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L'Aurel's Journal (A Kingdom of Ashes) -updated 3/23
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<blockquote data-quote="Laurel" data-source="post: 1894950" data-attributes="member: 17067"><p><strong>Chapter 4- “A Debt Repaid”</strong></p><p></p><p><em><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'"><span style="font-size: 12px">Day Sixteen- Link’s Tree</span></span></em></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">I awake in a small corner nook and look to Link’s calm face. A strange image of a young Link with two eyes come to mind making my lips curve in a wistful smile… then almost laughing, “He reminds me of Archonus… slightly.” Reverently I pick him up taking him down the many steps circling the great tree trunk.</span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">The survivors of Oceanus huddle quietly around to witness this event though even now they do not know what history they stand witness to. I walk the recently worn grass to the pile of twigs and logs piled high and place Link Woodshadow upon it. This close the smell of oil reaches me, the little freckly-faced man said he could find enough. Whatever Farathier said to him must have done it for he came through. <em>Good- The wood is dry and the oil clean. Yes, the spark will set quickly.</em> I lay my hand against Link’s chest once more saying good-bye to a legend, an ancestor, and a stranger. The Duke starts to speak. </span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">His baritone voice commanding but reverent, and the crowd hangs on his every word. I slowly step back from the pyre and watch a few errant rays of light pierce the shelter above. Link’s face catches one ray fully and I surprise myself with the tug of a smile. I softly mutter, “See it’s not all that bad. At least I finally got to see you in the full blaze of light.” I take my short bow and single arrow from Farathier and move off to stand by the only torch still lit in the waking eve of morning.</span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">The deep baritone rises, “He is Link Woodshadow!” The duke seems to play the crowd well. The Duke’s voice drops holding them enthralled to hear what more he can tell them. With this captivation he gives them the heroes final words of forgiveness. My pledge now partially fulfilled.</span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">Before the Duke’s voice finishes ringing through the glade, I hear Justice’s proud voice counter his deeper tones as she starts her eulogy. Her voice shows that same strength of command as the Duke’s. He learned to cultivate it by ordering servants, while she learned it commanding fledgling warriors. The Duke knew his people, and knew they needed the words of an Apectin over the pyre. She had at least seen him twice, she had watched him die, and she was the only Apectin around. He had been right to suggest her.</span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">Lost in my own world though I do not hear the specific words she speaks. As the rays brighten on the Woodshadow’s wrinkled face, I see the scars and lines left from his millennia long life. I see what life gave him and what it took away while always keeping its natural balance of existence. I slowly notice that all is silent around me; I must have missed my queue. Without looking around, I slowly raise the arrow tip and place it along side the burning torch. The oil soaked rag quickly ignites. I aim for the center of the pile, and shoot. I had no words to give, but at least I was allowed to do this much.</span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">As the sun gets brighter so rise the flames as if to compete and I know when the sun sets the flames will have died to smoldering embers and ash. I remain standing there for hours holding my now empty bow at my side, just staring at the flames. Occasionally the wind changes and my eyes burn from smoke, but the silent tears running down my face wash it away. I feel more then see how quickly the crowd dissipates. When the fire looses its mad rage silently I utter, “Good-bye, respected elder.”</span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"> Thinking back to the decision I made last night, I go in search of Farathier. I find him and Yoshi near the great base of Link’s tree playing some sort of game. Yoshi stops midway through a tail swipe and sniffs the air. He turns his jade and ebony body and bounds towards me. As he skids to a halt and sniffs the top of my head some more, I look to Farathier slowly striding over. Taking a deep breath I start, “Farathier, I know you do not have the horses you love around you now, and due to me you are without even the chestnut you had. Know that I do not begrudge any bond you and Yoshi form, and in fact I encourage it.” With a smile I push against the heavy blockhead, “Though I think there is already one forming.” Farathier still standing a few feet away simply looks at me then at Yoshi as if trying to gauge what I am about. I push forward, “I will continue to look in on him, but I leave his training solely to you now…. If you wish?” He still has not moved a muscle. Farathier finally holds out his hand, “I would be honored to train such a creature.” I lightly let my hand rest in his. I smile thinking, one down! </span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">We both turn as a light trumpet call and hoof beats are heard from the roadway. The refugees are thrown into chaos again with fear of the unknown, and the memory of the last horn blast they heard. But it is a human rider on a very stately but very normal warhorse that gallops into view. A scant few other rides decked out much the same follow the leader into view. Xath and Arfin stand at the entrance to the grove, as the rider pulls up. Farathier has already ushered Yoshi back into the woods and behind the tree. I see Justice on the opposite side of camp, moving as I do toward the cluster of new arrivals.</span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"> “I have orders from Lord Hywrl. You are to present yourselves at nightfall at the gates of Hwryl,” shouts on of the talons through cupped hands. I hear Xath’s voice ask at his horses nose, “Why?”</span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">“So you may know your fate, and see the king’s might as treasonous people will be brought to justice,” he states smugly as he shifts to look at the entire group. As he moves, his shiny plate mail harshly reflects the morning sun into our eyes.</span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">“Who be th’ Lor’ Howl?” Arfin insists. With pity and a small amount of contempt the man’s dark hazel eyes pierce Arfin, “He is Lord Edriss Kiva, Count of Hywrl, Son of Count Elliar Kiva. Lucky for you all he just arrived from Crisoth.” At the name Justice, Arfin and I pause.</span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">“What have these traitors done and what is to be done to the traitors?” Xath goes back to the more important questions at hand. She had only seen Edriss at the hanging, but even then may not have been told who he was. “They are traitors to the crown, six all told. They will be brought to immediate trial.” He tries to keep his military gaze straight ahead, but his eyes seem drawn to Xath again and again. He then bows to the group in general, and though Xath seems not to notice he is definitely eyeing her with interest. Too many men have I seen look at Justice that way not to know what it means. In a voice meant to only include Xath ears, the guard leans down, “Will you do me the honor of going to lunch with me this afternoon?” Xath’s voice drops to match his, “Let me think on it… how about I meet you back here in a few hours?” With that he waves his small entourage back to Hywrl. As the dust settled, Xath turns cheeks bright red to tell us what had been said at the last. I smile as Xath stalks off, while Justice’s brows furrow in deep in thought. She then calls out to Xath to return, shaking my head I walk over to Yoshi.</span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"> Arfin walks over to Farathier, while the monk jumps down from a tree with surprising grace. “Edriss. I’d lov’ te get h’s blood;” snarls the dwarf. Kareth normally silent grunts his agreement, “You not only one.” The golden talon normally removed from such things, also adds with venom, “Yes, he should die.” I over hear Justice and Xath walking past us now deep in conversation about what Xath will say and do at lunch, while Archonus is nowhere in sight. Edriss was a friend who betrayed us.</span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">I pipe into the group before me, “Well, should we go and greet him as he deserves?” Farathier gets a nasty grin on his face, “Yes, I think we should give him a warm welcome.” With Arfin’s dislike of Link’s tree, we set off for a quiet place to make our plan, knowing we will have to disguise ourselves and tell as few about the plan as possible, just in case it all goes wrong. If something happens it cannot be traced back to these people.