Day 229 (207th):
We were not startled by the bells, but it took a moment to remember where we were. We felt odd not strapping on our swords, but knew it was necessary and that they could be with us in seconds. Dawn and Set found an area of woods not far from the cloister to spend the day. Bo found various nooks and crannies to hide from sight. We hid the swords deep inside the mattresses so anyone feeling around the beds would not find them. We gleaned from the others that we were responsible for changing out the mattresses, so there was no fear of them accidentally getting tossed out.
We were up, dressed, and covered when a knock broke the silence. Gretta opened the door to a female elf cleric with a hard face and large eyes. She appeared to be middle-aged, for an elf.
"Good, I did not have to shake you out of bed. Many new arrivals are not use to our strict ways," she said loud enough for any who were outside to hear. She entered and closed the door, "Lady Bishop has informed me that you are not true novices. In these difficult times, I can understand your need for a safe haven. To pass as novices, I need to teach you a few things."
She instructed us on hand signals, since we were not suppose to talk. This cleric, who called herself Sister Cedar, told us that, save for the Lord and Lady Bishops, every full cleric was called by the name of a plant. Once instructed, we followed her to the dining hall.
Inside the building, we were allowed to look up, not at the feet of the person in front of us. However, there was little to see as the walls were bare and the windows were tiny. Either she ignored us or could not feel us feeling around to get our bearings.
Inside the dining hall, while their mouths were silent, the mental noise was deafening. We shut down to a sliver just to keep the pain of the noise at bay. We kept our hoods up to avoid unwanted attention. Sis. Cedar found us an empty table. Even so closed, we still felt the hum of speculation about us. Fortunately, that was cut off when the food began to arrive. We could see disgust, loathing, and boredom from the others. Plates were placed before us plus glasses and a pitcher of water. We saw no one else eating so we did not either. It seemed everyone was to be served first before eating was permitted. As we waited, Sarah and Lisa examined our plates.
"If there is a blessing, I will use that to cover me purifying the food and water. They are not poisoned, just tainted like everything else," Lisa slid to us.
We gave the barest of nods as Lord and Lady Bishop entered and everyone stood. They went to a raised table and stood.
"Brothers and Sisters, we have new novices this morning. While they will only be with us a short time, they are expected to fully participate and work in all parts of our lives. They will receive no special treatment or privileges. Also, bandits have been reported in the our area using a hostage to lure others into ambush. If any of you encounter a bard named Jacobo, know that he is an innocent party and offer help without compromising your own safety. Now, let us pray for our blessings and hopes for this day," Lord Bishop announced.
Lord Bishop began a long and loud prayer in a strange form of elfish. Lisa removed the taint from our food and drink plus, with us so close together, several tables around us. When he was finished, we sat down and everyone began eating. Those around us noticed a difference in their food and water. Those allowed to speak passed it around, asking if the others noticed a change. A few brought it to Lord and Lady Bishop's attention. They, too, could tell the difference. We feared that we had done something wrong when we were called to their table.
"Did you do this?" we were asked.
We nodded.
"Can you do it for everyone here?"
We nodded.
"Do you need to speak to do it?"
We shook our heads.
"Then, please do so," we were ordered.
We faced the rest of the room. Clasping hands, we gave Lisa the energy while she purified the entire room, plus slightly beyond the walls. I could see the magic course over, around, and through everything and everyone. We let go when we were done, bowed to the bishops, and returned to our seats. The room was much cleaner as everyone now enjoyed their meal. While eating, we were handed a note that informed us to go to Lord Bishop's office as soon as we were dismissed from the dining hall. Now, we were really worried.
After the dishes were taken, Sis. Cedar told us to follow her. We made our way to the center of the cloister. We entered a large room and saw Lord and Lady Bishop waiting on us.
"Sis. Cedar, please leave us," Lady Bishop gently ordered.
Sis. Cedar bowed and left.
"You may speak in here. Explain what you did in there and why the food and water changed," Lord Bishop asked calmly.
Lisa stepped forward, "The taint on the land has affected everything. My particular gift is to identify and treat impurities and poisons in things and people. You and the rest of the cloister will notice that you feel better than you have in a long time. With my sisters holding my hands and giving me their energy, it boosted that gift to everything in the room, all the people, and just beyond the walls. We could have gone further, but we did not have your permission to do so."
The pair thought and talked this over. They asked about the gifts of the rest of us and we told them fully. Finally, they decided and gave us our assignments. Lord Bishop gave us our duties.
"Lisa, you are to the kitchens. Purify all that you can without exhausting yourself. Sarah, go to the infirmary. There are many sick people there we cannot cure nor treat. Gretta, stay here. What little wealth we have needs to be validated and our relics authenticated. Anna and Alice, you two will also stay. Our histories have been corrupted and we need to straighten them out. Callie, our builders are not highly skilled. Help them repair our home to become the stronghold it was long ago. Kayla, it will appear to others that you are wandering aimlessly. We need to know if we harbor any enemies of the Crowns. If you gain any significant insight, return here at once."
We indicated that we understood. Sis. Cedar was called back in to take Lisa, Sarah, Callie, and I to our respective duties. We let the others know we were a mere mental call away.
We followed Sis. Cedar as she showed us around. Lisa was deposited in the kitchens, one large and two smaller, and immediately given the task of sorting through the stores to see what was still fresh. As this task left her almost totally alone, no one saw or felt her as she began her other chore. The infirmary wasn't far from the kitchens. Sarah stumbled slightly when we walked inside. The brothers and sisters were trying so hard, but the tainted land made curing these sensitive people nearly impossible by normal means. This area had an external door and windows. I reached to Set and Dawn to stay near these as Sarah may need the help. They both replied and Sarah smiled. Callie and I continued to follow Sis. Cedar as we went outside. In the courtyard, three men and one woman poured over several large scrolls. Sis. Cedar told them Callie was from a long line of engineers and builders and could provide expertise in the remodel. She was permitted to speak as it would be too difficult to convey such complicated terms in simple hand signals. Callie began in earnest.
Out of earshot from anyone, Sis. Cedar whispered to me, "I am sorry, but I will have to portray you in a bad light. In order for you to wander, I will have to tell everyone that you are unfit for any task and we are searching desperately for anything you are suitable to do. I am sorry."
I looked at her and smiled. It caught her off-guard. She tried to speak, but I stopped her. I shook my head, tugged my hood more over my face, and began walking. Set laughed when I told him my "assignment". Sis. Cedar walked another direction, spoke to another cleric, and walked sadly away. That cleric raced over to other clerics and spoke to them. They all looked at me with pity. I walked on. My freedom allowed me to check on my sisters. They were thoroughly engrossed and barely acknowledged me. Set informed me there were many mice around the building to fill him, plus a few squirrels.
After about an hour, I was confronted by a small gang of people, equal parts male and female, who stopped me as I walked.
"What do we have here? So simple that no task is available? Now you're left alone. Let's see what race could breed such an imbecile," sneered a tall male elf in yellow robes.
Two ran over to me and flipped my hood off. They were all taken aback when they saw my purple eyes and reddish hair. Those that pulled off my hood rejoined their group.
