Day 124 (102nd):
We were gently woken before dawn. The riders were getting ready. A couple of Raval soldiers told us Kendar was frantically looking for us. We went back with them to a very relieved Keandar. We got on our horses and went where Falcon had said we were to stay. By light, both sides were forming ranks. On their side, we could see things that were definitely not human. Mattis' books said they were low intelligence demons, almost like smart dogs, whom only a hybrid or lesser could control. We saw and heard a few Baalocs getting bitten. Everyone was in place when the sun broke over the horizon. The riders were still out of sight. Leo stood with us. Extending ourselves slightly, we felt the thousand we had called last night. Just as planned, they were spaced out evenly among the rest of the soldiers. We quickly sent the spell to remove the marks to them with the instruction to not say any of it until we gave the word. They confirmed that they understood. Soon after Droland and Kendar arrived at the front, a horn sounded from the Baaloc side. A volley of arrows raced from their side towards us. Clerics and wizards raised hand and they all bounced off an invisible barrier. Both sides then marched towards each other. The demons were eager, but whomever was holding them back kept them from racing forward. When we could feel our sensitive people tensing from getting closer, we gave the word to begin chanting the spell. Saying it with them verbally and mentally, I could see the power seek out its targets. The Baaloc line faltered as those with marks writhed from the sensation of their removal. The unmarked ones continued around their fellows. After seven times through, we signaled them to stop chanting. The power continued to flow all the way to the Baaloc camp. Maalicus might get a twinge, but we doubted even one of his marks would be erased. We, again, quickly instructed them in the hybrid vanquishing chant. Within the first round, the demons were howling and either collapsing into dust, turning into smoke, or bursting into flames. The Baaloc line spaced then regrouped to fill in the holes left by them. A different horn sounded and both sides stopped and were silent. A single rider came out of their camp and rode to the front of their line. It was Maalicus. He rode a few yards ahead of them.
With a magically enhanced voice, he called, "We knew you would cheat! Removing holy words and forbidding holy aid from the heavens, how deplorable! Yet, we are prepared! Behold!"
From their camp, a multitude of winged demons arose to hang above it like a foul cloud. They let out a shriek. Leo roared in response to their outcry. The winged demons made their way towards our soldiers. From behind us, three hundred dragons and riders took flight. Nearly wing to wing and layered, they flew towards the winged demons. Maalicus and the Baalocs watched in shock. Maalicus rode over to one of his mounted soldiers and quickly beheaded him. His voice still enhanced, we heard him say that this soldier had assured him that the dragons were illusions. All eyes were skyward as demons were burnt, frozen, hit by lightening, and otherwise dispatched. Both sides had to move to avoid falling bodies. Either commanded or mutually decided, the remaining demons fled. Maalicus returned his focus to Raval.
"Enough of this foolishness! Sisters, face me if you dare! We settle this now!"
A path was made for us. We were face-to-face with him, surrounded by soldiers and with dragons circling above. He got off his horse and we did the same. Men from both sides took them out of harm's way.
"We shall prove once and for all who's power is greater, the holy divinity of Tharinzar or the foul curse upon this world that is the Seven Swords. Defend yourselves, if you can."
Maalicus began his spell. We said nothing, simply drew the swords. When he released it, it hit our swords and fell apart. Several times he did this, all with the same result. Finally, in a fit of frustration, he ripped off his shirt to reveal the words burned into his skin. Starting a new spell, the words began to glow. The flapping of his dark cloak became more frequent, regular, and intense while the words got brighter and brighter. He released a tremendous bolt right at us. While it did push us backwards, it still broke apart upon our swords. The smell of burning flesh began to rise from him. The marks on his back started bleeding. Several of his soldiers got ill at the sight. Panting, he looked at us.
"Show me... what you've got... demon scum."
Touching all the swords together, we began the spell to remove the marks. Maalicus started screaming. The blood stopped. The burnt smell left. Bit by bit, the marks healed and began to fade. He pressed his hands to his back in a vain attempt to physically hold them onto his skin. A roar from the Baaloc camp drew every one's eyes that way. The demon we had seen in the ball rose out of the camp and stool like a colossal statue. He did not look at us, but looked at someone beside him.
"Your puppet's strings are being cut, Tharinzar. It is time to cast him aside and take an active role in this conflict," his voice boomed, drowning out our chanting, which had not stopped.
"Yes, mighty one. It will be a relief to not have to keep him alive any longer. I can focus on more important things. Farewell, Maalicus, a fitting end to your worthless life," Tharinzar shouted.
Both demons then vanished in a burst of smoke. Maalicus began begging for them to return. Our chant continued to strip word after word from him. Our peripheral vision informed us that Baaloc soldiers were running away, some were ordering them to return. When the last word was gone, Maalicus looked at us, red-eyed and frightened.
"You are truly powerful goddesses if you can make another god flee. Alas, I had not an ounce of your power. Lesson learned too late."
We watched him rapidly age, die, and turn to dust. The signs he had made to mark the battlefield and camp crumbled. Even the most loyal Balloc fled.
Droland held Raval back,"Do no follow them. They are pawns. The Sisters have removed a strong piece, but the game is not finished."
Turning his horse around, Droland headed to camp. Individually, not as an army, Raval returned to camp and began taking it apart. We noticed that nothing was being done on the Baaloc side. By evening, all but a few of our tents were down and packed, extra armor and weapons stowed, and horses rounded together. The dragon riders' pavilion was still up. Cheers followed us wherever we went. We were given small trinkets of thanks. Clerics gave us blessed items and wizards gave us enchanted ones. Our tent was littered with items ranging from braided ribbons and wildflower garlands to gold rings and pearl necklaces. Among it all were papers with marriage proposals on them. We gathered these and gave them to Kendar, who went to the suitors and explained why we could not accept them. Fortunately, no one got angry or really upset about it.
By sunset, our gear was ready to go, we had eaten and settled down for out last night in this place.
Day 125 (103rd):
Dawn broke to find us already on the road home. Tents were taken down by torch and lantern light. The dragon riders' pavilion was gone in short order. They volunteered to investigate the still standing Baaloc camp. We felt towards it and did not feel the presence of anyone in it. Some from Raval made quick runs to and through it to report to Droland that all living Baalocs were gone. Their dead and a lot of personal items were still there.
By nightfall, that place was well out of sight. Falcon and Leo had stayed with the riders. We were still being given small gifts, but no marriage proposals.
Days 126-133 (104th-111th)
The week traveling back was almost a celebration. Every night was nearly a party. The tension was gone that had hung over us on the trip from Raval. We cheered when the flag on the Palace became visible. Even though it was fully dark when we entered the gated, it appeared the entire city was lining the streets. Flowers were thrown in our path. At the Palace gates, Droland made a grand ceremony of thanking and dismissing the volunteers, praising the dead for their sacrifice and honor, praising the living for their duty and service, and praising us seven for our part in removing Maalicus from power over the Baalocs. While he did not specifically say dragon riders, he did praise them as "allies in a time of need". Afterwards, the volunteers went home, the regular soldiers to their barracks, and we to our previous suite in the palace. We slept very soundly.
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Monday, September 29, 2008
Days 122 & 123 (100th & 101st)
Day 122 (100th):
The noise of preparation woke us up. True to our word, we stayed in our tent. Anna and Callie left to bring us breakfast. While we ate, the horns sounded. Sarah pulled her senses inward to avoid feeling any one's death or injury. We ate in silence. The clash of swords, armor, and shields barely reached us at the rear of camp and inside a tent. It took all of our restraint not to go outside and help. Our swords complimented us on our resolve to keep our promise and be true to our word. It felt like we were in there forever. Finally, another horn blasted. We waited until footsteps were heard around our tent. Bursting out, we saw many tired soldiers. Wounded and dead were taken to the clerics. Kendar saw us and motioned for us to follow him. In Droland's tent, we saw the king receiving care for a gash on his arm. We started to apologize, but he stopped us.
"You kept your word. The fight was honorable. Maalicus was nowhere near the battle. Our casualties were lighter than expected. Why I asked for you was to get your views on some things. First, Lisa, is it poisoned?" indicating his wound.
She looked at it closely and shook her head. He gave a sigh of relief. Turning to Sarah, he did not have to ask. She informed him it was not deep and his movements would not be affected. She also said most of the wounded would be fit by morning. This eased his mind as well. He was still for a moment, then turned to me.
"Tell me what you saw around Maalicus."
I told him as much detail as I could. I explained the red bolts were anger, the hard white shell of pride, and the odd random flutters that I couldn't identify. He listened with great interest. When I finished, he asked if I had ever seen Tharinzar.
"Not in the flesh, Sire. Only in visions have we met. There are no glows or cloaks in visions."
He simply nodded. Turning to Alice, he asked for her input.
"Before the rite over the bodies, he was being chastised by Tharinzar. Every ploy; the war machines, undead, and the changing rules, are dictated by Tharinzar, not Maalicus. When they fail or do not bring the desired result, Tharinzar punishes Maalicus. It is he, not Maalicus, who truly rules the Baalocs."
Kendar and Droland exchanged dark looks. They must have thought that before and we just confirmed it. Turning to Callie, he asked about their strength. She said that their confidence left after the war machines were destroyed and many who saw the bodies burning lost what little they had regained the night before and that day.
"The stronger Raval proves to be, the weaker their faith and resolve become."
He was quiet for a moment, then thanked us and allowed us to leave. It was early evening when we exited Droland's tent. Sarah excused herself to go to the clerics' tent. Callie wanted to see how the weapons were holding up, so she left. The rest of us went to the supply carts to help out. We were able to tell the new arrivals from the ones who had traveled with us. The former recoiled from us and were fearful. The latter greeted us warmly and a few showed us their battle scars. As we walked pass, we could hear the new ones ask the others how they could be so friendly with living legends. Many laughed as we walked away as they explained. At the supply carts, the new arrivals were being put to work. Their lives of abuse were obvious from the way they cowered before the supervisors and military. One former Baaloc warrior pushed his way closer and threatened to beat the girl handing him food for being so slow. Half a dozen Raval soldiers set him to rights and made him apologize to the girl. He was pulled off to be taught "Raval manners". We went to her to see if she was alright. I guess the idea that someone cared for her welfare was overwhelming. She began sobbing. Anna took her place in serving the others while we went with her to help her work through her feelings.
Away from everyone, this girl, Marrissa, began spilling out her life story. Turns out, she was a cousin to the royal family of Selvis. She was only a small child when the castle was captured. Maalicus only kept her alive because of her royal blood. Sending a silent request to my sisters, they said I should ask.
"Marrissa, what was the youngest princess' name?
She looked at me strangely, then replied, "Mara."
Looking at Alice, we both smiled. This girl could have been Mara's sister as they looked so much a like. Gretta and Lisa also smiled.
"Marrissa, we have good news. Mara is alive and safe. She if with Alice's father in Thantos."
A fresh round of sobs wracked her thin body. Yet, I could see joy in those tears.
"Falcon, I need a rider to go to Thantos," I mentally sent to him.
"May I know why? Is it very important?"
"Extremely important. Lord Carmon has the surviving princess of Selvis working as one of his maidservants."
Silence.
"Falcon? Falcon, are you alright?"
"Please repeat that, Kayla. I want to make sure I understood you correctly."
"The servant Mara is the youngest princess of Selvis. She is alive and working there. She is our friend."
Silence, for several minutes. My sisters looked worried.
"Falcon? Falcon? Leo, Falcon is now answering."
"Falcon passed out. You girls didn't know this, but Falcon was a protector of the royal family of Selvis. When they died, he was devastated. Only his duty to train dragon riders kept him going. If Mara in Thantos is the same Mara, princess of Selvis, then we may have a new weapon at our disposal. Who told you about her?
"Her cousin, Marrissa, is one of the Baaloc slaves in camp with us. Maalicus kept her alive as a link to the royal line of Selvis."
"A rider is being dispatched. Get Marrissa to Droland now. We'll tell him about Mara. I will meet you there."
"As will I," a groggy Falcon replied.
Taking Marrissa with us, we headed back to Droland's tent. Anna, Callie, and Sarah joined back with us as we went. When Marrissa counted seven girls, each carrying a sword, understanding and fear flashed through her. We did not drag her, but encouraged her to continue. Falcon and Leo stood beside Droland's tent. Instead of fear, Marrissa smiled when she saw Falcon.
"Fa-fa! My mother told me stories about you. I thought you were a child's bedtime story."
"No, Marrissa, I am real. It warms me so to know the Selvis family is not dead."
Droland stepped out. He looked at Marrissa in an appraising way. I felt her fear return. His stern demeanor faded in an instant as he smiled like a proud father.
"Greetings, Lady Marrissa, I am so glad to meet you. We wondered what to do about Selvis when the Baalocs were routed. Knowing at least two members of that family still live, a great weight has been lifted."
"T..two, my liege? Who else is there, if I may ask?" she stammered.
Smiling, he deferred to us.
"Marrissa, who were we talking about earlier? Who's name did you tell us?"
It hit her like a bolt, "Mara! She's alive? I didn't imagine what you said?"
"She has been a servant in my father's castle for many years. She only told us she had fled from a country on the other side of Cassabla. The description Queen Darla gave us let us know her real identity."
Marrissa was speechless. Two soldiers arrived and saluted Droland.
"These men will escort the Lady Marrissa back to the palace. Princess Mara will also be escorted there. When the Baalocs are gone, Selvis Prime will be restored and Princess Mara will also be restored, along with any other family discovered between now and then."
Marrissa was overwhelmed. We and the two soldiers took her to one of the officer's tents. Droland informed him that Lady Marrissa of Selvis would be using his tent for the night. He took a few personal items, bowed, and left. Marrissa was hesitant at first.
"Would you like someone to stay with you? Falcon would gladly keep you company," I offered.
She smiled and barely nodded. She sat down on the bed. We left her with Falcon and walked back to Droland's tent. By the light from there, we saw him beaming.
"When the dragons informed me about Mara and Marrissa, my first thought was that only the Seven Sisters could find a family believed to be extinct. The wonder of you girls never ceases."
"I, personally, have always believed in Fate. It is Fate that Callie and I were born on the same day in the same village, that we found Anna the day before her sending off, plus all that has happened. In this crazy world, that is my constant, Fate," I told him honestly.
Nodding heads surrounded me. With another smile, Droland bid us good-night. We said good-night to him, Leo, Falcon and Marrissa as we passed their tent, plus many others as we walked back to our tent. Food and drink were a welcome sight as we had all forgotten to get something earlier. We ate and recounted the day. Very tired, we nearly collapsed into our bunks.
Day 123 (101st):
The morning was strangely quiet after the noise and activity of the past few days. Those wounded yesterday were recovering well. Marrissa and her escorts set off back to the Raval Palace. The rider returned with news that Mara was being taken to Raval in royal fashion. Tess was going with her as her handmaiden. Before mid-day, the anticipated scroll arrived from Maalicus. It was very large and the carrier had difficulty carrying it while guiding his horse. In it was stated why we had no more arrivals from the Baaloc camp. A "protection barrier" was in place to keep us from "corrupting" Baalocs into abandoning their side for our's. We went to the edge of camp and confirmed a magical field around the Baaloc camp. Also, this scroll, again, accused us of cheating, of being unable to fight and "honest and honorable" battle. Several instances of "foul work" were cited as proof. The soldiers of those instances reported that it was the poor skill of the Baaloc, not anything foul, that was at work. We were given "one last attempt" at a fair battle. This time, before the battle, Baaloc clerics would be inspecting every weapon for any hint of magic of trickery. There was a great outcry over that. We all knew they would "find" something on every weapon and Raval would end up weaponless in battle. For many moments, Raval was in an uproar. I asked to see the scroll for a moment. Concentrating, I felt the emotional residue of the writer. I did not get a cleric, Maalicus, or even Tharinzar. This was someone darker, far more evil, and definitely more powerful. I relayed this to my sisters. Kendar noticed our worried expressions. Pulling us aside, he asked and we told him. Never had I seen him so shaken.
"Can we find out who it is? This could change things greatly," Kendar wondered.
"Find us a wizard's glass or scrying ball," I instructed Kendar.
He took off to search. While he was gone, we discussed our plan. Just as we had called Alice's image with the seeking stone, this scroll would guide us to the writer. In a few moments, Kendar had a blue glass ball as large as a melon. We went down to the empty space between our camp and the dragon riders' area. We called Leo and Falcon to aid us. They, in turn, called a blue and a greed dragon to join us. In that area, the ball was set on top of the unrolled scroll. Our swords surrounded that. We encircled our swords while the four dragons encircled us, head to tail. Kendar watched over Leo's tail. We began the spell to produce an image of the writer. After one time through the chant, the dragons joined in with us. Their voices rumbled the words and created a vibration in the ground and air. Slowly, an image formed. It was unlike the demon form of Tharinzar, but like him as well. When in focus, we changed to see, to scale, the image of Tharinzar as well. To our surprise, Tharinzar only came to the other's knee. This explained the size of the scroll. Falcon suggested a hierarchy layout of this giant, Tharinzar, and Maalicus. As we expected, Maalicus was the least among them. Tharinzar was second and the giant was first. We then asked for a name. At that, the ball exploded into dust and the scroll burst into flames. No name was revealed. Trying to put out the scroll, a shout went out that another scroll had arrived. We went up to camp. This one was normal sized. While it repeated a lot of the first, there was no mention of Baaloc clerics inspecting Raval weapons. This one, however, said that since we would "naturally cheat", all restrictions were off. All magic was allowed, everyone could participate, and we were dared to "do your worst" at the next dawn meeting. The new uproar was one of joy. Wizards and clerics were overwhelmed with requests to enchant and bless weapons, armor, and just about everything. Even dragons were asked. The invisible pavilion became visible and dragons roamed freely as did their riders. Everyone but us seven seemed elated at this news. We worried what the Baalocs had in store if they would allow us this freedom. Kendar and Droland echoed our concern.
