich and passed it on to Aaron as raw power. Surprised, Aaron quickly used the power to attack the Lich. Pushing it out amplified through Red Rose, magic engulfed the Lich in a swirling maelstrom. Unlike the last time Aaron attacked with Eldritch, this time there was control, finesse in his attack, and more importantly, he didn't pass out. The Lich began to laugh and waved his staff, dissipating the maelstrom. "Nice try, but not powerful enough." The Lich attacked with Eldritch again. Aaron blocked the attack with Black Rose again. This time pushing the power out in a word of command, "Hold!" The Lich swung his staff as if to block the attack, "So, you are a WitchLord, as well. I should feel honored, and yet I don't. Do you want to know why, milord? I look at myself and I remember what I was, and what I am now reduced to. All because of your ancestor." The Lich swirled his staff in the air, building his power for another attack. Reg and Rac-Nur finished with the last of the ghouls and joined Aaron spreading out on either side. "Aaron, the only way to finish a Lich, is to destroy its phylactery," Reg explained. "It's an amulet of some sort that contains his essence." "There, the ring on its right hand," Reg added, pointing. "Destroy the ring; destroy the Lich." "Red Rose, can you 'Straight and True' an object?" Aaron asked. "Yes, My Lord," Red Rose answered. "A thing of power can be targeted." "Red Rose, 'Straight and True' the Lich's ring," Aaron commanded. "AS YOU COMMAND, MY LORD," the sword answered and leaped out of Aaron's grasp straight at the Lich. Before the Lich had time to react, Red Rose pierced the stone of the ring, releasing the essence of the Lich. The skeleton that was once the Lich collapsed, and fell to the floor scattering. "Red Rose, to me," Aaron commanded, holding out his left hand. The sword returned. "Well, that was interesting," Aaron exclaimed, looking around at ghoul bodies strewn where they were killed and the skeletal remains and staff of the Lich, scattered on the ground. Nothing else of value could be seen in the room. "Well, this room is clear," Reg laughed. "Black Rose, how was the Lich able to prevent me from drawing Eldritch?" Aaron asked. "It was a small place and he must have set wards, My Lord," Black Rose replied. "If you had been outside or in a larger area, he would not have been able to." Aaron learned a powerful lesson in his fight with the Lich. From that point on he planned to draw power beforehand, so as not to be caught without it again. "My Lord, you may hold power for as long as you like," Black Rose explained. "You don't have to use it right away. The trade off is that an adept will sense you by the power you hold." Aaron decided that while they were in the catacombs he would store as much as he could, and he pulled power in. The destruction of the Lich had released its power, and its wards, allowing him access to Eldritich. Leaving the crypt, they traveled down the hallway, past the intersection and into the right-hand hallway which turned sharply to the right and ended at a set of double doors. Investigation of the doors would have to wait, for standing in front of the doors was a Thangdaemon Knight! "Hail and well met, worm," the knight laughed. "That was a nice display of magic, dealing with that Lich. You will find, however, that I will be a more difficult obstacle to overcome." Aaron's swords howled in rage as blue fire flickered up and down their blades. Their runes glowed and pulsed with power as he continued to pull power and fed it to them. Both Reg and Rac-Nur, with their swords at the ready, spread out on either side of Aaron. Aaron leaped forward and to his left, attacking with Black Rose toward the sword side of the knight. The knight parried Black Rose, and Aaron pivoted right, with the parry, and quickly brought Red Rose down on the knight's sword arm, severing it at the elbow. The forearm and sword fell to the ground as Aaron jumped back, ducking away from the swing of the shield. The knight screamed in pain, threw his shield at Aaron and quickly picked up his sword with his left hand. Aaron pivoted out of the way of the shield, and attacked with Black Rose again. The knight parried with his sword, and Aaron hit him in the side with Red Rose, and then jumped back. Pulling more power from his surroundings and pumping it into the swords, Aaron took one step back. As the knight rushed forward toward Aaron, Rac-Nur leaped up and forward, somersaulting over the knight and raked his chest with both swords. The dark elf ended up behind the knight and attacked again. The knight screaming in rage and pain, moved forward, away from Rac-Nur's attack. Aaron noted with some curiosity that Rac-Nur had cleanly scored two hits that apparently did damage. Apparently enchanted Shoc-Du weapons affected the knights. Reg took that moment to attack the knight on his right side, momentarily causing the knight to rotate right to defend, which opened him up so that Aaron could hit him with both swords, cleaving his remaining sword arm with Red Rose while taking his head with Black Rose. The knight's head rolled to the floor and ended upright and turned toward Aaron. "Himith!" the knight screamed at Aaron, as his body and severed head burst into black flames. Red Rose moved of its own volition into a defense position, and then cleaved the rune of death, saving Aaron's life. The power from the killing rune knocked Aaron backward to the ground, dazed. ------- Lord Devlin watched the battle in the flames of the fireplace in his sitting room. When his Captain was beheaded he screamed in anger and kicked his living ottoman in the ribs, lifting her off the floor and into the wall, breaking her ribs and puncturing her lung and heart, killing her instantly. His outburst under control, Lord Devlin watched the finish of the battle. "Well, WitchLord, it seems you do have power," Lord Devlin spoke to the flames. "Deflecting the killing rune was impressive, most impressive. Perhaps you will be a worthy adversary after all." Picking up the dead body by the hair he dragged it to the door of his tower, opened it and hurled the body into the dirt, where skulking wolves descended upon it, fighting. Closing the door, Lord Devlin pondered the loss of his Captain, and more importantly another knight. There was still a fortnight to wait before the next full moon, and the ability to replenish his depleted ranks. "I'll leave you be, for now, WitchLord," Lord Devlin spoke to the flames, as if Aaron could hear him. "But soon we will cross paths." ------- "Milady? Milady?" the Godling called out. "Yes?" Lady Rannath, Goddess of Light responded. "Milady, the WitchLord is in the castle, and he has killed a Thangdaemon Knight," the Godling reported. "Also, he is at the doors to the 'Hall of Kings'." "Hmm, thank you," Lady Rannath replied. ------- After picking himself up off the floor and sheathing his swords, Aaron looked around at what was left of the knight. A black stain in the dirt floor was all that remained. "Red Rose, I thought you absorbed all the power when you cleave a rune?" Aaron asked, shaking the cobwebs out of his brain. "Normally, Yes, My Lord," Red Rose responded. "That word has a lot of power, though. There was some spillage when I cleaved it so close to you." "Black Rose, did you absorb the magic from the Lich and then pass it to me?" Aaron asked. "Are you also a vorpal blade?" "Yes, My Lord, I have that ability," Black Rose replied. "And yes, My Lord, I am a head hunter." The entire time Aaron was communing with his weapons, Rac-Nur was guarding the hallway behind them. Reg was also busy, inspecting the double doors. The doors were massive, at least ten feet tall and arched, made of some yellow or blonde wood, banded and riveted in gold. Intricate runes were inscribed on both doors with a large rune inscribed through both doors where they met. Finally, there were two large solid gold pull handles and a keyhole on the left hand door. [authors note: I am interjecting here to describe the rune inscribed through the doors, since this rune is important in my Mythos. It is a cursive capital L, laid over on its top tail, so, rotated counter-clockwise 90 degrees, with a straight line connecting both tails passing through the middle of the L.] Aaron walked up to where Reg was looking and could feel the power radiating from the door. "Can you feel it, Aaron?" Reg asked, awe in his voice. "The doors radiate power." "You can feel it too?" Aaron asked, shocked that Reg could feel the Eldritch. "Yes, I've been able to feel it ever since you healed me," Reg replied. "I feel it every time you use it." "Reg, can you sense it flowing around you?" Aaron asked. "It's in the rocks, in the ground, in everything. Reach out with your senses, close your eyes and feel it all around." Reg did as Aaron described, and for a moment he felt Eldritch flowing all around him. And then, it was gone. "Aaron, I felt it for a moment, and then it was gone," Reg explained. "Well, we'll work on it some more," Aaron replied. "Practice makes perfect. Now let's get past these doors." Aaron stepped up to where the doors met and pulled Red Rose. "My Lord, I cannot cleave that rune," Red Rose declared. "It is the rune of our making. To cleave it would un-make us." "Un-make who, you? Or all of us?" Aaron asked, but not actually certain he wanted to know the answer. "It is the rune of making, My Lord," Red Rose replied, emphasizing each word. "Well, there goes the easy way," Aaron remarked. "Red Rose cannot remove that rune, because it would un-make him, us, probably everything." "Everything? Like in everything?" Reg asked, spreading his arms out wide. "Everything?" "Apparently," Aaron responded, walking back up to the doors. Inspecting the doors closely, Aaron noticed that what he originally took for a keyhole was not in fact a hole at all. It was a depression in the door. Something fit in there. Aaron reached into his cloak and removed a pair of glasses with differing magnification lenses. Putting the glasses on, and swinging several different lenses into and out of place, he finally settled on the magnification he wanted, and leaned forward inspecting the depression. After studying the depression for several minutes, he finally leaned back and removed his glasses. "Well, isn't that interesting," Aaron said to nobody in particular. "What?" Reg asked, watching Aaron the whole time. "It is a keyhole, of sorts," Aaron replied, standing up and putting his glasses away. "It's just not a normal key." Aaron made a fist with his left hand and pressed the gem of his signet ring into the depression. The rune that bisected the doors flashed in brilliant blue light and then faded out, the doors gently swung open. ------- Chapter 5b The room was a hall, not unlike the throne room in Aithen. It was separated into three segments by large intricately carved ivory columns, with alcoves on both sides of the hall and a large dais at the far end. Suits of armor bearing the bounding hart heraldry stood between the alcoves. The outer aisles held chests overflowing with gold, platinum, and other precious metals, intermixed with chests overflowing with precious gems, jewelry and other trinkets. Armor, swords, and other instruments of war filled several of the alcoves. Aaron thought they must be enchanted in some fashion, since he could feel them pulsing with power. Most of the alcoves however, contained crypts for the dead. The crypt alcoves had white wrought metal scalloped gates, the alcoves holding treasure did not. At the far end, placed on the dais, apparently arranged in some specific pattern, were several black stone blocks, with sword hilts sticking out of them. The stones were arranged in clusters, each cluster on its own separate raised platform. In the center closest to the back wall on the highest platform rested a single stone with a hand-and-a-half sword hilt sticking out. Just in front of that, on a shorter extension of the same platform were two stones diagonally in line with the center stone without hilts. A few feet in front of that was another platform lower than the first, but higher than the extension. Two stones sat on that platform, the stone to the left slightly higher. Diagonally to the left and right of that platform were two more platforms, slightly lower, containing three stones of equal height. Eleven stones in all, nine of which contained swords. All the hilts were single handed except the one protruding from the stone on the highest platform. "Black Rose, what is this place?" Aaron asked, placing his hand on the sword's pommel. "This is the Hall of Kings, My Lord," the sword replied. "It is both treasure hall, and mausoleum, for the Kings of Tarra." "What is it doing in the catacombs under this castle?" Aaron asked. "This is not a Tarran castle." "No, My Lord, this is most definitely not a Tarran castle, but it is a place of safety," Red Rose interjected, forcibly. "The hall has no home while the Rose Throne is empty. It moves to places of secrecy and security." "Why is the throne empty?" Aaron asked. "I thought my mother was Queen before she died. Surely there has been a succession by now." "The Rose Throne has been empty for nearly an age, My Lord," Red Rose replied. "It was lost before the banishment. A replica is used now." "Before the banishment?" Aaron asked incredulously. "And it has never been found? Do you know where it is?" "It has never been found," Red Rose replied. "And we do not know where it is, or exactly when it disappeared." "Hmm, are those actual swords in those stones?" Aaron asked, eyeing the stones with sword hilts sticking out. "Yes, My Lord," Black Rose replied. "They are Runeswords and are resting in their runestones. When a Runesword has no wielder, it must return to its stone. Or the sword's wielder may put the sword back, relinquishing the bond of sword and wielder." "So when a sword is in its stone, it cannot come out by itself?" Aaron asked. "No, My Lord," Black Rose answered, with a little trepidation. "The sword is in stasis. Unable to interact within the realm, it has no power. It is without thought or action." "So, those two empty stones are yours?" he asked both swords. "Yes, My Lord, they are," Red Rose answered, with a slight trepidation in its voice. "Why do you ask, My Lord?" "So, my birth mother came here, and pulled Black Rose from its stone?" Aaron asked. "Not exactly, My Lord," Black Rose clarified. "The hall was in Tarra at the time. She brought you to the hall as an infant, placed your hand on my pommel and pulled me forth, bonding us together. It was a partial bond, since we did not exchange oaths. When you called upon me thrice, that completed the bond." "So, Red Rose and I did not actually bond until I commanded it with a high sword command?" Aaron asked, beginning to understand. "Exactly, My Lord," Red Rose replied. "I was bonded to your sister, but not to you until then." "Wait, you said that when a sword has no wielder, it must return to its stone, but Red Rose, you did not, why?" Aaron asked. "A good question, My Lord," Red Rose acknowledged. "Black Rose and I are tied to the Rose Throne, and therefore only heirs to the throne can wield us. Since you were there when your sister passed, I was able to stay with you when you accepted me." While the mental conversation progressed, Reg was busy looking for the black box containing the scrying stone, while Rac-Nur was on alert, protecting Aaron while he stared off into space. With the discussion at an end, they approached the dais and Aaron notice two familiar statues standing on either side of the steps, carved from ivory. The hulking shapes were covered in scales, with taloned hands, pointed ears flat against their skulls, bald with the exception of a single braided stalk of hair in the center of the back of their heads. Aaron didn't know what race the beings depicted were, but they appeared to be either reptilian, or possibly demonic. "Black Rose, I have seen those figures before, only they were alive," Aaron explained. "Who, or what, are they?" "That is a question that I am forbidden to answer, My Lord," Black Rose replied. Further discussion concerning the statues was placed on hold, for at that moment a deep, rasping voice echoed throughout the hall, causing the adventurers to shiver, as if someone had walked across their graves. "BEHOLD, MY SALVATION IS AT HAND." A shape began to materialize above the highest runestone. A sword appeared above the dais, hilt up. "I AM DEATHBRINGER, THE HAND OF DEATH," echoed throughout the hall. "HAIL, AND WELL MET, WITCHLORD." Aaron felt a slight tremor at his hips as he looked on in awe at the apparition. It was a bastard sword, with downward curved quillions, hand-and-a-half grip, and a wheel, (or ball) pommel. A single rune was carved into the blade, the same rune that was carved in the doors of the hall. The hilt was unadorned, no gem shone in the wheel pommel. It was, in all appearances, a simple bastard sword, of no great value. The sword was not actually there. They could see right through it, so it was some kind of astral projection. A glow of silvery light shone all around it. "COME UP, WITCHLORD, GRASP MY HANDLE AND PULL ME FREE, IT IS YOUR BIRTHRIGHT," the sword commanded. Shifting its voice so as not to reverberate, it continued, "Free me WitchLord, and we will avenge your ancestors," Deathbringer proclaimed. "Free me, and together we will restore the Empire of the Rose." "It is a tempting offer, Deathbringer," Aaron replied stepping up to the dais. "It is no offer, WitchLord," Deathbringer replied. "It is your right, your heritage." "Speaking of heritage, what happens to my swords if I pull you from the stone?" Aaron asked. "You cannot wield me with and any other, WitchLord," Deathbringer explained. "You would have to return them to their stones." Again, Aaron felt a tremor from his hips. Aaron took another step toward the runestone. "Aaron, do not! Wait!" Lady Rannath called out, entering the hall from the open doorway and approaching Aaron. With her was Lord Azrael, God of Shadows. "Well, if it is not the Betrayer, herself," Deathbringer proclaimed. "Tread carefully, Witch, I am not without power within these walls!" "Lady Rannath, what are you doing here?" Aaron turned and addressed her. "Yes, why have you returned to the scene of your betrayal?" Deathbringer asked. "To try and stop you from making a mistake," Lady Rannath answered. Rac-Nur bowed to Lord Azrael and positioned himself between Aaron and the two Gods. Meanwhile, Reg was looking intently at the highest stone on the second highest dais, and paying the assembled group little attention. "Lady Rannath, what mistake?" Aaron asked. "And why does Deathbringer, as well as my swords refer to you, and the other Gods for that matter, as betrayers?" "What, he does not know?" Deathbringer asked astonished. "You have not told him?" "Told me what?" Aaron replied. "Will someone tell me what is going on?" "Do not listen to it, Aaron," Lady Rannath begged. "It will distort the truth, to its own end." "I will not lie. The truth is much more damning," Deathbringer responded with a chuckle. A chuckle that caused an involuntary shudder from all those present. "You will manipulate the information for your own gain," Lady Rannath replied. "No, Witch, now you have me confused with a Thangdaemon," Deathbringer replied. "I cannot lie to my wielder." "True, but I am not your wielder, either," Aaron countered. "You are wise, WitchLord," Deathbringer conceded. "Perhaps, if you were to place your hand on my pommel, I could show you the time in question." "Is that not the first step in bonding, Deathbringer?" Aaron asked, raising an eyebrow. "Yes, wise indeed," Deathbringer replied. "How can we resolve this? Fine. Black Rose, you are released from the law and may answer your wielder completely." "Yes, Lord," Black Rose replied, answering Deathbringer. "My Lord, she betrayed her betrothed, your ancestor, to further her own ambitions," Black Rose spat the words out as if they had left a bad taste in its mouth. "That is not how it was," Lady Rannath cried. "Aaron, you have to understand what the circumstances were." "Did you, or did you not, counsel your betrothed to place his sword in its stone?" Deathbringer accused. "Thereby offering him up to his enemies." "What sword?" Aaron asked. "I do not understand any of this." "Me! WitchLord! Me!" Deathbringer replied. "She was betrothed to Sinthar Whiterune, your forefather, the King of Tarra, and all of Andor. There was a war and she sided with his enemies." "Aaron, wait! Let me explain," Lady Rannath moved toward Aaron and then stopped short when Rac-Nur brought his weapons up. "There were three great races in the early years of Andor. The Tarrans ruled this land and were at war with their western neighbors the Elfen. The members of my race, Thangdaemon, were more interested in the acquisition of power, and knowledge, than land, or things. Some sided with the Tarrans and some sided with the Elfen. As a princess of my people, in an attempt to strengthen relations, I was betrothed to the young King of the Tarrans." "The war was tearing the land in two, and it was feared it would ultimately tear the very fabric of time," Rannath continued. "Deathbringer was counseling the King on how best to accomplish that." "Lies! That would never have happened," Deathbringer interjected. "Timekeeper would not have allowed it. You promoted the worst case scenario to scare others and garner power onto yourselves, just like all progressives." "'Tis true, My Lord," Black Rose said. "Timekeeper would have prevented that." "Fine, we did not know that at the time," Rannath deferred. "Anyway, Sinthar, counseled by Deathbringer, had even challenged our Gods. My father and his council were afraid that the 'Three that are One' would smite us all and start over." "You forget, Witch, that I would have prevented that," Deathbringer replied. "It was why I was created. The Hand of Death is the ultimate balance." "Wait, who are the 'Three that are One'?" Aaron asked. "They are the Gods that created this world and the three races," Deathbringer replied. "They are; Melvina, Driscoll, and Randolf. They are siblings and act in unison." "Wait, I met a woman named Melvina," Aaron replied. "She said she was the handmaiden, or her name meant handmaiden. At least I think I did, it may have been a dream. She also said she had brothers." "That would be her then," Deathbringer replied. "I did not counsel my wielder to challenge the Gods. The brothers came to him. They wanted power over their sister, who they thought had grown to powerful." "My father thought that the only way to stop the war, was to stop the Tarrans, to stop Sinthar," Rannath tried to explain. "And the only way to do that was to stop Deathbringer, by placing it in its stone." "So you betrayed your betrothed," Deathbringer stated, "and in the process, bargained for power and accession to a higher plane. It is what I have always maintained." "WitchLord, release me from my stone, and smite her!" Deathbringer screamed. "It is your destiny! We will avenge the betrayal of all these so-called Gods. And then, we will have a reckoning with the 'Three that are One'. They played a dangerous game and should be called to account." "Aaron, do not," Rannath pleaded. "Not for me, but for you. Deathbringer will kill you." "That is not true, Rannath." Aaron accused. "No Runesword can cause its wielder harm, can it, Black Rose? That is a sword law." "You are correct, My Lord," Black Rose replied. "Except the law does not apply to Lord Deathbringer." "How is that?" Aaron asked. "You said all Runeswords were bound by the law." "First there was Lord Deathbringer, and then there was the law," Black Rose spoke as if quoting from some ancient tome. "Lord Deathbringer is bound only to uphold the first law." "And that is?" Aaron asked. "Death comes for us all, in the end," Deathbringer and Black Rose spoke in unison, again sounding as if quoting from some ancient tome. "Even to mighty WitchLords that wield mighty swords," Deathbringer replied, solemnly. "WitchLord, pull me from the stone and everything will be revealed to you," Deathbringer explained. "You will know all, and yes, at some point I will come for you. But in the end, do we not all pass on?" Aaron took another step toward Deathbringer's runestone, when he was pulled up short by the voice of his dead mother. "Do not be a pawn to others' ambitions, my son," the wraith of Lady Tara, Duchess of Realto said. "Make your own way in this, and in all things." "So, you finally weigh in on the discussion, Azrael," Deathbringer accused. "You play a dangerous game, dabbling within my realm. There will be an accounting, rest assured. WitchLord, that is not your mother; it is only a memory." "Maybe so, but that is what she would say," Aaron sighed. "Deathbringer, I am a simple thief, and my own man. I am not some great avenger. You will need to find another to help you fight your fights. I have become attached to my swords, and want to keep it that way." "I cannot find fault in that, WitchLord," Deathbringer conceded. "Just remember, fate may seek you out whether you want her to or not. Just because you wish to withdraw, does not mean others may see it that way." Aaron would come to learn just how prophetic Deathbringer's warning was. "All is not lost anyway," Deathbringer continued, "there is still another, is there not, Witch?" "What do you mean, another?" Aaron asked. "Why, the Thangdaemon Witch carries your son, WitchLord," Deathbringer replied, chuckling. "You did not know? My, she holds more secrets than a Runesword." "What, a son? Rannath?" Aaron looked over toward his Goddess. "Aaron, can we hold that discussion till later?" Rannath asked pleadingly. "Fine, but there is much we need to straighten out," Aaron replied. While they were having their discussion, Lord Azrael was discreetly searching the hall for an old, battered wooden box. Upon finding it, he slowly moved it toward his position and reached down picking it up. Aaron looked over toward Reg, who had been silent the entire time, "Reg, what are you doing? Are you alright?" Reg was standing in front of a runestone with his hand outstretched. He had been that way for sometime. "Harpist, either reach out and grasp that sword, or step away," Deathbringer admonished. "I cannot keep this hall here for all of eternity." Reg reached out and wrapped his hand around the sword hilt. "What is your name?" Reg heard in his head. "I am Reginald Ravensblade, Harpist to the Lady Melody, Goddess of Music and Love," Reg replied. "What is your name?" "Will you be my wielder?" Reg heard in reply. "What is your name first?" Reg countered. "Timekeeper," the sword replied. "Again I ask, will you be my wielder?" "Yes, I will be your wielder," Reg replied. "Then I will be your sword," Timekeeper responded. "Pull me forth, Harpist of Time." Reg pulled the Runesword from its stone and held it high in the air. He held a longsword, runes carved in its blade, a large blood red gem in the pommel of the swept hilt. The sword glowed with a silvery light. Reg's sword and scabbard fell from his hip, and clattered on the floor. In its place a plain scabbard appeared. "BEHOLD, I AM TIMEKEEPER, SWORD OF TIME, MASTER OF GATES," the sword proclaimed, its raspy bass voice echoing off the walls. Timekeeper lowered its volume and pitch and continued. "Time has been set free!" The sword's flame changed from silver to blue. "What is this, I burn with the blue of a Tarran?" Timekeeper proclaimed, astonished. "You are not Tarran, My Lord, yet you have their power within you." Both Aaron and Reg whipped their heads around to stare at each other astonished. "Time is set free?" Reg proclaimed. "You have got to be kidding me!" "Well, it looks like another quest, Reg," Aaron chuckled. "That was my fault, Timekeeper," Aaron answered the sword. "He was dying and I poured power into him, trying to save him. It changed him. He could feel the energy, so I tried to show him how to tap Eldritch, but I did not do a good job of it." "I will take care of that, if you require, My Lord?" Timekeeper asked. "Before the hall leaves, the box you search for is over there," Deathbringer's astral projection rotated to the left and a box slid out from under a pile of jewels. Aaron reached down and picked it up. It was exactly how Mara had described it. "HAIL, AND WELL MET, WITCHLORD," Deathbringer proclaimed, and the hall faded from view, leaving them standing in a storage room, significantly smaller. On the ground at Aaron's feet was a medium size chest, lid open and full of gold, and several pouches full of jewels. Aaron looked around shaking his head and walked over to Reg and handed him the black lacquered box, "Please, hold this for now." "So, you are really not an actual God?" Aaron asked, turning to Rannath. "Our knowledge and power has increased since our ascension," Rannath explained. "We are Gods to the races of Andor. Is not the robin a God to the worm?" "I suppose. I guess it is all a matter of perspective," Aaron concluded. "Were you going to tell me you were pregnant?" Rannath looked at Azrael and then back at Aaron, and sighed. "Truthfully, no, I did not intend to burden you with my decision." "Your decision, I do not understand?" Aaron said, shaking his head. "It was inevitable that I would become pregnant if I laid with you," she explained. "It was how our races procreated. I knew that before I spent the night." "So, what now?" Aaron asked. "Nothing," Rannath replied. "I will birth him and he will be raised by others, that is our penance." "Not mine!" Aaron replied, forcefully. "I will know my child, he should not grow up like I did." "It is not for us to decide," Rannath explained. "The Great Mother commands it." "Damn the Great Mother, whoever she is," Aaron cried. "A child should know its parents." "Aaron, be careful what you say," Rannath admonished him. "Our child's future has already been ordained." "Fates again, yes?" Aaron sighed, when Rannath nodded. "Fine, do what you must." "Our relationship must change, however," Aaron sighed, again. "I will always be your champion should you have need, but no longer can I be your Paladin. I must be my own, do you understand." "Yes," she whispered. She then softly kissed him and faded from view. Azrael stepped forward, warily watching the dark elf. "A gift, WitchLord, before I leave," Azrael said, holding out the box. "What is it?" Aaron asked. "Where is the fun in that, WitchLord?" Azrael replied. Aaron accepted the box and Azrael faded from view as well. "The next person that calls me WitchLord, I think I'll take their head," Aaron stated, clearly exasperated. "AS YOU COMMAND, MY LORD," Black Rose proclaimed. "Speaking of which, Black Rose," Aaron pulled his sword. "Was Deathbringer's command open ended? Are you now able to tell me everything I ask?" "Well, My Lord... ," Black Rose was clearly pondering the question. "Yes, I believe so. Yes, My Lord, you may ask me anything, and I can respond." "Fine, then," Aaron started, before being interrupted by a voice in his head. "Nice try. Simple thief, huh?" Deathbringer chuckled. "Black Rose, the dispensation has been withdrawn." "Yes, Lord," Black Rose replied, and then to Aaron. "I am sorry, My Lord." "Not as much as I," Aaron sighed. "Aaron, look at this shelf," Reg called out. "There are bottles of Gnomish here, and they are old." Aaron walked over to the shelf and there were indeed several bottles of Gnomish single-malt that were more than 500 years old. "Reg, you know it pretty much stops aging once it's bottled," Aaron reminded him. "However, I bet it is really, really good, regardless." Reaching into his cloak and removing a box that contained two glasses he exclaimed, "Have dram glasses, will travel." Setting the glasses down, he cracked the wax seal from one of the bottles and removed the stopper. He slowly poured the amber liquid into the glasses and set the bottle down. Handing Reg his drink, he raised his glass in salute and downed the liquid. Gods, it was smooth and mellow, warming as it went down. Looking at Reg, who nodded, Aaron poured another round, and another, finally replacing the cork. "What is in the box the God gave you?" Reg asked. "And who was that God, by the way?" "That was Lord Azrael, God of Shadows," Rac-Nur joined the discussion. "Be leery of any gift from him." "Rac-Nur, what a terrible thing to say about your patron," Aaron laughed. "Although I definitely agree. Let's see what is inside." Aaron inspected the box. There was a needle trap, which he disabled. Next, a spring trap which would have released a poison had he not disabled it, and then a hinge trap that was a flash-bang, which Aaron also disabled. Finally opening the lid revealed a cloak and a ring box on top. The cloak was black and shimmering, and opening the ring box revealed a band of metal, black and shimmering, as well. Picking up the cloak, Aaron held it out in front of him. "Red Rose, does this cloak have magic?" Aaron asked. "Yes, My Lord, it is highly magical," the sword replied. "Well, it's magical, don't know what it is though," Aaron said, turning the cloak back and forth. "I like my cloak better though." Turning the cloak to look at the back, the side swished and brushed his cloak. The fabric in his hand faded away as the cloak flowed into his cloak. Aaron's cloak changed colors from gray to black and back to gray. "The best of both worlds," Reg chuckled. "Unless it tries to kill you." Aaron turned around looking at the cloak. "Aaron, you're shifting around!" Reg exclaimed. "I'm having a hard time pinpointing exactly where you are standing. The cloak is displacing your position. Minute changes to your position, but changes non the less. "You're right," Aaron said. "Excellent! Now for the ring." Placing the ring on the index finger of his right hand, he waited for something to happen, and nothing! "Well, that was anti-climactic," Aaron exclaimed, looking at the ring. "Aaron, what's the plan, from here?" Reg asked. "I'm not sure of the time of day," Aaron replied. "But, if it's late, then let's spend the night and head out in the morning. We need to see the Sidhe. Well, you do, anyway. And then off to Mara." Reg agreed and after conferring with Timekeeper, they decided to spend the night right where they were. They stowed several bottles, all of the gold, and jewels and settled down for the night. ------- Chapter 6 The next morning they packed their belongings and began the trek out of the catacombs. As they left the lit storeroom into the darker hallway Reg noticed that Aaron became harder to see. "Aaron, you're almost invisible. No that's not right; more like you faded into the shadows," Reg explained. "Step back into the storeroom please?" Aaron complied with Reg's wishes and sure enough he was much easier to see. "Aaron, just bear with me a moment?" he asked and pulled his sword. As Reg stepped closer and brought Timekeeper up into a striking position, Aaron's image shifted back and forth, making it difficult to target him. Reg put Timekeeper away and Aaron's image settled back into place. "Your position shifts back and forth, similar to a displacer beast," Reg said. "I think your cloak has those properties as a minimum." "Well, that was certainly interesting!" Reg exclaimed, walking out into the hall. "Now, let's try something else. Aaron, step out into the hall." Aaron again complied with Reg's wishes and walked out of the lit storeroom, into the darker hallway. Aaron blended into the shadows, almost, but not completely disappearing. "Interesting," Reg remarked. "Now, go back into the room, pull up your hood and step back out." Once again Aaron went into the storeroom, this time he pulled up the hood of his cloak and stepped out into the darker hall and into the shadows and vanished! "Gods, that's remarkable," Reg exclaimed, astonished. "Timekeeper, where did he go?" "He has shifted to the Shadow Realm, My Lord," Timekeeper replied. "Do you want me to bring him back?" "Not quite yet," Reg replied. "I'll give him a little time before pulling him out." ------- Aaron wasn't really sure what Reg was up to, but if his experiments revealed anything about the cloak then he was willing to go along. When Reg said to bear with him and then brought his sword up to a killing strike, Aaron's natural instinct was to block and attack. Standing there waiting for the sword to fall was certainly an uncomfortable position to be in. When Reg told him he was shifting around that was definitely a surprise, and a happy one at that. The stepping in and out of the storeroom was becoming tedious, but Aaron accepted it with good grace. He had decided though, to tell Reg that the last time with the hood up, was going to be the last experiment. Aaron had not expected this result. Aaron was still standing in the hall, well, sort of. Where he was, he didn't know, what he did know was that everywhere he looked it was gray - shifting shades of gray. A drab reality with an irritating background noise, like ringing in his ears, or a low droning buzz. It was chilly and damp and the air was thick and fluid, worse than the most humid day he had ever been in. Aaron could still see the walls and substance of the hallway, but he could see right through it too, as if he could walk right through, and he did. He walked right through the earth, ending up in the small hallway with the steps leading up to the dungeon level. It was as if this plane of existence was within the Material, but separate somehow. Looking down he saw that the ring that came with the cloak, and was now on his index finger of his right hand, glowed with an eerie gray aura. The sudden cry of some fell thing caused the hairs to rise on the back of Aaron's neck. What Aaron didn't realize was that he was a beacon in this gray, eerie world. Every wraith, stalker, and demon that called this plane home was converging on his position. Aaron could see movement within the shadowy mist and drew his swords and began to pull power. Wherever he was he still had access to Eldritch, and that was good. Aaron was surrounded by monsters straight out of the worst childhood nightmares, or grown-up nightmares, for that matter. His swords glowed with bluish light and pulsed with power, as the creatures closed in on him. Just when Aaron thought that battle was inevitable, the creatures stopped and genuflected! Boy, he hadn't see that coming! Looking around Aaron saw some twenty or so creatures all on their knees, or what passed for knees for some of them. There were wraiths, stalkers, and several demons, as well as a creature that looked like a dragon or something similar, all around him, all waiting for something. "My Lord, I think they wait on you," Black Rose said. "Command them." "You may rise, or whatever," Aaron commanded, sweeping his arm around. "And return to your previous duties." The creatures rose and began to fade away. "Red Rose, where are we?" Aaron asked. "The Shadow Realm, My Lord," the sword replied. "It is another plane of existence, within the Material plane yet separate. Your movement in here will be reflected out there. Be careful where you are when you reemerge on the Material plane." "So, if I step into the Shadow Realm and move to a different location, I can then step back into the Material plane at that location?" Aaron asked. "Yes, My Lord," Red Rose replied. "No more locked doors," Aaron laughed, and then sobered up. "What is the cost?" "Cost, My Lord?" Red Rose asked, confused. "I don't understand." "Lord Azrael, you can come out now," Aaron called out. "Well done, Lord Whiterune," Lord Azrael laughed, fading into view. "Your gifts are truly spectacular!" Aaron began. "Why?" "Why not?" Lord Azrael replied. "Before the ascension I was a thief. So consider this a gift from one thief to another." "And you expect nothing in return?" Aaron asked. "You heard me say that my desires were simple. I do not want to be involved in intrigue or politics. I will remain Lady Rannath's Champion, I owe her that, but that is the extent of my involvement." "I understand completely," Lord Azrael replied. "I had hoped that perhaps I might receive the same involvement. That I might be able to call upon you in time of need." "What? I would be your champion as well?" Aaron asked. "Couldn't there by a potential conflict of interest?" "No, not exactly a champion," Lord Azrael replied. "More in line with the services you performed for the Guild Council in Aithen." "You want a troubleshooter?" Aaron replied. "An Assassin?" "Would that present a problem?" Lord Azrael asked. "There may be circumstances where my direct involvement could pose problems. I would need someone who could act on my behalf." "No, I guess not really," Aaron replied. "I would want right of refusal though. I had a broad charter with the Council, and could refuse assignments. I would want that same understanding." "I understand completely," Lord Azrael replied. "So, is that a yes?" "Yes, with reservations," Aaron replied. "I accept under those terms." "That is acceptable to me," Lord Azrael replied. "One thing you should know. Never enter the Shadow Realm without that ring. The cloak will gain you access through any shadow on the Material plane, but the ring denotes you as a Lord of the Realm. Without it, the denizens will eat your soul, but with it they are your willing minions." "Lovely," Aaron replied. "I'll keep that in mind." "There are other things I'd like to talk to you about," Lord Azrael explained. "Things you may not know." Azrael discussed several things with Aaron; all of which were revelations in one way or another. "Thank you for the information, Lord Azrael," Aaron nodded. "I guess I owe you for that as well." "No, not at all," Lord Azrael replied. "I just thought you should know." "Good day, Lord Whiterune," Lord Azrael faded from view. "Well, it looks like I have a new job," Aaron sighed. "I had better get back, before Reg calls out the bloodhounds." ------- Reg was getting a little antsy when Aaron pulled back his hood and faded into view. "I was getting a little worried," Reg said. "Sorry, I was just following your experiments," Aaron replied, smiling. "And, what did you find out?" Reg asked. "The cloak shifts me into the Shadow Realm when I stand in the shadows with the hood up," Aaron explained. "The ring gives me passage within the realm." Aaron explained what had happened, leaving out his discussion with the Shadow God. He also described the local inhabitants, causing a shiver from Reg. Having decided to check on the front gates, they continued through the dungeon and out into the main hall. After listening at the door and hearing nothing they prepared themselves. Aaron continued to pull in power to the point that blue sparks jumped from finger to finger. All three had their swords at the ready when they removed the timbers and Aaron opened the door. A beautiful morning greeted them when the doors were opened. The front gates were open, the portcullis was up, and most importantly not a single undead warrior could be seen. Aaron asked Red Rose if a warding rune could be a tuned to a person or thing. Red Rose confirmed that it could and explained how, so Aaron had Red Rose ward the doors after they left the keep. Aaron directed Reg and Rac-Nur to place a hand in the door while Red Rose warded it. At some point it would need to be re-occupied, but that would come later. For now the runes of warding should protect the keep. Swords at the ready, they made their way to the front gates, which Aaron shut and warded as well. Taking the highway back toward Dria, they went looking for the sidhe tree village. They had only been on the road for a few moments when a sidhe hunting party stepped out of the forest. "Lord Whiterune, there are patrols out looking for you," the leader of the hunting party said. "I'll inform Cael that you've been found. If you will follow me?" They arrived at the city several hours later to find Cael, Moira, and the village elders on the forest floor waiting for them. "Was your trip successful?" Cael asked. "More successful than you can imagine," Aaron said. "Reg has something he wants to share with you." "Cael, I have set time free and can open the gate home," Reg said with little fanfare. "You can leave anytime you want, right now if you desire." "What, how is that possible?" Cael cried. "I don't understand, how did you set time free?" "I pulled the Sword of Time from its stone," Reg replied. "Do you want to open the gate now?" "You have caught us by surprise," Cael exclaimed. "Let the Elders meet and decide. Have you eaten?" "That's fine, we are no longer pressed for time," Aaron replied, chuckling. "And we have not eaten." Moira escorted them to the large hall where the adventurers were served lunch while the village elders met to decide their next course of action. After lunch the elders announced that they would leave in the morning. This evening they would have a celebration of their lives on Andor. In the morning they would journey home. Families began packing their things for the trip. Everything they intended to take they moved into one of the large halls, then they began dismantling their living huts. By the time of the celebration most of the village had been dismantled. For the banquet, sumptuous morsels were set out and there was lively music and dancing. Reg joined the impromptu orchestra and entertained the audience. Moira sat with Aaron and discussed inconsequential things, just making small talk. Rac-Nur, ever vigilant and silent, stayed close to his liege. The celebration went well into the night before breaking up. Cael led Reg away to a discussion with the village elders, while Moira led Aaron away for a discussion of a different sort. Rac-Nur posted himself outside the hut were Aaron spent what remained of the night. The village was bustling early the next morning. A train of people passed their possessions to the forest floor, while another finished dismantling the huts and halls. Finally the last of their possessions were down and the large meeting hall dismantled and brought down as well. Looking up at the forest canopy, a person would never know a village had been there as little as a day ago. Cael brought them to where two trees had grown together forming an opening in between their trunks. The opening was the doorway home - the gate's access. The village elders quieted the crowd as Reg drew Timekeeper. "Timekeeper, this gate will take the Sidhe home," Reg explained. "Please open it." The sword's runes burned with a bright silvery light and then went out. "My Lord, the gate is locked," Timekeeper explained. "I could force it open, but, it would be better if you used the key." "What key?" Reg asked. "A tone, My Lord," Timekeeper replied. "The gate's power is attuned to a tone. Your harp, My Lord, play the scale. "Can you support yourself, while I play?" Reg asked. "Yes, My Lord, just release me," Timekeeper responded. Holding Timekeeper out in front of him, Reg let go and the sword stayed hovering in place. Reg removed Belle, and after checking that the strings were still in tune, he played the scales. "There, My Lord, that tone," Timekeeper told him. "Can you play a melody with that tone?" Reg shifted to a simple melody with the tone reoccurring. He played it twice through. "Master Reginald, you're playing the melody to a sidhe traveling song," Cael remarked, clearly astonished. "If I have it played for you, could you repeat it?" Reg said he could, so Cael called for a musician to play the song through so Reg could repeat it on Belle. Reg listened to the song and repeated it. "Yes, My Lord, that's it," Timekeeper exclaimed and opened the gate. The air between the two trunks coalesced and turned opaque, before changing to a viscous fluid-like substance similar to quicksilver. "It is done, My Lord," Timekeeper announced. "The gate is open." Reg completed the song and put Belle back in her case and strapped it back on. Reaching out and grasping Timekeeper, he thanked the sword and put it back in its scabbard. The excitement amongst the sidhe was almost palpable as they got in a makeshift line and began walking through the gate and disappearing. The exodus lasted just over two hours until the only sidhe left were Cael and Moira. Giving Aaron a kiss, she smiled at him and passed through. "You cannot imagine how appreciative we are at meeting you both," Cael smiled, tears in his eyes. "We had always thought that Andor would be our home, yet you have given us the gift of returning to our true home. We could never come close to be able to repay you in kind. We hope that the blessings of the Gods will follow you all of the days of your lives." Cael hugged them both and then waved, passing through the gate. Silence wrapped the adventurers in her bosom, as they reflected on the sidhe. "Timekeeper, you can close the gate," Reg commanded, as the fluid faded away and light once again passed through the opening. Aaron looking around and was amazed, the forest looked pristine, virgin. No trace of the sidhe remained. The sidhe had taken care of Thorn, as well as Reg's mount, while the adventurers were in the castle. Upon their return to the village the sidhe had given Rac-Nur a mountain pony. They walked their horses to the highway, mounted and headed off toward Dria. They reached the outskirts of Dria several hours later and decided to visit Mara before securing lodging for the evening. They took the path heading north and started rising in elevation as the path climbed the foothills, finally reaching a point where their horses were useless, except the pony Rac-Nur rode. That little horse stepped nimbly up the path, almost gleefully enjoying the climb. Dismounting, they left the horses to freely graze as they continued on foot. The path they followed began to slowly fade from view, until it was little more than a game trail, yet still they climbed. After an hour the path leveled out toward the mouth of a cave in the distance, which was their destination, so they picked up the pace. Reaching the mouth of the cave Aaron didn't light a torch this time; instead he pulled in power and then created his blue light ball which bobbed along next to them. Aaron drew Black Rose, looked to Reg for confirmation and after receiving a nod entered the cave. Reg and Rac-Nur both readied their swords as well and followed him in. The floor slanted down as they walked further in, the cave now turning into a tunnel. They followed the bend of the cave to the left, where the runes were engraved on the walls, and where the temperature of the cave increased. They passed that same point where the air tingled, causing static to raise the hair on their heads. This time Aaron recognized it as Eldritch, a rune of warding of some type. They were allowed to pass, so the rune was not generic, it must be specifically attuned to something, or someone. Aaron stopped in front of door in a wooden wall across the cave and knocked. "Come in, weary travelers," Mara answered. After dismissing the light ball, they stepped in to the fully furnished parlor. Tapestries and paintings hung from the walls, and there was the heraldry from the book. A large rug covered the floor, a fire crackled in a hearth off to their right and a bookshelf took up the whole of one wall. In front of them a long, blonde wood staff with black metal banded ends leaned against a cloak stand next to a large wing-backed chair, where a little old grandmotherly lady sat eyeing them curiously, holding a teacup and smoking a long clay pipe. The woman was old, silver hair hung in curls framing a gentle face, once probably beautiful, but now worn by time. Grey eyes tilted upward at the outside corners, straight eyebrows following the tilt of the eye and pointy ears, clearly an elf or of elven blood, small of stature, yet radiating power, Eldritch power. Delicate fingers held the teacup, unadorned with the exception of a single black band on the index finger of her right hand. She was dressed in a simple black robe, gathered at the waist by a gold sash, enhancing a nice (at one time, long ago) bust. Aaron sat the box down on the table in front of Mara and sat in one of the three available