Day 352 (330)

Day 352 (330)
Orania woke us, hands full of parchment and journals.
"Morning, Sisters. We've been busy this morning. We've checked every Royal Guard and found that the Ranak has only six members. The Ronok, which was the elite King's Guard, is now some of the leadership among the Royal Guard. Some Ranak also make up the leadership. The Queen sent a formal order for the Ranak to disband and merge with the Royal Guard. This was their reply."
Orania showed us a pouch filled with shredded parchment and the Queen's seal snapped into pieces. She unearthed a worn book from her stack.
"They sent this as their argument for defying a direct order from their Queen and why she cannot disband them even though they are her guard."
Orania handed the book to Lisa as she told us to follow her to breakfast. Lisa read the book silently, but we could, mentally, hear what she was reading. It was a very old rule book, clearly outlining the duties of every member of the Queen's Guard, from squire to general to Ranak. Repeatedly, the same statement was made: "Due to female nature, no Queen can disband any part nor dismiss any person of the Queen's Guard unless a crime has been committed." The fact they felt it had to be not only stated, but repeated so often made it all the more insulting.
In the dining room, we asked Orania for the rules for the King's Guard. When she found it, we noticed it was much thinner than the other.  Nowhere, not once, did it state that a King could not disband nor dismiss anyone in his Guard. It actually encouraged the King to "cull the corp" frequently and "forcefully" of those unworthy to serve him. It also encouraged him to  "offer" his unworthy guards as "gifts" to the Queen's Guard. This, too, was very insulting.
The Crowns entered, worry hanging over them. They saw us and the objects we were studying. Some of the worry lifted. They sat.  Elenvarna let Sarvicnal voice their worry.
"Are you as outraged as we? Such archaic notions and shameful attitude towards the Queen, the very person they are sworn to protect. I am embarrassed to just now being educated on these rules of conduct."
"Have you read these, Sire? These at the instructions for your Guards," I stood and showed him the thinner book.
Reading it quickly, Sarvicnal's glow changed to red as his anger grew. He reached a point where he could contain it no longer. He slammed the book down had enough to rattle the dishes. He stood and stormed out of the room. Elenvarna was weeping, at a loss for words.
Getting both books, we searched for the authors of these irritating tomes. To our dismay, they were both written by the same person.
"Orania, do you know this Cardon of Meanash?" Alice asked.
"Cardon? He wrote these? Get the King, he needs to hear what I have to say."
Lisa ran out and returned with Sarvicnal. His glow still had a red tint, but was otherwise normal. They sat to listen to what Orania had to say.
"The Sisters found that Cardon of Meanash wrote both of these books. It freezes my blood to hear this news. For centuries, Cardon was hailed as a great thinker, a man who could bring enlightenment to all the 'dark minds' of Crialas and beyond. It was not until his death that the truth became known. He was a Drow, and outcast of his people who rankled against their female leadership. We've been trying to undo his damage since his death, during Oarvicnal's reign."
"So, these books are his attempt to make sure female rulers are powerless, unable to even decide on the personnel of her own guard. No wonder they are so offensive. I hope these rules are no longer followed by our current guard?" Sarvicnal inquired as he held Elenvarna's hands.
"Except for the Ranak, no guard in this Kingdom follows these rules," Janesh said from the doorway, "We rewrote the codes of conduct during your absences. We only revived the Queen's Guard when we had a queen to protect."
"So, why does the Ranak still follow these ridiculous rules?" Lisa asked.
"They told me that they feel the new rules do not apply to them since they were written when no Queen's guard existed. As there is no specific wording saying 'this includes the Queen's Guards', they do not accept them nor intend to follow them. Fortunately, the six Ranak are the only ones who heed these preposterous rules."
A large part of the cloud of worry over the Crowns vanished with that statement. They turned to the subject of Lisa's upcoming combat. The full moon was only a few days away. These were seasoned soldiers. Did she really think she could win?
"I am destined to be the Queen's personal guard, teacher and protector of the heirs of Crialas. Bo has been prophesied to shield the cradle of Crialas. I have no doubt that will come to pass. If combat is the only way to achieve these destinies, then I will succeed."
The Crowns, Janesh, and Orania were still doubtful, but agreed that it was Lisa's choice.
After breakfast, we went to Sarvicnal's training room. Dummies, bags, and other equipment left no doubt to the purpose of this place. Janesh offered to spar with Lisa. With staves, the two had at it. One or two  at a time, the staff entered, drawn by the sounds of combat. At first, they didn't take this activity seriously. A near miss to Janesh's head changed his attitude. Removing his jacket and tunic, he faced Lisa bare-chested, showing the scars of combat. Lisa absorbed his stronger strikes and responded in kind. Soon, the clash of staves echoed loudly in the room and down the halls. Even the guards at the doors heard the noise and rushed to investigate. They stayed to watch and cheer. The fighters only paused when the staves broke in half. In short order, they found wooden swords and continued to battle. Sweat was pouring off of both of them when Lisa made a sweeping move, disarmed Janesh, and asked him to yield. Shocked, Janesh could only nod his reply. Lisa dropped her battered sword and collapsed to sit on the floor. Janesh plopped down beside her. The staff, realizing that they were not working, quickly left the room. The Crowns  and Orania were just as shocked as Janesh. Sarah went to them to check for wounds. Bo conjured a breeze to cool the pair. Finally, Janesh was able to speak.
"By the Holy, where did you learn to fight like that? Those moves, the stamina, the power, never have I seen such. I have been a soldier for two hundred years and you bested me. I ... I am flabbergasted."
"My trainers did not separate boys and girls in the arena. Our village is on a major trade route. Bandits, vagabonds, and ne'er-do-wells come through all the time. We had to be ready for combat of all types. Some of our trainers were former outlaws," Lisa said, still panting a bit.
Janesh just nodded, saving his breath to recover. The other elves began to have hope, having seen Lisa in action.
While we waited for the fighters to rest, Set and our other partners investigated the training room. Echo found the practice dummy fascinating until a wrong push sent one of its weapon arms swinging and nearly colliding with her. It now bears a scorch mark where she vented her displeasure. Set found the strength station. After explaining its purpose, Set began testing himself as to how much he could lift. By the time he reached his limit, the rack of weights was nearly empty.  Bo, also, tested his strength, seeing how much he could carry and still fly.  We were all surprised that he could almost lift a child by himself.  Dawn just looked around the room, not being overly interested in any one thing.
We remained in the training room until lunch. During that time, we all experimented with various types of practice weapons. Alice, Anna, and Sarah, unused to anything like a weapon other than the Swords, simply tried not to smack themselves as they tested the wooden equivalents of various arms. Greta, Callie, and I, having welded pitchforks, axes, and other tools of labor, found we had enough skill to not injure ourselves. The elves tried not to be critical, but their faces told us their opinions. Janesh and Sarvicnal unearthed some "cutting  dummies". These were meant to be sliced by real swords.
"To satisfy curiosity, would you use the Swords on these. We have seen your skill. We would like to see your combined skill, if you please," Sarvicnal requested.
Not an outrageous request, we agreed. The two men set the dummies up around the room in preset notches on the walls and post holes in the floor. We decided on the order: Alice, Anna, Gretta, Callie, Sarah, myself, then Lisa. The men signaled when they were ready.
Envy pulled on her knowledge and her post guardians. Not at expert level, they did manage a few deadly slices and stabs. Even though Sloth was a wizard, he and Anna landed some serious blows, in spite of Sloth's edge not being sharp.  Gretta's height let Greed show her some moves Janesh called "man-killers". Wrath, having been a warrior, and Callie gave the elves a show of "dwarf death strikes", which cleaved a few limbs and heads off the dummies. Sarah and Lust were a bit clumsy, but stated that they were aquatic fighters, not land ones. Vanity and I left a bit of destruction in our wake and some wide-eyed looks. Finally, Lisa and Gluttony, both being defenders of their homes, laid waste to a cluster of dummies. The elves seemed impressed. We helped clean up before following the Crowns to lunch.
As we ate, they commented on our techniques. Sarah offered to re-do hers in water, but was told it was not necessary. Janesh  mentioned us showing the Guard some of our moves. When he did,  I felt a pressure in my head. I asked Orania for an empty book. She found one quickly. Placing my hands on both sides, I let the pressure roll down my arms to my hands. The book glowed briefly. When the glow faded, I gave it to Janesh.
 "Here you are. This should be sufficient," I told him.
He looked at it warily before opening.  Upon opening the book, he became fascinated, turning the pages quickly.
"Sire, my Queen, look at this,"  he stood up and raced to them.
The three of them were wide-eyed as they examined it. Sarvicnal looked at me.
"Kayla, this is astounding. Every move you performed and how to execute it. Plus, there are dozens of other moves in here. I do not know how you did this, but I foresee our troops becoming the best trained anyone has ever seen."
"Sire, even I am not sure how I do things. When a true need is voiced, I am compelled to do something about it. I don't know if this is Faerie nature or Starcrystal's, but it is something I must do or suffer until it is done."
"Even before we left Denar," Callie told them, "everyone knew that Kayla could be counted on to do 'the impossible' if the need was great. Some accused her of hiding what was lost or stealing it in the first place. It was not until she found a missing child no one else could find did they, finally, acknowledge she had 'the gift' as they put it. A few in my own family, to the day we left, still believed she was conning everyone."
"Starcrystal's influence has been with you all your life?" Orania asked, trying to wrap her mind around it.
"Apparently, even though I didn't know it then, I have had, what one elder called, 'stardust in my steps'. That was a term for those who were born 'lucky'," I answered.
"Come to think of it," Callie commented, "a lot of our neighbors were obsessed with stars. Do you think Starcrystal's temple had anything to do with that?"
"It may have, but her weakened state may not have imparted the knowledge of stars, just the desire to know. If they had fully known, the position of the Twin Stars in the Great Dragon at our birth would have meant something to them," I told her.
"Wait," Sarvicnal and Narvicnal spoke, then Sarvicnal continued, "The Great Dragon awoke during your birth? Both of you were born on the same night?"
"In the same hour," Callie answered, "The mid-wife was cleaning up from Kayla's birth as she went from her house to mine. My dad said that she was glad we lived so close or she could not have done both herself."
The elves exchanged looks. Being so long lived, the elves knew the significance of this event. They looked at Set and Echo. Sarvicnal had Orania document it and cross-check it with their accounts. "Someone" should record it, he stated.
After lunch, we all went out to where the Royal Guard trained. Janesh showed our combat book to the master trainers. They, too, were fascinated and asked for a demonstration. Even Sarah, in a nearby pool, joined us in showing how to execute the various moves. Quick and observant, the elves repeated them flawlessly after only a few tries.
As Lisa was doing her moves, I felt a point of shock and anger. Following this, I located the leader of the Ranak hiding in the shadows. His anger grew when he realized he had been seen. He slipped deeper into the darkness and tried to escape my detection. He did not know that his anger was a beacon in my sight. No matter where he tried to conceal himself, I still let him know he was seen. Furious, he stormed away.
We were still on the training grounds when an elf, much larger than any we had yet seen, swaggered out, parting the rest before him. He wore the Ranak uniform.
"You!" he shouted, pointing at me, "My commander says you are untrustworthy and cannot stay in the presence of the Queen. You and your pet will leave the palace at once."
Everyone was dumb-struck. Since we weren't moving, this large elf assumed we were refusing and made to grab me. Set, in an instant, slammed him to the ground and pinned him where they landed. When he got his breath back, the Ranak seemed unimpressed.
"Call off your pet before I hurt him. Dumb animals should not suffer for their owners foolishness."
"Not dumb," Set said clearly, "Not own me. We are krukrr. We stay."
Ranak, obviously, did not believe in the intelligence of dragons, as Set's words surprised the large elf. The Ranak leader, watching from the shadows, was equally surprised. Set's actions emboldened the Royal Guards, who extracted the large elf and, loudly, escorted him off the grounds and out of the palace. They returned with his uniform. They handed it to the Queen.
"A crime, attempted assault on a Royal guest. By their out-dated rules, he is, as they say, culled," one of the master trainers announced, loud enough for the consealed leader to hear.
Elenvarna accepted the uniform. She handed it off to a staff person to "put away". The Ranak leader slinked off.
Near sunset, a valet found us and announced that the Ladernelle group had returned. We followed him and the Crowns to the front doors. This was a much changed group. They could barely face the Crowns.
"Your Majesties," one began softly, "we have gravely erred. Since leaving here, we have sought in every corner of Crialas Pagaou for twelve others who share our views. Rich, poor, old, young, priest, criminal, noble, or common, we sought them all. As you can see, our party had not grown, but shrank. A few, after being laughed at by so many, could not face you and headed home. We, however, made the deal to return and settle our differences. The people of Ladernelle congratulate the Crowns on the impending births of three royal heirs."
The Queen was in tears. The King was choked up. The group bowed and left. We all went back inside for dinner.
Orania came in after we had been seated for a while. She had an armful of parchment.
"In a fit of curiosity, I looked up previous events during the Great Dragon's waking. While it is not long, it is impressive. I thought you might like to see it."
The pages were passed around the circular table. Once name caught our attention.
"Derrok Tatamore? He was born during Awakening? He was the last to ride an Emperor, we think. His story is a bit sketchy," I told them.
Orania examined his page, "I shall see what we have on him."
We told her what little we knew to aid her search.
The Royal Nursery had seven real beds when we retired for the night. Set also had a bed-like mat for his comfort. Dawn settled on the perch she had used before. Echo returned to the ornamental ceiling to hang and sleep. Bo took his usual spot, curled upon Lisa's stomach, since she hardly moved in her sleep. Through the window, we noted the phase of the moon. Full in two days.