"What kind of freak are you? There is no way a mongrel like you will stay one more night in our cloister. No one will question if something like you ends up dead," a chubby male gnome snarled.
They began gathering large sticks, rocks, and other heavy items. They approached me threateningly. I stood still. Just before they reached me, I pulled inward and found kirlan and plotted how to get from here to Lord Bishop's office. As they raised their weapons, I slid into kirlan and appeared in his office, much to every one's surprise.
"Kayla! What is this? Please explain," Lady Bishop said in shock.
I told them what had prompted my appearance. Lord and Lady Bishop were aghast. My sisters gathered around me to make sure I was unharmed. The Bishops asked me to describe my would-be attackers. I did better. With a mirror, I showed them. They recognized them and sent another cleric to gather them and send them here. Set popped in to check on me. He wanted to burn them, but I told him the Bishops could handle any punishment they might need. We all were herded to a back room just ahead of their arrival. We could hear every word spoken through a window-like break in the wall.
"It has come to our attention you tried to attack a novice," Lord Bishop began calmly.
"Lies, my lord!" shrieked the elf in yellow, "We would never harm or attempt to harm anyone here."
"We were told my your would-be victim herself. Are you saying she lied?" Lady Bishop asked.
There was silence.
Then, the chubby gnome barked, "She is an abomination! Her kind is what started this plague on our kingdom! Only by their deaths can this land be healed!"
Lord and Lady Bishop were silent. Inside the room we were in, a bell rang. Next to it was a sign that read, "If this is ringing, go into the main room."
We all walked out and faced my would-be attackers, Set included. This really caused them to start yelling, demanding, and threatening. The Bishops called for their silence.
"You have shown deplorable spirit and complete lack of faith. Do you not remember our most basic tenant? 'All things happen for a reason.' Do you truly believe we would be housing those who are a danger to us and our kingdom? Hand me your robes, all of you. You are stripped of status and are novices once more. Furthermore, you are in sequester until you can demonstrate your faith and spirit are as they should be for a full cleric. Your robes, now," Lord Bishop sternly ordered.
Sheepishly, they removed their robes and laid them over a chair. Nearly nude, they stood with eyes downcast and shivering slightly. Lady Bishop handed them each a plain brown robe. Once they were dressed, Lord Bishop turned to us, specifically me.
"Inform these people where you are from, who sent you, and any titles you hold," he told me.
I stepped forward, which made them cringe.
"We are from the land to the east, Laska Kingdom, from the towns of Denar, Marna, Vaska, Talst, Lady of Heart Convent, and Thantos. Starlight, who's temple lies in Brimgrove's heart, sent us to aid this land. I am a dragon rider, a cleric of Fate, heir to the Faerie Queen, and one of the Seven Sisters of the Swords."
They stood in stunned silence.
One of the females slowly sank to her knees and muttered, "Pardona mi foolanash. Si na compar."
I told her, "Si pardonas no relevey su trespass."
Tears rolled down her face as she stood and stared at the floor. The others still stared in shock. Lady Bishop began herding them out as Lord Bishop told them to ponder their views as to who or what is allowed to be their clerics. I could feel their confusion, hurt, and embarrassment.
Not long after, another bell rang. Lord and Lady Bishop told us it was meal time. We followed them to the dining hall where we met up with the others. In seconds, they knew about our confrontation and we knew what they had done since we parted. We sat at the same table as before. To our surprise, my would-be attackers were serving the rest of us. Once everyone was served, they disappeared into the kitchen. Lord and Lady Bishop made no announcement, just another blessing.
We could tell Lisa had greatly improved the food by the way everyone attacked their plates. New faces among those assembled were warmly greeted. Sarah beamed when she saw them, letting us know they were among her patients. Callie's morning companions ate while pouring over papers and scrolls. We noticed the Bishops had a stack of notes which they got another cleric to pass around to select members of the assembly. Some were happy while others were hurt or mad. This had to do with Alice and Anna's task this morning.
Instead of being excused after lunch, Sis. Cedar told us it was time for mass. Another bell rang and we all filed into another large room with a stage and podium at the front. No religious symbols could be seen to indicate the patron of their order. Sis. Cedar showed us where to sit and told us that would be our place while we were here. There were no prayer books or anything to help us follow along. The eunuch from last night sat not far from us.
He signaled, "Follow me. Do as I do."
We nodded our understanding. Lord and Lady Bishop entered. Everyone stood. Lady Bishop took a seat in a throne-like chair near the podium. Lord Bishop began speaking in that odd elvish. I could feel Alice and Lisa struggling to understand, catching only a word or phrase among the other strange words. I caught a few bits and recognized it as draconian. I noticed some people had their eyes closed and decided it would cover my mental departure. I told my sisters what I was doing and they told me they would cover for me. I pulled inward......
......and was in Andros' home once again. Vanity, in her fully faerie glory, was waiting for me.
"I was beginning to feel unwanted," Vanity teased, "What are we doing?"
"We need to understand the cloister's language. We have understood both elf and dragon. We need the gods' help."
Vanity smiled, " Then, let us be on our way."
We exited Andros' home and found ourselves in a bright area surrounded by exotic buildings. We recognized Fate's home and knew we were in the Immortal Realm. We did not need to speak. Brimagor appeared before us.
"Greetings, Ladies, so nice of you to visit. To what do we owe the pleasure?"
"Lord, the cloister we are in use an unusual language we do not recognize. We have detected both elf words and dragon words. Can you help?"
"Let me hear this language."
We focused and Lord Bishop's words sounded around us. Brimagor listened intently. After a few moments, he motioned for it to end. The speaking stopped and Brimagor explained.
"You were very alert to hear the two languages. The reason is it is a poorly translated or learned form of the Treegal language. Treegals were an ancient elf race that lived with dragons. They interbred physically, culturally, and linguistically. The last true Treegal died about two thousand years ago. That cloister must have been based on the Treegal religion. However, the pronunciation is so garbled that it barely resembled its true nature."
"Lord, if we spoke it true, could it help in healing this land?" I asked.
He thought for a moment, then replied, "Crialas is not my territory. Wait here. I will find that land's patron or someone who knows the Treegal ways."
Brimagor vanished. We used the moments to check back to assure no one had noticed we were not there.
Brimagor returned with a beautiful woman who's hair looked like a flowering bush. Her skin was the dark color of tree bark and her eyes were as yellow as a wolf's.
"Ladies, this in Treena. During the Treegal's time, she was a full goddess. Without worshipers, her power has wained. Only by being a handmaiden to Nature is she still around. Treena, this is Kayla and Vanity."
"Greetings, Ladies. Brimagor said you found a group trying to live the Treegal path. Let me hear it, please," she requested in a voice that sounded like wind gently blowing through branches.
Once more, Lord Bishop's words sounded around us. Treena physically cringed and called for it to stop. She was near tears.
"Our language! Our precious language! How could it be so corrupted? Can it be repaired? How can I help?" she pleaded.
"Teach us to say it right. Plus, any information could help."
Treena thought for a moment as she composed herself. I saw her face light up.
"The book! Our clerics wrote a book, detailing every ritual, rite, and laws. Find it and it will guide them properly."