"This master demon Kendar told me about must have something to do with it. He must believe he can defeat us, or at least someone over there does. Sisters, find any and all soldiers who can receive your mental voice," Droland ordered.
Joining hands, we sent a call to all the Raval people at camp. We went out just beyond the camp boundaries. When we returned, Droland was looking behind us, wide-eyed. Turning around, we saw about one-tenth of the camp was assembled. I could feel and hear the minds of all of them. One thousand people had heard us. Kendar and Droland began planning with these as to how to use this ability. After a few minutes, my head was spinning. Even Lisa seemed lost. We seven went off by ourselves. Walking around, everyone we saw was still very busy. With Droland and Kendar deep in strategy and all of the humans busy, we sought out Leo and Falcon for help. Finding them was easy, explaining our fears was not. Fortunately, they did not need us to explain. The green dragon's rider, a dwarf, came over and gave us some information.
"The type of demon you saw, the giant, is actually the smallest of a race of demons that are found deep in the earth, were rock flows like water and the very air burns. Tharinzar, as Emerald saw him, is a hybrid, part human-part demon. His kind can appear human at will while the larger ones need devices or talismans to hold a believable human form. The largest aren't even solid, but living shadow, smoke, and flame. The one you saw probably has one of those as its master. It shows your wisdom to fear what the dawn will bring. You are not alone, Sisters of the Swords. Come the time, help will be there."
We thanked him. We sent to Mattis, through Gretta's and Greed's tie to him, a request for any information on these types of demons. He said it would be his top priority. Falcon went to Droland to get the strategy and, hopefully, explain it to all of us. We visited with the riders as he did. They were not running around, enchanting everything. Elves were meditating. Dwarfs, gnomes, and others were sharpening talons, mending gear, and other repairs. Fey, faeries, and the like were mixing potions, grinding powders, and distilling something. This felt right. This was the kind of activity before a serious battle. We even ate with them. Even their rations seemed more palatable that what came from the supply carts in camp. Falcon returned. Slowly, he took us step-by-step through the strategy Droland and Kendar devised. We had to stop him to understand a few points, but, by evening, we had a decent handle on it. Also, around sunset, a couple of books and a scroll materialized near Gretta. A note attached told us Mattis had found something to help us. The scroll has a full body drawing from a dwarven artist of the large shadow/smoke/flame demon. As we flattened it out, smaller creatures were drawn to its side. A note at the bottom said, "To scale, human six foot." The large one took up the entire length of the scroll. The next largest came to his waist. Under it was a symbol the dwarfs translated as "lesser". Beside him, coming just to the second's knee was "hybrid". The last, just reaching the third's waist was "human". We were hard pressed to believe that the one we had seen was a "lesser" demon.
The books had a lot of lore and stories. Only one had any spells to trap or vanquish hybrids and to compel lesser ones to leave. Nothing was found to do anything to the big ones. We memorized the chant for the hybrid and lesser and reviewed the spell to remove the marks. By now, we were very tired. We were invited to sleep at the riders' camp instead of trying to get back to our tent. No tents, no bedrolls, only a blanket, pillow, and dragon bodies. As I said before, dragons are very comfortable.
The noise of preparation woke us up. True to our word, we stayed in our tent. Anna and Callie left to bring us breakfast. While we ate, the horns sounded. Sarah pulled her senses inward to avoid feeling any one's death or injury. We ate in silence. The clash of swords, armor, and shields barely reached us at the rear of camp and inside a tent. It took all of our restraint not to go outside and help. Our swords complimented us on our resolve to keep our promise and be true to our word. It felt like we were in there forever. Finally, another horn blasted. We waited until footsteps were heard around our tent. Bursting out, we saw many tired soldiers. Wounded and dead were taken to the clerics. Kendar saw us and motioned for us to follow him. In Droland's tent, we saw the king receiving care for a gash on his arm. We started to apologize, but he stopped us.
"You kept your word. The fight was honorable. Maalicus was nowhere near the battle. Our casualties were lighter than expected. Why I asked for you was to get your views on some things. First, Lisa, is it poisoned?" indicating his wound.
She looked at it closely and shook her head. He gave a sigh of relief. Turning to Sarah, he did not have to ask. She informed him it was not deep and his movements would not be affected. She also said most of the wounded would be fit by morning. This eased his mind as well. He was still for a moment, then turned to me.
"Tell me what you saw around Maalicus."
I told him as much detail as I could. I explained the red bolts were anger, the hard white shell of pride, and the odd random flutters that I couldn't identify. He listened with great interest. When I finished, he asked if I had ever seen Tharinzar.
"Not in the flesh, Sire. Only in visions have we met. There are no glows or cloaks in visions."
He simply nodded. Turning to Alice, he asked for her input.
"Before the rite over the bodies, he was being chastised by Tharinzar. Every ploy; the war machines, undead, and the changing rules, are dictated by Tharinzar, not Maalicus. When they fail or do not bring the desired result, Tharinzar punishes Maalicus. It is he, not Maalicus, who truly rules the Baalocs."
Kendar and Droland exchanged dark looks. They must have thought that before and we just confirmed it. Turning to Callie, he asked about their strength. She said that their confidence left after the war machines were destroyed and many who saw the bodies burning lost what little they had regained the night before and that day.
"The stronger Raval proves to be, the weaker their faith and resolve become."
He was quiet for a moment, then thanked us and allowed us to leave. It was early evening when we exited Droland's tent. Sarah excused herself to go to the clerics' tent. Callie wanted to see how the weapons were holding up, so she left. The rest of us went to the supply carts to help out. We were able to tell the new arrivals from the ones who had traveled with us. The former recoiled from us and were fearful. The latter greeted us warmly and a few showed us their battle scars. As we walked pass, we could hear the new ones ask the others how they could be so friendly with living legends. Many laughed as we walked away as they explained. At the supply carts, the new arrivals were being put to work. Their lives of abuse were obvious from the way they cowered before the supervisors and military. One former Baaloc warrior pushed his way closer and threatened to beat the girl handing him food for being so slow. Half a dozen Raval soldiers set him to rights and made him apologize to the girl. He was pulled off to be taught "Raval manners". We went to her to see if she was alright. I guess the idea that someone cared for her welfare was overwhelming. She began sobbing. Anna took her place in serving the others while we went with her to help her work through her feelings.
Away from everyone, this girl, Marrissa, began spilling out her life story. Turns out, she was a cousin to the royal family of Selvis. She was only a small child when the castle was captured. Maalicus only kept her alive because of her royal blood. Sending a silent request to my sisters, they said I should ask.
"Marrissa, what was the youngest princess' name?
She looked at me strangely, then replied, "Mara."
Looking at Alice, we both smiled. This girl could have been Mara's sister as they looked so much a like. Gretta and Lisa also smiled.
"Marrissa, we have good news. Mara is alive and safe. She if with Alice's father in Thantos."
A fresh round of sobs wracked her thin body. Yet, I could see joy in those tears.
"Falcon, I need a rider to go to Thantos," I mentally sent to him.
"May I know why? Is it very important?"
"Extremely important. Lord Carmon has the surviving princess of Selvis working as one of his maidservants."
Silence.
"Falcon? Falcon, are you alright?"
"Please repeat that, Kayla. I want to make sure I understood you correctly."
"The servant Mara is the youngest princess of Selvis. She is alive and working there. She is our friend."
Silence, for several minutes. My sisters looked worried.
"Falcon? Falcon? Leo, Falcon is now answering."
"Falcon passed out. You girls didn't know this, but Falcon was a protector of the royal family of Selvis. When they died, he was devastated. Only his duty to train dragon riders kept him going. If Mara in Thantos is the same Mara, princess of Selvis, then we may have a new weapon at our disposal. Who told you about her?
"Her cousin, Marrissa, is one of the Baaloc slaves in camp with us. Maalicus kept her alive as a link to the royal line of Selvis."
"A rider is being dispatched. Get Marrissa to Droland now. We'll tell him about Mara. I will meet you there."
"As will I," a groggy Falcon replied.
Taking Marrissa with us, we headed back to Droland's tent. Anna, Callie, and Sarah joined back with us as we went. When Marrissa counted seven girls, each carrying a sword, understanding and fear flashed through her. We did not drag her, but encouraged her to continue. Falcon and Leo stood beside Droland's tent. Instead of fear, Marrissa smiled when she saw Falcon.
"Fa-fa! My mother told me stories about you. I thought you were a child's bedtime story."
"No, Marrissa, I am real. It warms me so to know the Selvis family is not dead."
Droland stepped out. He looked at Marrissa in an appraising way. I felt her fear return. His stern demeanor faded in an instant as he smiled like a proud father.
"Greetings, Lady Marrissa, I am so glad to meet you. We wondered what to do about Selvis when the Baalocs were routed. Knowing at least two members of that family still live, a great weight has been lifted."
"T..two, my liege? Who else is there, if I may ask?" she stammered.
Smiling, he deferred to us.
"Marrissa, who were we talking about earlier? Who's name did you tell us?"
It hit her like a bolt, "Mara! She's alive? I didn't imagine what you said?"
"She has been a servant in my father's castle for many years. She only told us she had fled from a country on the other side of Cassabla. The description Queen Darla gave us let us know her real identity."
Marrissa was speechless. Two soldiers arrived and saluted Droland.
"These men will escort the Lady Marrissa back to the palace. Princess Mara will also be escorted there. When the Baalocs are gone, Selvis Prime will be restored and Princess Mara will also be restored, along with any other family discovered between now and then."
Marrissa was overwhelmed. We and the two soldiers took her to one of the officer's tents. Droland informed him that Lady Marrissa of Selvis would be using his tent for the night. He took a few personal items, bowed, and left. Marrissa was hesitant at first.
"Would you like someone to stay with you? Falcon would gladly keep you company," I offered.
She smiled and barely nodded. She sat down on the bed. We left her with Falcon and walked back to Droland's tent. By the light from there, we saw him beaming.
"When the dragons informed me about Mara and Marrissa, my first thought was that only the Seven Sisters could find a family believed to be extinct. The wonder of you girls never ceases."
"I, personally, have always believed in Fate. It is Fate that Callie and I were born on the same day in the same village, that we found Anna the day before her sending off, plus all that has happened. In this crazy world, that is my constant, Fate," I told him honestly.
Nodding heads surrounded me. With another smile, Droland bid us good-night. We said good-night to him, Leo, Falcon and Marrissa as we passed their tent, plus many others as we walked back to our tent. Food and drink were a welcome sight as we had all forgotten to get something earlier. We ate and recounted the day. Very tired, we nearly collapsed into our bunks.
Day 123 (101st):
The morning was strangely quiet after the noise and activity of the past few days. Those wounded yesterday were recovering well. Marrissa and her escorts set off back to the Raval Palace. The rider returned with news that Mara was being taken to Raval in royal fashion. Tess was going with her as her handmaiden. Before mid-day, the anticipated scroll arrived from Maalicus. It was very large and the carrier had difficulty carrying it while guiding his horse. In it was stated why we had no more arrivals from the Baaloc camp. A "protection barrier" was in place to keep us from "corrupting" Baalocs into abandoning their side for our's. We went to the edge of camp and confirmed a magical field around the Baaloc camp. Also, this scroll, again, accused us of cheating, of being unable to fight and "honest and honorable" battle. Several instances of "foul work" were cited as proof. The soldiers of those instances reported that it was the poor skill of the Baaloc, not anything foul, that was at work. We were given "one last attempt" at a fair battle. This time, before the battle, Baaloc clerics would be inspecting every weapon for any hint of magic of trickery. There was a great outcry over that. We all knew they would "find" something on every weapon and Raval would end up weaponless in battle. For many moments, Raval was in an uproar. I asked to see the scroll for a moment. Concentrating, I felt the emotional residue of the writer. I did not get a cleric, Maalicus, or even Tharinzar. This was someone darker, far more evil, and definitely more powerful. I relayed this to my sisters. Kendar noticed our worried expressions. Pulling us aside, he asked and we told him. Never had I seen him so shaken.
"Can we find out who it is? This could change things greatly," Kendar wondered.
"Find us a wizard's glass or scrying ball," I instructed Kendar.
He took off to search. While he was gone, we discussed our plan. Just as we had called Alice's image with the seeking stone, this scroll would guide us to the writer. In a few moments, Kendar had a blue glass ball as large as a melon. We went down to the empty space between our camp and the dragon riders' area. We called Leo and Falcon to aid us. They, in turn, called a blue and a greed dragon to join us. In that area, the ball was set on top of the unrolled scroll. Our swords surrounded that. We encircled our swords while the four dragons encircled us, head to tail. Kendar watched over Leo's tail. We began the spell to produce an image of the writer. After one time through the chant, the dragons joined in with us. Their voices rumbled the words and created a vibration in the ground and air. Slowly, an image formed. It was unlike the demon form of Tharinzar, but like him as well. When in focus, we changed to see, to scale, the image of Tharinzar as well. To our surprise, Tharinzar only came to the other's knee. This explained the size of the scroll. Falcon suggested a hierarchy layout of this giant, Tharinzar, and Maalicus. As we expected, Maalicus was the least among them. Tharinzar was second and the giant was first. We then asked for a name. At that, the ball exploded into dust and the scroll burst into flames. No name was revealed. Trying to put out the scroll, a shout went out that another scroll had arrived. We went up to camp. This one was normal sized. While it repeated a lot of the first, there was no mention of Baaloc clerics inspecting Raval weapons. This one, however, said that since we would "naturally cheat", all restrictions were off. All magic was allowed, everyone could participate, and we were dared to "do your worst" at the next dawn meeting. The new uproar was one of joy. Wizards and clerics were overwhelmed with requests to enchant and bless weapons, armor, and just about everything. Even dragons were asked. The invisible pavilion became visible and dragons roamed freely as did their riders. Everyone but us seven seemed elated at this news. We worried what the Baalocs had in store if they would allow us this freedom. Kendar and Droland echoed our concern.
"This master demon Kendar told me about must have something to do with it. He must believe he can defeat us, or at least someone over there does. Sisters, find any and all soldiers who can receive your mental voice," Droland ordered.
Joining hands, we sent a call to all the Raval people at camp. We went out just beyond the camp boundaries. When we returned, Droland was looking behind us, wide-eyed. Turning around, we saw about one-tenth of the camp was assembled. I could feel and hear the minds of all of them. One thousand people had heard us. Kendar and Droland began planning with these as to how to use this ability. After a few minutes, my head was spinning. Even Lisa seemed lost. We seven went off by ourselves. Walking around, everyone we saw was still very busy. With Droland and Kendar deep in strategy and all of the humans busy, we sought out Leo and Falcon for help. Finding them was easy, explaining our fears was not. Fortunately, they did not need us to explain. The green dragon's rider, a dwarf, came over and gave us some information.
"The type of demon you saw, the giant, is actually the smallest of a race of demons that are found deep in the earth, were rock flows like water and the very air burns. Tharinzar, as Emerald saw him, is a hybrid, part human-part demon. His kind can appear human at will while the larger ones need devices or talismans to hold a believable human form. The largest aren't even solid, but living shadow, smoke, and flame. The one you saw probably has one of those as its master. It shows your wisdom to fear what the dawn will bring. You are not alone, Sisters of the Swords. Come the time, help will be there."
We thanked him. We sent to Mattis, through Gretta's and Greed's tie to him, a request for any information on these types of demons. He said it would be his top priority. Falcon went to Droland to get the strategy and, hopefully, explain it to all of us. We visited with the riders as he did. They were not running around, enchanting everything. Elves were meditating. Dwarfs, gnomes, and others were sharpening talons, mending gear, and other repairs. Fey, faeries, and the like were mixing potions, grinding powders, and distilling something. This felt right. This was the kind of activity before a serious battle. We even ate with them. Even their rations seemed more palatable that what came from the supply carts in camp. Falcon returned. Slowly, he took us step-by-step through the strategy Droland and Kendar devised. We had to stop him to understand a few points, but, by evening, we had a decent handle on it. Also, around sunset, a couple of books and a scroll materialized near Gretta. A note attached told us Mattis had found something to help us. The scroll has a full body drawing from a dwarven artist of the large shadow/smoke/flame demon. As we flattened it out, smaller creatures were drawn to its side. A note at the bottom said, "To scale, human six foot." The large one took up the entire length of the scroll. The next largest came to his waist. Under it was a symbol the dwarfs translated as "lesser". Beside him, coming just to the second's knee was "hybrid". The last, just reaching the third's waist was "human". We were hard pressed to believe that the one we had seen was a "lesser" demon.
The books had a lot of lore and stories. Only one had any spells to trap or vanquish hybrids and to compel lesser ones to leave. Nothing was found to do anything to the big ones. We memorized the chant for the hybrid and lesser and reviewed the spell to remove the marks. By now, we were very tired. We were invited to sleep at the riders' camp instead of trying to get back to our tent. No tents, no bedrolls, only a blanket, pillow, and dragon bodies. As I said before, dragons are very comfortable.
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Day 121 (99th) Battles continue
Day 121 (99th):
Before dawn, the camp was a flurry of activity. It was obvious that some had not slept all night. Everyone newly excluded from the battle made their way down to the dragon riders' area. We had found some large metal trays that polished up to make fine mirrors. We found three. Positioning two at opposite ends of our camp, we connected the three so we could use one to look through the other two. This one was taken to the pavilion. By sunrise, both armies were ready. We watched as both armies marched towards each other. No volley of arrows, no aerial assault, no war machines this time. As they got closer together, I felt Kendar stiffen.
"What's wrong? I asked.
"Undead," was all he sent.
Making the mirrors focus closer, we saw not a single soldier was alive. However, the former Baalocs assured us none were the living soldiers from yesterday. Their necromancers kept "a stock" of bodies for just such an attack. We conveyed this to Kendar, who thought and spoke a colorful line of curses. Falcon said that undead were particularly vulnerable to fire.
"Kendar, Falcon says their weakness if fire. Can you set them alight?" I relayed.