Day 351 (329)

Day 351 (329):

Lisa, Alice, and I awoke with a start. It was still dark. By Dawn's soft glow, we three plus Dawn and Bo, went out into the hall to let the rest sleep. Finding benches, we sat.

"What was that?" Lisa whispered.

"It felt like my bed was shaken violently," Alice commented.

"Dawn, Bo, what did you feel?" I asked quietly.

"A vibration," Bo answered, "as if the world shuddered."

"I heard a cry, like many voices, in chorus, calling for help," Dawn sadly stated.

"Let us check Crialas," I suggested, "It may be an elf emergency, since it targeted you two."

Agreeing, we went to the room that held all the wizard's glasses and similar items after changing from our night clothes. We found a clam-like device and sought the Royal Palace.

A female elf appeared in the device, "Royal Palace of Crialas, how my I help you?" she asked in a bored tone, looking down as she spoke.

"Are the Royal Couple available? We wish to inquire about Crialas' state," Lisa told her.

She sighed, "The Royal Couple are unavailable at this time," speaking to us but looking down, "If you leave your name and location, I will see if they will reply."

Lisa's composure fractured a bit, "Attend your station!" she barked, "Look at those speaking."

The elf woman's head snapped up. Embarrassment  flooded her face, "My apologies, Sacred Sister, I let my fatigue impair my duty. I have been at this station all night. The Royal Couple still sleeps. Perhaps I can answer your inquiry?"

We started to ask when the female was pulled away and Janesh's filled the device.

"Lisa? Alice? Kayla? Praise Fate! You called just when we needed you. The Queen's pregnancy has caused a bit of debate. She is also being threatened. Are you able to return to Crialas?"

"We shall attempt to be there by the end of the day," Alice told him as we rose.

He nodded and severed the connection. We rushed back and woke the others. Aoushlunia had given Sarah "pads" to put in her shoes to let her walk much easier and stay out of the water longer. We were packing as quickly as we could. Dawn was sent to the Five to let them know the situation. We were nearly done when they and Sarkin entered. Sarah was warned about her time limit and the dire consequences of not being in the water at the right moment. They all insisted we eat before leaving, which seemed like a good idea.

As we ate, many modes of transport were discussed. Sea dragons, water carriages, Faerie doors, plus others were suggested. We were still debating after we ate.

Outside, I felt a touch in my mind. Set felt it as well

"Hello? Who goes there?"

"Good, you hear me. Do you know of the trouble with the Crialas elves?" Aper See's voice sounded clearly in my head. 

"Yes, some of it. We are searching for a way to get there as we speak."

Aper See chuckled, "You gave me no thought?"

"We did not want to impose, my Lord. You know we try to do everything ourselves," I teased. 

Another chuckle, "Gather your party. I will bring you here."

I turned to my sisters. Fortunately, they had heard our exchange and was explaining it to the aquatics. Considering what we just went through with Konfotuta, their worry over us trusting another King dragon was understandable. We managed to get them to accept the decision. We gathered our gear and bid them good-bye.

Just like Stahendring, the world shifted. Nearly instantly, we were standing in Aper See's cavern, facing him and his girls.

"Welcome, again, Sisters of the Swords. Please, rest here a bit. Tell me what you have been up to since we last spoke."

Finding comfortable places, we told them of Jordsonn, Kirlan, Snathdubh, Castles Day and Night, and all up to Sarah's changing feet and legs. Wizardly curiosity made her, Set, Bo, and Dawn be intensely scrutinized. Sarah's feet were beginning to take on the fish-scale silver of her clan.

Once Aper See's curiosity was satisfied, he let us alert the elves of our location. The Royal Couple was ecstatic and ordered us to be retrieved at all speed. Janesh and his party must have flown for they were at the entrance in just over an hour. He hugged us to tightly that some of us winced. That quick action conveyed the desperation he, and his party, were feeling. We were helped into the saddle and took off at a breakneck speed. Dawn and Set flew to keep up. Bo and Echo rode with their partners. The elves were too consumed with getting us back to Crialas Pagoue as fast as possible to tell us why. 

We arrived in the capital just about mid-day. The energy of the city was tense and agitated. We went into the back side of the stables and entered the Palace through a side entrance. Out front, I could feel an angry crowd and nervous guards.

Sarvicnal and Elenvarna stood at the doors of their apartments. It saddened us to see guards, once again, posted at their door. Relief rolled off them like fog. We were in the parlor before any of them attempted to explain. Sarvicnal spoke.

"Not long after the portal was rebuilt and the land cleansed, leaders from the surrounding cities and communities began arriving to re-establish contact with us. The three flags caused some to become angry and demand an explanation. When we told them, they stormed out, refusing to speak to us ever again, and were calling for us to either step down as King and Queen or terminate the pregnancy."

We were shocked.

"Have they told you why they want the pregnancy terminated?" Lisa asked, gripping the chair to keep her temper in check.