Vanity and I pulled Alice and Anna to us. They were disoriented at first, but our presence kept them from being overwhelmed. As we explained, Treena and Brimagor produced an image of the book we needed to find. They told us, when we returned, they would give us the right words. We felt a tug that alerted us to return to the cloister. Brimagor and Treena gave us our leave. We slid back......
......to hear Lord Bishop finishing up his sermon. The eunuch seemed frantic but relaxed when he was we were all mentally present. He motioned as everyone stood. We stood as everyone began a chant, also as distorted and jumbled as Lord Bishop's sermon. I felt Brimagor's presence, accompanied by Treena's, ease upon me and the proper pronunciations given to us. My sisters received it as well and we whispered the true chant. We felt magic building as we continued. We saw some, whom I suspected were more open than the others, picked up the real words and added to the magic. An area, clean and orderly, expanded from us and the others. It pushed the taint of the land out of the sanctuary. We could tell others felt it as well. As the chant continued, being picked up by more of the others, the area expanded to include this building, then the grounds, and, when it was done, included all of the grounds and a portion of the town beyond that.
The assembly was dismissed and Sis. Cedar quickly came over to us and told us to follow her now. We thought we were in big trouble as we went back to Lord Bishop's office. The door was barely closed when Lady Bishop started in on us.
"Explain that! What did you do? We have laid down eons of ritual magic that you removed in moments. That ritual has been handed down for several hundred years. What gives you the right?" she berated us.
We stood in silence, quite confused. As soon as I stepped forward to speak, she slapped me across the face.
"I am getting tired of you, all of you. We give you a safe haven, feed you, clothe you, and what do we get? You turn our orderly lives upside down." She returned to Lord Bishop, "We should cast these girls out. I am beginning to doubt Starlight sent them or any beneviolent powers attend them."
She sat heavily next to Lord Bishop as he silently pondered.
"Sisters, we need to get their book. It is the only way they will believe us," I mentally told them as I rubbed my face.
They nodded and we faced each other as we joined hands.
Lady Bishop stood, "What are you doing now? What chaos do you summon?"
We said nothing. We pictured the book as clearly as we could.
From a corner piled with books and scrolls, there was a noise. Things began to slide and tumble. Just as Lady Bishop opened her mouth to speak, the book unearthed itself from the pile and glided to Lord Bishop's lap. In silence, they both looked at it. They flipped throught he yellowed and brittle pages. Lord Bishop stopped as he found the ritual he had just performed. To his dismay, he realized he had only been doing half of it or less, as a page was missing. They also discovered they had been mispronuncing the words. Lady Bishop looked at us, embarrasment and worry plain on her face.
"I am dreadfully sorry. I have denicated my life to this faith. I, like everyone else, believed we had been taught truly and fully. Kayla, I am sorry I hit you. I am sorry I yelled at all of you. How did you find out it was wrong?"
"When you, Lord Bishop, were speaking, my mind journeyed to the Immortal Realm. There one of my patrons told me about the Treegals and that your words were not accurate to that language."
"Treegalish, yes, that is our order," Lord Bishop interrupted, "the last Treegali began this order to preserve his culture."
"My patron found the last Treegal goddess still in the Immortal Realm, who verified your error and told us about the book."
"Wait," Lady Bishop stopped me, "What do you mean by that? How can there be 'the last Treegal goddess'? Treegals had no gods or goddesses. The book clearly states that all power is in the mortal spirit. They worshiped no one."
"Now who lies," spoke a voice that sounded like Treena, "Your book tells you all of our names. Open to the third page."
Lord and Lady Bishop looked around for the speaker. They turned to the page and read off more than a dozen names. They looked at each other in shock. I could tell they were searching their memories for any mention of any deity. Finally, Lady Bishop stated that they were never taught any names, just rules about spirit and faith.
"Then, it is time that was fixed. These clerics can be a foothold for a changed land. A complete copy would be better, however," Treena's voice responded.
"Who is that?" Lady Bishop half asked/ half demanded.
"Name number eight on the goddess side," came the reply.
Looking at the page, Lord and Lady Bishop chimed together, "Treenaliza? Goddess of the Wild Forest? Is that you?"
"Yes, that is my name and title," she said as she materialized in the room with us.
Lord and Lady Bishop hit the floor and prostrated before her and began spouting more of the garbled language. Treena let out a shreik that rattled everything in the room.
"Quit that! You WILL learn the proper pronunciation of the language before one more word is uttered!"
The Bishops got up and apologized. Treena took the book and sadly turned the pages.
"Such a waste. All of their hard work and this is all that remains. Can you girls help?" she asked with tears in her eyes.
Anna and Alice began trying to get any additional information. Gretta was only able to confirm its age and authenticity.
Lisa had a thought and shared it with those of us not occupied, "Kayla, you told us the Faerie Queen can go anywhere and anytime from the Faerie Realm. Can she go back far enough to retrieve a copy that is complete?"
"I can ask," I replied and began searching for the hidden door to the Faerie Realm.
I felt an old, rather stale, place that felt somewhat familiar. Finding nothing else, I approached the Bishops.
"Excuse me, but do either of you know why the portal to the Faerie Realm feels unused," I asked gingerly.
Lord Bishop answered, "One of my predecesors sealed it, and all others he could find. No portal to the Faerie Realm functions inside the cloister grounds."
We seven and Treena were shocked. Lord Bishop went on to tell us that some brothers and sisters were being tempted to enter the Faerie Realm through these portals when their tasks became too difficult, strict, or boring. He said at least six members went through and never returned. They have been sealed ever since. We all decided to hunt for an active one tomorrow.
The light from the small window was waining and the evening bell would sound soon. Treena charged the Bishops to teach the proper pronunciation, a guide was still intact in the book. She also charged us to find a complete copy as soon as possible, then left.
After Treena left, Lord Bishop approached me, "I meant to ask you earlier. How was it possible for you to appear in my office out of nowhere?"
"We have discovered, by accident, that I can access kirlan in times of danger," I told him.
" 'Kirlan'?" Lady Bishop interrupted, "The land of the dead?"
"It is not the land of the dead. It is an in-between place dragons use to transport from one area to another instantly," I gently corrected her.
"Your dragon goes in and out of kirlan frequently?" Lord Bishop asked as Lady Bishop tried to correct her thinking.
"Yes, but he is still a baby, only two months out of the shell, he does not go far or for very long."
"Only two months? But he is large," Lady Bishop piped again.
"Emperor dragons grow faster and larger than other dragons, riding or wild," I informed them.
Lord Bishop went white while Lady Bishop stammered. My sisters and I looked at each other in confusion. The pair began a rapid discussion between themselves.
"Emperor from kirlan."
"Ancient treasure re-discovered."
"Old laws returned and new laws destroyed."
"Forgotten made fresh."
"Myth made flesh."
"Kayla," Lord Bishop suddenly addressed me, "did you say you were heir to the Faerie Queen?"
"Yes, sir. When she crosses into the Immortal Realm for the last time, I will take her place as Faerie Queen," I told him honestly.
"Royalty from a far place," they chimed together.
"Actually," Sarah interrupted, "Kayla is not the only one of royal blood. Callie is related to and decended from dwarf kings. Alice is a lord's daughter. Lisa is the daughter of a gentleman commander."