chairs. Reg sat as well, but Rac-Nur stood, legs apart, arms crossed, and hands resting on the hilts of his swords. "Not real sociable, is he?" Mara remarked, reaching down and picking up the box. "He takes his duties seriously," Aaron replied, as Mara opened the box and looked inside. "You have no idea how long I have waited for this day," Mara proclaimed, gently lifting the stone out of the box. "You're an Elfen Witch, aren't you?" Aaron stated, watching her remove the stone. "You have gained insight, since last we met," Mara looked at the stone and then at Aaron, intently. "What game are you playing, Master Thief?" "We had a deal," Mara said standing, holding the stone out. "What is this?" "I don't understand," Aaron spread his hands. "Our deal was for me to bring you that box, which contained a scrying stone. Is that not a scrying stone?" "You know perfectly well what this is, and isn't," Mara replied. "Where is the stone that was in that box?" "Who imprisoned you, Mara?" Aaron asked, standing as well. "That's what this is, a prison, isn't it?" "I want my stone," Mara raised her voice. "And I want it now!" "Then we are at an impasse, Mara," Aaron replied calmly. "I want answers." "If you draw power, I will take that as an attack, Mara," Aaron calmly stated. "Now, my dear friend Reg can take us out of here at any point. If you want to make a new deal, then I am open to negotiations." "What is it that you want?" Mara sighed, sitting back down and placing the scrying stone on the table in front of her. "Just some answers, Mara," Aaron replied, sitting as well. "Who imprisoned you? Tarran or Thangdaemon?" "Does it matter?" Mara asked. "I just want out. I want my stone. I want to be left alone." "We are not getting anywhere," Aaron replied. "It matters to me." "You apparently already know," Mara replied. "Lord Devlin trapped and imprisoned me. I have been in this room for 500 years." "Did you know that he was banished from the Ethereal plane?" Aaron asked. "That he was back on the Material plane, and behind those knights?" "I am aware of much, Lord Whiterune," Mara responded. "Please, call me Aaron?" Aaron asked. "Will you help me, against him?" "You have a funny way of asking for help," Mara replied. "I like to negotiate from a position of strength," Aaron smiled. "Well?" "No. I will not side with, or against you," Mara smiled as well. "I would find it distasteful to ally with a Tarran." "Why Mara, that hurt my feelings," Aaron laughed. Aaron reached into his cloak and pulled out a different bag. Opening the bag of holding, he reached inside and removed a black stone. Holding it out in the palm of his hand toward Mara. "Now, I am astonished," Mara exclaimed, reaching for the stone and removing it from Aaron's palm. "How were you able to hold it with it inflicting injury upon you?" "I have learned many interesting things," Aaron replied. "For example, I have a unique ability to hold and use items of power, without repercussions. Any item of power." "I know you are probably angry with me," Aaron smiled. "I always intended to return it to you, but I wanted your help. I'll accept the fact that you won't hinder me." "As a token of respect," Aaron pulled Red Rose, "Red Rose, remove the runes that ward this prison." "AS YOU COMMAND, MY LORD," Red Rose replied and disappeared. Aaron felt the power flow away as his sword removed the bars of Mara's prison. Red Rose returned to Aaron's outstretched hand. "It is done, My Lord," the sword announced. Mara breathed deeply and smiled. She turned and grasped the staff leaning by her. Picking it up and striking it to the ground, magic flowed from the staff encircling her in green flames. When the flames faded away, gone was the elderly lady, in her place a young, gorgeous Elfen female. Her hair was no longer silver, but brown curly locks framing a beautiful face, and her skin was tight and creamy smooth. Gray eyes twinkled with mirth. The black robe scooped in the front enhancing a tantalizing bust line. She walked up to Aaron, grabbed him by the shoulders and kissed him passionately. "That's for removing the wards." Stepping back, she slapped his face hard, "and that's for misleading me. Now we are even." Aaron brought his hand up to his stinging cheek. "I accept that. The kiss was nicer though." "I promised we would talk when you returned," Mara smiled, sitting down. "But I don't think that will be necessary any longer." She sat the stone in a wood tripod, made from the same wood as her staff. "Is there anything else you want to know?" she asked. "No, I think I understand who I am," Aaron replied. "I am going to try my best to stay that way. Where will you go, what will you do?" "I have a tower in the west," Mara replied. "I will go there, and re-enter civilization." "If you're not going to use that scrying stone, could I have it back?" Aaron asked, pointing to the stone lying on the table. "Where did you get it?" Mara asked, handing him the scrying stone, which he put back in his bag of holding. "Well, I needed a substitute, an actual scrying stone," Aaron explained. "So, I put my hand in the bag you gave me, and thought of a scrying stone, exactly how you described your real stone. Imagine my surprise, when I pulled it out. This sack is so much more than a sack that provides roses, and I thank you for that." "I told you not to be narrow-minded," she smiled. "Well, Mara, I think it's time for us to leave," Aaron and Reg stood. "I am sure we will meet again," Mara stood as well, right hand on the stone, left hand holding her staff. Striking the staff on the floor, she vanished, leaving them standing in the now empty cave. They turned and left, returning to their horses. They rode back down to Dria and spent the night there. Rac-Nur created quite the stir, until a look from Aaron calmed everyone down. Sara was reserved, but happy to see them, and put them up for the night. First thing bright and early the next morning, they were off for Realto. The trip went quickly, Aaron felt no strange emotions when the road passed through that section of the forest, and they arrived in Realto early evening. Again, there was an issue at the manor's gates concerning Rac-Nur, but Aaron kept the guards calmed while a messenger was sent for the Duke. Duke Thandar was happy to see them, and very surprised to meet a dark elf. After introductions he organized a feast in their honor. Micah spent the entire evening engaged in conversation with Rac-Nur. The next morning at breakfast, Reg informed Aaron that he wouldn't be accompanying him to Aithen. "There is an issue with an ancient calendar in a faraway land," Reg explained. "It predicts cataclysmic events, but it is incorrect, and could lead to the end of times for the people living there. Timekeeper says we must go there and correct the error." "I have enjoyed our journeying together and wish you luck," Aaron reached out and grasped Reg's forearm. "If you get back this way, have Timekeeper find me and stop in." "Hail and well met, Aaron," Reg called out and vanished. ------- Thus ends the adventuring of Reginald Ravensblade, Harpist of Time, with Aaron Whiterune, Thief of Roses. They will meet again in a distant future, and in a land far from Andor. But do not fret, for Aaron's saga continues. ------- Chapter 7 With Reg gone, Aaron stayed in Realto for several days. He practiced daily with Rac-Nur and Master Caleb. He tried on several occasions to convince Rac-Nur to return to his home until Aaron had need of him, but Rac-Nur was having none of that. He had already forfeited his place in his clan, by just being with Aaron, even despite, or really because of the life-debt. The fact that a Shoc-Du, would require assistance from a non Shoc-Du was unthinkable, even from someone like Aaron for whom they had great respect. Like it or not, Aaron was Rac-Nur's clan, dismissing him now would be akin to a death sentence. Aaron explained that he intended to move to a town somewhere west of Aithen, purchase a small home as a base of operations, and would need someone to look out for his interests. While Rac-Nur was not thrilled with living in a human town, he knew his options were limited and agreed to help Aaron in any way he needed. It was going to be interesting have a dark elf as a manservant, to say the least. He would definitely turn heads wherever Aaron settled. ------- Her Highness, The Lady Laura Ragnarak, daughter of His Excellency, Duke Benjamin Ragarak, 13th Duke of Malkur, was on a sabbatical in the Southern Reaches when reports surfaced that young women were being targeted for abduction. Her father sent word to the port city of Re-An, where she was enjoying the summer, that he wanted her to return home at once. Duke Benjamin and his daughter, Lady Laura, had different definitions of 'at once'. Lady Laura, known un-affectionately as 'The Ducal Brat', was the only child of the Duke and heir to the Duchy of Malkur, as well as a vast mercantile empire. The apple of her father's eye, she was spoiled with every luxury that she desired, and she desired it all. She was also the most sought after prize in the Merchant World. In short, she was a spoiled little rich girl, and she knew it! She was tall at 5'10", but slender, with legs that went on for leagues, flaming red hair, hazel green eyes, a dancer's build, and medium sized breasts that seemed large on her frame. She walked with grace and a certain air of superiority. She was a beautiful young woman of 20, but had the personality of an old hag. When her father ordered her home, she threw a temper tantrum for three days before relenting. Her governess/chaperone took charge of packing and sent word to the Duke that they would leave shortly. 'Shortly' turned into another week, and by that time the road from Re-An to Malkur was unsafe to travel, due to seasonal sand storms. The only way home was through the kingdom of Aithen. The trip to Aithen would take a week and then another two to Malkur. Her entourage consisted of her governess/chaperone, two female Malkurian Guardsmen as bodyguards and a squad of 10 Malkurian Guardsmen as escort. The duke handpicked each member of her escort and assigned a full captain from his personal guard as commander. She rode in a coach with her chaperone and one bodyguard inside the coach and the driver and the other bodyguard up on the seat. Five guardsmen and the captain rode on horseback in front of the coach and five on horseback behind. They were attacked on the morning of the fourth day out of Re-An. A platoon of orcs, four full squads led by a subaltern, ambushed them as they travelled down the road. The ambush site was strategically chosen to provide optimum cover for the orcs, and the initial attack took out half of the escort guard. Fearing for the safety of Her Highness, the captain in charge of the guard commanded the coach to flee while they fought off the orcs. Several hours later when there still was no sign of her escort, the bodyguards were forced to continue the journey alone. They stayed on the road and switched off with the driver, never stopping and made Aithen's borders a full day ahead of schedule. Still leery of stopping before they reached the city gates, they continued on. Having been forced to stay in the coach for the past three days, Lady Laura arrived in Aithen in a foul mode and let everyone in ear shot know it. King Thane was holding daily court when a loud commotion in the hall drowned out all noise in the throne room. Chamberlain Walton was trying his best to steer Her Highness away from court and into an anteroom to wait, but she was having none of that. Bursting into the court she demanded an audience with the King! Bowing slightly before the throne she launched into a tirade about the servant's manners and how she should not wait like a peasant to see the King. King Thane was forced to close court and see to the needs of his neighbor's daughter. What he truly wanted to do was take her over his knee and spank her! This went on for several days, with no apparent end in sight. Every day, at least four to five times a day, she interrupted whatever he was doing at the time, to complain about some aspect of the high city, or some slight, however small or imagined, by a member of his staff. He sent word to Malkur, letting the Duke know that she was safe and that just as soon as he could muster enough men, he would have her escorted home. Aithen, like Malkur, had every able bodied guardsman out patrolling and seeing to the safety and security of its borders. In Aithen's case, that included all lands not under the protection of Dukes or other landowners. Her latest temper tantrum had pushed Chamberlain Walton to the brink of civility. His insistence that she book an appointment to see the King, and not just barge into his office, or worse, his private quarters, which she had done on several occasions, had gone un-heeded. King Thane was at his wits' end, and seriously contemplated having some kind of accident befall her. He needed to get rid of her, before she completely disrupted Aithen. He did not know that his salvation had just passed through the city gates! ------- "Are you going to mope around Realto until winter?" Micah asked Aaron one morning after practice. "I am not moping, and who left you in charge?" Aaron asked peevishly. "Father," Micah laughed. "He told me to get your attention. It looks like I have." "I am going to get your attention," Aaron mocked growled and chased Micah around the practice ring. Finally catching him, they rolled around the ground wrestling for supremacy until finally Aaron wore the larger Micah down and pinned him. Laughing, Aaron cleaned up and went in search of his father, finding him in the wine cellar with the steward. "Father, I thank you for your hospitality, but it is time I moved on," Aaron explained. "I plan to stop in Aithen and then move west and settle in a town there. Once I am settled I will send word." They discussed several topics including the castle in the forest. Duke Thandar wanted to explore the lands east and possibly lay claim to them. Aaron advised caution when exploring and his father concurred. Aaron also mentioned that he was probably going to hire guardsmen to man the castle and protect his interests. He told his father not to be surprised if a company or so of guardsmen stopped in on their way toward the castle. He took Micah aside and talked with him quietly for several minutes and then handed him another gold coin. This one was not enchanted, but more of a calling card or personal token from Aaron. Saying his goodbyes to all, he and Rac-Nur headed out. Their first order of business was to stop in Aithen and see his uncle one more time. Aaron wanted letters of introduction from the Merchants' Guild and the crown. He intended to use the Merchants' Guild as a cover. He had sufficient financing for a stake in a merchant house in Aithen and intended to use that as an inroad to a house in whatever town he chose. He also wanted an obscure title, and thought his uncle could help there as well. A short distance from Realto, Aaron stopped and questioned Black Rose on the particulars of teleporting. Teleporting was an easy way of going from point "A" to point "B", as long as you had a good mental picture of both points. It was impossible, or more correctly, highly dangerous, to teleport to a place that you hadn't been to, because you could wind up teleporting into something that wasn't meant to be teleported into, like a tree, or a rock. The teleportation limit wasn't based on the number of people, or amount of weight, it was based on the total area being teleported. Black Rose assured Aaron that as long as Aaron provided the power, there would be no issues. Aaron pulled power from his surroundings and commanded Black Rose to teleport him and Rac-Nur to an area about a mile east of Aithen alongside the Old Kings' Highway. ------- Several days passed and still no WitchLord. Tanith had felt slight echoes of his power usage, but nothing solid, nothing leading her to his exact location. She knew that he was moving west and she was sure that she was at the crossroads of his journey. Every morning she walked down to the city gates and back trying to pinpoint his location. Every morning so far, nothing. She spent the rest of her days walking the streets exercising the years of hibernation away, or practicing the sword at the local Fighters' Guild. Usually after lunch she would walk out of the city and down the road and teleport to the mountains. Once there she would change back to her base form and stretch her wing muscles on the upper air currents. The rest of the day was spent catching up on the history of Andor during her hibernation. ------- Aaron and Rac-Nur appeared just off the highway within a mile of the city's gates. The nudged their horses forward and joined the flow of traffic entering the city. They were detained at the gates until Aaron showed his royal papers of entry, and vouched for Rac-Nur. The guards gave him a pass which he had to show at every gate. Making their way through the middle city and to the upper city, where they were passed through those gates as well. Aaron received not even a second look as they travelled to the upper city and the palace. People stopped and stared, pointing at Rac-Nur who paid them little mind. The sight of a dark elf in the high city caused a small panic, until guards restored order. Aaron stopped at the palace courtyard and dismounted, handing Thorn's reigns off to a groom. Cautioning Rac-Nur that the King was his uncle they approached the palace gates. Aaron vouched for Rac-Nur and was admitted to the palace. Word was sent ahead, and Chamberlain Walton met them on the other side of the gardens. "Lord Aaron, your uncle will be happy to see you," Walton grasped his arm. "Walton, this is my assistant, Rac-Nur of the Tem-Pe clan of the Shoc-Du," Aaron made the introductions. "Is my uncle busy?" "I will take you right to him, please follow me," Walton replied, nodding at Rac-Nur. Walton led them to the private audience chamber, knocked and opened the door, holding it open for Aaron and Rac-Nur. Inside, the King was sitting at his desk having an animated conversation with a young woman - actually, it was the woman who was animated - with a pained expression on his face. She was beautiful, yet her beauty was dulled by the look on her face, as well as, the pitch and tone of her voice. She was flanked by two women fighters, who turned when Aaron and Rac-Nur entered, placing their hands on the hilts of their swords. They wore the livery of Malkur, so Aaron reasoned that they were Malkurian Guardsmen and probably her bodyguards. Slightly behind and to the left of her stood another woman, a little older, but still quite lovely, with the same pained expression on her face as the King. Aaron was about to enter the discussion when the King cut him off. "You are here already," he announced, which caused the woman to turn toward Aaron. "That was fast." "Walton, we must commend the Guild on their speedy response," the King nodded at Walton. "Yes, Your Majesty," Walton replied, clearly confused. "Lady Laura, I would like to introduce Master Aaron Whiterune," the King gestured toward Aaron. "One of Aithen's premier SwordMasters and bodyguards. He has been commissioned to return you to Malkur, and to your father." Aaron stopped dead in his tracks, clearly as confused as Walton was. He looked to Walton, who shrugged, and then back to his uncle when he was brought up short by Laura's scathing remarks. "Do they not teach court etiquette to Aithen's SwordMasters?" Lady Laura asked, a little haughtily. She looked him up and down as one would inspect a horse or a slave. He was a handsome man, shorter than her, not very muscled, yet strength and confidence flowed from him like water. A dark elf stood next to him, a dark elf of all things! He coolly stared right back at her, obviously sizing her up as well. Aaron continued to stare, caught completely off-guard by his uncle. A nudge by Walton brought him back to the now. "Your Majesty, the Guild sends its respects," Aaron performed a sweeping bow, and then turned and bowed before Lady Laura. "My lady, my swords and I are at your disposal." "May I present my second, Rac-Nur. Ex-first sword of the Tem-Pe clan of the Shoc-Du," Aaron announced, bowing again. Rac-Nur just stared, hands on his hilts. "It is their custom not to bow to non Shoc-Du, Your Majesty," Aaron explained. "Master Rac-Nur," the King nodded and then turned to Aaron. "Master Whiterune, when can you be ready to travel?" "Your Majesty, Lady Laura; I have several commitments to discharge first. I can be ready to leave tomorrow, at the earliest," Aaron replied. "After that, whenever the Lady is ready to return home." "King Thane, I could not possibly be ready to travel for two or three days," Lady Laura replied, completely ignoring Aaron. "I have shopping to do and then packing, and shouldn't there be a farewell ball or gala event?" "Yes, Lady Laura, a farewell ball," King Thane sighed. "Do your last minute shopping tomorrow and we will plan the ball for three days hence. Would that be sufficient time?" "Oh yes, that will be perfect," she exclaimed, clearly excited. "Yes, a new dress and hairdo for the ball." "Thank you, Your Majesty," she curtsied, and turned to leave. She stopped and turned back to Aaron. "Coming?" she asked haughtily, tapping her foot. "Lady Laura, I would like a moment with Master Whiterune," King Thane explained. "And besides, he did mention that he had duties to discharge before he could leave." "Oh, very well," she spat, and turned and left the chamber. "Aaron, before you get upset, I am sorry," King Thane smiled. "She needs to get home, I need her to go home, and your arrival presented a perfect opportunity." "Yes, I can see by your smile, how sorry you are, Uncle," Aaron laughed. "She is a handful, is she not?" "Aaron, you have no idea," King Thane shook his head. "She has been here all of a week and I am ready to sanction a contract." "Well, then perhaps we can help each other," Aaron smiled. "I am thinking of buying a controlling interest in one of the less solvent merchant houses. I plan on moving west, so Malkur sounds like a perfect place. I will need letters of introductions and I would like a title, something obscure, yet legitimate. Can you help me?" "Yes, let me talk to Walton," the King replied. "I am sure we can come up with something. I am thinking a Marquis de something. What house are you thinking about investing in?" "I do not know that, yet," Aaron responded. "I was going to check around. If there is nothing further, I will be off. Wait, how about the Marquis de la Rose?" "Yes, that would work," the King replied. "I will have Walton start the necessary paperwork. Where are you staying?" "Nowhere, yet," Aaron replied. "Stay here, practice here," the King explained. "That way Lady Laura will have the opportunity to get to know you better. I will have to put you up in the south-wing guests' suites,, where Her Highness is staying. "That is fine," Aaron replied. "It will put me close, but does she really need my protection, since she has two bodyguards?" "I am not sure, but I would pit you against any two or five Malkurian Guardsmen anytime," the King responded. "Her coach was attacked by orcs and the entire escort was killed. I sent out additional patrols, but they have turned up nothing yet." "I have also encountered orcs, Uncle," Aaron explained. "Two squads worth on the highway south-east of Dria. I do not know if it is related or not." "There have been raids along the highway between here and Malkur as well," the King responded. "If these are patrols testing our strengths and are part of a much larger offensive, then we had better be prepared. I am worried about sending her home, so you guarding her will be a load off of my mind." "Well, I will try to handle her with a gentle touch," Aaron smiled. "If not, there is always a bull whip." "Yes, a bull whip might just work," King Thane chuckled. "Uncle, I really do have several errands to run," Aaron continued. "I should be back by dinner." "Oh, yes, of course," King Thane chuckled again. "I was just picturing you, her, and a bull whip." "By your leave?" Aaron asked, performing a perfect sweeping bow. "Knock it off," the King laughed. "Get out of here." "Yes, Your Majesty," Aaron bowed backing up, "Thank you, Your Majesty." Aaron turned and left the chambers. ------- "That man is so exasperating!" Lady Laura huffed. "He does not even know to show me the proper respect." "Who, Lady Laura?" Lady Laura's chaperone, Lady Colleen asked, knowing quite well who. "That guard, Master Whiterune," Lady Laura huffed and stomped her foot. "I am sure he did not mean to be," Colleen replied. "He seemed a little distracted to me." "Exactly," Lady Laura replied. "He should pay stricter attention when a noble is addressing him." "Perhaps he was determining how best to protect you?" Colleen tried to calm her down. "He is a SwordMaster, after all, they do not just give that away." "Well, I will give him another chance to prove himself," Lady Laura finally conceded. "But, I do not see why I need him? I have Rene and Michele to guard me. They have protected me well so far." "The King and your father are worried about the trip to Malkur, my lady," Colleen tried to explain. "They feel that the attack on the road to Aithen was not random. They also feel that you are a target, my lady. Your safety is paramount, and the King is offering one of the guild's best." "So everyone keeps saying," Lady Laura huffed. "He does not seem all that special to me. Rene, what do you think?" "His physique and demeanor are misleading, my lady," Rene replied, as Michele nodded in agreement. "There is death in his eyes, and power radiates from him. I would not take him lightly." "Hmmp," Lady Laura snorted in disgust. "No one ever takes my side. I am going to lie down." After Lady Laura went to lie down Colleen turned to Rene, "Thank you for helping to calm her down. "Do not misunderstand me, Lady Colleen," Rene admonished her. "I did not say what I said to take your side or to placate Lady Laura. That SwordMaster is dangerous and should not be taken lightly. He may be on our side now, but there is something about him that causes me concern." "He is a predator, Lady Colleen," Michele interjected. "Never turn your back on a predator." "I will keep that in mind. Thank you," Lady Colleen nodded. "You had better go after her." The two bodyguards bowed and followed after their charge. "I just hope we never become the prey," Lady Colleen shuddered and went to get lunch. ------- Aaron and Rac-Nur left the palace and headed back down to the lower city and the Central Quarter. Aaron stopped at the entrance to the seedy taproom and drew power from the area. After absorbing sufficient power they entered the 'Deathmark' taproom and Aaron directed Rac-Nur to a table by the rear. "I may have need of you," Aaron explained. "I may bring you to me if there is trouble." Rac-Nur nodded and crossed his arms, hands on the pommels of his swords. Aaron walked over to the bar, and slid his assassin's token across the bar top. The bartender picked up the token and placed it in a depression behind the bar. A section of the back wall slid open and Aaron entered a small entryway with a door on the opposite wall. Walking up to the door Aaron knocked three times. "Enter, Master Whiterune," Aaron heard from behind the door. Aaron entered the council room and nodded to the assembled masters. In attendance were Lords Gnola, Qatar, Elwes, and Remy. Lord Elwes was a human from the Southern Reaches, and newly appointed to the council. "Greetings, august lords," Aaron smiled. "I have decided to relocate west and was interested in purchasing a controlling interest in a floundering merchant house; one that finds itself low on funds and is either located in Malkur or has an office there. Would the 'council' know of a house that fits those requirements?" "Master Whiterune?" Lord Gnola admonished. "Is it not proper to show respect to the 'council'?" "Lord Gnola, I have nothing but the utmost respect for the 'council', and its members," Aaron replied with that feral grin. "I just no longer find myself in a subservient role." "And what role do you find yourself in?" Lord Elwes asked, leaning forward. "Non-competitive equals, my good lords," Aaron replied, cautiously placing his hand on Black Rose. "Lords, I did not come here to bicker. I came here because I respect this council's knowledge, and hoped to borrow from it. If I am in error, I apologize and will withdraw." Lord Gnola looked over toward Lord Remy and caught his eye, holding it for a moment; he then dropped his gaze and looked back toward Aaron. The whole exchange took no more than several heartbeats, yet it spoke volumes. The movement did not go unnoticed, but Aaron being somewhat preoccupied with the discussion and its direction, shrugged it off. He should not have. "Lord Whiterune, so quickly do you lose your patience," Lord Qatar replied gently, placing his hand on Lord Elwes arm. "Lord Elwes is new and is not familiar with your many talents. Of course we will aid a fellow entrepreneur." "There is such a house, Lord Whiterune," Lord Remy replied. "We have been worried about it, but with your involvement, I, at least, am sure it will be headed back into the black. It is a minor house by the name of De Ponce. It meets all of your requirements, however, its master, Carlos de Ponce may be difficult to convince." "Leave that to me," Aaron replied. "If he should befall a terrible accident, who would inherit the business?" "He has a young daughter, Anastasia," Lord Qatar entered the conversation. "The house is in debt to some of the larger merchant houses. Several gambling houses hold personal markers as well." "Well, my first order of business is to buy up all of the outstanding debt with the other houses," Aaron stated. "I will have a talk with the gambling houses as well, I want no markers surfacing after I assume control. Does the daughter have any other relatives?" "No, none at all. Perhaps she could have the same accident?" Lord Elwes interjected. "Contrary to popular opinion, Lord Elwes, I do not deliberately kill innocents," Aaron growled. "I have enough blood on my hands, without going there. No, at the very least, I would have myself declared her guardian." They provided him with a list of House De Ponce's creditors as well as the gambling markers. They outlined the house's activities as well as possible future growth with the right leadership. Aaron told them he intended to move the base of operations to Malkur and sell or rent out the house's holdings in Aithen. Lord Qatar recommended keeping the residence with a skeletal crew as well as the small warehouse, which could be rented out. Aaron concurred with the suggestion and after bidding the masters good afternoon, left the secret room and collected his token and Rac-Nur. Bidding the bartender good day they were off to the Merchant Quarter. Aaron had a list of the merchant houses that had extended credit to Carlos de Ponce, and he proceeded to visit each one. He quietly persuaded, or sometimes had to coerce, the house master at each stop to settle the debt for less than it was owed. Aaron explained the necessity of secrecy concerning his actions, and emphasized his displeasure if word leaked out and got back to House De Ponce. Aaron concluded that the Merchants were the true thieves in Aithen and stored that tidbit of information away. Gambling in Aithen was like any other town on Andor. There were the legitimate establishments, where one could wager on any number of games of chance, credit was neither asked for, nor offered. In the seedier sections of town, illegitimate gambling and the loaning of credit were big business and that was where Aaron was headed. Arriving at such an establishment, Aaron and Rac-Nur entered a small entry room, and were approached by two burly men, holding cudgels. "What is your business here?" the lead man asked, tapping his open palm with the club. "I wish to see the manager of this fine establishment," Aaron answered, seemingly unconcerned with the man's actions. "You will see my club, if you do not back your arse out of here right now," the bouncer threatened. On the club's next downward stroke, Red Rose flashed out and severed the wrist of the open hand, as Black Rose swept out and down, taking the club hand off at the wrist, as well. The man dropped to his knees screaming, as Black Rose flashed out again, and the bouncer's head went sailing backward into the room and bounced off the far wall, by a door. Rac-Nur pulled his swords and stared at the second bouncer, who dropped his club, and raised his hands up, backing away from Aaron. "Wrong answer," Aaron growled, turning toward the second man. "I wish to see the manager, take me to him." The bouncer opened and closed his mouth several times and finally just nodded backing up. Aaron took a moment and wiped his swords off on the shirt of the headless and hands-less body, and followed the bouncer down the short hallway. The man opened the door and led them down a hallway toward a second door. "If you lead me into a trap, you will die first," Aaron growled. The man swallowed and nodded, turning toward the door and knocked twice, paused, and knocked twice again. The door opened inward and Aaron shoved the bouncer against the door swinging it in hitting and knocking down the guard on the other side. Aaron stepped over the guard laid out on the floor and pushed the bouncer into the dimly lit gambling hall. The bouncer caught his balance and continued on toward a door at the rear flanked by two sword carrying guards. Approaching the door, the bouncer spoke to the guards. "He wants to speak to Master Telen," the bouncer pointed at Aaron. The guard to the right knocked on the door and when it opened another guard stepped out. Again, Aaron's desire to speak to the manager was conveyed, and the new guard bid them enter and escorted them to another man sitting behind a large oak desk, flanked by armed guards. "I want to buy up all of the markers you hold on Carlos de Ponce," Aaron explained. "I will give you 60 silver on the gold piece." (Normal rate of exchange is 100 to 1, whether it is copper to silver, or silver to gold, and Aaron was offering to pay a steep discount from that.) "Who are you to come barging into my place of business, kill one of my employees and then make unreasonable demands?" Master Telen exclaimed, standing up. "How about you give me 50 gold to cover my losses and I will let you live?" "So, we are negotiating, yes?" Aaron asked, flipping a token onto the desk. "There is my counter offer. Your life, and the lives of your men, for the markers at an exchange rate of 40 to 1?" Telen looked down at the thief's token and realized he was dealing with a high member of the Thieves' Guild. Being just a petty thief himself and not even a guild member, a Master Thief in his office worried him. This man could kill him and nobody would even care! "Milord, those terms are acceptable," he visibly gulped. Telen cautiously opened a desk drawer and removed an intricately carved key. Standing up and turning away from his desk, he bent down and inserted the key in a slot in the wall and turned it. A small section of the wall slid in and away revealing a safe, which Telen opened, removing a ledger and a box. Setting both on his desk and eyeing the token fearfully, he opened both the ledger and the box, turning several pages and read from an entry. Pulling several markers from the box he passed them and the token to the end of the table closest to Aaron. Aaron counted the markers and opened a bag of gold, placing the required amount on the desk. Putting the bag of coin away, he picked up both the markers and his token, and stepped back, away from the desk. "Who else holds markers?" Aaron asked. "Two other gambling houses, milord," Telen replied. "To help ease this misunderstanding, I would be honored to act as your agent." "Fine, you may keep anything better than 60 to 1," Aaron replied. "I will wait here. Tell them that this is a onetime offer. I will be displeased if he is extended credit again, and I will not be paying for any other markers." "Very good, milord," Telen smiled for the first time since meeting Aaron. "Please sit and be comfortable, I will have refreshments served while I take care of your business." Telen bowed and backed out of the room and was as good as his word. Wine, cheese, and bread were served while they waited. It was almost a full hour later when Telen returned to his office and handed over two bags of markers. Settling up with the gambler, who kept thanking Aaron over and over, they bid their goodbyes and left. Now that Aaron owned all of the outstanding debt he planned to call on Carlos de Ponce and see what kind of man he was. But before that, he wanted a letter of introduction from the Merchants' Guild, so he headed there first. The Merchants' Guild headquarters was located in the heart of the Merchant Quarter in the center of a roundabout. Beautiful manicured lawns and gardens in the front, the building itself was lavish in its own right; a grand edifice to the captains of industry. Aaron had never been in this building before, his previous dealings with the Merchant's Guild having always happened within the confines of the Guild Council. He walked into a large open foyer and made his way to a woman sitting behind a desk. His status as SwordMaster might make it easier for someone to recognize him, so he removed the cord from his hair and put it away. "May I help you?" she asked. "I would like to speak with Master Gerard," Aaron replied. "Do you have an appointment?" she countered, looking over at Rac-Nur nervously. "No, but he will see me when you hand him this," Aaron replied, passing over a rolled parchment. His royal introduction letter. "Very good sir," the receptionist replied, taking the scroll. "Please, have a seat. She pressed a button under her desk and a few moments later a young runner showed up. The receptionist handed him the scroll and after telling him where to take it, the runner turned and left. Aaron didn't have long to wait as he watched Master Gerard come out of a door across the foyer and hurry over toward the receptionist's desk grasping the scroll. Spotting Aaron, he veered over to where he was sitting. Spotting Rac-Nur, he stopped short. Master Gerard was about to speak when Aaron interrupted him. "Not here, Master Gerard, in your office, if you please?" Aaron smiled. Gerard looked around and then nervously nodded. He smiled weakly to the receptionist and led them away toward his office, where he offered them a seat and handed him back his royal papers. Aaron explained what he wanted, much to Master Gerard's relief, who thought that something must have been amiss for Aaron to show up unannounced, and with a dark elf by his side. Aaron also explained that he had taken the name of Whiterune, and expected to be introduced as such. After calming his nerves and several glances toward the dark elf, Master Gerard prepared a general letter of introduction and added an open line of credit as well. Aaron after seeing the credit line smiled and thanked the good master and left. Master Gerard dropped back into his hair and removed a bottle hidden in a desk drawer and poured himself a drink, sighing. House De Ponce had its headquarters in the Merchant Quarter on one of the side streets off the main boulevard. Arriving at the address, Aaron knocked and waited. The door was answered by a guild associate. "May I help you?" the associate asked, eyes going wide at the sight of the dark elf. "Yes, I have a business venture that I would like to discuss with Master Carlos." Aaron stated. "Is he available?" "I am Master de Ponce's personal assistant, Marcus," he replied. "May I ask the nature of this venture?" "It is a financial investment," Aaron replied, smiling. "Please, come in and follow me," Marcus smiled as well, holding the door open and gesturing them in. He led them through a foyer, similar to the grand foyer of the Merchants' Guild headquarters, but not nearly as lavish, and then down a hallway to a small anteroom with a door on the far wall. He asked them to wait and knocked and entered the door. A few moments later he returned and escorted them into Carlos de Ponce's office, where Carlos waited, sitting behind a desk. Master Carlos stood from his desk and reached out to shake Aaron's hand, which Aaron ignored. "I want to buy a controlling interest in your house," Aaron said. "Think of a reasonable number, and let me know what it is." "What? You cannot just come into my office making demands," Master Carlos exclaimed. "Marcus said you wanted to discuss a financial venture, what is this?" "Your house is losing money," Aaron replied, smiling. "You have made bad business decisions, as well as personal ones. You are heavily in debt, and basically just unlucky. I can make it successful again. You can stay on, but I will control the finances, and the direction in which the house grows." "I am not selling my house to you," Carlos replied. "I do not even know who you are." "I did not say you had to sell the whole enterprise, just a controlling interest," Aaron replied. "I am the man that will make House De Ponce successful again. I am the man that holds all of the debt markers; yours as well as those of your house. That is all you need to know." "I will make good on those markers, but I am not selling," Master Carlos replied firmly. "I recognize you now; you were the troubleshooter for the 'council'. I have valuable information that I can trade for those markers." Aaron did not hear the distinction of "council", versus "Council", as in "Guild Council", in Master Carlos' voice. If he had, he might have stayed and negotiated for the information. As it was, he was irritated that De Ponce took such a hard line on what Aaron thought was a good business proposition. He should have been paying better attention; first, with the 'council' itself, and now here with De Ponce. That was twice now, and you do not stay alive long with mistakes like that. "Yes, you are correct," Aaron replied angrily. "You have nothing of value that I want, other than your house." "I am not selling my house," Carlos replied firmly. "I thought you would be more reasonable," Aaron replied, again the irritation was obvious in his voice. "You have until this time tomorrow to make good on your markers. I will be back then." Aaron got up and Rac-Nur followed him out watching his back until they were out on the street. "Idiot!" Aaron spat. "I tried the non-violent way and that did not work. I was hoping it would not have to come to this, but he leaves me with no other option." They returned to the palace where, in keeping with their apparent status as hired help, they had an early dinner with the staff and retired. Aaron explained to Rac-Nur that he would be going out later and he wanted Rac-Nur to stay. ------- Chapter 8 Aaron waited until about midnight to make his night excursion. Throwing the hood of his cloak up and stepping into the shadows of his room, he shifted to the Shadow Realm. Travel through the Shadow Realm was different, since it was all line of sight. He didn't have to worry about doors, halls, streets or alleyways. Stairs were interesting though, because he had to consciously think about them or he couldn't climb. A swirling mist made navigation slow as he labored, breathing in and out the thick, moist air. He walked by guards on the Material plane who never knew he passed by. Walking through walls caused a weird sensation, like walking through a viscous barrier, with a slight resistance. The denizens of the realm trailed him at a respectful distance. His destination was the middle city, and the home of Carlos de Ponce. Something Lord Azrael said about the realm had given Aaron an idea on how best to deal with Master Carlos. Gaining access to the home was a simple matter of passing through the front door. The home of Carlos de Ponce was a two-story affair in the residential district of the middle city. Entering the foyer, Aaron passed two guards stationed at the bottom of the stairs. Paying them little mind, he concentrated on climbing to the second floor, where he found a hallway with several doors to each side and a double set at the end. Guessing that the double doors led to the master's chambers, he passed through the doors. Master De Ponce slept soundly in a large bed as Aaron concentrated and reached over and grasped him, pulling him into the Shadow Realm. Master Carlos awoke and screamed in terror as Aaron released him. Several wraiths and stalkers descended upon him sucking his life force from him. Carlos de Ponce died screaming and thrashing about in terror. His dead body lay at Aaron's feet, back arched, arms and legs flung out, muscles locked in death, a look of pure terror frozen on his face, eyes nearly popped from their sockets. Aaron grasped the body and removed his hood, shifting back to the Material plane. Aaron placed the body back in bed and for once didn't leave a rose on the body. It was more important that it looked as if De Ponce died of heart failure, or some other natural cause. Aaron searched the bed chamber for anything of value, and then pulled up his hood and shifted back to the Shadow Realm looking for any secret passages or hidey-holes. Having satisfied himself that none existed, Aaron left the room and headed back downstairs and to the office of the recently deceased Merchant Master. A search of the office turned up nothing useful so Aaron left and returned to the palace and his bed. Aaron and Rac-Nur were up early the next morning, working out at the practice arena under the watchful eye of the palace Swordmaster. Aaron and Rac-Nur sparred as a unit against crack fighters of the Royal Guard. The Swordmaster called a halt to the session after a grueling hour of combat. He bid Aaron and Rac-Nur a good morning, and then cracked the whip on the guard, who hadn't fared well against the pair. As they cooled down and washed, Aaron noticed Lady Laura, flanked by her two bodyguards, along with Lady Colleen, watching the practice. Smiling, he approached and bowed, sweeping his right arm back. "Good morning, Lady Laura, Lady Colleen," Aaron smiled, and stood. "What are your plans for this fine morning?" "I plan to do a little shopping," she smiled shyly. "Colleen will accompany me." "Will you require my assistance, fair lady?" Aaron asked. "I can accompany you, if you desire." "That won't be necessary, Master Whiterune," Lady Laura replied. "I have my bodyguards, and I plan to stay in the middle city." "Very well, Lady Laura," Aaron nodded, reaching into his cloak. "Please accept this enchanted gold piece. If you are ever in need, just hold it and I'll know that you require assistance. The King stressed to me the importance of keeping you safe, and I take my responsibilities seriously. Please be careful when you are outside of the palace." "My bodyguards will keep me safe, Master Whiterune," Lady Laura replied, a little hotly. "I have no need of magical items." "As you wish, my lady," Aaron bowed again, putting the coin away. "Have a fine day, shopping." Aaron and Rac-Nur withdrew, to their quarters to get cleaned up for the day. ------- "He thinks he's so important," Lady Laura exclaimed, exasperated. "Perhaps, my lady, he truly worries about your safety," Colleen explained. "Please, I have two of the best bodyguards in Malkur," Lady Laura replied. "Everyone knows Malkurian Guards are the best in the five realms." "I must disagree with you, my lady," Michele, one of her bodyguards interrupted. "Rene and I wouldn't last very long against him, and he was holding back. Those Royal Guards are some of the best and they have a few Malkurian Guards mixed in as well, and they didn't stand a chance against him. Add to that the dark elf, who was a first sword of his clan, and they would be an unstoppable force. Do not dismiss him, or his abilities. He will tip the scales in our advantage if we are attacked." "Are you saying that you are not the best?" Lady Laura asked, clearly disgusted. "My lady, please forgive me. In our line of work, only a fool doesn't recognize a skilled craftsman," Rene explained. "I don't believe there is anyone in Malkur that could take him, one-on-one." "Maybe not two-on-one," Michele added. "And remember, my lady, he was holding back. He will make an excellent addition." "Fine! I'll try to be nicer to him," Lady Laura conceded. "Now, can we please go shopping?" ------- There was a messenger from the Merchants' Guild waiting for Aaron when he returned to his quarters. The Guildmaster requested his presence at the guildhall, as soon as it was convenient for Master Whiterune. Aaron sent a response back that he would be there within an hour. Aaron and Rac-Nur dressed and left for the lower city and the Merchants' Guild. Before entering the Guild Quarter, Aaron brought Rac-Nur to the Merchant Quarter and stopped in front of the 'Golden Pony'. He told Rac-Nur that if they were ever separated, or if Rac-Nur was ever in need that he should come to the 'Golden Pony' and seek out the innkeeper Raymond. He was to tell Raymond who he was and his relationship to Aaron. As proof of his claims he was to give Raymond one of Aaron's engraved gold coins with the crossed roses on it. Rac-Nur nodded in understanding and took the coin and put it away. They left the Merchant Quarter and headed over to the Guild Quarter and the home of the Merchants' Guild. When they arrived at the guild, they were escorted into the Guildmaster's office, where they met with Master Gerard and Marcus, the assistant to the late Master Carlos. "Master Whiterune, so good of you to come on such short notice," Master Gerard began. "You remember Marcus, assistant to Master Carlos de Ponce? I wanted to be the first to tell you that Master Carlos died in his sleep last night, leaving no heirs of majority age." "So, what does that mean in regards to my bid of ownership, or the debt credits I hold?" Aaron asked. "The estate must make good on all outstanding debts," Master Gerard replied. "Unfortunately, there is insufficient capital or assets to cover the debts. The Guild Council will meet today to determine the best course of action. I wanted to talk to you first, so your desires could be brought before the Council. What are your desires, milord?" "I would trade the markers for a majority portion in the house," Aaron replied smiling. "I understand the late Master Carlos has a daughter, I intend for the rest of the portions to be hers." "Master Whiterune, you potentially hold enough markers to own the house outright," Master Gerard stated. "There would be no reason to divide the assets with his minor child." "Nevertheless, those are my wishes," Aaron replied. "She will have a minority stake in her father's house. The exact split can be determined by the Council. Something along the lines of 60:40 or so would be sufficient, I think." "Very well, milord," Master Gerard nodded, smiling. "A most generous offer! I will convey your wishes to the Council." "What of me, Master Whiterune?" Marcus asked. "I have been loyal to House De Ponce, even to the point of disagreeing repeatedly with Master de Ponce over his gambling and poor investments. I could be of service in this period of transition." "I will keep you on for a trial period," Aaron replied. "If you prove valuable to me, then more permanent arrangements will be made. But know this, if you cheat me, your life will be forfeit." "Those terms will be acceptable to me," Marcus replied. "I will not cheat you, or advise you poorly." "Master Whiterune, will you change the name of the house?" Master Gerard asked. "Yes. I intend to call it De la Rose," Aaron replied. "I also intend to move its headquarters to Malkur, but will maintain the holdings here." After going over the worth of the house and how much debt Aaron held, Master Gerard thanked them for coming in. He then called a meeting of the Merchants' Guild leadership, to discuss the transfer of ownership, before the Council meeting. They agreed to wait until