"No, and they refuse to tell any who ask. They mutter 'unnatural', 'foul sign', and other nonsense. Even when pressed, they only answer 'You know why'. It is our hope you can find out what is going on and restore peace to our Kingdom."

"We understand, you Majesty," we all said as we stood.

Small smiles cracked the solemn faces of our friends. 

Leaving the Royal Couple, Janesh led us back to the front doors. The feelings of the people outside began blocking everything else out the closer we got.

I felt like I had been hit when the doors were opened. Those outside shouted at us, demanding to know who we were and why we were inside the Palace.

"We have come to liaison between you and the Crowns," Alice told them, "Speak your concerns to us."

The crowd murmured among themselves. After a few moments, one stepped forward.

"As you are not elves, you do not know our ways. Three is an evil number, especially in birthing. Triplets in livestock must be destroyed. Three limbs on a single branch must be removed. Our Queen bearing triplets is an abomination. Either they terminate the pregnancy, step down as ruler and be exiled, or," he paused to compose himself, "the Queen must die."

We seven looked at each other.

"Anna, Alice, is this true?" Lisa asked mentally.

"It is in their village, a town called Ladarnelle," Anna answered sadly.

"The superstition is strong there. Those that married into other villages carried it with them. Only a few communities even pay it heed," Alice reported.

Lisa turned to the crowd and pulled out her crest, "I am Lisa of the Tree Singer Clan. Crialas Pagoue does not believe that three, or any number, is evil. The Queen's pregnancy is cause for celebration. I know, because of the portal's taint, you have been separated from the rest of Crialas for nearly a century. Do this: speak with the citizens of this town. If you can find a dozen other elves who also feel that three is an evil number, we will try to work this conflict out. If you cannot, then accept the error and deal peacefully with the Crowns and Palace."

The crowd discussed this proposal. They said they would return tomorrow at sunset. Hopefully, we would have an agreement by then. They divided themselves up to go in many directions to find their dozen. Janesh relaxed as they left.

"Well done, Sisters. Now. let us return to the Crowns to tell them what caused this mess."

We followed him back to the Royal apartments. The Crowns could barely contain themselves as they waited for our report.

"In the village of Ladarnelle, they hold the strong belief that three is evil. Anything that occurs in threes must be killed or destroyed. Triple births result in four deaths, three babies and the mother. Being cut off from other folk during the portal's loss reinforced that view since no other view contradicted it," Alice told them.

The elves pondered, trying to remember any triple event that may have created this notion. None, not even Narvicnal nor Song Weaver, knew of such a thing.

"They claim it goes back to a local event, which they assumed happened everywhere," Anna told us, "One spring, a triple petaled, triple leafed flower appeared surrounding Ladarnelle for many miles. It seemed harmless until some children picked them. Their hands were burned and they became poisoned. Try as they may, nothing killed these flowers, even fire. The flowers grew and returned for the next two years. Then, the fourth year, no trace could be found. So, three petals, three leaves, three years. That began their 'three is evil' belief."

"I recall a call for help," Narvicnal piped, "during my father's reign. Yes, it said an 'evil plant' had 'invaded' the kingdom and to muster all troops to its destruction. We could not find it, even though the letter said it was 'everywhere'. Marvicnal dismissed it as nonsense and did nothing. Wait a minute. My father was his father's third child, the only boy. That must have added to it."

"That must be the 'King born in evil' they sometimes claim actually planted the flowers," Alice observed.

"Now, we wait. We apologize for dragging you girls into this small matter. They would not reason with us. A few of their number sit in jail for attacking soldiers and citizens who disagreed with their philosophy. We hope they fail to find twelve citizens who will back them," Elenvarna sadly told us.

"My Queen," Lisa went and knelt before her, "I am to live the rest of my life here as your guard and the guardian of your children. No threat against them or you is a small thing. Even if they find twelve to stand with them, I will see to it that no harm comes to any of you."

"Brave words for a human," a male voice interrupted, "However, we are expertly qualified to protect Her Majesty from all who threaten her and her children."

Lisa stood, "Who are you? Where have you been all this time, if you are truly her protectors?"

The male elf, plus three others, fully entered the parlor. They wore uniforms unlike Janesh or any of the Royal Guards. The Crowns and Janesh gasped when they saw them clearly.

"We are Ranak, the elite of the Queen's Guard. Unlike our fellows, we have not joined with the King's Guard into one unit. We will even attack the King if his actions threaten the Queen's life."

"I was told none of you were left," Elenvarna said softly.

"As we led all to believe, Your Majesty. We have stayed in the shadows, making sure no threats were carried out. These girls and their pets have been under close observation. Had we deemed them a threat, none would still live."

Lisa strode up to the lead Ranak. He was only an inch taller than she, so they were eye-to-eye with each other.

"Fate and prophesy have declared me to be the Queen's personal guard."

All of the Ranak laughed.

"We believe in neither Fate nor prophesy. If you truly wish to be Queen Elenvarna's personal guard,  you must earn the title."

"Please, no," Elenvarna begged, "do not do this. She is too young to face you in combat. Please."

"I am sorry, my Queen, but we cannot let this troggarr lay claim to a title she has not earned. If she refuses our challenge, she forfeits any claim, regardless of Fate or prophesy," he said coldly.

"My Queen," Lisa turned her back on the Ranak to speak, "I will accept their terms. I know my place is at your side. I will prove it to them," she said over her shoulder to the leader.

He smiled menacingly, "Good. We give you until the full moon to practice and prepare. Train well, troggarr, and make your peace with your gods, as you will be seeing them soon."

They bowed and left. Lisa was so mad, she couldn't talk. Bo excused them and pushed Lisa to another room. Mentally, we could hear Gluttony and Bo trying to calm her down. They had, wisely, guided her into Sarvicnal's private training room. We decided to leave her be until dinner. The rest of us stayed in the parlor and talked about what we had experienced since parting last. Set's size change also intrigued them.
Lisa's mood was much improved when we all were called for dinner in the Crown's private dining area. Talk skirted the Ranak and their challenge. Sarah's changing appetite did not interfere with her enjoying the elf food.
Unlike our previous stay, we were given a room in the Royal apartments. The Crowns felt "safer" with us so much closer than even the special suites reserved for visiting leaders and ambassadors. The room we were shown was being remodeled to become the Royal Nursery, just a wall away from the Crown's bedroom. Although elves do not sleep like humans or most other races, they do have "resting rooms" with couches, mats, pillows, or even full beds. Elf babies, we were told, are like most babies and do completely fall asleep. Unlike humans, there will be no cribs, no cage-like beds high off the floor with rails and bars to encase the infants. Elf infants sleep on, essentially, a massive soft pillow laying directly on the floor.
For us, mats were laid out by an apologetic staff and Crowns. We did not find fault with this or them. The suddenness of our arrival and the impromptu selection of sleeping arrangements did not let them plan in advance. We settled in, tended to needs, and went to sleep rather quickly.

Days 346-350 (324-328)

Day 346 (324):

Upon waking, I heard Sarah whine softly. She was awake and examining her feet. I saw rough spots and small cracks in her skin. She was trying to heal them, but was not succeeding.

"What is wrong with me? Why won't these heal?" Sarah asked me, trying not to cry.

"I don't think healing is needed. Let me try something," I told her as I called for Set's skin cream.

I sat on her bed and gently worked the stuff into her feet and lower legs. She sighed as the skin softened and the cracks disappeared. We examined her after we were done. Callie, now awake, gave her assessment.

"Your skin is changing. Just like Set, you are having a growth spurt. Also, you may need to spend part of every day in the water."

Understanding, we got dressed and headed for breakfast. As we headed down, Sarah complained walking hurt. Fortunately, Set was strong enough to bear her to the eating area. During our meal, Callie and Envy assessed Sarah's shoes and found the cause of Sarah's pain. We became the center of attention as they magically altered them to cushion her changing feet. The aquatics were quite impressed.

After eating, we headed to the ramp. Sarah removed her shoes, hitched up her skirt, and waded into the water. The feelings she experienced made all of us gasp. With uncharacteristic abandon, Sarah dove into the deeper part and swam out of the outpost. The rest of us hurried around to the edge of Arvocan. Sarah's clothes were floating nearby. Bo and Dawn retrieved them as we looked and felt for Sarah. She popped up not far from us, a big smile on her face.

"Glorious! This is glorious! Oh, Sisters! Never, never have I felt so alive, so at home, and at peace. This is, truly, where I belong," she shouted from the water.

We all laughed, feeling her joy as our own. Set and Bo dove in and the three of them played long enough for her clothes to dry. We were not bored as they played. Sarah's retooled shoes were examined by the aquatics. Set's cream was scrutinized and the ingredients copied for reproduction for their use. Also, we were told of the tragedy of the Black Water clan:

Their area was a series of underwater caverns so deep, sunlight never shown there, hence the name "Black Water". Glowing sea creatures lit their world. Just like other merfolk, they patrolled an area around their grotto for poachers, invaders, and others who would do harm. Teraia, now Lust, plus others were on such a patrol when a violent sea quake collapsed the caverns of their grotto. All those inside were crushed and killed. Less than a dozen of the clan lived. Unable to rebuild the clan from the few who remained, each person went their separate ways. Some joined other clans. Some, like Teraia, went to find adventure elsewhere. Now, "Black Water" is a term used to describe a great loss of any life.