</span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"> An hour later Arfin sweeps his wide stubby metal boot across the dirt. As Arfin, Kareth and Farathier go in search of the freckled face one toothed man and the other various supplies we need. Farathier hasn’t mentioned his name, but has been heard calling him Freckles. </span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">I go in search of Yoshi needing to keep him out of the upcoming battle. “Oh, my friend, if life where as easy as it is with you. I know your loyalties just by looking in your eyes and I know your mind just by a simple movement.” I know Yoshi does not understand my words, but it helps to say them aloud. </span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">I hear the muffled crackle of dry leaves behind me. I turn my head to see Archonus standing there, “We must speak.” He moves back a few paces almost testing. Odd that I felt a presence and heard someone, yet didn’t know it was him. It must be about the cobbler, so giving Yoshi one last nudge away I say, “Lead on.” As we enter the main camp area, Archonus masked face looks straight ahead not veering from course at all. Not letting me catch up to him completely, I keep pace with him. Must be something really bad, normally he at least lets us walk with him. He mounts the steps two at a time to the Woodshadow’s tree, with an easy stretch of his lean legs. </span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">Once up he continues striding toward the same room Link had passed away in. It was a good spot, easy to hear people approaching, and no way for someone to hide out. The very reasons I had wanted to see the cobbler here, thinking Archonus one of the few able to sneak in. Gentlemanly he holds the door to let me enter, and as I reach the edge of light from the window hear the door click closed. Knowing Archonus not to be one to talk first, I start to ask what he found out. Before I can utter another word beyond what; however, Archonus with his usual grace and speed uses his hand and deeply swipes my shoulder blade. “AH!” I cry out grabbing my stinging shoulder, turning to face him. As he lunges again, I yell, “What! What are you doing?” I feel the pain increasing where his nails raked –Nails? What has gotten in to him, I know he’s never seen me as more then a little sister type, but…“Archonus?” He does not say anything only continues to snarl, and advances drawing back his hands. The long fingers have fingernails rapidly growing like thin blades. This can’t be him… He opens his mouth; thin forked tongue flicking and shoots acid at my other shoulder. Earlier I had left my pack in the upper rooms, wearing only light clothes and cloak to Link’s funeral. Luckily I hadn’t had a chance to return to those rooms, so I still had my bow. I draw two arrows imbedding them through his raised hands. Then calmly knocking two more I shoot again into his other hand. Becoming more and more sure with every movement it makes that this not my Archonus. A thought flashes into my mind, I must keep it alive to question it and to study it.</span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">In these close quarters he quickly advances, trying to hit me with my own arrows in his bleeding hands. I see his features flicker. With a snarl I stake an arrow into each leg, making sure I slow him down. The flickering solidifies, and I am looking at a mirror of me. Scorn and venom in my voice I almost spit at him “You have lost beast.” The image of me continues forward another stumble, so I fire two more directly into its chest. At such close range it is thrown backward landing in a crumpled heap of legs and outstretched arms. Looking down my harsh features fade to a scaly hide, large round white eyes and lanky body. I knock two more arrows and point them at his reptilian neck, and watch his lifeblood quickly leaking from his body. </span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"> The door bangs open to admit two figures, one short and round and the other tall. As the door swings back from being thrown open so violently, Arfin’s voice comes through, “I’ll kill ye if ye’ve harmed…” </span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">“Who are you?” I yell pointing my bow at Archonus’ figure. They could be anyone, and anywhere. Knowing what I felt the past few days I know with certainty there is more then just the one at my feet. They know I can sense them, so I am now a threat- a target. It is always alone and in shadows. Both Arfin and Archonus see the dying reptilian creature at my feet, and stare at me in confusion. “Who are you?” I yell again at the figure of my friend. </span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">At the same moment Arfin, pleads, “He is Archon;” the other states, “I am Archonus.” He removes his red cloth mask thinking his blue birthmark will satisfy my curiosity. I relax the tension on my bow, dropping it to point again at the slowly dying snake creature. The mark can easily be made and mimicked, but the movement itself is Archonus’ alone. No, this is the true Archonus. </span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">Adrenaline still pumping through my veins I try to explain, “He is the one from earlier, the cobbler, or just one of his kind. He pretended to be- He attacked me as soon as we got here.” </span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">Blonde hair billowing, Justice runs into the room and upon seeing the fallen creature places her body between my arrow and his throat; her hands splayed on the creature’s upper chest. His bleeding stops, and his eyes slowly open to slits. I move around Justice pushing the arrow tip further into his neck as it tries to lift it’s head, with cold venom I order, “Do not move.” </span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">Though she looks at me unhappily that I will not budge, her voice harshly orders, “Archon, interrogate him.” For her own reason’s Justice has taken some vow as penance for helping to kill her sister-in-arms in Oceanus. Arfin tries to interrogate it, but I know it will be to no avail. “There are others out there,” I look at Archonus and can see the hate mirrored in his eyes. Whatever the cause for the hate, I will trust him to take care of things here. I turn and quickly leave the room. I hear Arfin clanking at my back, but do not stop as I bound down the steps to the forest floor. I go from group to group, tent to tent stalking my prey. Looking, studying, but with frustration see nothing, there is still too much I don’t know about them. I feel no tingles or stirs of something wrong.</span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">“We know they are 'ere now. We can watch ‘em,” Arfin says to try and dispel my continued search. Michael taught me long ago the best way to hunt pry is to watch and learn. They always make a mistake eventually, and sometimes that can be turned to a better purpose.</span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">As we head back toward Link’s tree, a body falls from the branches above. Archonus stands in the window above, but not trusting my eyes we run to the prone broken body. The bald emerald scales on the head tell me all I need to know. It is the lizard man, twisted to odd angles. There is a small nicely worked handle protruding from its chest. Arfin quickly grabs out the handle, Archonus’ small sword, and puts it on his belt. Farathier comes running over with Yoshi lopping by his side. Looking to Farathier I pose, “We can not let the villagers see him; they have suffered enough. Can Yoshi… Eat him?” </span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">Farathier smiles rakishly and mimics to Yoshi a motion of swallowing whole. Yoshi leans over and makes quick work of the body. Though there is a crowd approaching, they only see the three of us surrounding the large T-rex still chomping on his latest meal. I swallow a few times looking at Farathier in question. Then my eyes stray upward to Yoshi’s mouth, and there I see a stray bone protrudes with some scales and muscle still attached. A grim faced Justice and masked Archonus approach hurriedly.</span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">Using our bodies and cloaks Arfin hands the bloodied short sword to Archonus; so even with close looks the villagers would only see a very satiated look in Yoshi’s eyes. As our group disperses trying to appear as nothing happened, I look to Archonus. Shivering as the adrenaline runs off and the cold and pain finally registers. I turn away, slowly walking into the woods to search for some basic healing herbs. On the trek I ask myself, what if I did not recognize the creature in time, would I have been able to kill him before he killed me. What if it had taken the form of another of them? Would survival or love and friendship win out? I can only hope I never have to choose.</span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"> In just under two hours everything is set on the roadway for greeting Edriss. Arfin let us know that last he heard Justice, Archonus, and Xath were going to try and get information from the talon herald, Korianne. We figured it was best they not know of this little plan. Xath has no qualms with Edriss, and Justice would never let us even attempt it with her new oath. It is better that we leave Archonus to protect them.</span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"> Once everything is set we again look to each other, there are doubt each to their own, some about skill, some about tactic, some about the person, but we know we can’t let this by go by. If we can stop him before he gets into town. For once being proactive in our fates rather then simply reacting.