the final outcome of the Council meeting before going through the books. Aaron told Marcus he would stop by later and pay his respects to Miss Anastasia. Aaron and Rac-Nur left the guildhall. Aaron and Rac-Nur left the guildhall and travelled up to the middle city, where they spotted Lady Laura and her entourage leaving a dress shop. Aaron was on his way to intercept her, when he noticed two men paying the shopping group entirely too much attention. Nudging Rac-Nur, Aaron faded back into the crowd and observed the observers. Aaron's tracking skills, developed and honed during his time as a Ranger, served him well on the crowded streets of the shop district. The two men were tailing Lady Laura's group at a respectful distance, Aaron noted. Aaron also noticed that while the bodyguards were attentive to the area immediately around Lady Laura, their tunnel vision hampered their overall effectiveness. His old tracking master called it, "Not seeing the forest for the trees." And it definitely applied to this situation. Aaron waited to see what the men were up to, and put himself in a position to intercede if they tried to attack Lady Laura's group. Their demeanor suggested a reconnaissance mission instead of a tactical engagement. The problem with tailing them was Rac-Nur stood out like a sore thumb. If the two men got a look at him, Aaron was afraid they would break off before he could determine their true intentions. The men continued to watch and trail the group as they went in and out of several different stops. Aaron and Rac-Nur continued to watch the two men. Aaron was also on the lookout for any additional watchers and could find none. Eventually, Lady Laura's group finished shopping and made their way to the upper city and the palace. The two men broke off the tail when the group entered the palace grounds. Aaron was worried that the men didn't leave anyone to watch the palace, so he concluded that they must have "eyes" inside the palace watching her. Aaron motioned for Rac-Nur to return to the palace and protect Lady Laura at all costs, while he would go and find out more about the men, and their intentions. Rac-Nur nodded his understanding and Aaron turned and followed the two men out of the upper city. As soon as it was feasibly possible, Aaron stepped into the shadow of a nearby building, pulled up his hood and shifted to the Shadow Realm. Smiling a feral grin, he closed the distance considerably and trailed the men out of the middle city and into the lower city, towards the Central Quarter. ------- Rac-Nur entered the palace and followed the group to the south wing and the guest quarters. Lady Laura and entourage entered her private quarters, while Rac-Nur took up station just outside the door. A few moments later Lady Laura opened the door to leave, finding her way blocked by Rac-Nur. "Step aside, I have somewhere to go," she commanded the dark elf. He just continued to stare at her which enflamed her anger, "I said, STEP ASIDE!" "Shoc-Ti said you should wait inside until he returns," Rac-Nur explained. "You were followed while shopping. He is finding out why, Do what he says, he protects your life. Stay inside until he tells you different." "Ooh, I have never... ," she sputtered and then screamed, unable to utter an intelligent word. She slammed the door and Rac-Nur placed his hand, palm out against the door knob. A brief spark and flash of magic, and the knob was fused shut. He turned and faced the hall, with a small smile on his face. ------- The only downside to the Shadow Realm was that noises, including voices, didn't carry over from the Material Plane. Aaron needed to find an inconspicuous place to cross back over to the Material Plane, when the men entered a rundown taproom. Entering the taproom himself, he made his way to the back corner and pulled off his cloak hood, shifting back to the Material Plane. Slowly staggering toward the front, he spied the men sitting at a table with a third man and abruptly fell into a chair at a nearby table, trying to listen in on the conversation. He couldn't make out the features of the third man because of the hooded cloak he wore, but Aaron was able to hear the conversation. "And you're sure she wasn't being followed by anyone?" the mystery man asked. "No, milord," replied one of the men, possibly the leader. "We followed her throughout the middle city, in and out of various shops. The bodyguards were with her at all times. It would be difficult to abduct her with them around." "That's not your concern," replied the mystery man. "I wanted to know if anyone else followed or watched her." "No, milord, only us," the leader replied. "There is going to be a farewell party in her honor the day after tomorrow. Her schedule has her leaving in three days. I want her followed and her actions reported to me, daily. I want to know if anyone else is involved with her protection." "Milord, our source in the palace reports that a Swordmaster from the Fighters' Guild has been assigned to her as well," the leader reported. "This Swordmaster has a dark elf in his employ." "That may make things difficult, but not impossible," the mystery man replied. "With her guard dealt with by the orcs we expected some form of additional protection to be provided." "We are set to take her on the third day out from Aithen," he explained. "There will be no inns in that area, so they will have to camp off the highway. We'll attack at dawn, secure her and be on our way." "When she leaves Aithen, I want you around her somehow," he ordered, handing over a small pouch. "It will be easier if they travel with a caravan or train. Make sure you are a part of any caravan." "Yes, milord," the leader smiled, taking the pouch. "Very good, milord." "Now, get back up there and keep watch," the mystery man ordered, getting up. The men nodded, finished their drinks and left. The mystery man left as well. Aaron waited a few moments and then followed the mystery man out of the taproom. The last thing Aaron felt was an explosion of pain and then darkness. When Aaron groggily came to, he was lying on the ground. His hands and arms were tied behind his back, and his feet were tied together as well. More importantly, both swords were missing! He kept his eyes shut, trying to discern where he was. "Who are you, and why were you eavesdropping on my conversation?" he heard. Trying to act still out of it, which wasn't too far from the truth, he began pulling Eldritch to him, which helped to clear his head faster. "Black Rose, Red Rose, where are you?" he mentally called out. "We are close by, My Lord," both swords acknowledged him. "We are unharmed." "You are unharmed?" Aaron replied disgustedly. "What about me, I thought you wouldn't allow harm to come to me, either by action or inaction?" "You were not harmed, My Lord," Black Rose replied. "It is a small lump on your head; we thought it was more important for you to know who this human was." "Next time, bring me into the discussion," Aaron replied, and then groaned aloud when he was kicked. "I asked who you were." Aaron heard again. "I won't ask again." "Just a guardsman, enjoying a day off," Aaron replied slowly. "What happened to me? Why am I tied up?" Fortunately, Aaron had had the presence of mind to remove his Swordmaster's cord before he went to visit the Merchant's Guild. He was required by guild law to display it at all times but he didn't want to intimidate anyone when he went to visit Master Gerard. "Very nice swords for a guardsman," Aaron heard behind him. "What about the other weapons you have? Seems more fitting for a thief, or assassin, then a guardsman?" "Sometimes a guardsman has to be all of those things," Aaron replied, fully awake and head injury healed. "The swords have been handed down through my family. Will you untie me now?" "Who do you work for?" Aaron heard. "A minor merchant house," Aaron replied. "House de Ponce." "A pity that you were in the wrong place at the wrong time," Aaron heard, closer now. Aaron let the Eldritch course through his body, strengthening muscles and prepared himself for his next course of action. Concentrating on his bonds and using his magic, he dissolved them into nothingness and leaped up and away from the voice. "Black Rose, Red Rose, to me," Aaron projected mentally, holding out his hands, and turning toward his captor. The swords appeared in his hands, bluish flames flickering up and down their blades. Aaron's captor drew his sword and attacked. Aaron blocked the attack with Red Rose, and cut him on the cheek with Black Rose. "You should have killed me when you had the chance," Aaron remarked, sweeping Black Rose down across his attacker's right kneecap, splitting it open. The man fell to the opposite knee, keeping his sword pointed at Aaron. Aaron knocked the sword aside with Red Rose and cut him across his right bicep severing the muscle. The man dropped his sword and grabbed his arm, trying to stop the flow of blood. "Now, none of your wounds are life threatening, yet," Aaron brought Black Rose's tip in front of the man's face. "Tell me why you are having the Malkurian Duchess followed, and who you are working for?" The man looked straight at Aaron, "I have nothing to say." "Pity," Aaron replied, plunging Black Rose into his heart. Black Rose drank deep and consumed his soul, passing on some of the power to Aaron. Aaron pushed the body over with his foot and searched it. Aaron's search of the man turned up a thief's token, though not from Aithen, some coin, mostly silver, and a map. The map was the most interesting discovery. It showed the caravan route from Aithen to Malkur, as well as several proposed ambush sites, based on travel times. More importantly, it showed the escape route from the ambush site to a small city-state northwest of Malkur, called Creton. Aaron searched the room and building he was in. Turned out he was in a small warehouse in the Central District. His swords explained that the man knocked Aaron out and made it look as if Aaron was drunk, and brought him to the warehouse. There was a cot, a small brazier for cooking, and various sundries for day to day living. On a nearby table were Aaron's things: cloak, armor, daggers, etc. Aaron collected his possessions and got dressed. Afterward, he walked over to the dead body, removed a black rose from his sack and dropped it on the remains. He then left the warehouse and the Central District and decided to see Master Drexil and find out more about this thief's token. Aaron arrived at the Thieves' Guild headquarters and was ushered into Master Drexil's office. Drexil confirmed what Aaron had already deduced; that the token was from the guild in Creton. Aaron learned all that Drexil knew of the guild, and then bid him good day and left. Aaron was a mess, and in no condition to call upon young Anastasia de Ponce. His clothes were filthy and there was blood on them. He stank and he needed a bath. He decided to return to the palace and get cleaned up and then visit his new business partner. He didn't realize he was about to step into a fire storm! Aaron returned to the palace and was immediately met by Walton, who seemed to have been waiting at the gates for him. Walton began leading him to the south wing guest quarters. "You're a mess," Walton looked him up and down. "Where have you been?" "Investigating," Aaron replied. "Why, is something wrong?" "Yes, something is wrong," Walton replied, clearly exasperated. "Your servant is preventing Lady Laura from leaving her quarters. The entire wing knows that your servant is preventing her from leaving. I suspect Realto may have heard the screaming." "I told him to do that," Aaron replied, hearing screaming from up ahead. They rounded the corner of the hallway and there was Rac-Nur, swords out and at the ready, partially surrounded by royal guardsmen. He was standing in front of the door to Lady Laura's private quarters. The screaming was coming from behind the door. "Stand aside, guardsmen," Aaron commanded with a growl, pulling his swords and drawing power. "Now!" The guards turned and backed away from Aaron, lowering their weapons. Aaron nodded at Rac-Nur, who sheathed his weapons and stepped away from the door. Aaron sheathed Red Rose and put his hand on the knob. He tried to turn it and realized it was jammed and wouldn't budge. Looking at Rac-Nur with a brief smile and arch of his brow, Aaron turned back to the handle and concentrated pushing magic into the mechanism. The mechanism melted away and Aaron opened the door and stepped into chaos. Dodging a thrown glass, he pushed out with Eldritch knocking everyone to the ground, sheathed Black Rose and called out to Walton. "I have everything under control," Aaron shouted. "Dismiss the guards." "Everyone out of this room, except Lady Laura," Aaron growled, putting on his most menacing mask. "Now!" The bodyguards stood and looked at Aaron, then at Lady Laura, and then back at Aaron. They shook their heads and left the room. Lady Colleen stood and was about to speak, when she looked at Aaron, dropped her head and fled the room. A sweep of his hand, and the door slammed behind them. Aaron turned and stared at Lady Laura. She stared back defiantly, and then dropped her gaze. "Someone should have paddled your backside, a long time ago," He growled. "If you give me any more trouble, I will make up for lost time." "Your temper tantrum is highly unbecoming of a young woman of your upbringing and status," Aaron smiled. "You will be Silent, and let me explain." Aaron let magic flow into the word 'silent'. "Before you get upset, hear me out," Aaron continued, holding up a hand as if to forestall any outburst. "We saw you in the shop district this afternoon. I had planned to see if you needed any assistance, when I noticed two men following you. I followed them instead and found out there was, probably still is, a plot to abduct you to the Duchy of Creton." "I sent Rac-Nur to safeguard you, and then followed the men that followed you," Aaron explained. "Now, I know he is a little rigid in his direction following, but I'm sure he explained that I feared for your safety." "Now that I have had my say," Aaron smiled, again, "you may Speak. Aaron let magic flow into the word 'speak'. "What did you do to me?" Lady Laura whispered, shock still on her face. "I was unable to speak." "Nothing, Your Highness," Aaron replied. "Must have been the force of my words. Are there going to be any more outbursts?" "I want to go home," she started crying. "You're being mean to me." "I'm trying to protect you," Aaron replied. "There are people trying to kidnap you, at the very least. Do you want to spend the rest of your life as a slave to some cruel master, or as a pawn to hurt your father? You have to help me by listening and obeying me when your safety is in question. Truce?" "Truce," she quietly replied. The realization of her possible fate at the hands of abductors sobered her fast. She would die before she became some man's plaything, or worse, a bargaining chip to hurt her father, who she truly loved. She saw Aaron in a new light, not as an adversary, trying to restrict her because he could, but as her protector, her knight in shining armor. He didn't wear armor of course, that would look silly, she smiled trying to suppress a giggle. "I'll send in Lady Colleen and your bodyguards," Aaron smiled back and bowed. "I'll leave Rac-Nur stationed outside your door. I'll see you later this evening, for dinner?" "Yes, I'd like that," Lady Laura smiled coyly, realizing also that he was very handsome. "Good afternoon, Your Highness," Aaron bowed again, turned and opened the door and left. "You may go in now," Aaron told the bodyguards and Lady Colleen. "Chamberlain, the door mechanism will have to be repaired," Aaron smiled. "Rac-Nur, stay stationed at the door. Let her come and go but stay with her." Rac-Nur nodded and resumed his position, while Aaron smiled at Walton and left to bathe and change clothes. Aaron dressed in what he considered his finery, well, working finery. Black shirt trimmed with silver, with the same collar and back sheaths as his regular shirts. His pants were steel grey and bloused in brushed leather boots. His left arm encased in a glove the same color and trim as the shirt and his right glove tucked in his sword belt. His sheaths still contained daggers and both swords rode on his hips. Hair tied back with the Swordmaster's cord. An elegant yet functional look. After checking on Rac-Nur one more time, Aaron left the palace and the upper city. His destination was the middle city and the home of Anastasia de Ponce. Arriving at the De Ponce residence, Aaron knocked on the door and waited. Presently the door was opened by an elderly gentleman. "Good afternoon, milord," the butler greeted Aaron with a bow. "Please come in. My name is Stefan." Aaron followed the butler inside and down a short hallway to a set of double doors. Opening the doors, he led Aaron into a study. "Milord, please make yourself at home, refreshments are on the sidebar," the butler, pointed. "Master Marcus and Miss Anastasia will be with you momentarily." "Thank you, Stefan," Aaron replied, heading for the sidebar and the bottle of Gnomish. He poured himself a glass of whisky and looked around the room. The centerpiece of the room was a large oak desk and bookshelves. Aaron chose the leather couch, which gave him a side view of the door, and sat down to wait. There was a knock at the door and Marcus entered and bowed to Aaron, who stood. "Master Whiterune, may I present Miss Anastasia de Ponce," Marcus announced. A young girl entered and curtsied to Aaron. He guessed her age at around Micah's, fourteen or so. She was a true brunette, with a dark complexion and shoulder length brown hair, with ringlets on the side and curled forward in the back, bouncing as she walked. She was tall for a girl, close to Aaron's height, dressed in a full length black gown, and wearing a short black veil. The swell of budding breasts accentuated a lithe frame. All in all, a very pretty young thing, with the potential to be beautiful in just a few short years. Aaron stood and bowed to her and waved her to a seat on the couch. "Pleased to meet you," Aaron smiled. "Please, sit down. First, I'd like to express my sympathies over your loss. I only met your father once, but I understand he cared for you a great deal. I also want you to know that I intend, with your help, to make House De Ponce great again." "How am I going to help?" she asked. "By studying, learning your lessons," Aaron explained. "I will be traveling a lot. I need you to be mistress of the house. The day to day running of the household would be your responsibility. Is that acceptable?" "Yes, I want to help," Anastasia replied. "Marcus said we might be moving?" "I think a change of scenery, would be best," Aaron nodded. "It will help with our image. We would be closer to the main flow of merchandise. Would moving to Malkur be a problem?" "Oh no, no problem at all," she replied. "I've just never been there." "Neither have I," Aaron smiled. "It will be a new adventure for both of us." "I want you to review the house staff and decide who goes and who stays," Aaron explained. "We'll keep this property for when we come to court." "To court?" Anastasia asked. "Are you a member of the court?" "Yes, and by extension so are you," Aaron replied. "But, we will talk more on that later. I know that the timing is short and you haven't had a chance to even bury your father, but I do need to move forward. Please, don't take my planning as a slight on your father's memory. I know you'll need time to mourn." "Marcus, does Anastasia have a bodyguard?" Aaron turned to the assistant. "No, milord, it wasn't necessary in the past," Marcus replied. "Should I inquire about one?" "No, that won't be necessary, I have someone in mind," Aaron replied, and turned back to Anastasia. "I have to leave for Malkur in three days, you are welcome to accompany me, or you could stay and wait until I procure a residence. It is your choice, either way." "Truthfully, in my father's eyes, I was just another piece of merchandise to further his ambitions," Anastasia replied. "I'd like to accompany you, when you leave. We can use that time to get better acquainted. I appreciate your concern for my feelings." "Marcus has arranged the funeral for tomorrow," she sighed. "Will you attend with me?" "Yes, I will attend his funeral," Aaron replied, and then looked to his assistant. "Marcus, we will leave in three days. I'll set up funds with the Merchants' Guild that you'll be able to access for the day-to-day operations." "Anastasia, after we get settled, I'll open a separate account for the household," Aaron turned back to Anastasia. "There is a royal ball the day after tomorrow. I know it's short notice and the day after the funeral, but, would you like to attend?" "A ball? A royal ball?" she squeaked. "I have nothing to wear." "I'll tell you what," Aaron explained. "How about I have someone here, tomorrow morning, to help with that? This person knows everything to know about clothes shopping. Would that be alright?" "Yes, who?" Anastasia asked. "A surprise," Aaron responded. "If that is everything, I need to spend time with Marcus." Anastasia stood and curtseyed to Aaron and left the study, closing the door behind her. Aaron stayed and talked with Marcus for awhile; discussing the move, some ideas for business ventures, etc. Aaron left the De Ponce house feeling better about Marcus. He planned to groom Anastasia to eventually take over the day-to-day running of the business. Speaking of Anastasia, he also needed to talk to Rac-Nur about her. He really didn't need or want a bodyguard, but Anastasia would. He would see how the dark elf felt about that. Being her bodyguard would be better than maintaining the household. If he laid it out like that, he was sure Rac-Nur would take the job of bodyguard over that of butler, which brought out a chuckle. Honestly, his initial plan was just for a place to come home to, so he could stop living at inns and taverns. His life had become a lot more complicated and filled with more people that he now felt responsible for. It was certainly easier when all he had to worry about was himself. He needed to stop this melancholy self-reflection and start paying more attention to the here and now. The fact that someone had gotten the drop on him wasn't forgotten in the least. He had started to rely too much on the swords for that, and he needed to take that back upon himself. He mentally shook his head and headed back to the palace. He wanted to broach the shopping idea to Lady Laura, find out who the informant was, sell Rac-Nur on his new role, and he needed to talk to Walton and his uncle about the Marquis title and Anastasia. He had a lot on his plate. ------- Chapter 9 Lady Laura's enthusiasm surprised Aaron when he broached the subject of taking Anastasia dress shopping with her. She wanted to know all about her, how they knew each other, etc. After finding out that she was Aaron's ward, she seemed even more excited for some reason. Not one to understand women, Aaron did not dwell on it. Not surprisingly, Rac-Nur preferred being bodyguard to the young charge as well. The discussion with Walton and the King lasted into the night. The Guild Council had approved his takeover and asset split. The King presented Aaron with the title of Marquis de la Rose and the land surrounding the old castle in the Thangdaemon forest as his march, which was perfect, since the land was legitimately on the border of the kingdom. The King sent a dispatch to Realto to expand their patrols to include the area surrounding the castle. Aaron would have to make other arrangements in the near future. Perhaps a garrison within the castle as an outpost for Realto. Aaron put that on his mental list to discuss with Marcus. He could hire guardsmen and station them there. The grounds and barracks were large enough to house an entire company, including support craftsman, and their families. Aaron just gained an army! The next morning, after breakfast, the shopping troop left the palace for Anastasia's residence in the middle city. Arriving at the door, Aaron knocked and waited. Stefan opened the door and greeted them. "Good morning milord," Stefan stepped back, holding the door. "Miss Anastasia is waiting in the sitting room." "Very good, Stefan," Aaron smiled. "Lead on." Stefan closed the door and led them into the sitting room. Aaron noticed that the decor was definitely feminine. "Miss Anastasia," Stefan announced. "Lord Whiterune and company." Aaron and the shopping group entered the sitting room. "Lady Anastasia, may I present Her Highness, Lady Laura Ragnarak, Duchess of Malkur," Aaron announced. "Lady Laura, I have the pleasure of presenting, Lady Anastasia de Ponce, Marquise de la Rose," Aaron bowed, sweeping his arm back. "Your Highness," Anastasia curtseyed. "Please, you do not need to curtsey," Lady Laura stepped forward and grasped both of Anastasia's hands. "Your guardian may not have told you, but he is the adopted son of the Duke of Realto and nephew of the King of Aithen. I should be curtseying to you. Come we have shopping to do." "When did you find out about that?" Aaron asked. "I have my resources as well," Lady Laura smiled, "although, I should be mad at both you and the King for leading me on like that." "He was concerned about your safety and looked to me for help," Aaron shrugged. "He thought it better that you were unaware of his and my connection. You will get to Malkur safely with me involved." "Anastasia, this is Rac-Nur," Aaron turned to her and introduced the dark elf. "He will be with you at all times now, and is responsible for your safety." Anastasia smiled at Rac-Nur and nodded to Aaron. Aaron explained that he had business to attend to and would not be accompanying them on their excursion. If his business finished up early he would look for them in the shop district of the middle city, if not, then he would meet them back at Anastasia's home, two hours before the funeral. He handed Stefan his clothes and handed a pouch of gold to Anastasia and told her to have fun. He bid Lady Laura, and now Lady Anastasia, a good morning and left. Aaron dropped down into the lower city and the Guild Quarter and made his way to the home of the Fighters' Guild. Aaron was contracting long term for a company of men; eight full squads, plus support and tradesmen. The Guild would, for a nominal fee, take care of all of Aaron's needs, including tailoring a specific livery of Aaron's own design if needed. Aaron described the bounding hart heraldry of the House of Whiterune and left a significant amount of gold to start the proceedings. He would return in a day to interview prospective officers and sergeants for the company. Satisfied with the results of his business with the Fighters' Guild, Aaron left the guild and proceeded to his next stop. Arriving at the Merchants' Guild, he set up an operational account with sufficient funds for the house. He also made inquiries about property in Malkur. The guild would pass on his requirements to Malkur where the guild there would locate prospective properties for review when he arrived. Aaron had only one stop left to make in the lower city, and proceeded to the Central Quarter and the 'Deathmark' taproom. Entering the taproom and heading to the bar, Aaron passed his token across to the bartender, who placed it in a small recessed area under the bar. A small section of the back wall slid in and out of the way, exposing a small anteroom. Aaron entered the room and waited for the wall to close behind him then, instead of making the traditional three knocks, Aaron simply opened the door. Stepping into the council room, Aaron acknowledged the members in attendance. "Lord Whiterune, how may we be of service?" Lord Gnola asked. "Lords, are you aware of a plot to abduct the daughter of the Duke of Malkur?" Aaron asked. "I ask, because she is now under my protection." "To use your own words, Lord Whiterune," Lord Elwes replied. "Contrary to popular opinion, we are not behind every nefarious plot in the five realms." "I did not ask if you were behind it, Lord Elwes," Aaron replied, irritation obvious in his tone. "I asked if you were aware of it. So, that would be a no?" "We are not aware of, nor have we sanctioned, any plot to abduct the Duke of Malkur's daughter," Lord Qatar replied. "Well, that is disturbing," Aaron remarked. "But, also a relief." "We understand that you are now the proud owner of a merchant house," Lord Remy acknowledged, "without having to use your talents. We understand Master de Ponce died in his sleep?" "Yes, that is what I understand as well," Aaron nodded. "My plan to move is on schedule. All that is needed now is to solicit clients." "We can steer clients in your direction, if that is acceptable," Lord Qatar replied. "Perhaps you would be willing to provide a discreet service for a more discerning clientele?" While there was not a black market trade in the five realms per se, certain items were inherently restricted in availability; one-step cobra venom, for example, as well as the venom from its northern cousin, the Wobra, or winged cobra. Various alchemistic ingredients, as well as sorcery potion ingredients, were difficult to come by as well. Most of the former were restricted simply due to the risk of procurement and/or transportation. However, there could be a lucrative business in the acquisition, handling, shipping and selling of these highly dangerous, yet sought after, items. "I was thinking along the lines of rare or hard to come by items, both procurement and shipping," Aaron explained. "Items, that the end user would normally either have to obtain for themselves, or pay someone else a significant finder's fee to obtain for them." "Yes, I believe we were thinking along those same lines," Lord Gnola smiled, clapping his hands together. "After your transition to Malkur is complete, we will contact you with a list of names and articles to obtain." "That would be most acceptable," Aaron replied. "What would be your fee?" "Our fee?" Lord Qatar asked. "You misunderstand, Lord Whiterune. We would require no fee. One does not charge equals. Perhaps at some point in the future we might make use of your services, in some manner? An exchange of talents, if you will." "Alright," Aaron replied slowly. "I think those terms would be acceptable." "Very good, Lord Whiterune," Lord Remy replied. "Is there anything further?" "No, thank you for your time and trouble," Aaron replied. "Good day, lords." Aaron turned and stepped through the door and closed it. A moment later, the passage through the wall opened and Aaron stepped back into the taproom and retrieved his token from the bartender. After enjoying a glass of Gnomish, Aaron left the 'Deathmark' and headed back to the Guild Quarter. Aaron's meeting with the 'council' started him thinking about his plan and the type of individuals he would need. Those individuals would need a particular skill set to acquire the items Aaron's clientele would desire. And he knew just the place to look. ------- Tanith's patience was wearing thin. Not content with being cooped up after such a long time in hibernation, she needed an activity, an outlet. She was good with weapons, yet being a fighter held no passion for her. She liked 'things', baubles, pretty trinkets, expensive things. She finally came to the conclusion that she was bored and needed excitement. Leaving the inn, she had a destination in mind and went to search it out. Unlike most guildhalls, the Thieves' Guild was not open to the general public. If you wanted something enchanted, you went to the Sorcerers' Guild. Likewise, if you wanted a specific type or piece of armor, or specialized weapon, you went to the Armorers' Guild. You did not just go to the Thieves' Guild unless you were a thief or wanted to become a thief. Finding the guild was one thing, entering was quite another. Entrance to the guild was a test. If you could not get in, you did not belong in. It took Tanith several hours to identify the home of the Thieves' Guild. It was located amongst a row of tenement homes in the lower city and looked like a rundown abandoned building. Tanith discreetly searched the building for an entrance, and then the entrance for traps. She might not be specifically trained for thievery, but she was naturally cautious and had the 'true-sight'. 'True-sight' was the ability to see things as they truly were, and using it she could sense the different traps, tripwires, and finally the trip mechanism for the door itself. Satisfying herself that there were no additional traps, she gently opened the door with her parrying dagger and looked around the threshold and interior and then entered the local home of the Thieves. The door opened to a large reception area where an elderly gentleman sat behind a desk. The room was square with doors at all of the cardinal points. Walking up to the man she smiled. "I wish to test to join the guild," she remarked matter-of-factly. "Other than the ability to enter, any qualifications?" he asked, nonplussed. "You do not look like the type to join this guild, if you get my meaning, miss?" "Nevertheless, I would like to join the guild," she replied bluntly. "I have no formal training, but I have enough innate ability that I believe I could be useful." "Yes, miss, that is what they all say," he replied. "You would be admitted as an apprentice, and would train for advancement from there." "I would like the opportunity to test for journeyman," Tantih growled menacingly. "I am sure that I would pass." "That is highly unlikely," he replied, shaking his head. "It takes several years to acquire the necessary skill to pass the test to be a full-fledged member." "How about I just kill you now, and then find someone else to assist me?" Tanith smiled, causing the man an involuntary shudder. "Well, you got spunk, that is for sure," he laughed. "Just follow that door to your left there." "Thank you," Tanith replied abruptly, and then turned toward the door. "Humans!" Tanith returned to the reception room several strenuous and grueling hours later, holding a thief's token from Malkur. "I wish to make myself available for any contract work," she told the man behind the desk. "I will check back tomorrow." Smiling at the man seated there, she left quite satisfied with her achievement. ------- Aaron returned to the Guild Quarter and to the Thieves' Guild, where he talked with Master Drexil about recruiting able bodies for his business idea. The meeting lasted several hours, after which Aaron had a list of possible candidates. Master Drexil promised to communicate with his counterpart in Malkur, concerning Aaron's desires. Aaron left the lower city and returned to the middle city, looking for Lady Laura and his ward. Searching the shop district for Lady Laura and Lady Anastasia proved fruitless. They were nowhere to be found and Aaron did not feel like enough time had transpired for them to have been finished. He checked with several dress shop owners and they had been in, but no one knew where they were heading. Aaron returned to the residence and Stefan had not seen them since they left earlier that morning. In his arrogance, Aaron had let his guard down; he thought that the city provided sufficient protection. Once again he had been lulled into complacency and it may very well have cost him dearly this time. "Damn, I am stupid," he thought. "I should have forced that coin on Laura, and provided one for Anastasia as well." A discussion with his swords provided no help. They had no specific ability to detect them. The swords apparently took little notice of most beings. There were specific entities that they were aware of, or in the case of the Thangdaemons, had trained themselves to be aware of, other than that, most beings were beneath them. Aaron was at a loss as to what to do, so he did the only thing he could think of, he began to track their movements through the shop district and the middle city. An hour later he came upon a dead end. They had been in the dress shop just up the street and yet no one had seen them since. He checked with both the upper and lower gates and they hadn't passed through either. Aaron was running out of ideas, so he returned to the spot just down the street from where they were last seen. "Black Rose, can you or Red Rose detect magic?" Aaron asked, "specifically the recent use or residue of, magic?" "Yes, My Lord, I have that ability," Red Rose responded. "Magic was used here recently, its presence has not yet dissipated. Goblin magic, My Lord." "Goblin magic?" Aaron replied. "I do not understand? What would goblin wizards be doing in this part of the city?" "It is goblin magic, My Lord," Red Rose insisted. "Its trace leads down that alleyway." The sword pulled Aaron toward an alley. Pulling both swords, Aaron allowed Red Rose to lead him down the alleyway, which dead ended at the upper city wall. Looking around, Aaron found nothing, yet Red Rose sensed that goblin magic had been used in this area, and recently. Well, the alley was a dead end; what now? Then he had an idea and backtracked out of the alley and down into the lower city and the Central Quarter. Entering the Central Quarter, Aaron looked around, stepped into the shadow of a nearby building and pulled up the hood of his cloak. Shifting into the Shadow Realm he made his way to a certain rundown warehouse and entered. The warehouse was empty, the dead body removed. No trace of anyone ever staying there remained. Another dead end. Aaron removed his hood and shifted back to the Material plane and searched the building top to bottom, nothing remained. Now Aaron was out of options! And then he remembered the scrying stone! But did it actually work? The sack produced perfect roses, exactly how Aaron envisioned them, but could it create an actual working magical item? Aaron reached into his cloak and removed the bag of holding. Reaching into the bag he removed the scrying stone and placed the bag back in his cloak. Holding the stone in his hand, he began to draw power from the surrounding area. Aaron began to slowly pump Eldritch into the stone and concentrated on Rac-Nur. He chose the Dark Elf because of their time together. Aaron figured he had a better sense of the Dark Elf than any of the women. The stone had some small ability, but Aaron's added power coupled with his almost desperate need to locate his companions transformed the stone into the magical device Aaron desired. Unfortunately, it also caused a rather large beacon to anyone looking for the use of Eldritch. The stone began to glow as a black mist swirled around within its confines. The mist began to dissipate and Aaron saw a dark place, with Rac-Nur chained to a wall, clearly unconscious. Aaron concentrated on the stone and added more power, trying to pull the view out. Aaron's view expanded and he saw Lady Laura's two bodyguards also chained and also quite unconscious. No sign of the three ladies. Now, to determine where they were. Aaron continued to draw power and began storing it in his swords as he concentrated harder trying to get a view of where they were located. He pulled his view back out of the room, out of a tunnel, out of an ornately decorated cave mouth, and finally a picture of the Dragon's Back Mountains, north of Malkur, north of Creton. The home of the Mountain Folk. Aaron released the image and let the power dissipate. He had a location, a starting point. If they were harmed, well, he could not think about that. Now, how to get there? ------- Tanith was walking through the bazaar when the power flow hit her. Someone had tapped and used a significant amount of Eldritch. By now she had the feel of the WitchLord and knew he was the source of that usage. She was able to pinpoint his location and hurried back to her room and her map. Reaching her room, she studied the map and coordinated on it where she felt the power usage from. Aithen, the once and powerful High City. He was not that far, now, should she go there or wait on him here? What if he needed her? What if he was in danger? "Well, now you are being overly melodramatic," she chided herself. "He is a WitchLord, after all, not some lowly vagabond thief." Getting her emotions under control, she decided to travel to Aithen, search him out and offer her services. She needed to meet him anyway, this just provided the reason. Packing her things, she turned around the room and after satisfying herself that she had everything, she vanished. Tanith reappeared on the Old Kings' Highway, just west of Aithen and walked to the city gates. Entering the city she began to scan for Eldritch, as well as, looking for a Tarran male. There, she felt his presence, the residue of Eldritch, and he was close. No! His presence faded and disappeared. Now, what to do? Should she return to Malkur and wait, or stay here and hope he returned? She decided to stay in Aithen and secure a room and wait. First, she needed to check in with the local guild, so she travelled to the Guild Quarter and searched out the Thieves' Guild. Finally finding the building she defeated the test and entered the guild. As she entered the foyer a door to her right opened and a man came out and approached her. "May I help you?" he asked. "Yes, I am from Malkur and I will be staying in Aithen for a few days," she smiled, handing over her token. "Malkur, you say?" he looked her token over and then passed it back to her. "My name is Drexil, and I am the master here. I may have a line on some work if you are interested?" "What type?" she asked, taking her token and putting it away. "I am called Tanith, by the way." "I am currently not at liberty to say," he replied looking her over. "Where are you staying?" "Nowhere yet," she replied. "Any suggestions?" "Yes, as a matter of fact," he nodded. "The 'Golden Pony' is one of the nicer inns. It may take a day or two, but I will leave word when to return. There is someone I want you to meet. Is that acceptable?" "Yes, very much so," she smiled. "I will await your message." Tanith left the guildhall and using Drexil's directions headed for the inn and booked a room. Now all she had to do was wait on the WitchLord. ------- Aaron decided the shortest route would be best, so he slipped his hood back on and shifted to the Shadow Realm. Standing in front of him, as if anticipating his need was a horse. A Nightmare, black as night with blood red eyes, breathing fire from its nostrils. Aaron climbed aboard and the Nightmare took off at a gallop. The horse covered ground in great chunks, the gray drab scenery blended in a blur as a trail of fire erupted behind them. Time slowed as the horse ran, the burning trail stretched out behind them. Presently Aaron felt the horse slow to a trot, as if the horse sensed where Aaron needed to get off. Finally the horse stopped and threw its head up and whinnied, signaling the time for Aaron to dismount. Aaron dismounted and patted the horse on its flanks and looked around, trying to get his bearings. The horse turned its head back toward Aaron and stared him in the eye. The Nightmare held Aaron's gaze for several heartbeats and finally swung its head back around and galloped off. Aaron was in the foothills of the mountains at the beginning of a trail leading up. He removed his hood and shifted back to the Material plane. Aaron took a moment to use the stone, pouring power into it, and oriented himself toward the cave mouth. It looked like the trail's destination was also Aaron's, so he put the stone away and followed the trail, trying to stay in the shadows of the trees, and began the climb up the mountainside. Aaron kept his senses sharp and his footsteps silent as he climbed ever higher. A noise up ahead caused him to get off the path and fade into the underbrush of the wooded area. Just in time too, for marching down the trail was a goblin patrol. Andorian Goblins were the adept magic-users of the non-elf little people. Gnomes, Dwarves, Dark Elves, and Goblins made up a sub-set of humanoid races of Andor. They were descended from a much older race that went missing at the end of the second age. Each sub-set had its own strengths and weaknesses. Goblins lived in mountain caves in clans. Each clan owed allegiance to a tribe, and every tribe owed allegiance to the Great Goblin King, Jareth Stonebiter XIII. They were the oldest of the long-lived races. First amongst their sub-set, second only to Elves, the oldest living race in Andor. It was said that goblins were around at the time of the Great War, and that the Elfen (one of the second age races), taught them rock magic, a specialized form of Eldritch. Goblin magic-users drew their power from the rock, and only the rock, and were among the strongest living magic using race, equal to Elves who used wood magic. Goblins were taller than Gnomes and Dwarves, standing at 4' 6" average height. Their skin was the color of granite, a light gray that blended into their rock surroundings. Pointy ears, laid flat against their skulls, eye color varying, depending on their clan. Hair was not a standard attribute, but wasn't necessarily uncommon either. They were slight of build, but not delicate, and normally dressed in leather and animal furs. They traded easily with most of the known races, and were among the finest hagglers in Andor. They were mercenaries as well, and often provided magic support for orc raiding parties. Aaron let the patrol move farther down the trail before moving out of his hiding place. He slowly continued his climb toward the entrance to the goblin kingdom. Stopping in the shadow of a tree, Aaron pulled his hood up and shifted into the Shadow Realm. The entrance to the goblin kingdom was ornately carved and decorated, giant carved columns held up the overhang of the entrance. Large goblins were carved into the face of the cliff, almost as sentries. Two massive oaken doors banded with iron stood open, allowing access to a large tunnel inclining down into the mountain. Guards flanked both sides of the opening as goblins streamed in and out, like ants on an anthill. Almost all of the known tribes lived in the mountain, all under the leadership of the Stonebiter clan. Tribal caverns had their own accesses to the upper lands, while the main entrance was mostly used for ceremonial or diplomatic occasions. Aaron walked right through the flow of traffic and past the guards into the main hall. As in an anthill, shafts and tunnels went down in all directions from the main hall, and goblins moved in and out of the main hall. Aaron was looking specifically for the grand hall. Although he had never been inside, Aaron knew that the kingdom was run and controlled from a main throne room off a grand hall, and that was where he wanted to start. He followed a group of goblin warriors wearing the livery of the goblin king down a side tunnel into another large ornately decorated hall. They continued through the hall and into a large room crowded with hundreds of goblins. Aaron had found the main throne room. The throne room was bustling with activity. There were orcs in negotiations with the King, while various small meetings were happening throughout the throne room. The orc contingent should have raised alarm bells, but they were known to work together, so Aaron dismissed it. He had more important matters to attend to. Aaron moved to the center of the throne room and began to pull power from his surroundings. After he was satisfied with the amount of stored power, he turned toward the throne and removed his hood, shifting back to the Material plane. "Hail, and well met, King Jareth Stonebiter," Aaron projected his voice. "I require an audience with the King of the Goblins." King Jareth Stonebiter XIII was taller than the average goblin at 5'2" tall. He also had long silver hair similar to a Gray Elf's, and crystal blue eyes, also unusual for a goblin. Silence descended on the throne room as King Jareth looked up at the intruder standing in the middle of his throne room. "Who are you, to trespass on the Hall of the Mountain Folk?" King Jareth asked, and swung his left arm in a sweeping motion forward. A group of royal guard moved away from the King and toward Aaron. "Halt!" Aaron pointed at the guard, while pushing power into his words, causing the guard to freeze in mid step. "I am a simple SwordMaster from the high city of Aithen. One of your clans has stolen from me, and I demand satisfaction." "You demand satisfaction?" King Jareth laughed. "Again I ask, who are you, to demand anything from the Mountain Folk?" "I am the being that will cause the end of the Mountain Folk," Aaron proclaimed in a matter of fact tone. "Unless you return to me what was stolen and deliver to me the thieves as well." "Kill him!" King Jareth stood and pointed. Several sorcerers stepped forward and began to draw power from the rock. Aaron was surprised that he could actually sense their power draw. He also began to draw power from deep in the rock and prepared himself for the upcoming fight. Eldritch began to swirl around Aaron as he tapped deep into the mountain. His eyes glowed with a blue brilliance, as the energy caused the stray hairs on his head to move as if whipped by the wind. Aaron was holding so much energy that he actually began to levitate off the floor. Aaron presented a frightening image to the assembled goblins and they backed away giving Aaron a wide berth. "I had hoped we could settle this diplomatically," Aaron's voice boomed throughout the hall, "but I see we'll have to do this the hard way." Aaron pulled his swords, which began to howl in glee with the intensity of power flowing around them. Aaron attacked the sorcerers with a powerful lightning strike, and drew even more power. The sorcerers blocked the attack and while they were distracted Aaron hit them with the fury of his maelstrom. The swirling ball of magical energy sucked the sorcerers up into it and slowly collapsed in upon itself, getting smaller and smaller, until finally disappearing completely, taking the sorcerers with it. "Black Rose, slay them, their souls are yours," Aaron released the sword. Black Rose streaked to the frozen guardsmen, killing them all and sucking their souls. When he was finished the sword returned to Aaron's outstretched hand. Black Rose shared this energy with Aaron, making him even stronger. "King Jareth, do not throw away more of your subjects," Aaron admonished him. "Return what was taken and we can dispense with this. If you test me again, I will kill everyone in this hall." "Be at peace. You have proven your power," King Jareth humbly proclaimed. "What was stolen, and how can we rectify this?" "Five human females and one Shoc-Du male were taken from the shop district of the middle city in Aithen." Aaron replied. "Return them to me now, unharmed. I also want those responsible for the abduction." Aaron began to slowly release the stored power. "It will be as you command," King Jareth turned to one of his advisors and issued commands. The advisor bowed and scurried off. "We will find your missing companions," King Jareth declared. "I have also sent for refreshments." Several moments later a stream of servants entered the throne room and set up a table and chairs in front of Aaron. Plates, glasses and a large copper bucket with lid were set in the table. Several more brought food and drink. Laid out on the table were fruits, cheeses, and bread, along with wine and Gnomish whisky. The King stepped down from his throne and walked up to the table, bowed toward Aaron and sat in the chair offered by one of the stewards. A steward came around to Aaron's side and pulled out a chair and waited. Aaron sheathed his swords and sat in the offered chair. "Wine or whisky, milord?" the steward asked. Aaron selected the Gnomish and one of the stewards opened the copper bucket to remove several shards of ice and dropped them in a glass, pouring the whisky over the top. Handing the glass to Aaron he stepped back and waited. The King also selected the Gnomish and was given a glass identical to Aaron's. King Jareth raised his glass in salute and sipped from it. Aaron tried the whisky, chilled