Sarah's "humanity" caused her to become embarrassed when she and the others tired of their play. She crawled as far up to us as she could and remain covered by the water. Between Bo, Dawn, and Echo, they provided enough concealment to get her out of the water and wrapped in a cloak. We sheltered her as she dressed. Her mood was much improved.

We were sitting by the water when Aoushlunia found us. 

"Greetings, Sisters. The elders and I were discussing the Faerie door you proposed. We have examined our entire grotto and cannot locate a single suitable place for such a construct. We wish you all to also examine our grotto. Perhaps we are unclear of its requirements."

We accepted the invitation. Aoushlunia told us to return to the water's edge in about an hour for our "transport".

Inside the outpost, our swimmers complained of hunger. We had never seen Sarah eat so much. It seemed none of them could get enough until they stopped, some in mid-bite, and stated they had their fill. From Sarah's face, I feared she had eaten too much too fast. She kept from getting sick by sipping some tea.

Back at the water's edge, we found Aoushlunia outside an aquatic carriage. She explained that the grotto's entrance was a long underwater tunnel, too long for us to simply hold our breaths. This carriage could take us safely underwater to the dry part. We piled inside. Aoushlunia went to the driver's seat.

We traveled most of the way above water. We were all excited to see a real mermaid grotto. Aoushlunia warned us as we started to go under. True to her word, not a drop entered the carriage. During a turn, we got to see what pulled the carriage. Two extremely large sea horses were bridled and harnessed similarly to land horses, save they were vertical where land horses are horizontal. The carriage did not seem to be a great burden to them as they swam into the tunnel entrance to the grotto.

Holes and cracks in the in the roof made this part a twilight ride. Small fish and other sea creatures swam and scurried in the faint light. Callie told us, despite the broken roof, the tunnel was strong and safe for normal stresses. We came to a stop then rose up to a cavern. Two people placed a plank from the carriage door to the dry beach. We exited. Aoushlunia joined us.

"Ladies, my court is this way," she motioned for us to follow her.

They, obviously, dealt with Stahendrig as suncrystals and glowing grubs provided light to this cavern. Feeling out, I could tell we were still underwater, deeply underwater. Since Callie was calm, I knew this place was secure and sturdy. Cargo lay piled upon the dry area, heavy items close to the water while lighter ones went progressively deeper. We walked a corridor between this stuff towards a corner of the cavern. I felt a group waiting for us. We entered a smaller cavern with less than a dozen of elder merfolk "sitting" in a pool of water that was fed by a slow drip from the ceiling.

"Council, you remember the Sisters from the ritual? Ladies, my court," Aoushlunia introduced.

We greeted each other almost formally. Once done, we all sat on the stone lip of their pool to discuss Faerie doors.
"Sisters, do you know where you are, precisely?" one man asked.

"Yes, sir," Callie began, "We are five and three-quarter miles from land, one hundred twenty-six and one eighth feet below the surface of the ocean, one and one tenth miles from the entrance of this grotto, and under nineteen and five eighths feet of stone."

The merfolk silently stared.

"You did say 'precisely', sir," Callie reminded him.

They burst out laughing. The man was jabbed a few times for his question. When they could speak, another addressed us.

"As you can see, obviously, this dry part of the grotto is precariously fragile. Your Faerie door, we fear, would undo its balance and ruin all we have managed to salvage."

It was our turn to laugh. They, however, did not see the humor.

"Council," I began, "your fears, while understandable, are unjustified. Faerie doors do not damage the place where they are located. Not a stone nor a grain of sand need be moved nor disturbed."

Confused silence. I found a painting nearby and demonstrated that it, like a Faerie door, did not require a hole in the wall to be attached. It took a bit, but they seemed to understand.

"So, if no doorway is carved, how is it constructed?" the first man asked.

"The Faerie build it out of magic. Once a place is chosen, they work from both sides to open the door on this realm and attach it to a door in the Faerie Realm. It is, then, almost permanent," I told them.

" 'Almost'?" Aoushlunia repeated.

I explained how it could be removed, moved, or sealed.

They talked for a few moments, trying to reach a decision on this matter. Finally, they decided to allow it.

"Excellent, excellent, always looking for a challenge," an unknown female voice sounded, echoing in the cavern.

We all looked around. Not far from us, a silver circle appeared on the floor. A "young" female Faerie rose up. She wore very little, just enough pale yellow material to cover her breasts and groin. The bag at her side covered nothing. Coal black hair, dark orange eyes, and caramel skin, she stood eye-to-eye with Gretta. Her perfect teeth shown starkly white when her dark lips smiled.

"Greetings, all, greetings to one and all, I am Sella, door builder by trade and vocation. Aloriana, the Faerie Queen, told me to keep an ear out to the River Mouth Clan in the event the Sword Sisters convinced them to allow a Faerie door. So, where shall it go?"

Once they got over their shock, the council began discussing location. Changing from tails to feet, they led us all around the grotto. Knowing now that no physical hole was needed to construct the door, it simply became a matter of being able to reach it from both land and water. It took some time, but we all agreed upon a spot at the water's edge that even legless merfolk could get to easily.

"Good, good, good, wonderful spot. Now, my turn," Sella stated as we backed out of the way.

She began pulling small nails out of her bag. She touched them to the wall, forming a tracing of a doorway. She adjusted its width to accommodate long tails and fins. When she was done, she stepped back to admire her work. 

"Now comes the important part," Sella said to no one in particular.

She took out a long, wand-like crystal. She touched the end to the center-top nail. Both crystal and nail began glowing. Sella pulled back, drawing the light with her. She proceeded to weave a string of light back and forth until every nail glowed and a web of light filled the doorway. With the crystal still glowing, Sella wrote, in Faerie, the location of this new door. The web strands expanded and filled the frame with a solid light. The light shifted to the familiar shining silver. Talris walked through.

"Greetings, all. I am Talris, Keeper of the Doors. This door is to only be used by non-Faerie in emergencies. Calling for help while near the door will alert me and I will open the door. Tell your clan that I can tell liars from those truly in danger. Trying to fake injury or distress will not succeed. Any questions?"

"Who can get in from your side?" one man asked angrily.

"Only those with a legitimate reason to visit your grotto. No one can bypass me from one Faerie door to another. Even gods must see me to open these doors."

Satisfied, the council thanked Sella and Talris, who walked through the door and it "vanished".  The merfolk examined the wall to make sure Sella's nails had not weakened the stone. No marks could be found. To remember its location, Aoushlunia scratched the merfolk words for "Faerie Door" into the rock.

"Sisters, we thank you. We shall not have a Black Water in our grotto with a Faerie Door here now. Let us get you back to Arvocan. It is nearly nightfall and others have wondered about your location," Aoushlunia told us.

We said our good-byes and returned to the carriage. Aoushlunia stayed behind, sending a frog-man to drive the carriage back. The tunnel out was pitch black since no sun shone through the riddled ceiling. Even above water, the ride was in near total darkness. Arvocan's lights were a welcome sight. Sarkin and Corina met us at the water's edge. They told us that many feared we had grown bored with Arvocan and left without a word to anyone. We assured them we still loved Arvocan and had not yet decided on our next move.

We ate at a leisurely pace, explaining many times where we had gone and what we had done. By the time we went to our room, we were all exhausted.

Days 347-350 (325-328):

These few days have sort of melded together. Sarah woke, ate, and swam every morning to keep her feet and legs healthy. The rest of us found small jobs to occupy ourselves. Set was now up to my chest when he sat back on his tail. His fire melted every metal we could find. His ice was shattering stone. His lightning was beginning to branch, hitting more than one target at a time. The compounds his tail barb could produce astounded all of us. Even grown sea dragons could not match him. A second barb was slowly erupting on the opposite side of his tail. It was unclear if it, too, would produce the same types of compounds. We traded components, scales, feathers, and talents for replacement garments and unique aquatic items.

Day 345 (323)

Day 345 (323):

We each woke on our own, I being the first as usual. Alice walked up next to me as I watched the sunrise.

"I meant to ask you last night, but Sarah's chatter got in the way. Who or what was that turtle woman?"

I, lightly, chuckled, "I don't know the name she uses, but she is Katanokami, aquatic helpers. Not Faerie, but immortal just the same. She and other Katanokami will be the ones who 'cleanse and purify' Sarah of her 'land life'. Their other duties include guiding migrating water creatures to new feeding areas."

Alice giggled, "Perfect, just the one to proclaim Sarah's fitness for everyone to hear. That explains all the people I saw around her. She has been doing this for ages."

"Did they seem happy?" Sarah asked as she joined us, "I am not questioning whether or not to do this. I would just like to know if others were happy they made the choice."

Alice pulled Sarah between us, "I only saw tears of joy. They do not transform the unsure."

We stood there, joined by each Sister as they woke. At our leisure, we all went to breakfast. The atmosphere had the taste of anticipation. They were waiting along with us. While the majority were familiar with this ritual, they recognized the uniqueness of our situation.

While exiting the eating area, we met Fabian and Aoushlunia. They were both carrying bundles.

"Dear, it is time. We will get you dressed. Sisters, Merroc has a vessel to carry you to the ritual site. We will be along shortly."