He gave the order and sparks flashed among the Raval. Arrows were lit and tossed at the advancing undead. True to Falcon's word, they caught and burned quickly. Still walking, as they felt no pain, many caught fire from walking into, on top of, or over their fellows ahead of them. Raval split to avoid those burning and walking. Setting those not burning on fire, soon the front and flanks of the undead army were on fire. Shields were used to keep them from reaching our camp. Soon, a pile of burning bodies were stacked up near the middle of the battlefield. It took a few hours before the last one was lit and ushered to the pyre. We saw no living Baalocs during this time. Two scouts reported the living Baalocs were holed up inside their tents, trying to be as quiet as possible. We all waited. Just before mid-day, movement was seen in the Baaloc camp. Here and there, heads poked out and looked at the battlefield. Seeing smoke and some flames, more and more began to assemble at the edge of camp. Finally, Maalicus made his way to the front of the assembly. Even though we could not hear him, his movements told us he was angry and probably swearing. He summoned someone with a scroll who began writing furiously. After a few moments, he rolled it up and handed it to a soldier who jumped on a horse and galloped to the battlefield. He threw the scroll at Kendar and ran off before he even knew if Kendar had caught it, which he had. Kendar opened the scroll and read it quickly. He yelled orders and all but a few returned to camp. Looking at the mirrors, he motioned that they were coming to the dragon riders' pavilion. A few minutes later, Kendar and Droland called for the flap to be opened. When they entered, both were red with anger.
"I will spare you the stupidity of this words, but he has accused us of violating his rules and not fighting fair. He claims only you girls or a dragon could have instructed him to do that to them. He claims it is you girls and the dragon who are really in charge. He has sent another set of rules excluding anything besides armor, weapons, and shields, no fire starting equipment, nothing flammable or able to burn, even arrows and bows. Once again, we are to meet at dawn."
The riders expressed their anger and outrage. The place was alight with red. We seven left to ponder any solution to this problem. As we walked, we worked our way towards the battlefield. The fires had burned out and the Raval soldiers had returned to camp. As we stood there, Maalicus and some clerics were slowly marching towards the smoldering bodies. The sounds of horns and drums finally worked over to us. Raval slowly made their ways over to watch the sight. When Maalicus got a little closer, his cloak became plain to my sight. It was very large, nearly double his arm length around his body. The white of pride clearly defined its edge. It was rock hard. Red bolts shot randomly through it to strike the white edge. With it being so dark, I could not tell if any cleric or wizard magic was in him. I did see random pulses flap it occasionally, which was unrelated to his anger. They began some sort of rite for those burnt before them. I wanted to laugh, but I stayed silent. I wanted to tell them that the souls of those burnt were long gone and none of their rite could help or hinder them. Just as this was the first time we truly saw Maalicus up close, it was his first time seeing us. The rite was over when he looked our way. The shock on his face said all I needed to know to show that he saw our glows or something close. With his twisted mind, this probably proved how "evil" we were and our power to "corrupt". As we stared at each other, Leo walked up beside us. Maalicus' expression went from shock to horror. No doubt the purity of Leo's glow, in his mind, showed Leo's depth of "evil". They did not return to their camp in procession, but nearly ran back. We discussed the likelihood of another scroll from him and what madness it would contain.
By sunset, another dozen or so Baalocs had secreted their way to our camp. Only a couple had any marks. We seven told Kendar and Droland we would not watch, listen, or participate in tomorrow's battle in any way. Falcon and Kendar had a decent connection by now so they could discuss any actions that arose during the fight. They accepted. We returned to our tent to sleep.
Before dawn, the camp was a flurry of activity. It was obvious that some had not slept all night. Everyone newly excluded from the battle made their way down to the dragon riders' area. We had found some large metal trays that polished up to make fine mirrors. We found three. Positioning two at opposite ends of our camp, we connected the three so we could use one to look through the other two. This one was taken to the pavilion. By sunrise, both armies were ready. We watched as both armies marched towards each other. No volley of arrows, no aerial assault, no war machines this time. As they got closer together, I felt Kendar stiffen.
"What's wrong? I asked.
"Undead," was all he sent.
Making the mirrors focus closer, we saw not a single soldier was alive. However, the former Baalocs assured us none were the living soldiers from yesterday. Their necromancers kept "a stock" of bodies for just such an attack. We conveyed this to Kendar, who thought and spoke a colorful line of curses. Falcon said that undead were particularly vulnerable to fire.
"Kendar, Falcon says their weakness if fire. Can you set them alight?" I relayed.
He gave the order and sparks flashed among the Raval. Arrows were lit and tossed at the advancing undead. True to Falcon's word, they caught and burned quickly. Still walking, as they felt no pain, many caught fire from walking into, on top of, or over their fellows ahead of them. Raval split to avoid those burning and walking. Setting those not burning on fire, soon the front and flanks of the undead army were on fire. Shields were used to keep them from reaching our camp. Soon, a pile of burning bodies were stacked up near the middle of the battlefield. It took a few hours before the last one was lit and ushered to the pyre. We saw no living Baalocs during this time. Two scouts reported the living Baalocs were holed up inside their tents, trying to be as quiet as possible. We all waited. Just before mid-day, movement was seen in the Baaloc camp. Here and there, heads poked out and looked at the battlefield. Seeing smoke and some flames, more and more began to assemble at the edge of camp. Finally, Maalicus made his way to the front of the assembly. Even though we could not hear him, his movements told us he was angry and probably swearing. He summoned someone with a scroll who began writing furiously. After a few moments, he rolled it up and handed it to a soldier who jumped on a horse and galloped to the battlefield. He threw the scroll at Kendar and ran off before he even knew if Kendar had caught it, which he had. Kendar opened the scroll and read it quickly. He yelled orders and all but a few returned to camp. Looking at the mirrors, he motioned that they were coming to the dragon riders' pavilion. A few minutes later, Kendar and Droland called for the flap to be opened. When they entered, both were red with anger.
"I will spare you the stupidity of this words, but he has accused us of violating his rules and not fighting fair. He claims only you girls or a dragon could have instructed him to do that to them. He claims it is you girls and the dragon who are really in charge. He has sent another set of rules excluding anything besides armor, weapons, and shields, no fire starting equipment, nothing flammable or able to burn, even arrows and bows. Once again, we are to meet at dawn."
The riders expressed their anger and outrage. The place was alight with red. We seven left to ponder any solution to this problem. As we walked, we worked our way towards the battlefield. The fires had burned out and the Raval soldiers had returned to camp. As we stood there, Maalicus and some clerics were slowly marching towards the smoldering bodies. The sounds of horns and drums finally worked over to us. Raval slowly made their ways over to watch the sight. When Maalicus got a little closer, his cloak became plain to my sight. It was very large, nearly double his arm length around his body. The white of pride clearly defined its edge. It was rock hard. Red bolts shot randomly through it to strike the white edge. With it being so dark, I could not tell if any cleric or wizard magic was in him. I did see random pulses flap it occasionally, which was unrelated to his anger. They began some sort of rite for those burnt before them. I wanted to laugh, but I stayed silent. I wanted to tell them that the souls of those burnt were long gone and none of their rite could help or hinder them. Just as this was the first time we truly saw Maalicus up close, it was his first time seeing us. The rite was over when he looked our way. The shock on his face said all I needed to know to show that he saw our glows or something close. With his twisted mind, this probably proved how "evil" we were and our power to "corrupt". As we stared at each other, Leo walked up beside us. Maalicus' expression went from shock to horror. No doubt the purity of Leo's glow, in his mind, showed Leo's depth of "evil". They did not return to their camp in procession, but nearly ran back. We discussed the likelihood of another scroll from him and what madness it would contain.
By sunset, another dozen or so Baalocs had secreted their way to our camp. Only a couple had any marks. We seven told Kendar and Droland we would not watch, listen, or participate in tomorrow's battle in any way. Falcon and Kendar had a decent connection by now so they could discuss any actions that arose during the fight. They accepted. We returned to our tent to sleep.
Days 117-120 (95th-98th) First battle
Days 117-119 (95th-97th):
We had a small town on those plains before the Baalocs even arrived. Even from a distance, I could tell how shocked they were to see us already there, set up, and ready. We entertained ourselves by watching them. They used the same kind of tent as we saw outside our barriers. It was obvious many had never set up one in their life. Quite a few fell down many times before they finally got it right. Their markers became shrines of a sort as bits of cloth, flowers, and other things were attached to them. Even the battlefield marker was decorated. Brave Baalocs ran across the field and taunt us or throw things at us. These little forays went on until dark. I could only guess that the large fires they made were to intimidate us or impress up. Huge bonfires lit up their camp to the point nearly every move they made was visible from our side.
Day 120 (98th):
Sometime in the night, just before dawn, Leo's mind voice woke us up. Taking up lanterns, we made our way behind our camp to a small valley. Before us was a sight that stole our breath. Dragons filled the area. Almost all of them had a harness set like I had put on Leo. Faeries, elves, dwarfs, and some others I didn't recognize milled around in the semi dark. Leo's roar caused all head to snap in our direction. I felt very open and exposed right then. Falcon stepped forward and invited us to join them. Other than our foot falls and breathing, not a sound was made. Falcon stopped us in the center of them.
"Kayla, raise your hand and show them your set," Falcon gently instructed.
Raising my hand, a cheer erupted. They crowded around us, greeting us warmly. As the sun rose, we returned to the camp, being watched by dragon riders, dragons, and the Raval camp. Back at camp, Droland and the others patiently waited for us to clue them in.
"They are the reinforcements. Should Maalicus try something underhanded, they have our backs. As far as Maalicus knows, Leo is the only dragon we have. Until needed, they will stay out of sight."
Noise erupted. Questions assaulted us. Mostly, it was "How can they hide?"
Motioning for silence, we directed them to the dragons and riders below. Signalling them, poles were raised and fabric fluttered. When fully raised, a spark shot across and everyone vanished. Cloth and poles were also gone. Gasps rippled through the Raval camp. Leo appeared out of nowhere. He got to the camp as a horn sounded from the Baaloc side. A single rider crossed the field and threw down a gauntlet at the edge of our area. Without a word, Droland marched over and picked it up. The rider reined in his horse and galloped back. Armor was donned, weapons assembled, horses saddled, and non-fighting people and supplies moved between the camp and the hidden dragon riders. Within a couple of hours, both sides were lined up along the edges of our camps. From our side, we could see a few war machines peeking through their demon armored heads. Droland's instructions were short and simple.
"Get close fast. They are distance fighters and good archers. Up close, they are poor swordsmen. Unless a lot of magic is used, the Sisters stay out of the fight. Men of Raval, are you ready?!"
Cheers of confirmation rose. There was a similar shout from the other side. Arrows filled the air between us and them. Marching backwards, our army avoided being hit by the first volley, barely. Using that as a signal, Droland ordered the charge. Calvary and infantry ran towards the Baaloc line. As soon as the arrows were away, the Baalocs had begun marching towards us. Not one of them ran. The war machines rumbled slower then the men and we could see bulky catapults being dragged by oxen and men. Alerting Kendar, I motioned if he wanted them destroyed. He used his finger and made a motion across his throat and pointed to Leo.
"Leo, Kendar says for you to take out the war machines."
"With pleasure. They are old wood and should burn easily."
Taking to the air, Leo eyed the four hulks. Angling across the battlefield, he precisely fired on each machine. The flame severed the ropes and harnesses. The oxen ran, free of the weight and scared of all the noise and fire. The men fell. They got up quickly and tried to beat out the fire. As Leo had said, they burned easily as well as quickly. Many of the Baalocs were unaware of this event until one crashed after the rope that held it together burnt through and it fell apart. Seeing all four in flames, their marching faltered. Archers shot another volley, but it was not as precise as the first and arrows flew off at odd angles. Fortunately, they had not aimed accurately and only caught a few at the rear of the advancing Raval. Leo landed back with us.
From the rear of the Baalocs, bolts of magic began shooting towards us and the army. The few that reached us hit our swords and vanished. Some men were hit and went down. Around a dozen more bolts shot out and then the magic stopped. By this time, our men were in the thick of the Baalocs. They were, indeed, poor swordsmen. Riderless horses ran wherever there was room.
A loud boom caught everyone's attention. A plume of flame erupted from the Baaloc camp. Winged things rose out of the fire and circled it. We did not need clerics or the swords to tell us Maalicus had released demons into the fight.
"Sisters, it is time," I told them.
Since Kendar was a little receptive, we alerted him as to what was happening. He signaled Raval to retreat. When there was a gap between our army and the Baalocs, we pushed all of our energy through the swords to add to their's. Power arched over the Raval army and slammed into the Baalocs and the demons. The humans succumbed quickly and began taking each others weapons, hitting each other, flinging off armor to embrace each other, sitting or lying on the grass doing nothing, plus other things. The demons resisted at first, then were overcome. Since the Baalocs were the closest, they were their main focus.
Our army stopped when the Baalocs were first hit. Standing in awe, they witnessed the effects of seven very focused swords. Some became ill at a few of the sights they witnessed. We continued until the waves of power reached the fountain of fire. With one last push, the flame was closed off. A horn sounded from the Baaloc camp. Kendar motioned for us to retract the swords' power. Doing so changed little on the battlefield. Both human and demon were too deep in the effect of the swords and three more horn blows went unnoticed. A loud bang and sparks over their heads finally got their attention. Picking up weapons, armor, and themselves, the Baalocs slowly returned to their camp. The demons vanished. Raval returned to our camp. Unfamiliar with the protocol of battle, we asked Kendar what was going on.
"It is not surrender, like a white flag, but he has indicated he lost this time. Both sides will regroup and, either later today or tomorrow, we go at it again."
We understood. Fortunately, our casualties were light. Most of the wounded were healed and sent to their tents to rest. A rider was employed to ferry the bodies of the few dead back to Raval. Meals were eaten and the battle was reviewed all over camp. Eyes kept focusing on us. I wanted to hide, but Droland and Kendar said us in plain sight was good for moral.
During the afternoon, a Baaloc rider galloped across the battlefield and threw down a scroll. He did not wait for it to be picked up before he turned and galloped back. A soldier brought it to Droland. He read it over silently. He yelled for everyone to assemble down by the dragon riders' invisible pavilion. Once there and silent, Droland began.
"Maalicus sent us this," holding the scroll for all to see, "in which he has written his account of the fight we just had. I wanted everyone to hear his words as he wrote them.
"'Your evil Majesty Droland,
By your foul power, you have routed my holy army. Even the angelic forces of Tharinzar were corrupted by the demonic power of the Sisters and their Abyss-forged swords. The machines your accursed dragon set aflame took years to build and, until today, had never been touched by an enemy. When you are defeated, I will have you, personally, rebuild them and more as long as you are allowed to live.
'These are the new rules of this engagement. Soldiers only, no clerics, wizards, dragons, or Sisters. I will refrain from calling the angelic forces of Tharinzar. All forms of magic; amulets, talismans, enchanted arms and armor, etc. are forbidden from this confrontation. This will prove the might of my holy warriors compared to your lazy, perverted, bastard born lot. We will meet at dawn.
Most blessed and holy,
Maalicus'
"While it is obvious he is mad, we will abide by these rules. Dragon riders, dragons, clerics, wizards, and Sisters, you will stay here, out of sight. Kendar will alert you if you are needed, should he go back on his word. If there is anyway you can observe unseen, use that to also watch. Get yourselves ready, Raval. Dawn is the time of battle."
We walked back towards camp. Many were discussing Maalicus' words and his insanity. Officers were talking strategy. At the camp, I felt a stranger, then another, and another. My sisters confirmed they felt these people, too. We signaled soldiers that strangers were in camp. Fanning out, they began searching and telling other soldiers. The intruders were found in short order. Some were Baaloc soldiers while others were obviously support personnel; servants and slaves. They were rounded up and taken to Droland. Before him, they fell to their knees and begged for sanctuary and asylum. He got them to be silent. They seated themselves on the ground. About fifteen in all, they each told their names, posts, and how horribly Maalicus had treated them. They knew the demons were not angelic in any way. None of these had any of the "holy words" on them anywhere. The highest ranked, a lieutenant, told how he had blamed them for the defeat and forced everyone to drink a tankard of sulfur water to "purify" themselves of the swords' influences. Some did not survive the experience and were give as examples of being too weak in body and spirit. One or two at a time, these people, a few women among them, left and secretly made their way over to us. They pledged themselves to Droland himself and Raval as a whole. They were dismissed to be treated and tended by the clerics. As they were leaving, they saw us seven and flung themselves to the ground, begging for our mercy and pleading with us not to harm them. We helped them up and assured them we would cause them no harm. The looked at where our skin had touched their's and saw no mark or change. The looks of confusion explained it to me.
"Maalicus told you that our touch was deadly, didn't he?" I asked softly.
They confirmed. I took the hands of two of them. They jerked at first, then realized nothing was happening. I smiled at them and they relaxed. I let them go and all of them went to the clerics' tent for treatment. I shook my head sadly at one more of Maalicus' lies.
Night fell without event. A few more entered our camp after dark. By the time I went to sleep, thirty-six in all had left the Baaloc camp and were being checked over by the clerics. Only five had even one mark on the demon language upon them.
We had a small town on those plains before the Baalocs even arrived. Even from a distance, I could tell how shocked they were to see us already there, set up, and ready. We entertained ourselves by watching them. They used the same kind of tent as we saw outside our barriers. It was obvious many had never set up one in their life. Quite a few fell down many times before they finally got it right. Their markers became shrines of a sort as bits of cloth, flowers, and other things were attached to them. Even the battlefield marker was decorated. Brave Baalocs ran across the field and taunt us or throw things at us. These little forays went on until dark. I could only guess that the large fires they made were to intimidate us or impress up. Huge bonfires lit up their camp to the point nearly every move they made was visible from our side.