</span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">Near sunset, we hear approaching horses slowly walking from the North roadway. “Lets go,” Farathier commands. Kareth climbs to the second tier of branches; then Farathier and I pass a dark aged wooden barrel up. We then move as silently as possible to our opposing sides of the narrow roadway. Three arrows made especially for this task lay in wait for us. A small pile of steel drake powder and sharp stones lay beneath the arrow shafts. Arfin was hidden a short time ago by a boulder and some tree branches further North, and he may even now be spying them passing. As soon as the battle is on Arfin should be able to cover their retreat. </span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"> The hoof beats get increasingly louder. With aching slowness two horses come into sight flanked in front by two large dark skinned orc guards up front. The carriage is ornately painted in gold trim, so it seems along with coin, weapons, and land Edriss has gained other fine luxuries. The guards are obviously more then simply intimidating ornaments, for with prowling movements and weapons at the ready it is easy to see they know how to fight. They exchange black glances over the horses’ heads every few moments. </span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">The coach has its pristine purple curtains drawn and even as it hits a stone only blackness can be seen inside. The small stately carriage is followed by two more orcs. Our dear friend Edriss must be inside, probably counting coins or sharpening his little dagger. A gold-jeweled dagger, perhaps one his friend Tain gave him. Dear Edriss who ran off and joined the king knowing of his evil deeds. This was Edriss who we accepted and Edriss who let innocents die. It was Edriss who wanted coin and jewels more then a heart or friends. Yes, it was time to say a final hello to dear Edriss. </span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"> Almost there… just a few more feet and then we would have them. A sharp crack* boom* erupts from the lead Orcs side arm. The tree, that moments before held Kareth, is now alight with fire. I see Kareth’s large green form jump swiftly to the ground about thirty paces away from me. He starts to head past me attempting to beat the fire out of his cloak and to safety. I raise my bow and fire the first arrow with a flaming head. Fire and coins fly out and imbed themselves on the orcs sides. Another boom is heard directly after mine; it seems Farathier had the same idea as another of our hidden barrels explodes. Arfin is heard shouting a challenge as he charges from his place of cover. Farathier and I quickly hit the two barrels at the rear of the now stopped carriage, which fling more copper and pointed splinters at the two guards in back. I shoot the front orc again with arrows in rapid session, but he keeps charging. There is no way for retreat now. Arfin finally reaches the two back orcs taking them on by himself. I can still hear Kareth to my left. Wondering why isn’t running to meet the charging orc as he normally would, I turn to look that way seeing a shadowy shape darting from nothing and stabbing Kareth deep in the leg. Kareth seems to be unable to hit it solidly and seems to be blindly swiping at it. </span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">I quickly turn and shoot the guard charging Kareth’s position; at least I can slow him down. As the Orc finally reaches Kareth he find a half-orc bloodied from several slashes, burned and a lost dazed look entering his eyes. The shadow disappears completely; at the same time I sense something behind me and feel cold metal pierce my side. As I swing to face it, I suddenly see Edriss’s cold face in front of me. “Miss me?” he says with a smiling smirk. What could turn his heart so cold and black? I raise my bow and fire as quickly as I can, but he keeps swiping at me and shifting around jumping from shadow to shadow. I feel the wounds from his blade cutting deeper, and deeper. I can’t dodge, nor fire, nor move fast enough to hit him and know that I am weakening too fast. </span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">Much too fast… figures he would stoop to use poison to slow an enemy down. Can’t face them on equal terms. The poison from his blade seeps into the deep wounds and through my system forcing me to concentrate. I finally register that I have heard four grunts, so I hit him at least that many times. Hoping I may have succeeded more.</span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">So intent on the shadow dancer in front of me I do not see the orc come from behind who swipes at my bow. With emptiness the string goes lax and I am left with two arrows in one hand and my now useless bow handle in the other. I let the bow fall from my grip while turning with more agility then I feel. With one move, I raise my right arm high, flip the arrow point around, and with a yell of rage plunge the arrows in my tightly fisted hand down into the chest plate of the orc. I hear with satisfaction his yell of pain, as they hit a gap in his shoulder plating. I pull the arrows back out again and plunge it again into his other side. Then knowing I don’t have much time blindly sink them into whatever skin I see exposed. </span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">My hands are soon slick with blood, but I do best if I focus on the solid arrow shafts in my hands and the green of his skin. If I use my energy to focus there, I can ignore that he is also drawing my blood luckily much slower then Edriss was able to. I can no longer feel the other wounds or the ones he is still inflicting on my weakening body. </span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">I suddenly see movement behind him, and with relief hear Archonus’ shout as he charges in. Drawing the orc’s attention, he turns his black head to the new foe laying his neck exposed to me. Using the opening, I spring to his back plunging the arrowheads down. At the same instant, Archonus drives both his swords into the Orcs leg and stomach with his long and short sword respectively. Archonus quickly shifts his feet and plunges them again as the orc stops fighting and his arms drop to his sides. As the orc starts to topple to the ground I hold tight to my now deep red arrows, letting them slowly slide out from his neck once more. Archonus and I look quickly at each other, and I smile. Just one more for him saving me, I guess. We hear a crashing to our left and turn to see two Orcs coming toward us. </span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"> I know I will not last long, but I will go down fighting. I will not give Edriss the pleasure; so facing them I mutter coldly, “Come on!” I raise the arrows still clutched in my now blood soaked arm spreading my legs to pounce. Archonus says, “Here.” I reach out, catching Longarm, his longbow, from the air. Without thinking I knock the two bloodied arrows and let them fly at the fast charging orcs no pause to my movements. I quickly move to keep shooting, my quiver far from empty. Archonus seems okay to let me deal as much damage as I can before he attacks. Soon they are on top of us, and I am back to my ploys of retreat and feigning. </span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">They luckily were already wounded from Arfin or the others, and go down fairly quickly. I hear Justice yelling to someone, and the return cry of her beast. I feel the slight stirring of the wind and look up to see Xath galloping away on the remaining horse as Justice lifts off with Thane. They must be after Edriss. They will need help once they catch up to him, but I only go one step before almost falling over. Seeing Archonus go toward Arfin’s position, I resolutely shake my head and move toward the first of the fallen Orcs that were of Edriss’ guard. </span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"> Suddenly a black smoke fills my eyes. The pain, something is burning them. The tree… the ground is so dry being past the rains and before the snowfall. I finally reach the first fallen guard and pick up his fallen Kega’rin, but as I lay my hands on it I am overcome with a sense of dirtiness. I can feel the power, evil power. It’s oily handle crying out to me for blood, destruction, and murder. It would be so easy to give in. No, I am in control and have no thirst for warm blood like this, though I feel repulsed and hate toward this very item it will serve my needs for now</span><span style="color: #993300"><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">.</span></span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"> As I reach down grabbing the shoulder of one guard a great crack sounds the beginning of the end for the old tree as it splits under the weight of flames and death. Kareth! How could I forget? I lost sight of him- there! A huge branch was falling to the place where he last lay. Ignoring the pain shooting through my body, I hold the cloak over my mouth and blindly run for where I saw him fall. He was not moving, but he must still live. He must! </span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"> The shadowy figures of a six-foot man holding and supporting a much larger figure can be seen through the gray smoke. I stumble toward them as I hear Farathier’s choking voice, “Help me, he weighs more than a horse!” I quickly push my shoulder under Kareth’s much broader one. The monk seems to be mumbling, “I no feel good…Bad hurt…” He must have taken more of the poison into his blood then I did. Between coughs I say trying to be optimistic, “You’ll be fine my friend, just a little sickness.” His features are normally a light greenish tint, but now they seem to be a pale sickly gray. The monk seems to be making a valiant attempt to walk, and eventually with all three of us stumbling and supporting each other, we eventually clear the acrid smoke and collapse on a small pile of untouched leaves. As I struggle to sit up I feel the setting sun finally take all her light from us, as the orange light of the fire grows stronger.