by the ice and commended the King on his choice. While Aaron enjoyed the whisky 'over rocks', he still preferred it 'straight up'. "You are not just a SwordMaster from Aithen, are you?" King Jareth asked. "Our ancestors wrote of a time when three great races ruled the land. You are a descendant of one of those races are you not? I ask because they described exactly how you looked wielding your magic." "Yes, I am a descendant of one of those races," Aaron replied. "Hmm, I thought so," King Jareth replied smiling, and sipped his whisky. Several moments later the doors to the throne room opened and several goblins led in Aaron's friends. Anastasia saw Aaron and called out to him. One of the goblins slapped her across the face and told her to be silent in the presence of the King. Aaron leaped from his chair, knocking it over and reached out with Eldritch, grabbing the goblin and crushing him into the wall. Aaron pivoted, pulling Black Rose and placed the sword's point under the chin of King Jareth. Red Rose was out as well, pointed outward. "Did you not understand me earlier?" Aaron growled, rage in his eyes. "Tell me why I should not kill you where you sit?" "It was a misunderstanding," King Jareth raised his hands in supplication. "You have dealt with the offender; let us determine why this incident was perpetrated in the first place." "Fine!" Aaron lowered his swords. "But, know this, O Great King of the Goblins, my patience is gone, try me again and there will be repercussions, severe repercussions." The bodyguards and Rac-Nur looked the worse for wear. The three ladies fared much better. Aaron demanded their possessions be returned as well. Aaron told Lady Laura that he was sending them to his study in Anastasia's home and to wait there until he returned. He pressed the gold enchanted coins in both ladies hands, quickly explained how they worked, and then had Black Rose teleport them to the study. Aaron learned that Lady Laura was not the target, Anastasia was, well, in all actuality, Aaron was. It seemed House Beadle, specifically Lord Colin's younger brother, now Lord Calan Beadle wanted revenge. Lord Calan contracted through the Duchy of Creton's Thieves' Guild, who in turn contracted it out to the Rockward clan of the Mountain Folk. The clan leader was the one Aaron crushed into the wall. Aaron decided that the loss of the King's guards, sorcerers, and the clan leader off-set the goblin's involvement. After receiving assurances that Aaron would not retaliate any further, King Jareth gave Aaron a standing invitation and made him an honorary member of the Stonebiter clan. Aaron bid King Jareth long health and had Black Rose teleport him to the drawing room, and his companions. ------- Tanith felt the power usage, and it was the strongest usage of Eldritch by far. The WitchLord was definitely growing stronger. The usage was pinpointed to the mountains northwest of Aithen, in the realm of the Mountain Folk. She hoped that her decision to travel to Aithen was correct and that he would return. At this point she figured she had nothing to lose by waiting around the old High City for a couple of days. If nothing else she would catch up with him in Malkur, which her senses told her was still his ultimate destination. ------- Chapter 10a When Aaron appeared in the study Anastasia jumped into his arms crying. Aaron held her and looked over to Lady Laura. "Are you alright?" Aaron asked. Aaron got a nod from Lady Laura and Colleen. Rac-Nur approached Aaron, dropped to his knees, bowed his head, and pulled the hair away from the back of his neck. "I have failed you, Shoc-Ti," Rac-Nur stated. "End my life, for I am nothing." "You did not fail me, Rac-Nur," Aaron let go of Anastasia and reached down for Rac-Nur. "I failed all of you. I forgot one of my fundamental tenets. The relative of an enemy of mine tried to strike at me through all of you. I should have prevented that long before it could come to fruition. I won't make that mistake again." "Rac-Nur, get up," Aaron commanded. "I still need you to protect Anastasia. I am not done with you yet." Rac-Nur stood and bowed low to Aaron and then Anastasia. Aaron walked to the door and opened it and announced to Stefan that there would be seven for dinner. He directed Anastasia to escort the women upstairs to get cleaned up and had Stefan show Rac-Nur where he could clean up as well. Aaron was left alone in his study and sat in the desk chair and relaxed. He had serious decisions to make. What to do about Calan Beadle? What to do about the entire house? Clearly they desired revenge, to what extent and how far through the family did it run? Aaron's musings were interrupted by Stefan, who brought him a note from Master Drexil. Stefan also had a tray with a bottle and glasses. Setting the tray down, he presented Aaron with the sealed letter. Aaron opened and read the note. Apparently Drexil had a prospect that he wanted Aaron to meet. Aaron wrote a response and gave it to Stefan to have it delivered. Reaching into his cloak he removed his pipe and weed. Filling and lighting his pipe and then pouring a glass of Gnomish, he leaned back, putting his feet up on the desk, and smoked his pipe and sipped his whisky. His silent contemplations were interrupted again by a knock on the door. Aaron swung his legs down and bid whoever enter. Rac-Nur entered and Aaron bid him sit down. Rac-Nur went over the events of the day, from the shopping, to the abduction, and eventual imprisonment. They went back over it again with Aaron asking pointed questions. When it was over, Aaron concluded that nothing Rac-Nur could have done would have prevented the abduction. They would have to be more diligent in the future. Less assumptions and more investigating should combat any further attempts. Aaron had some ideas as well. Stefan announced dinner and the ladies met them in the dining room. The table was set for eight and Marcus joined them for dinner. Initially Lady Laura's bodyguards refused to sit at the same table as their lady, but Aaron quashed that and basically ordered them to sit and enjoy dinner. After dinner Aaron invited everyone back into his study, where he explained his plans for the remainder of their stay in Aithen. With Lady Laura's permission he would send a sealed note to the palace, informing the King and Chamberlain that Lady Laura and entourage would be staying as guests of Miss Anastasia de Ponce. They would return to the palace for the ball, but would stay with Miss De Ponce afterward and would leave with her for Malkur the following day. He would ask the Chamberlain to have Lady Laura's things packed and delivered to the home of the Miss De Ponce. Aaron felt that keeping everyone together was better for their overall security. He had some additional plans, which he kept to himself, that would further ensure their continued safety. Lady Laura was happy to spend the evening with Anastasia and attend the ball together. Aaron wrote and had Stefan send the letter. The next order of business was the funeral of Anastasia's father. Aaron suggested to Anastasia that there be a small ceremony on the morning they were to leave for Malkur. He would send instructions to the undertaker and have it arranged. Anastasia agreed with Aaron's idea and just wanted it over and to get on with her life. Lady Laura's things were delivered about an hour later by Chamberlain Walton himself. Worried about the informant mentioned in Aaron's letter, Walton took on the packing and delivering himself. Lady Laura was most pleased with the Chamberlain, with whom she routinely failed to see eye to eye. She thanked him and gave him a quick kiss on the cheek before leaving the study to see about the unpacking. Walton just looked at Aaron and shook his head, remarking about Aaron's ability to tame even the most ill-tempered beasts. Aaron laughed and offered him some Gnomish whisky, which Walton accepted, sitting down to relax. Stefan took care of the sleeping arrangements. The house had four bedrooms plus the master's, so there were enough rooms to go around. Aaron suggested Lady Laura move into the master with her bodyguards and Rac-Nur chose the room closest to Anastasia, while Lady Colleen took the one closest to the master. Aaron pressed upon Marcus the necessity of silence concerning the house guests and Marcus retired to his room in the servants quarters. Aaron stayed in the study and began planning the trip to Malkur as well as the appointments he had for tomorrow. He wanted everything ready to leave first thing in the morning the day after tomorrow. He also decided to check about any merchant caravans going west. After mentally going over everything left to do, Aaron turned in for the night. Aaron was up at first light, and began his morning routine of exercise and sword practice. The house had a nice interior courtyard, just perfect for training. Aaron had been at it for about a half an hour when Rac-Nur joined him. Pretty soon Rene and Michele joined him too. After an hour of intense sword practice, Aaron called a halt for himself and stepped to the side where Anastasia was waiting with a towel and a pitcher of water. Aaron dumped the water over his head and dried off as Anastasia waited with a large glass of water with which to quench his thirst. She complemented him on his skill with swords and asked if he would teach her after their move to Malkur. Aaron said he would and decided that an interior courtyard should be part of any property he purchased. After bidding everyone good day and a reminder to please remain indoors, Aaron left the house. His first order of business was the Fighters' Guild and his prospective mounted army. The interviews went well and Aaron transferred funds to the guild for the company's use. He ended up hiring a captain, two lieutenants, and several sergeants. He established a quartermaster from one of the senior sergeants and explained what he wanted. The company could be ready to leave in two days if necessary, but the support staff and the families would take longer, probably two weeks. Aaron decided to have the captain take one platoon as soon as possible, and let the senior lieutenant follow up with the rest of the company when everything else was ready. He gave the captain letters of introduction for Realto and his father, and also gave him a scroll he made under Red Rose's instruction, to remove the warding on the castle main doors. He explained to the captain that the keep was closed and warded and to have the men stay clear. The captain had no further questions and thought that they would make the castle in ten days to a fortnight after leaving Aithen. That was acceptable to Aaron and he bid the captain good day and left the guild satisfied that the castle would be adequately defended. He had several hours to kill before his meeting with Drexil and whomever it was that Drexil wanted him to meet so he wandered over to the Central Quarter and found a tavern that suit his needs. He entered the tavern and found a table in the back, ordered mead and pulled out his pipe and lit it. ------- Lord Calan Beadle, the younger brother of His Grace, Duke Colin Beadle, may he rest in peace, was an early riser, and as such was in his office at sunrise. He believed in the adage that early bird gets the worm, and there was a bug juicy worm just waiting to be plucked. He had continued the plans of his brother and they were close, so very close to achieving their ultimate goal: control of Aithen, and all trade in the five realms. While his brother had underestimated his adversary, Lord Calan had no intention of repeating that folly. He was just waiting for the report from Creton, when a shape began to materialize in his office. Looking up he audibly gasped before rising from his desk and genuflecting before his Lord. The shape manifested into a cloaked man, 'godly' aura all around him. "My Master, how can your servant be of service?" Lord Calan asked. "Arise, my good and faithful servant," the entity commanded. "Your master is displeased. Did he not tell you to be careful when dealing with Whiterune, or his companions?" "Yes, My Master, you did," Lord Calan hung his head. "I thought to distract him with the kidnapping, and perhaps to gain an advantage with the goblins." "Fool! He has already rescued them, and now knows of your involvement," the entity spat. "Do not underestimate him again, or you will wind up next to your brother!" "Yes, My Master." Lord Calan was groveling before his master. "Is your timeline on schedule?" the entity asked. "Yes, My Master," Lord Calan replied, more confident that he was going to escape his master's wrath. "Very good, see that you keep to it," the entity commanded and then extended his hand as red lightning shot out, engulfing the screaming shape huddled on the floor before him. "It pains me to have to discipline you like this," the entity chided him gently. "You must be more cautious. See that you learn your lesson." The entity vanished and the lightning subsided leaving Lord Calan moaning on the floor in the fetal position. ------- Tanith was up early and stretched and exercised before leaving her room and entering the dining room for breakfast. She had just begun her meal when Brian, the son of the innkeeper came to her table with a sealed note. "This was just dropped off in the front for you, milady," Brian smiled his biggest smile, and handed her the note. Taking the note she handed him a silver piece and he smiled and turned away. Chuckling to herself, Tanith opened the note and read its contents. The Thieves' Guildmaster wanted her in his office later that morning to discuss his proposition in more detail. She finished her breakfast and left the inn, but not before letting the innkeeper know that she would require the room for another night. It was a bustling day in the Merchant Quarter as she strolled through the various shops of the lower city. She was not buying, just wasting time. She also hoped to catch a sense of the WitchLord, but noted nothing so far, although he would have had to use power before she could of sensed him anyway. Having determined that enough time had passed, Tanith left the Merchant Quarter and made her way to the Guild Quarter and the home of the Thieves' Guild. She was a little early, and hoped it didn't seem like she was desperate for work, which she wasn't. She really wasn't sure why she had even kept this appointment and hadn't just returned to Malkur the previous evening. Tanith successfully navigated the traps, which changed daily and entered the guildhall. She was then escorted into the office of the Guildmaster. She entered the office and smiled at Master Drexil who was sitting behind his desk. Master Drexil stood, while the man sitting in front of the desk put his drink down, stood, and turned in greeting as well. Tanith took a visible step back as she came face to face with the WitchLord! ------- Aaron finally got bored with waiting and decided to arrive early and see what Drexil was up to, so he paid his bill and left the tavern. It wasn't a long walk from the Central Quarter to the Guild Quarter, so Aaron made good time. Arriving at the guildhall, he defeated the traps and entered the door. He was ushered into Drexil's office, where Drexil was standing, waiting on Aaron to enter. "Milord, thank you for coming," Drexil smiled and waited for Aaron to sit in the offered chair. "Would you like something to drink?" Aaron answered in the affirmative and Gnomish whisky was brought, which Aaron commented on. Drexil told him that he knew what Aaron liked and had it stocked just in case. Aaron thanked him and tasted the whisky and complemented Drexil on his choice. They discussed inconsequential things until a knock on the door drew their attention. The door opened and Drexil stood in greeting. Setting his glass down, Aaron stood and turned to greet the new comer. His eyes locked with hers, no words of greeting passed his lips, as his eyes fell into the swirling mist of hers. His heart began beating faster, as emotions of joy, happiness, and love, welled up inside of him. He couldn't even remember the color of her eyes. "Blue," a voice, pure and refreshing like water to a drowning man, chuckled in his head. In the distance he could hear Drexil talking, but it was if Drexil was talking to him through a tunnel and Aaron couldn't make out the words. "I wonder what her name is?" Aaron thought to himself. "Tanith. My name is Tanith," that sweet sounding voice replied to him. "Yes, Tanith. I knew that. I don't know how I know but I do," he replied. "I am Aaron, Aaron Whiterune." He felt a connection, as if he were made whole. He didn't even realize that he was looking for such a connection, and now he had it. His being was one again, united in love and purpose. He could spend the rest of eternity basking in the feeling of this bond. "Not many know of the bond, Beloved," she chuckled sweetly. "Aaron, it is time to come back. As much as I would love to spend eternity this way as well, Master Drexil is getting worried." Aaron sighed and slowly returned to the present, and turned to Drexil, "I am fine, be at peace." "Are you sure, Milord?" Drexil asked. "I could call for a healer?" Aaron finally cleared his head and replied, "No, that won't be necessary." "Where did you come from?" he asked Tanith. "And, how did you know that I would be here?" "I came from beyond the mountains," she replied. "I've felt you for many weeks and sensed you were heading toward Malkur. I didn't know you would be here, this was just chance." "Milord, you know her?" Drexil asked, clearly confused. "We are making Master Drexil nervous," Tanith chuckled. Aaron could get use to that laugh. "I am staying at an inn close by. 'The Golden Pony', we could talk there." Now it was Aaron's turn to laugh, as he explained his relationship with 'The Golden Pony'. He talked with Drexil for several moments about his plans, and concerns with the 'council'. He then handed him a non-enchanted engraved coin, explaining its significance. Finally, after telling Drexil not to worry and that Aaron would check in with him later, he escorted Tanith out of the guildhall and toward the Merchant Quarter and the inn where she was staying. When they entered the inn, Raymond saw Aaron and came over to see them. "Lord Aaron, it's so nice to have you back with us," Raymond smiled as he showed them to a table in the back. "Wait until I tell Marie, she'll be excited." Leaving them, he hurried into the kitchen. Tanith and Aaron spent the rest of the morning and most of the afternoon getting acquainted. Aaron discussed his present situation and his immediate short term goals. He also told her about himself, leaving out the assassin part, and touched lightly on the topic of his swords. Tanith told him of her home in the mountains, but refrained from explaining her true self. They got on easily; feeling relaxed around each other. They were like two old friends finding one another after a long separation. Friends, however, with secrets. When Aaron told her about the ball she declined his invitation. She didn't want to interfere with his work, but accepted the invitation to travel to Malkur with them. She explained that she didn't own a mount, never having learned to ride a horse, but she thought she could aid the coach driver. Tanith cautioned discretion when explaining their relationship to others. She could better assist Aaron if others didn't know the extent of their relationship. Aaron told her where he was staying and she promised to be there first thing in the morning. Aaron had a hard time leaving Tanith, only her promise to see him in the morning made the parting easier. Aaron had to put his feelings in a separate area so he was able to function. "I feel like a love sick school boy," he laughed to himself. "Better compartmentalize those feelings, so I can stay focused." Before leaving, Aaron discussed with Raymond what he had talked to Rac-Nur about. Raymond assured him that if Rac-Nur was ever in need, then Raymond would help him to the best of his ability. After thanking Raymond, Aaron left the inn. ------- Chapter 10b Returning to Anastasia's home, Aaron opened the door into chaos. Three women trying to get ready for a royal ball was much worse than a full company of orcs, any day. The fact that the ball was being held in honor of one of the women, made it much, much worse. Aaron tried to stay out of the way while he cleaned up and changed into his court clothes. Still favoring darker colors, Aaron's doublet was charcoal gray, trimmed and decorated with silver thread, over a silver silk shirt with puffed sleeves and lace cuffs. Black pants with a silver vertical stripe on the outside of both legs were bloused inside black leather boots, polished to a mirror shine. No daggers or armor were worn with this outfit and his swords were buckled over and under on his left hip, with scabbards at a downward diagonal from his body. His gloves were charcoal gray dyed leather, left hand sleeve glove worn, while the right hand glove was tucked in his belt. He wore a cloak, not his shadow cloak, but a smaller court cloak, fastened at the neck and extending to the waist. Not to say that he didn't have his regular cloak. He packed his important things in his bag of holding and placed it in his shirt. He felt safer having his things close at hand. Taking one last look he determined he was as ready as possible and left his study to wait in the hall for his companions. The women descended the stairs and Aaron didn't think a more beautiful sight had ever been seen. Anastasia was wearing a gray full length dress and fur stole. The dress complemented his attire and enhanced her loveliness. Lady Colleen was next in a forest green dress similar to Anastasia's, right down to the fur stole. Lady Laura made a grand entrance in a sky blue gown with lace shawl. Rac-Nur and the bodyguards wore elegant but practical clothes. Lady Laura asked him if his swords were necessary this evening to which Aaron only nodded, escorting them out the door and to the waiting carriage. Rac-Nur rode up top with the driver and Rene and Michele rode inside with the ladies. Aaron had Thorn brought down from the stables earlier and he was groomed and pampered as well. Mounting his horse, he followed the carriage to the palace. Aaron had made a grave error when he assumed that killing Colin Beadle had put an end to the secret society within the Temple of the Hand, or that its power was lost with the death of the God Thief. He hadn't removed the head of a snake, but of a hydra! The carriage had just passed through the upper city gates when Aaron's error came home to roost! "My Lord, ambush!" Red Rose cried out. "Multiple attackers, both sides!" Aaron echoed Red Rose's warning, drew Black Rose and began pulling power from the area. He had just begun to turn Thorn to the right when he felt two arrows hit him in the side under his right arm. The rune in the center of the signet ring on Aaron's left hand flared brightly, longer than ever before, and Aaron felt a continuous tingle throughout his body. Thorn took two arrows in the neck and stumbled and fell dead. Aaron took two more arrows in the chest as he went down with Thorn and was pinned under the horse, his left leg crushed, as well as broken, by the fall. Rac-Nur heard Aaron's warning and moved to his left, swinging down toward the carriage door, just as the driver took an arrow in the neck and fell forward. The horses stumbled and fell with arrow shafts sticking out of their necks as Rac-Nur heard screams from inside the carriage. Entering the carriage he pushed Anastasia and Laura to the floor as multiple arrows entered the carriage from both sides hitting Colleen and both bodyguards killing them instantly. Rac-Nur leaned over trying to cover the ladies, hoping his liege was alright. Aaron was in trouble and losing consciousness fast. He commanded Black Rose to teleport the ladies to safety and then passed out. Black Rose teleported the ladies and Rac-Nur back to the house, and then laid on the ground in his wielder's outstretched hand, waiting for him to die, and dreading the return to its stone. ------- Tanith was eating dinner when five assassins, all dressed in black entered the inn. Several arrows flew through the air at her as she stood and knocked them down with a sweep of her arm. Lashing out with Eldritch, she incinerated her assailants, leaving nothing but five piles of ash. She gasped as she felt her connection to Aaron weakening, reaching out with her senses she searched for him and then after finding him, went to his location. Wyrms use a different type of distance travel than sorcerers or Runeswords, more gate than teleportation. She didn't need to have been where she was going, she could sense the location based on any sentient being in the area. But, unlike a gate, her arrival was not pre-announced by the formation of the shift. Tanith appeared next to Aaron's fallen body just as assassins dressed all in black, closed in on the very same position. Several arrows bounced off of her bustier, angering her, as she transformed to her true self, and screamed her rage at the attackers. Placing a taloned foot protectively over Aaron, she sprayed the area with wyrmfire, engulfing the advancing assassins in flames. She laid down her fire with a precision born of years of knowledge and experience, consuming the attackers without causing unnecessary damage to the surrounding area. After verifying that no assassins survived her attack, she shifted back to human form and knelt at Aaron's side and inspected his wounds. He was breathing, but just barely. He had four arrows sticking out of him and poison coursed through his veins, one-step cobra venom! Removing the arrows she began to scribe runes over his body as she fed Eldritch into it, trying to repair the damage as she kept him alive. Removing the longsword from his grasp, she crossed his hands over his chest and sheathed the sword. His vital signs stabilized, so she transported them to her lair in the 'Dragon Tooth Mountains'. ------- King Thane was putting on the finishing touches before the ball and discussing last minute changes with his chamberlain when they heard a ruckus from outside the door. Metal on metal resounded through the closed door and then a scream. King Thane drew his sword, while Walton prepared a spell as the door to his private chambers burst open and six assassins, dressed all in black with faces covered by black cloth, rushed in. King Thane dispatched the first, and the mini fireball from Walton killed the second. King Thane parried a thrust from another assailant as still another slipped in under his defense and pierced his heart. Walton didn't have time to cast another spell before he was cut down. Thus ended the reign of King Thane Blackmoon. ------- Rac-Nur felt the power teleporting them back to Anastasia's residence and looked around, stood up, and helped the ladies to their feet. They were standing in the main hallway when the front door opened and Marcus entered along with several assassins, dressed all in black. Rac-Nur pushed the two ladies toward the stairs as he turned, pulling his swords. Laura screamed in fright while Anastasia dragged her up the stairs to where her father had a special room designed for just such an emergency. Heading into her room, she dragged Laura up to a set of clothes hooks on the wall. Grabbing the second one on the right and turning one way then back again, opened a small doorway in the wall on the opposite side of her bed. After quieting Laura down, she pushed her down and Laura climbed through the opening with Anastasia behind. Anastasia closed the door and pushed a pressure plate locking it into place. Laura looked around in shock at the stocked room. Anastasia motioned for her to be quiet and moved to the opposite side and sat on the floor. Taking the coin out of her pocket she began rubbing it, thinking of Aaron. Downstairs Rac-Nur was in a fight for his life. The assassins were good and pressing their advantage. Rac-Nur had killed two, but the other three had him flanked, and his only advantage was the high ground he had as he defended the stairs from the first step. Marcus had already fled upon seeing Rac-Nur dispatch the first two. The assassins were good, but Rac-Nur wasn't a clan first sword for nothing. Leaping up and somersaulting over the middle assassin while raking his back with both swords, Rac-Nur landed behind the other two. Dropping to one knee and thrusting forward simultaneously with his swords, Rac-Nur skewered the remaining attackers through their hearts. After checking to make sure the attackers were dead, he slowly and quietly climbed the stairs searching for his two charges. ------- Four squads of assassins, sixteen total members of the infamous Black Hand, crept through the streets of Realto and climbed over the wall onto the manor grounds. They broke up into two groups, one heading toward the barracks while the other approached the manor. Two more squads brought up the rear and headed toward the gates where they silently waited. The fact that Master Caleb was a very light sleeper and slept next to the stalls caused the night to end differently for a few lucky souls. The horses heard the movement in the night and began to nicker and whinny, waking him in an instant. Looking out the window he saw several shapes moving across the grounds and hurried to the alarm bell, where he sounded the alarm. "To arms! To arms!" he cried. "Intruders on the manor grounds! To arms! Protect the Duke and family!" Guardsmen streamed out of the barracks and engaged the intruders that confronted them, holding them at bay. Several of the assassins broke off the attack and headed toward the manor's gates, where they attacked the guards, overwhelming and finally killing them. They then opened the gates, allowing more assassins to enter the grounds and move toward the manor house. Quickly, the guardsmen were overrun and killed. Caleb threw on his clothes and grabbed his weapons and went out the back of his quarters and toward the manor house. Along the way he gathered several guards to him and continued to the back of the house where he approached a secret entrance. At the rear of the house he ran into Master Landon and another group of guardsmen. ------- Micah awoke to the sounds of the alarm being rung in the courtyard. Slipping on his clothes and grabbing his sword and belt, he went to his door and cracked it open. Guards were running down the hall and screams and shouts could be heard in the main hall. Closing the door he crossed his room, opened a secret passageway and entered it, closing the door behind him. Taking out the coin that Aaron gave him, he rubbed it thinking of Aaron and that he needed aid. Putting the coin away, he quietly snuck down the passageway. Arriving at the entrance to his father's room, he slid the peephole opened and saw fighting. His father, flanked by guardsmen, was holding off four black clad assassins. Micah watched in horror as his father and the guards were cut down by the assassins. Closing the peephole, he turned and made his way to Isabelle's room. After checking through the peephole, he called out to her and opened the secret door. She rushed to him and he pulled her back into the secret passageway, closing the door. Signaling her to be quiet, they crept down the passageway making turns at several intersections until Micah stopped them and slid open a peephole to check to see if the coast was clear. Before he left the house there was something he realized he needed to do. Telling Isabelle to wait, Micah back tracked through the passageway to just outside his father's room. Checking the peephole to make sure it was safe, Micah opened the secret door and entered the master's quarters. Dropping to his knees at his father's side he gently, reverently, removed the ducal ring and kissed his father's brow. Picking up his father's sword, Micah slipped back into the passageway, closed the door and hurried back to Isabelle. Again checking that the coast was clear, he opened the door and led Isabelle out of the house and across the grounds toward the back wall where they encountered Masters Caleb and Landon, as well as several guards. After confirming that the Duke was dead, Caleb led them through a secret opening in the back wall and toward the river. Hidden in the reeds was a small boat which they used to ferry the refugees to the eastern shore and the woods, where they met up with a Druid. The Druid led them deeper into the woods and sanctuary. ------- Rac-Nur searched the upstairs and called out several times for the ladies. Anastasia finally heard him and disobeying her dead father's orders, opened the secret door and left the relative safety of the room. Rac-Nur explained that the assassins were dead, but they weren't safe yet. He also told Anastasia that Marcus was involved. He didn't know anything about Aaron and thought that the room was their best course of action for the immediate future. After he ensured that they were adequately supplied, they reentered the safe room and closed the door. ------- Tsor Shadowheart was a very unhappy Goblin wizard. Semi-retirement from the council should have provided him a certain amount of relaxation, a sort of elder statesman status. He thought he had left the council in the capable hands of Gnola Cobbleger, but now he wasn't so sure. No, this latest fiasco was the last straw. Events should be gently adjusted; a nudge here, a shift there, toward the end result that benefited the council's interest. This was too abrupt, too heavy handed, too obvious that someone or something were directing events. Arriving at the 'Deathmark', he walked over to the back wall and it slid open for him. The council was in full attendance as he had ordered. Representing the Goblin interest was Lord Tnuk Ironarm, whose clan was in direct conflict with the Goblin King. Lord Gnola Cobbleger was the representative of the Gnomes, Lord Qatar Battlegem of the Dwarves, Lord Remy Wildstaff of the Central Plains, and Lord Elwes Icesailor of the Southern Reaches. "Lords, and I use that term loosely," Lord Shadowheart admonished them. "Who authorized this disaster that we find ourselves in?" "Lord Elwes, and Lord Tnuk, with Duke Beadle, conceived and proposed it," Lord Gnola explained. "I signed off on it." "What is the current status of the operation?" Lord Shadowheart asked disgustedly. "Thane Blackmoon and Thandar Blackmoon, are dead," Lord Remy explained. "Young Master Blackmoon is missing and his status is unknown." "What of Lord Blackmoon, or Whiterune now?" Lord Shadowheart asked, clearly irritated. "His body has not yet been recovered," Lord Elwes replied. "It has been reported that he took four poison arrows in the chest and went down. There was a fire; preliminary reports suggested a fireball of some sort. We believe his body was consumed in the flames." "So, no body? No evidence of his demise?" Lord Shadowheart asked. "You believe he is dead?" "Lord Shadowheart, he took four arrows, dipped in one-step cobra venom," Lord Elwes continued, "No one could survive that." "Lord Icesailor, you are new to this, so I'll explain it to you slowly," Lord Shadowheart said softly, menacing. "Without a body, you assume nothing. We know that Lord Whiterune has survived situations where most couldn't. What makes you think he hasn't survived?" "Milord, no one survives one-step venom," Lord Elwes remarked. "Let's hope not, Lords, let's hope not," Lord Shadowheart sighed. "If he did survive, he's going to want answers. He's going to want answers from this body. He's going to realize that he's been lied to from the very beginning." "What if he does?" Lord Elwes asked. "It's not as if we are without resources of our own." "My dear Lord Icesailor," Lord Shadowheart replied. "I have recently learned that our young Lord Whiterune is not without resources himself, resources that you had better hope never be brought to bear. Now, what of the 'Ducal Brat'?" "Missing as well, Lord Shadowheart, with Miss Anastasia de Ponce," Lord Tnuk replied. "Somehow, she left the scene of the ambush and ended up at the home of Anastasia de Ponce. Our man Marcus, with several of Creton's men, surprised them there. The dark elf was with them and killed the men, but Marcus escaped. Their current whereabouts is unknown." "Let me get this straight, Lord Ironarm," Lord Shadowheart stated disgustedly. "You conceived and hatched a plan in five parts, of which only two parts are known to have been concluded. You have no proof that the most important part was completed. The second most important part is missing. The heir to the crown, who could topple the plan completely, is also nowhere to be found. Is that about correct, or is there anything more?" "Yes, Lord Shadowheart, that is correct," Lord Tnuk said, lowering his head. "There is one thing more; Lord Whiterune was seen in the company of another thief, from Malkur, just hours before the ambush. We sent assassins to deal with her, thinking it might be a loose end needing clipping. Reports suggest she used some type of magic and burnt them to a pile of ash. We have informants in Aithen and Malkur looking for her." "A pile of ash? Are you certain?" Lord Shadowheart's voice rose in concern. "Yes, milord," Lord Tnuk replied, hearing the concern in Lord Tsor's voice "Why?" "There are but a few attacks that leave a pile of ash, Lord Ironarm," Lord Shadowheart tried to explain. "None of them bode well for us." "Find the young prince and complete that part first," Lord Shadowheart raised his voice. "Find Lady Laura, Miss Anastasia, and deal with the dark elf. Miss Anastasia could be used as a tool if Lord Whiterune is indeed alive. And find this thief that burns assassins, but be very cautious. At least some good has come from this mess. That troublemaker, Master Carlos, won't be able to shoot off his mouth." "Fix this, or I will be forced to find someone that can!" Lord Shadowheart growled, standing up. "Keep me posted." ------- Chapter 11 The ladies had a restless night, both were worried about what tomorrow would bring. Lady Laura was also grieving over the loss of her bodyguards and Lady Colleen, more friends than employees. Rac-Nur spent the night listening at the secret door for any type of movement on the other side. Several times he heard noises coming from the other side of the wall and kept the ladies quiet so as not to betray their concealment. Finally Rac-Nur determined that it must be daylight and this hiding place could become a mausoleum if they stayed there much longer. He discussed with the ladies their next move. He thought about going to the palace, but something about that nagged him. Why hadn't the King sent guardsman to find them after the attempt on their lives? If his liege was alive, why hadn't he come either? Rac-Nur had many questions and few answers. He asked Lady Laura if there was anything at the palace she absolutely needed. Most of her things, she told him, the important ones at least, had been brought down the previous night. There wasn't anything at the palace she couldn't replace. After listening at the wall for any sound, Rac-Nur finally decided to open the access and hope for the best. He cautioned the women to stay and to close the door behind him. He would scout the house and if everything was clear would use a rhythmic knock to let them know the coast was clear. Quietly and cautiously, Rac-Nur crept through the upstairs and after finding no one, went downstairs and checked there as well. The assailants from the previous night had been removed, as well as all evidence of the fight cleaned or removed. He did find Stefan dead in his bed chamber, and closed the door and returned to Anastasia's bed chamber. Letting the women know the coast was clear he had them pack essentials and non-replaceable keepsakes, and then hid everything else of value in the secret room. He had them dress in riding clothes with hooded cloaks -- nothing fancy, and certainly nothing that would cause them to stand out in a crowd. Rac-Nur explained to Lady Laura that his master had charged him with the protection of Lady Anastasia and that was his primary responsibility. However, his master had agreed to protect Lady Laura and in his absence Rac-Nur would assume that responsibility as well. He wanted to know what Lady Laura wanted to do. Did she want to try and get home to Malkur? Rac-Nur cautioned that it was a journey of at least a fortnight, and he wasn't familiar with the road or the land west of Aithen. He also cautioned that they had no idea what the current climate was in Malkur. Someone, or some ones, wanted Lady Laura, and the road to Malkur could provide ample opportunities for that. Rac-Nur told them that his master had a home east of Aithen in Realto, and although it was a week's journey, Rac-Nur knew the lay of the land and that his master's father would protect them. The ladies concurred that their best option seemed to be to head for Realto. Although it was farther away from Malkur, Lady Laura realized that the trip would probably be safer. Rac-Nur decided to leave at dusk and head to the inn his master told him about. If this was a major conspiracy then he was afraid they might not be allowed to leave Aithen. He really wanted to get a look at the palace and determine what was going on, but he didn't want to leave the ladies here alone, yet bringing them might not be smart either. Finally coming to a decision, he armed the ladies with daggers, told them where to go in the lower city if they got separated, and decided to try to get into the upper city and the palace. ------- Tanith had hovered over Aaron with concern, and yes, even fear, since returning to her lair the previous night. He was unconscious and even unresponsive through the bond. The fact that she could still feel him through it provided some comfort. She had stripped him of his possessions and clothes after returning to her lair the previous evening, all except the glowing signet ring on his left hand. She had correctly deduced that it was a ring of protection or something similar, a very powerful ring of protection. The other thing she realized was just exactly who her WitchLord was: the heir to the Rose Throne, which made that ring the royal ring of Tarra. She left the ring on his finger, but all else she removed. She inspected the entry wounds and after determining that it was safe to do so, she healed the wound sites with Eldritch dripped like liquid from her fingertips. The wounds sizzled and smoked, but healed over. There would remain however, a prominent reminder of the attack. Next she inspected the left arm and the angry looking scar at his bicep. It interested her that the arm gave off a hue of goodness, which contradicted his chosen lifestyle. The glove, Thangdaemon made and enchanted, explained much. Again she dripped Eldritch from her fingertips around the scar causing the skin to fade from angry red to a pale pink. That was about the extent of the repair, so she left it alone. Every so often she would feed him Eldritch through their link to help his body fight off the effects of the poison, but other than that there was little she could do. He had enough poison in him to kill ten men, she just had to wait and see. ------- The night was long and difficult for Micah, who slept very little. Finally at false dawn, he threw off his coverings and got up and went over to the fire. Guardsmen noticed his movements and went back to watching the forest, in protection of the young Duke and heir to the kingdom. Micah looked over to where Isabelle tossed and turned, having her own difficulties. A cup of steaming brew was passed to him by one of the Rangers as Caleb sat down next to him with a sigh. "We've had scouts out all night, Your Grace," Caleb began. Micah looked up with an arched brow and look of irritation at the use of the formal title. "Since when have I become 'Your Grace'?" he asked his brother's mentor and friend. "I thought our relationship was closer than that." "It is, Your Grace," Caleb actually let the beginning of a smile form, before dismissing it. "Things change, circumstances change. No longer are you the young man growing up around your father's guards. Now you are the Duke of Realto, and Prince of Aithen. It is time you realized that." "I know what my responsibilities are, Master Caleb," Micah replied brusquely. "I only ask that in less formal settings you are less formal." "I can do that, Master Micah," Caleb smiled. "As I was saying, we've had scouts out all night. There are armed men out looking for you. The word is being spread that you had your father killed to assume his title." "What!" Micah screamed, alerting the whole camp. His outburst roused the already restless Isabelle, who sat up rubbing the sleep from her eyes, "Micah?" Setting his cup down, he got up and went over to her and kneeled at her side, "I'm here, Isabelle. Everything will be alright." "Why did you scream?" she asked, fully awake. "I had just received some disturbing news and didn't have control of my emotions," he smiled, moving a stray hair away from her eyes. "I'm fine now; would you like something to drink?" She answered in the affirmative, and Micah got up and fetched her a cup of the strong brew. She smiled at him and took the cup. Micah went back over to the fire and Master Caleb. "Sorry about the outburst," he smiled sheepishly. "That caught me by surprise. Any other surprises?" "Well, the manor is housing a full company of guardsmen from House Beadle," Caleb replied. "Apparently, Duke Calan Beadle has declared martial law in the city to keep order, and has men out looking for you." "How did a contingent of his men just happen to be in Realto?" Micah asked. "Father never said anything about hosting another House's guardsmen." "Yes, it is convenient that they happened to be in Realto on the morning after an assassination attempt on the duchy's ruling family," Caleb replied. "Very convenient." "Any news from Aithen?" Micah asked. "Have we been in contact with the King?" "No news coming from the palace," Caleb replied. "Anything from Master Aaron?" "No, and that has me worried," Micah shook his head. "He was pretty specific about his token, and how it was to be used in emergencies. I rather expected to find him here when I awoke. I fear something may have happened to him as well as my uncle." "I agree," Caleb nodded. "We need good information out of Aithen. Could Isabelle contact her guild there?" "Normally I would say yes," Micah replied. "However, if there is trouble in Aithen, and the Sorcerers' Guild is involved, she would be giving away her location, as well as ours. No, we need another way, and I may just have one. Do you have a trusted messenger, really trustworthy?" Caleb said he did and then called a young guardsman over. Micah quickly scribbled a note on parchment, folded it, and grabbed a punk out of the fire. He heated some wax, and sealed the note with the ducal ring he wore around his neck. Handing the guardsman the note and the non-enchanted coin with Aaron's marks, he tasked the guardsman with its delivery. The guardsman saluted his liege and left the camp. "Now we wait," Micah said. "I want scouts in the city. I want to know guard strength, and also I want to know who is still loyal to the House of Blackmoon. That's my home they're enjoying, and I want it back!" Caleb saluted his liege with a huge smile on his face and went about on the Duke's business. He talked with Master Landon for several hours and they developed a plan to contact certain forces loyal to House Blackmoon to rally support. The plan to re-take Realto had begun. ------- Lord Gnola was feeling on top of the world this morning. With the removal of several thorns in his side, his life's ambition was close to being fulfilled. A few more tasks for his master and he would have cleared away all of the obstacles in his way. His musings were interrupted by a presence forming in his bed chambers. His master required him. By the time the cloaked entity had manifested itself in the room Lord Gnola was already genuflecting. "Well done, Lord Gnola! Well done!" the entity praised. "We are close, just one or two things more and you will have everything you deserve." "Thank you, My Master," Lord Gnola gushed. It was almost sickening to see a gnome gush. "I live to serve you." "Yes, yes you do," the entity replied chuckling. "What of Whiterune?" "We are checking, My Master," Lord Gnola groveled. It was worse than gushing! "We haven't found a body, but no one could have survived that attack." "Then he lives, and you have failed me," the entity stretched forth his hand as red lightning struck the screaming huddled shape on the floor. "Pray this is the last time. Find him and kill him," the entity faded, and with it the lightning. Gnola continued to thrash around on the floor. ------- Master Drexil was on his way to the Central Quarter after receiving a summons from the 'council'. It was in fact his first official summons after assuming the master position of the entire Thieves' Guild. Arriving at the 'Deathmark' taproom, Drexil presented his token to the bartender who placed it in a depression behind the bar, which caused a section of the back wall to open up revealing a secret room. Entering the room, Drexil waited for the opening to close before knocking three times. Upon hearing "enter, Master Drexil", he opened the door and entered the council chambers and genuflected. "Arise, Master Drexil," Lord Gnola commanded. "I'll get right to the point. The 'council' wants to know where your loyalties lie." "My loyalties, my lords?" Drexil asked, rising to stand before the assembled masters, and noticed a slight tick in Lord Gnola's face. "Yes, Master Drexil. A simple question," Lord Elwes replied. "To whom do your loyalties lie?" "To my guild, my house, and the 'council', my lords," Drexil replied firmly. "Are they in question, my lords?" "No, not specifically, Master Drexil," Lord Remy replied. "If you had information that would benefit this council at the detriment to a personal relationship, would you withhold it?" "No, my lords," Drexil replied, "and I have not, nor ever would. Why?" "Again, nothing specific, Master Drexil. Be at ease," Lord Qatar replied. "We have reason to believe Lord Whiterune has conspired against us," Lord Qatar entered the discussion. "We know he championed your promotion and we want to know if that colors your responsibility to the three things you stated you hold dear." "No, not at all," Lord Drexil shook his head. "If Lord Whiterune has conspired against us, then he should be found and reckoned with. I'll put my watchers on it right away." "Yes, do that, but do not act without authorization from us," Lord Elwes stated. "He is dangerous, and caution should rule the day." "Yes, my lords," Drexil replied, genuflecting. "It will be as you direct." "Arise, Master Drexil. You have business to attend to," Lord Gnola commanded. Drexil stood and bowed, backing out of the room. The door closed and he turned around in time to walk out through the secret access which slid open. The section of wall closed as Drexil returned to the bar and collected his token. Putting it away, he walked out of the taproom without looking back and made his way out of the Central Quarter. "Lord Aaron, what have you gotten yourself into," he thought, shaking his head. "I hope you're alright. Damn, I hope I'm alright." ------- The young guardsman, Kent was his name, snuck into the city and headed toward the upper city gates. Melding into the flow of traffic into the upper city, he approached the manned gates and was stopped briefly, but then passed through when the guards' attention was drawn to other travelers. Heading toward the guild halls, he stopped in front of the Thieves' Guild and after looking around knocked on the door. When no one acknowledged, he knocked again. After the fourth such attempt the door finally cracked open and a elderly woman stuck her head out. "I wish to speak to the Guildmaster on an urgent matter," Kent passed the gold coin to the woman. Taking the coin and flipping it over she replied, "come inside." He followed her into a waiting area