The Bishops looked at each other and said as one, "They shall come from all corners to your aid."
Looking back at us, Lord Bishop spoke while Lady Bishop excused herself and left quickly.
"Our Oracle's last prophesy told of great forces coming to our aid from far and varied places. She also spoke of a 'broken bridge' being repaired. It is our belief you are the fulfillment of this prophesy. We will discuss this on the morrow. Please, return to you quarters, tend your animals, and do what you need to do until the evening meal bell. My leaders and I have much to discuss."
We bowed and left, stepping to the side as Lady Bishop and several other clerics hurried into the office.
We made our way to our room. We were surprised to see all of our gear and belongings had been brought in and piled chaotically in a corner. We all checked and found nothing amiss. Anna quickly arranged it all as Lisa checked on Bo, Alice on Dawn, and I Set. We pulled the swords from their hiding places and checked their states. It felt good to hold Vanity once again. We discussed the prophesy and felt the change the discussion was having on the cloister.
When the bell rang, the information quickly spread to the other clerics. We decided to strap on the swords, under our robes, in case they were needed.
As we walked, I could feel the stares of the clerics. Our table was circumvented by almost everyone. Only the servers approached us, but did not speak to us. We stood with the rest when the Bishops entered. They stood and Lord Bishop addressed the assembly.
"Brothers and sisters, much has happened today. As many already know, a prophesy is being fulfilled as we speak. I am sure you felt the magic at today's mass. That was the true language of our order spoken by true believers. Since mass, our ancient book has been recovered, a goddess has visited us, and old thought have been shown false. You will all be told the true content of our holy book as best we can as some of its pages are missing. Our new novices were present and heard the true language. Girls, could you lead us in a prayer over tonight's meal? We will try to follow along as best and accurately as we can. You are permitted to speak for this."
Slowly, we rose and cleared our throats. Fortunately, Treena must have been listening as she sent us a simple, easy to remember prayer. Together, we intoned the words.
"Vae lorcha con do teai ducha coreteach nacha morvo lotma vaduce aulcha lua."
This we repeated four times. Some of the open ones picked it up after a few words the first time. Others, including Lady Bishop, struggled through the whole thing each time. However, those of us speaking it correctly produced not only a purification of the food, but an effect that raced through the area previously cleaned, picking off a few dark spots that had developed between mass and meal time. When it reached the edge of that area, it pushed the perimeter out another twenty to thirty feet. This placed a few more buildings in the town within this cleaned area.
We sat down and began eating. Around me, I could see the shifting auras and feel the changing attitudes. Some auras were becoming larger and brighter and they were happy about this news. Others, however, were growing smaller and darker and I could feel anger and hatred towards us. I was glad to have the comfort of Vanity upon my hip with all of these emotions whirling around.
"Something is not right," Sarah commented, "I feel an illness creeping back into the area that was just cleaned."
"I know," I replied, "There are clerics here who wish us harm. Why, I cannot tell."
"I see Lady Bishop meeting with other clerics, several calling for our deaths or, at least, expulsion from the cloister. For some reason, she has not told the others our true identities. The others think we are just novices," Alice informed us.
We saw some staring at us, but I could tell none of them understood our mental speaking. We puzzled over this until our swords vibrated. They relayed that they were distorting our conversation so no others could understand us.
As soon as we were allowed to leave, we headed back to our room. Just before turning the corner, I stopped my sisters.
"Our room is being searched."
They were horrified and concerned. We heard the door bang and watched them march pass us, very angry. We went to our room and saw nothing had gone untouched. Before they could ask, Set returned with all of our belongings, obviously tired.
"I heard people running, yelling about you having personal stuff and how it wasn't fair. So, I pulled it all together and popped to a cave I found. When I felt you arrive, I came back."
He became the middle of a massive hug. We praised him for his quick thinking and unique solution. We pulled Mattis' mats out as we re-ordered the room. Before the night bell, our room showed no sign that anyone had done anything to disorder the place. No one checked on us that night.
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Days 227-228 (205th-206th)
Day 227 (205th):
We awoke to activity as the camp was being broken down and everyone what going their separate ways. Jacobo volunteered to escort us to Crialas.
Even though the sky was clear and snow lay heavy on the ground, the land looked gray and ashy. Sarah and Lisa confirmed the sickness of the land, yet could not pinpoint its source.
Jacobo chattered away as we rode, telling us his trips. I admit that I only half-listened. The land had my attention. Even in the snow, there should have been some animal life. Set commented on the lack.
"Where are all the furries? I can't hear or smell any except the horses," Set's mind voice was sorrowful.
"The land is sick. The animals left or died. Starlight sent us here to fix it," I informed him.
He whimpered, "I guess there will be no hunting for me while we're here."
"We have enough food for you. Besides, you can pop back to Raval, Selvis, or Thantos to hunt."
"I need more practice to get that far. I only found the Faerie Realm through the door in the garden and by smell. I don't want to get lost by popping so far away. Maybe I can find some rats in Crialas."
We agreed that it would be best to wait until we reached Crialas or a permanent town. I opened the supply bag on my saddle so he could grab food when he needed it.
I returned my attention to Jacobo when he indicated something ahead. Snow had been piled upon the road, blocking it completely. We were a mile away from it.
"Ladies, this looks suspicious. Be on guard," Jacobo warned.
We all felt around. About a dozen males of various races here hiding behind the snow, evil intent pouring from all of them. We informed Jacobo. He started to panic, but we calmed him.
"Let us take care of this. It is what we do," Gretta gently told him.
He bowed and reined his horse behind us. Seven swords were drawn simultaneously. We pointed at the snow mound and directed their energy towards those hiding. The magic raced to bridge the gap between us. It pierced the snow and slammed into the men. Even a mile away, we heard them shout at each other and weapons clash. Around the mound, they fought and argued. We slowly approached, keeping our eyes on them. Even a quarter mile from them, they were too involved in their own arguments to notice us. When we rode around the mound, we saw their gear, remaining weapons, plus the items stolen from other travelers.
We were well out of sight when I felt some of them returning to their former states. Jacobo was still shaken but maintained an outwardly calm appearance.
By sunset, we found an abandoned barn that was dry and snow-free. We made camp and worked to get Jacobo over his fear. He was still a bit shaky when we went to sleep. Set found a few mice to eat.
Day 228 (206th):
The fire was dead when we awoke. Jacobo was nowhere to be found. I could not feel him nor could my sisters. We could feel his residual energy and found it jumbled and chaotic. We pushed it aside to concentrate on which direction led to Crialas. I picked up a piece of straw and laid it flat on my hand.
"Fate, faithful patron, show us the way to Crialas. We are desperately needed there to heal this land."
The straw spun rapidly, then stopped. The point away from me split to form an arrow that pointed northwest.
The road was clear and the sky cloudless as we headed out. The land was getting grayer and more ashy as the day went on. Sarah wept a few times as the sickness moved her greatly. Even Lisa wiped away a tear or two as we rode. Anna could provide no history on the land, saying that it was "concealed" by the illness that lay as thick as the snow.