Day 120 (98th):
Sometime in the night, just before dawn, Leo's mind voice woke us up. Taking up lanterns, we made our way behind our camp to a small valley. Before us was a sight that stole our breath. Dragons filled the area. Almost all of them had a harness set like I had put on Leo. Faeries, elves, dwarfs, and some others I didn't recognize milled around in the semi dark. Leo's roar caused all head to snap in our direction. I felt very open and exposed right then. Falcon stepped forward and invited us to join them. Other than our foot falls and breathing, not a sound was made. Falcon stopped us in the center of them.
"Kayla, raise your hand and show them your set," Falcon gently instructed.
Raising my hand, a cheer erupted. They crowded around us, greeting us warmly. As the sun rose, we returned to the camp, being watched by dragon riders, dragons, and the Raval camp. Back at camp, Droland and the others patiently waited for us to clue them in.
"They are the reinforcements. Should Maalicus try something underhanded, they have our backs. As far as Maalicus knows, Leo is the only dragon we have. Until needed, they will stay out of sight."
Noise erupted. Questions assaulted us. Mostly, it was "How can they hide?"
Motioning for silence, we directed them to the dragons and riders below. Signalling them, poles were raised and fabric fluttered. When fully raised, a spark shot across and everyone vanished. Cloth and poles were also gone. Gasps rippled through the Raval camp. Leo appeared out of nowhere. He got to the camp as a horn sounded from the Baaloc side. A single rider crossed the field and threw down a gauntlet at the edge of our area. Without a word, Droland marched over and picked it up. The rider reined in his horse and galloped back. Armor was donned, weapons assembled, horses saddled, and non-fighting people and supplies moved between the camp and the hidden dragon riders. Within a couple of hours, both sides were lined up along the edges of our camps. From our side, we could see a few war machines peeking through their demon armored heads. Droland's instructions were short and simple.
"Get close fast. They are distance fighters and good archers. Up close, they are poor swordsmen. Unless a lot of magic is used, the Sisters stay out of the fight. Men of Raval, are you ready?!"
Cheers of confirmation rose. There was a similar shout from the other side. Arrows filled the air between us and them. Marching backwards, our army avoided being hit by the first volley, barely. Using that as a signal, Droland ordered the charge. Calvary and infantry ran towards the Baaloc line. As soon as the arrows were away, the Baalocs had begun marching towards us. Not one of them ran. The war machines rumbled slower then the men and we could see bulky catapults being dragged by oxen and men. Alerting Kendar, I motioned if he wanted them destroyed. He used his finger and made a motion across his throat and pointed to Leo.
"Leo, Kendar says for you to take out the war machines."
"With pleasure. They are old wood and should burn easily."
Taking to the air, Leo eyed the four hulks. Angling across the battlefield, he precisely fired on each machine. The flame severed the ropes and harnesses. The oxen ran, free of the weight and scared of all the noise and fire. The men fell. They got up quickly and tried to beat out the fire. As Leo had said, they burned easily as well as quickly. Many of the Baalocs were unaware of this event until one crashed after the rope that held it together burnt through and it fell apart. Seeing all four in flames, their marching faltered. Archers shot another volley, but it was not as precise as the first and arrows flew off at odd angles. Fortunately, they had not aimed accurately and only caught a few at the rear of the advancing Raval. Leo landed back with us.
From the rear of the Baalocs, bolts of magic began shooting towards us and the army. The few that reached us hit our swords and vanished. Some men were hit and went down. Around a dozen more bolts shot out and then the magic stopped. By this time, our men were in the thick of the Baalocs. They were, indeed, poor swordsmen. Riderless horses ran wherever there was room.
A loud boom caught everyone's attention. A plume of flame erupted from the Baaloc camp. Winged things rose out of the fire and circled it. We did not need clerics or the swords to tell us Maalicus had released demons into the fight.
"Sisters, it is time," I told them.
Since Kendar was a little receptive, we alerted him as to what was happening. He signaled Raval to retreat. When there was a gap between our army and the Baalocs, we pushed all of our energy through the swords to add to their's. Power arched over the Raval army and slammed into the Baalocs and the demons. The humans succumbed quickly and began taking each others weapons, hitting each other, flinging off armor to embrace each other, sitting or lying on the grass doing nothing, plus other things. The demons resisted at first, then were overcome. Since the Baalocs were the closest, they were their main focus.
Our army stopped when the Baalocs were first hit. Standing in awe, they witnessed the effects of seven very focused swords. Some became ill at a few of the sights they witnessed. We continued until the waves of power reached the fountain of fire. With one last push, the flame was closed off. A horn sounded from the Baaloc camp. Kendar motioned for us to retract the swords' power. Doing so changed little on the battlefield. Both human and demon were too deep in the effect of the swords and three more horn blows went unnoticed. A loud bang and sparks over their heads finally got their attention. Picking up weapons, armor, and themselves, the Baalocs slowly returned to their camp. The demons vanished. Raval returned to our camp. Unfamiliar with the protocol of battle, we asked Kendar what was going on.
"It is not surrender, like a white flag, but he has indicated he lost this time. Both sides will regroup and, either later today or tomorrow, we go at it again."
We understood. Fortunately, our casualties were light. Most of the wounded were healed and sent to their tents to rest. A rider was employed to ferry the bodies of the few dead back to Raval. Meals were eaten and the battle was reviewed all over camp. Eyes kept focusing on us. I wanted to hide, but Droland and Kendar said us in plain sight was good for moral.
During the afternoon, a Baaloc rider galloped across the battlefield and threw down a scroll. He did not wait for it to be picked up before he turned and galloped back. A soldier brought it to Droland. He read it over silently. He yelled for everyone to assemble down by the dragon riders' invisible pavilion. Once there and silent, Droland began.
"Maalicus sent us this," holding the scroll for all to see, "in which he has written his account of the fight we just had. I wanted everyone to hear his words as he wrote them.
"'Your evil Majesty Droland,
By your foul power, you have routed my holy army. Even the angelic forces of Tharinzar were corrupted by the demonic power of the Sisters and their Abyss-forged swords. The machines your accursed dragon set aflame took years to build and, until today, had never been touched by an enemy. When you are defeated, I will have you, personally, rebuild them and more as long as you are allowed to live.
'These are the new rules of this engagement. Soldiers only, no clerics, wizards, dragons, or Sisters. I will refrain from calling the angelic forces of Tharinzar. All forms of magic; amulets, talismans, enchanted arms and armor, etc. are forbidden from this confrontation. This will prove the might of my holy warriors compared to your lazy, perverted, bastard born lot. We will meet at dawn.
Most blessed and holy,
Maalicus'
"While it is obvious he is mad, we will abide by these rules. Dragon riders, dragons, clerics, wizards, and Sisters, you will stay here, out of sight. Kendar will alert you if you are needed, should he go back on his word. If there is anyway you can observe unseen, use that to also watch. Get yourselves ready, Raval. Dawn is the time of battle."
We walked back towards camp. Many were discussing Maalicus' words and his insanity. Officers were talking strategy. At the camp, I felt a stranger, then another, and another. My sisters confirmed they felt these people, too. We signaled soldiers that strangers were in camp. Fanning out, they began searching and telling other soldiers. The intruders were found in short order. Some were Baaloc soldiers while others were obviously support personnel; servants and slaves. They were rounded up and taken to Droland. Before him, they fell to their knees and begged for sanctuary and asylum. He got them to be silent. They seated themselves on the ground. About fifteen in all, they each told their names, posts, and how horribly Maalicus had treated them. They knew the demons were not angelic in any way. None of these had any of the "holy words" on them anywhere. The highest ranked, a lieutenant, told how he had blamed them for the defeat and forced everyone to drink a tankard of sulfur water to "purify" themselves of the swords' influences. Some did not survive the experience and were give as examples of being too weak in body and spirit. One or two at a time, these people, a few women among them, left and secretly made their way over to us. They pledged themselves to Droland himself and Raval as a whole. They were dismissed to be treated and tended by the clerics. As they were leaving, they saw us seven and flung themselves to the ground, begging for our mercy and pleading with us not to harm them. We helped them up and assured them we would cause them no harm. The looked at where our skin had touched their's and saw no mark or change. The looks of confusion explained it to me.
"Maalicus told you that our touch was deadly, didn't he?" I asked softly.
They confirmed. I took the hands of two of them. They jerked at first, then realized nothing was happening. I smiled at them and they relaxed. I let them go and all of them went to the clerics' tent for treatment. I shook my head sadly at one more of Maalicus' lies.
Night fell without event. A few more entered our camp after dark. By the time I went to sleep, thirty-six in all had left the Baaloc camp and were being checked over by the clerics. Only five had even one mark on the demon language upon them.
Monday, September 22, 2008
Days 102-116 (80th-94th)
Day 102 (80th):
When the bells rang, we were already up, dressed, and headed to the garden. Some were there ahead of us while others trailed behind. Once we were all there, Falcon settled in to tell his story.
"My position is trainer of new dragon riders. Unfortunately, I am currently without anyone to train. There are plenty of rider candidates, just no dragons. Maalicus stole our clutch, some sixty-three eggs total. He thinks they are very large gems that we were hoarding. Riding dragons in the shell are unique. They can delay their own hatching until they feel the presence of their riders. As long as he has them, they will not hatch. They have been there for nearly a decade. Here is the deal. Aid us in getting our young back and we will aid you to defeat him and the Baalocs. Even if they are destroyed already, we will still help."
"Falcon, we can see how they fair, if you would like," I offered.
"That knowledge would ease my mind. Please, Sword Sister."
A small pond was not far from us. We all went over to it. Kneeling and encircling it, we seven touched the edge of the water.
"Still water, show us the clutch Maalicus has stolen, please. We need to ensure their safety," we said in unison.
The surface rippled, then smoothed as an image appeared. A large pile of big, smooth, multicolored stones were sitting among other treasures.
"The eggs. That is the clutch. Wait, some are missing," Falcon reported.
"Where are the others, still water? Can you show them to us?"
The image shifted. Three were on a table. One was in a man's hand. He was grinding at the shell. Falcon and Leo huffed smoke. We saw Maalicus enter and begin shouting.
"Sound, please. We need to hear them."
"... idiot! You've been working on them for eight years and not so much as a chip to show for it! Those Abyss-born dragons had more security on these than anywhere else! I want them made into things I can use! No excuses!" he yelled the last over his shoulder and slammed the door.
The man went back to grinding. I felt sorry for the dragon in there. If it ever hatches, the poor thing could be deaf.
Falcon stepped away fro the image, "Do you know where that is?"
"Not yet," we all responded.
Without a word, the image pulled away from the man, out his only window, away from the wall, and revealed a building beside the palace in Baaloc Prime.
"Do I have you word that this building will be one of the first targeted, human King Droland?" Falcon asked in a hushed tone.
"My word, my pledge, and my duty as a king and father. No one's young deserves such treatment," Droland said with a voice thick with emotion.
Falcon gave a slight nod, "Dismiss the image, I can bear no more."
The image vanished and the pond returned to normal. We were all silent for a while. The swirling of emotions was dizzying to me. Servants dashed about our silent assembly, whispering about the new dragon. We were at a loss as to what to say to each other. Falcon would not accept our sympathies. The others, beside us seven, could not see the depth of pain this caused him.
I'm not sure what caused me to turn around.
Facing the palace, a strange sight appeared. I saw the palace in flames. Looking at the others and my sisters, I saw them dead, dismembered horribly, blood coating the ground. Pulling out Vanity, she was rusty, pitted, and all the disks were missing. All of the swords were in similar shape. I closed my fist and saw the ring with the shifting stone. It was still perfect. So were the chain and bracelet. That told me this was a false vision. With that realization, Vanity became pristine in an instant.
"Damn you, girl! No one's mind is this strong!"
Looking towards the voice, it was not Maalicus. Tharinzar stood as we had seen him in human form before returning to his demon self.
"Maalicus wasn't lying when he said you would be a challenge. Many have gone insane from such as I have shown here. Yet, you resist and restore what I have destroyed."
"Tharinzar, this only proves your evil. Maalicus must be insane to believe you are the pinnacle of goodness, truth, and divine power. I have seen your true self. This mask is useless."
With a snort, he shifted to his demon self. He stepped closer.
"Show me your power, then. Make me shiver," he sneered.
I said nothing. Holding the restored Vanity, I swept her across the devastation. The palace stopped burning and returned to normal. My friends and sisters returned to one piece and the living. When I had completed my circuit, the garden was perfect. He growled deeply. Then, everything was gone. We stood in my special room. This made him shiver.
"No, not here! Bitch, how dare you bring me here! He said you were in a room, but not this one. This will cost him."
Tharinzar disappeared. I took a few deep breaths and returned to where I had been standing.
Once my vision cleared, I saw everyone staring at me, even Falcon and Leo. I wanted to hide from all of those looks, but they walked over to me.
"What was that, Kayla? Your sisters said you left, but we saw you standing right here. We called, but you did not answer. Your eyes were totally white. Falcon said not to disturb you as magic was 'conflicted' within you," Kendar quietly and fatherly said.
I asked everyone to take a seat. When they had, I told them. Darla, Margret, Sarah, Callie, Anna, and a few servants who had stopped to listen fainted. Everyone else went very pale. Leo and Falcon gave a shake. As those who had fainted were cared for, Kendar quietly asked if I needed to lie down or something. I assured him I did not. My conscious sisters also expressed concern. By the time everyone was awake and alert again, lunch was being brought out. We spend the meal in silence.
While the servants were cleaning up, a valet presented King Droland with a scroll. He started laughing as he read it. Unable to speak, he handed it to Vangar.
"'To the evil King Droland and his demonic allies:
I, Maalicus, most blessed of Tharinzar, proclaim to meet you on the field of battle on the day of the full moon on the fields of Selvis. Meet my holy Baalocs if you are not too afraid to leave your unholy barriers and face true warriors of the holiest of beings. My soldiers have been recalled to prepare for this grand event. In that place, we shall see who's power is greatest. Bring all of you men and the Seven Demon Whores and I will annihilate you and them once and for all.
Most Blessed,
Maalicus.'"
All of us, swords and dragons included, were laughing nearly to tears. The fact Maalicus believed every word only made it all the more hillarious. When we could talk again, Falcon and Leo flew out and confirmed the camp was being disassembled and the remaining Baalocs were heading back to Baaloc Prime. Droland, Kendar, and Vangar left to begin the process of gathering troops and seeing to supplies. Falcon and Leo took off to "take care of some things". Darla and we seven went with a few servants to attend to what we would need on this journey. Mattis, Margret, and Gavin stayed in the garden to practice. Mamar went to get the cleric support the army would need as well as any willing wizards.
This consumed the rest of the day, except for a meal break, until we went to bed, exhausted.
Days 103-105 (81st-83rd):
The next couple of day were activity dawn to dusk. Soldiers arrived nearly by the hour. The whole city was obsessed with the impending battle. More civilians volunteered and many were accepted. Even with all the confusion, everyone was assembled, geared, and prepared by the end of the second day.
Day 106 (84th):
Bells signaled our departure. They rang longer today than any day we had been here. Leo and Falcon were not a part of the grand procession we made while leaving. People line the streets to see us off. Others cheered from windows and balconies. Passing through the barriers seemed to give everyone strength. By nightfall, we had gotten just beyond the fort. The tower and city were still visible in the fading light. No tent was pitched. We all just laid bedrolls out on the open ground. Under the stars again. It was beautiful.
Days 107-115 (85th-93rd):
A week of travel got us to the border of the old kingdom of Selvis. Abandoned farmhouses and buildings left in ruin testified to the presence of Baalocs in the area. Sheep gone feral were discovered along with a few goats, chickens, and a band of horses. Most of them, save for the oldest, had never been touched by people. Those that followed our parade were welcomed and treated well. We marked the phases of the moon to gauge our progress. By three-quarters, we were only a day or two from the battle area.
Day 116 (94th):
I don't know if Maalicus believed we were that stupid, but he actually had it marked where the battle would be fought. On each side were markers for us and the Baalocs to set up camp. They weren't just flags or small signs with "Raval", "Battlefield", and "Baaloc" on them. Large signs proclaimed the holyness of the Baalocs, Maalicus, and their mission as well as the foulness of us, Droland, and anyone who sided with us. The battlefield marker was likewise huge and covered front and back with the "glorious defeat of the Raval evil, the Demon Sisters, and all things foul" in a battle that had yet to take place. We used the signs and posts on our side for firewood that night.
When the bells rang, we were already up, dressed, and headed to the garden. Some were there ahead of us while others trailed behind. Once we were all there, Falcon settled in to tell his story.
"My position is trainer of new dragon riders. Unfortunately, I am currently without anyone to train. There are plenty of rider candidates, just no dragons. Maalicus stole our clutch, some sixty-three eggs total. He thinks they are very large gems that we were hoarding. Riding dragons in the shell are unique. They can delay their own hatching until they feel the presence of their riders. As long as he has them, they will not hatch. They have been there for nearly a decade. Here is the deal. Aid us in getting our young back and we will aid you to defeat him and the Baalocs. Even if they are destroyed already, we will still help."
"Falcon, we can see how they fair, if you would like," I offered.
"That knowledge would ease my mind. Please, Sword Sister."
A small pond was not far from us. We all went over to it. Kneeling and encircling it, we seven touched the edge of the water.
"Still water, show us the clutch Maalicus has stolen, please. We need to ensure their safety," we said in unison.
The surface rippled, then smoothed as an image appeared. A large pile of big, smooth, multicolored stones were sitting among other treasures.
"The eggs. That is the clutch. Wait, some are missing," Falcon reported.
"Where are the others, still water? Can you show them to us?"
The image shifted. Three were on a table. One was in a man's hand. He was grinding at the shell. Falcon and Leo huffed smoke. We saw Maalicus enter and begin shouting.
"Sound, please. We need to hear them."
"... idiot! You've been working on them for eight years and not so much as a chip to show for it! Those Abyss-born dragons had more security on these than anywhere else! I want them made into things I can use! No excuses!" he yelled the last over his shoulder and slammed the door.