Sarah parted with the pair. The rest of us went outside and found Merroc, standing near the water equivalent of a horse-drawn carriage. In place of wheels, a boat hull supported the enclosed seating compartment. A ramp cut into the side of the hull took the place of the steps. The harnesses trailed into the water, twitching occasionally as whatever was down there moved restlessly.

"Ladies, let us be on our way. Another is en route to carry Sarah and the others," Merroc told us as he helped us enter.

Inside was comfortable and spacious. Set took up a lot of the floor between the two seating areas. Bo curled in Lisa's lap. Dawn, likewise, nested in Alice's lap. Echo was too nervous and could not settle into any one place or position. She didn't like not knowing where we were headed or what was pulling this "contraption". Fortunately, the trip was over quickly and we exited onto a small island, the only land in sight. A group of Katanokami greeted us and escorted us to a small pool. Here, they washed our feet and legs. Our companions were given full baths. From there, we were taken to an open-sided hut to sit and wait.

We were not alone for long. Soon, merfolk bearing Aoushlunia's broach arrived. Some changed into land form while others chose to remain in the water. Those in land form also went through the foot washing process.

Sarah's carriage was announced by horns sounding from large shells. Aoushlunia and Fabian helped Sarah out of the carriage. She looked as if she was getting married. Her gown was long, very pale green, and wrapped loosely around her body. She was led to the foot washing pool. Her gown was held up as her feet and legs were cleaned. She was led between a deeper pool and our hut. Lust floated at her shoulder, slightly behind her. Across the pool, a stage-like area lay empty. The Katanokami, after carefully arranging Sarah's gown, ambled over to face the stage. They began singing in ancient aquatic.

Upon the stage, beings materialized. As she looked like Scotvla, we guessed the largest being to be the Goddess Ocean. The others I could only guess their names and stations. Apparently, divine beings can block their natures and pasts, as Alice and Anna were struggling to read them. Where merfolk are human from the waist up and fish-like from the waist down, one of the smaller beings, a male, was human-like on the right side of his body and fish-like on the left. We found him hard to look at without emotion. A female stood next to him. She looked like Rheana, the neriad seer in Arvocan. Her dress looked like fresh, living sea plants sewn together. The last was an ancient looking woman dressed in a garment that shifted like waves and, if you were watching, various sea creatures appeared and disappeared among the "waves". It was this ancient that spoke to Sarah.

"Child, state your name, home village, and family line for us."

"My name is Sarah. I have lived most of my life at the Lady of Heart Convent as both my parents died when I was young. My mother was named Rain who was the half-blood daughter of Orraia who was the full-blood daughter of Chief Cleric Merroc and Aoushlunia, Matriarch of River Mouth Clan."

"I see. How long have you known of your bloodline?" she asked sincerely.

"Less than a year have I known I had mermaid blood. Only a couple of weeks ago, I met Matriarch Aoushlunia and confirmed our blood tie, Ma'am."

"You have not spent years pining for the life of a mermaid?" she asked, truly puzzled.

"I didn't know it was possible, until a couple of days ago, to be a mermaid. At the Convent, my life was strictly regimented. Any daydreaming was punished. 'Keep your mind in your body' was a daily chastise from the Mother Superior," Sarah answered.

The deities looked at each other, exchanging information and opinions. I could "hear" them, almost understand them, but they were finished too quick for me to grasp.

The lady in the sea plant dress stepped forward as the ancient stepped back.

"What skills do you bring to your clan? How does your clan benefit from adding you to its membership?"

"Bonding with Lust has granted me the powers of a healer. I can diagnose, treat, and cure nearly all maladies, injuries, and diseases. This works for people, animals, plants, bodies of water, and areas of land. This healing can also put undead to rest."

"If you and Lust separated, this power would disappear?"

"We are bound. Only by my death can we part," Sarah replied, voice cracking with emotion. Lust vibrated in sympathy.

The deities conferred again. This time, I began to catch sounds and short words. Still, they spoke so fast, they were done before I could grasp the subject of their conversation.

"Lust was aquatic?" the sea plant woman asked. 

"Yes, Ma'am. She was merfolk as well."

"Full-blooded?"

"Yes, Ma'am."

"Was she of the same clan?"

"No, Ma'am, she was Black Water Clan."

Gasps sounded from all the aquatics, Katanokami included. The deities did not converse, but nodded to each other. This seemed to conclude the questioning.

From somewhere, the Katanokami produced a chalice of sea-green stone and one of them took it to Sarah, but did not hand it to her. The rest of the Katanokami surrounded Sarah and guided her to the steps that led down into the large pool. As she descended, the Katanokami held her gown out of the water. The one with the chalice preceded her but stopped at the next-to-last step and stood to one side to allow Sarah to continue unimpeded. We noticed, as Sarah continued, that they were actually lifting her gown off of her letting her enter the pool completely nude. Fortunately, the water was at the right level to cover her nudity. Lust floated in the air by her side, right above the water. When she reached the one with the chalice, she was almost shoulder-deep and the gown was being taken away by the other Katanokami. The deities went to the four sides of the pool. Ocean stood at the far end. The fish man was on the side opposite our shed. The sea plant woman was directly in front of us. The ancient was behind Sarah, at the top of the steps. It was she who spoke.

"Sarah, daughter of Rain, granddaughter of Orraia, great-granddaughter of Aoushlunia, by drinking this elixir, you step away from the land and into open water. This is your last chance to change your mind. If you are ready, take the chalice and drink it all."

Sarah took the chalice, which allowed the Katanokami to climb out of the pool. Lust floated over and dipped the tip of her blade as deep into the chalice as she could go. Upon rising, Lust rotated to let the elixir run the length of her bland and over her handle. As Lust did this, Sarah drank the chalice dry. She made to hand it back, but it dissolved and joined the water in the pool.

"This pool will cleans you of all taint from the lands you have walked upon. At the other end, you will receive Ocean's kiss, imparting all the blessings and banes of life as a mermaid," the ancient instructed.

Sarah and Lust descended the last step, submerging completely under the clear water. We six could feel her change. When she would have had to surface to take a breath, we felt her joy at realizing she could breathe underwater. In spite of her elation, she continued at a steady pace. Lust kept pace with her easily, also underwater. By halfway, Sarah found that she was more buoyant and, though still upright and "walking", she had to force herself to stay on the bottom of the pool. The last half of the pool was far deeper than the first half. This allowed Sarah to experience pressure changes and her response to them. While she did not sprout a tail, her legs were moving like one when she reached the other end of the pool. Ocean bent and lifted Sarah out of the water. Lust hung in the air at her side.

"Sarah of the River Mouth Clan, I claim you as a citizen of the sea and welcome yo into this great family."

Ocean pressed her lips to the top of Sarah's head. For a brief moment, I "saw" Sarah in her final mermaid form. Setting Sarah down, Ocean looked at Lust.

"Lust, who in the flesh was Teraia of the Black Water Clan, I reclaim you and re-welcome you to this great family. As your clan is no more, I have no doubt the River Mouth Clan will accept you as a wise elder into their number."

Ocean then clasped Lust and kissed her as well.

The Katanokami brought Sarah's gown back, but it was now a rich blue-green. They covered her up and re-draped her as before. The four deities returned to the stage and faded away just as they had appeared.

As if a signal had been sounded, the aquatics who were in land form rushed upon Sarah, hugging her, praising her, and introducing themselves properly. We waited until the majority had finished before we approached her. She was speechless with joy. We told her to enjoy her new life and that we were happy that she had found her place at last.

The aquatics filed into the water. The Katanokami walked us back to the water carriages. Sarah rode with us as Merroc, Aoushlunia, and Fabian took the other carriage "back", wherever that was. We told Sarah how we felt her change and the joy she experienced. She told us how worried she had been during Fabian's tutoring over the whole process and how glad she was for his instruction.

It was afternoon when we returned to Arvocan. Now, the aquatics who had been indifferent-to-hostile were open and friendly. In the outpost, Sarah found she had a "craving" for some of the stranger food that they served. Still not up to eating the living selections, she did scarf down some of the raw choices.

In our room, a different bed was left for Sarah. This one was a large bladder filled with water. She settled upon it quickly and was soon fast asleep. The rest of us were not far behind.

Day 344 (322)

Day 344 (322):

Our fatigue from yesterday caused us to sleep later than usual. The sun was half a hand above the horizon when we woke. The terrestrial dragons had decided to return to Demagram during the night. Notes were left to say good-bye, good luck, safe travels, and thank you. A report was also left. Konfatuta's body had completely dissolved but left a fine greenish-white sand in a near perfect formation of his shape on the ocean floor. For reasons unknown, the current was not moving the particles, even though they were powder fine. Seven small jars filled with the powder accompanied the report. Lifting one, I noticed it was heavier than a jar that size filled with sand would be. Through the thick glass of the jar, I could still feel his essence. We put the jars into our gear and went to find food.

Varlan and his crew were finishing up when we joined them. They told us that the Clapper was nearly fried channeling all of that power and might have to be scrapped and rebuilt. Likewise, the lightning items that were attached were melted, burnt, or otherwise ruined. Thankfully, no one was expecting them back as they were all donated. A few of the largest surviving staffs not made of wood were sent to the coral barrier for more protection. The holes were being repaired as quickly as it was safe to do. 

Varlan and his crew left, taking some of the terrestrial people who were ready to return to land. We walked with the ship until it caught the wind and sped away.