and stopped where she directed him. She went over to a door, knocked and opened it, sticking her head in and spoke. Lifting her head back she held open the door and bid Kent enter, handing him back the coin. Kent entered the door which closed behind him and walked up to the desk where a man was standing. "Are you the Guildmaster for the Thieves' Guild?" he asked. "Yes, my name is Nathan York," Master Nathan replied. "What can I do for you?" "My liege needs to get this message to Master Drexil," Kent replied, holding the sealed note. "He was told that in dire straits you could be counted on." "For a bearer of that coin, I would move mountains," Nathan replied. "I'll get this message out right away. If it is as important as that coin suggests, you might want to stay close and check back later. If nothing else, there may be a reply to the letter being received." Kent agreed with the master, thanked him for his time, and handed over the message. He left the guildhall and headed for a tavern to wait. Nathan looked at the seal on the message and whistled. The Thieves' Guild had the best communication system in the five realms, better than the Sorcerers' or Merchants' Guild. It was rumored to be better than the King's, which in fact it was. It had been in place for so long even the Guild didn't know how it worked, only that it did. Its use was religiously guarded by the masters and only a master could, or had the necessary knowledge to, use it. After locking his door, Nathan moved to the wall behind his desk and pushed on a specific spot. Hearing the click, Nathan moved to another spot and pushed, swinging a section of the wall in, and entered a secret room. In the corner was a box, made of an unidentified blonde colored wood. There were runes delicately carved all over the box and the hinged lid. Nathan opened the lid and set the letter inside, closing the lid again. Placing his hand on the top he pictured the box, and then the one exactly like it in the Guildmaster's office in Aithen. Opening the box again to ensure it was empty, Nathan left the room and went over to his door and unlocked it. Nathan poured himself a drink from his sidebar and sat back in his seat with a sigh. ------- Drexil had been looking for answers ever since his meeting with the 'council' earlier in the day. The facts were slim and none of them made any sense at all. The King and Chamberlain Walton had died the previous evening of some fatal disease, right before the start of the ball. Their bodies were under quarantine based upon possible spread of the disease. The Queen had finally passed away, apparently in her sleep. Some type of fire based explosion occurred in the upper city just inside the gates, which were unmanned, which in itself was unheard of. A burned out shell of a carriage and several piles of ash were the only evidence left behind at the scene. His liege was missing as well as the dark elf and two women, one of which was his liege's ward, while the other was under the protection of his liege. Even stranger were the reports that a dark elf was being sought out for questioning in the abduction of two women. There was definitely a power struggle going on and his liege was smack dab in the middle. His musings were interrupted by a small glow under his desk lid, signaling a message. Entering a secret room he checked the secret box and found a sealed letter from Realto. Turning it over he saw that it bore the seal of the Duke, and took it to his desk and broke the seal. The letter's contents worried Drexil: the Duke dead, murdered by assassins dressed all in black. And Micah, the Duke's son was reported to be the prime suspect, which didn't make any sense. Also, what were House Beadle's guardsmen doing that far from Aithen? The King dead of an unexplained illness or disease, the Duke murdered in the night, his son branded an outlaw, and Lord Aaron missing; too many coincidences, way too many. He drafted a quick note to the young Duke, sealed it and sent it back to Realto. After sending the letter he began his own investigation. When Lord Aaron returned, and Drexil was sure he would, he wanted to have all the information that his lord might need. He would start with House Beadle. He knew that soon his investigation would take him to places he would rather stay away from, but his lord would want to know who was involved. His lord would want retribution! ------- As soon as it turned dusk, they snuck out of the house with Rac-Nur in the lead scanning his surroundings for danger. Leaving the residential district of middle city they slowly and cautiously made their way to the gates for the upper city. There was a larger crowd at the upper city gates and Rac-Nur steered them into the throng of people. A number of them were holding candles and some were weeping. The crowd passed through the gates of the upper city and moved toward the palace. Rac-Nur noticed scorch marks on the cobblestone streets and on several stone buildings facing the thoroughfare. Pointing them out to the ladies as the area where they were attacked, Rac-Nur began to search the area as the crowd stopped at the palace gates where a large crowd of people were already gathered. The flags were at half-mast as black drapes covered the crest of the House of Blackmoon on the palace gates. These people were mourners and they were mourning their dead King! Rac-Nur looked around and began slowly inching his small group back away from the gates. Fortunately a small group was leaving and they slipped in amongst the mourners. They passed back through the upper city gates into the middle city and stayed within the group headed toward the middle city gates. They passed unmolested into the lower city and broke away from the group and headed toward the Merchant Quarter and the 'Golden Pony'. Arriving at the inn, Rac-Nur directed them around back and into the stables. Leaving them hidden in a stall, he snuck out to the back door and knocked. The door to the kitchen opened slightly and a woman holding a large cleaver looked out. "What do you want?" she asked, trying to see his features within the hooded cloak. "I wish to speak to Master Raymond," Rac-Nur answered, passing the gold coin to the woman. Taking the coin she looked at it and gasped. Telling him to wait she closed the door. Rac-Nur tested his swords in their scabbards and looked around for any movement. A few moments later the door opened and a man beckoned Rac-Nur in and introduced himself as Raymond. "There are others," he stated, shaking his head. "Go get them, and then come back," the man replied. "I'll wait here." Rac-Nur nodded and left to fetch the women from the stables. Bringing them back the man ushered them into the kitchen and then looked both left and right before shutting and locking the door. Turning around he handed Rac-Nur the coin. "Master Aaron told me that if you ever needed help that I was to supply it," Raymond looked them over. "Have you eaten today?" "Not very much," Rac-Nur replied. "The ladies will require food." "Come, sweeties, I'll make you some dinner," the woman interjected, putting her hands around the two women. Rac-Nur vaguely explained their situation to the innkeeper. The innkeeper, who introduced himself as Raymond, thought for a moment and then told them that he ran a wagon back and forth several times a month to a farm east of Aithen that supplied the inn with mead. He could have his son drive the wagon with Rac-Nur's party hidden onboard out to the farm, where they could procure mounts for their journey east. They were interrupted by Raymond's son Brian. "Father! Father, there are men in the front that want to search the inn," Brian announced breathlessly. "They're not wearing the livery of Aithen. They're demanding that you come out front and let them search the premises." Looking at Rac-Nur, he continued, "They say they are looking for an assassin, a Dark Elf Assassin! What are we to do?" "Marie! Take them to the storeroom," Raymond called out. "Hide them in the room." Raymond left the kitchen through the same door that Brian had come through, while Marie hurried them into a short hallway and down into a cellar storeroom. Moving a barrel out of the way she opened a hidden trap door and had them climb down into the darkness, closing the trap door behind them. Rac-Nur had no trouble navigating the small storeroom in the dark, so he helped the ladies to a couple of barrels to sit on, and they waited. Several moments later, Rac-Nur heard noises from above and motioned for the ladies to back up to the wall and once again he tested his swords in their scabbards and waited. The hatch finally opened and Marie called down to them and let them know it was safe to come out. Rac-Nur motioned for the women to keep quiet and he climbed the ladder and after making sure that everything was as it seemed, called the women up. "They're looking for a dark elf in the company of two women," Raymond explained. "They say you have enchanted them and then kidnapped them. You're going to have to be very careful." "Can we leave in the morning?" Rac-Nur asked. "Yes. I'll have Brian drive the wagon and we'll hide you under the floor boards. There's a hidden compartment under the floor," Raymond smiled. "We use it to bring in items that might otherwise be confiscated at the front gates. You can leave at first light." "That will be acceptable," Rac-Nur replied, nodding. "Did you recognize the livery of the guardsmen?" "Yes. They wore the livery of House Beadle," Raymond replied. "With the death of the King, Duke Beadle has stepped in as Steward until a more permanent solution can be found. Rac-Nur, they are looking for you hard. Be careful." "I will," Rac-Nur replied. "If you see my master, tell him we have gone to investigate the upstairs. He will understand." "I promise to," Raymond replied. "Marie has set up one of the unused rooms for you tonight. I'm sorry that there is only one room with two beds, but it's the most secure room, and it's close to the kitchen." "That will not be a problem," Rac-Nur replied. "I do not require sleep in the same way that humans do. The ladies will use the room and I will protect them while they sleep." Raymond showed them the room, and Rac-Nur waited outside for them to clean up and get ready for bed. When they were ready Rac-Nur entered and leaned a chair against the door and took up position to the right of the opening. Bidding the ladies goodnight, Rac-Nur removed his swords and sat down cross-legged between the doorway and the beds, swords lain across his thighs. ------- Kent returned to the Thieves' Guild several hours later and was admitted to the guildmaster's office. Master Nathan handed him a sealed message and told him to tell his liege that the local guild would help in any way possible. He cautioned the young guardsman that if were to get caught with that message, a number of people would lose their lives. The guardsman promised discretion and caution and left the hall. Nathan York dropped in his chair and worried about his immediate future. Young Kent slipped through the city undetected and entered the forest and made his way to the camp. ------- Micah was concerned, the messenger wasn't back yet and he needed information out of Aithen. He was discussing their options with his commanders, and Masters Landon, and Caleb, when the meeting was interrupted by a guard escorting the messenger, Kent. Kent handed the message over and Micah thanked him and dismissed him to eat and relax. Breaking the seal he read the message from Master Drexil, and visibly paled. "What is it? What is the matter?" Caleb asked standing up. "My uncle is dead," Micah replied, with a shocked look on his face. Setting the note down, he looked up at the faces staring at him. "He died of some infectious disease," Micah spat the words out. "Chamberlain Walton, the court sorcerer is dead as well, apparently from the same disease. I remember my father had an infectious illness." "What of Master Aaron?" Caleb leaned forward. "Missing, presumed dead," Micah replied, devoid of all emotion. "No body was found, though." "Well, then I don't believe it," Caleb stated matter of factly. "If there isn't a body, then that's just wishful thinking on somebody's part. Master Aaron is alive; I'd place money on it." "Well, you know him better," Micah nodded. "With my uncle dead there will be no help from Aithen. We are in this alone. To make matters worse, Duke Beadle has been temporarily declared Steward, until the line of succession can be worked out. Provided I am dead, of course." "Master Caleb, Master Landon, what are our forces?" Micah steeled himself to the deaths and turned toward the Swordmasters. "Too few, Your Grace," Caleb replied. "Perhaps 40-50 men, half rangers, half guardsmen." "Not enough to attack Realto, reinforced with a full company," Master Landon interjected. "Why do we have to attack Realto?" Micah asked. "Those men were loyal to my father; they should be loyal to me." "That is true, they were loyal to your father," Master Caleb agreed. "The news that you were behind the assassination may have turned them against you. Before we confront Beadle's troops we need to win back ours. That may take a little time." "Then that is what we'll do," Micah nodded in agreement. "We win back their hearts, and then we win back the town." ------- Chapter 12 Rac-Nur had the ladies dressed and ready before dawn. There was a knock on the door and Raymond led them to the barn where a large freight wagon was hitched to a team of oxen. The floor boards were set aside, and Brian helped the ladies climb up in the space that would be hidden beneath the bed and get in position. Rac-Nur thanked Raymond for his many courtesies and services and reminded him of the message for his liege. Climbing up into the secret compartment, Rac-Nur got in place and Raymond and Brian set the floor boards into place and loaded the empty mead barrels in the bed. Raymond grasped his son's forearm, wished him safe travels and went and opened the stable doors. Brian jumped up into the driver's seat and shook the reins, starting the oxen forward. After the wagon cleared the stable, Raymond closed the doors and watched his son drive off. Rac-Nur felt the wagon lurch forward, signaling the start of their journey. It was several moments later when the wagon came to a halt and they could hear muffled talking. They felt the wagon sag a little, as if someone had climbed into the bed. There was a lot of scraping going on above them and Rac-Nur prepared himself if they were discovered. Moments passed before the wagon lurched forward again about a half an hour later the wagon came to a halt again, the wagon sagged and scraping could be heard again. One of the floor boards was pulled away and they looked up to see Brian with a big smile on his face. Reaching his hand down he helped Rac-Nur out first and then the two helped each lady out in turn. The ladies sat up in the seat while Brian and Rac-Nur moved the floor boards back in place and re-secured the load. ------- Captain Snyder had his company turned out in front of the guildhall. First platoon was packed and ready to move out. Second platoon would follow in a week. Several wagons were hitched and ready to move as well. "Lieutenant Murray, second platoon is yours," Captain Snyder commanded. "I expect you to leave as soon as possible. "Yes sir!" Lieutenant Murray raised his sword in salute. "Second platoon, present arms!" "Lieutenant Williams, make first platoon ready to move out," the captain commanded his second for this deployment. "First platoon, prepare to mount!" Lieutenant Williams commanded. "First platoon, mount!" the lieutenant brought his sword up in an answering salute and ordered the platoon forward. The platoon and support wagons did not get far before Captain Snyder called a halt, waiting in an outbound line at the main gates. It seemed that the city guard was inspecting outbound traffic. Finally moving up to the gates, the captain conferred with the city guard and was waved on through. Calling for the platoon to head out, they turned east toward Realto. Ahead to the right the captain saw a freight wagon pulled over off the side of the highway. ------- Brian had just finished tying down the barrels when Rac-Nur looked up and saw a mounted column of guardsmen traveling down the highway, coming straight at them. Rac-Nur tested his swords in their scabbards and then noticed the flag flying from the guidon bearer's pole. It was a silver bounding hart on a sky blue field! Rac-Nur quickly jumped over the barrels to where Lady Anastasia was sitting at the front of the wagon and quickly spoke in her ear. She turned and looked at him intently, to which he nodded emphatically and smiled. Lady Anastasia quickly explained to Lady Laura and then climbed down from the wagon and walked up to the side of the highway. Lady Laura quickly jumped down and caught up with her, looked at the lead guardsman, and spoke softly to her. Lady Anastasia nodded and waited for the lead horse to come closer. ------- Captain Snyder saw the freight wagon on the side of the highway, and watched the two women get down and walk up to the edge of the highway. "Good morning Captain," Anastasia called out. "I'm glad we were able to catch you before you traveled too far down the highway." "Good morning miss," Captain Snyder touched his forehead, and called a halt to the troop. "Why were you trying to catch us?" "I am Anastasia Whiterune, Marquise de la Rose," Anastasia replied. "We are traveling east to Realto, and I will require an escort. Your coming through here was fortuitous." "Lord Aaron does in fact have a ward, but her name is Anastasia de Ponce," the captain countered. "Forgive my asking, but since you are currently traveling in a freight wagon, do you have any proof of your claim?" "I chose to take the name of my guardian," Anastasia explained, handing him the coin Aaron gave her. "There is my proof." The captain took the coin and studied it and turned it over studying the other side. He returned the coin to her and smiled. "My apologizes, my lady," Captain Snyder saluted. "We would be honored to provide you escort to Realto or wherever you wish to go. I did promise your guardian that I would arrive at the castle as soon as possible, though." "My dear Captain, I have no intention of slowing you down," Lady Anastasia smiled. "I know how important your trip is to Lord Aaron. If you would provide accommodations for three, we can leave at once." "Very good, my lady," Captain Snyder replied. "The troop is not in possession of a coach, would a wagon suffice?" "Yes, Lady Laura and I can ride in a wagon," she replied. "My protector, Rac-Nur, will require a mount, do you have a spare?" "Yes, my lady," Captain Snyder replied. "Sergeant Underwood, have a mount sent up for Lady Anastasia's protector, and make room for the ladies on the supply wagon. Let the men know that Lady Anastasia and guest will be traveling with us to Realto." The sergeant acknowledged the commands of the captain and then had a wagon and a mount brought to the front of the column. The ladies bid Brian goodbye and thanked him for getting them this far. Brian waved goodbye and moved his team forward. He still had a pickup to make and he needed to get back to Aithen before dark. The sergeant helped the ladies up into the wagon and after providing a mount for Rac-Nur, the troop was again ready to travel. The captain gave the commands, and the troop moved out. ------- Tanith was concerned. Aaron wasn't getting any better. He also wasn't getting any worse, but that was little consolation. She needed to do something that would spark his spirit to return. She had an idea, but it was risky, but as she had no other options: no risk, no reward. The original reason she chose this particular mountain for her lair was because of the strong presence of Eldritch emanating from the area. Her lair entrance was an old lava tube that she expanded and blocked at the bottom chamber. During the excavation she found another side lava tube leading deeper into the mountain and ending in another chamber, but much larger, with a bubbling pool dominating the center. Not a pool of lava, but of pure energy, of pure Eldritch. Not that Eldritch existed in a liquid state, per se, but the energy was so intense, so concentrated in the pool that it coalesced into a visible fluid state. The pool of Eldritch was silver in color with the consistency of quicksilver. The bubbles were diffuse Eldritch rising to the surface from deep within the subterranean rock. Eldritch normally existed in a diffused state, its energy released from every animal, plant, and mineral, like a low level fog, everywhere but not concentrated anywhere. Those that could sense it and access it, pulled the diffuse energy into their beings and concentrated it into a more usable state, focusing it, if you will. It was an invisible force permeating everything and connecting everything. The chamber was huge and the pool was large enough for Tanith to use while in her true shape. Not that she would ever enter the pool, no, that would be akin to suicide. She was a thing of Eldritch, so submerging herself in the pool would unmake her. No, her plan was to submerge Aaron within the pool and hope that the Eldritch healed him and returned him to her. She moved him from the bed he was in, down the lava tube and into the chamber. She gently slid him into the pool and stepped back, from the pool's edge. At first he just floated on his back out to the middle of the pool. Eventually he lost the bubble, tipped sideways and slipped under the surface, disappearing completely. Tanith waited several moments with bated breath for something to happen, either positive or negative. The surface of the pool began to boil and froth and finally erupted in a spray of silvery light, as Aaron's body rose vertically into the air. Aaron was clearly still unconscious, head slumped forward, arms and legs dangling, body slowly turning around. Flares of Eldritch erupted from the pool and streaked upward striking Aaron's body in the chest, causing his arms and legs to flail with every strike. With every strike of Eldritch, Aaron's body image began to flash with the image of the scaled hulks from the 'Hall of Kings'. It was as if his essence was changing, changing from humanoid to something else entirely. Tanith's gasp of surprise reverberated off the walls of the cavern. The obvious transformation went on for several moments until the eruptions finally subsided and Aaron's body slowly descended into the pool submerging completely. A few moments later, his body surfaced and slowly moved toward the pool's edge and Tanith, where it beached on the shore. Aaron's chest gave a big heaving sigh and his eyes fluttered open. "What happen? Where am I?" he croaked a whisper. "Shh, rest, you're safe," Tanith stroked his head. "Just rest." Aaron nodded and closed his eyes slipping into a restful sleep. Tanith smiled and moved him back to her lair and put him back in bed. She could feel that he was sleeping and she could feel his strength returning through the bond. He would recover, of that she was certain. ------- The status of Swordmaster was unique among the masters of the various guilds. No other master carried the innate respect of the populace like a Swordmaster. He may be called upon to adjudicate disagreements or displays of swordsmanship, and as such his word was his bond and above reproach. Arbiter of duels, sole judge of skills, the Swordmaster was welcome in any town, regardless of guild affiliation. Master Landon, Micah's mentor and teacher entered Realto and passed through the inner city gates with no troubles. The gates were doubly manned and everyone was checked, both coming and going. Master Landon was stopped, but after the guard saw the black cord, he passed Master Landon through with no further inquires. Master Landon noted that the guards were not from Realto, but Aithen, and they bore the livery of House Beadle. He observed their movements, procedures, and protocol, and then headed toward the guildhalls and his destination: the Sorcerers' Guild. He spent an hour or so in quiet discussion with Master Ragnar, head of the guild. What he learned encouraged him. Elsewhere, throughout the city, various emissaries of Micah's visited the different guilds and residents loyal to the Blackmoons, and were encouraged as well. It seemed as if the lies spread about Micah's supposed involvement in the death of Duke Thandar had fallen on deaf ears. Micah had more support than first thought, so the planning of the battle to retake Realto began in earnest. ------- The Duchy of Creton was the northern most city-state of the Central Plains and was the trade gateway to the Northern Reaches. Built into the side of a natural cliff in the foothills of the Dragon Back Mountains, it was initially used as a fortified frontier outpost, holding back the marauding hordes of the Northern Reaches. After the Creton Peace Accords it became a trading outpost for the nomadic tribes of the northern Central Plains and a stopping point for trade caravans on their way through the mountain passes and into the Northern Reaches. The city itself was enclosed within two walls, curved outward from the cliff and ending at the front of the city in a pair of gates. The ducal palace was the only portion left still built into the cliff, while the rest of the city sprawled out on the floor of the plains, behind the stone walls. It was home to a diverse population of humans, dwarves, gnomes, and even a small community of goblins. Many of the large merchant houses maintained holdings within the city, and some even had offices. The major guilds also called Creton home, and it was also the headquarters of the sub-sect of the Assassins' Guild known as the 'Black Hand'. The Black Hand held a small office within the city gates, the actual location of the guild was unknown, as were their members and total numbers; even how they were recruited, and their training practices were all closely guarded secrets. They were a specialized cadre of assassins that worked in small squad style groups, as opposed to the more general lone wolf assassin. Their fee was non-negotiable and set at 100 gold pieces per individual contract, or 1000 gold pieces per squad for a larger operation. The current Duke of Creton was Gunter Farhewer II, nephew of the old duke who had passed away the previous winter. He was his uncle's sister-son and at 20 summers was unmarried and although good looking, had few prospects. He had a plan in motion that would soon rectify that. However, his point man had not checked in recently, and was missing. The Duke was worried enough to send his most trusted agent, Master Ruk Telemar, 3rd level Master Thief. Master Telemar made use of his liege's goblin wizard to teleport him to the camp site of the men responsible for delivering his liege's soon to be bride, only to find the camp empty. He began his search there. ------- Lord Devlin was again making preparations to call forth additional aid. Having lost three knights, one of whom had been the captain of his guard, he needed to re-fill his ranks. Tomorrow would be another full moon, the perfect night for necromancy. This time, however, he would have his knights to aid him. This time he would add one more to the nine, a champion; Lord Devlin chuckled at the thought. At sunset the following evening the procession entered the chapel and took up positions around the altar. A young virginal girl was bound naked and spread-eagled on the altar in preparation. Glassy eyes revealed the drug induced stupor preventing her from fully realizing her fate. The six remaining knights flanked the altar on both sides while Lord Devlin took up his position at the head of the altar looking down at the young girl. To the left of the altar, burnt into the floor, was a pentagram with lit human tallow candles at the points, and a smaller lit brazier in the top triangle. Lord Devlin held his hands out and up in silent supplication, before starting a magical chant, head hung low and eyes closed. The chanting reached a crescendo when Lord Devlin lifted his head and opened his eyes. Eyes rolled back in his head, and Eldritch crackling from his finger tips, he reached over and placed his left hand above the girl's face and flexed his fingers. Her body arched up and, despite her drugged state, she began screaming as tendrils of white energy began flowing from her face into Lord Devlin's palm. A small white ball of energy, the size and shape of a ripe date, flowed from her head, which Lord Devlin caught gently out of the air. The young girl slumped back onto the altar as Lord Devlin extended his right hand, fingers together, and gently slid the hand into her chest and removed her beating heart. Stepping down from the altar he used the still beating heart to draw a line of blood, connecting the five points and completing the pentagram. Lord Devlin set the heart on the brazier which caused the room to be filled with a sickly sweet, noxious, smoke as a form began to manifest itself in the center of the pentagram. "What do you offer?" the form asked, becoming a tall well groomed man, impeccably dressed, the only indication that he was anything other then what he seemed his eyes - burning red eyes. "A pure soul, Lord Belial," Lord Devlin held the tiny white ball of energy out at arm's length. "Acceptable. What do you require?" Lord Belial, Crown Prince of Hell, asked. "A mighty Prince of Thangdaemon was slain not far from here," Lord Devlin explained. "I request the location of the body." "Hmm, name?" Lord Belial asked, a small smile forming. "Velen, Prince Velen," Lord Devlin replied. Lord Belial brought his right hand up, fist closed and concentrated on the hand. When he was done he opened his hand revealing a small red gem. The gem floated off his palm and toward Lord Devlin. Lord Devlin released the ball of white light and it floated across the pentagram, passing the gem and landing in the outstretched palm of Lord Belial's hand. The red gem landed in the palm of Lord Devlin's hand. Both closed their hands at the same time. Lord Belial sighed and smiled. "The gem will lead you to his final resting place," Lord Belial explained. "When it is at its brightest, place it in the dirt and it will do the rest." "Thank you, Lord Belial," Lord Devlin replied, looking at his closed fist. "Is there further need?" Lord Belial asked, the ecstasy plain in his voice. "No, Lord Belial," Lord Devlin replied. Lord Belial faded into the floor and was gone. Lord Devlin turned back to the altar and completed the ritual by slitting the young girl's throat. Oddly enough, no blood flowed from the wound; it was as if the body was devoid of all bodily fluids. Lord Devlin flexed his fingers and the bonds holding the body were undone and the body floated up into the air. Lord Devlin turned and left the chapel followed by the body and then the knights. Leaving the tower, he flicked his wrist and the body flew over toward several skulking wolves, who descended on it, growling as they tore it apart. Lord Devlin turned north and took out the gem and set it in his palm, watching the gem for any changes. The gem led them on a north-westerly course for most of an hour before turning them due west for another hour. The full moon had just risen when the gem pulsed the strongest, signaling the location of Prince Velen's final resting place. A battle had been fought here, Tarran against Elfen, with Thangdaemon on both sides. In the end the Thangdaemon had paid the highest price. It was time for the Thangdaemon to receive payment. Using his staff he began to draw protection runes in the dirt and ash around him. The dead did not like being disturbed, and while Lord Devlin was powerful, even he didn't like to take chances. With the preparations complete and the moon high in the night sky, Lord Devlin began the incantations to bring forth the dead. Chanting in an ancient tongue, Lord Devlin called forth his minions. Red tendrils of magic flowed forth from his staff across the burnt landscape, entering the ground at three separate locations. Other tendrils rose into the air toward the moon, turning it red, the color of blood. Fog began to rise from the ground as the temperature dropped by several degrees. "My knights, your Lord has need," he called out in that ancient tongue. "Who will answer my call? Who will take up arms in my defense? Who wishes to walk the Material Plane once more? Who wishes to partake in carnal pleasures? Who will answer the call?" The ground began to tremble and stir at the three resting sites. The dirt moved as the dead rose through the swirling mist. The call was answered by three. Three knights from a bygone age sat up and slowly rose from their graves. Three knights bearing tattered draconic heraldry moved toward Lord Devlin's spot. Time was unkind to the dead. Worms fell from rotted mouths behind tarnished helms. Shredded cloth hung from tarnished mail as three knights pulled their swords and genuflected before their lord. Oaths of allegiance were renewed as Lord Devlin's power renewed the three. Mail glistened in the light of the red moon; crimson cloaks fluttered in the evening breeze as the three Thangdaemon Knights stood before their Lord, and took their place beside their brethren. The nine were renewed, now for Prince Velen. "Prince Velen, it is time to return and renew your fight," Lord Devlin placed the stone on the ground. "My Prince, arise and take up your sword." The ground did not shake, the dirt did not move, Prince Velen just rose up, right out of the gem. He was not skeletal, nor worm ridden. His clothes were not in tatters, his mail was not tarnished. Prince Velen looked exactly the same as when he led his army onto this battlefield an age ago. He was tall, at six feet, and slender to the point of appearing almost gaunt, with a very angular face. He had shoulder length white hair, and sea green eyes. He was dressed in black adamantine scale mail, articulated at the various body joints. A sword belt circled his waist, but no scabbard or sword hung from the belt. His red cloak with the Thangdaemon heraldry in black relief fluttered in the breeze. He wore a slim crown on his head. "I am not one of your liche knights to be commanded or ordered about, Lord Devlin," Prince Velen stated, staring at Lord Devlin. "Why then, have you awakened me?" Lord Devlin took a step back, and realized his error in dealing with the Prince of Hell. The gem was not a tracking device, it was Prince Velen's soul and he had unwittingly just released his Prince, and with no control over him. He needed to think fast. "Prince Velen, I thought you might enjoy the subjugation of this age," Lord Devlin smiled and bowed. "We will continue that discussion at a later date," Prince Velen commanded. "'Nightrune' is no longer at my side, I require a sword, Lord Devlin. A sword that befits a Thangdaemon Prince!" "I know of such a sword, Your Highness," Lord Devlin replied, thinking fast. "What sword, whose sword?" Prince Velen asked impatiently. "Your father's sword," Lord Devlin replied. "'Darksoul'". "Lord Devlin, where is the Black Sword?" Prince Velen asked, with malice in his voice. "And how did you come to possess it?" "I recovered it when he fell and have it at my tower," Lord Devlin replied. "When did he fall, Lord Devlin?" Prince Vellen asked. "And how did you happen to be there and not suffer the same fate?" "After your defeat here, he was not the same, part of him died with you. He and the council devised a plan that would end the war. He was on his way back from a secret meeting and was waylaid by Elfen Witches before he could return to Castle Daemongurd," Lord Devlin explained. "I was not with him, but came when he called, already mortally wounded." "And you could not save him?" Prince Velen arched an eyebrow. "No, Your Highness, 'Darksoul' claimed him first," Lord Devlin explained. "I took the sword and returned to my tower to hide it." "Then let us return to your tower and retrieve it," Prince Velen commanded. "By your command, Your Highness," Lord Devlin stamped the ground with the Staff of Power and teleported them to the Black Tower. ------- Aaron had been in and out of consciousness throughout the evening and preceding day, although he was more in a sleep state than an actual coma. Tanith made sure he had sustenance as well as Eldritch; his body was burning the power as fuel. She noted that after being in the pool his body actually pulled faster then she pushed. The pool had expanded his abilities somehow, exactly to what extent she wasn't quite sure. It was interesting to also note that, the runes on his swords glowed all the time now. She was familiar with Runeswords, more on the receiving end, though, but she knew that they were receiving Eldritch from Aaron, even in his unconscious state. She left him for longer periods of time now, less worried that he needed her by his side. She needed to eat; her body did not process Eldritch as fuel, although, for that matter, his should not do so either. The breaks gave her the opportunity to feed and stretch her wings in exercise and to just get out of the lair. She could feel him through the bond getting stronger every day. ------- "Milady! Milady!" the Godling called out. "There are disturbing events happening on the Material Plane." "Yes, what is it?" Lady Rannath asked fading into view. "Lord Devlin has replenished his knights, Milady," the Godling reported. "More importantly, Prince Velen walks the Material Plane." "Prince Velen? I don't understand, how can that be?" Lady Rannath paled. "We are still checking on the how," the Godling replied. "Also, Milady, the WitchLord is missing. We cannot sense him on any of the known planes of existence." "How long have you been looking for the WitchLord?" Lady Rannath asked. "Are you always keeping a watch on him?" "We just started, when we felt Prince Velen, Milady," the Godling replied. "Continue to look for the WitchLord," Lady Rannath commanded. "And determine how it is that my brother walks the Material Plane, an age or so after the reports of his demise." "Yes, Milady," the Godling replied and faded from view. "Events are unfolding that should not be," Lady Rannath sighed, placing her hands on her swollen belly, and spoke to her unborn son. "The Great Mother was correct. But it will be long before you can swing the pendulum. We need a stop gap. We need an Avenger." "Hmm," she smiled. "Yes, a Justice Bringer. Malak? If you are not encumbered, might I have a word with you?" "Your wish is my command, My Lady," Malak, the God of Truth, replied, fading into view. "How may I serve you?" "We have problems, my dear friend," Rannath sighed. "Lord Devlin is plotting the subjugation of this age, and worse still, Prince Velen has arisen." "Arisen? How is that even possible," Malak asked in shock. "Lord Devlin isn't that foolish, is he?" "I do not know all of the details," Rannath replied. "But in all likelihood I would have to say, yes, he is that foolish, or perhaps that power hungry. Either way, it is the only possible explanation." "By The Three! Prince Velen will destroy the realm for fun, if for no other reason!" Malak declared. "He would loose the denizens of Hell, just because he could." "Yes, he would do that and more, which is exactly why I need your help," Rannath explained. "This age needs a defender, a champion. Do you know where 'Shalamar' is?" "Yes, but the realm doesn't need truth," Malak shook his head. "It needs justice, or at the very least, a defender. What of your champion?" "No, it should be someone of this age, and he may have been born to it, but he is not of this age," Rannath replied. "Besides, I think he plans to withdraw." "Alright, but it should be a defender and not justice," Malak replied. "Justice could be brought against us, so, 'Kalaban' then?" "Yes, if you know where 'Shalamar' is, then 'Kalaban' will be there as well," Rannath explained. "I saw them both in the 'Hall of Kings'." "I will look into it," Malak declared. "If there is nothing further, then by your leave?" "Yes, and Malak, thank you," Rannath smiled, as Lord Malak faded. Fate rarely follows the whims, or plans, of men or Gods. ------- Chapter 13 A brief interlude: Meanwhile, in a small shanty in a seaport town, far to the south: "Dunin? Dunin? It's time to get up," his mother called. Dunin rolled over and sat up, scratching his head. The room was still dark, since it was earlier than even the false dawn. "Another day, another couple of pounds of shrimp," Dunin sighed dejectedly. "I am up, Ma." Dunin was tall for his age of 16. He had started a large growing spurt during the spring, and now at the beginning of summer he was approaching six feet tall. An unruly mop of curly brown hair resisted his best efforts to control it. Splashing tepid water on his face, he tried to remove the last vestiges of sleep from his coal black eyes. Throwing on a pair of shorts that had been trousers just a few months ago, and a faded and stained long sleeve shirt, he pulled aside the curtain that sectioned off his room from the main room of his mother's two room shanty, located off of the wharf district of Re-An, the largest port city in the Southern Reaches. After his father died his mother tried to insist that he take the lone bedroom, but Dunin would have none of that. It was and will always be his parent's room, no, he kept his space behind the curtain. His mother set out breakfast: cheese, fruit, bread and cow's milk, which Dunin consumed in moments. Giving him a kiss on his head and handing him his lunch pail, she wished him good luck and sent him on his way. After he left she sat down at the table with a sigh, looked over at a small covered jar and sighed again. The jar held all of their wealth, which pathetically was not very much. She knew he had dreams of being a merchant-marine, but it seemed as if more came out of the jar than went in. Her sister had offered for her to move to Malkur and live with her there, but that would kill Dunin's dream of entering the academy. If he could bring in enough shrimp, coupled with the meager sum she earned at a local tavern, then maybe, maybe someday ... She sighed dejectedly again. Maybe gold grows from trees too. ------- Reaching the public wharf, Dunin carefully removed his net from the stand he used to store it on and to make any needed repairs. Carefully rolling it up, he hoisted it over his shoulder and walked down to the docks, where his small sailboat was tied up. Loading the boat with the net and his lunch pail, he untied the mooring lines and stepped in, pushing the boat back away from the pier. Rowing away from the pier, Dunin turned and pointed his dinghy out to sea, raised the mainsail and jib, and then piloted his vessel out of the harbor and toward the fishing grounds. The area south of Re-An was an archipelago made up of over 100 different reefs, islets, atolls, cays, and islands. The archipelago had been created from a subduction zone of two oceanic plates, which also created a deep water trench through its center that was used by shipping traffic. Leaving the harbor Dunin sailed south-southwest toward the established fishing grounds. He had shrimped this section for several years now, when the death of his father forced him to become the primary source of income. Not that he wanted to be a shrimper; no, he had dreams of being a merchant-marine. Malkur might be famous for its Guardmen, but the Re-An Merchant-Marine was renowned on all the seas of Andor. Every day after tying up, Dunin would stop by the Merchant Academy and watch the mariner cadets train in the courtyard. Even while he was shrimping he would spend time with a wooden sword, practicing the moves he had seen at the academy. He had visions of rescuing damsels from pirates or boarding black market ships on the high seas. Arriving in the area that he normally shrimped, Dunin threw out his net and began sailing up and down and back and forth. Every few passes he would haul in the net and empty the contents. The wind was not cooperative this day so Dunin pulled in the sails and set the oars in their holders. This was not the first day that oars were required to catch shrimp. Many hours at the oars had built up Dunin's arms, legs and back. He had the strength and stamina of a man years older. This day was a poor day for shrimping, and after several hours of back and forth and up and down he didn't have nearly enough to call it a day. Deciding to move farther south, he hauled in the net, set his sails and started a southerly track. He had traveled several nautical miles down range when he noticed storm clouds forming to the west. Summer squalls were not that uncommon, but this one looked severe and from the wrong direction, so Dunin turned the boat and tried to tack northerly back to the relative safety of the atolls and islets closer to Re-An. He was having zero luck; the sudden onset of the storm took him by surprise, and moved in cutting off his retreat to the north. Dropping the larger mainsail he tried to run with the jib, with a little better result. At least, it didn't sound like the main mast was about to be ripped off. Turning the boat back to the south he decided to make for any large land mass that would provide some protection from the storm. The storm's ferocity surprised the seasoned sailor. He couldn't remember a storm of this magnitude anytime in his past, and he began to worry. The waves picked up and his little boat was too small to cut through them, so he was reduced to riding up one side and down the other. The wind whipped the jib, and Dunin was having a hard time controlling the craft. He had no idea where he was, though definitely farther south than he had ever been before, and the wind was causing him to eat up the nautical miles in great bites. The wind continued to increase until the jib finally ripped free and fluttered away, leaving him completely out of control. Dunin hung on in sheer terror as his boat was rocked and knocked about in the storm. At one point he must have blacked out, because he woke up on a beach to the sound of lapping waves and the screech of gulls overhead. Dunin looked around at what was left of his boat, which wasn't much. Standing up, he walked farther up the beach and looked out at the sea, past the little lagoon. The storm had passed and blew out all the clouds as well. The sky was clear blue and Dunin judged the time by the angle of the sun to be late afternoon. He should have been back by now and knew that shortly his mother would begin to worry. Looking around he discovered a path leading into the underbrush of a jungle, so he took it. The path ended in a small clearing by a pool of clear fresh water. In the middle of the clearing was a small house, seemingly abandoned and falling apart. In front of the home sat a man on a stump in front of a small fire drinking from a steaming cup. To the left of the man a horse was tied to a hitching post, but not just any horse, a warhorse, in shiny silver mail. The man was likewise dressed in a suit of armor, his helmet sitting on another stump just to his right. "Well, come over and let me have a look at you," the knight commanded, for that is what Dunin guessed he was. Dunin stepped up to the knight and appraised him as well. His hair was red and cropped short and his eyes were the color of the sea and twinkled when he smiled, which he was doing right now. He was a handsome man. "Care for a cup?" the knight asked. Dunin nodded and the man poured him a cup of the steaming brew and passed it over. Dunin gladly accepted the cup and smelled the distinct aroma and sighed in contentment. The knight watched him for several moments. "Where are my manners? I have not properly introduced myself," the knight stood. "I am Randolf." "I am called Dunin, Dunin Brandson," Dunin replied. "Pleased to make your acquaintance." "As I am yours," Randolf chuckled, eyeing him intently. Dunin sipped the hot brew as he inspected the clearing, his focus returning time and time again, to the pool, and more importantly, a path that started at the pool. "Go ahead," Randolf chuckled again. "I am not going anywhere, take a chance, take the path." Dunin turned and stared at Randolf with wide eyes, wondering how he knew what Dunin was thinking. Finally nodding to Randolf, but mostly to himself he sat the cup down and walked over to the pool. The pool was fed by a small waterfall coming off a cliff where a path continued up the side of the hill. The path leading up the side of the cliff intrigued him. Not that he understood why, but he felt compelled to climb, so he did. The path wound back and forth up the side of a hill, turning into the side of a mountain. The path ended at a large crevice in the side of the cliff face. Dunin squeezed between the rocks and entered a large cavern in the side of the mountain. Dunin stopped in his tracks in amazement, for standing in front of him were a set of doors. The doors were massive, at least ten feet tall and arched, made of some yellow or blonde wood, banded and riveted in gold. Intricate runes were inscribed on both doors with a large rune inscribed through both doors where they met. Finally, there were two large solid gold pull handles and a keyhole on the left hand door. It was not as if the doors were unattached, no, they were built into a brick wall which flowed right into the sides of the cavern. It was just that the doors dominated the cavern. Having no thought to his own safety, Dunn walked up to the doors and grasped the handles and pulled. Dunin's hands and arms burst into a silvery fire as an intense tingle run up his arms and down his spine. Voices whispered in his head in an unknown language and it frightened him. He tried to let go but was held fast as the rune intersecting the doors flared brightly and went out. The doors creaked a little as they swung open, revealing a magnificent hall. He felt like he had been weighed and measured and found worthy. The hall was separated into three segments by large intricately carved ivory columns, with alcoves on both sides of the hall and a large dais at the far end. Suits of armor stood between the alcoves, their shields bearing an image of a jumping deer. The outer aisles held chests overflowing with gold, platinum, and other precious metals, intermixed with chests overflowing with precious gems, jewelry and other trinkets. Armor, swords, and other instruments of war filled several of the alcoves. Most of the alcoves however, contained tombs for the dead. The tomb alcoves had white wrought metal scalloped gates, while the alcoves holding treasure did not. At the far end, placed on the dais, apparently arranged in some specific pattern, were several black stone blocks, with sword hilts sticking out of them. The stones were arranged in clusters, each cluster on its own separate dais. In the center closest to the back wall on the highest dais rested a single stone with a hand-and-a-half sword hilt sticking out. Just in front of that, on a shorter extension of the same dais, but lower than all the rest, were two stones diagonally in line with the center stone without hilts. A few feet in front of that was another dais lower than the first, but higher than the extension. Two stones sat on that dais, the stone to the left slightly higher, also missing a sword hilt. Diagonally to the left and right of that dais were two more daises, slightly lower, containing three stones of equal height. Eleven stones in all, eight of which contained swords. All the hilts were single handed except the one protruding from the stone on the highest dais. On either side of the steps leading up to the dais stood two large ivory statues. The statues were intricately carved hulking shapes, covered in scales, with taloned hands, pointed ears flat against their skulls, bald with the exception of a single braided stalk of hair in the center of the back of their heads. Dunin shivered at the sight of them. Dunin felt a pull toward the dais, so he completely ignored the gold and jewels, even though just a handful would keep him and his mother in comfort for quite some time, as well as paying his academy entrance