The man went back to grinding. I felt sorry for the dragon in there. If it ever hatches, the poor thing could be deaf.
Falcon stepped away fro the image, "Do you know where that is?"
"Not yet," we all responded.
Without a word, the image pulled away from the man, out his only window, away from the wall, and revealed a building beside the palace in Baaloc Prime.
"Do I have you word that this building will be one of the first targeted, human King Droland?" Falcon asked in a hushed tone.
"My word, my pledge, and my duty as a king and father. No one's young deserves such treatment," Droland said with a voice thick with emotion.
Falcon gave a slight nod, "Dismiss the image, I can bear no more."
The image vanished and the pond returned to normal. We were all silent for a while. The swirling of emotions was dizzying to me. Servants dashed about our silent assembly, whispering about the new dragon. We were at a loss as to what to say to each other. Falcon would not accept our sympathies. The others, beside us seven, could not see the depth of pain this caused him.
I'm not sure what caused me to turn around.
Facing the palace, a strange sight appeared. I saw the palace in flames. Looking at the others and my sisters, I saw them dead, dismembered horribly, blood coating the ground. Pulling out Vanity, she was rusty, pitted, and all the disks were missing. All of the swords were in similar shape. I closed my fist and saw the ring with the shifting stone. It was still perfect. So were the chain and bracelet. That told me this was a false vision. With that realization, Vanity became pristine in an instant.
"Damn you, girl! No one's mind is this strong!"
Looking towards the voice, it was not Maalicus. Tharinzar stood as we had seen him in human form before returning to his demon self.
"Maalicus wasn't lying when he said you would be a challenge. Many have gone insane from such as I have shown here. Yet, you resist and restore what I have destroyed."
"Tharinzar, this only proves your evil. Maalicus must be insane to believe you are the pinnacle of goodness, truth, and divine power. I have seen your true self. This mask is useless."
With a snort, he shifted to his demon self. He stepped closer.
"Show me your power, then. Make me shiver," he sneered.
I said nothing. Holding the restored Vanity, I swept her across the devastation. The palace stopped burning and returned to normal. My friends and sisters returned to one piece and the living. When I had completed my circuit, the garden was perfect. He growled deeply. Then, everything was gone. We stood in my special room. This made him shiver.
"No, not here! Bitch, how dare you bring me here! He said you were in a room, but not this one. This will cost him."
Tharinzar disappeared. I took a few deep breaths and returned to where I had been standing.
Once my vision cleared, I saw everyone staring at me, even Falcon and Leo. I wanted to hide from all of those looks, but they walked over to me.
"What was that, Kayla? Your sisters said you left, but we saw you standing right here. We called, but you did not answer. Your eyes were totally white. Falcon said not to disturb you as magic was 'conflicted' within you," Kendar quietly and fatherly said.
I asked everyone to take a seat. When they had, I told them. Darla, Margret, Sarah, Callie, Anna, and a few servants who had stopped to listen fainted. Everyone else went very pale. Leo and Falcon gave a shake. As those who had fainted were cared for, Kendar quietly asked if I needed to lie down or something. I assured him I did not. My conscious sisters also expressed concern. By the time everyone was awake and alert again, lunch was being brought out. We spend the meal in silence.
While the servants were cleaning up, a valet presented King Droland with a scroll. He started laughing as he read it. Unable to speak, he handed it to Vangar.
"'To the evil King Droland and his demonic allies:
I, Maalicus, most blessed of Tharinzar, proclaim to meet you on the field of battle on the day of the full moon on the fields of Selvis. Meet my holy Baalocs if you are not too afraid to leave your unholy barriers and face true warriors of the holiest of beings. My soldiers have been recalled to prepare for this grand event. In that place, we shall see who's power is greatest. Bring all of you men and the Seven Demon Whores and I will annihilate you and them once and for all.
Most Blessed,
Maalicus.'"
All of us, swords and dragons included, were laughing nearly to tears. The fact Maalicus believed every word only made it all the more hillarious. When we could talk again, Falcon and Leo flew out and confirmed the camp was being disassembled and the remaining Baalocs were heading back to Baaloc Prime. Droland, Kendar, and Vangar left to begin the process of gathering troops and seeing to supplies. Falcon and Leo took off to "take care of some things". Darla and we seven went with a few servants to attend to what we would need on this journey. Mattis, Margret, and Gavin stayed in the garden to practice. Mamar went to get the cleric support the army would need as well as any willing wizards.
This consumed the rest of the day, except for a meal break, until we went to bed, exhausted.
Days 103-105 (81st-83rd):
The next couple of day were activity dawn to dusk. Soldiers arrived nearly by the hour. The whole city was obsessed with the impending battle. More civilians volunteered and many were accepted. Even with all the confusion, everyone was assembled, geared, and prepared by the end of the second day.
Day 106 (84th):
Bells signaled our departure. They rang longer today than any day we had been here. Leo and Falcon were not a part of the grand procession we made while leaving. People line the streets to see us off. Others cheered from windows and balconies. Passing through the barriers seemed to give everyone strength. By nightfall, we had gotten just beyond the fort. The tower and city were still visible in the fading light. No tent was pitched. We all just laid bedrolls out on the open ground. Under the stars again. It was beautiful.
Days 107-115 (85th-93rd):
A week of travel got us to the border of the old kingdom of Selvis. Abandoned farmhouses and buildings left in ruin testified to the presence of Baalocs in the area. Sheep gone feral were discovered along with a few goats, chickens, and a band of horses. Most of them, save for the oldest, had never been touched by people. Those that followed our parade were welcomed and treated well. We marked the phases of the moon to gauge our progress. By three-quarters, we were only a day or two from the battle area.
Day 116 (94th):
I don't know if Maalicus believed we were that stupid, but he actually had it marked where the battle would be fought. On each side were markers for us and the Baalocs to set up camp. They weren't just flags or small signs with "Raval", "Battlefield", and "Baaloc" on them. Large signs proclaimed the holyness of the Baalocs, Maalicus, and their mission as well as the foulness of us, Droland, and anyone who sided with us. The battlefield marker was likewise huge and covered front and back with the "glorious defeat of the Raval evil, the Demon Sisters, and all things foul" in a battle that had yet to take place. We used the signs and posts on our side for firewood that night.
Saturday, September 20, 2008
Days 96-101 (74th-79th)
Days 96-100 (74th-78th):
It was a few days before our barriers were tested. It began with sporadic arrivals of civilians who said they were fleeing from Baaloc raiders and invasions. Soon, they became waves of people spilling into the city, mainly from the east, away from Baaloc Prime. Sprinkled among these refugees were people who could not get pass either the first or the second barriers. In nearly every case, they were working for the Baalocs as spies or were Baaloc clerics trying to preach the Baaloc faith to the refugees. These people were held at the fort. Some, however, did not survive their encounter with the barriers. A few were found to be undead who's power was drained by passing through the positive magic of each set.
Day 101 (79th):
The barriers were really tested about a week after their construction. A platoon of two thousand rode over the hill just after dawn and headed straight towards the city. Leo had alerted us to their presence when he saw them while he was out flying. We seven, the Royal Family, and many others watched their advance from the main tower. As we watched, they stopped just outside of the first barrier. Scouts were sent ahead to feel it out. Many hit the first like a stone wall, unable to even pass through it. Some died, hitting it over and over again until they collapsed. Sarah was too far away to feel their passing. Some made it, weakly, to the second. There, too, some died. No scout crossed the second. Only a handful returned out of the several dozen sent. Baaloc wizards and clerics tried dispelling the barriers. This was where the cooperation paid off. Against such diversity, their narrow focus did little to the barriers. All they managed was weakening one point in the first. Even so, a large portion did not make it through it. Those that did walked as if they had instantly gained a hundred pounds. Some did not change how they moved. A harder look showed those were undead. At the second, Baaloc clerics and wizards tried again. Still, the variety of specialties who erected it proved to be its strength. Layers were peeled, but it remained intact. Only animals crossed this one. The wizards informed us that they were magically compelled or undead. They stopped at the third. The living ones snapped out of their compulsion and the undead just dropped. Some soldiers and citizens ran out and grabbed the newly released animals, mostly horses, cows, dogs, and pigs. Out of desperation, the Baalocs retreated beyond the first barrier and began an aerial assault. Clerics and wizards shot magic towards the city. Flying over the first easily, some of the lower ones clipped the top of the second. However, even the highest ones barely topped the third and none topped the fourth. Carts set aflame and pushed or pulled towards the city never made it. Between the distance from them to us, the flatness of the terrain, and the fact any animal forced to pull it stopped at the third, it proved to be a useless tactic.
By nightfall, what remained of the two thousand set up camp. From the few fires we could see, less than half were still fit and able.
"Leo, you can see in the dark, right?" I mentally asked him.
"Yes, I have excellent night vision, why do you ask?"
"My sight lets me see them in the dark. Their cloaks and glows have a shine at night. I could get an accurate count if you fly me over them."
Mental and verbal arguments assailed upon me. When the noise died down, I assured them we would be safe, "It is dark, no moon, and they are exhausted. One trip, out and back. We can stay as high as this tower," I told them.
"Correct," Leo added, "besides, I can keep them from seeing us. I am not without my defenses."
Everyone, eventually, agreed to let us go. I met Leo in the garden. He asked if I was still wearing my gift from the Faerie Queen. I told him I was. He bent his head down and instructed me to place the hand it was on in the middle of his forehead. Upon doing so, the ring expanded and became a band around Leo's head. The chain grew in width and length. When it got about an inch wide, it became two chains. The bracelet also grew and became a belt-like affair around Leo's wings, allowing them to move freely. At his back, a saddle grew. When it was finished, Leo was wearing a dragon-sized tack, saddle, and chain reins. Kneeling, he told me to hop on. As if this were the most natural thing in the world, I smoothly made my way up his body and into the saddle. Before I could ask, a flood of information rolled into my mind.
"You devious scoundrel! You and she knew this whole time!" I playfully scolded Leo.
A chuckle rippled through him, "The Faerie Queen's son was a dragon rider. Many Faerie are. The set she gave you is a standard set for beginning riders. When you are more skilled, you can personalize it to your or your dragon's tastes. Now, are you ready to fly?"
Grinning widely, I shouted, "YES!"
Within three wing beats, we were airborne. A circle around the tower let everyone know we were on our way. Crossing the distance in minutes, I looked down at the Baaloc camp. There were, at most, five people per fire. The thousand we thought were left was actually barely over five hundred. From their presence, I could tell most were very weak. I nearly felt sorry for them. We turned back to the castle. Not in any hurry, Leo leisurely flew, rising, diving, moving this way and that.
Just as we approached the castle, I heard wings, large ones.
"Fear not, Kayla. That is a friend," Leo reassured me.
"Allies for now, friends later, Mars-in-Leo," came a surly response from the darkness.
"Might I have the honor of knowing who is speaking?" I asked politely.
"You may address me as Falcon-with-flaming-eyes. I will accept Falcon," the voice responded in the same surly tone.
"Welcome, Falcon-with-flaming-eyes. Allies and potential friends are always welcome here," I said cordially.
The voice huffed and we circled the tower.
Landing in the garden, I got to see the body belonging to the voice. A golden-toned dragon lighted smoothly in the lit garden. He was enormous! The top of Leo's head barely reached Falcon's bottom jaw. One of his wings was as long as both of Leo's. Fortunately, the royal garden was such a huge place that he had room to move around, even with both of them there. The others and my sisters arrived to see me in the presence of two dragons. I had already reclaimed my ring-chain-bracelet set and there was no sign it had ever been anything else. Everyone stared.
"Everyone, this if Falcon-with-flaming-eyes. He will also accept Falcon," I told them. Then, I went down the line and introduced everyone.
"Nice to meet all of you," he replied formally when I was done, "I have travel far and wish to rest. The purpose of my arrival can wait until morning. Leo, where is a good spot to sleep?"
Leo and Falcon went off to a secluded spot while the rest of us went back inside to our own rooms. I let my sisters share my experience. A few begged me never to do that again.
It was a few days before our barriers were tested. It began with sporadic arrivals of civilians who said they were fleeing from Baaloc raiders and invasions. Soon, they became waves of people spilling into the city, mainly from the east, away from Baaloc Prime. Sprinkled among these refugees were people who could not get pass either the first or the second barriers. In nearly every case, they were working for the Baalocs as spies or were Baaloc clerics trying to preach the Baaloc faith to the refugees. These people were held at the fort. Some, however, did not survive their encounter with the barriers. A few were found to be undead who's power was drained by passing through the positive magic of each set.
Day 101 (79th):
The barriers were really tested about a week after their construction. A platoon of two thousand rode over the hill just after dawn and headed straight towards the city. Leo had alerted us to their presence when he saw them while he was out flying. We seven, the Royal Family, and many others watched their advance from the main tower. As we watched, they stopped just outside of the first barrier. Scouts were sent ahead to feel it out. Many hit the first like a stone wall, unable to even pass through it. Some died, hitting it over and over again until they collapsed. Sarah was too far away to feel their passing. Some made it, weakly, to the second. There, too, some died. No scout crossed the second. Only a handful returned out of the several dozen sent. Baaloc wizards and clerics tried dispelling the barriers. This was where the cooperation paid off. Against such diversity, their narrow focus did little to the barriers. All they managed was weakening one point in the first. Even so, a large portion did not make it through it. Those that did walked as if they had instantly gained a hundred pounds. Some did not change how they moved. A harder look showed those were undead. At the second, Baaloc clerics and wizards tried again. Still, the variety of specialties who erected it proved to be its strength. Layers were peeled, but it remained intact. Only animals crossed this one. The wizards informed us that they were magically compelled or undead. They stopped at the third. The living ones snapped out of their compulsion and the undead just dropped. Some soldiers and citizens ran out and grabbed the newly released animals, mostly horses, cows, dogs, and pigs. Out of desperation, the Baalocs retreated beyond the first barrier and began an aerial assault. Clerics and wizards shot magic towards the city. Flying over the first easily, some of the lower ones clipped the top of the second. However, even the highest ones barely topped the third and none topped the fourth. Carts set aflame and pushed or pulled towards the city never made it. Between the distance from them to us, the flatness of the terrain, and the fact any animal forced to pull it stopped at the third, it proved to be a useless tactic.
By nightfall, what remained of the two thousand set up camp. From the few fires we could see, less than half were still fit and able.
"Leo, you can see in the dark, right?" I mentally asked him.
"Yes, I have excellent night vision, why do you ask?"
"My sight lets me see them in the dark. Their cloaks and glows have a shine at night. I could get an accurate count if you fly me over them."
Mental and verbal arguments assailed upon me. When the noise died down, I assured them we would be safe, "It is dark, no moon, and they are exhausted. One trip, out and back. We can stay as high as this tower," I told them.
"Correct," Leo added, "besides, I can keep them from seeing us. I am not without my defenses."
Everyone, eventually, agreed to let us go. I met Leo in the garden. He asked if I was still wearing my gift from the Faerie Queen. I told him I was. He bent his head down and instructed me to place the hand it was on in the middle of his forehead. Upon doing so, the ring expanded and became a band around Leo's head. The chain grew in width and length. When it got about an inch wide, it became two chains. The bracelet also grew and became a belt-like affair around Leo's wings, allowing them to move freely. At his back, a saddle grew. When it was finished, Leo was wearing a dragon-sized tack, saddle, and chain reins. Kneeling, he told me to hop on. As if this were the most natural thing in the world, I smoothly made my way up his body and into the saddle. Before I could ask, a flood of information rolled into my mind.
"You devious scoundrel! You and she knew this whole time!" I playfully scolded Leo.
A chuckle rippled through him, "The Faerie Queen's son was a dragon rider. Many Faerie are. The set she gave you is a standard set for beginning riders. When you are more skilled, you can personalize it to your or your dragon's tastes. Now, are you ready to fly?"
Grinning widely, I shouted, "YES!"
Within three wing beats, we were airborne. A circle around the tower let everyone know we were on our way. Crossing the distance in minutes, I looked down at the Baaloc camp. There were, at most, five people per fire. The thousand we thought were left was actually barely over five hundred. From their presence, I could tell most were very weak. I nearly felt sorry for them. We turned back to the castle. Not in any hurry, Leo leisurely flew, rising, diving, moving this way and that.
Just as we approached the castle, I heard wings, large ones.
"Fear not, Kayla. That is a friend," Leo reassured me.
"Allies for now, friends later, Mars-in-Leo," came a surly response from the darkness.
"Might I have the honor of knowing who is speaking?" I asked politely.
"You may address me as Falcon-with-flaming-eyes. I will accept Falcon," the voice responded in the same surly tone.
"Welcome, Falcon-with-flaming-eyes. Allies and potential friends are always welcome here," I said cordially.
The voice huffed and we circled the tower.
Landing in the garden, I got to see the body belonging to the voice. A golden-toned dragon lighted smoothly in the lit garden. He was enormous! The top of Leo's head barely reached Falcon's bottom jaw. One of his wings was as long as both of Leo's. Fortunately, the royal garden was such a huge place that he had room to move around, even with both of them there. The others and my sisters arrived to see me in the presence of two dragons. I had already reclaimed my ring-chain-bracelet set and there was no sign it had ever been anything else. Everyone stared.
"Everyone, this if Falcon-with-flaming-eyes. He will also accept Falcon," I told them. Then, I went down the line and introduced everyone.
"Nice to meet all of you," he replied formally when I was done, "I have travel far and wish to rest. The purpose of my arrival can wait until morning. Leo, where is a good spot to sleep?"
Leo and Falcon went off to a secluded spot while the rest of us went back inside to our own rooms. I let my sisters share my experience. A few begged me never to do that again.
Days 92-95 (70th-73rd)
Day 92 (70th):
I was back in the room where I had met Breanne and the others. Wondering why, Vanity appeared beside me.
"Why are we here? Did you bring us here?" I asked her.
"Not I, Kayla. Since you are asking, I am betting you didn't either."