Around mid-day, Set commented that he smelled smoke. We looked around and saw a pillar of smoke rising behind us. Feeling out, I told the others that our barn form last night was being torched. We were all puzzled. It was abandoned.What reason would anyone have to set it ablaze? The land's illness made feeling people difficult from this distance. Set volunteered to "pop a peek" at the area to see if any were around. He vanished. We stayed put to assure him a stable return point. He returned in an inglorious splat in the snow. He shook himself as he flew up to our saddle.
"The men from the road set the barn on fire. One of them was holding Jacobo by a leash. He looked scared but the others were angry. They were yelling at him and each other and hunting for us. One of them saw me and yelled. I panicked and popped back," he informed us.
We headed back to the northwest at a faster pace. We speculated that Jacobo was suppose to lead us into an ambush but, when we affected them, that plan failed. Jacobo, probably, thought we would wait for his return and let ourselves be captured like the "foolish girls" they believed we were. Our only hope was to get to a town or settlement before nightfall and alert the authorities to the situation. I let the others take the lead while I withdrew to seek out Fate.
"Fate, my patron, I need your guidance."
"Speak, my dear, what troubles you so?"
"Bandits follow us, their intentions are unclear bu threatening. We need shelter and allies, hopefully soon."
There was silence for a moment.
"A few miles ahead, the road forks. Take the left fork. A town is ten miles after that. It is a place loyal to Crialas and two clerics know Starlight has sent for you. They will be your allies."
"Thank you, Fate. I will let everyone know it was you who guided us."
She laughed as we parted, giving me an almost tangible embrace before she left. I returned my attention back to our group. I informed my sisters and Set of her words.
Lisa piped, "They are probably galloping to catch us. Even at a gallop ourselves, we may be caught before we reach this town."
Fate's wind blew through me. I looked up and smiled.
"They will not know our path. Plus, they will be slowed."
Before any could ask, snow began to fall around us. My sisters laughed and we slowed to keep the horses from faltering. At the fork, a sign pointed towards what lay ahead down either road. Lisa and Alice giggled upon reading the elfish words. Alice told us the town we were headed toward, Aurdoahrn, was an elf word for "ally".
We did not have to search for the clerics as they were standing just inside the town's border. A male and female elf greeted us and ushered us inside a stable.
"The horses will stay here," said the male elf, "It will draw less attention if we walk. Please, put these robes on. We have told others that we were expecting novices from another cloister."
He handed us plain, brown, hooded robes that, when we put them on, covered us completely to the point they drug in the falling snow. They must have planned ahead for mine was large enough for Set to hide underneath and had more material to obliterate our footprints so no one knew who or what was under all that cloth. Dawn and Bo were likewise hidden. The elves walked ahead of us, instructing us to keep our heads down, hands hidden, and watch the feet of the person in front of us.
"As novices, you are assumed to have taken the year long vow of silence," the female told us, "No one will address you, speak to you, or barely acknowledge your existence. Until we say, you are 'non-people'. Others, in the village, will refer to you as 'shadows' or 'shades'. Do not take it personally. It has been this way for centuries. Plus, it keeps racial bias to a minimum, as those outside the cloister do not know what races you are until you are full clerics, if you were truly novices of our order. The convent and monastery are in an ancient fortress. Males and females work and sleep apart, but eat and worship in the same room, separated, at the same time. Your dragon, snake, and bird will have to remain hidden, as they are seen as personal property and that is prohibited. Same for the swords. Please, follow us."
We silently lined up behind them as they walked side-by-side in the dark and snow. A few torches lit our way as we marched. I felt other people watching us from windows and doors. Many were simply curious while a few plotted to find out who and what we were to see if we were "allowed" to be clerics of "their" religion. One or two ran toward the stables. Lisa faltered.
"Be still," the male told her, "Your horses and gear are safe. They are simply curious and think looking at them will tell them your identities. Other than the dragon basket, there is nothing to mark you. Come along."
We continued in silence to an archaic fortress made of heavy stone without any ornamentation or decoration to break up its blank facade. The male bid us good-night and entered the right side section of the building. The female led us into the left. The interior was as bland as the exterior.
"You will bunk together. No other female novices are here right now. You have it to yourselves. Let you animals know that they must stay out of sight of any, save myself and the Bishop, the male elf who just left. I am also called Bishop, Lady Bishop actually. Please keep your mental chatter to a minimum as there are sensitive people here who wish their silence. We ring bells to get up, eat, hold mass, and sleep. I will send a trusted sister to help you appear as novices until safe transport can be arranged."
Sarah stepped forward. Lady Bishop acknowledged her and allowed her to speak.
"Bandits were pursuing us and forcing a bard named Jacobo to aid them. They burned an old barn about half a day's ride from the fork in the road in their search for us."
Lady Bishop held up her hand to stop Sarah, "Thank you for that information. I will alert our constable and tell him of Jacobo. Are you ready for bed or do you require anything?"
We asked for something to eat as food was forgotten in our hurry to reach safety. She nodded and said food would be brought to us then we were expected to go to sleep. We understood and thanked her.
Once she left, we made ourselves as comfortable as we could. The bunks were hard. We discussed calling for our mats, but decided that we could tough it out for a while. I felt someone coming close to our door and bid the others to be silent. The knock was light and Sarah opened the door to allow another brown robed person to enter. In silence, food was placed on a table and the person left.
The food wasn't bad, just rather plain, but the area's taint was palatable. Not long after we finished, another light knock preceded the same person who gathered the dishes and left.
The door had barely closed when Alice, Anna, and I were questioned about the server. We told the rest that "it" was a man, a human eunic actually, "sold" to the cloister by his master who was trying to purge himself of anything "unnatural". Many in this area, once the illness was felt, took to clearing out anything they thought caused or contributed to it, particularly living things. He had been at the cloister for years and the only male allowed in the women's areas.
We quickly got to bed when I felt an other's presence moving through the hall. It was dark and quiet when she arrived at the door. A round face poked in from the barely open door. She nodded slightly and closed it quietly. We settled in as best we could and went to sleep.
We awoke to activity as the camp was being broken down and everyone what going their separate ways. Jacobo volunteered to escort us to Crialas.
Even though the sky was clear and snow lay heavy on the ground, the land looked gray and ashy. Sarah and Lisa confirmed the sickness of the land, yet could not pinpoint its source.
Jacobo chattered away as we rode, telling us his trips. I admit that I only half-listened. The land had my attention. Even in the snow, there should have been some animal life. Set commented on the lack.
"Where are all the furries? I can't hear or smell any except the horses," Set's mind voice was sorrowful.
"The land is sick. The animals left or died. Starlight sent us here to fix it," I informed him.
He whimpered, "I guess there will be no hunting for me while we're here."
"We have enough food for you. Besides, you can pop back to Raval, Selvis, or Thantos to hunt."
"I need more practice to get that far. I only found the Faerie Realm through the door in the garden and by smell. I don't want to get lost by popping so far away. Maybe I can find some rats in Crialas."
We agreed that it would be best to wait until we reached Crialas or a permanent town. I opened the supply bag on my saddle so he could grab food when he needed it.
I returned my attention to Jacobo when he indicated something ahead. Snow had been piled upon the road, blocking it completely. We were a mile away from it.