</span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"> “We are fine.” I tell Archonus and Arfin as they rush toward us. “The bodies…” There is no need to waste air though, as Archonus and Arfin are already steering toward the Edriss’s guards. They have piled all four dead bodies on a small cart and started to push it away as the fire crackles and catches more kindling to flame. I struggle to a kneeling position draw from the land and air and ask for water to quench the flames of this fire. A small trail of water appears and dampens the surrounding ground and outer branches of the flame. The large tree center is now the only part burning, but it could still spread at any moment. Suddenly there is more water from some else’s magic and the flames sizzle out. Thane’s wings stirs the smoke and ash as he sets down near Arfin and Archonus, while Xath rides through the smoke and back into view.</span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"> I look to Farathier and at his nod we both start to pull Kareth toward the cart and the others. By the time we drag ourselves to the refugee camp, the people are heading for Hywrl. Xath stops one of the few remaining townsfolk, and asks about the Duke. Unfortunately we find he was taken to Hywrl earlier that day. This is not a good sign. “We must get there quickly!” Xath rushes off, so keeping Kareth in the cart Farathier and I drag him to Hywrl. </span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"> The gates that were impenetrable just a few short days ago now stand parted and open to all. There is a sparse city with one large keep at the center. People can be seen everywhere as they crowd and push their way to the platform and the keep. “I will stay and look after the monk.” Farathier volunteers. Justice with barely a glance back replies, “Fine. Watch over him. We will meet you here later, and no more plans like that last stunt.” With that she heads off. “We did what we felt we needed to,” Arfin’s heated response fading into the dim of chaos around us. Xath tugs my arm looking at the others not exactly approvingly either, “Let’s catch up to her.” </span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"> As we get closer to the palace we see a healthy dark elf, Count Edriss, on a low balcony speaking to the crowd about traitors or some such. We also spy the Duke, Korienne, Irellion Greyclaw and a few other guards on the same platform. “There’s the Duke,” Xath points excitedly. Then her smile fades to a confused look, “but he look far from displeased or forced to be up there.” Justice trying to sound optimistic, “Maybe it is not as we feared or we heard incorrectly.” </span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"> There are two other balconies higher up, but as we edge closer only the top one holds anything. It has seven prisoners all hooded. At Edriss’ signal, the executioner pulls the hood from one. We see the face of Randal, one of the bluemages Archonus helped to free in Oceanus. “These traitors to the crown will be put to death for their crimes.” “No!” Shouts Xath gaining a few startled looks and Edriss face swivels to look at us. She adds quieter to us, “These innocents can not die in our place.” One stood with neck in noose for each of us. Six prisoners ready to dangle about our height and gender, though an extra short one for Xath as a dwarf. It seems they do not know everything. </span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">Edriss looking entirely too pleased shouts at us, “Arfin Kegsplitter, is it you? Good friend come and take your place with me on this great day.” Arfin gives us a pained look, “Maybe I can do some good there.” We can only watch helplessly as he goes inside, but as he disappears inside the doors Xath hurriedly whispers from the side of her mouth plans, plans that may work. With everyone eyes shifting to Edriss greeting Arfin, I hide Xath behind my cloak and go toward a secluded wall. Eerily, she changes her form to that of the perfect likeness of Edriss Kiva. As I lower my cape I look into her eyes, “Are you ready?” </span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">“There is no other way,” she concedes with a deep sigh. As I move aside to let her return to where Justice and Archonus are waiting I put my hand on her shoulder and closing my eyes whispering, “Mark my friend true for my eyes.” She turns a small smile at me, knowing if I have to spy the mark the entire plan is doomed anyways. She then walks to Justice’s side. Justice who can help her with magic and truth, and Archonus who says that he can help with any pain or wounds she may get. </span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"> I can do nothing for the prisoners or my friends from down here, but looking up to the roof I know that is where I should be. I’d have the best view and best advantages there. I maneuver my way back through the crowd till I reach the back entrance of the palace. There seems to be less activity here in the serene gardens of a long forgotten temple, as most seem intent on the hanging and spectacle in front. I take out my grappling hook and rope and use that to gain purchase to the second level back balcony. As I top the rail I see no guards and so quickly move to go up another level. </span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">The prisoners were on the third level, so there I must go. As I top the second rail, I take the hook with me. I hear some footsteps and try to hide in the small amount of shadows by the wall. A guard saunters out, barely glancing around. Whistling a bar tune I hear from Selura, he goes to the edge and peers down. I automatically feel disgust at the lack of security Edriss seems to have put up, the guard is a lack wit for with how little he looked I could have been hanging from the wall as a dragon and he would not have noticed. </span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"> I edge forward not lifting my feet from the ground. Once he is within reach I try to use the rope and grappling hook to silence him before he can yell for help. Unfortunately he used that moment to pick his teeth clean, so I get his arm between his neck and the rope. With ridiculous easy he pries the rope away and turns to face me. I grab some herbs from my belt and throw it at his eyes. He screams as his eyes smolder and his vision blackens. I quickly retreat inside the closest doorway as he waves blindly punching and grabbing air. I use this to gain entrance inside, but his shouts have attracted a party of guards. </span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"> As I run into the hallway, I face two guards. This is not working as planned, and when I feel the edge of a blade at my back know there is no way out now. “Put your hands up and stand as you are,” issues the command from behind me. “Go check on him. Take her weapons.” I hear armor plating grate as two guards run to the balcony and their bellowing comrade. The other two start to search me for other weapons; I take note of each item they find. </span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">The guard in command pushes his foot into my lower back, forcing me into the waiting hold of another guard. As the guard in front holds my arms tightly his commander makes easy work of binding my hands. I am held there as the commander goes to look at the now blinded guard. As they lead him into the hallway I see they have placed a bandage across his eyes. The commander takes the extra rope from my bound hands in his hand and giving it a sharp tug orders me to walk.</span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'">As we start down the stair small arrow slits in the wall let me hear shouts, “The impostor is dead!” “Edriss killed him!” “It wasn’t a fair fight.” “Long live our new Count!” As I slow to try and hear more I am pulled forward again.</span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"> We have only gone down one flight of stairs when I hear, “Sir!” They snap to attention as Edriss’ form appears on the stairs. At the guard’s words, the chiseled aristocratic body of Edriss straightens. His clothes have seen some wear, but he seems to let a curtain of authority fall over his whole body. </span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"> I cannot help but smile knowingly at the Edriss standing before me though, for he bears my mark on his shoulder. This Edriss is really Xath, so she won that battle at least. “Release her.” Xath commands. “But- But, my lord, she was trying to take the palace, and she blinded one of the men.” The commander is now singing a cowering tune. </span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"> I look at the guard pointing with my bound hands at Edriss, “I am here to protect that one, so I felt it necessary to see to the current state of things. As for the guard, wash his eyes out with some water and he will be fine.” Xath troubled by more pressing things then getting me out of a scrape turns to continue up the stairs and impatiently motions me to follow her. The guard slits one of the ropes, and pulling my hands away quickly shed the rope cord. Hastily grabbing the few weapons they found on me, I move to the huge drapery housing the royal balcony. </span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"> The curtain sweeps aside by two bowing servants as we approach and I have to raise my hand at the sudden blinding sunlight. Xath dismisses the other guards and drawing the Duke to one corner asks, “What do we do now?” “Let me handle this,” the Duke reassures us a sly devious smile in place. Thus he proceeds to introduce Xath as the true Edriss as the light has shown, and the traitor defeated. The wrongs of those to be executed were based on falsehoods, and should be released. I am starting to become weary of his ability to play a crowd.</span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"> Looking over the crowd I see the old priest from Oceanus, Dorn, walking beside Farathier as he pushes Kareth along. Justice’s stand by a corner looking up at us her expression unreadable from this distance. Archonus’ huddled form allows Arfin to pass him some bottles of medicine. Whatever he did worked. As the Duke concludes his speech, I push back to the wall. The others will be up shortly, and we have to get a healer for Kareth.</span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-family: 'Verdana'"> Not trusting even death, that night we make plans over Edriss’ body. Plans where ‘Edriss’ dies in the night from wounds taken during the day. Plans to gain legitimate leadership here, and plans to get back Oceanus. We go in circles, but there seems to be only one answer. The lies and the truth, it is all getting distorted now, and buries us further in them. Someday maybe I can go back to a simpler life… one with no secrets needing to be kept or lies to be told. We leave with a plan in place, as best we could make and mostly at the Duke’s ideas and urging. Justice tells us, “Go and rest now we have a long day tomorrow. I will watch the body till the morning.” We file out somberly. Though spying Archonus and Farathiers retreating forms I know Justice may think she will watch alone, but it will actually be a group vigil.</span></p></blockquote><p></p>