Shaking my head, we looked around. From a dark corner, a deep male laugh echoed. Focusing on the sound, we saw him walk out of the shadows.
"You are not the one I was trying for, but one is as good as the other," Maalicus said in an off-handed manner. He stood less than arm's length from me. Then, he looked at Vanity.
"You are not a Sister. Who are you? From your appearance, you are not human. So, demon bitch, who are you?"
Vanity stepped forward to face him, "I am Vanity. I am one of the swords. I am her partner and friend."
Maalicus looked at her closer. A look of disgust and hatred darkened his already dark expression.
"I knew the swords were evil, but this is unbelievable. So, soulless demons inhabit the swords. Fouler than I thought. Girl, cast aside this abomination and embrace the true faith. It is never too late."
I was appalled! How dare he speak about Vanity that way. I looked at her and saw the hurt in her face.
"Maalicus, your words are dull daggers! Vanity is no demon. She is my friend. I could no more get rid of her than I could my heart. You are the one who follows a demon. Tharinzar is the only demon in this conflict."
Before I could react, he slapped me.
"Bitch! How dare you call the true god of all a demon! I will defeat you and all of your stupid followers. Then, you will kneel and beg for the holy words to be carved upon your foul hide. I will make you beg after you have serviced me like the whore you are."
It was my turn to slap him, hard. Apparently no woman had ever stood up to him. For a moment, he was speechless. His eyes darted between the two of us. Then, he started chanting. Small demons appeared around him. He smiled evilly.
"Behold! Holy hands of the true god. Bow or die! This is your only chance."
Vanity and I stepped closer together. For a second, I was terrified. Then, I remembered where we were and who had been here before. My memory served as a summons. Breanne, Claire, and everyone else in between appeared beside us. Maalicus took a step back.
"YOU! Goddess who forged the swords! She is your servant then. I will be truly blessed to defeat you. Tharinzar will grant me godhood!" Maalicus gloated.
We said nothing. Clasping hands, we formed a powerful bond. The demons rushed at us. Not a single one touched us. The aura of our power was such as they vanished before reaching us. Maalicus roared when the last vanished.
"Damn you all! I will defeat you and the power will be mine! Damn you!"
He retreated into the shadows and disappeared. Facing each other, we smiled. With just a nod, I awoke.
It was still dark. I went to the balcony and saw the sky just beginning to get light. I felt for Leo or Mattis. Fortunately, Leo was awake.
"Leo, I need to talk to you."
"Kayla? What is it? You sound troubled."
"Maalicus visited me in my sleep. He attacked me and Vanity."
"He did what?! The gall of him. Tell me everything."
Both Vanity and I told him the whole encounter. Even at a distance, I could feel his anger rise during the telling. Also, my sisters roused and I had to retell parts. Finishing, we all sat to ponder this event.
"Who do you think he was after? You don't think he was still after Sarah?" Lisa speculated.
Sarah gasped, "Even with Abigail dead? Am I such an easy target? I am not weak, am I?"
"You are not weak!" we all responded together, even Leo.
"Then, what, why me?"
"It may be your age. He may think, as the youngest, you are the most vulnerable," Callie added.
"That is plausible. Someone as old as Maalicus may see youth as a weakness. However, now that you have each become more like your ancestors, Kayla is most likely to receive any mental message. Sarah, as part mermaid, can probably send farther or clearer, but Kayla is the most receptive." Leo informed us.
Sarah relaxed, knowing her vulnerability was not in question.
"He still believes Breanne and the first sisters were goddesses and Tharinzar is the true god of all. How can he be so deluded? He called those little demons 'holy hands'. I think he is insane," I stated.
"Obviously," everyone else chimed in.
The bells interrupted us. I felt Mattis approach our door. With a nudge, I opened the door before he could knock.
"How foolish of me to think I could arrive undetected," he said to cover his embarrassment. Looking at us, his smile fled, "I felt you this morning, but I wasn't fully awake. What is going on?"
We told him. He sat heavily into a chair. Silence reigned for several minutes. The servants arrived during the silence. Mattis rose after they left.
"The king must be told. I will spare you from telling it again. However, they may want to question you. I will let you know if they do."
With a slight bow, he left. We were sad that the king had to wake up to such information.
After eating, we went out on the balcony and watched the city begin its day.
Before long, Dorland, Mattis, Mamar, and Kendar stormed into our room. Flushed with anger and exertion, they panicked slightly until they saw us on the balcony. Kendar actually came over to me and wrapped me in a tight embrace.
"Child, are you well? No damage, I hope," he said as he looked me over.
"I am fine, Kendar. He alone is no match for a dozen generations of guardians and Vanity. Besides, he relies too heavily on his demon 'holy hands', even if they were real."
"Explain, please."
"Upon reviewing our encounter, I noticed that the little demons were identical, to the last detail. That only means whomever was projecting those images had only one demon as a model. Maalicus is a user. He would never use his own power when many of his followers would do anything for him. Abigail, Holly, the Bishop, General Barvann, and many more have died for him. He would not risk his own power when their's are available."
Everyone agreed. The men paced. I could tell they felt helpless. Deferring to us did not help matters. An idea came to me and went to my sisters but a second later.
"Mattis, Mamar, there is something we can do. Barriers around the town, arcane and divine. Get Margret and Gavin, they are linked to this land. Call every cleric of every faith. We are going to set up enough lines of defense so that no Baaloc, demon or human, can even touch this city or palace."
Everyone perked up immediately. We coordinated it.
By mid-day, we were set. Starting at the fort outside the city, we set up "power poles" in every direction. Poles were planted in a square around the city every couple of miles. The first set, fort distance around, was blessed by every faith not in tune with the Baaloc faith. It would deter only the weakest of the Baalocs but serve as an intruder alarm. A few miles toward the city, another set was erected. This was charmed by wizards of every type, even necromancers. This was also only for the weakest, but it would alert us to undead and non-humans. Another few miles in, another set. For this set, Leo was the key. Using dragon magic, he made each deter all magical creatures. Anything weaker than a dragon could not pass. The fourth and closest set, wizards, clerics, Leo, and we seven charged to keep out everything that intended to damage the city or harm its people and everything in it.
Days 93-95 (71st-73rd):
It took a couple of days to accomplish this task. Droland commented that he had never seen or heard of so many different people of different faiths, specialties, and cultures coming together for one purpose. From the main tower, I could see the magic of each set. While all the poles were the same height, each extended higher than the previous with the last being higher than even the main tower of the palace. Also, the kinds of magic was visible to me. Cleric yellow, wizard blue, dragon shimmer, and the rainbow of us seven. While each set was not smooth or consistent, they were solid, with no holes or gaps.
I was back in the room where I had met Breanne and the others. Wondering why, Vanity appeared beside me.
"Why are we here? Did you bring us here?" I asked her.
"Not I, Kayla. Since you are asking, I am betting you didn't either."
Shaking my head, we looked around. From a dark corner, a deep male laugh echoed. Focusing on the sound, we saw him walk out of the shadows.
"You are not the one I was trying for, but one is as good as the other," Maalicus said in an off-handed manner. He stood less than arm's length from me. Then, he looked at Vanity.
"You are not a Sister. Who are you? From your appearance, you are not human. So, demon bitch, who are you?"
Vanity stepped forward to face him, "I am Vanity. I am one of the swords. I am her partner and friend."
Maalicus looked at her closer. A look of disgust and hatred darkened his already dark expression.
"I knew the swords were evil, but this is unbelievable. So, soulless demons inhabit the swords. Fouler than I thought. Girl, cast aside this abomination and embrace the true faith. It is never too late."
I was appalled! How dare he speak about Vanity that way. I looked at her and saw the hurt in her face.
"Maalicus, your words are dull daggers! Vanity is no demon. She is my friend. I could no more get rid of her than I could my heart. You are the one who follows a demon. Tharinzar is the only demon in this conflict."
Before I could react, he slapped me.
"Bitch! How dare you call the true god of all a demon! I will defeat you and all of your stupid followers. Then, you will kneel and beg for the holy words to be carved upon your foul hide. I will make you beg after you have serviced me like the whore you are."
It was my turn to slap him, hard. Apparently no woman had ever stood up to him. For a moment, he was speechless. His eyes darted between the two of us. Then, he started chanting. Small demons appeared around him. He smiled evilly.
"Behold! Holy hands of the true god. Bow or die! This is your only chance."
Vanity and I stepped closer together. For a second, I was terrified. Then, I remembered where we were and who had been here before. My memory served as a summons. Breanne, Claire, and everyone else in between appeared beside us. Maalicus took a step back.
"YOU! Goddess who forged the swords! She is your servant then. I will be truly blessed to defeat you. Tharinzar will grant me godhood!" Maalicus gloated.
We said nothing. Clasping hands, we formed a powerful bond. The demons rushed at us. Not a single one touched us. The aura of our power was such as they vanished before reaching us. Maalicus roared when the last vanished.
"Damn you all! I will defeat you and the power will be mine! Damn you!"
He retreated into the shadows and disappeared. Facing each other, we smiled. With just a nod, I awoke.
It was still dark. I went to the balcony and saw the sky just beginning to get light. I felt for Leo or Mattis. Fortunately, Leo was awake.
"Leo, I need to talk to you."
"Kayla? What is it? You sound troubled."
"Maalicus visited me in my sleep. He attacked me and Vanity."
"He did what?! The gall of him. Tell me everything."
Both Vanity and I told him the whole encounter. Even at a distance, I could feel his anger rise during the telling. Also, my sisters roused and I had to retell parts. Finishing, we all sat to ponder this event.
"Who do you think he was after? You don't think he was still after Sarah?" Lisa speculated.
Sarah gasped, "Even with Abigail dead? Am I such an easy target? I am not weak, am I?"
"You are not weak!" we all responded together, even Leo.
"Then, what, why me?"
"It may be your age. He may think, as the youngest, you are the most vulnerable," Callie added.
"That is plausible. Someone as old as Maalicus may see youth as a weakness. However, now that you have each become more like your ancestors, Kayla is most likely to receive any mental message. Sarah, as part mermaid, can probably send farther or clearer, but Kayla is the most receptive." Leo informed us.
Sarah relaxed, knowing her vulnerability was not in question.
"He still believes Breanne and the first sisters were goddesses and Tharinzar is the true god of all. How can he be so deluded? He called those little demons 'holy hands'. I think he is insane," I stated.
"Obviously," everyone else chimed in.
The bells interrupted us. I felt Mattis approach our door. With a nudge, I opened the door before he could knock.
"How foolish of me to think I could arrive undetected," he said to cover his embarrassment. Looking at us, his smile fled, "I felt you this morning, but I wasn't fully awake. What is going on?"
We told him. He sat heavily into a chair. Silence reigned for several minutes. The servants arrived during the silence. Mattis rose after they left.
"The king must be told. I will spare you from telling it again. However, they may want to question you. I will let you know if they do."
With a slight bow, he left. We were sad that the king had to wake up to such information.
After eating, we went out on the balcony and watched the city begin its day.
Before long, Dorland, Mattis, Mamar, and Kendar stormed into our room. Flushed with anger and exertion, they panicked slightly until they saw us on the balcony. Kendar actually came over to me and wrapped me in a tight embrace.
"Child, are you well? No damage, I hope," he said as he looked me over.
"I am fine, Kendar. He alone is no match for a dozen generations of guardians and Vanity. Besides, he relies too heavily on his demon 'holy hands', even if they were real."
"Explain, please."
"Upon reviewing our encounter, I noticed that the little demons were identical, to the last detail. That only means whomever was projecting those images had only one demon as a model. Maalicus is a user. He would never use his own power when many of his followers would do anything for him. Abigail, Holly, the Bishop, General Barvann, and many more have died for him. He would not risk his own power when their's are available."
Everyone agreed. The men paced. I could tell they felt helpless. Deferring to us did not help matters. An idea came to me and went to my sisters but a second later.
"Mattis, Mamar, there is something we can do. Barriers around the town, arcane and divine. Get Margret and Gavin, they are linked to this land. Call every cleric of every faith. We are going to set up enough lines of defense so that no Baaloc, demon or human, can even touch this city or palace."
Everyone perked up immediately. We coordinated it.
By mid-day, we were set. Starting at the fort outside the city, we set up "power poles" in every direction. Poles were planted in a square around the city every couple of miles. The first set, fort distance around, was blessed by every faith not in tune with the Baaloc faith. It would deter only the weakest of the Baalocs but serve as an intruder alarm. A few miles toward the city, another set was erected. This was charmed by wizards of every type, even necromancers. This was also only for the weakest, but it would alert us to undead and non-humans. Another few miles in, another set. For this set, Leo was the key. Using dragon magic, he made each deter all magical creatures. Anything weaker than a dragon could not pass. The fourth and closest set, wizards, clerics, Leo, and we seven charged to keep out everything that intended to damage the city or harm its people and everything in it.
Days 93-95 (71st-73rd):
It took a couple of days to accomplish this task. Droland commented that he had never seen or heard of so many different people of different faiths, specialties, and cultures coming together for one purpose. From the main tower, I could see the magic of each set. While all the poles were the same height, each extended higher than the previous with the last being higher than even the main tower of the palace. Also, the kinds of magic was visible to me. Cleric yellow, wizard blue, dragon shimmer, and the rainbow of us seven. While each set was not smooth or consistent, they were solid, with no holes or gaps.
Friday, September 19, 2008
Day 91 (69th), High Summer
Day 91 (69th):
No sooner has the bells rang than our room was flooded with people. Servants, the Royal Couple, Mamar, Mattis, Kendar, Lehand, and Jerome nearly ran over each other. The servants were carrying dresses and gowns. Everyone was chattering so that I could not make out what anyone was saying. I finally had my fill. I could tell the others had as well. As a whole, we left. We were nearly to the garden before any of them noticed our absence. Outside, the noise and activity took up where they had left. Leo, bless his scaly hide, roared at all this and it caused everyone to be still and quiet.
"What is all this racket? Can't a dragon sleep in peace?" he asked crossly.
That was when it dawned on everyone that we had no clue as to what was going on. Red faces and wide eyes graced nearly every person in front of us. King Droland recovered and explained.
"It is High Summer. On this day, maidens dress in their finest and present themselves to the world. Men use this time to find wives for themselves, their sons, or foster sons and wards. We were trying to get you seven ready."
"Is he for real?" Lisa asked mentally.
"Yes, he, and the rest, are very serious," I replied.
"We can't! I can't! I'm only fifteen!" Sarah pleaded loudly.
"My father already has suitors for me, but not for a few more years," Alice explained.
"Refuse them," Leo added, "tell them your duties exclude you from this festivity. Surely that will do the trick."
"Thanks, Leo," we all told him.
"Your Majesty," I began, "we cannot take part. Our duty, our mission, will not allow us to participate."
Faces fell. Nothing was said for many moments. A valet entered carrying a stack of papers. He stopped when he noticed the lack of activity. Cautiously, he approached. Droland snatched the stack and dismissed him with a wave. Shuffling paper was the only sound. Half-way through the stack, he stopped and approached us.
"These are all proposals to meet you seven for the purpose of future marriage. What do I tell them?"
"Well, Alice already has suitors. Sarah is a nun and cannot marry. Lisa is a soldier and has to get her commander's permission. Gretta is a ward of her village's constable and needs his permission. The rest of us are far from our parents and cannot contact them in such short notice," I stated.
Droland though for a moment, then replied, "Alice's and Sarah's arguments are justified. However, as king, my authority supersedes Lisa's commander and Gretta's guardian. The rest of you are considered adults, even Gretta and Lisa. As such, you do not need your parents' permission. Your duties as Sisters of the Swords do not exclude you from finding a suitor or even marriage. I cannot allow you, besides Sarah and Alice, to refuse these men."
We looked at each other, defeated. What to do now? Finding husbands was the last thing on our minds. We started to submit to this event when I felt a familiar, warm breeze.
"Your Majesty, what if we were denied by royal decree?" I asked.
"That is different. However, I am the highest authority here. Who would decree it?"
"I decree it," came a melodic female response.
While everyone was looking around, the Faerie Queen appeared out of a rose hedge. Everyone but King Droland, Queen Darla, Leo, and the seven of us fell to their knees.
"By my authority, I exclude these ladies from this event and deny all suitors," she said in a way that stopped all arguments.
She took the stack of papers from Droland and placed her hand upon it. It glowed for a moment, the faded back to normal. She returned them to Droland.
"My answer and seal are on each proposal. Let them deal with me if they truly wish to court any of these ladies."
Droland handed them to the nearest servant. Dropping everything else, that one took the papers and ran like the wind. All of the other servants stood, unsure of what to do next.
The Faerie Queen spoke again,"Who here is an unwed maiden?"
Slowly, hands went up here and there. She turned back to Droland.
"Why are they not going to the High Summer event?"
"They are servants. Only ladies of station take part in High Summer," he said as if it was common knowledge.
"What of Margret? Is she a part of this?"
"The Princess? Goodness, no. Her suitors have been chosen since birth. Vangar and Gavin are looking for wives, however. The daughters of our allies are too young or already married."
As if speaking about them were a summons, all of Droland's children entered the garden. Margret was dressed as usual, but the princes were dressed to impress. Surprisingly, both of them had a piece of paper in their hands. They all saw the Faerie Queen and understanding burst onto their expressions.
Both men marched over to her, bowed, and said in unison, "We seek to court the Sisters of the Swords."
She looked at them and smiled without warmth, "Which ones do you seek to court?"
Gavin deferred to Vangar, who said, " I am interested in Lisa and Gretta. Gavin is interested in Kayla, Anna, and Callie. We know about Sarah's commitment and suspected Alice, as a lord's daughter, already had suitors lined up for her. This is our request."
We were in shock. We never suspected either of them having any interest in any of us. We all thought that they had princesses in the wings, waiting for some preset day to get married. The Faerie Queen inspected the two men for a while. She took the papers from them.
"I will hold these. If you feel the same after the Baalocs and Maalicus are defeated, I will allow it," she said very seriously.