"Ladies, this looks suspicious. Be on guard," Jacobo warned.
We all felt around. About a dozen males of various races here hiding behind the snow, evil intent pouring from all of them. We informed Jacobo. He started to panic, but we calmed him.
"Let us take care of this. It is what we do," Gretta gently told him.
He bowed and reined his horse behind us. Seven swords were drawn simultaneously. We pointed at the snow mound and directed their energy towards those hiding. The magic raced to bridge the gap between us. It pierced the snow and slammed into the men. Even a mile away, we heard them shout at each other and weapons clash. Around the mound, they fought and argued. We slowly approached, keeping our eyes on them. Even a quarter mile from them, they were too involved in their own arguments to notice us. When we rode around the mound, we saw their gear, remaining weapons, plus the items stolen from other travelers.
We were well out of sight when I felt some of them returning to their former states. Jacobo was still shaken but maintained an outwardly calm appearance.
By sunset, we found an abandoned barn that was dry and snow-free. We made camp and worked to get Jacobo over his fear. He was still a bit shaky when we went to sleep. Set found a few mice to eat.
Day 228 (206th):
The fire was dead when we awoke. Jacobo was nowhere to be found. I could not feel him nor could my sisters. We could feel his residual energy and found it jumbled and chaotic. We pushed it aside to concentrate on which direction led to Crialas. I picked up a piece of straw and laid it flat on my hand.
"Fate, faithful patron, show us the way to Crialas. We are desperately needed there to heal this land."
The straw spun rapidly, then stopped. The point away from me split to form an arrow that pointed northwest.
The road was clear and the sky cloudless as we headed out. The land was getting grayer and more ashy as the day went on. Sarah wept a few times as the sickness moved her greatly. Even Lisa wiped away a tear or two as we rode. Anna could provide no history on the land, saying that it was "concealed" by the illness that lay as thick as the snow.
Around mid-day, Set commented that he smelled smoke. We looked around and saw a pillar of smoke rising behind us. Feeling out, I told the others that our barn form last night was being torched. We were all puzzled. It was abandoned.What reason would anyone have to set it ablaze? The land's illness made feeling people difficult from this distance. Set volunteered to "pop a peek" at the area to see if any were around. He vanished. We stayed put to assure him a stable return point. He returned in an inglorious splat in the snow. He shook himself as he flew up to our saddle.
"The men from the road set the barn on fire. One of them was holding Jacobo by a leash. He looked scared but the others were angry. They were yelling at him and each other and hunting for us. One of them saw me and yelled. I panicked and popped back," he informed us.
We headed back to the northwest at a faster pace. We speculated that Jacobo was suppose to lead us into an ambush but, when we affected them, that plan failed. Jacobo, probably, thought we would wait for his return and let ourselves be captured like the "foolish girls" they believed we were. Our only hope was to get to a town or settlement before nightfall and alert the authorities to the situation. I let the others take the lead while I withdrew to seek out Fate.
"Fate, my patron, I need your guidance."
"Speak, my dear, what troubles you so?"
"Bandits follow us, their intentions are unclear bu threatening. We need shelter and allies, hopefully soon."
There was silence for a moment.
"A few miles ahead, the road forks. Take the left fork. A town is ten miles after that. It is a place loyal to Crialas and two clerics know Starlight has sent for you. They will be your allies."
"Thank you, Fate. I will let everyone know it was you who guided us."
She laughed as we parted, giving me an almost tangible embrace before she left. I returned my attention back to our group. I informed my sisters and Set of her words.
Lisa piped, "They are probably galloping to catch us. Even at a gallop ourselves, we may be caught before we reach this town."
Fate's wind blew through me. I looked up and smiled.
"They will not know our path. Plus, they will be slowed."
Before any could ask, snow began to fall around us. My sisters laughed and we slowed to keep the horses from faltering. At the fork, a sign pointed towards what lay ahead down either road. Lisa and Alice giggled upon reading the elfish words. Alice told us the town we were headed toward, Aurdoahrn, was an elf word for "ally".
We did not have to search for the clerics as they were standing just inside the town's border. A male and female elf greeted us and ushered us inside a stable.
"The horses will stay here," said the male elf, "It will draw less attention if we walk. Please, put these robes on. We have told others that we were expecting novices from another cloister."
He handed us plain, brown, hooded robes that, when we put them on, covered us completely to the point they drug in the falling snow. They must have planned ahead for mine was large enough for Set to hide underneath and had more material to obliterate our footprints so no one knew who or what was under all that cloth. Dawn and Bo were likewise hidden. The elves walked ahead of us, instructing us to keep our heads down, hands hidden, and watch the feet of the person in front of us.
"As novices, you are assumed to have taken the year long vow of silence," the female told us, "No one will address you, speak to you, or barely acknowledge your existence. Until we say, you are 'non-people'. Others, in the village, will refer to you as 'shadows' or 'shades'. Do not take it personally. It has been this way for centuries. Plus, it keeps racial bias to a minimum, as those outside the cloister do not know what races you are until you are full clerics, if you were truly novices of our order. The convent and monastery are in an ancient fortress. Males and females work and sleep apart, but eat and worship in the same room, separated, at the same time. Your dragon, snake, and bird will have to remain hidden, as they are seen as personal property and that is prohibited. Same for the swords. Please, follow us."
We silently lined up behind them as they walked side-by-side in the dark and snow. A few torches lit our way as we marched. I felt other people watching us from windows and doors. Many were simply curious while a few plotted to find out who and what we were to see if we were "allowed" to be clerics of "their" religion. One or two ran toward the stables. Lisa faltered.
"Be still," the male told her, "Your horses and gear are safe. They are simply curious and think looking at them will tell them your identities. Other than the dragon basket, there is nothing to mark you. Come along."
We continued in silence to an archaic fortress made of heavy stone without any ornamentation or decoration to break up its blank facade. The male bid us good-night and entered the right side section of the building. The female led us into the left. The interior was as bland as the exterior.
"You will bunk together. No other female novices are here right now. You have it to yourselves. Let you animals know that they must stay out of sight of any, save myself and the Bishop, the male elf who just left. I am also called Bishop, Lady Bishop actually. Please keep your mental chatter to a minimum as there are sensitive people here who wish their silence. We ring bells to get up, eat, hold mass, and sleep. I will send a trusted sister to help you appear as novices until safe transport can be arranged."
Sarah stepped forward. Lady Bishop acknowledged her and allowed her to speak.
"Bandits were pursuing us and forcing a bard named Jacobo to aid them. They burned an old barn about half a day's ride from the fork in the road in their search for us."
Lady Bishop held up her hand to stop Sarah, "Thank you for that information. I will alert our constable and tell him of Jacobo. Are you ready for bed or do you require anything?"
We asked for something to eat as food was forgotten in our hurry to reach safety. She nodded and said food would be brought to us then we were expected to go to sleep. We understood and thanked her.
Once she left, we made ourselves as comfortable as we could. The bunks were hard. We discussed calling for our mats, but decided that we could tough it out for a while. I felt someone coming close to our door and bid the others to be silent. The knock was light and Sarah opened the door to allow another brown robed person to enter. In silence, food was placed on a table and the person left.