fee. What Dunin didn't know was that if he had made a move to take any of those precious items or gold, those two hulks would have stopped him, and not as statues! Dunin stepped between the statues and up the steps to the dais. His focus was on the second tier dais with the two stones, one of which was missing a sword hilt. The one on the right caught his focus and kept it. Dunin walked up to the stone and stared at the sword hilt. He finally reached out and grasped the hilt. "What is your name?" Dunin heard. The voice was calm, pleasant, almost comforting. "Dunin Brandson," Dunin replied. "Who are you?" "I am Kalaban," he heard. "What is your heart's desire, Dunin Brandson?" "To be a merchant-marine," Dunin replied proudly. "So I can defend the ships at sea. To defend those needing protection." "So, you want to be a champion of the defenseless?" Kalaban asked. "Yes, yes I do, more than anything," Dunin replied. "Can you help me?" "Will you be my wielder, Dunin Brandson?" Kalaban asked. "I can keep you?" Dunin asked incredulously. "Will you be my wielder?" Kalaban asked patiently. "Yes, oh yes!" Dunin replied enthusiastically. "Then I will be your sword, and together we will defend the defenseless, protect the needy, and champion the downtrodden!" Kalaban proclaimed. "Pull me from the stone, My Lord." Dunin pulled and Kalaban slid from the stone as easily as pulling a stick out of mud. Dunin held the sword aloft, runes carved down the blade glowing with a silvery light. BEHOLD, I AM KALABAN, THE CRYSTAL SWORD, THE DEFENDER," Kalaban proclaimed. Dunin looked at the sword in awe. Kalaban was a longsword, runes carved deeply on both sides of the blade, a straight cross piece, with a black leather wrapped grip, and a red gem set in the pommel. He looked down in surprise as a sword belt and scabbard appeared at his waist. The hall began to shimmer and fade from view until it completely disappeared, leaving Dunin standing in a vast cavern. At his feet was a small open chest filled with gold and jewels and a mailed shirt draped across the lid. "My Lord, it is time to leave," Kalaban told him. "The shirt and chest are gifts, put the shirt on and wear it always." Dunnin sheathed Kalaban and removed his shirt. Picking up the mailed shirt he marveled at the weight and flexibility of the delicately wrought silver chain. The mail was lined with a fine fabric which breathed and prevented chaffing. The shirt fit perfectly and Dunin tested his movement and was surprised to find that he had full range of motion and the shirt didn't inhibit him in the least. Closing the lid of the chest he picked it up and tucked in under his arm. Leaving the cavern he squeezed back through the crevice and started the slow descent back to the clearing. Randolf was waiting just like he said he would be and raised an eyebrow at the sword buckled to his waist. "Well, well, what have we here?" Randolf chuckled. "I see your inquisitive nature was rewarded." "Yes, isn't it wonderful?" Dunin asked, drawing his sword, whose runes glowed with a silvery light. "It has a name and it speaks to me." "Dunin, a word to the wise," Randolf spoke to him in a fatherly voice. "Keep your sword's remarkable talents a closely guarded secret. Most people would not understand, and the ones that do would try and claim it for their own. And hide that chest, you would be killed for sure if anyone saw that." "How am I going to hide that," Dunin pointed down at the chest. "It is too big." "Hmm, there is a way," Randolf replied getting up and walking over to his horse. He flipped open one of the saddle bags and began rummaging around inside of it. "A-hah!" he exclaimed and remove a folded up piece of leather and shook it out revealing a leather sack. "Now, this is a special bag, no matter how much you put in it, you can never fill it up. To retrieve what you want, just put your hand in the sack and think about the thing you want to remove. If it is in the bag then you will find it." "Wow, is this something else I should keep quiet about?" Dunin asked, taking the bag of holding and placing the chest in it. The bag did not feel any heavier, and Dunin stuffed it in his shirt. "Oh, you are just full of surprises, are you not?" Randolf asked, spying the glint of light off of the mailed shirt when Dunin tucked his bag in. "That is a very special piece of armor, Young Dunin, guard it as well. Many a knight, or protector, have had their life spared wearing a shirt like that." "Now, Kalaban is a very special sword, and there are a few things you should know," Randolf instructed. "Maybe it is not strictly going by the law, but I have never believed that you should start from ignorance. Many a protector failed before even starting because he was not as informed as he should be." "Is that what I am going to be? A Protector?" Dunin asked. "Maybe, only time will tell. Anyway, did Kalaban tell you that it is the Crystal Sword?" Randolf asked. "Yes, but I do not understand what that means," Dunin replied. "It also said it was the Defender." "Well, Kalaban sees everything," Randolf tried to explain. "Sees everything with crystal clarity. No spell, no illusion, no lie, no manipulation, nothing escapes Kalaban. It will do its best to protect you. Now, that does not mean that it will keep you from dying, it will warn you as best it can, but if you are killed, you are killed." "Kalaban will warn me, but will not save me," Dunin confirmed. "Absolutely. Not without specific direction from you, within its abilities," Randolf explained. "Kalaban is a neutral sword and very powerful, which means good or evil can wield it equally. It will defend what is important to its wielder, you." "So Kalaban follows my heart, whether good or evil?" Dunin asked in clarification. "Yes. You understand completely," Randolf praised Dunin. "I will not tell you Kalaban's abilities, but like I said, it is powerful, second to only one other sword." "I saw in that hall, that the stone to Kalaban's left was empty and a little higher," Dunin explained. "But, there was a sword even higher than that." "I should have been more specific," Randolf chuckled. "You are correct, but of the Swords of Law, Kalaban is second only to one." "How do you know all of this?" Dunin asked. "Were you waiting for me?" "All good questions, none of which I will answer," Randolf replied. "Just know that my heart is pure, and Kalaban would tell you otherwise, and I wanted you to have a head start. Now you go get accepted in that academy and do well. The four years of training will prepare you for later. Keep Kalaban close at all times and learn." "I promise," Dunin nodded. "Master Randolf? Thank you for helping me." "Dunin, it's time you should be getting home," Randolf stated, rising up off of the stump. "Your mom will be worrying, and I should be on my way as well." "Home, Gods! I almost forgot," Dunin declared in alarm. "Mom will be worried sick. Wait, how am I going to get there? My boat was destroyed int the storm." "Really? I thought I saw a small sailing boat earlier," Randolf remarked. "Are you sure that wasn't yours?" "Master Randolf, I'm not sure of anything anymore," Dunin shook his head. "Where did you see it?" "Let me clean up and I'll show you," Randolf poured the contents of the kettle on the fire, dousing it, and repacked his things. Grabbing his helm, he gathered his horse's reins and led his horse with Dunin following down to the beach, where Dunin's boat was pulled up on the sand. Dunin inspected the boat and found everything in order, as well as a hold full of shrimp. He turned to thank Randolf again and found the beach empty. Shrugging his shoulders and shaking his head, he pushed the boat out into the lagoon, jumped in and began rowing out to sea, where he raised and trimmed the sails and set a course for home. ------- Randolf watched the sailboat head out to see and turned to find his brother standing there. "I thought we were not interfering in this world any longer?" Driscoll asked. "We are not, just like you did not with the first-born," Randolf chuckled. "There has been too much of the old days coming back, so I thought that Kalaban would help hold the tide." "I was not helping the Wyrm, whose name is Tanith, by the way," Driscoll replied. "I was surprised to see one after all of this time and was curious." "The boy has a pure heart," Randolf sighed. "He will put Kalaban to good use." "Always the romantic," Driscoll chuckled fading from view. "Hail, and well met, Dunin Brandson. Hail, and well met," Randolf called out, fading as well. ------- We are going to leave Dunin for now. His mother moves to Malkur, and he is accepted into the Merchant-Marine Academy, where his fitness from the years of rowing while shrimping and Kalaban serve him well. ------- Chapter 14 The platoon of guardsmen escorting the ladies had been on the road for five days and were scheduled to arrive in Realto sometime the next afternoon. Lady Laura, as well as Anastasia, was looking forward to a hot bath and comfortable bed after sleeping on straw pads in the wagon. They received scant news of the happenings of late and saw no other travelers on the road, which was strange, for trade wagons were normally always on the move. Anastasia hoped that her guardian's family would be as accommodating as Rac-Nur seemed to think they would be. She was worried about Lord Aaron and Rac-Nur as well, he looked like he had lost something and did not know if he would ever find it again. On their second day out they had stopped at an inn with a trading post and purchased more comfortable traveling clothes. The captain had also procured mounts for the ladies so they did not have to ride in the wagon. Lieutenant Williams rode at the front of the troop, while Captain Snyder rode with the ladies and Rac-Nur several paces behind. Anastasia and Rac-Nur had drawn closer on the road to Realto. Every morning Rac-Nur would help her practice with the thin shortsword that she wore. Several of the guard participated in the practice and Anastasia was getting better with a sword. Even Lady Laura attended the practices, gaining proficiency with the dagger she now carried. Rac-Nur also taught them about life on the road and in the wood, showing them plants and herbs used for healing and nourishment, as well as those that could yield poison. The trip also had a profound affect on Lady Laura. The realities of life and death had tempered her personality and outlook on life. The loss of her bodyguards as well as Colleen had affected her deeply. More than servants, they had been her only companions for years, her only true friends. The recent events had caused her to reevaluate her life and priorities. Inevitably, the two ladies became fast friends and Rac-Nur took on the role of protector for Laura as well. ------- Micah drew encouragement from the information gathered by his spies. Realto was his for the re-taking, and he planned to march into the town on the morrow and re-occupy the manor, hopefully without bloodshed. Either way, he was not going to skulk about any longer. His advisors were cautiously concerned, they did not expect a full out resistance by Duke Beadle's men, but they did fear another assassination attempt. Duke Beadle was walking a fine line of treason and could be seen as the aggressor if his men prevented Micah from returning. Above all else, Micah was still heir apparent to the crown of Aithen. ------- Aaron awoke refreshed and at ease on the morning of the third day after being immersed in the pool of Eldritch. His wounds were healed and the poison had been successfully fought off by his body, boosted by Eldritch. There were ramifications of the pool immersion however, that even Aaron would not be aware of till much later. He opened his eyes and stretched feeling refreshed as he scanned the room. The surroundings didn't jog any memories and he couldn't remember ever having been there before. What did he remember? Tanith! He remembered meeting her in 'The Golden Pony', yes, a very pleasant memory. He remembered returning to somewhere to dress for... , for a ball? Yes, a ball, but for whom? He wracked his brain and memories for several moments, but nothing. He could not remember being at the ball. He could not remember! Panic started to set in; who was he, where was he? These questions were unanswerable in his mind and he remained there, eyes darting back and forth, scanning the room, trying to find some familiar thing to latch on to. ------- Tanith had checked on Aaron and found him still resting comfortably so she decided to take a nice leisurely flight to stretch her wings and pass the time. Truth be told, she was still a little worried. He was not in a coma, but he showed no signs of waking either. If something did not change soon, well she was not sure what to do, but something would have to be done. She had been enjoying the upper currents for awhile when she felt intense panic from her bond with Aaron. It broke her concentration and she actually fell several hundred feet before righting herself and quickly shifted to her lair entrance and back to her bipedal form and hurried to Aaron's room. ------- Aaron was in a full on panic attack when Tanith entered the room and rushed to his side. She held him and gently rocked him, trying to calm him down. Eventually he told her that other than remembering her, he knew absolutely nothing, could not remember anything. She told him not to worry, his memory loss was a short term effect of the attack, and proceeded to tell him everything she knew; finding him, killing his adversaries, removing the poison arrows, treating him. She told him step by step everything that had happened to him, after finding him on the ground. She spent the rest of the day at his side as he struggled with his memories, until fatigue forced him into an uneasy slumber. He tossed and turned through much of the night, until he finally settled down. Tanith had just stood up from the bed, when she felt Aaron drawing Eldritch in his sleep! She took a step back as Aaron continued pulling power from his surroundings, and then she got a real shock, he began taking it from her, which should not be possible! And more importantly, he was draining her fast! That talent had not been seen in three ages and yet here was her mate taking power as if he was a first-born, as if he was a Guthard! "Aaron! Aaron, wake up!" Tanith called out. He did not respond, as more of her power was being taken away. She had to draw as much power as she could just to match the outflow. She sent a silent command to awaken down the bond link and waited. Finally, he stirred! The outdraw diminished and then stopped altogether as he rolled over and opened his eyes. "Tanith. I had the strangest dream," Aaron began, the tiredness reflected in his voice as he sat up. "We were attacked and I saw Rac-Nur go down and then the carriage driver was hit, and there was screaming in the coach. I was shot with arrows, and a giant dragon saved me. Weird dream, huh?" "Aaron, most of that is true," Tanith sat on the bed and held his hand. "You were ambushed on the way to the palace, I do not know who else was hurt, but I felt your pain and went there and fought off the assassins and brought you here. They tried to kill me as well." "How long ago?" Aaron asked trembling. "Five or six days ago," Tanith replied. "You were hit with poison arrows, four times. One-step venom and enough to kill ten men. Do you remember any of it?" "No. Wait, yes, I think so," Aaron responded. "I remember Red Rose, that's one of my swords, I remember getting the warning of the ambush, and relaying it to Rac-Nur, my bondservant, then I turned my horse, Gods, Thorn is dead too. That horse had been my only companion for years. I remember seeing Rac-Nur falling, no, wait, he did not fall, he swung backward down into the coach and then I was hit twice and then twice again. My last thought was a command to my sword..." "Black Rose, to me," Aaron commanded holding out his hand. "My Lord!" Black Rose acknowledged and appeared in his hand. The sword's runes pulsed in black brilliance. Eldritch was almost palpable in the very air. Aaron stood up and was a little shaky on his feet. Tanith reached out to steady him and Aaron held her and then stood on his own. "Black Rose, give me strength," Aaron commanded and then felt the power flow from his sword. "Black Rose, where did you send the ladies?" "Aaron, I can hear this conversation through our bond,"Tanith chuckled. "I know the general capabilities of Runeswords, as well." "Black Rose, no secrets in her presence," Aaron commanded. "Yes, My Lord," Black Rose replied and relayed the command to Red Rose. "I sent them back to the dwelling you were at earlier." "Who did you send?" Aaron asked. "The Shoc-Du and two human females, My Lord," Black Rose replied. "Which two?" Aaron asked. "Your ward and the one you swore to protect, My Lord," Black Rose replied. "Tanith, where are my clothes?" Aaron turned to her and then held out his other hand. "Red Rose, to me." "My Lord!" Red Rose replied, appearing in his other hand. The same thing happened; the sword's runes were glowing red, pulsing with the over abundance of energy. "Aaron, you are not recovered enough yet," Tanith replied worriedly. "Your swords would tell you that also. You will do no one any benefit in your current shape. Wait until the morning." "I need to know they are safe," Aaron replied. "They may need my help." "Aaron, you are barely standing, how do you intend to help anyone?" Tanith asked, trying to calm him. "Alright," Aaron replied, weariness plain in his voice. "Tanith, you said most of my dream was true, what about the dragon?" "Aaron, it was not a dragon, any more than you are a chimpanzee," Tanith sighed. "It was me, in my true self. Before your age there was another, the first age, and it was ruled by Wyrms. We were the first-born; the children of Eldritch. When you are stronger, I will show you. Does it matter to you?" "No, my soul knows your soul. Everything else is peripheral," Aaron yawned. "I would like to see your other self, though, when I am stronger. Now, though, I am ready to sleep." Tanith gently removed the swords from his hands and laid them on a desk close by and helped him back into bed. He was asleep within moments of lying down. ------- Micah awoke at first light and got up and went over to the fire and sat down. One of the men brought him a steaming cup of brew and Micah sipped it, allowing the caffeine to course through his system. Master Landon came over and sat down next to him. "My Prince, your forces are ready, the town is ready," Master Landon counseled him. "The reinforcements have arrived from all points of the duchy, and await your command." "Today we go home," Micah stood. "Today we reclaim Realto!" "Master Landon, assemble the war council," Micah commanded, placing the empty cup down and returning to his tent to dress for battle. ------- Prince Velen had spent the last couple of days learning about the age he found himself in. Retrieving his father's sword, 'Darksoul', from Lord Devlin, he spent hours in practice with it. Darksoul was a single hand, swept hilt sword, with a blade length of three feet. It was designed for cutting as well as thrusting, with a double edged blade. A unique weapon designed for both armored and unarmored combat. The sword, though named, enchanted, and rune carved, was not a sentient Runesword, although it had a will and a mind of its own. Its claim to fame, or rather infamy, was its ability to cut through anything, as well as the ability, nay, the desire, to feed on the souls of its victims and pass part of that energy on to its wielder. It was a cursed blade, in that it would feed on its wielder's soul if the wielder ever fell in battle. The blade was forged from a black metal, but not adamantine or any other known metal. The hilt handle was ivory with black veins running throughout it, but ivory from an unknown source. The sword's history was shrouded in mystery, no one knew when it came into the possession of the Thangdaemon Kings, passed down from heir to heir, or more importantly, who was its maker, or why it was forged. He questioned Lord Devlin concerning his father's castle, Daemongurd, and learned that it was currently unoccupied, had in fact been abandoned since the time of the ascension. Prince Velen decided to travel to the castle and reopen it. He planned to enslave a servant force from the local human settlements. He was not a Necromancer like Lord Devlin, but he was an Eldritch Adept, preferring the Elfen title of Warlock. Teleporting to the castle, the wards set by Red Rose flashed and shifted the teleport destination to the bridge in front of the closed gates. Prince Velen was confused when he materialized on the bridge and approached the closed doors and then stopped, feeling the power emanating from wards. Taking a step back he began gesturing in front of the doors, as well as drawing power from the surrounding area. ------- Aaron awoke refreshed the following morning and got out of bed despite Tanith's protests, and began to stretch weakened muscles in preparation for sword practice. Tanith stood by bemused at Aaron's stubbornness as his body protested the work out. Stopping on several occasions to rest he nonetheless continued his normal morning workouts using his swords. He noticed he was faster, even more fluid than usual. He kicked up the speed and intensity of his workout and his body responded. "My Lord, the wards on Castle Daemongurd are being tampered with," Red Rose told his wielder. "Well, now at least I know the name of the castle," Aaron replied, slowing to a stop and catching his breath. "Why did you not tell me the name before?" "You never asked, My Lord," Red Rose replied. "My Lord, the wards?" Aaron began pulling power and immediately realized that the flow was intense, as if he was perfectly attuned with Eldritch now and the power came to him more easily than before. It was if he was Eldritch, a part of the flow, instead of having to access it from outside the flow. "Strengthen the wards," Aaron poured power into Red Rose, whose runes burned and pulsed red with power. "I do not want those wards breached." "AS YOU COMMAND, MY LORD," Red Rose replied, his tone solemn and respectful. "It is done, My Lord." Aaron noted with some curiosity that when he tapped into the flow of Eldritch, it refreshed him, renewed his muscle fatigue and all around made him feel great. He continued his practice and began pushing himself to improve his stamina. ------- Prince Velen screamed his frustration at not being able to break the wards. For a split moment he almost thought they were coming down and then they deflected his magic and strengthened beyond his capabilities to affect them. "Lord Devlin!" he screamed, projecting his command. "Attend me!" "Prince Velen?" Lord Devlin materialized next to him a few moments later. "You require my assistance?" "Yes, the castle is warded and I cannot penetrate the wards," Prince Velen explained, clearly frustrated and angry. "Remove the wards." Lord Devlin stepped up to the gates and grasped his staff in both hands in front of him, slightly cocked forward and began chanting. The staff began to glow with a reddish hue and Lord Devlin's chanting took on a frantic tone as red tendrils of Eldritch flowed from the staff's end and toward the gates, flowing outward flat against an invisible shield. The energy expanded outward along the gates and the walls covering the area horizontally as well as vertically. There was a brief flash and explosion as the red energy disappeared and Lord Devlin was knocked backward onto the bridge walkway. The shield around the castle pulsed with a silvery light as Lord Devlin picked himself up and dusted off his robe and picked up his staff. "Who could have warded it so strongly?" Prince Velen asked. "A WitchLord, Prince Velen," Lord Devlin replied disgustedly. "A WitchLord, alive in this age," Prince Velen asked. "How do we get by the ward?" "Trade him something more important to him, Prince Velen," Lord Devlin replied. "He was raised from infancy not too far from here, by a human family. Trade the remaining member of that family for the castle. He is a young duke, by the name of Blackmoon, Micah Blackmoon." "He cares about a human?" Prince Velen asked, the shock and contempt apparent in his tone. "Yes, Your Highness, he does," Lord Devlin nodded, sharing his prince's sentiments concerning humans. "Where, Lord Devlin?" Prince Velen asked. "Realto, Your Highness," Lord Devlin smiled. "Realto." ------- Lieutenant Williams roused the camp at daybreak and prepared the troop to move out. The ladies were in a particularly good mood, for today would be the last day on the road. The troop cleared camp and were on the road within short order, the ladies still riding next to Captain Snyder, with Rac-Nur close by, while Lieutenant Williams commanded the troop movement. Several hours later the town of Realto came into sight. After crossing the bridge over the river the Lieutenant called a halt in their movement. The lieutenant noticed that the outer edges of the town were deserted and sent out scouts into the town. The scouts came back in a hurry and reported that there was fighting going on at the gates to the manor grounds between guardsmen of House Beadle and those loyal to Realto. Rac-Nur spoke briefly to Anastasia, whereupon she explained to Captain Snyder that Lord Whiterune's father, the Duke of Realto, was under attack and that the troop should render aid. The scouts reported the opposite, guardsmen from House Beadle held the manor, while Realto guardsmen were attacking. This concerned the captain, who then ordered a squad to stay and protect the ladies, while he took command of the rest of the troop and gave the order to charge and aid their liege's family. Rac-Nur, along with the squad, was moving the ladies toward an inn when they were attacked by a group of black clad assassins, identical to the ones that initiated the ambush in Aithen. Black arrows flew through the air taking out several Guardsmen. The remainder of the squad circled the ladies who also drew weapons to protect themselves as the fighting became fierce around them. They began giving ground looking for a better defensive position and moved toward the inn. The inn doors opened and a male goblin stepped out leaning on a staff. He pointed the staff at Rac-Nur and spoke a goblin word of power, whereupon a blast of energy engulfed the dark elf and he fell to the ground seemingly lifeless. The goblin spoke another word of power and the ladies were bound and frozen in place. He walked up to the two captives, struck the ground with his staff and they disappeared. ------- Master Landon reported that the company of men was assembled and ready to travel. Micah stood in front and encouraged them to win the day and their lands back. He led them out into the forest and came toward the town from the east side of the river fork. Micah split his forces in half, Masters Caleb and Landon would each take a quarter of men up each side of the town and prepare to assault the manor from the sides, while Micah would take the larger force of half the men right through the center of town toward the manor gates. The flanking forces made it to the wall of the inner city and waited. The main force arrived at the inner city gates and were passed through by sympathetic guards as the flanking forces scouted and then used ladders to scale the city walls before continuing toward the manor. The flanking forces stood ready to scale the manor walls as the main force stopped at the manor gates. "Open the gates in the name of the Duke of Realto," a herald called out. "The Duke of Realto is dead, murdered in his sleep," the guard challenged. The men parted as Micah walked up to the gate and raised his right-hand, showing the ducal ring. "I am Micah Blackmoon, Duke of Realto," Micah stated. "You are trespassing on my lands and have usurped my duchy. Treasonous acts that require an accounting. Open the gates and stand down, now!" Mercenaries poured out of the surrounding buildings and attacked Micah's forces, pressing them toward the closed gates. Arrows flew out of concealed places as shields were brought up to block the deadly missiles. "It's a trap, protect the Duke," the herald commanded and then went down with several black arrows in his chest. Guardsmen raised their shields or got under cover as arrows rained down. Isabelle stepped forward and cast a shield spell covering a section of the men, while Ragnar did the same protecting the rest. Ragnar also sent missiles of magic back along the arrows flight path, hitting several bowmen and killing them. Micah's men were holding their own while his two flanking forces split again, one half scaling the walls and proceeding toward the gates, the other half rushing toward the fight from each side, catching the mercenaries in a pincer move and pushing them toward the Duke's main body which faced outward to crush the mercenaries against the flanking attackers. Meanwhile the two Swordmasters led their forces toward the gates from inside the manor grounds, meeting little resistance from the guards from House Beadle. The captain in charge of Duke Beadle's forces was caught in a precarious position. He could not legally prevent the Duke from returning and he didn't dare oppose the Duke's forces, that would be a declaration of war between the two duchies and House Beadle was a duchy in name only, while Realto had real forces to call upon. Master Caleb reached the gates first and had the guards pulled down and arrested while Master Landon had the gates opened so that the Duke's embattled main body could be relieved by the Swordmasters' fresh forces. Thus augmented, Micah's counterattacking troops broke the mercenaries forces into pockets which surrendered or died where they stood. A cheer went up from Micah's forces as they realized they had won the day and then the cheer turned into a cry when several spotted a troop of cavalry coming up the center road. Micah spotted the banner and realized that it was the same one as in the book he and Aaron found. He was relieved to know that they must be Aaron's men. Micah's men were wary when the troop stopped and their leader dismounted and approached. "I am Captain Snyder, and I am looking for the Duke of Realto," he called out. "I am here to render aid, although it seems we are no longer needed. We are Lord Whiterune's forces, on our way to secure his castle." "I am Duke Blackmoon," Micah replied stepping forward. "When was the last time you saw my brother?" Captain Snyder's answer was delayed, for at that very moment a low fog began to form all around them as the temperature began to drop noticeably. Micah looked over as three shapes materialized in the courtyard of the manor causing all to turn towards them. Two knights dressed in black plate mail flanked a warrior dressed in black scale mail. Micah notes that the center figure could be related to Aaron except his face was angular in shape while Aaron's was more symmetrical. Micah recognized the two knights from the description Aaron gave of them and the heraldry on their shields. It had been several days since he thought about the coin Aaron gave him and longer still since he tried it last, but he removed it from his pocket and tried it now. "Aaron, I need you, now more than ever!" Micah projected mentally rubbing the coin and hoping Aaron was able to respond. "Good day, humans," the warrior in the center hailed them. "I am Prince Velen, might any of you be Duke Blackmoon?" "Why do you want to know?" Master Landon stepped forward. The two knights stepped forward drawing their swords as the prince placed a hand on each of them, "I have a proposition to discuss with a family member of his." ------- Aaron had finished exercising and sword practice, cleaned up and dressed and was just about to teleport to the study of the home in Aithen with Tanith, when he felt Micah's need. He projected the location to Black Rose and drew the sword and filled his essence with Eldritch, and then had the sword teleport them to Micah's side. They appeared in the middle of the courtyard of the manor and Aaron saw two of those damned knights and a third warrior that had just spoken to Micah. Micah was flanked by guards and Caleb, while Master Landon was forward, sword out blocking the intruders' path. "Then speak your proposition," Aaron challenged, drawing Red Rose as well. Both swords howled in rage, runes glowing and a silvery fire flickering up and down their blades. Aaron was too intent on the scene before him to notice the flames, but Tanith did. Prince Velen turned toward Aaron with a smirk that dissolved into a frown upon first recognizing the swords, and then the family resemblance. He bowed at the waist and swept his hand behind him. "Milord, I had no idea," Prince Velen tried to explain. "When Lord Devlin said a WitchLord was alive, I never thought for a second he could mean a Prince of the Rose. I am Prince Velen, and I am at your service." "My Lady, you honor me with your presence," Prince Velen bowed low to Tanith, who nodded her head. He turned and dismissed the two knights and stepped forward toward Aaron. Aaron eyed him critically and noted that he wasn't holding power and that the swords calmed down as soon as the knights left. Aaron sheathed his swords. Tanith kept her rapier out, but dropped the point. "What was your proposition?" Aaron asked. "And who are you?" "I am Prince Velen," Prince Velen replied. "You have warded my castle. I would like the wards removed." "That does not tell me what your proposition was," Arron asked, moving his hand to Black Rose's hilt. "Alright, My Prince. I had planned to take the young Duke and trade him for the wards being removed," Prince Velen sighed. "Although, I do not understand why you are so attached to humans." "I am, especially these two, and that is all that really matters," Aaron pointed at Micah and Caleb. "What are your intentions if you return to the castle?" "Occupy it," Prince Velen shrugged. "I will need servants and such. As long as I limit my acquiring to areas other than here, would that pose a problem?" "No, not particularly," Aaron replied, and then had Red Rose remove the wards. "The wards are removed." "Thank you," Prince Velen smiled. "You know, I was friends with your ancestor, very good friends. I do not wish to be your enemy." "Perhaps we will meet again," Aaron offered, hand moving away from his swords. "As long as your plans do not infringe on me or mine that meeting could be a pleasant one." "Perhaps we will," Prince Velen replied. "You did not offer your name before." "You are right, I did not," Aaron smiled. "Aaron Whiterune." "Hail, and well met, Aaron Whiterune," Prince Velen faded away. "Well, there goes the winter home, Tanith," Aaron chuckled and then turned to Micah. "What happened here?" "Aaron, where have you been?" Micah replied. "A lot has gone on, Father and Uncle Thane are dead. We thought you were dead as well." "Dead? How?" Aaron asked, emotion in his voice. "Micah, tell me everything." Micah spent the next half an hour explaining what had been happening for the past week or so; the death of their father, the black assassins, news from Aithen, everything. By the time he was done cold rage burned in Aaron's eyes. "Do you know who is behind this?" Micah asked, trying to keep the emotion out of his voice. "Not specifically, but I have some ideas," Aaron replied and then turned to Captain Snyder. "Captain, it was fortuitous that you chose to stop here. Since the castle has changed hands I would like you to stay here and assist Duke Micah. Send word to the rest of the company that they will be relocating here, instead of the castle." "Yes, milord," Captain Snyder acknowledged the command. "It was not chance that brought us here. Your ward is here and she commanded it." "Anastasia is here? Show me," Aaron commanded. Captain Snyder led a squad with Aaron, Tanith, Micah, and Caleb back to where he left the ladies. They found the sign of a struggle and dead guardsmen, the entire squad decimated. Rac-Nur was lying seemingly lifeless on the ground, but the ladies were missing! Missing, not again! ------- Chapter 15 Lord Tsor materialized in the small informal throne room of the palace in Aithen. Duke Calan Beadle was sitting on the throne and having a discussion with Lord Tnuk and Marcus, the onetime aide to Carlos de Ponce. The three turned toward Lord Tsor and his two guests. The ladies were still bound, but conscious. "Kneel!" Lord Tsor commanded tapping his staff to the ground and the two ladies dropped to their knees, heads bowed. "Where did you find them?" Duke Beadle asked with glee apparent on his face. "In Realto. Any news of the ambush?" Lord Tsor asked. "No news," Duke Calan replied. "My men have their orders, If young Blackmoon shows up, they cannot interfere. I do not want to look like the aggressor, or worse, usurper. We have to hope the Black Hand will do their job." "At least you have recovered the females," Lord Tnuk acknowledged. "Are they aware of what is going on around them?" "No, I have them controlled, why?" Lord Tsor asked. "I want them to know their fate," Lord Tnuk replied. "I want them to be aware of their place in life." Lord Tsor struck the floor with his staff and the bindings on the ladies disappeared. The women shook their heads and stood, facing their abductors. "Why have you taken us?" Lady Laura demanded. "When my father finds out you will pay." "Lady Laura, shut up and listen!" Duke Calan leaned forward. "Your father is not here, you are. You will remain in Aithen as my guest and as insurance against any uprising from Malkur and your father. You should be happy; once I am crowned you will be betrothed to a King." "Marcus, how could you betray me?" Anastasia asked, bringing her hand up and rubbing the coin she wore on a chain. She hoped Aaron was alright and more importantly she hoped he could finally sense her. She and Lady Laura were in grave danger, and he was their only hope. "It was easy, I get you and your house," Marcus smiled, causing Anastasia to shudder. "You will soon learn your place." "I will not be betrothed to a thug, and an ugly one at that," Lady Laura replied to Duke Beadle, crossing her arms. "Master Whiterune will rescue me." "I am sorry to have to inform you that he is dead, Lady Laura," Lord Tnuk laughed. "You will get no help from him." ------- Aaron kneeled next to Rac-Nur and checked for a pulse and exhaled a long sigh upon finding one. "Tanith, can you aid my friend?" Aaron asked. "The last time I tried to heal with Eldritch, I overacted and affected the person greatly." Tanith kneeled next to Aaron and showed him how to heal without lasting exposure to Eldritch. She called forth her power and allowed it to collect on her fingertips until the concentration was great enough to form a viscous solution. She gently dripped it onto Rac-Nur's forehead, watching it absorb into the skin, while holding her other hand, which glowed with a silvery light, flat on his chest. Presently Rac-Nur opened his eyes and smiled at the sight of his liege. "Another Dac-Ur, Shoc-Ti?" Rac-Nur asked. "How many do I owe you now?" "Shh, rest. Do you know what happened to the ladies?" Aaron asked. Rac-Nur recounted the events after the captain left, including describing the goblin sorcerer that took the ladies. Aaron knew who the goblin was by the description Rac-Nur gave; the involvement of said goblin explained much. Also Rac-Nur's description of the assassins pointed to a specific guild, or rather sub-sect of the Assassins' Guild: the Black Hand. They were a secret society of assassins that preformed contract work in squad-like units. The fact that they were involved concerned Aaron. They were good, admittedly, but more importantly, they had numbers, unknown numbers. Aaron would have to be careful. Aaron stood and went over to one of the dead Guardsmen and removed the black arrow sticking out of him. Removing a leather sheath from within his cloak he carefully covered the arrowhead and stowed the arrow away for later. He was just about to order a stretcher for Rac-Nur when he felt Anastasia's need and knew where she was. Transferring the location to Black Rose, he told Tanith to see to Rac-Nur's needs and to follow him after. He told Micah to be careful, and told Caleb to watch over Micah. After giving these instructions he drew his swords and then apportated to Anastasia's side, just as Lord Tnuk told Lady Laura that he was dead. ------- "I am sorry to have to inform you that he is dead, Lady Laura," Lord Tnuk laughed. "You will get no help from him." "The reports of my demise are greatly exaggerated, Lord Tnuk," Aaron materialized in the chamber, swords out, runes glowing and blades ablaze in a silvery flame, smiling his trademark feral grin. "Lord Tsor, it is so nice to see you again. It has been such a long time," the sarcasm was obvious as Aaron struck with Eldritch, encircling Tsor in a silver ball of energy, thereby immobilizing him. "Red Rose, ward the room, no one leaves or enters." "Yes, My Lord," Red Rose replied as the doors glowed with a silver light and sealed shut. This time the color difference did not go unnoticed, but Aaron had little time to ponder the reason why. "Marcus, what did I tell you would happen if you betrayed me?" Aaron asked. "Black Rose, his soul is yours, but make it slow and make it painful." Aaron released the sword and Black Rose danced its dance of death with a howling glee. It flashed in front of Marcus who tried to block it, but the sword easily turned aside the parry. Black Rose struck quickly, slashing his cheek and taking a small portion of his soul, causing Marcus to scream in agony. The sword struck again, slashing his shoulder and taking another piece, causing another scream. Duke Calan watched in horror, possibly realizing for the first time who, or what he had crossed. Black Rose struck again and again and again, each time bloodying him and taking a part of his soul. Marcus finally fell to his knees, weakened both physically and spiritually by the dual attack. The sword flashed one last time, decapitating him and taking the rest of his soul, and then returned to Aaron's outstretched hand. "Aaron, the room is warded, please remove them," Tanith sent him through their bond. Aaron instructed Red Rose to allow Tanith entry. The chamber was eerily quiet as the ladies looked on in shock, Aaron turned toward Duke Beadle when Tanith materialized in the room with a rejuvenated Rac-Nur, who moved over to protect Anastasia. "So, Duke Beadle, what am I to do with you?" Aaron smiled. "You should not have aligned yourself as my enemy." "I am not afraid of you," Calan Beadle replied, rising from his seat. "My Master will protect me." "I do not see your master," Aaron smiled, looked around and then pointed Red Rose at him. "You should be afraid, very afraid." A beam of silver energy burned a hole in Duke Beadle's chest incinerating his heart, killing him instantly. Duke Beadle's body crumpled back into the chair. "Lord Tnuk, I am greatly disappointed," Aaron admonished him, again the sarcasm was evident in his tone. "I thought we had an agreement? I thought we were non-competitive equals?" "Did you actually think the 'council' would allow that?" Lord Tnuk replied arrogantly. "You put yourself in direct conflict with the desires of the 'council'. You forced us to extreme measures." "Really? And here I thought you had been planning this for sometime," Aaron's laughter caused an involuntary shiver from everyone within earshot. "Lord Tnuk, tell me truly, has not the 'council' been in league with House Beadle from the beginning? Has not the 'council' been lying to me from the beginning?" Aaron saw Lord Tnuk begin drawing power from the surrounding rock. 'Saw' was perhaps the wrong word, Aaron could feel the power flowing toward the goblin and knew he was preparing to attack, so Aaron preempted the attack with one of his own. "Stop," Aaron commanded combining Eldritch with the word. Lord Tnuk froze in mid action. The flow stopped and Aaron started toward him, when Tanith interrupted. "Aaron, did you know that goblins used a specialized form of Eldritch?" Tanith asked. "It's called rock magic." "No, I did not," he replied, shaking his head. "Although, when I fought the goblin sorcerers in the Hall of the Mountain Folk, I could see them accessing their power, and right now I could feel the flow of power as Tnuk prepared to attack." "When you had your dream, before I awoke you, you were pulling power from everywhere, even from me," Tanith explained. "When you release him, try to stop him from accessing the rock magic." "Alright, I will try that," Aaron smiled and then turned back to Lord Tnuk and released him from the binding word. After Aaron released the Eldritch in the word, he felt Tnuk start drawing power from the rock. Aaron reached out with his own power and pulled the power back, drawing it toward him. Using the power he built a magical barrier around Tnuk, effectively isolating him from the Eldritch. Lord Tnuk looked at Aaron with surprise and even shock as he began to pull power from the rocks, when the source stopped! He could sense the power in the rocks but couldn't access it. "You really have no idea what you have started," Aaron smiled and released the barrier and pushed more power into Tnuk than the goblin could sustain. The goblin lord screamed in agony and started to glow as beams of silvery light began to leak out of his body everywhere. Lord Tnuk finally exploded in a brilliant flash of silver energy. Nothing remained of the Goblin Lord. Turning to Lord Tsor, ex-head of the council of thieves and assassins, Aaron put up the same barrier as with Tnuk and with a sweep of his hand released the ball of energy that was holding him in stasis. "I did not expect you to be involved, my old master," Aaron looked at him with contempt. "It was not personal, Aaron, at least not from me," Lord Tsor replied. "There was a plan to bring Aithen, Malkur, Creton, and Re-An under one rule, purely for economic reasons. The King would not put aside his wife and take another. The young prince was just that; young, too young. With the Duchess of Malkur at a marrying age, with the right King, Malkur could be brought under the crown of Aithen. Creton and Re-An would have no choice but to swear allegiance and the kingdom would have Realto in the east, Malkur in the west, Re-An to the south, and finally Creton to the north. It was simple economics, nothing more." "Except, once again, I was in the way," Aaron replied. "Or at least the fact that the principals involved were important to me. We have had this discussion before when the 'council' said they only backed Lord Colin so I would end up killing him. You never really wanted Colin Beadle, so at least that part was true. Who were you really setting up for the throne? Not Calan Beadle; he would have been no better than his brother." "No, it was Duke Calan," Lord Tsor replied. "How are you blocking me? I did not think that was possible." "I am just full of surprises," Aaron replied with a smirk and shrug. "And it is not Calan Beadle. If you think so then you were played as well. No, someone else is behind this plot. Someone else is trying to take control of the five realms, or at least a large part of it. But we need to deal with the here and now." "What, so now you are just going to kill me?" Lord Tsor asked. "Well, I had really thought about doing just that," Aaron replied smiling, "but, no, I am not going to kill you. I am going to strip you of your powers and then let you go." "Tanith, what is the word for the Eldritch rune of binding?" Aaron asked her through their bond. "Aaron, it is pronounced Et," Tanith replied. "It is drawn as three concentric rings. It means, Thrice Bound. Wyrms and elder dragons can do it naturally. You can also, by weaving Eldritch around something three times. Using the rune is stronger, however." "Lord Tsor, before I banish you, answer me truly," Aaron looked at his old master intently. "Did the 'council' authorize, or participate in, or have knowledge of, an abduction plot of Lady Laura by Creton?" "No, Aaron, they did not," Lord Tsor shook his head. "That would have made no sense. The plan all along was to wed her to Calan Beadle, strengthening both cities and the kingdom. It was just providence that brought her here from Re-An; providence in the form of an orc raiding party." "I do not think so, Lord Tsor," Aaron also shook his head. "There are quite possibly two separate plots here. I just need to unweave and separate them. You should not have sided against me." Aaron began weaving the rune through the barrier he had set up. He asked for and received instruction from Red Rose and when he was completed, he stripped Tsor's staff of power as well and had Black Rose teleport him to the middle of the Northern Wastelands. Aaron had never been to the Wastelands, but he didn't care where Tsor landed, or more importantly, in what. ------- Prince Velen returned to the Black Tower and confronted Lord Devlin concerning the Tarran Prince. He reminded Lord Devlin of his place and to whom his loyalties should lie. Prince Velen would tolerate no more misinformation or manipulations concerning the Tarran Prince. Lord Devlin accused Prince Velen of being blinded because of his affection for the dead Tarran King, whom the WitchLord resembled. He informed Lord Devlin that he had plans and that he did not want the Tarran Prince's suspicions aroused and he wanted Lord Devlin to maintain a low profile. The argument went on for several hours and including the trading of magical blows, after which Prince Velen informed Lord Devlin that he would be returning to Daemongurd and planned to see what this age was about. The argument cost Lord Devlin one of his favorite servants, though he was unaware of it at the time. Prince Velen arrived in the courtyard of Castle Daemongurd and slowly turned around, taking it all in. With a wave of his hands, he closed the main gates, then turned and approached the doors of the keep, which stood open. The castle was deserted, yet Prince Velen felt at home. He entered the main hall of the keep, closing the doors behind him and took the staircase to the second level. ------- Micah had a lot of cleanup to oversee. The addition of Captain Snyder's troop eased the strain on his own guardsmen. He had Captain Snyder set up sweeping patrols and, with several of Realto's guardsmen, went house to house and building to building, to remove any leftover assassins. Micah released House Beadle's guardsmen and banished them from Realto's borders. He placed Master Caleb in charge of the manor's forces and Master Landon in charge of Realto's. He tried to locate his father's body for burial but it was nowhere to be found. After a full day of searches, which turned up nothing, Micah felt safe again in his home. He was not. ------- Aaron checked on the health, both physical and mental, of his two ladies, and explained everything that had happened to him since the assassination attempt. He noted with some satisfaction that Rac-Nur stuck to lady Anastasia like tree sap and it alleviated many of his fears for her. He was still concerned that they were in danger and he knew of nowhere where they would be safe. He thought about returning them to Realto, but that thought made him feel too uneasy. What was that old wives' saying? Oh, yes, "placing all of your eggs in one basket". He didn't want to do that, but what to do with them. It was obvious to him that the 'council' was behind the goblin kidnapping, but not behind the Creton abduction plot. He needed to deal with House Beadle and the 'council', but also get to the bottom of the Creton plot. On top of that, Micah was still in danger and by extension Isabelle as well. "Tanith, I hate to leave you but there are things I must do," Aaron tried to explain. "Things to ensure the safety of the people I am responsible for. Would you take Laura, Anastasia, and Rac-Nur and protect them until I find you?" Tanith tried to convince him that she could be of help in whatever he needed doing. He told her that