They accepted her answer and left. Droland dismissed the servants and told them to return all the dresses to where they got them.
As they were leaving, a group of men stormed into the garden. They bowed tersely to Droland, then one of them launched into an argument.
"What is the meaning of this, my king? Our requests are returned with some preposterous reply that the Queen of the Fae had denied all suitors. What kind of joke is this?"
"It is no joke," the Faerie Queen answered.
The men looked at her and fell to their knees. Not a one spoke. A couple passed out.
Finally, the speaker asked, "My fairest lady, are we so far below you and they that we are unworthy of their company?"
"I have refused the princes of this palace as well. Their mission is too important. Find your brides elsewhere, Men of Raval. These ladies are not for you," she stated, ending the conversation effectively.
The men rose and left. The unconscious ones were roused and aided out. Servants who had not seen the Faerie Queen entered and exited quickly to get a glimpse of her. Once it was clear no one else was going to try to dispute the response, the Faerie Queen decided it was safe for her to leave us. She did hand us something unexpected. She gave me a ring and bracelet linked together by a thin chain. The ring had a stone that shifted color depending on what angle you looked at it. In the center was a dark slit. The bracelet looked like scales. All she said was I would need it later. She looked up at Leo and winked. To Lisa and Alice, she gave them each a necklace with their elf ancestor's family crest, a circle containing a tree rising out of a harp. They put them on immediately as I had my gift.
As she was headed over to the others, a noise caught our attention. From the door, clerics and soldiers came running, yelling as they did. They stopped and stared at all of us. Hands went inside robes and large bottles of that sparkling water were produced.
The cleric at the front began, loudly, "We are here to remove the vile presence of the creature known as the Faerie Queen. We are also here to purge this place of her influence and the influence of the accursed swords."
I don't know what response he expected, but all of us laughing was definitely not it. Droland and the others tried to reason with them, but they would not hear it, stating that they, too, were corrupted.
The Faerie Queen stepped forward,"Use your water. See for yourselves what we are."
We all lined up, even Leo, whom they had somehow failed to see and were shaken when he approached. Getting their nerve back, they uncorked the bottles and began showering us with the liquid. This tingled even more than the previous attempts. When the bottles were empty, they looked for the effect they had expected. They were disappointed. The Faerie Queen wrung it out of her long hair and shook it from her gown. The rest of us wiped it out of our eyes, shook out our clothes, and pushed our wet hair out of our faces. They looked at us closer. Droland held out his hands for them to see. Leo gave a mighty shake and reshowered us and got them as well. A handful of the guard and a couple of the clerics began screaming and twisting around. The one that had spoken looked at them and went white. Skin boiled and burst in sprays of pus and blood. Eyes exploded, skin fell off in chunks, hair snowed the ground as blood stained the grass. They collapsed to the ground and died. Sarah leaned on Leo for support. We went to the dead and checked their backs. As expected, every dead man had at least on mark on his back. The few remaining soldiers and clerics were horrified, one even got sick. The one who had spoken tried desperately to apologize, beg forgiveness, and make amends. They were told to get their dead and leave. Struggling, they did just that.
We began to wonder how to dry off when Leo said, "Gather around me. I'll get us dry."
We did. He laid down and started humming. Warmth radiated from his body. Not too hot, but warm enough that we were dry in short order.
"My Queen," I asked the Faerie Queen, "what is this water? Every time it has touched me, it tingles. It is actually rather pleasant."
She mentally laughed, "It is from a fountain at Green Springs. It is naturally as you have seen it. Many faiths claim it is the birth fluid of Creation. As you have seen, evil cannot bear its touch least it destroy them. People are baptised in it to purify themselves. Some drink it daily to keep evil out of their bodies. We have used it to cleanse ourselves for ages beyond ages."
Callie verbally interrupted, "Kayla, look at your hair! It has changed!"
Taking a section, I examined it. My previous mouse brown had lightened and gained a red cast. Also, a hint of curl could be seen. I looked around.
"All of you have changes, too. Look."
I drew Vanity so they could see themselves in her polished blade. Callie's unruly locks were smoother and straighter. Lisa's hair had grown inches in the matter of seconds and had gained a silky appearance. Alice's took on a shine unlike I had seen before. Sarah's straight hair developed ring-like curls, framing her face. Gretta's uneven locks grew to a uniform length and had waves that shimmered in the sun. Anna's gained a darker, richer hue and a silky appearance. We were not the only ones. Droland, Mamar, Mattis, Kendar, and Lehand had years removed from their faces, hands, and bodies. Mamar stood straighter. Mattis lost the lines years of worry had etched upon him. Scars vanished. Darla radiated with renewed beauty, her Faerie loveliness plain to all. As we marvelled and examined each other, we speculated how this had happened. The Faerie Queen motioned for our attention. She had not changed one bit.
"I have only witnessed an occurrence like this a few times. Each time, the sparkling water was combined with dragon magic. Between Leo shaking water on us and using his magic to dry us, bodies have been healed and renewed. You seven have been brought closer to your non-human ancestors. The rest have been reinvigorated and rejuvenated. Enjoy your new bodies."
While looking over each other, the Faerie Queen continued what she was doing before. Sarah received a gilded shell pin with a lovely pearl string dangling from it. Gretta got a pair of matching bracelets of smooth silver. Anna was given a pair of black hair sticks with many charms handing off the ends. She told each of us that they were from our distant families who, unlike Callie's dwarf relatives, could not give it to us themselves.
When servants informed us lunch was ready, the Faerie Queen said her good-byes and disappeared into the rose hedge she had used to enter. We went into the formal dining room since the garden was a mess. Leo said he would be there after he cleaned it up. The royal children noticed the changes in everyone. We saved them from the ugly details of the confrontation with the others. Since we had missed breakfast, we were famished. Vangar and Gavin told us what they had seen out in the city during High Summer. They commented on likely pairs, unlikely pairs, and truly startling pairs.
During our meal after Leo had arrived, a valet entered with a scroll. Formally, he present it to the King. Droland read it and his expression darkened. Standing, he informed us that Maalicus and the Baalocs had officially declared war on Raval. The last part of the declaration was the terms of Raval's surrender, which included handing us seven and the swords over to Maalicus for "purification or destruction" depending upon the level of our "corruption". Droland slammed the scroll on the table. Red flooded his glow. He was furious beyond words. Vangar said what his father could not.
"We will fight to the last. No one and nothing will be handed over to these bastards. Newly armed and armored, we can now face them in battle. Raval will not be conquered."
We all agreed.
After lunch, battle plans became the primary focus of everyone. Men from the city were informed and allowed to become temporary soldiers. Many women also joined. All available metal began being formed into weapons and armor. Reports and inquiries flowed in and out of the palace. Leo conveyed information to distant allies. The afternoon and early evening were very busy.
We did not eat together that night. Darla and Margret did join us in our room to eat with us. While Raval had few wars, they knew how the leaders would get while planning battles. While talking, they mentioned that Baaloc Prime use to be Selvis Prime, the modest palace of their neighbor and ally. They expressed their saddness over the loss of that royal family, who were also their friends. While Maalicus had been around for centuries, Baaloc Prime had only been their capital for less than two decades. When they described the royal family of Selvis, the youngest princess seemed familiar. A look at the others informed me that they, too, felt the same. Polite questioning revealed that, as far as they knew, all of that family was dead.
It was getting late when Queen and Princess said good-night. I could sense the men were still busy planning.
No sooner has the bells rang than our room was flooded with people. Servants, the Royal Couple, Mamar, Mattis, Kendar, Lehand, and Jerome nearly ran over each other. The servants were carrying dresses and gowns. Everyone was chattering so that I could not make out what anyone was saying. I finally had my fill. I could tell the others had as well. As a whole, we left. We were nearly to the garden before any of them noticed our absence. Outside, the noise and activity took up where they had left. Leo, bless his scaly hide, roared at all this and it caused everyone to be still and quiet.
"What is all this racket? Can't a dragon sleep in peace?" he asked crossly.
That was when it dawned on everyone that we had no clue as to what was going on. Red faces and wide eyes graced nearly every person in front of us. King Droland recovered and explained.
"It is High Summer. On this day, maidens dress in their finest and present themselves to the world. Men use this time to find wives for themselves, their sons, or foster sons and wards. We were trying to get you seven ready."
"Is he for real?" Lisa asked mentally.
"Yes, he, and the rest, are very serious," I replied.
"We can't! I can't! I'm only fifteen!" Sarah pleaded loudly.
"My father already has suitors for me, but not for a few more years," Alice explained.
"Refuse them," Leo added, "tell them your duties exclude you from this festivity. Surely that will do the trick."
"Thanks, Leo," we all told him.
"Your Majesty," I began, "we cannot take part. Our duty, our mission, will not allow us to participate."
Faces fell. Nothing was said for many moments. A valet entered carrying a stack of papers. He stopped when he noticed the lack of activity. Cautiously, he approached. Droland snatched the stack and dismissed him with a wave. Shuffling paper was the only sound. Half-way through the stack, he stopped and approached us.
"These are all proposals to meet you seven for the purpose of future marriage. What do I tell them?"
"Well, Alice already has suitors. Sarah is a nun and cannot marry. Lisa is a soldier and has to get her commander's permission. Gretta is a ward of her village's constable and needs his permission. The rest of us are far from our parents and cannot contact them in such short notice," I stated.
Droland though for a moment, then replied, "Alice's and Sarah's arguments are justified. However, as king, my authority supersedes Lisa's commander and Gretta's guardian. The rest of you are considered adults, even Gretta and Lisa. As such, you do not need your parents' permission. Your duties as Sisters of the Swords do not exclude you from finding a suitor or even marriage. I cannot allow you, besides Sarah and Alice, to refuse these men."
We looked at each other, defeated. What to do now? Finding husbands was the last thing on our minds. We started to submit to this event when I felt a familiar, warm breeze.
"Your Majesty, what if we were denied by royal decree?" I asked.
"That is different. However, I am the highest authority here. Who would decree it?"
"I decree it," came a melodic female response.
While everyone was looking around, the Faerie Queen appeared out of a rose hedge. Everyone but King Droland, Queen Darla, Leo, and the seven of us fell to their knees.
"By my authority, I exclude these ladies from this event and deny all suitors," she said in a way that stopped all arguments.
She took the stack of papers from Droland and placed her hand upon it. It glowed for a moment, the faded back to normal. She returned them to Droland.
"My answer and seal are on each proposal. Let them deal with me if they truly wish to court any of these ladies."
Droland handed them to the nearest servant. Dropping everything else, that one took the papers and ran like the wind. All of the other servants stood, unsure of what to do next.
The Faerie Queen spoke again,"Who here is an unwed maiden?"
Slowly, hands went up here and there. She turned back to Droland.
"Why are they not going to the High Summer event?"
"They are servants. Only ladies of station take part in High Summer," he said as if it was common knowledge.
"What of Margret? Is she a part of this?"
"The Princess? Goodness, no. Her suitors have been chosen since birth. Vangar and Gavin are looking for wives, however. The daughters of our allies are too young or already married."
As if speaking about them were a summons, all of Droland's children entered the garden. Margret was dressed as usual, but the princes were dressed to impress. Surprisingly, both of them had a piece of paper in their hands. They all saw the Faerie Queen and understanding burst onto their expressions.
Both men marched over to her, bowed, and said in unison, "We seek to court the Sisters of the Swords."
She looked at them and smiled without warmth, "Which ones do you seek to court?"
Gavin deferred to Vangar, who said, " I am interested in Lisa and Gretta. Gavin is interested in Kayla, Anna, and Callie. We know about Sarah's commitment and suspected Alice, as a lord's daughter, already had suitors lined up for her. This is our request."
We were in shock. We never suspected either of them having any interest in any of us. We all thought that they had princesses in the wings, waiting for some preset day to get married. The Faerie Queen inspected the two men for a while. She took the papers from them.
"I will hold these. If you feel the same after the Baalocs and Maalicus are defeated, I will allow it," she said very seriously.
They accepted her answer and left. Droland dismissed the servants and told them to return all the dresses to where they got them.
As they were leaving, a group of men stormed into the garden. They bowed tersely to Droland, then one of them launched into an argument.
"What is the meaning of this, my king? Our requests are returned with some preposterous reply that the Queen of the Fae had denied all suitors. What kind of joke is this?"
"It is no joke," the Faerie Queen answered.
The men looked at her and fell to their knees. Not a one spoke. A couple passed out.
Finally, the speaker asked, "My fairest lady, are we so far below you and they that we are unworthy of their company?"
"I have refused the princes of this palace as well. Their mission is too important. Find your brides elsewhere, Men of Raval. These ladies are not for you," she stated, ending the conversation effectively.
The men rose and left. The unconscious ones were roused and aided out. Servants who had not seen the Faerie Queen entered and exited quickly to get a glimpse of her. Once it was clear no one else was going to try to dispute the response, the Faerie Queen decided it was safe for her to leave us. She did hand us something unexpected. She gave me a ring and bracelet linked together by a thin chain. The ring had a stone that shifted color depending on what angle you looked at it. In the center was a dark slit. The bracelet looked like scales. All she said was I would need it later. She looked up at Leo and winked. To Lisa and Alice, she gave them each a necklace with their elf ancestor's family crest, a circle containing a tree rising out of a harp. They put them on immediately as I had my gift.
As she was headed over to the others, a noise caught our attention. From the door, clerics and soldiers came running, yelling as they did. They stopped and stared at all of us. Hands went inside robes and large bottles of that sparkling water were produced.
The cleric at the front began, loudly, "We are here to remove the vile presence of the creature known as the Faerie Queen. We are also here to purge this place of her influence and the influence of the accursed swords."
I don't know what response he expected, but all of us laughing was definitely not it. Droland and the others tried to reason with them, but they would not hear it, stating that they, too, were corrupted.
The Faerie Queen stepped forward,"Use your water. See for yourselves what we are."
We all lined up, even Leo, whom they had somehow failed to see and were shaken when he approached. Getting their nerve back, they uncorked the bottles and began showering us with the liquid. This tingled even more than the previous attempts. When the bottles were empty, they looked for the effect they had expected. They were disappointed. The Faerie Queen wrung it out of her long hair and shook it from her gown. The rest of us wiped it out of our eyes, shook out our clothes, and pushed our wet hair out of our faces. They looked at us closer. Droland held out his hands for them to see. Leo gave a mighty shake and reshowered us and got them as well. A handful of the guard and a couple of the clerics began screaming and twisting around. The one that had spoken looked at them and went white. Skin boiled and burst in sprays of pus and blood. Eyes exploded, skin fell off in chunks, hair snowed the ground as blood stained the grass. They collapsed to the ground and died. Sarah leaned on Leo for support. We went to the dead and checked their backs. As expected, every dead man had at least on mark on his back. The few remaining soldiers and clerics were horrified, one even got sick. The one who had spoken tried desperately to apologize, beg forgiveness, and make amends. They were told to get their dead and leave. Struggling, they did just that.
We began to wonder how to dry off when Leo said, "Gather around me. I'll get us dry."
We did. He laid down and started humming. Warmth radiated from his body. Not too hot, but warm enough that we were dry in short order.
"My Queen," I asked the Faerie Queen, "what is this water? Every time it has touched me, it tingles. It is actually rather pleasant."
She mentally laughed, "It is from a fountain at Green Springs. It is naturally as you have seen it. Many faiths claim it is the birth fluid of Creation. As you have seen, evil cannot bear its touch least it destroy them. People are baptised in it to purify themselves. Some drink it daily to keep evil out of their bodies. We have used it to cleanse ourselves for ages beyond ages."
Callie verbally interrupted, "Kayla, look at your hair! It has changed!"
Taking a section, I examined it. My previous mouse brown had lightened and gained a red cast. Also, a hint of curl could be seen. I looked around.
"All of you have changes, too. Look."
I drew Vanity so they could see themselves in her polished blade. Callie's unruly locks were smoother and straighter. Lisa's hair had grown inches in the matter of seconds and had gained a silky appearance. Alice's took on a shine unlike I had seen before. Sarah's straight hair developed ring-like curls, framing her face. Gretta's uneven locks grew to a uniform length and had waves that shimmered in the sun. Anna's gained a darker, richer hue and a silky appearance. We were not the only ones. Droland, Mamar, Mattis, Kendar, and Lehand had years removed from their faces, hands, and bodies. Mamar stood straighter. Mattis lost the lines years of worry had etched upon him. Scars vanished. Darla radiated with renewed beauty, her Faerie loveliness plain to all. As we marvelled and examined each other, we speculated how this had happened. The Faerie Queen motioned for our attention. She had not changed one bit.
"I have only witnessed an occurrence like this a few times. Each time, the sparkling water was combined with dragon magic. Between Leo shaking water on us and using his magic to dry us, bodies have been healed and renewed. You seven have been brought closer to your non-human ancestors. The rest have been reinvigorated and rejuvenated. Enjoy your new bodies."
While looking over each other, the Faerie Queen continued what she was doing before. Sarah received a gilded shell pin with a lovely pearl string dangling from it. Gretta got a pair of matching bracelets of smooth silver. Anna was given a pair of black hair sticks with many charms handing off the ends. She told each of us that they were from our distant families who, unlike Callie's dwarf relatives, could not give it to us themselves.
When servants informed us lunch was ready, the Faerie Queen said her good-byes and disappeared into the rose hedge she had used to enter. We went into the formal dining room since the garden was a mess. Leo said he would be there after he cleaned it up. The royal children noticed the changes in everyone. We saved them from the ugly details of the confrontation with the others. Since we had missed breakfast, we were famished. Vangar and Gavin told us what they had seen out in the city during High Summer. They commented on likely pairs, unlikely pairs, and truly startling pairs.