The food wasn't bad, just rather plain, but the area's taint was palatable. Not long after we finished, another light knock preceded the same person who gathered the dishes and left.
The door had barely closed when Alice, Anna, and I were questioned about the server. We told the rest that "it" was a man, a human eunic actually, "sold" to the cloister by his master who was trying to purge himself of anything "unnatural". Many in this area, once the illness was felt, took to clearing out anything they thought caused or contributed to it, particularly living things. He had been at the cloister for years and the only male allowed in the women's areas.
We quickly got to bed when I felt an other's presence moving through the hall. It was dark and quiet when she arrived at the door. A round face poked in from the barely open door. She nodded slightly and closed it quietly. We settled in as best we could and went to sleep.
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Day 226 (204th)****START OF "BOOK"****
******************START OF SECOND "BOOK"***************************
Day 226 (204th):
We awoke as dawn was sifting through the trees. The curtain was parted and we entered while leaving our stuff outside. The temple was so different from the last time we were there. The place felt cozy and inviting instead of dead and empty. The gold bowl with the special water reflected the light from the hole and crystals above it to fill the cave with light. Sarah's pride widened a bit as she remembered a member of her new family had gathered this special water. As we approached, the bowl began to glow and a mist rose from the water. It poured from one side and formed a foggy pillar. This shaped itself into a tall female with moon pale skin and brilliantly white hair.
"Good morning, ladies, and welcome to my mortal home. I hope this is improved from the last time you saw it," Starlight said in a breathy voice.
"Much improved, my Lady," Sarah responded, bowing slightly.
Starlight laughed, sounding like tiny bells, "Do not be so formal. We meet as friends. A friend who needs your aid, dear girls."
Lisa stepped forward, "What troubles you so, Starlight? It must be grave if it bothers you this much."
"It is. Crialas is dying. During their time as deers, the royal couple could not perform the ritual that maintained their kingdom's tie to the other races and powers. The chancellor tried, but was not accepted. The fey, elemental beings, and other powers have, over the centuries, abandoned Crialas. The Royal Pair, upon their return, tried to re-establish that tie, but the decay was too great. They have pleaded to me, but my powers are not able to reverse this death or re-establish the tie. My hope, and their's, is that you seven can cure Crialas just as you cured Selvis. Will you do it, dear ladies?" Starlight asked, nearly weeping.
There was no debate. We told her that we needed to gather our gear and we would return. She smiled and told us that the gate would be open and ready for us upon our return. Alice asked if a message could be sent to her father, explaining her delay in returning to Thantos. The lead unicorn said he would take care of delivering her message. We went back to our camp and gathered gear and horses. It was a tight fit, but we all managed to fit inside the temple.
Upon entering, we saw a large arched doorway formed from the mist rising out of the golden bowl. Starlight assured us the horses would calmly cross with us. She thanked us as we walked through......
......and into ankle-deep snow. We mounted quickly to avoid our boots and shoes from getting soaked. The horses quickly found a path that was free of snow. We stopped to put on cloaks and additional clothes. While doing this, I felt for Crialas or any populated area. I felt many entities, but did not locate any large populations. Alice and Anna, from the trail, found which way we needed to travel. It was earlier in the morning when we arrived than when we had left Starlight's temple.
The snow-free path appeared to be a well traveled road year around. We encountered many travelers, who confirmed we were going the right way to Crialas. Those that spoke with us told us of the decline the area had been going through over the centuries. Those that didn't still radiated both worry and uncertainty.
Just before nightfall, we arrived at a recently erected camp. The snow was cleared away and straw and sawdust laid down to absorb the moisture and provide relatively dry ground. We were greeted warmly and allowed an area to make camp.
My sisters noticed what I was sensing: curiosity and suspicion. Dawn received a few stares. Bo received a few glances, but nothing more. Set was under constant surveillance. A knot of men followed us to the spot we were assigned. One separated from the group and confronted us.
"Ladies, who's beast is this?"
"Sarroset is my riding dragon. I am his rider," I said and showed him my rider's bracelet.
"You are Demagram? You are a dragon rider?"
"Yes, sir."
He turned and spoke with the others. A couple did not seem convinced nor swayed. One of them broke away and angrily charged at us.
"Riding or wild, dragons are the scourge of the world! I will rid us of this blight!" he shouted as he brandished a hatchet.
He stopped when seven swords nearly materialized in his face. A voice from outside our groups broke the tension.
"Sisters! Stand down! He is no threat!" a thin man yelled as he ran from the darkness.
This man pushed the other man back to his companions. He spoke quickly and quietly with them. We did not sheath the swords but relaxed our guard a bit.
"Alice, can you feel them out?" more than one of us asked mentally.
"The skinny man saw us in Thantos and Raval. He is explaining who and what we are. They are speculating why we are here and why now. The one who confronted us has survived dragon attacks. He is convinced the problems in Crialas are directly related to the presence of dragons," she told us.
The skinny man and the group returned to us. The angry one spoke to us first.
"My apologies. I did not understand who I was confronting. Do not think ill of me."
"I know you have suffered because of dragons," I gently told him, "but dragons normally only attack when provoked. You many not have known who did it, but every attack was in retaliation for someone wronging a dragon."
They looked at us in shocked silence. Another quietly whispered, "It is true. They can see what is hidden."
The skinny man come forward, "Sisters, I am Jacobo, a traveling bard. You sold me some ancient songs in Thantos. I also witnessed the Feast of Spring encounter and had my own marriage proposal returned to me with the Faerie Queen's seal at High Summer. These songs have made me welcome in places I never dreamed of entering. As a favor, a dragon rider brought me to this land after I received an invitation to play for a local lord. I have been traveling, telling your tales, and sharing news from that land. Please, share a fire with us and tell us what brings you to this place."
We all built a fire and gathered around it. We told Jacobo and the others of what had happened since High Summer. Many others gathered as we spoke. Food and drink were shared among all. Even Set got into the telling by providing demonstrations of the dragons' actions during our tale.
It was very late when we finished. Thunderous clapping and cheer erupted as we concluded our story. Jacobo and his group thanked us for the information. We saw merchants begin planning trips to Selvis, now that the Baalocs were gone. We all went to our areas and fell into exhausted slumber.
Day 226 (204th):
We awoke as dawn was sifting through the trees. The curtain was parted and we entered while leaving our stuff outside. The temple was so different from the last time we were there. The place felt cozy and inviting instead of dead and empty. The gold bowl with the special water reflected the light from the hole and crystals above it to fill the cave with light. Sarah's pride widened a bit as she remembered a member of her new family had gathered this special water. As we approached, the bowl began to glow and a mist rose from the water. It poured from one side and formed a foggy pillar. This shaped itself into a tall female with moon pale skin and brilliantly white hair.
"Good morning, ladies, and welcome to my mortal home. I hope this is improved from the last time you saw it," Starlight said in a breathy voice.
"Much improved, my Lady," Sarah responded, bowing slightly.
Starlight laughed, sounding like tiny bells, "Do not be so formal. We meet as friends. A friend who needs your aid, dear girls."
Lisa stepped forward, "What troubles you so, Starlight? It must be grave if it bothers you this much."