[QUOTE="Laurel, post: 1894950, member: 17067"] [b]Chapter 4- “A Debt Repaid”[/b] [i][font=Times New Roman][size=3]Day Sixteen- Link’s Tree[/size][/font][/i] [font=Verdana]I awake in a small corner nook and look to Link’s calm face. A strange image of a young Link with two eyes come to mind making my lips curve in a wistful smile… then almost laughing, “He reminds me of Archonus… slightly.” Reverently I pick him up taking him down the many steps circling the great tree trunk.[/font] [font=Verdana]The survivors of Oceanus huddle quietly around to witness this event though even now they do not know what history they stand witness to. I walk the recently worn grass to the pile of twigs and logs piled high and place Link Woodshadow upon it. This close the smell of oil reaches me, the little freckly-faced man said he could find enough. Whatever Farathier said to him must have done it for he came through. [i]Good- The wood is dry and the oil clean. Yes, the spark will set quickly.[/i] I lay my hand against Link’s chest once more saying good-bye to a legend, an ancestor, and a stranger. The Duke starts to speak. [/font] [font=Verdana]His baritone voice commanding but reverent, and the crowd hangs on his every word. I slowly step back from the pyre and watch a few errant rays of light pierce the shelter above. Link’s face catches one ray fully and I surprise myself with the tug of a smile. I softly mutter, “See it’s not all that bad. At least I finally got to see you in the full blaze of light.” I take my short bow and single arrow from Farathier and move off to stand by the only torch still lit in the waking eve of morning.[/font] [font=Verdana]The deep baritone rises, “He is Link Woodshadow!” The duke seems to play the crowd well. The Duke’s voice drops holding them enthralled to hear what more he can tell them. With this captivation he gives them the heroes final words of forgiveness. My pledge now partially fulfilled.[/font] [font=Verdana]Before the Duke’s voice finishes ringing through the glade, I hear Justice’s proud voice counter his deeper tones as she starts her eulogy. Her voice shows that same strength of command as the Duke’s. He learned to cultivate it by ordering servants, while she learned it commanding fledgling warriors. The Duke knew his people, and knew they needed the words of an Apectin over the pyre. She had at least seen him twice, she had watched him die, and she was the only Apectin around. He had been right to suggest her.[/font] [font=Verdana]Lost in my own world though I do not hear the specific words she speaks. As the rays brighten on the Woodshadow’s wrinkled face, I see the scars and lines left from his millennia long life. I see what life gave him and what it took away while always keeping its natural balance of existence. I slowly notice that all is silent around me; I must have missed my queue. Without looking around, I slowly raise the arrow tip and place it along side the burning torch. The oil soaked rag quickly ignites. I aim for the center of the pile, and shoot. I had no words to give, but at least I was allowed to do this much.[/font] [font=Verdana]As the sun gets brighter so rise the flames as if to compete and I know when the sun sets the flames will have died to smoldering embers and ash. I remain standing there for hours holding my now empty bow at my side, just staring at the flames. Occasionally the wind changes and my eyes burn from smoke, but the silent tears running down my face wash it away. I feel more then see how quickly the crowd dissipates. When the fire looses its mad rage silently I utter, “Good-bye, respected elder.”[/font] [font=Verdana] Thinking back to the decision I made last night, I go in search of Farathier. I find him and Yoshi near the great base of Link’s tree playing some sort of game. Yoshi stops midway through a tail swipe and sniffs the air. He turns his jade and ebony body and bounds towards me. As he skids to a halt and sniffs the top of my head some more, I look to Farathier slowly striding over. Taking a deep breath I start, “Farathier, I know you do not have the horses you love around you now, and due to me you are without even the chestnut you had. Know that I do not begrudge any bond you and Yoshi form, and in fact I encourage it.” With a smile I push against the heavy blockhead, “Though I think there is already one forming.” Farathier still standing a few feet away simply looks at me then at Yoshi as if trying to gauge what I am about. I push forward, “I will continue to look in on him, but I leave his training solely to you now…. If you wish?” He still has not moved a muscle. Farathier finally holds out his hand, “I would be honored to train such a creature.” I lightly let my hand rest in his. I smile thinking, one down! [/font] [font=Verdana]We both turn as a light trumpet call and hoof beats are heard from the roadway. The refugees are thrown into chaos again with fear of the unknown, and the memory of the last horn blast they heard. But it is a human rider on a very stately but very normal warhorse that gallops into view. A scant few other rides decked out much the same follow the leader into view. Xath and Arfin stand at the entrance to the grove, as the rider pulls up. Farathier has already ushered Yoshi back into the woods and behind the tree. I see Justice on the opposite side of camp, moving as I do toward the cluster of new arrivals.[/font] [font=Verdana] “I have orders from Lord Hywrl. You are to present yourselves at nightfall at the gates of Hwryl,” shouts on of the talons through cupped hands. I hear Xath’s voice ask at his horses nose, “Why?”[/font] [font=Verdana]“So you may know your fate, and see the king’s might as treasonous people will be brought to justice,” he states smugly as he shifts to look at the entire group. As he moves, his shiny plate mail harshly reflects the morning sun into our eyes.[/font] [font=Verdana]“Who be th’ Lor’ Howl?” Arfin insists. With pity and a small amount of contempt the man’s dark hazel eyes pierce Arfin, “He is Lord Edriss Kiva, Count of Hywrl, Son of Count Elliar Kiva. Lucky for you all he just arrived from Crisoth.” At the name Justice, Arfin and I pause.[/font] [font=Verdana]“What have these traitors done and what is to be done to the traitors?” Xath goes back to the more important questions at hand. She had only seen Edriss at the hanging, but even then may not have been told who he was. “They are traitors to the crown, six all told. They will be brought to immediate trial.” He tries to keep his military gaze straight ahead, but his eyes seem drawn to Xath again and again. He then bows to the group in general, and though Xath seems not to notice he is definitely eyeing her with interest. Too many men have I seen look at Justice that way not to know what it means. In a voice meant to only include Xath ears, the guard leans down, “Will you do me the honor of going to lunch with me this afternoon?” Xath’s voice drops to match his, “Let me think on it… how about I meet you back here in a few hours?” With that he waves his small entourage back to Hywrl. As the dust settled, Xath turns cheeks bright red to tell us what had been said at the last. I smile as Xath stalks off, while Justice’s brows furrow in deep in thought. She then calls out to Xath to return, shaking my head I walk over to Yoshi.[/font] [font=Verdana] Arfin walks over to Farathier, while the monk jumps down from a tree with surprising grace. “Edriss. I’d lov’ te get h’s blood;” snarls the dwarf. Kareth normally silent grunts his agreement, “You not only one.” The golden talon normally removed from such things, also adds with venom, “Yes, he should die.” I over hear Justice and Xath walking past us now deep in conversation about what Xath will say and do at lunch, while Archonus is nowhere in sight. Edriss was a friend who betrayed us.[/font] [font=Verdana]I pipe into the group before me, “Well, should we go and greet him as he deserves?” Farathier gets a nasty grin on his face, “Yes, I think we should give him a warm welcome.” With Arfin’s dislike of Link’s tree, we set off for a quiet place to make our plan, knowing we will have to disguise ourselves and tell as few about the plan as possible, just in case it all goes wrong. If something happens it cannot be traced back to these people.