During our meal after Leo had arrived, a valet entered with a scroll. Formally, he present it to the King. Droland read it and his expression darkened. Standing, he informed us that Maalicus and the Baalocs had officially declared war on Raval. The last part of the declaration was the terms of Raval's surrender, which included handing us seven and the swords over to Maalicus for "purification or destruction" depending upon the level of our "corruption". Droland slammed the scroll on the table. Red flooded his glow. He was furious beyond words. Vangar said what his father could not.
"We will fight to the last. No one and nothing will be handed over to these bastards. Newly armed and armored, we can now face them in battle. Raval will not be conquered."
We all agreed.
After lunch, battle plans became the primary focus of everyone. Men from the city were informed and allowed to become temporary soldiers. Many women also joined. All available metal began being formed into weapons and armor. Reports and inquiries flowed in and out of the palace. Leo conveyed information to distant allies. The afternoon and early evening were very busy.
We did not eat together that night. Darla and Margret did join us in our room to eat with us. While Raval had few wars, they knew how the leaders would get while planning battles. While talking, they mentioned that Baaloc Prime use to be Selvis Prime, the modest palace of their neighbor and ally. They expressed their saddness over the loss of that royal family, who were also their friends. While Maalicus had been around for centuries, Baaloc Prime had only been their capital for less than two decades. When they described the royal family of Selvis, the youngest princess seemed familiar. A look at the others informed me that they, too, felt the same. Polite questioning revealed that, as far as they knew, all of that family was dead.
It was getting late when Queen and Princess said good-night. I could sense the men were still busy planning.
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Days 88-90 (66th-68th)
Day 88 (66th):
We did not hear the morning bells. The meal on the table wasn't cold but not hot either. No message was left for us. Feeling out for the others, none of them were anywhere near us. They were also struggling with the events of last night. Between the revelations and Shandara's suicide, there was a lot to process. We ate and stayed in the room. We did not want to inflict our presence on the others. The servants came and went without speaking. We used our seclusion to feel out our abilities. It suddenly dawned on me that none of us have actually trained to use these gifts or the other magic that we have performed. All of it is either pure instinct or just asking for something to be done. Grant it, with Sloth, we do have a master wizard and, with Gluttony, a master elf cleric or druid, I'm not sure what title he went by among others. Vanity's Faerie magic is still with her as is Lust's mermaid abilities. Greed's knowledge of gems, jewels, and the like is not diminished a whit in spite of his centuries as a sword. Wrath's military knowledge is just as sharp as the day he melded with the sword and Envy's knowledge of clothes, material, and weaving aid us the same now as it would have a thousand years ago. The sharing between us gives all of us access to this seemingly limitless knowledge. I understand why even our friends find it hard to remember that we as still young women, two of us under eighteen years of age. Looking as on outsider, I was beginning to get the feelings they get when we do something they deem extraordinary. I needed to remember that the others could not call up a thousand years of skills and knowledge as instantly as we did.
Some of us, in experimenting, found we could reach farther then we before believed. We also experimented, one at a time, with the swords' effects. We only used them a little, but stretched their area of influence. We kept it to one person being effected, picking them from a crowd. Not enough to cause trouble, but just enough to see their attitudes and behavior change. While doing this, we saw Barram as we stood on our balcony. He was now working for a merchant. He seemed to enjoy it as his glow was bright and strong. Damas was also busy. We saw him wearing the clothes of the wizard's guild, which, with his magic reopened to him, he was able to join. He, too, was happy and content.
When the servants came for the lunch dishes, Mamar, Mattis, and Kendar were right behind them. For some reason, they seemed weaker, almost smaller, than yesterday. Their glows were not as bright or large as before. We all sat down and got comfortable. For a few tense moments, no one spoke.
Finally, Kendar broke the silence, "Shandara was buried with honors. Her information has provided us with many avenues of attack. We have made it certain that she is chronicled as another Baaloc who flung off their armor to join our side, even if it was for a brief time."
We nodded, glad she was given those honors. Kendar cleared his throat a few times before speaking again, "King Droland has suggested moving all of you to better, serparate rooms. He and others do not think this suite is appropriate for ladies of your discovered stations. But, it is up to you. You can stay here or have the other rooms."
We seven looked at each other. The suite we were in was massive. After the men had found rooms of their own, we had more than enough space. We had found out that, usually, the servants of dignitaries stayed here, but we didn't care about station or any of that. I could see some of this bothered the three men. They did not want to offend us, but they were torn between knowing us as friends and what was expected behavior towards people of our new stations.
After a quick poll of my sisters, I responded, "Sirs, we are happy where we are, in this room. Please, do not be so formal with us. We are still the same seven girls you rode with from Thantos, Kendar. Mattis, six of us slept on you floor. Mamar, where is the kindly smile you used to greet us? I know you feel duty-bound to offer this and to be official with us, but we are still the same girls you chastised for talking mentally in front of you. Please, be our friends again, not diplomats."
My sisters nodded and also asked to be friends again with the men before us. I could see the conflict warring in each man. Mamar was the first to resolve his internal dispute. He smiled at us like a grandfather. We cheered. Mattis and Kendar realized how foolish they had been. We all stood, hugged, and laughed about it. By the time the last dish was removed, we were all friends again.
A knock on the door interruped our conversations. A servant told us there was a package for us outside the front doors. He stated that it was too large to bring inside and was clearly marked for "The Seven Sisters of the Swords".
Following him to the front of the palace, we found it and everyone else there. Many from the city were also there, Barram and Damas included. It was large, a cart holding something that was covered. I sensed no evil from it. Callie commented that the cart was strained from the weight. We seven stepped forward and pulled off the cover. We revealed a mass of armor, weapons, and tools. A piece of rolled up paper was being held by a gauntlet. I pulled it out and unrolled it. To everyone, I read:
"Greetings, Honored Sisters,
We could not send you soldiers as we are dealing with a crisis of our own. However, we have assembled as much human-size equipment as we could find. We hope these things will aid you against the Baalocs.
Allies forever,
King Gorval of the Dwarves."
Cheers erupted, slightly spooking us seven. Kendar explained that there had been a shortage of metal to make arms and equipment. I could see a weight of doubt and fear lift off many gathered around us.
I stepped over to King Droland, bowed, and, in a voice all could hear, said, "Our gift is your gift, Your Majesty."
More cheers drowned out Droland's acceptance of the gift. Kendar and Lehand got people to begin unloading the cart. Droland and the rest looked at us as friends again. We all felt much better now. We watched and marvelled at the amount and quality of this stuff. Underneath it all was a box. On it was written, "To my distant cousin, Callie." Callie accepted the box and opened it. Inside were treasures. A detailed family tree showed how Callie was related to them. A ring with the family crest, which happened to be a sun inside a mountain, that fit Callie's finger perfectly. An overdress with the family crest sewn on the front. Lastly, a beautiful silver circlet with the crest in the center like a shield. We were so happy for her. As one of a large family, Callie rarely got anything new and never custom made. Alice was reading over the family tree. She asked to see the note I was still holding. A look of shock whitened her face. We stopped.
"What's the matter? Alice, what is it?" Calle asked nervously.
"Look at your tree, Callie. King Gorval is related to you. In fact, you are decendant of three dwarven kings. Callie, you're royalty!"
Callie looked fit to faint. Our village was as far from nobility as one could get. Even when on "royal inspection", we only got the lowest of the royal family, like the seventh child of a count or something. We looked at the others, hoping to avoid a repeat of the ackwardness of earlier. Smiles and winks were the replies. We relaxed. After the cart was empty, we gave it to a farmer who was watching this whole scene. We all followed Kendar and Lehand to where the stuff was being stored. Armor was sorted and matched up for complete suits. Pole arms along one side, swords on another, and shields took up a third. Daggers, axes, and tools were laid out on a table. Helmets not belonging to the suits of armor were set on shelves, along with mismatched gauntlets and shoes. Soldiers, guards, and servants trickled in to either just get a glimpse, inspect them, or request an item to replace one that was lost, broken, or in really bad shape. Requests were written and the one asking was told that they would have to wait until everything was counted and cataloged. Those just inspecting remarked on the quality and strength of the equipment. This sorting went on almost to the evening bells. The arms master sent word that those who had made requests were to meet with him to get their items. Droland told us to head to the garden for dinner. Using Leo's presence as an anchor, we were able to get there without escort.
Dinner was far more relaxed today than last night. Talk about the items monopolized the conversation. Callie's ring, she didn't wear the circlet, also drew attention. Leo noted that it was a very old family and many human kings could also be traced back to it. We regained our former level of comfort with everyone. Vangar's glow was taking a blue tint but nowhere near Margret's or even Gavin's shade or intensity. Droland's was slowly brightening to an orange hue with sparks of yellow and losing the shell. Darla's was a brilliant pink and radiated softly. Mamar's yellow was intense, strong, and had so many sparks that the color was sometimes lost. Pride white was thin on all the royal family. I felt that was a good thing. Leo's was still so clean, pure, and easy to deal with in its simplicity. Talk about Shandara's information was light. They did mention some differences between her's, Barram's, and Damas' reports. Shandara had access to Maalicus' private chambers as well as the private areas of other high-ranking officials that the men did not. She was also present during high-level meetings that the men knew nothing about. Plus her's was more recent than either man's as she had left mere days ago compared to Barram's month or Damas' year.
Before it got dark, we all went to the garden wall to check its progress. Men must have been working non-stop. Already, it was waist high. Callie reported that the completed part was strong and secure. The workers' pride widened and they picked up their pace slightly. We returned to the palace as it was getting too dark to see. We returned to our suite in much better spirits than when we had left.
Days 89-90 (67th-68th):
Over the next couple of days we didn't do anything special. Reports were examined. Drawings were scrutinized. Plans were made, discarded, and remade. Leo flew over Baaloc Prime to validate the outer structures and arms. Workers finished the wall and made the ceiling window easier for Leo to enter and exit, but very difficult for anything smaller than he to even try to open it.
We did not hear the morning bells. The meal on the table wasn't cold but not hot either. No message was left for us. Feeling out for the others, none of them were anywhere near us. They were also struggling with the events of last night. Between the revelations and Shandara's suicide, there was a lot to process. We ate and stayed in the room. We did not want to inflict our presence on the others. The servants came and went without speaking. We used our seclusion to feel out our abilities. It suddenly dawned on me that none of us have actually trained to use these gifts or the other magic that we have performed. All of it is either pure instinct or just asking for something to be done. Grant it, with Sloth, we do have a master wizard and, with Gluttony, a master elf cleric or druid, I'm not sure what title he went by among others. Vanity's Faerie magic is still with her as is Lust's mermaid abilities. Greed's knowledge of gems, jewels, and the like is not diminished a whit in spite of his centuries as a sword. Wrath's military knowledge is just as sharp as the day he melded with the sword and Envy's knowledge of clothes, material, and weaving aid us the same now as it would have a thousand years ago. The sharing between us gives all of us access to this seemingly limitless knowledge. I understand why even our friends find it hard to remember that we as still young women, two of us under eighteen years of age. Looking as on outsider, I was beginning to get the feelings they get when we do something they deem extraordinary. I needed to remember that the others could not call up a thousand years of skills and knowledge as instantly as we did.
Some of us, in experimenting, found we could reach farther then we before believed. We also experimented, one at a time, with the swords' effects. We only used them a little, but stretched their area of influence. We kept it to one person being effected, picking them from a crowd. Not enough to cause trouble, but just enough to see their attitudes and behavior change. While doing this, we saw Barram as we stood on our balcony. He was now working for a merchant. He seemed to enjoy it as his glow was bright and strong. Damas was also busy. We saw him wearing the clothes of the wizard's guild, which, with his magic reopened to him, he was able to join. He, too, was happy and content.
When the servants came for the lunch dishes, Mamar, Mattis, and Kendar were right behind them. For some reason, they seemed weaker, almost smaller, than yesterday. Their glows were not as bright or large as before. We all sat down and got comfortable. For a few tense moments, no one spoke.
Finally, Kendar broke the silence, "Shandara was buried with honors. Her information has provided us with many avenues of attack. We have made it certain that she is chronicled as another Baaloc who flung off their armor to join our side, even if it was for a brief time."
We nodded, glad she was given those honors. Kendar cleared his throat a few times before speaking again, "King Droland has suggested moving all of you to better, serparate rooms. He and others do not think this suite is appropriate for ladies of your discovered stations. But, it is up to you. You can stay here or have the other rooms."
We seven looked at each other. The suite we were in was massive. After the men had found rooms of their own, we had more than enough space. We had found out that, usually, the servants of dignitaries stayed here, but we didn't care about station or any of that. I could see some of this bothered the three men. They did not want to offend us, but they were torn between knowing us as friends and what was expected behavior towards people of our new stations.
After a quick poll of my sisters, I responded, "Sirs, we are happy where we are, in this room. Please, do not be so formal with us. We are still the same seven girls you rode with from Thantos, Kendar. Mattis, six of us slept on you floor. Mamar, where is the kindly smile you used to greet us? I know you feel duty-bound to offer this and to be official with us, but we are still the same girls you chastised for talking mentally in front of you. Please, be our friends again, not diplomats."
My sisters nodded and also asked to be friends again with the men before us. I could see the conflict warring in each man. Mamar was the first to resolve his internal dispute. He smiled at us like a grandfather. We cheered. Mattis and Kendar realized how foolish they had been. We all stood, hugged, and laughed about it. By the time the last dish was removed, we were all friends again.
A knock on the door interruped our conversations. A servant told us there was a package for us outside the front doors. He stated that it was too large to bring inside and was clearly marked for "The Seven Sisters of the Swords".
Following him to the front of the palace, we found it and everyone else there. Many from the city were also there, Barram and Damas included. It was large, a cart holding something that was covered. I sensed no evil from it. Callie commented that the cart was strained from the weight. We seven stepped forward and pulled off the cover. We revealed a mass of armor, weapons, and tools. A piece of rolled up paper was being held by a gauntlet. I pulled it out and unrolled it. To everyone, I read:
"Greetings, Honored Sisters,
We could not send you soldiers as we are dealing with a crisis of our own. However, we have assembled as much human-size equipment as we could find. We hope these things will aid you against the Baalocs.
Allies forever,
King Gorval of the Dwarves."
Cheers erupted, slightly spooking us seven. Kendar explained that there had been a shortage of metal to make arms and equipment. I could see a weight of doubt and fear lift off many gathered around us.
I stepped over to King Droland, bowed, and, in a voice all could hear, said, "Our gift is your gift, Your Majesty."
More cheers drowned out Droland's acceptance of the gift. Kendar and Lehand got people to begin unloading the cart. Droland and the rest looked at us as friends again. We all felt much better now. We watched and marvelled at the amount and quality of this stuff. Underneath it all was a box. On it was written, "To my distant cousin, Callie." Callie accepted the box and opened it. Inside were treasures. A detailed family tree showed how Callie was related to them. A ring with the family crest, which happened to be a sun inside a mountain, that fit Callie's finger perfectly. An overdress with the family crest sewn on the front. Lastly, a beautiful silver circlet with the crest in the center like a shield. We were so happy for her. As one of a large family, Callie rarely got anything new and never custom made. Alice was reading over the family tree. She asked to see the note I was still holding. A look of shock whitened her face. We stopped.
"What's the matter? Alice, what is it?" Calle asked nervously.
"Look at your tree, Callie. King Gorval is related to you. In fact, you are decendant of three dwarven kings. Callie, you're royalty!"
Callie looked fit to faint. Our village was as far from nobility as one could get. Even when on "royal inspection", we only got the lowest of the royal family, like the seventh child of a count or something. We looked at the others, hoping to avoid a repeat of the ackwardness of earlier. Smiles and winks were the replies. We relaxed. After the cart was empty, we gave it to a farmer who was watching this whole scene. We all followed Kendar and Lehand to where the stuff was being stored. Armor was sorted and matched up for complete suits. Pole arms along one side, swords on another, and shields took up a third. Daggers, axes, and tools were laid out on a table. Helmets not belonging to the suits of armor were set on shelves, along with mismatched gauntlets and shoes. Soldiers, guards, and servants trickled in to either just get a glimpse, inspect them, or request an item to replace one that was lost, broken, or in really bad shape. Requests were written and the one asking was told that they would have to wait until everything was counted and cataloged. Those just inspecting remarked on the quality and strength of the equipment. This sorting went on almost to the evening bells. The arms master sent word that those who had made requests were to meet with him to get their items. Droland told us to head to the garden for dinner. Using Leo's presence as an anchor, we were able to get there without escort.
Dinner was far more relaxed today than last night. Talk about the items monopolized the conversation. Callie's ring, she didn't wear the circlet, also drew attention. Leo noted that it was a very old family and many human kings could also be traced back to it. We regained our former level of comfort with everyone. Vangar's glow was taking a blue tint but nowhere near Margret's or even Gavin's shade or intensity. Droland's was slowly brightening to an orange hue with sparks of yellow and losing the shell. Darla's was a brilliant pink and radiated softly. Mamar's yellow was intense, strong, and had so many sparks that the color was sometimes lost. Pride white was thin on all the royal family. I felt that was a good thing. Leo's was still so clean, pure, and easy to deal with in its simplicity. Talk about Shandara's information was light. They did mention some differences between her's, Barram's, and Damas' reports. Shandara had access to Maalicus' private chambers as well as the private areas of other high-ranking officials that the men did not. She was also present during high-level meetings that the men knew nothing about. Plus her's was more recent than either man's as she had left mere days ago compared to Barram's month or Damas' year.
Before it got dark, we all went to the garden wall to check its progress. Men must have been working non-stop. Already, it was waist high. Callie reported that the completed part was strong and secure. The workers' pride widened and they picked up their pace slightly. We returned to the palace as it was getting too dark to see. We returned to our suite in much better spirits than when we had left.
Days 89-90 (67th-68th):
Over the next couple of days we didn't do anything special. Reports were examined. Drawings were scrutinized. Plans were made, discarded, and remade. Leo flew over Baaloc Prime to validate the outer structures and arms. Workers finished the wall and made the ceiling window easier for Leo to enter and exit, but very difficult for anything smaller than he to even try to open it.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)