ensuring everyone's safety was all the help he needed. She reluctantly agreed and after goodbyes from everyone she transported them to Anastasia's home. Aaron walked up to the body of the late Calan Beadle, removed a black rose from his bag and dropped it on the remains. He turned away and had Black Rose apportate him outside of the 'Deathmark' inn. Aaron appeared on the street in front of the inn, opened the door and entered. He turned around and used his power to draw the rune of binding on the door with his index finger. Eldritch flowed out of the rune and expanded covering the walls, floor, and ceiling of the building, locking everyone inside. He then turned around and drew his swords and slew everyone in the room except the bartender. Walking up to the false wall, he turned his head and commanded the bartender to open the panel, which he did. Upon entering the small alcove he kicked the door open on the audience chamber and entered, finding several of the masters in attendance. "My good lords," Aaron smiled. "How nice to find so many of you in attendance. Sadly, Lord Tnuk is no longer with us. I see Lord Gnola is not in attendance either. Perhaps he knows something that the rest of you do not." "Master Whiterune, please, it was only business," Lord Remy raised his hands. "No Lord Remy, you are wrong," Aaron replied and pointed Red Rose and released a beam of pure silver Eldritch, burning a large hole in Lord Remy's chest and completely disintegrating his heart. "It was, and still is, personal." "Anyone else have anything to say?" Aaron looked at the remaining masters. "Lord Qatar, you were always quick with a quip, no? Lord Elwes, so new and not even going to reap the benefits of all the promised wealth." "I wonder if dwarves have souls? No matter, we'll soon find out. Black Rose, their souls are yours," Aaron laughed, releasing his sword. "AS YOU COMMAND, MY LORD," boomed throughout the room as Black Rose's blade flashed in the dim light. Again the sword danced its dance of death, howling in glee. The remaining lords knew fear for the short time it took for Black Rose to slay them and consume their souls. "IT IS DONE," the sword announced, returning to Aaron's outstretched hand. Aaron turned and left the audience chamber, re-entered the main room and stopped by the bar where the nervous bartender had set out a glass of amber liquid. Aaron picked up the glass and lifted it in salute and drained it. Ordering Red Rose to remove the rune of binding he looked at the bartender intently. "You had better leave," Aaron commanded, setting the glass back down on the bar and began drawing Eldritch. As before the power flowed easily from his surroundings and soon Aaron was holding more power than ever before. The bartender fled the taproom as Aaron drew more and more power. As before his eyes shone with a brilliance, silver this time, as stray hairs began to whip about. He rose from the floor as silver lightning jumped from his body to the floor, ceiling and walls. The energy began to swirl in a brilliant maelstrom with Aaron in the center, at the eye of the storm. Eventually he could no longer contain the power and so with a loud whoosh, Aaron released the power which consumed the building in its entirety. Aaron stood alone in the bottom of a crater where the 'Deathmark' once stood. He nonchalantly walked up and out of the crater, passed the shocked crowd and left the Central Quarter. That display of power was a beacon to any and all that were sensitive to such things that Eldritch had been used, and used in a fashion not seen in two ages. The demonstration of power was actually felt in five different places on Andor. It was felt in Aithen, were Tanith smiled at the power her mate displayed. It was felt and observed at two towers; one in the west, and the other in the north, where Lord Devlin was surprised at the intensity and worried about the source. It was also felt at a castle to the east, and finally, it was also felt, but not observed, in the Southern Reaches. ------- Lord Gnola was on his way to a 'council' meeting when he saw Master Whiterune materialize by the 'Deathmark' inn, look around and enter. Gnola stopped dead in his tracks and quickly turned around hoping to be avoided and backtracked out of the Central Quarter and toward his home. Master Whiterune was alive, which should not have been possible, yet Lord Gnola had seen him with his own eyes. His master needed to know about this new development as soon as possible. Lord Gnola hurried back to his home in the middle city. Arriving home, Lord Gnola went into his private study, locked the door and made the necessary arrangements to call upon his master and waited. Several moments later a cloaked shape materialized in the room. "You have news of importance, my servant?" the cloaked shape asked. "Yes, My Master," Lord Gnola replied. "Master Whiterune is alive! I saw him outside the 'Deathmark' just now and returned to inform you." "Yes, I know," the cloaked shape asked. "Did he see you?" "No, My Master, he did not," Lord Gnola replied. "But, it will only be a matter of time before he searches me out." "Yes, I quite agree," the cloaked shape replied. "You are definitely a liability." "What? No, My Master!" Lord Gnola screamed as multiple red lightning bolts jumped from the cloaked shape's outstretched hand, striking Lord Gnola, driving him to the ground. The attack went on for several moments until Lord Gnola ceased moving. "Loose end, tied up," the cloaked shape began laughing as it faded away. ------- Mara felt the display of Eldritch and used her stone to try and localize the use. Identifying the location, she observed Aaron walking out of a crater in the lower city of the High City of Aithen. The residue of power was still strong, but it was different somehow. Mara was an Adept and should have been able to identify the type of Eldritch, but she had never encountered this particular manifestation before. Intriguing, highly intriguing. "Well, he has certainly come into his own," Mara thought, stroking the bobcat she kept as a pet. "Something or someone has surely upset him. I will need to keep and eye on things in the east." ------- In the Southern Reaches the beacon of power was felt in a small home in the wealthier section of the city district. What the power usage meant was unclear, since the Adept was relatively new and had only felt and observed one specific manifestation of Eldritch and was unaware of the varying types. The Adept, after recognizing the use of an unknown type of Eldritch, filed it away for future investigation. ------- Prince Velen felt the display of power and smiled. Aaron surely knew how to make a statement, he chuckled to himself. Gods! What an ally he would have been during the reign of the empire, but those days were long gone. In the here and now, Velen would have to be careful and not rouse the temper of the powerful WitchLord. Velen still had no idea what he planned on doing in this age, or more importantly, what Lord Belial hoped to accomplish by tricking Devlin into bringing Velen back. He would have to reflect on it more fully. ------- Aaron left the Central Quarter and the lower city in search of Lord Gnola. He had previously determined the location of the homes of all the 'council' members, so he knew where to go to find Lord Gnola's home. Arriving at the home of Lord Gnola, he stepped in the shadow next to the building and pulled up his hood, shifting to the Shadow Realm. Aaron walked through the wall of the building and into the home. He searched the rooms on the first floor and finally found Lord Gnola lying on the floor in a study, or office. Removing his hood he checked the body which was curled up in the fetal position on the floor. There were no marks upon it, yet he was most assuredly dead. He communed with his swords and learned that Eldritch had been used in here not long before Aaron arrived. Eldritch with a Thangdaemon taint. The only Thangdaemon that Aaron knew for sure was Prince Velen. Why would Prince Velen have killed Lord Gnola? That did not make sense. Was he involved in this conspiracy? Aaron got the distinct impression that Prince Velen had not been in Andor long, though he had two of those knights with him. But Prince Velen did not seem to be a threat to Aaron. Something did not make sense. He would have to tread lightly until he knew who all the players were. Aaron searched the home looking for anything of interest and came up empty handed. He did find a fair amount of gold and removed that and some precious gems as well. It did not make sense to leave the gold and other valuable items just lying around for someone to steal. Aaron let Tanith know everything was alright and stayed in Lord Gnola's home until it turned dark before leaving on his night time errand. The House of Beadle would cease to exist this night! Unfortunately for Aaron, more than one house would see its demise this night! ------- Chapter 16 Lord Devlin was angry; once again his plots and schemes had been thwarted by that damned WitchLord! Well, this time he would make the Tarran feel pain and suffering. He would take away the very thing that tied him to this plane. Perhaps then the Tarran would leave Andor for good. Lord Devlin called his knights before him and explained what was expected of them. There would be no witnesses, there would be no prisoners, there would be no one left to tell the tale of what had transpired. He wanted the humans closest to the WitchLord to suffer, to die at the end, so those humans would be taken and dealt with separately. They would arrive in the manor grounds and all would die! Lord Devlin apportated himself and his nine knights to the grounds of the Duke's manor in Realto. He slammed his staff into the ground and spoke the Eldritch runes of binding and protection; Et El. A stream of red energy erupted out of the end of the staff straight up into the air and cascaded down enveloping the entire area in a hemispherical dome of red Eldritch. No one could enter or leave and normal magic would not work within the dome! The knights went about their master's orders and began slaughtering everyone within the dome. Realto, as well as De la Rose, guardsmen fell and began to pile up like cords of wood. No mere mortal could stand against a Thangdaemon Knight! The knights worked their way through the grounds, killing everything that stood in their way and converged on the manor house. The first to be taken was Master Caleb. A knight overpowered him and bound him in Eldritch bonds and brought him before Lord Devlin. Isabelle and Micah were taken together and were also bound and brought before Lord Devlin. He now held three of the humans most important to the WitchLord, and he planned to execute them. ------- Micah, Isabelle and Master Caleb were having dinner when the alarm was sounded. Caleb asked for Micah and Isabelle to stay inside and had the inside guards stay with them as he went out to investigate. Micah contemplated calling on Aaron, but decided not to, as he needed to learn to handle things for himself. That decision was made in error, yet Micah had no way of knowing that Lord Devlin had already removed the ability to call for outside help. Knights in black plate armor were on the manor grounds and going through the guards like a hot knife through lard. This was the second time that day that Caleb had seen these knights, and he was determined that this would be the last. It would be the last, unfortunately not exactly how Caleb had intended. Caleb ran forward and engaged a knight blocking a thrust from his sword. He had worked with Aaron on successfully engaging one of these knights and he was putting his own tactics to good use. One on one, Caleb was doing alright, but when a second knight engaged him he knew he was outmatched. A quick swing with the flat of the blade and Caleb went down. The next thing he knew he was bound and being dragged over to where a sorcerer of some kind stood watching. Caleb was unceremoniously dumped on the ground at the sorcerer's feet. "You are not going to get away with this," Caleb told the red robed figure. "We will see, human," Lord Devlin replied with a chuckle. Micah, Isabelle and a squad of guardsmen were standing in the great hall when a low fog began to form and the temperature began to drop. The doors swung open and three black clad knights entered the manor and engaged the guardsmen protecting the Duke and Lady. Isabelle tried to cast a spell but nothing happened. The next thing she knew she was backhanded to the ground and bound. She watched as Micah was overwhelmed and knocked to the ground as well. The rest of the guardsmen in the hall were slain. The pair were dragged out of the manor and into the courtyard where Caleb was on the ground in front of a sorcerer dressed in red robes and holding a staff. "Well, well, well, what have we here?" Lord Devlin asked, looking down at Isabelle. "Stand her up," he commanded the knight behind her. The knight reached down and grabbed a screaming Isabelle by the hair and jerked her to her feet. "You leave her alone!" Micah commanded, trying to stand. A knight knocked his feet out from under him and jerked him up into a kneeling position next to an already kneeling Caleb. "So brave," Lord Devlin laughed. "This will be so much better, knowing you have feelings for her." "A human sorceress, and a virgin as well," Lord Devlin sniffed the air, and then reached out and ripped her dress down the front exposing her for all to see. "Yes, she will do nicely for an offering." "Leave her be," Micah screamed trying to struggle free. The knight standing behind Micah backhanded him across the head, causing his vision to blur. "Check her for weapons," he commanded. A knight groped and checked her, removing a dagger and a small wand and then finished removing her ripped clothes. "Hold her," Lord Devlin commanded as a knight pulled her against him groping her as she whimpered. "Kill them," Lord Devlin commanded as Isabelle watched screaming. The two knights standing behind Micah and Caleb raised their swords high in the air and swung them down cleaving them both in two. The blades entered their shoulders, close to the neck and travelled diagonally down through their spines and out the opposed side at the abdomen. The bodies fell forward in two halves. "Milord, everyone is dead," a knight approached and genuflected. Lord Devlin assembled his knights, removed the runes and apportated everyone back to his tower where Isabelle's screams could be heard long into the night, finally ending at dawn. ------- Colin and Calan Beadle were the oldest of four children, all of whom were in the family business. House Beadle was one of the richer merchant houses in the five realms, as well as one of the more influential noble houses of Aithen. They had offices and holdings in all the major cities and their caravans delivered all manner of goods to all cardinal points in the western lands. The loss of a major merchant house would have long term repercussions within the Merchants' Guild and the loss of a major goods supplier would have long term repercussions within the western lands. Aaron visited every home of every member of House Beadle. At each dwelling Aaron killed everyone in the home -- man, woman, child, servants, it didn't matter -- everyone. At every home he left a black rose as his calling card. When he finished with the family members he began with the business members. He finished the last home just before dawn, having completely wiped out House Beadle. He did not return to Anastasia's home, instead he went to the 'Golden Pony' where he procured a room and a hot bath. ------- The Thieves' Guild in Realto learned of the massacre at the manor house just after sunrise and Master Nathan sent a secure communique to Master Drexil in Aithen right away. He didn't realize that Aithen had its own issues, with the demise of the Steward and his entire extended family, as well as the end of a Merchant House. Not one person tied to House Beadle lived. By midday, the news of the death of Duke Calan and the whole of House Beadle sent shockwaves throughout the Merchant Guild and nobility of Aithen. Armed escorts followed all of the merchant masters and other noble houses throughout the day. An emergency meeting of the Guild Council was called by Master Gerard and all the masters brought bodyguards with them. Master Drexil read the report of the demise of the young Duke of Realto and with him the last heir of the House of Blackmoon. It was at this meeting that Aaron would learn that Micah and Caleb were dead and Isabelle was missing. ------- Aaron was up and out of the inn by noon. He had plans to talk with several of the Guildmasters and wanted to see Drexil first. When he arrived at the Thieves' Guild he was notified that the master was not in residence and was in fact at the palace in an emergency meeting of the Guild Council. Figuring that he could kill two birds with one stone, he headed for the palace. He arrived at the palace and was escorted to the chambers of the Guild Council, which were closed as well as guarded. "It is a closed session, Milord," a guard explained. "You are going to have to wait until they are done." "They will see me," Aaron replied, stepping forward. The guard to Aaron's right placed his hand on his hilt as if to draw it when Aaron stopped him. "You will never clear that sword before you die," Aaron stated in a matter of fact manner. "It would be better for you to open the door and take your chances with the masters inside." The second guard nodded and opened the door on his side and Aaron entered. Aaron entered the chambers of the Guild Council to the surprise of everyone inside. "Lord Aaron, I am glad you are alright," Master Drexil stood and approached his liege. "I am sorry about Realto." "So am I, Drexil, so am I," Aaron nodded. "I have dealt with most of the individuals involved." "So quickly, Milord?" Drexil asked. "York just sent the communique this morning." "Wait, back up," Aaron looked at Drexil intently. "What exactly are you talking about? My father being killed or something else?" "Well, yes, I am sorry for the loss of your father, of course," Drexil nodded. "I was speaking of the news out of Realto from last night." "Drexil, what news?" Aaron asked slowly. "Oh Gods! I am truly sorry Milord," Drexil looked down and then back up at Aaron. "Your brother, young Micah was killed last night. The entire manor was murdered, no survivors. I thought you would have already known." "Who found them?" Aaron asked. "You said no survivors?" "I'm not sure who discovered the bodies," Drexil replied, "but that is correct, there were no survivors." "There were things I wanted to discuss with several of the masters here, but that can wait," Aaron stated, clearly agitated. "Good day, masters." Aaron turned and left the meeting room. Out in the hall he had Black Rose apportate him to the manor courtyard in Realto. Arriving in the courtyard Aaron looked around seeing several people moving bodies to a central makeshift morgue. He wanted answers and asked Red Rose if any residual magic could be detected. Red Rose responded that too much time had elapsed and any residue of magic would have already dissipated. He spotted Lieutenant Williams over by the stables supervising the removal of the bodies and went over to talk to him. Lieutenant Williams had been out the day before with a patrol, having arrived back at the manor to find everyone dead. He brought Aaron over to an area of dead bodies covered by tarps and showed him the covered corpses of Captain Snyder, Master Caleb, Master Landon, and finally Micah. Micah and Caleb were cut in two; diagonally, execution style. Their hands were still bound behind their backs; Aaron could feel the energy coming off the red Eldritch bonds. He didn't need to ask Red Rose; he knew what red Eldritch meant. Aaron asked Williams about Isabelle, whom the Lieutenant had previously met, but Williams told Aaron that they had not found her body yet, but they would continue searching. Lieutenant Williams wanted to know about any special dispositions of the bodies, to which Aaron gave him authority to either bury them or burn them, as appropriate. He asked that Micah be buried in the family plot. There was no headstone for his father or uncle, but at least Micah would have one. Aaron also told the Lieutenant that he was in charge of the garrison until relieved by higher authority from Aithen and then dismissed him. Aaron spent some time alone with the bodies of his old Swordmaster and friend, and that of his brother, with whom he had developed a close relationship. The rage threatened to well up out of control on several occasions. Finally, Aaron controlled his emotions and the cold, calculating demeanor returned. Death would be Aaron's partner now and Doom be on the heads of all involved. He wanted answers and he knew where to go to get them. He had Black Rose apportate him to the bridge in front of the gates of Castle Daemongurd. ------- One of the things that Aaron had learned and also taken to heart was the gathering of information balanced against retribution. While retribution would always be the end result, information was difficult to gather from the dead. Master Wheatstone, and Lady Thalia, were recent examples were Aaron's desire for retribution thwarted his intelligence gathering. He had learned from the mistakes of the past. Ultimately, there would always be retribution, but he knew accurate and complete intelligence was just as important. ------- Aaron began drawing power and then banged on the gate, releasing Eldritch and causing the gates to reverberate with the force of the energy. He stood back and waited. Presently the gates swung inward opening, Aaron drew his swords and waited. The portcullis was up and Prince Velen was standing on the other side of the tunnel sword drawn and pointing down at his side. "Prince Whiterune?" Prince Velen called out. "Is there something you want?" "Answers, Prince Velen," Aaron called back. "I want answers." "What are the questions, Milord?" Prince Velen asked. "Did you attack the manor house in Realto?" Aaron asked drawing more of his power. "Did you kill the very people that I told you were important to me?" "No, Milord, I did not," Prince Velen replied. "I told you I would not, and my word is my bond." Aaron felt Prince Velen begin to draw power and reached out and stopped him, and drained him of his power. Prince Velen looked at Aaron in surprise and shock. "How did you do that?" Prince Velen asked, concern, and perhaps a little fear, etched on his face. "That should not be possible." "I have a unique ability," Aaron shrugged. "I want to know why I sensed a Thangdaemon in Realto?" "Milord, I did not kill the humans that you speak of," Prince Velen sheathed his sword. "Tell me why you think so." "Because Eldritch was used," Aaron explained, "Thangdaemon Eldritch and you are the only known Thangdaemon left. Why did you return?" "You are wrong, Milord," Prince Velen shook his head. "I am not the only Thangdaemon Adept left. Please, come inside and we will talk." Prince Velen turned and walked toward the keep, whose doors were standing open. If this was some type of trick, or if Velen was leading him into a trap, Aaron swore to himself that Velen would die first and die slowly, in agony. Aaron followed him at a cautionary distance and watched Prince Velen enter the keep. Aaron also entered the keep and saw that a table had been setup in a side alcove and Prince Velen was sitting in a chair. "Please, Prince Whiterune, sit down," Prince Velen waved at a chair. "I am not a prince, or lord," Aaron sat down. "It is just Aaron." "Alright, Aaron, as I said, I am not the only Thangdaemon Lord," Prince Velen stated. "I did not return, I was summoned, and it did not go the way the summoner had intended, but never the less, I am here. Since we are being informal it is Velen." "Velen, who summoned you and who is the other Thangdaemon Lord?" Aaron asked. "They are one in the same," Velen replied. "Lord Devlin summoned me. He is the one you should be angry with. He also is the one that raised the knights that were with me yesterday." "I know who Lord Devlin is, but I did not realize he was an Adept as you put it. I thought he was just a powerful Necromancer," Aaron replied. "What am I to him, or what is Realto to him?" "Lord Devlin was Chamberlain to my father, while he lived," Velen replied. "He championed the plan that would not only stop the war but achieve ascension in the process. Thangdaemon Adepts are normally called Necromancers, but now always. As for what you are to him; you are a thorn in his side. Realto was most assuredly payback." "For what?" Aaron asked perplexed. "For many reasons," Velen spread his hands. "You were indirectly responsible for him being cast out of the Ethereal Plane. You have disrupted his plans here as well." "I was the reason he was cast out?" Aaron asked, clearly confused. "I thought he was cast out because of a power struggle." "Yes, he was," Velen replied. "He was cast out because he allowed the God Thief to meddle in political affairs on the Material Plane, although he was probably behind that as well. When he was confronted he tried to attack his accuser." "Where is he?" Aaron asked. "Are you intending on confronting him?" Velen asked. "He is very powerful." "So am I, or did you forget that already?" Aaron replied. "Where is he?" "He has a tower directly north of here, beyond the mountains," Velen replied. "He has nine Thangdaemon Knights that do his bidding. That is a formidable force directed against you. Perhaps I can be of assistance there." "How?" Aaron asked. "And why would you?" "I told you, I do not wish us to be enemies," Velen replied. "Your ancestor, Sinthar, and I were close friends. We are almost related, Sinthar was betrothed to my sister." "Rannath is your sister?" Aaron asked. "How do you know her name?" Velen asked. "She was my patron," Aaron replied, "but not any longer. She is the Goddess of Light, and I am anything but, of the light." "Well, that is interesting," Velen smiled. "Goddess of Light, you say? Interesting. Anyway, I wish to help with the knights, but it will take a day or two." "Were you aware that she betrayed my ancestor?" Aaron asked, watching his reaction. "That her actions delivered Sinthar to his enemies, powerless?" "No, I did not," Velen replied with anger. "That bit of information was hidden from me. That makes me want to help you all the more." "That is fine, I will take any advantage," Aaron nodded. "I have other unfinished business that I can see to. How will I know when you are ready?" "Return here in two days," Velen replied. "I will be ready by then." "Two days then," Aaron confirmed and stood. "One other thing," Velen reached out his hand, "Lord Devlin has the 'Staff of Power', and you will need to account for that." "That will not be a problem," Aaron smiled his feral grin. "I will see you in two days." Aaron turned and left the keep, releasing the block on Velen's power. He left the castle and had Black Rose apportate him to Anastasia's residence. Upon arriving outside the home, Aaron knocked and waited. Rac-Nur opened the door and smiled at his liege as he welcomed him back. Tanith was waiting for him in the study so he went there first. He talked with her for several hours about his plans concerning Lord Devlin, and explained about Prince Velen. He explained his feelings about having responsibilities for people other than himself. She wanted to go with him, but he finally talked her out of it. The ladies would need someone to keep an eye on them. He was pretty sure that Lady Laura would want to go home, and he still figured to move House De la Rose to Malkur, but have Anastasia run it completely. Rac-Nur would be staying with Anastasia and help her as needed. "Tanith, I'm worried. I do not know if it is my doom, or what," Aaron tried to explain, "but the things I hold dear are being taken away from me. Starting from my birth mother, to the woman that I loved as mother, all the way to now, with the loss of Micah. I do not want to lose you, now that we have found each other. If I can take care of these outside interferences, then we have a chance, and quite possibly our only chance." "That is fine, you do what you think you have to," Tanith replied. "But know this; I am not some weak damsel that waits for her mate to come home. I do not intend to spend my life in the mountains pining away for you. I can help you. I would make a formidable ally. My race mates for life and now that I have found you, you had better not do anything stupid." "I do not intend to," Aaron smiled warmly. "I am so much stronger than before, and that, coupled with the ability to withhold Eldritch from others, makes me very formidable." "Yes, you are indeed strong," Tanith nodded in agreement. "Perhaps, the strongest of all the second age races that I've ever seen or knew of. Perhaps, even as strong as a first-born. I am a Wyrm, born of Eldritch, together our forces would be unstoppable. Let me help you, let me be at your side. Please, do not shut me out." "Tanith, I know all of that, believe me," Aaron sighed. "I am worried about the others. If you are with them I will feel better. Let me end this and then we will be together." "Alright, I will relocate to Malkur and stay with Anastasia," she stated. "I have an occupation now, though, and I want to explore it, so do not expect me to stay at home and wait for you. Besides, I will be able to keep an eye on Anastasia and Laura as well." "Thank you," Aaron reached over and held her hands. "I am going to have Rac-Nur instruct Anastasia in the way of the sword, which reminds me, do you happened to have a sword that Anastasia could have? Something that could not be purchased at a smith's or armorer's?" "Yes, I have the perfect weapon for her, in my lair. I will fetch it tomorrow," Tanith smiled. "Tanith, something strange is happening," Aaron began, "different races manifest Eldritch differently, right?" "Yes, that is true," Tanith nodded. "I already know where you are going. I saw your Eldritch displayed as silver, not the normal blue of a Tarran Adept." "Yes, I saw it too," Aaron agreed. "What does it mean?" "I am not sure, and I would hate to speculate," Tanith shook her head. "But, I will tell you that silver is the pure manifestation of Eldritch. I just do not know why you are displaying it that way. Perhaps, we can look into it at a later date? Now, there are a few things about Eldritch and runes of power that you do need to know..." Their conversation continued for the better part of an hour and was winding down when there was a knock at the door. Aaron opened it to find Anastasia and Laura. He called for Rac-Nur and then explained his plans for them, as well as his plans as they related to them. He cautioned about the plot out of Creton, which he had not yet had a chance to ferret out. He also needed to spend some time with both Master Drexil and Master Gerard, to make sure that the move to Malkur and establishment of the trading house would go smoothly. He told them that he had a couple of errands to run and would be back later in the evening. ------- Prince Velen's discussion with Aaron was quite enlightening to say the least. He had never met anyone with the power that the young WitchLord commanded. He had never even heard of an Adept that could prevent another Adept from tapping into the flow of Eldritch. Many things were enlightening, probably the most shocking was that his sister still lived, and was part of the plot that betrayed his friend and liege. For although he was a Thangdaemon and prince of his people, he had known Sinthar since they were children and had pledged his life and sword to the young Tarran King. Now to find out that his sister, she who was betrothed to his friend and liege, was part of a plot to betray Sinthar unsettled Velen. He wanted to talk to his sister. "Rannath, attend me," Velen projected to the Ethereal. When he received no response he tried again. "You may be a God now, but you are still my sister and I am still your prince," Velen added power to his words. "By The Three, attend me, now!" "Yes, My Prince," Rannath spat, materializing in the room. With her were Lord Malak and Lord Azrael. "Now, was that so hard?" Velen asked. "Where are your manners, sister? Are you not in the presence of your prince?" Reluctantly the three genuflected and bowed their heads. Rannath more carefully then the other two. She tried to make it look natural and hide her swollen abdomen at the same time. "You may rise," Velen commanded with a tone of haughty disdain and waved his hand upward. "You have much to account for, sister." "To whom? To you?" Rannath asked, her tone equally disdainful, as she stood up. "I do not owe you any explanations." "Perhaps, but, you still owe me answers," Velen replied and pointed to a chair, the same one in which Aaron had sat. "Sit." Velen sat down and poured a glass of wine. Rannath sat down as well, careful to keep her condition hidden, and poured a glass of wine. The two lords took up positions on either side of Rannath. "What? You need bodyguards around me, sister?" Velen inclined his head toward Rannath. "Am I a threat to you?" "I do not know, Velen, are you?" Rannath asked, raising an eyebrow. "Now that you are back, what are your intentions?" "My intentions?" Velen asked. "My intentions are not your concern. What is your concern is that one of your own, one of your so called Gods, has disrupted the order of things. How do you think I returned? What are you going to do about that?" "We have banned him from the Ethereal Plane," Rannath replied. "There is not much more we could do. We have alerted the other Gods and they are watching their faithful and providing intervention when appropriate." "So, you are doing nothing," Velen spat at her, venom in his voice. "I have been pulled from my final rest and dumped back on this plane of existence, and you are watching your faithful." "What do you expect us to do?" Rannath asked. "It is not as if we could kill him." "Begone, you disgust me!" Velen rose and drew Darksoul. "You know this blade, Azrael, and its capabilities. You best caution your Lady liege to leave." "Velen, do not be this way," Rannath stood and backed away. "Help us." "To what gain, Rannath?" Velen asked, lowering his sword. "This has already grown beyond you. Your WitchLord knows who was responsible for the deaths of those he holds dear. And although they were humans, his vengeance will be swift and severe. He may have not been raised in his people's traditions, but mark my words, Prince Aaron is Tarran, through and through. And his power is greater than anyone I have seen or heard of." "What do you know of him?" Rannath asked, dreading the answer. "I know he is powerful, and that is enough," Velen replied. "He plans to end this conflict with Devlin. I believe he can." "Thank you for that information," Rannath replied. "When this is over, perhaps we could talk?" "Oh yes, at the very least we will talk," Velen smiled. "We will discuss your betrayal, but for now your presence sickens me. Take your leave, sister, and take your lackeys with you." The three Gods disappeared and Velen grabbed his wine glass and threw it at the spot where Rannath had been standing. ------- Aaron left the residence and headed to the lower city and the Guild Quarter. He wanted to discuss business with Drexil, so he headed to the Thieves' Guild. Aaron arrived at the guildhall, defeated the traps and entered and was immediately directed to Master Drexil's office. Master Drexil was working late but was happy to serve his liege. Aaron wanted Drexil to know that he fully intended to go forward with House De la Rose's business venture, and to say that Drexil was happy was an understatement. Aaron wanted Drexil to liaison with Malkur and help Anastasia as necessary, which Drexil was glad to do. Aaron explained that for Anastasia's safety, he would not be associated with the business and wanted Drexil as the Thieves' Guild representative. They hammered out the rest of the plan, and Aaron left feeling satisfied that the relationship would not only be good for the guild, but more importantly, for Anastasia and House De la Rose. Drexil reported on everything he had learned in his liege's absence. Most of it Aaron already knew, the information concerning the Black Hand however, was most informative and enlightening. Aaron now knew where to start his search for that elusive organization. He was very pleased with Drexil and expressed it. Aaron left the lower city and headed toward the residential area of the middle city, and the home of Master Gerard Ducote, head of the Merchants' Guild. Stepping into the shadows near Master Gerard's home, Aaron pulled his hood up and shifted to the Shadow Realm. Entering Gerard's house through an outer wall, Aaron stopped to get his bearings and searched the downstairs looking for and ultimately finding the private study of Master Gerard. Entering the room, Aaron made his way to the back corner of the room and removed his hood, shifting back to the Material Plane, and waited. ------- The day had been a disaster for the Merchant's Guild and a nightmare for Master Gerard. Political instability affected the market and the market affected the bottom line. Add to that the loss of a major trading house, all managing partners dead, a rudderless ship of industry, and it was enough to make Gerard ponder retirement. He was physically exhausted when he finally made it home and all he wanted was a light dinner, a glass of wine, a bath, and then bed. He decided on the wine first and let the cook know he would take his dinner in the study. Entering the darkened room, he lit several lamps and poured himself a drink from the decanter on the side bar. Turning toward his desk he saw movement out of the corner of his eye. He turned toward the movement and dropped the glass, spilling its contents and shattering on the floor. Stepping out of the shadows in the corner of the room was Master Whiterune, arms folded and smiling! ------- Aaron waited in the darkened room for perhaps half an hour before the door opened and Master Gerard entered, lit several lanterns, walked over to the sidebar, and poured himself a glass of wine. Aaron stepped out of the shadows and Gerard seeing, the movement, turned toward him and dropped the glass, which spilled the wine and shattered on the floor. Gerard staggered backward and grasped his chest. "Do not die of a heart attack, Gerard," Aaron's voiced rumbled in a chuckle. "Sit down and relax." Gerard looked at Aaron, looked at the door, looked back at Aaron, and finally nodded slowly and walked over to his desk and sat down, hands visibly shaking. "Would you like another glass of wine, Gerard?" Aaron asked, moving toward the sidebar. After receiving a nod from Gerard, Aaron poured two glasses and brought them over and handed one to Gerard and sat on a couch that was perpendicular to the desk and the door. He raised the glass in mock salute and sipped the wine, eyes never leaving Gerard. "We have business to attend to," Aaron sipped the wine and stared at Gerard. "I have decided to divest myself of my shares of House De la Rose. I want them held in trust until Anastasia has reached the age of majority. Marcus, whom you vouched for, is dead. He tried to cheat me and was not working for the best interest of the House. You will now be Anastasia's liaison with the Merchant Guild, and I will hold you personally responsible if there are any irregularities. Do you understand?" "Perfectly, Milord," Gerard visibly swallowed, gulping. "What is it you require of me?" "I am still relocating the House to Malkur," Aaron explained what he wanted. "I will still need headquarters, holdings and a residence there. You will liaise with Malkur regarding Anastasia's desires. You are holding sufficient capital of mine to accomplish those goals. Furthermore, you will assist her in any other way she requires, as well as work with Malkur on her behalf." "Very good, Milord," Gerard wiped his forehead. "Is there anything else, Milord?" "No, there is nothing more that I require from the Merchants' Guild," Aaron replied. "You on the other hand, I will hold personally responsible if some accident should befall Lady Anastasia, do I make myself clear?" "Yes, Milord," Gerard replied. "You can count on me." "I intend to, Master Gerard," Aaron stepped back into the shadows and, pulling up his hood, shifted to the Shadow Realm. Master Gerard watched him disappear and laid his forehead down on his desk and sighed. Maybe it was time to retire. ------- Chapter 17 Aaron was up bright and early and had already practiced and eaten before the rest of the house had even begun to stir. He had one day to wrap up issues before returning to Castle Daemongurd and he had several decisions to make. Should they make the move to Malkur and secure a residence there before he returned to the castle? Did Lord Devlin know where they currently were and should they then move to a more secure location? Would they be safer in Malkur? Would Laura want to return to her home as soon as they arrived? Should he try to deal with Creton before letting Laura return to Malkur? Could he even deal with Creton in one day? A lot of questions, but few answers. Aaron finally determined that he was spending too much time on things out of his control and decided to do something he did have control over. He would leave for Creton and inform the Black Hand of his displeasure in their involvement in the deaths of his family and attempts on his and Tanith's life. But first, he wanted to talk to Darius and learn everything he knew about the Black Hand, however vague or supposed. ------- Master Ruk Telemar had been in Aithen for several days discreetly looking for Lady Laura. His search for the missing abduction crew had led nowhere. His investigation led him to believe that they had aborted the attempt for some reason and were on their way back to Creton. His search of the warehouse that was used as a base of operation had led nowhere as well. The building had been sanitized and no clues were left. Since the halls of the Thieves' Guild in different cities operated more or less autonomously from each other, in a loose confederation, there were certain practical rules when operating in a different hall's territory. As a general rule of thumb a Master Thief arriving in a new city or town would normally check-in with the local guildhall. Guildmasters did not appreciate unsanctioned operations within their territories. Ruk had not stopped by the guildhall as courtesy dictated, which was a serious breach of etiquette and could be viewed as a deliberate act, punishable by immediate termination. Since he was conducting a covert abduction plot that had geopolitical ramifications, he did not want any evidence of his liege's involvement. Master Telemar had tried to find their mole within the palace, but the recent events had driven said mole to ground and Ruk could not locate him. He knew about Lady Laura's obsession with shopping so he had also staked out the shop district, but again luck and Lady Laura eluded him. Master Telemar was not even sure that Lady Laura was still in the city, perhaps she was already on the road to Malkur. Perhaps his men were not on their way home, but were trailing Lady Laura in preparation for taking her on the road from Aithen to Malkur. Still, he needed to satisfy himself as well as his liege that she had indeed left Aithen, so he continued to search for her in both the upper and middle cities of Aithen. Having had zero luck locating her in the upper and middle cities Master Ruk decided to drop down into the lower city and see if perhaps she was down there for some reason. His luck was about to change, unfortunately for him, not for the better. ------- Aaron was just about to leave the house for the lower city and the Guild Quarter when Laura stopped and asked to join him. She wanted to stop by the Merchants' Guild and send her father a letter. She was sure that the news of the death of the King had reached Malkur and she did not want her father to fret. She just wanted to send a letter to reassure him. Aaron explained that it was dangerous right now but Laura countered that everyone had told her that Aaron was the best, that she was safe with him. She needed to get a letter to her father through the guild and Aaron could protect her. He acquiesced to her request and they left for the lower city. Aaron brought Laura to the Assassin's Guild and after leaving her in the outer office entered the Guildmaster's office and discussed the Black Hand with Master Darius. Darius told him everything he knew which unfortunately was not much. In a guild normally shrouded in secrecy, the Black Hand was hidden even farther in the shadows. But that was alright, Aaron was the Lord of the Shadows! While the different halls of the Thieves' Guilds might work together in a large operation, or even routinely exchange information for the benefit of all, the various Assassins' Guildhalls rarely if ever did. Assassins rarely knew who else was in their own guild, and Master Assassins kept their identities a closely guarded secret. Even the guildhall was constructed for secrecy. The outer door would not open if another assassin was inside with the Guildmaster and the exit was different from the entrance. Aaron thanked Darius for the information and, after collecting Laura, left by another door into a different alleyway. Entering the main thoroughfare they were on their way to the Merchants' Guild when Aaron stopped in his tracks and swept his arm back pushing Laura behind him. Aaron was already holding power, but he added to it, in preparation for a fight. Several pedestrians stopped and turned to watch. ------- Ruk was moving through the crowd in the lower city when he spied his quarry. What he did not expect was to see his one time partner, Aaron Blackmoon. "Gods," Ruk thought to himself. "What is Aaron doing here? More importantly, what is he doing with Lady Laura and how am I going to get her away from him." "Just play it loose, Ruk," he said to himself. "Just feel the situation out and above all, do not show your hand." ------- "Red Rose, ward her and protect her," Aaron commanded, momentarily placing his hand on his sword's hilt. "Yes, My Lord," Red Rose replied, its scabbard briefly glowing red. "Ruk, what a surprise," Aaron placed his hand on Black Rose's hilt. "What are you doing in Aithen?" "Aaron, I did not know you lived in Aithen," Ruk Telemar eyed his one time associate. "I would have stopped by to say hello." "Ruk, does Master Drexil know that you are in his city?" Aaron asked. "I'm sure he would have mentioned it to me if someone of your talents was in his city." "I was just on my way to see him," Ruk smiled, and then stared at his quarry. "Aren't you going to introduce me to your friend?" "Where are you calling home now?" Aaron asked, completely avoiding the question. "Creton. Come now Aaron, it is not polite to ignore the niceties," Ruk tilted his head to the side and addressed Laura. "Apparently my friend is being antisocial, my name is Ruk Telemar, what is yours?" ------- When Aaron stopped and pushed her behind him, Laura was going to protest. Then she noticed a man studying them intently, far too intently. She let Aaron shield her and then felt a tingle go up and down her spine. Listening to the conversation she realized two things: Aaron knew this person and Aaron did not trust him at all. When he mentioned he was from Creton, it was all she could do to not audibly gasp. Could this man be looking for her? She kept her mouth shut and listened to the conversation all the while looking for an escape route if the need should arise. ------- "Black Rose, apportate Laura to the study," Aaron commanded his sword. "Yes, My Lord," Black Rose replied. "It is done, My Lord." ------- Laura felt the tingle and vanished, only to reappear in the study of Anastasia's home. She quickly ran and opened the door and entered the hallway shouting. "Tanith! Tanith, Aaron's in trouble!" Laura called out, running for the stairs. "He met some man on the street and apportated me here!" ------- Several people gasped as Laura disappeared and moved off out of the way. Ruk saw Lady Laura disappear and then turned back to Aaron. "How did you do that?" "She is under my protection, Ruk," Aaron grinned his trademark feral grin. "We have a problem, you and I. We are apparently on opposite sides of this situation. That is a bad place for you to be." Ruk was about to reply when a beautiful woman appeared next to Aaron. She was small, slight of build and not very tall, but strength and power flowed out from her, and her appearance was breathtaking. Sapphire crystal blue eyes swirled in an ever changing hypnotic pattern, while a single teardrop pearl hung from a platinum circlet around her forehead, and her skin was so pale that the blue of veins shown through. She was dressed in a platinum sequined bustier that flared at the hips and had off the shoulder silk sleeves, and black leather pants bloused in black boots. Her silver hair, entwined in twin braids banded together in several places, hung like a tail to the small of her back. When she appeared her rapier flashed out, tip held steady under Ruk's chin. The normally busy street was empty, travelers giving the obvious upcoming altercation a wide berth. Several ran toward a small squad of guardsmen entering the thoroughfare. "Hi, love," Tanith smiled at Aaron. "Who is your friend?" "His name is Ruk, Tanith," Aaron chuckled. "He is a thief, and interestingly enough, he is from Creton." "A thief you say, and from Creton?" her voiced hardened as she turned back toward Ruk. "I do not like him already." "Aaron, whoa, it is not what you think," Ruk knew he was in trouble, just not how much. "No, Ruk, It is exactly what I think," Aaron replied, and then saw the guardsmen approaching them with hands on the hilts of their swords. "Tanith, how about your place for a nice quiet chat?" "Yes, love. I was thinking the very same thing," Tanith nodded, seeing the guardsmen as well, and then shifted them to the central room of her lair. Arriving at the lair, Aaron bound Ruk in bonds of Eldritch and then removed his weapons. He asked Tanith to let everyone know that they were alright and then turned his focus to his one time associate. "Ruk, what were you doing in Aithen?" Aaron asked intently. "And don't lie to me." "Aaron, I was just passing through on my way to Re-An," Ruk replied. "I was on my way to the guildhall to check in when I saw you." Aaron turned to Tanith, who gently shook her head no. Aaron turned back to Ruk and frowned. "Ruk, there are two ways this can go," Aaron said. "I can ask you questions and you can answer me truthfully, or I can ask you questions and then cause you a great deal of pain and still get my answers." "Before we begin you should know," Aaron turned toward Tanith, "she will know when you are lying. I also want to give you an in incentive to cooperate." Aaron reached out and touched Ruk's right arm by the bicep with his index finger. He concentrated as a tiny spark of Eldritch lanced out and penetrated the flesh of the arm into the nerve pathways and then travelled down Ruk's arm over-exciting the nerve endings responsible for pain. Ruk screamed as his arm began to burn and throb with a sharp, red-hot pain. Aaron removed his finger and Ruk began to hyperventilate from the intensity of the pain. "Now, let us try this again," Aaron smiled. "What were you doing in Aithen?" "My liege lost some men and wanted me to check on their status," Ruk replied through clenched teeth, trying to get control of the white-hot lancing pain in his arm. "Alright, what were the men doing in Aithen?" Aaron asked. "I am not in the mood for twenty questions, Ruk. I want all the details or your arm will be the least of your worries." Ruk saw no choice and not relishing another incentive from Aaron, told them everything concerning his liege and his desire to wed Laura. The man Aaron had killed in the warehouse had been the point-man for the operation and Ruk was