[/font] [font=Verdana] An hour later Arfin sweeps his wide stubby metal boot across the dirt. As Arfin, Kareth and Farathier go in search of the freckled face one toothed man and the other various supplies we need. Farathier hasn’t mentioned his name, but has been heard calling him Freckles. [/font] [font=Verdana]I go in search of Yoshi needing to keep him out of the upcoming battle. “Oh, my friend, if life where as easy as it is with you. I know your loyalties just by looking in your eyes and I know your mind just by a simple movement.” I know Yoshi does not understand my words, but it helps to say them aloud. [/font] [font=Verdana]I hear the muffled crackle of dry leaves behind me. I turn my head to see Archonus standing there, “We must speak.” He moves back a few paces almost testing. Odd that I felt a presence and heard someone, yet didn’t know it was him. It must be about the cobbler, so giving Yoshi one last nudge away I say, “Lead on.” As we enter the main camp area, Archonus masked face looks straight ahead not veering from course at all. Not letting me catch up to him completely, I keep pace with him. Must be something really bad, normally he at least lets us walk with him. He mounts the steps two at a time to the Woodshadow’s tree, with an easy stretch of his lean legs. [/font] [font=Verdana]Once up he continues striding toward the same room Link had passed away in. It was a good spot, easy to hear people approaching, and no way for someone to hide out. The very reasons I had wanted to see the cobbler here, thinking Archonus one of the few able to sneak in. Gentlemanly he holds the door to let me enter, and as I reach the edge of light from the window hear the door click closed. Knowing Archonus not to be one to talk first, I start to ask what he found out. Before I can utter another word beyond what; however, Archonus with his usual grace and speed uses his hand and deeply swipes my shoulder blade. “AH!” I cry out grabbing my stinging shoulder, turning to face him. As he lunges again, I yell, “What! What are you doing?” I feel the pain increasing where his nails raked –Nails? What has gotten in to him, I know he’s never seen me as more then a little sister type, but…“Archonus?” He does not say anything only continues to snarl, and advances drawing back his hands. The long fingers have fingernails rapidly growing like thin blades. This can’t be him… He opens his mouth; thin forked tongue flicking and shoots acid at my other shoulder. Earlier I had left my pack in the upper rooms, wearing only light clothes and cloak to Link’s funeral. Luckily I hadn’t had a chance to return to those rooms, so I still had my bow. I draw two arrows imbedding them through his raised hands. Then calmly knocking two more I shoot again into his other hand. Becoming more and more sure with every movement it makes that this not my Archonus. A thought flashes into my mind, I must keep it alive to question it and to study it.[/font] [font=Verdana]In these close quarters he quickly advances, trying to hit me with my own arrows in his bleeding hands. I see his features flicker. With a snarl I stake an arrow into each leg, making sure I slow him down. The flickering solidifies, and I am looking at a mirror of me. Scorn and venom in my voice I almost spit at him “You have lost beast.” The image of me continues forward another stumble, so I fire two more directly into its chest. At such close range it is thrown backward landing in a crumpled heap of legs and outstretched arms. Looking down my harsh features fade to a scaly hide, large round white eyes and lanky body. I knock two more arrows and point them at his reptilian neck, and watch his lifeblood quickly leaking from his body. [/font] [font=Verdana] The door bangs open to admit two figures, one short and round and the other tall. As the door swings back from being thrown open so violently, Arfin’s voice comes through, “I’ll kill ye if ye’ve harmed…” [/font] [font=Verdana]“Who are you?” I yell pointing my bow at Archonus’ figure. They could be anyone, and anywhere. Knowing what I felt the past few days I know with certainty there is more then just the one at my feet. They know I can sense them, so I am now a threat- a target. It is always alone and in shadows. Both Arfin and Archonus see the dying reptilian creature at my feet, and stare at me in confusion. “Who are you?” I yell again at the figure of my friend. [/font] [font=Verdana]At the same moment Arfin, pleads, “He is Archon;” the other states, “I am Archonus.” He removes his red cloth mask thinking his blue birthmark will satisfy my curiosity. I relax the tension on my bow, dropping it to point again at the slowly dying snake creature. The mark can easily be made and mimicked, but the movement itself is Archonus’ alone. No, this is the true Archonus. [/font] [font=Verdana]Adrenaline still pumping through my veins I try to explain, “He is the one from earlier, the cobbler, or just one of his kind. He pretended to be- He attacked me as soon as we got here.” [/font] [font=Verdana]Blonde hair billowing, Justice runs into the room and upon seeing the fallen creature places her body between my arrow and his throat; her hands splayed on the creature’s upper chest. His bleeding stops, and his eyes slowly open to slits. I move around Justice pushing the arrow tip further into his neck as it tries to lift it’s head, with cold venom I order, “Do not move.” [/font] [font=Verdana]Though she looks at me unhappily that I will not budge, her voice harshly orders, “Archon, interrogate him.” For her own reason’s Justice has taken some vow as penance for helping to kill her sister-in-arms in Oceanus. Arfin tries to interrogate it, but I know it will be to no avail. “There are others out there,” I look at Archonus and can see the hate mirrored in his eyes. Whatever the cause for the hate, I will trust him to take care of things here. I turn and quickly leave the room. I hear Arfin clanking at my back, but do not stop as I bound down the steps to the forest floor. I go from group to group, tent to tent stalking my prey. Looking, studying, but with frustration see nothing, there is still too much I don’t know about them. I feel no tingles or stirs of something wrong.[/font] [font=Verdana]“We know they are 'ere now. We can watch ‘em,” Arfin says to try and dispel my continued search. Michael taught me long ago the best way to hunt pry is to watch and learn. They always make a mistake eventually, and sometimes that can be turned to a better purpose.[/font] [font=Verdana]As we head back toward Link’s tree, a body falls from the branches above. Archonus stands in the window above, but not trusting my eyes we run to the prone broken body. The bald emerald scales on the head tell me all I need to know. It is the lizard man, twisted to odd angles. There is a small nicely worked handle protruding from its chest. Arfin quickly grabs out the handle, Archonus’ small sword, and puts it on his belt. Farathier comes running over with Yoshi lopping by his side. Looking to Farathier I pose, “We can not let the villagers see him; they have suffered enough. Can Yoshi… Eat him?” [/font] [font=Verdana]Farathier smiles rakishly and mimics to Yoshi a motion of swallowing whole. Yoshi leans over and makes quick work of the body. Though there is a crowd approaching, they only see the three of us surrounding the large T-rex still chomping on his latest meal. I swallow a few times looking at Farathier in question. Then my eyes stray upward to Yoshi’s mouth, and there I see a stray bone protrudes with some scales and muscle still attached. A grim faced Justice and masked Archonus approach hurriedly.[/font] [font=Verdana]Using our bodies and cloaks Arfin hands the bloodied short sword to Archonus; so even with close looks the villagers would only see a very satiated look in Yoshi’s eyes. As our group disperses trying to appear as nothing happened, I look to Archonus. Shivering as the adrenaline runs off and the cold and pain finally registers. I turn away, slowly walking into the woods to search for some basic healing herbs. On the trek I ask myself, what if I did not recognize the creature in time, would I have been able to kill him before he killed me. What if it had taken the form of another of them? Would survival or love and friendship win out? I can only hope I never have to choose.[/font] [font=Verdana] In just under two hours everything is set on the roadway for greeting Edriss. Arfin let us know that last he heard Justice, Archonus, and Xath were going to try and get information from the talon herald, Korianne. We figured it was best they not know of this little plan. Xath has no qualms with Edriss, and Justice would never let us even attempt it with her new oath. It is better that we leave Archonus to protect them.[/font] [font=Verdana] Once everything is set we again look to each other, there are doubt each to their own, some about skill, some about tactic, some about the person, but we know we can’t let this by go by. If we can stop him before he gets into town. For once being proactive in our fates rather then simply reacting.