Free of anything pressing, we set about exploring Arvocan. The streets, like the windows, tried to be as straight as the rock and coral would allow. No fruit nor vegetable stands could be found. Dried herbs were available. The majority of plant products were water plants, both fresh and saltwater. Some were from the deep waters and completely foreign to us. We relied upon our companions to let us know if any were palatable to them. A few refused payment, expressing their honor at providing them with a bit to eat. Others were strictly business. We did encounter a couple who refused both us and our companions. Their emotions were muddled and their reasons confused.

Around mid-day, we were looking down from the highest point that we could reach by walking. We realized how little of the upper half of Arvocan we had been frequenting by staying near the outpost. We stood there for some minutes. A mental call from Sarkin let us know Sarah's tutor had arrived and was waiting in the outpost. We agreed that I would pop her back and allow the rest to make their way back normally.

The tutor was startled when we appeared. Set's appearance broke him out of his silence.

"Ah, Sarah, is it? I am Thom, your ritual tutor. This is, oh, let me think, Kara?"

"Kayla," I gently corrected, "and this is Sarroset, my partner."

"Right, right, Kayla and Set. Now, Sarah, let us retire in privacy to go over the ritual and your part."

"We can't watch?" Set asked sadly.

"What? Who? Oh, right, he mind speaks. No, not this. It is a private matter for now. You will get to watch the actual ritual, however."

"Alright, I'll wait," Set resigned as he sat near my leg.

Thom and Sarah walked off. Set and I waited for the others to join us. We watched the other riders and sea dragons go about their duties. We noticed a very young pair riding with another set. The aquatic female, physically, looked only to be ten to twelve years of age. The sea dragon paired with her was too small to carry her. Both of them were scared. Their mentors, fortunately, were very patient, supportive, and kind. Set was curious, so we went over to them. The youngsters were skittish, but Ronic and Wave Racer assured them we were friendly. Set and the young sea dragon took to playing in the shallow area of the ramp. Ronic introduced me to Seria, the newest rider assigned to Arvocan. Before I could speak, Seria, who was sitting on Wave, placed her hands on both sides of my head.

"Purple! Her eyes are purple! How? How are they purple?"

"I am of the Faerie. It is that blood that gives me purple eyes and this red hair."

Seria looked intensely at my face and hair. She looked behind me. She guided me to turn.

"Where are your wings? Fairies have wings, don't they?"

I giggled, "Some fey, called fairies by some, do have wings. I, however, am what is called Faerie, a very ancient race that lives near the gods and cares for their creations.

She tilted her head and thought a moment. It took her a second, then she asked, "Ve hye may Oceania?"

I smiled and replied, "Oceania du un gaea mi hye."

Seria, Ronic, Wave, Tide Runner, and Set stopped in their tracks at my reply. Ronic was the first to gather his thoughts.

"Your voice. When you speak your race's tongue, your voice gains much power. I dare say such a voice could shake the entire ocean."

"Sir," I began nearly in a whisper, "you grant me powers I do not have. My voice is but a note in a chorus. Faeries have done much with their voices, but I am far from such power."

"We do great and wonderful things, though," Set told them as I hid my blushing, "Meanies are no match for us."

"Set..." I tried, gently, to stop his bragging.

"It is true," Lisa said as my other sisters entered, "With and without us, you two have done some wonders."

My cheeks were so hot, I feared my face would melt.

Talk of our "greatness" ended when Sarah and her tutor Thom returned. Thom seemed annoyed while Sarah was fearful and teary-eyed.

"What's wrong? What causes you such fear?" I asked, going to Sarah's side.

"Thom claims I am 'unfit' for the ritual. Being bonded with Lust, it seems, is 'unacceptable'," Sarah told us as she tried not to cry. 

We seven, our companions, the riders, and their dragons stared at Thom in disbelief. He dug out a book made of pressed water plants and began reading.

"'Candidates for transformation must be of sound mind, with a singular focus on becoming aquatic. No bonds, legal or otherwise, can remain intact between the candidate and any other entity if the ritual is to succeed.'"

Thom snapped the book shut, punctuating his claim. The riders and sea dragons slinked away, having no help to give either side of this dilemma.

"Sir, Lust is a part of Sarah and a mermaid as well. Does that still bar her from her heritage?" Alice inquired.

"Lust is a sword, not a mermaid or any aquatic. That...thing must be cast aside for the ritual to work. No exceptions."

Sarah burst into heartbroken wailing. Lisa gave Thom the deadliest of looks, which actually made him cringe. We tried consoling Sarah as her crying echoed in the dock area. 

Up the ramp, Aoushlunia and Merroc swam so fast they nearly shot out of the water. Merroc changed first and stormed over to Thom.

"What is this I hear about Sarah being unfit for the ritual? Do you not know who she is?" he yelled.

Thom grabbed for the book to read Merroc the same rule he had quoted to us. Aoushlunia snatched it out of his shaking hands.

"If you had any sense, you would see that they are one, inseparable as tides and water. Your leaders will hear of this insult," she slammed the book down to make her point.

Thom stammered, trying to regain some dignity in the face of these elder aquatics. They would not hear his excuses. Grabbing him, the pair plunged back into the water and dragged Thom at top speed. We were left bewildered.

We all went to the eating hall to sit and get Sarah something to ease her sob-induced pains. Our confrontation had become hot news and we received a variety of strange looks. They stayed back from us to not insult us further and to make up their minds on the matter. 

An elder, who looked a bit like a turtle, shuffled over to us.

"Sarah? Which is Sarah?" she asked in a voice that sounded ancient and little used.

"I am," Sarah answered between sobs and sniffles.

The turtle woman looked her over critically, eyes squinted so tight and covered in wrinkles to the point she looked half asleep. Finally, she clicked her tongue and shook her head. 

"Thom is a fool or stupid. A soul bond is exempt from the rule of singularity. If he had truly studied the rules for transformation, he would not have upset you with false claims."

"So I am not 'unfit' for the ritual?" Sarah asked.

"No, my dear," the turtle woman chuckled, "Thom is unfit to tutor you. The Matriarch and Chief Cleric will straighten him out. Worry not, my dear."

The whole room seemed to sigh in relief. Sarah hugged the turtle woman and thanked her over and over. When they parted, she gave me the strangest look and winked at me. My confusion was quickly replaced by "knowing" her identity. I kept myself from giggling as she shuffled out of the room. I felt her leave and knew we would be seeing her again.

With that solved, the rest of the aquatics expressed their pleasure at Sarah joining her new family. We got lunch. 

During our meal, a frog-like person joined us.

"Beg pardon, Sisters. I am Jondric, a historian. I am charged with recording candidates' histories so, should their terrestrial families come looking, I can tell them if, when, or where the candidate passed this way."

When Jondric was ready, Sarah told him her history as much and as far back as she could remember. He recorded her words accurately and completely. He thanked her and us and left.

Aoushlunia, Merroc, and a handsome male entered a moment after Jondric left. I heard many females inhale sharply when they saw him. The trio walked over to us.

"Ladies, this is Fabian, Sarah's new ritual tutor," Merroc explained.

Sarah rose to introduce herself. Fabian took her hand to help her stand. Their auras mingled for a moment, as if deciding, then smoothly became similar up their arms and to their shoulders. As if shocked, Fabian released her suddenly.

"Forgive my forwardness," he said in a soft voice, "I hope I gave no offense."

We all chuckled and let him know he had done nothing wrong. The two of them left to go over Sarah's part in the ritual. Behind them, looks of jealousy and envy followed them out the door. Aoushlunia and Merroc, observant as always, noticed the pointed looks. They shot equally sharp looks at the women, many of whom found "something important" to attend to and left quickly.

"Songs are sung the world over of the beauty and desire mermaids possess. None tell of the drawing effect of the males of our kind," Aoushlunia noted.

"Understandably," Anna remarked, "as most of the songs are written by men. Also, not many women are sailors, so there is a great lack of experience."

"Your race is not the only one that only receives attention on its females," I added, "Many people do not know there are male Faerie."

The elder aquatics "humphed" and nodded. They told us Thom was being "re-educated" as to what was and was not "fit" to go through the ritual. They excused themselves and left.

We met up with Sarah just before sunset at the outpost dock. Fabian was bidding her good-bye with a light kiss on the cheek. Our eyes followed him as he slid into the water and vanished, a flip of a tail the only sign of his real form. We had to nearly drag Sarah a few paces until she snapped out of her state. She walked beside me, trying to ask, either verbally or mentally, what I saw when they touched. I eased her mind and let her know of their sharing. Her squeal caused many to shoot us questioning looks.

As we had dinner, she told us about the ritual. The "special water" was not actually water. It was a potion that would turn her into a mermaid. While he could not say what questions the gods would ask, Fabian gave her the general idea: Why she was doing this? What was she leaving behind on land? Did she understand this was not reversible?

Sarah prattled on until we laid down to sleep.

Day 343 (321)

Day 343 (321):

As was becoming a habit, I awoke just before sunrise. I felt out as far as I could. Alas, even the reef was too far to feel any one's emotional state. The city, however, was buzzing. Some had not slept all night. Varlan was already up and getting his crew to prepare the Clapper and ship ready. Set and I used our time before the rest woke to work on his breath weapon control and how his barb could be utilized.