supposed to find him and/or complete the operation. Aaron was happy to learn that he was correct; there had been two completely separate operations that he had stumbled across. He felt more confident that he had uncovered all the layers of both plots. He now knew that Creton was completely separate from the 'council', and just a fluke of a coincidence tied them together. Ruk had told them that his liege had been after Laura since Re-An and that his goblin wizard had contracted the orc raiding party that ambushed them on the road to Aithen. He did not know the whereabouts of the abduction team, and as far as he knew there was no connection with the Black Hand. Aaron conferred with Tanith who confirmed that he was telling the truth or at least the truth as he understood it. The truth was a tricky thing; if a person was lied to and repeats the lie to another as the truth, then in reality the second person has spoken the truth, as far as he knows. "I have told you everything I know," Ruk stated. "Will you let me go, for old time's sake?" "I would ask for your word that you would leave Lady Laura alone," Aaron sighed, "but what is the word of a thief? And if you did, how could you return to Creton and Duke Farhewer? Hmm, that is what we will do; we will visit your liege and explain my displeasure." Although, Aaron had been to Creton several times, he had never been in the presence of the young Duke. He would need better knowledge of the ducal palace before apportating inside of it. He explained his dilemma to Tanith, who had a ready solution. Tanith showed Aaron how to retrieve apportation information from another person and Aaron retrieved several locations from Ruk's memories. "Are you planning on tying up this loose end while at Creton?" Tanith asked, pointing at Ruk. "I will gain no pleasure from it," Aaron sighed, "but, yes, that is my intention." "It will have to be done," Tanith replied, a small smile on her face. "He will always be a nagging threat." "You are right, which reminds me," Aaron turned and held her hands. "I am a fool. Will you come with me when I confront Devlin?" "You are not a fool, and you know I would, without ever having to ask," Tanith chuckled. "We make a good team, love, a very good team." "I am going to pay a call on Duke Farhewer," Aaron explained. "I also want to stop by the hall of the Black Hand. Will you wait for me at Anastasia's? I would like you to figure out a way to keep them safe while we attend to Lord Devlin tomorrow." "Will you not need me in Creton?" Tanith asked. "No, this I can attend to myself," Aaron replied smiling, already planning the incursion, while also trying to shield Tanith from the other skill set he commanded. Tanith grabbed the sword she intended to give to Anastasia and gave Aaron another kiss and left for Aithen and Anastasia's home. She already knew how she would protect Rac-Nur and the two women while she and Aaron were away. "Well, Ruk, it is time to visit your liege," Aaron announced and had Black Rose teleport them to the audience hall of the manor house in Creton. ------- Duke Gunter Farhewer II was in his audience chamber in a trade meeting with a delegation of half-elves from the city-state of Loudin on the edge of the Western Realm. It was a semi-private meeting with the three member delegation, Duke Farhewer, and Daburt Stonefang, the Duke's goblin Chamberlain. The meeting had just started when Aaron and Ruk appeared in the middle of the chamber. Aaron was holding Red Rose in his left hand. "Red Rose, ward the room, no one leaves or enters," Aaron commanded his sword, as he put up a barrier with Eldritch, to prevent the goblin from accessing his power. "Yes, My Lord," Red Rose replied as the doors glowed with a silvery light and sealed shut. "We have an issue to discuss, Duke Farhewer," Aaron declared and then addressed the half-elven delegation. "Do not interfere." Chamberlain Daburt tried and failed to pull power from the stone and rocks in preparation for casting a spell. He still had his staff so he prepared to cast a spell using the power stored within it when it went flying from his hand. "I will take that," Aaron chuckled as the staff flew through the air and into his outstretched hand. Aaron concentrated and the hand holding the staff glowed with a bright silver hue as silvery flames flickered up and down the staff. Aaron pointed the staff at the wizard. "Et," Aaron commanded, pronouncing the rune of binding. A beam of silver energy encircled Daburt, causing him to freeze, as his hands dropped to his side. The three half-elves stepped away from Duke Farhewer and kept their hands in plain view. "Duke Farhewer, Lady Laura is under my protection," Aaron smiled as he dropped the staff to the floor and sheathed Red Rose. "I will look unfavorably on anyone that causes her harm. You do not want me to look unfavorably on you." "I am normally not in the habit of giving warnings," Aaron continued. "Do not force me to revisit this discussion." "It was a foolish move, I know that," Duke Farhewer hung his head. "I was just trying to get her attention." "By kidnapping her?" Aaron asked incredulously. "Duke Farhewer, you really need better counselors. Why did you not just approach her father?" "He doesn't think much of me," Duke Farhewer replied. "Could you call me Gunter, my uncle was Duke Farhewer and I am still not used to the title." "Well, he certainly will not think much of you after he finds out you tried to kidnap his daughter," Aaron replied exasperatedly. "Have you even met her?" "No, but I saw her several years ago, when I accompanied my uncle to Malkur, for a trade meeting," Duke Gunter replied. "She is so beautiful." "You are going to have to ask her forgiveness," Aaron replied, and then contacted Tanith through their bond. "Tanith, would you ask Laura to accompany you and come here? Duke Gunter Farhewer has something he would like to say to her." "I will ask her," Tanith replied through their bond. "How am I going to accomplish that?" Duke Gunter asked. "She probably hates me and would never even consent to give me an audience." "Let me take care of that," Aaron replied. "Aaron, the room is warded," Tanith gently admonished him. "You really must remove the wards if you want me to appear there." "Oops, sorry," Aaron replied. "Red Rose, remove the wards." "It is done, My Lord," Red Rose replied as Tanith appeared next to Aaron with Laura, Anastasia, and Rac-Nur. Duke Gunter Farhewer rose from his chair and bowed before Lady Laura and begged her forgiveness for the kidnapping attempt. He explained his reasons and she was flattered if somewhat concerned about the way in which he had proceeded. While they were talking, Aaron released Ruk and brought Daburt his staff and removed the rune of binding as well. He dismissed the Chamberlain and the half-elvish delegation, and the Chamberlain escorted them to their rooms. Ruk stayed and he and Aaron renewed their acquaintance. Aaron introduced Tanith, Anastasia, and Rac-Nur to Ruk, who was impressed with the dark elf, having never met one. They spent a comfortable afternoon together discussing politics, trade, and current events. Aaron kept note of Gunter and Laura and was somewhat surprise to see them laughing and leaning in toward one another, talking. He noticed Gunter touch her arm on several different occasions, becoming more and more familiar and even the normally reserved Laura was responding in kind. Aaron smiled to himself feeling like a matchmaker. Truth be told, an alliance between Malkur and Creton would be good for the Central Plains and trade in general. While he didn't regret his actions, the loss of a major merchant house would have long term effects on trade in the five realms. The marriage of two major houses could go a long way toward stability. It was something that should be watched and if Laura was agreeable, then encouraged. Duke Gunter invited them to stay for dinner, and while Aaron had other plans, the rest decided to take the duke up on his kind offer. Aaron and Tanith whispered together for quite some time and it was decided that she would see to the security and safety of all involved, while Aaron paid a certain sub-sect of the Assassins' Guild a visit to express his displeasure on their involvement in recent geopolitical events. Aaron wished everyone good evening and left after asking for an escort to the palace gates. Aaron utilized the other, lesser yet still unique, ability of his cloak and faded into the evening's dimming light and moved away from the ducal palace and toward his objective: the location of the Black Hand. Arriving at an Apothecary shop he entered and made note of the tinkle of the bell attached to the door. He walked up to the counter. "May I help you, good sir?" the shopkeeper asked. "Yes, what can you tell me about this?" Aaron asked, placing a black arrow on the counter; the head covered by a leather sheath. The shopkeeper looked down at the arrow and then back up at Aaron. Aaron saw the shopkeeper move his hand to the underside of the counter and quickly grabbed the arrow, removed the sheath and drove it into the shopkeeper's neck, killing him instantly. Aaron let the body fall to the floor and went over to the door and locked it. He pulled the shades on the front windows and returned to the counter. His investigation revealed a trip mechanism under the counter and Aaron searched for and found two small holes in the front of the counter at thigh level. Inside the holes were spring loaded darts which when activated by the trip mechanism would surely kill anyone standing in front of the counter as Aaron had been. Aaron carefully removed the arrow, re-sheathed the head and stowed it away and then searched the body and removed his assassin's token. He stood up and removed a black rose from his bag and dropped it on the body. A thorough search of the backside of the counter and display wall, revealed a secret door and after verifying that there were no traps, Aaron prepared himself for what might be found on the other side. With Red Rose in his hand and an essence brimming with Eldritch, Aaron gently and silently opened the door and slipped inside, closing the door behind him. He was in a dark antechamber with a door on the other side. Aaron pulled up his hood and shifted into the Shadow Realm. Aaron had no sooner entered the Shadow Realm when the opposite door opened and several darts flew through the air and stuck into the door through which he had just entered. A moment later a black cloaked shape entered the room and looked around, clearly confused. Aaron concentrated and reached out and grabbed the shape by the back of the cloak and dragged them into the Shadow Realm. Removing the hood revealed a woman, whom the denizens of the Realm pounced upon, consuming her life force. The female assassin died screaming. Aaron returned her to Material Plane and walked through the door into an unoccupied office. After verifying he was alone, Aaron removed his hood and shifted back to the Material Plane. A thorough search of the room turned up a hidden door which led to a set of stairs leading down to a passageway heading away from the shop. Aaron returned to the antechamber and searched the body. Other than a token, which he pocketed, he discovered nothing except a wicked looking curved dagger, which he left. He also left a black rose. Aaron slowly and carefully took the passageway which descended about 30 feet and then leveled out, heading in a north-westerly direction away from the shop and toward the foothills. There were torch sconces mounted on the wall every fifteen feet or so, giving off a weak light; just enough to see by, without affecting a person's night vision. Aaron picked his way down the passageway staying close to the sides and in the shadows. Aaron froze as he saw movement up ahead. Reaching behind his back he removed the twin daggers hiding there. A shape moved by him in the opposite direction toward the apothecary shop and the dead bodies there. After ensuring the shape was alone, Aaron fell in behind it and struck with both daggers, puncturing a lung and heart, killing it instantly. He dragged the body further into the shadows and searched it, removing a token and leaving all else. Aaron left a black rose on the body and continued on. Eventually, Aaron felt the passageway start to rise toward the surface and he slowed his movement to ensure that he could not be detected. Hearing movement up ahead he paused and then slowly advanced, hugging the passageway wall. The area ahead of him was weakly lit by a crescent moon as Aaron made his way to the opening and a small town within the mountains. The home of the Black Hand! Town was probably a misnomer; full-time camp with different training areas was a better description. There were semi-permanent tents on platforms, outbuildings, stables, obstacle courses, fighting rings, and other buildings whose purpose he could not be sure of. There were also several guard towers and roving guards as well. Aaron could not be sure but he felt there must be another entrance, or quite possibly, multiple entrances. There was no way that horses could have been brought in by the passage under Creton. Aaron knew that there was no way he could take on the entire camp and come out the victor. He also knew that he could not eliminate the Black Hand completely. His intentions were to bloody the organization; to let them know that they were not invincible, that they were in fact vulnerable to attack. Aaron wanted to leave a message, he just needed a way. He decided that it would be better to search undetected, so he pulled up his hood and shifted into the Shadow Realm. Aaron was searching the camp looking for anything that would make a statement when he came across a guarded building that looked like it might be the headquarters. The fact that it was guarded, and was the largest and most permanent structure, told him that at the least it most hold some value. Aaron walked right past the two guards stationed in the front and through the door into a long open foyer or great hall. There were several doors off of each side and double doors in the back. A search of the front revealed nicely furnished private quarters off of hallways, accessed from the main hall. These were not just rooms for average members, no, these rooms were well maintained and lavish compared to the tents in the main camp area. The first few rooms housed two per room and that is where Aaron started. Aaron shifted back to the Material plane and randomly picked one of the occupants in each two-person room. He placed one hand over the mouth of his victim and promptly slit their throat from ear to ear. Intriguingly enough, Aaron noted more female assassins than male assassins. He carefully placed a black rose on the chest of each victim and then crossed their hands over the rose. Aaron used no discernible pattern when picking each victim as he worked his way through the two-person rooms. He repeated the procedure in the single person rooms, also picking his victims at random, but always making sure that there were occupied rooms on one side or the other. Aaron worked his way through the rooms until he ended up at the double doors, in his wake some eighteen assassins lay dead, journeymen and masters alike. Aaron pulled up his hood, shifted to the Shadow Realm and stepped through the double doors and found himself in a large meeting room, with maps of the five realms, as well as maps of the major cities, on the walls. Aaron figured that he was in the nerve center of the Black Hand. Removing his hood, he shifted back to the Material Plane. The map of the five realms intrigued Aaron. Studying it closer, Aaron noted several locations with the same marker as the location he presumed he was currently at. Making a mental note of the locations, Aaron then cut a slit above the marker for the camp and slid a black rose into it. Having satisfied himself that his presence would be known, Aaron had Black Rose apportate him back to the house in Aithen. Tanith was glad he was back, and queried him on what he had found. He told her about the shop and the tunnel. He told her that he had found a map that gave various locations for either training sites, or staging areas. He planned to visit as many as he could and bring the fight to the organization that was directly responsible for the deaths of his family. They had bloodied Aaron, now it was Aaron's turn. He did not intend to just bloody the Black Hand; he intended to wipe them from Andor. Either the Black Hand would cease to exist or Aaron would die in the attempt. ------- Chapter 18 Prince Velen actually spent the day which he had requested for preparation searching the upper rooms of the keep. There were things he was looking for, not the least of which was the royal ring of Thangdaemon. With it he could control the knights that Devlin had raised. Without it he probably still could, but it would be more difficult, much more difficult. The location of the ring was a question he would have liked to ask Devlin, but Velen did not want to tip his hand, to the point that he did not ask Rannath either. He figured that Devlin did not have it, or he would have seen it on the Necromancer's finger, and likewise with Rannath. No, the ring was not being wielded, which meant it must be here, probably still with his father, since Velen, the heir, was already dead at the time of his father's death. Velen had an idea and went to the small chapel off the main hallway on the second floor. The chapel was the private sanctuary for the Thangdaemon Kings and also contained a secret room that held a transportation platform. The secret room was not his destination, however. Rather, the chapel itself was. His father's tomb was not there though, but a small urn and box rested on an obsidian altar in a small alcove, lit by candles. In front of the altar was a small kneeling bench and that was Velen's destination. Kneeling at the bench, Velen spent several moments in prayer and silent supplication. Feeling refreshed, he rose and reverently approached the altar and opened the small box revealing a white metal ring set with a large red gem. Within the gem an intricate rune glowed and pulsed with power. The ring was similar in design and function to the ring Aaron wore on his left ring finger. Velen removed the ring on his left hand ring finger and placed it on the altar next to the urn. He then removed the ring from the box and slipped it on the same finger. The ring fit perfectly and Velen could feel the power, which supplemented his own. With this ring no Thangdaemon could refuse him, well, no Thangdaemon without the added might of Eldritch. Now that he had the ring there were other things also available to him. Moving to the opposite side of the room, He moved a painting revealing a small depression in the wall. Rotating the ring around, he pressed the palm of his hand on the wall with the gem in the depression. A section of the wall slid in and to the left revealing a secret room. Velen entered the room which contained his father's armor, which consisted in black adamantine chain mail, enchanted leather jerkin, and enchanted bracers. Next to the armor was the royal Sceptre of Thangdaemon. The sceptre was roughly two feet long with a spiked end and a large blood red gem on top. It was fashioned out of a silver metal; not silver, or mithril, but a denser metal, inscribed with various runes. The sceptre was a powerful relic that channeled Eldritch, a very useful tool. With the ring and sceptre, Velen's power increased dramatically. Now he was prepared for the upcoming battle. ------- Aaron spent the rest of the evening with Tanith going over the plan for the next day. Tanith had an idea of how to keep everyone that was staying in the house safe and she presented it to him. Satisfied that everything he could control he would be able to, he and Tanith retired for the night. After getting ready for bed, Aaron sat on the edge of the bed and watched Tanith begin to get ready, as well. Watching her remove her bustier and leather pants, brought feelings of arousal to Aaron and when he touched his mate he found her of the same mind. They made love quickly and quietly as they were both feeling apprehensive about the coming day. Afterwards, they settled into a comforting sleep with their limbs entwined. Aaron awoke just as the rays of the sun reached the tops of the walls of the high city. Tanith was already dressed in her full battle dress of padded leather bustier, leather pants bloused into supple doeskin knee-high boots, rapier belted to her left hip, and matching dagger at her right. Aaron dressed quickly, checking his own weapons. They then left their room heading for the dining room and something to break their fast. The cook had been up early as well and was serving hot cereal with honey and roasted spiced meats. Warm bread and a brewed herbal tea completed the meal. When they had arrived the room was empty, but by the time they had finished, the entire house was up and at breakfast. Rac-Nur tried unsuccessfully to convince his master that he should accompany them when they left. Aaron explained that his one fear was that something should befall Anastasia or Laura while he was gone and only Rac-Nur staying and protecting the women gave him peace of mind and allowed him to concentrate on the task at hand. Rac-Nur accepted his master's explanation and orders, and vowed to protect the ladies with his life. Tanith explained her plan for protecting the household and that they would have to remain inside until she returned. After ensuring there were no other questions or comments Aaron gave each of the ladies a hug and clasped Rac-Nur on the shoulder before he and Tanith turned and left. Outside of the home Tanith performed the rite of binding. Silver Eldritch flowed from her hands to the door spreading out and encircling the entire building. Now, only a Wyrm could enter or remove the bonds. Nodding at Aaron she stepped back and he had Black Rose transport them to the Castle Daemongurd. ------- The main training camp of the Black Hand was abuzz with the news that they had been infiltrated over night. Almost fifteen of their instructors and four masters were found dead in their beds, throats slit. More alarming was that some of the dead were found by the other person occupying the room, who had not been disturbed during the bloody night. All had their throats slit, from ear to ear, and all were holding roses, as if they were arranged for a viewing by an undertaker. The guards were questioned and none reported seeing intruders, and they used the plural of intruder, assuming, wrongly, that the nighttime raid had been the work of several men. The guards were then summarily executed for dereliction of duty. The leadership traced the entry point by the trail of dead bodies through the tunnel to the shop in Creton. They had the access from within the shop in Creton blocked, and the tunnel filled in by magical means. There were other accesses to the isolated canyon that could and would be used from then on. The defacement of the map within the headquarters was not revealed to the members or the trainees, but the leadership was concerned. Their inner sanctum had been violated, and now their various safe havens and hidden locations were identified to forces unknown. How could a force make it through the camp while nobody heard or saw anything? The leadership decided to immediately begin an investigation into the meaning of the black rose, and to tighten security measures drastically. There was an information blackout; the Black Hand did not want it revealed that they were vulnerable, vulnerable within their very stronghold. The Black Hand needed to find the intruders and deal with them harshly! ------- Aaron and Tanith arrived on the arched bridge and entered the open gates, and found Velen waiting on the steps of the keep. Velen was dressed in a leather padded jerkin, leather pants, sword belted at his side and holding a silver rod in the crook of his left arm. "Aaron, Milady, good morrow," Velen smiled acknowledging them. "Velen," Aaron nodded. "Did you find a way to wrest control of the knights away from Devlin?" "Yes," he replied. "This is my plan..." They spent a few moments going over how Velen would prevent the knights from interfering. Velen also described the location well enough that Tanith could transport them there without any difficulties. Velen would not be traveling with them, he intended to follow and then claim authority over the knights. Aaron's plan was simple: strip Devlin of his power and then kill him. He tried one more time to dissuade Tanith from accompanying him. "Tanith my love, I would rather that you not accompany me into this battle," Aaron tried to explain. "I can face Devlin alone. I do not want to take the chance that you would be hurt, or Gods forbid killed, if the battle spills over." "I swore an oath to be with you always," Tanith countered. "You cannot release me from that oath, and I refuse not to honor it! We are bound in ways that transcend both time and space, and I will be standing by your side, no matter what transpires. We can overcome whatever we face as long as we are together." Aaron stopped pacing around and came up to face her. Her features were set in a look of defiance and her eyes were ablaze. He put his hands on her shoulders and moved in to kiss her passionately. "Then that is the way it will be. Together we will be forever." "Velen, are you ready?" Aaron asked, turning to face him. "Yes," he replied. "I will take care of my part." "Tanith, shall we?" Aaron held her hands. She leaned forward and gave him a kiss in reply. Aaron had Black Rose transport him and Tanith to the Black Tower. Velen waited several moments and followed. ------- "Milady? Milady, we have found the WitchLord," a Godling reported. "He has just appeared at the Black Tower." "What?" Rannath replied fading into view. "He is where?" "The Black Tower, Milady," the Godling replied. "Are you sure?" Rannath asked, already dreading the answer. "Yes, Milady, it has been confirmed," the Godling reported. "He has just attacked Lord Devlin. Wait! Prince Velen has just appeared there as well." "Brethren, there are unsettling events transpiring on the Material Plane," Rannath spoke to the Ethereal. "I request a council." Gods and Goddesses began to fade in to view and gave Rannath their attention. "Lords and Ladies," Rannath began, "troubling events are spiraling out of control on the Material Plane; events that could have long term ramifications. As much as I loathe to say it, we must come to the aid of our fallen brethren. Lord Devlin is in trouble and we must render assistance if he asks." "Lady Rannath, are you sure?" Lord Azrael asked. "It is trouble of his own making, and do not forget who he is in trouble with." "Who?" Lord Gawain, God of War, asked. "And why is it our concern? Devlin was banished from this august body." "The WitchLord, Lord Gawain," Lord Azrael answered and then turned back to Rannath. "Devlin has made his bed, I say let him lie in it." "As much as it pains me to say," Lord Malak smiled. "I have to agree with Lord Azrael, this trouble is all of Devlin's doing." "He is still our brother," Lady Rannath countered. "We must render aid." "I have to agree," Lady Melody, Goddess of Music, entered the discussion. "He is still one of us after all, even though Lord Azrael is correct that it is of his own doing. But we also share in these events; we should have interfered earlier and perhaps prevented a lot of this." The discussion went on for some time and eventually it was decided to render aid, so they gathered their power and shifted to the Material Plane and transported to the location of the Black Tower. ------- Because of Lord Devlin's arrogance, he was not as protected as he should have been. The vale had no additional protections or wards set, nor any traps or delaying devices installed. Lord Devlin counted on his skill and power as a Thangdaemon Necromancer to overcome any obstacle in his path. In most cases that skill and power could defeat most Adepts and would normally win the day, unfortunately this was not a normal day and Aaron was not most Adepts. Lord Devlin would have scant chance to rue his overconfidence. ------- Aaron and Tanith arrived in the vale, in front of the tower. Aaron released a ball of silver energy at the tower door, causing it to explode sending shards of wood everywhere. "Lord Devlin," Aaron called out. "Come out and account for your actions. I demand satisfaction." They could hear the laughter as Lord Devlin stepped around the shards of the broken door and left the tower. "You, demand satisfaction from me?" "Well, upstart, here I am," Lord Devlin declared. "Knights, we have company, where are your manners?" Nine mailed knights streamed out of the door of the building to the left of the tower and formed up in a concave semi-circle facing Aaron and Tanith. Tanith pivoted to face the knights and began to store power in preparation for the upcoming fight. Aaron kept his attention on Devlin. Either Velen would arrive and do what he intended, or Tanith would have to deal with the knights. Either way they were not his concern. Aaron wanted Devlin. Aaron drew Red Rose as protection against wards and runes of power. The sword howled in anger, runes blood red, pulsing with power, as silver flames flickered up and down the blade. Aaron attacked Devlin with a silver ball of energy, which the Necromancer batted away with his hand as he began to draw power in preparation for his own attack. "You will not be needing that," Aaron smiled a feral grin as he blocked Devlin's access to power and begun to siphon off what he was already holding. Aaron then wove a barrier around Devlin preventing him from accessing Eldritch. Devlin looked at him in surprise and even a slight tinge of fear and then prepared a different attack. Lord Devlin shot a blast of Eldritch through the Staff of Power, which Aaron batted aside with Red Rose. Aaron then began to draw more power. A quick glance toward Tanith reassured him that she was holding her own by keeping the knights immobilized. Turning back to Devlin, who began to weave his staff and started muttering words, Aaron realized he needed to defuse the power of the staff or block it somehow, thereby eliminating all of Devlin's power. ------- When the knights came out of their barracks Tanith turned and began weaving her hands as she pronounced the rune of holding; Damna. The knights froze in place, but Tanith saw their rings glow red and realized that the rune might not hold them long. She added Eldritch to the rune strengthening it. "Velen better show up soon," Tanith thought. "Otherwise I will take matters into my own hand and there will be no more knights!" ------- Aaron was still holding Red Rose in his left hand so he extended both hands out and somewhat together palms displayed outward. The air between his two hands began to swirl with power as a ball of silver energy formed and a beam of Eldritch shot out of the ball straight at Devlin. Devlin put his hands up and out as if trying to protect himself from an attack, which he was, and pronounced the rune of protection: El. The beam of silver Eldritch hit the shield of red Eldritch from the staff as Devlin strained forward trying to keep his balance. Aaron continued to pump power into his attack drawing power from everywhere, his eyes glowing silver as his body began to glow as well. Devlin leaned forward as the onslaught continued, his shield now ragged around the edges as the point of attack began to glow brighter and brighter. Without his own ability to access power it would not be much longer before Devlin's shield would fail and with it Lord Devlin himself. Devlin saw Prince Velen appear and thought his salvation was at hand and called out to him. "Prince Velen, I need your aid," Devlin declared, the strain evident in his voice. "What makes you think I am here to aid you, Lord Devlin?" Prince Velen chuckled evilly, nodded to Aaron and then walked over to where Tanith was standing. "My Lady, I can take over from here," Velen smiled. Tanith tipped her head, removed the rune of holding, and stepped aside. "Knights, kneel before your prince," Velen commanded, holding his left hand out, palm down. In his right hand he held the Thangdaemon sceptre; the Rod of Rulership. The gem in the ring on Velen's finger glowed brightly as the knights, knelt as one, paying homage to their prince. "This is not your fight. Withdraw!" Prince Velen commanded. "Gather your things and your horses. We are leaving." Again as one, the knights banged their chests with their fists, rose, turned and entered the barracks, following their prince's orders. "Good day, My Lady," Prince Velen brought his right fist to his left breast, saluting Tanith. "I do not believe Aaron will require any further assistance from me." The knights returned with their horses and Prince Velen apportated them all back to Castle Daemongurd. Tanith shook her head and turned to aid her mate. ------- Aaron was not even exerting himself as Eldritch flowed through him and then out, focused through his hands. The same could not be said for Lord Devlin who was straining to keep the attack at bay, his shield failing more and more with each passing moment. Devlin dropped to one knee, still holding the staff trying to maintain his shield, as Aaron's powerful beam inched closer and closer, warping the shield inward toward Devlin. "Black Rose, in a moment you may take his soul," Aaron spoke to his sword. "Just as soon as I take all of his power away." "Yes, My Lord," the sword replied almost gleefully. Across from Aaron's right and next to Lord Devlin a host of Gods appeared arranged in a triangle, each holding a staff of blonde wood. Rannath was at the point of the triangle, facing Aaron. Lord Azrael was conspicuously absent and noted as such by Aaron. "My brethren, I need your help," Lord Devlin called out. "I declare sanctuary." "Aaron, it is enough," Rannath commanded. "You have defeated him." "Not even close, My Lady," Aaron responded. "Do not interfere, this does not concern you." "Aaron, yes it does," Rannath replied. "Lord Devlin has declared sanctuary, you must stop. We will take it from here." "Where were you when he slew my family?" Aaron asked, trying to split his concentration between Devlin and now the host of Gods. "I say no quarter! It will be over when my sword feasts on his soul! Stand aside, Rannath!" The Gods attacked, focusing their power through Rannath at the point of their formation. A beam of white Eldritch struck Aaron knocking him backward onto the ground and more importantly disrupting his concentration. The fact that Aaron was holding as much power as he was acted like a shield and prevented the attack from causing more damage than just knocking him to the ground, dazed. The attack on Devlin stopped and he slumped forward holding his staff for support. Rannath looked at Aaron in horror; her attack should not have caused that. She only wanted to disrupt his attack on Devlin. Someone had manipulated the attack for their own gain. She did not have more time to ponder what happened because the woman next to Aaron's prone body screamed and attacked with Eldritch. Tanith screamed and struck with numerous balls of energy, firing one right after another. Rannath barely turned the attack aside; aided by the power she was receiving from the other Gods. Tanith followed up with twin beams of energy from the palms of her hands, directed straight at the focal point of the God's formation: Lady Rannath. The gods fought back her attack and then shifted their attack at Tanith who screamed in rage and fought off the counter-attack as she grew to her full height and shape. "By the Three, she is a first-born!" Rannath exclaimed. "A Wyrm!" Tanith unfurled her wings for balance and spewed acid at the Gods, followed up by Wyrm fire, enveloping them in both acid and flames. Rannath had a split second to turn her attack into defense and covered the host in an Eldritch shield, protecting them from the Wyrm's dual attack. Even as the Wyrm was breathing fire, her arms were gesturing, weaving the rune of binding. Aaron was stunned and lay disoriented on his back as Devlin made it to his feet and smiled as he approached his enemy. With the disruption of Aaron's attack, the block on Devlin's ability to access Eldritch was removed and he began to store power in preparation for the kill. He walked slowly over to Aaron and raised the Staff of Power in a strike position and was about to bring it down on Aaron's head when he was suddenly knocked back by a beam of emerald green Eldritch! ------- Although Prince Velen had withdrawn from the battle taking the knights with him, he was still curious about the outcome. He did not want Devlin to win the day, so he decided to observe the battle from the relative safety of his castle. "The battle is going well," Devlin chuckled to himself as he watched with great interest Aaron's attack. It never hurt to know the strengths and weaknesses of potential adversaries or even allies. Velen was a little alarmed when the Godly host showed up and tried to intervene. "Oh, so now they intervene," Velen spat. "How very typical of my sister and her ilk. Well, I shall fix that and put even more distance in her relationship with the WitchLord." Prince Velen concentrated and added a little extra something to the Godly attack. "By the Three, that was too much," Velen looked on worried. "I did not mean to knock him down. By the Three, Devlin is going to defeat him! Wait, what is this? Help from an unlikely source. So, an Elfen Witch, I will need to keep an eye on her." ------- Mara watched with interest the events developing at the Black Tower. She would have her revenge without having to involve herself. The Thangdaemon cur responsible for her imprisonment would receive his just deserts this day. Wait, what is this? Why were they aiding the cur? Not fair, not fair! "What are those Thangdaemon Gods doing there?" Mara asked herself. "Wait a moment here, they should not be interfering. "What to do, what to do?" Mara got up and paced. "I am going to have to throw my lot in with him. He had better realize the sacrifice I am making." Mara gathered herself in preparation for the battle. She figured she would have to attack as soon as she materialized, so she had her stone out, in its blondewood tripod. Placing her left hand on the stone, her right hand grasping her staff, Mara apportated to the Black Tower. ------- Mara appeared in the vale just behind and to the left of Aaron and attacked Lord Devlin as he was about to deliver a killing strike with his staff. She hit Devlin in the chest with a beam of Eldritch from her stone, knocking him backward and onto the ground, his staff spinning away from his grasp. "Come on boy, get up!" Mara called to Aaron. "Do I have to keep saving your Tarran carcass?" Aaron shook his head, trying to clear it, and rose to his feet, sheathing Red Rose. He drew Black Rose and turned his head back to Mara. "I thought you were not going to side with a Tarran?" Aaron chuckled. "I thank you for it, though." He began to draw more power and more power, in preparation for ending the battle. Aaron turned back to Devlin and the smile turned deadly as he approached the fallen Thangdaemon Necromancer, still stunned by the Elfen Witch's attack. Smiling wider, he grasped Black Rose's hilt in both hands, lifted the sword high into the air, and plunged the blade into Lord Devlin's chest, piercing his heart. "His soul is yours, Black Rose," Aaron commanded. "I do not want him wandering the planes of Hell waiting for someone to free him." "AS YOU COMMAND, MY LORD," the sword replied taking Lord Devlin's soul. "Enough," Aaron screamed, turning toward the battle between Tanith and the Gods. Aaron reached out and pulled down the God's shield and swept his hand to the side knocking the Gods off their feet with a blast of his energy. Tanith looked down at her mate and smiled. Releasing the flow of fire and shifting to her bipedal shape, she moved to Aaron's left side and waited. "Now, that was impressive, my love," Aaron turned and kissed her. "Not nearly as impressive as that," Tanith smiled, pointing to the Gods lying on the ground in disarray. He turned back to the Godly host, who were shakily getting back to their feet, and blocked their power from them. He then drew Red Rose and added more power, until the whole vale was awash in silvery light. "Leave this realm now or suffer my wrath," he commanded, eyes ablaze in silver, swords drawn, runes ablaze, silver fire flickering up and down the blades. "You do not command us," Lord Malak declared. "Really?" Aaron replied and then stripped the God of Truth of his power. "I can make that permanent, which does give me the right to command you. There are more Thangdaemon souls I could take this day. Now begone, before I rethink my generosity." Lord Malak looked at Aaron in horror as he felt his godly powers gone and a feeling of mortality returned. He stepped back seeking protection from the other Gods. "Aaron, we did not mean... , I did not mean for that to happen," Rannath stepped forward to try to explain, but came up short when the first-born pulled a wicked looking rapier and pointed it straight at her. "We were only trying to prevent further bloodshed." "It is time for you to leave, Rannath," Aaron stated flatly. "Leave, before I run you through long before he strips you of your powers," Tanith added menacingly, her sword glowing silver. The Gods faded from view, taking the body of Lord Devlin with them. Aaron turned and hugged Tanith and kissed her. He was interrupted by the throat clearing of Mara. Letting go of Tanith, Aaron looked at his savior. "Mara, I know our people were enemies," Aaron smiled approaching her and sheathing his swords. "I do not want to continue that." "Well, I suppose we could be less hostile," Mara smiled back. "I see you found someone to keep you in line. I guess it makes sense that it would take a first-born to do that." "Mara, simply Mara, may I present my love, Tanith," Aaron made the introductions. "Tanith," Aaron smiled. "This is Mara, we have a certain history, where we both benefited." Tanith nodded at Mara, who nodded back. "Thank you, Mara," Aaron turned and kissed her on the cheek. "Thank you for being there when I needed a less hostile hand." "Hail, and well met, Tarran," Mara raised her hand fading from view. "Hail, and well met, Elfen," Aaron replied to the empty space. He turned to Tanith and pulled her into another hug and just held her tightly. Finally releasing her, he told her he had something to do before they departed, then stepped aside and walked over and stood in front of the tower. Aaron could actually feel the wrongness emanating from the tower. Evil had been done inside that structure, great evil. It was a blight on an otherwise tranquil vale and needed to be removed. Aaron shook his head in an attempt to throw off the affects of standing close to the tower and begun to draw power. He continued to store power until he felt he had enough and then stretched out both hands palms outward as twin beams of silver energy hit the tower. The tower began to emit a deep soul shivering moan as Aaron's power flattened out against the structure and began to expand covering the base of the tower. The tower began to glow with a blackness that threatened to absorb all the light in the vale, almost as if the tower was trying to fight back. A smoldering black shape leaped from the top of the tower and began to flap large wings trying to flee the assault when Tanith joined the battle hitting the shape with multiple balls of silver energy, one right after the other. The shape faltered in midair and tried to right itself, failing as it started to fall under the onslaught of Tanith's attack. The shape screamed in agony as it was obliterated by her energy balls. Tanith turned back to Aaron and added her power to his attack on the tower. The combined power of the two overcame whatever energy was trying to fight back and the blackness began to dim, finally fading away as the tower exploded in a shower of obsidian shards. Tanith shifted her attack to defense and constructed a shield dome of Eldritch over their heads, as the shards began to rain down on them. The shards disintegrated as they hit the shield, until the rain of obsidian subsided. The tower was no more. Aaron performed the same task with every building until nothing was left of the evil that once inhabited the vale. Tanith added her own power and blades of grass and shoots of wild flowers began to sprout up where the structures once stood until no trace of the structures remained. She then swung her hands from side to side as a rush of fresh wind whipped through the vale cleansing it of all stench of evil. Aaron smiled and kissed her again. "Now, that was simply amazing," Aaron chuckled, eyes sparkling as several trees began to grow right before his eyes. "You will have to teach me that." "It is elf magic, the magic of the woods," Tanith replied. "I can use all forms of Eldritch, and I suspect that you can too." She showed him how to tap into the flow of Eldritch and use it to cause the plants to grow and flower. After several attempts he actually caused a rose bush to grow and bloom with silver roses. "Now that Devlin has been dealt with, what are our plans?" Tanith asked. "Well, the Black Hand still needs an accounting," Aaron mused. "And I want to finish the move to Malkur. Laura needs to be reunited with her father, and Anastasia needs to be set up. Also, I may intercede on Duke Gunter's behalf. I think that is just about everything." "Really? Nothing more?" Tanith asked with a little glint in her eye as the corners of her mouth turned up. "We are bonded, remember?" "Ha, I should know by now not to try and keep secrets," Aaron chuckled. "What would you say to a little trip to Tarra?" "I would say, 'Hello little trip'," Tantih laughed. "Now that sounds like fun." "You have a warped sense of fun, beloved," Aaron smiled back. "Interesting for sure. I think it is time to shake things up a bit." Aaron reached out and grasped Tanith's hand and had Black Rose apportate them back to Aithen. ------- Epilogue "Thus ends the story of the 'Thief of Shadows'!" the Bard exclaimed. He then exhaled, stood up and stretched his tight muscles. "Before anyone gets too riled up, this is just the end of that particular chapter in Aaron's saga. There will be more; it just seemed like the proper place to put this particular story to bed." Cheers of "Well done!", "Excellent story!" and "Fantastic tale" echoed through the crowd, as the Bard bowed low and after picking up his harp bag left the front of the common room for a table that Master James Burtson, the innkeeper, had kept reserved for him. Setting the bag down the Bard smiled at the crowd and thanked them again for their kind words, before stretching again and finally sitting down and stretching out his legs. Master James came over with a jug of the aged scotch and two glasses and set them on the table. The Bard waved him to the empty chair and Master James sat down and poured two fingers worth of the amber liquid into each glass and pushed one glass toward the Bard. The Bard picked up the glass and held it in salute and downed the liquid and set the glass back down on the table. He thanked the innkeeper for the drink and leaned back and watched the crowd begin to thin out. Well wishers continued to stop by and touch his shoulder or back in acknowledgement before they went upon their way. Several stopped to personally thank him for a great story. "Master Bard, my name is Steven and I am from Langfordshire," one patron stopped to thank him. "Your stories are well presented. Thank you." "Yes, the best that I have heard in some time," another patron agreed. "I was just traveling through and stopped at the inn for the evening, that was three days ago. My name is Ralph Neu, from Zeeland and I will be making a stop back through specifically to hear your next tale." "Good Bard, my name is Dwight and I just wanted to let you know how much I enjoyed your story," another patron remarked. "I am a Walker from the next town." "Even our cook liked the story, especially the Wyrm," the innkeeper remarked. "Our cook wanted to know if it was a cousin to the dragon?" The inn had done a brisk business, having gone through the extra supplies brought in for the story telling. The tale had been told over three nights and in that time the inn had brought in more coin than would normally be expected for a month. Master James hoped the Bard kept at it and smiled expressing his thanks. "Do you have a timeframe for your next story?" Master James asked gently, pouring another two fingers worth in each glass. "No, I am really not sure which direction to take," the Bard sighed picking up the glass and sipping the contents this time. "What do you mean?" Master James asked. "I thought you would just continue on. If that is not the case then I will ask the questions the patrons did not. What about Prince Velen? Does Aaron finish his revenge on the Black Hand? Do Lady Laura and Duke Gunter marry? You have again left more questions than answers, not to mention the whole Dunkin Brandson and Kalaban saga." "Is that not the way of storytelling?" the Bard asked, a small smile on his face. "Keep your audience wanting more; bring them back anxious for another story?" "Well yes, I suppose so," the innkeeper replied scratching his chin. "That is if there is more. Is there?" "Oh yes, never fear," the Bard chuckled. "No, that is not it at all. I am just not sure if I should finish the saga of Aaron Whiterune, Prince of the Rose, or go in another direction and revisit Aaron at a later date." "Well, if you were to ask the patrons, I know what they would say," Master James smiled. "They would want you to finish Aaron's story before starting a whole new saga. I would want that too." "Yes, I suppose so," the Bard sighed again and finished his drink and sat the glass down. "I just have ideas that want to get out. There is a story about how the Runeswords were created that I would like to tell." "Well, tell it," the innkeeper replied. "Look, Milord, it is certainly not my place to tell you your business, and the inn wins either way. But it seems to me that you have the audience right where you want them; clamoring for more. Give the audience what it wants. That is what I say." "Alright, that is what I will do," the Bard replied, making his decision. "I will take a few days off to collect myself and refresh after this story. I will be in touch when I am ready to present the next story." The Bard finished his drink and stood, patting the innkeeper on the shoulder and then reached down and grabbed his harp bag. Slinging the bag over his shoulder he headed out of the inn and breathed in the fresh night air of the Highlands. He noticed a well-dressed man standing on the porch waiting for him. His clothing, armor and weaponry marked him as a professional soldier, possibly a knight. "Good evening, Master Bard," the man called in greeting. "My name is Sir Kenneth Edeter, a knight of the Earl of Huntly. Your story was fantastic and I wanted to pass on an invitation to Auchindoun castle. His Grace, Lord Gordon, will surely want to meet you." "I thank you for the kind words and the invitation," the Bard nodded. "But, I make it a habit to stay out of politics." "Perhaps, some other time?" Sir Kenneth asked. "Perhaps, good evening Sir knight," the Bard stepped off of the porch and started down the street. "Timekeeper, it is time to go home," Reg sighed. "My Lord, this is as good of a home or time as any," his sword remarked. "She would like it here as well." "Perhaps, but it is something that would have to be discussed in person," Reg replied. "Take me to her, Timekeeper." "As you command, My Lord," Timekeeper replied as an opening in the Fabric of Time appeared. Reginald Ravensblade stepped through the doorway and the opening closed behind him. ------- The End ------- Posted: 2011-06-27 Last Modified: 2012-03-31 / 08:22:29 am ------- http://storiesonline.net/ -------