[/font] [font=Verdana]Near sunset, we hear approaching horses slowly walking from the North roadway. “Lets go,” Farathier commands. Kareth climbs to the second tier of branches; then Farathier and I pass a dark aged wooden barrel up. We then move as silently as possible to our opposing sides of the narrow roadway. Three arrows made especially for this task lay in wait for us. A small pile of steel drake powder and sharp stones lay beneath the arrow shafts. Arfin was hidden a short time ago by a boulder and some tree branches further North, and he may even now be spying them passing. As soon as the battle is on Arfin should be able to cover their retreat. [/font] [font=Verdana] The hoof beats get increasingly louder. With aching slowness two horses come into sight flanked in front by two large dark skinned orc guards up front. The carriage is ornately painted in gold trim, so it seems along with coin, weapons, and land Edriss has gained other fine luxuries. The guards are obviously more then simply intimidating ornaments, for with prowling movements and weapons at the ready it is easy to see they know how to fight. They exchange black glances over the horses’ heads every few moments. [/font] [font=Verdana]The coach has its pristine purple curtains drawn and even as it hits a stone only blackness can be seen inside. The small stately carriage is followed by two more orcs. Our dear friend Edriss must be inside, probably counting coins or sharpening his little dagger. A gold-jeweled dagger, perhaps one his friend Tain gave him. Dear Edriss who ran off and joined the king knowing of his evil deeds. This was Edriss who we accepted and Edriss who let innocents die. It was Edriss who wanted coin and jewels more then a heart or friends. Yes, it was time to say a final hello to dear Edriss. [/font] [font=Verdana] Almost there… just a few more feet and then we would have them. A sharp crack* boom* erupts from the lead Orcs side arm. The tree, that moments before held Kareth, is now alight with fire. I see Kareth’s large green form jump swiftly to the ground about thirty paces away from me. He starts to head past me attempting to beat the fire out of his cloak and to safety. I raise my bow and fire the first arrow with a flaming head. Fire and coins fly out and imbed themselves on the orcs sides. Another boom is heard directly after mine; it seems Farathier had the same idea as another of our hidden barrels explodes. Arfin is heard shouting a challenge as he charges from his place of cover. Farathier and I quickly hit the two barrels at the rear of the now stopped carriage, which fling more copper and pointed splinters at the two guards in back. I shoot the front orc again with arrows in rapid session, but he keeps charging. There is no way for retreat now. Arfin finally reaches the two back orcs taking them on by himself. I can still hear Kareth to my left. Wondering why isn’t running to meet the charging orc as he normally would, I turn to look that way seeing a shadowy shape darting from nothing and stabbing Kareth deep in the leg. Kareth seems to be unable to hit it solidly and seems to be blindly swiping at it. [/font] [font=Verdana]I quickly turn and shoot the guard charging Kareth’s position; at least I can slow him down. As the Orc finally reaches Kareth he find a half-orc bloodied from several slashes, burned and a lost dazed look entering his eyes. The shadow disappears completely; at the same time I sense something behind me and feel cold metal pierce my side. As I swing to face it, I suddenly see Edriss’s cold face in front of me. “Miss me?” he says with a smiling smirk. What could turn his heart so cold and black? I raise my bow and fire as quickly as I can, but he keeps swiping at me and shifting around jumping from shadow to shadow. I feel the wounds from his blade cutting deeper, and deeper. I can’t dodge, nor fire, nor move fast enough to hit him and know that I am weakening too fast. [/font] [font=Verdana]Much too fast… figures he would stoop to use poison to slow an enemy down. Can’t face them on equal terms. The poison from his blade seeps into the deep wounds and through my system forcing me to concentrate. I finally register that I have heard four grunts, so I hit him at least that many times. Hoping I may have succeeded more.[/font] [font=Verdana]So intent on the shadow dancer in front of me I do not see the orc come from behind who swipes at my bow. With emptiness the string goes lax and I am left with two arrows in one hand and my now useless bow handle in the other. I let the bow fall from my grip while turning with more agility then I feel. With one move, I raise my right arm high, flip the arrow point around, and with a yell of rage plunge the arrows in my tightly fisted hand down into the chest plate of the orc. I hear with satisfaction his yell of pain, as they hit a gap in his shoulder plating. I pull the arrows back out again and plunge it again into his other side. Then knowing I don’t have much time blindly sink them into whatever skin I see exposed. [/font] [font=Verdana]My hands are soon slick with blood, but I do best if I focus on the solid arrow shafts in my hands and the green of his skin. If I use my energy to focus there, I can ignore that he is also drawing my blood luckily much slower then Edriss was able to. I can no longer feel the other wounds or the ones he is still inflicting on my weakening body. [/font] [font=Verdana]I suddenly see movement behind him, and with relief hear Archonus’ shout as he charges in. Drawing the orc’s attention, he turns his black head to the new foe laying his neck exposed to me. Using the opening, I spring to his back plunging the arrowheads down. At the same instant, Archonus drives both his swords into the Orcs leg and stomach with his long and short sword respectively. Archonus quickly shifts his feet and plunges them again as the orc stops fighting and his arms drop to his sides. As the orc starts to topple to the ground I hold tight to my now deep red arrows, letting them slowly slide out from his neck once more. Archonus and I look quickly at each other, and I smile. Just one more for him saving me, I guess. We hear a crashing to our left and turn to see two Orcs coming toward us. [/font] [font=Verdana] I know I will not last long, but I will go down fighting. I will not give Edriss the pleasure; so facing them I mutter coldly, “Come on!” I raise the arrows still clutched in my now blood soaked arm spreading my legs to pounce. Archonus says, “Here.” I reach out, catching Longarm, his longbow, from the air. Without thinking I knock the two bloodied arrows and let them fly at the fast charging orcs no pause to my movements. I quickly move to keep shooting, my quiver far from empty. Archonus seems okay to let me deal as much damage as I can before he attacks. Soon they are on top of us, and I am back to my ploys of retreat and feigning. [/font] [font=Verdana]They luckily were already wounded from Arfin or the others, and go down fairly quickly. I hear Justice yelling to someone, and the return cry of her beast. I feel the slight stirring of the wind and look up to see Xath galloping away on the remaining horse as Justice lifts off with Thane. They must be after Edriss. They will need help once they catch up to him, but I only go one step before almost falling over. Seeing Archonus go toward Arfin’s position, I resolutely shake my head and move toward the first of the fallen Orcs that were of Edriss’ guard. [/font] [font=Verdana] Suddenly a black smoke fills my eyes. The pain, something is burning them. The tree… the ground is so dry being past the rains and before the snowfall. I finally reach the first fallen guard and pick up his fallen Kega’rin, but as I lay my hands on it I am overcome with a sense of dirtiness. I can feel the power, evil power. It’s oily handle crying out to me for blood, destruction, and murder. It would be so easy to give in. No, I am in control and have no thirst for warm blood like this, though I feel repulsed and hate toward this very item it will serve my needs for now[/font][color=#993300][font=Verdana].[/font][/color] [font=Verdana] As I reach down grabbing the shoulder of one guard a great crack sounds the beginning of the end for the old tree as it splits under the weight of flames and death. Kareth! How could I forget? I lost sight of him- there! A huge branch was falling to the place where he last lay. Ignoring the pain shooting through my body, I hold the cloak over my mouth and blindly run for where I saw him fall. He was not moving, but he must still live. He must! [/font] [font=Verdana] The shadowy figures of a six-foot man holding and supporting a much larger figure can be seen through the gray smoke. I stumble toward them as I hear Farathier’s choking voice, “Help me, he weighs more than a horse!” I quickly push my shoulder under Kareth’s much broader one. The monk seems to be mumbling, “I no feel good…Bad hurt…” He must have taken more of the poison into his blood then I did. Between coughs I say trying to be optimistic, “You’ll be fine my friend, just a little sickness.” His features are normally a light greenish tint, but now they seem to be a pale sickly gray. The monk seems to be making a valiant attempt to walk, and eventually with all three of us stumbling and supporting each other, we eventually clear the acrid smoke and collapse on a small pile of untouched leaves. As I struggle to sit up I feel the setting sun finally take all her light from us, as the orange light of the fire grows stronger.[/font] [font=Verdana] “We are fine.” I tell Archonus and Arfin as they rush toward us. “The bodies…” There is no need to waste air though, as Archonus and Arfin are already steering toward the Edriss’s guards. They have piled all four dead bodies on a small cart and started to push it away as the fire crackles and catches more kindling to flame. I struggle to a kneeling position draw from the land and air and ask for water to quench the flames of this fire. A small trail of water appears and dampens the surrounding ground and outer branches of the flame. The large tree center is now the only part burning, but it could still spread at any moment. Suddenly there is more water from some else’s magic and the flames sizzle out. Thane’s wings stirs the smoke and ash as he sets down near Arfin and Archonus, while Xath rides through the smoke and back into view.