Pausing for a moment, I felt a couple of my sisters growing distressed as they slept. Searching, I found Lisa and Gretta having disturbing dreams.

Konfotuta's presence hung over them both. Knowing what to feel for, I detected him at many points all over Arvocan. Fortunately, most of his targets were not in our party and would not be confronting him. Our other companions were awake and concerned. With them and the swords, I saw his sending. As suspected, he was playing upon their fears, secrets, and doubts. The rest, besides my sisters, could wait. Lisa was handling hers but Gretta was not. Sitting on the edge of her bed with our companions and swords encircling us, I entered her dream.

She was back in her home village. Her father, brothers, and most of the town were verbally attacking her. They had cut her hair very short, taken all of her gear, and holding Greed. They were calling her nasty things, what few words I could make out. Around the edges, people were picking up rocks, sticks, and tools. It was time to intervene.

"Stay your hands!" I shouted.

They all stopped and faced us. I stood in my ornamental armor, flanked by the swords in the flesh and our companions. I held out my left hand and brought Greed over to us where he took his place and form. With my right, I motioned to Gretta. She attempted to join us, but the crowd held her back. The image of her father came to the forefront.

"Bitch! This is your fault! You gave her haughty ideas and took her from her place. Stone her!" he ordered.

Gretta was sobbing and overwrought. In mass, the crowd advanced angrily in our direction with rocks and other items. Her father was continuing his accusations as they got closer. I took a few steps forward to meet him.

"Do you think I am a fool? I see who you truly are, Konfotuta. You have spread yourself thin by attacking so many at once. Do you have the strength to fight all of us?"

He was genuinely surprised, causing some of the townspeople to vanish. This revelation got Gretta's attention as well. She ran towards us, plowing through the people, causing them to vanish as well. Greed met her. As they touched, her armor popped into place. She joined me in confronting her "father".

"You coward! Instead of any honest fight, you resort to this? Shame on you. You keep calling us insects, but only a rat would be so cowardly."

He became enraged. All but he disappeared. A very non-human roar issued from this "man". The village disappeared and the gray void returned.

"Again? Once again, you see through my carefully crafted images. Defeating you will be as pleasurable as freeing all dragons from their bonds to all soft creatures."

"We shall see who defeats who. Prepare yourself for our meeting today. We are ready."

He huffed and vanished. I turned to Gretta.

"Wake now, sister, it is over."

I returned to normal perceptions as Gretta woke up. The rest of our sisters were awake and encircling us. We did not need to tell them what happened. We dressed in silence and joined our friends for breakfast.

We could see some of Konfotuta's victims. Tired faces, circles under eyes, slumped postures, and other physical symptoms. Luckily, our party was nearly ignored. We found this a bit funny. With all his skill, experience, and powers, he missed ninety-five percent of our group. Those he had touched were not downtrodden, but emboldened. Plus, having already shared the fears and secrets he tried to use against them, his weapon was greatly dulled.

We all met at the ship. The sea dragons could swim as fast as the ship easily. Tow lines dangled off the ship and from the sea dragons. The aquatics, to keep up, were to hang on to these as we headed to the rendezvous spot. We seven and our companions boarded the ship with Varlan and his crew. Flanked by aquatic riders and sea dragons with terrestrial riders and dragons above us, we headed out to open waters.

We arrived at the spot. Konfotuta was not there. Try as we may, none of us could sense him or the saurguin. All attempts at far-sight were blocked. Many began to question if this was the right spot, the right time of day, and other doubts were voiced. We double-checked and determined everything was as it should be, but our adversaries were nowhere to be found.

"It is a ploy," Eelly finally concluded, "To disrupt our careful plans, he is hiding and stalling. Most likely, he thinks this will unnerve us."

Everyone saw the logic in his conclusion. We felt out for any magical barrier, illusion, or deflection. As expected, a very large area was detected a few miles away from our position. A pulse of anger preceded Konfotuta dropping his shielding.

"Fine, you found us," he sent mentally as he and the saurguin closed to gap between us, "Still, watching you squirm was amusing. I wonder what other entertainment you will provide?"

No one replied. They arrived in mass, the saurguin forming a living wall between us and Konfotuta. They tried to look brave and menacing, but their fear rolled off of them. Eelly shouted to the saurguin that our fight was only with Konfotuta and they could leave at any time with no repercussions. Some motioned as if to go, but Konfotuta's growl made them stay.

"My pets will not be so easily dismissed. They follow me and will fight to the death for me," Konfotuta boldly stated.

The saurguin attempted to prove his words in posture and expression, but their emotions betrayed them. Mentally, we seven sought a way to remove the saurguin from harm as we had not figured them into our battle plans. Sloth, Sky, and Aoushlunia came up with a solution. Puling some power from the lightning items, they opened a "tunnel" in the water that sucked the saurguin out of sight. Konfotuta's mass and the towlines kept anyone else from getting pulled away as well. Konfotuta's angry roar vibrated the water around us. His control was slipping and his living shield was gone.

"Krimmonjor!" he swore loudly, "For this...for this you all die!"

He began quickly gathering his power. The aquatics, through practice, were quicker. A mammoth waterspout engulfed him, breaking his concentration. He struggled to find a stable spot inside the spinning water. On cue, the lightning was unleashed upon the Clapper. It crackled as the energy collected. All of us on the ship felt it coursing over our skin.

Releasing it pushed a fully loaded ship back a full ship length. The waterspout glowed when the energy struck it. Konfotuta roared an unearthly howl that reverberated through all of us. The aquatics released the waterspout and he fell limply into the sea with a tremendous splash. Everyone was still, not wanting to celebrate prematurely. They looked at us, waiting for news of victory or failure.

"He is gravely wounded," I told them, "He is struggling to survive."

Varlan ordered the Clapper to be set up for another jolt. Most of the items on it were charred beyond repair. Held items replaced the damaged ones.

A shout brought our attention back to the water. The pale and battered face of Konfotuta bobbed a ways from the ship. Blood dripped from his mouth as he tried to speak. Many of the aquatics wanted to flee, certain of our failure. Varlan was about to order another charging of the Clapper, but a movement in the water stopped him and the rest of us. The water around Konfotuta glowed softly. This even got his attention. From the light, forms began to float and hover about him. People, aquatic and terrestrial, sea creatures of all kinds, formed a ghostly cloud around him.

"Konfotutatahendron, our slayer, you deny the truth of the Great Dragon as the resting place of dragons," a collective voice spoke aloud and mentally, "Brimagor taught all dragons that it is so, yet you deny it and the real destiny of all dragons. We, your victims, are sent by Lord Brimagor and the Great Dragon to pronounce your real destiny. As you devoured us, he shall devour you."

Gasps escaped our assembly. These were quieted when the spirits spoke again.

"You are cursed. Your soul will know no rest for five incarnations. Upon the fifth, your ultimate fate will be decided. We go now."

The cloud thickened. Ghostly hands reached into Konfotuta's body. Pulling as one, they removed his soul, as ghostly as they, from his wounded body. He screamed a mixture of pain, anger, and despair. After the tip of his tail was free, his lifeless body sank out of sight. We all watched them pull his soul skyward. The blue sky parted to reveal the Great Dragon. Around the points of light, a misty body formed. His mouth opened as the mass approached. With a fling, Konfotuta's soul was tossed into that colossal maw. Gulping, the Great Dragon returned to stars and the sky closed to be a seamless blue expanse. I do not know how long we all stood, silently staring at the spot. A noise brought us out of our trance. Where Konfotuta's body had sank, a torrent of bubbles and foam churned up the water. Our swimmers dove to investigate. They reported that his body was dissolving, bone and all. We waited until it ended before heading back to Arvocan.

It was afternoon when we docked. It appeared as if the entire population was waiting on us. Eelly stood upon the bow of the ship and announced the death of Konfotuta. The area erupted in shouts of joy. They were allowed to shout and cheer for some time. Eelly got their attention. He proceeded to tell them what had happened. When he told of the Great Dragon "eating" Konfotuta, some gasped like our group had done. Others looked confused, not understanding the significance of this. Finished, Eelly dismissed everyone to return to their regular activities. Our group parted to find food and settle ourselves.

Walking into the outpost, we looked at the nest where we had last seen the trio. People parted before us to keep from impeding our trip. In the eating area, likewise, everyone cleared a path for us, even setting down their own food so we could have first choice. The cooks shouted for "the best" to be brought out immediately. No amount of protest would sway them from gathering "the best" for us.

When we sat to eat, an odd thing happened. Our table became an island. A circle of at least twenty feet with only our table was bare. We were stared at almost constantly, but no one "dared" to approach us. Sarah was the most upset by this behavior. She wanted to be accepted by her new people, not be an outcast. She was trying not to cry, but silent tears slid down her cheeks.

"Sarah," I started as I moved to sit beside her, "it is not personal. They need time to sort out their emotions. Look around with me."

I took her hand to let her "see". She gasped at the wild colors and shifting patterns. As we watched, Aoushlunia and Merroc, clothed and with legs, entered the room. They were not conflicted. The certainty they radiated seemed to stabilize the room. Unerringly, they walked over to us, Sarah actually.

"Child, we must ask you an important question. Our grotto is mostly underwater. If you wish to live with us, we need to know if you will perform the ritual to become a mermaid?"