[/font] [font=Verdana] I look to Farathier and at his nod we both start to pull Kareth toward the cart and the others. By the time we drag ourselves to the refugee camp, the people are heading for Hywrl. Xath stops one of the few remaining townsfolk, and asks about the Duke. Unfortunately we find he was taken to Hywrl earlier that day. This is not a good sign. “We must get there quickly!” Xath rushes off, so keeping Kareth in the cart Farathier and I drag him to Hywrl. [/font] [font=Verdana] The gates that were impenetrable just a few short days ago now stand parted and open to all. There is a sparse city with one large keep at the center. People can be seen everywhere as they crowd and push their way to the platform and the keep. “I will stay and look after the monk.” Farathier volunteers. Justice with barely a glance back replies, “Fine. Watch over him. We will meet you here later, and no more plans like that last stunt.” With that she heads off. “We did what we felt we needed to,” Arfin’s heated response fading into the dim of chaos around us. Xath tugs my arm looking at the others not exactly approvingly either, “Let’s catch up to her.” [/font] [font=Verdana] As we get closer to the palace we see a healthy dark elf, Count Edriss, on a low balcony speaking to the crowd about traitors or some such. We also spy the Duke, Korienne, Irellion Greyclaw and a few other guards on the same platform. “There’s the Duke,” Xath points excitedly. Then her smile fades to a confused look, “but he look far from displeased or forced to be up there.” Justice trying to sound optimistic, “Maybe it is not as we feared or we heard incorrectly.” [/font] [font=Verdana] There are two other balconies higher up, but as we edge closer only the top one holds anything. It has seven prisoners all hooded. At Edriss’ signal, the executioner pulls the hood from one. We see the face of Randal, one of the bluemages Archonus helped to free in Oceanus. “These traitors to the crown will be put to death for their crimes.” “No!” Shouts Xath gaining a few startled looks and Edriss face swivels to look at us. She adds quieter to us, “These innocents can not die in our place.” One stood with neck in noose for each of us. Six prisoners ready to dangle about our height and gender, though an extra short one for Xath as a dwarf. It seems they do not know everything. [/font] [font=Verdana]Edriss looking entirely too pleased shouts at us, “Arfin Kegsplitter, is it you? Good friend come and take your place with me on this great day.” Arfin gives us a pained look, “Maybe I can do some good there.” We can only watch helplessly as he goes inside, but as he disappears inside the doors Xath hurriedly whispers from the side of her mouth plans, plans that may work. With everyone eyes shifting to Edriss greeting Arfin, I hide Xath behind my cloak and go toward a secluded wall. Eerily, she changes her form to that of the perfect likeness of Edriss Kiva. As I lower my cape I look into her eyes, “Are you ready?” [/font] [font=Verdana]“There is no other way,” she concedes with a deep sigh. As I move aside to let her return to where Justice and Archonus are waiting I put my hand on her shoulder and closing my eyes whispering, “Mark my friend true for my eyes.” She turns a small smile at me, knowing if I have to spy the mark the entire plan is doomed anyways. She then walks to Justice’s side. Justice who can help her with magic and truth, and Archonus who says that he can help with any pain or wounds she may get. [/font] [font=Verdana] I can do nothing for the prisoners or my friends from down here, but looking up to the roof I know that is where I should be. I’d have the best view and best advantages there. I maneuver my way back through the crowd till I reach the back entrance of the palace. There seems to be less activity here in the serene gardens of a long forgotten temple, as most seem intent on the hanging and spectacle in front. I take out my grappling hook and rope and use that to gain purchase to the second level back balcony. As I top the rail I see no guards and so quickly move to go up another level. [/font] [font=Verdana]The prisoners were on the third level, so there I must go. As I top the second rail, I take the hook with me. I hear some footsteps and try to hide in the small amount of shadows by the wall. A guard saunters out, barely glancing around. Whistling a bar tune I hear from Selura, he goes to the edge and peers down. I automatically feel disgust at the lack of security Edriss seems to have put up, the guard is a lack wit for with how little he looked I could have been hanging from the wall as a dragon and he would not have noticed. [/font] [font=Verdana] I edge forward not lifting my feet from the ground. Once he is within reach I try to use the rope and grappling hook to silence him before he can yell for help. Unfortunately he used that moment to pick his teeth clean, so I get his arm between his neck and the rope. With ridiculous easy he pries the rope away and turns to face me. I grab some herbs from my belt and throw it at his eyes. He screams as his eyes smolder and his vision blackens. I quickly retreat inside the closest doorway as he waves blindly punching and grabbing air. I use this to gain entrance inside, but his shouts have attracted a party of guards. [/font] [font=Verdana] As I run into the hallway, I face two guards. This is not working as planned, and when I feel the edge of a blade at my back know there is no way out now. “Put your hands up and stand as you are,” issues the command from behind me. “Go check on him. Take her weapons.” I hear armor plating grate as two guards run to the balcony and their bellowing comrade. The other two start to search me for other weapons; I take note of each item they find. [/font] [font=Verdana]The guard in command pushes his foot into my lower back, forcing me into the waiting hold of another guard. As the guard in front holds my arms tightly his commander makes easy work of binding my hands. I am held there as the commander goes to look at the now blinded guard. As they lead him into the hallway I see they have placed a bandage across his eyes. The commander takes the extra rope from my bound hands in his hand and giving it a sharp tug orders me to walk.[/font] [font=Verdana]As we start down the stair small arrow slits in the wall let me hear shouts, “The impostor is dead!” “Edriss killed him!” “It wasn’t a fair fight.” “Long live our new Count!” As I slow to try and hear more I am pulled forward again.[/font] [font=Verdana] We have only gone down one flight of stairs when I hear, “Sir!” They snap to attention as Edriss’ form appears on the stairs. At the guard’s words, the chiseled aristocratic body of Edriss straightens. His clothes have seen some wear, but he seems to let a curtain of authority fall over his whole body. [/font] [font=Verdana] I cannot help but smile knowingly at the Edriss standing before me though, for he bears my mark on his shoulder. This Edriss is really Xath, so she won that battle at least. “Release her.” Xath commands. “But- But, my lord, she was trying to take the palace, and she blinded one of the men.” The commander is now singing a cowering tune. [/font] [font=Verdana] I look at the guard pointing with my bound hands at Edriss, “I am here to protect that one, so I felt it necessary to see to the current state of things. As for the guard, wash his eyes out with some water and he will be fine.” Xath troubled by more pressing things then getting me out of a scrape turns to continue up the stairs and impatiently motions me to follow her. The guard slits one of the ropes, and pulling my hands away quickly shed the rope cord. Hastily grabbing the few weapons they found on me, I move to the huge drapery housing the royal balcony. [/font] [font=Verdana] The curtain sweeps aside by two bowing servants as we approach and I have to raise my hand at the sudden blinding sunlight. Xath dismisses the other guards and drawing the Duke to one corner asks, “What do we do now?” “Let me handle this,” the Duke reassures us a sly devious smile in place. Thus he proceeds to introduce Xath as the true Edriss as the light has shown, and the traitor defeated. The wrongs of those to be executed were based on falsehoods, and should be released. I am starting to become weary of his ability to play a crowd.[/font] [font=Verdana] Looking over the crowd I see the old priest from Oceanus, Dorn, walking beside Farathier as he pushes Kareth along. Justice’s stand by a corner looking up at us her expression unreadable from this distance. Archonus’ huddled form allows Arfin to pass him some bottles of medicine. Whatever he did worked. As the Duke concludes his speech, I push back to the wall. The others will be up shortly, and we have to get a healer for Kareth.[/font] [font=Verdana] Not trusting even death, that night we make plans over Edriss’ body. Plans where ‘Edriss’ dies in the night from wounds taken during the day. Plans to gain legitimate leadership here, and plans to get back Oceanus. We go in circles, but there seems to be only one answer. The lies and the truth, it is all getting distorted now, and buries us further in them. Someday maybe I can go back to a simpler life… one with no secrets needing to be kept or lies to be told. We leave with a plan in place, as best we could make and mostly at the Duke’s ideas and urging. Justice tells us, “Go and rest now we have a long day tomorrow. I will watch the body till the morning.” We file out somberly. Though spying Archonus and Farathiers retreating forms I know Justice may think she will watch alone, but it will actually be a group vigil.[/font] [/QUOTE]
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L'Aurel's Journal (A Kingdom of Ashes) -updated 3/23
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