The whole room went silent. Sarah stared at her elders, wide-eyed. The pair stood still. They did not ask again, in case she didn't hear the question. They did not ask if she was alright or understood the question. They did not sit to wait for her answer.

Sarah shook herself and stood, "Yes, yes, I will. I want to be a full member of the clan."

Smiling, the three of them embraced tightly. The rest of the room stood up and cheered, including us. The uncertainty of the rest had calmed considerably at Sarah's commitment to become a true mermaid. Our companions were slightly confused, but understood when we explained. The elders and Sarah sat with us, ate, and told us what was involved in this ritual.

"Far away from land is an island many believe to be the birthplace of all aquatic races. Whether that is true matters not. It is, however, sacred to the Goddess Ocean. There, the gods and goddesses of the waters test the candidate to see if he or she is truly committed to an aquatic life. If the candidate passes, special water is given and drank. Within a lunar cycle, the candidate is transformed into the race that brought him or her to the ritual. Usually, the month is spent saying good-bye to family on land and severing ties to the terrestrial world. You, however have only these ladies to connect you to the land. This tie shall not be severed," Merroc told Sarah.

"Absolutely, Grandfather," Sarah spoke up,"In fact, we have spoken of adding a Faerie door to my home so they might visit me."

The elder aquatics exchanged looks, mentally seeing their home and where such a thing could be placed. Apparently, neither could think of anywhere "suitable" for a door. They, gently, told Sarah that she should not set her heart upon such happening.

Setting it aside for now, we all left to escort Aoushlunia and Merroc back to the water before sunset stranded them. They told us it would take a day or two to set up the ritual. A "tutor" would walk Sarah through the ritual to get her part right. The rest of us were invited to watch.

They and the other legless aquatics retired to the watery side of Arvocan  as the sun left the sky. We looked up as Starlight's first star of evening winked into sight. We seven went to our room as the sea dragons and riders went to their regular duties and the terrestrial dragons and riders decided whether to stay the night or pop back to Demagram.

As we were settling down, preparing for bed, Starlight appeared in our room.

"Greetings, my dears. The Great Dragon sent me to talk to you. He felt clarification was needed about Konfotuta's fate."

"Yes, please," Lisa piped in, "The aquatics and dragons seemed horrified when he was 'devoured'."

"I am sure they were horrified. Please sit and I will explain it."

We all sat to listen to Starlight's instruction.

"Good dragons, when they pass, are taken into the Great Dragon's heart, where the things they learned are absorbed by him to educate the next generation of dragons. Bad dragons are taken into his belly where their experiences are also absorbed. While both have the choice of reincarnation, evil dragon are 'encouraged' to pick reincarnation in order to 'atone' for their evil ways. To be 'devoured' means reincarnation is mandatory after a grueling breakdown of that dragon's deeds, behaviors, and attitudes. Others that have been devoured went back as dragons. Konfotuta, however, will not. His mind and soul will be housed in non-dragon bodies for five incarnations. When the fifth body dies, he will be re-evaluated. If his attitude is unchanged, the Immortals will decide what to do with his soul. For a dragon, five non-dragon lifespans will seem very quick."

"If he is still bad, the Great Dragon won't let him in?" Set asked sadly.

"No, evil dragons are allowed. If he learns the real role dragons have in the world, he might be allowed inside. Should he maintain this 'dragons as rulers' mentality, that will deny him entrance."

We sat and absorbed this information. Set and Echo whined slightly as they huddled against us, feeling very sad that anyone would make themselves inadmissible to such a lofty place.

"How soon will he be reborn?" Alice whispered.

"By late spring or early summer, some newborn babe will be the reincarnated Konfotutatahendron. Which race he will be, I know not."

My heart went out to those soon-to-be-parents. His first incarnation would be the worst. The rage and hatred would be still fresh and raw. They would have a very difficult child.

We thanked Starlight for her information as she left to return to the sky. We finished getting ready for bed and laid down to sleep.

Day 342 (320)

Day 342 (320):

Hard pounding on the door bolted us out of bed. Anna barely had the door open when Sarkin, Corina, and Eelly stormed into the room.

"He's coming!" Sarkin shouted, "He's on his way here, now. Our rider popped back only a moment ago. Konfotuta accepted the message calmly and allowed the rider and dragon to stay while he read it. He was calm until he reached the part about the Soul of the Sea. Konfotuta destroyed the message. The dragon heard him say 'They die now!' before Konfotuta swam off at top speed. They popped back, but it seems he must swim here."

"He's never been here before," I told them, "He can only pop to where he has been before. That is the major weakness with kirlan. After a dragon has been somewhere, they can pop there at will."

"Then, we must go out to intercept him," Eelly barked, "Keep him away from Arvocan."
"It is worth a shot," Lisa said, "Have all riders and dragons, sea and terrestrial, go out to hold him back. The lightning the dragons can produce won't kill him, but it may persuade him to wait until he has thought out his actions."

"Yes, good, excellent," Eelly stammered.

We magicked on our clothes and led them out to the dragons and riders. Having passed on our plan mentally, the riders were saddled and waiting, both aquatic and terrestrial. Extra places were waiting for Eelly and the seven of us. We took off above and in the water.

Konfotuta's rage was a beacon and let us home in on him. We intercepted him on the shore side of the coral barrier. He had paused to vent some of his wrath on the guards.

"KONFOTUTA!!" roared a combined mental and vocal shout.

He stopped in mid-attack to see who or what had called to him. He growled and dropped his prey. 

"Insects! I read your lies. A pathetic attempt to stop me. I will not be denied my destiny!"
"Konfotuta," I sent mentally, "look at me. As one seer to another, look at me and know the truth."

Sarkin and Riptide took me close to him. He swung his head to regard me with one massive eye. I looked into it and fed him everything I had received from the "Soul". When he got it all, Rip moved us back to the others. Konfotuta leaned back to absorb the information. He shook his huge head when he was done.

"I accept this as true. However, my mission is still the same. Brother dragons! Cast off these insects and take your rightful place as masters of this world! Binding yourself to these soft creatures makes you as weak as they!"

The other dragons were speechless. They could not believe what he had said. From nowhere, the three riderless sea dragons charged at Konfotuta, assaulting him with breath weapons, magic, and their physical bodies. He roared at them and fought back. Soon, the trio were gravely wounded and Konfotuta was marked in several places.

"Fools! I could have been your savior! Now, I will be your destroyer! DIE!"

Before he could unleash his power on us, fourteen lightning dragons let loose with all of their might. Konfotuta roared in pain. Cracks appeared in his hide, bleeding into the water around him. Scales fell to splash and sink. When they exhausted their weapons, he looked very beat up, but still able to move.

"How... how is this ... possible?" he panted, "Nothing ... can ... harm me. This ... I must ... there has to be a way."

Kirlan opened and Konfotuta popped back to the saurguin city.

There was no cheering. We converged upon the injured trio. Great cuts, ice burns, missing scales, and other wounds marred their bodies. Their breathing was ragged. Sarah moved to heal them, but we held her back.

"No, Sister, let them go. They deserve their final rest," Eelly told her.

We all stayed with the trio until they breathed their last. Where it came from, I am not sure, but a song came to me and I could do nothing but sing. If anyone joined me, I did not hear them. Before my eyes, spirit forms of the trio rose above the water. Beside them, spectral forms of their riders appeared. Taking their riding positions, riders and sea dragons ascended and vanished into the morning sky. The song left me. In silence, we returned to Arvocan.

Some tried to report the trio's actions, but Eelly told them he already knew. Breakfast was quiet as we all dealt with our emotions. Varlan and the others who had stayed behind waited upon us to fill them in on our activity. We were shown a shrine for deceased riders and dragons. The three pairs' names were being added to a wall that was full of other names.

After lunch, we were ready to focus on our plans to defeat Konfotuta.

"What puzzles me," Sarah piped, "is why he thinks he can't be harmed? Sky cut him days ago. Did he not notice or just ignored it?"

"He may not have associated the cut with Sky. Also, if he heals faster than regular sea dragons, it may have healed before he really noticed," I speculated.

"He noticed that attack," Eelly commented, "Looked a quarter dead when he left."

"Imagine him once the Clapper gets a hold of him," someone said off-handed.

"Do not look for his quick death," I warmed, "Desire can lend great strength."

"Still," Eelly commented, "it is our best option. If he survives, we will jolt him again."

This was agreed upon by the whole assembly.

With that resolved, we went back to waling through our plans.

Mid-afternoon, a saurguin was escorted by two riders and dragons to our location. He radiated fear. Without speaking, he handed Eelly a water-logged board, obviously from a sunken ship. On it was carved Konfotuta's reply to our calling him out. Eelly read it aloud:

"Insects and traitors, your display this morning was fruitless. The electrical attacks proved my power and your weakness. When we meet at the place you suggested, you will see your true weaknesses and fears. You will fail."

The saurguin and his escort were allowed to leave. Many of our assembly muttered curses in response to Konfotuta's words. Most could not believe his arrogance. However, it made those who were not fully committed vow their full heart to his defeat and/or death.

We parted for dinner. Konfotuta's message was the talk of the room. Eelly passed it around so no misinformation clouded it. Many had to be stopped from breaking the board in anger. As we were to meet him at mid-day tomorrow, many not going with us wished us well in our mission. We headed to our room and went through Sloth's exercise to purge this morning's grief and the day's anger to prepare for tomorrow.