"It is. Crialas is dying. During their time as deers, the royal couple could not perform the ritual that maintained their kingdom's tie to the other races and powers. The chancellor tried, but was not accepted. The fey, elemental beings, and other powers have, over the centuries, abandoned Crialas. The Royal Pair, upon their return, tried to re-establish that tie, but the decay was too great. They have pleaded to me, but my powers are not able to reverse this death or re-establish the tie. My hope, and their's, is that you seven can cure Crialas just as you cured Selvis. Will you do it, dear ladies?" Starlight asked, nearly weeping.
There was no debate. We told her that we needed to gather our gear and we would return. She smiled and told us that the gate would be open and ready for us upon our return. Alice asked if a message could be sent to her father, explaining her delay in returning to Thantos. The lead unicorn said he would take care of delivering her message. We went back to our camp and gathered gear and horses. It was a tight fit, but we all managed to fit inside the temple.
Upon entering, we saw a large arched doorway formed from the mist rising out of the golden bowl. Starlight assured us the horses would calmly cross with us. She thanked us as we walked through......
......and into ankle-deep snow. We mounted quickly to avoid our boots and shoes from getting soaked. The horses quickly found a path that was free of snow. We stopped to put on cloaks and additional clothes. While doing this, I felt for Crialas or any populated area. I felt many entities, but did not locate any large populations. Alice and Anna, from the trail, found which way we needed to travel. It was earlier in the morning when we arrived than when we had left Starlight's temple.
The snow-free path appeared to be a well traveled road year around. We encountered many travelers, who confirmed we were going the right way to Crialas. Those that spoke with us told us of the decline the area had been going through over the centuries. Those that didn't still radiated both worry and uncertainty.
Just before nightfall, we arrived at a recently erected camp. The snow was cleared away and straw and sawdust laid down to absorb the moisture and provide relatively dry ground. We were greeted warmly and allowed an area to make camp.
My sisters noticed what I was sensing: curiosity and suspicion. Dawn received a few stares. Bo received a few glances, but nothing more. Set was under constant surveillance. A knot of men followed us to the spot we were assigned. One separated from the group and confronted us.
"Ladies, who's beast is this?"
"Sarroset is my riding dragon. I am his rider," I said and showed him my rider's bracelet.
"You are Demagram? You are a dragon rider?"
"Yes, sir."
He turned and spoke with the others. A couple did not seem convinced nor swayed. One of them broke away and angrily charged at us.
"Riding or wild, dragons are the scourge of the world! I will rid us of this blight!" he shouted as he brandished a hatchet.
He stopped when seven swords nearly materialized in his face. A voice from outside our groups broke the tension.
"Sisters! Stand down! He is no threat!" a thin man yelled as he ran from the darkness.
This man pushed the other man back to his companions. He spoke quickly and quietly with them. We did not sheath the swords but relaxed our guard a bit.
"Alice, can you feel them out?" more than one of us asked mentally.
"The skinny man saw us in Thantos and Raval. He is explaining who and what we are. They are speculating why we are here and why now. The one who confronted us has survived dragon attacks. He is convinced the problems in Crialas are directly related to the presence of dragons," she told us.
The skinny man and the group returned to us. The angry one spoke to us first.
"My apologies. I did not understand who I was confronting. Do not think ill of me."
"I know you have suffered because of dragons," I gently told him, "but dragons normally only attack when provoked. You many not have known who did it, but every attack was in retaliation for someone wronging a dragon."
They looked at us in shocked silence. Another quietly whispered, "It is true. They can see what is hidden."
The skinny man come forward, "Sisters, I am Jacobo, a traveling bard. You sold me some ancient songs in Thantos. I also witnessed the Feast of Spring encounter and had my own marriage proposal returned to me with the Faerie Queen's seal at High Summer. These songs have made me welcome in places I never dreamed of entering. As a favor, a dragon rider brought me to this land after I received an invitation to play for a local lord. I have been traveling, telling your tales, and sharing news from that land. Please, share a fire with us and tell us what brings you to this place."
We all built a fire and gathered around it. We told Jacobo and the others of what had happened since High Summer. Many others gathered as we spoke. Food and drink were shared among all. Even Set got into the telling by providing demonstrations of the dragons' actions during our tale.
It was very late when we finished. Thunderous clapping and cheer erupted as we concluded our story. Jacobo and his group thanked us for the information. We saw merchants begin planning trips to Selvis, now that the Baalocs were gone. We all went to our areas and fell into exhausted slumber.
Days 217-225 (195th-203rd) *****END OF "BOOK"**
Day 217 (195th):
We awoke just as the sun was rising. I felt a lot more people around the palace than normal. Looking outside revealed a crowd gathered outside the front doors. A servant brought in some breakfast while two behind her were burdened with armfuls of stuff. While the food was laid upon the table the other two laid the stuff on an empty bed. They all left. We investigated the items as we ate. Most were small trinkets, notes, and other inexpensive items. We were pondering these things when three more entered, equally burdened with more stuff. The bed was half covered when they left. This was unbelievable. We wondered what to do with them when three more entered and buried the bed even more. Now we knew we could not carry all of these things. Kendar, Mattis, Mara, and Gavin entered followed by three more servants with enough to finish covering the rest of the bed. They looked at the hidden bed and everything hiding it.
"I hate to tell you," Kendar began, "but that is barely a quarter of what if piling up downstairs."
We were all shocked.
"What are they for and how are we suppose to take all of this with us?" Alice asked, genuinely worried.
"They are gifts of gratitude from the people of Selvis Prime to send you out into the world," Mara informed us.
"As for carrying them," Gavin piped in, "the horses can only carry so much."
"Horses? What horses?" Anna asked.
"That is part of our gift to you," Mara replied smiling, "Plus saddles, tack, and bags with supplies included."
We started to protest, but they insisted that it was a small token of the deep appreciation they had for all we had done. We accepted with trepidation. They left. We told the servants to stop bringing up the stuff.
After we were alone, I thought of a way to deal with these gifts.
"Gretta and Callie, please find all the items we can use to fund our journey."
They understood and began sorting.
"Sarah and Lisa, please collect the notes. We can bless the writers before we leave."
They nodded and took up their tasks.
"Anna and Alice, please see if there are any useful things for our travels."
They began looking as well. I picked out the items I could see were tainted to outright cursed. These Set got to burn. Once everyone was done, we encircled the remaining items.
"Aloriana, Queen of the Faeries, please take these gifts to the Faerie Realm to be of any use you can conceive," we intoned together.
The items began to glow, then vanished. However, a few rough stones remained. We confusedly examined them. I could see nothing special about them. None of my sisters could either. A note materialized on the bed.
"These are 'stone seeds'. Your stone friends will be glad to see these. Have someone take them to that race. They will rejoice."
Dawn cheeped and hopped upon the bed.
"She volunteers," Alice informed us.
We found a pouch and placed the seeds in it and secured it to her leg. She inspected it, peeped, then took off out the window.
We left the bed and formed a circle around the notes Sara and Lisa held.
"Fortune, Fate, and all benevolent powers, bless the writers of these notes or those for whom they were written with the best that life may provide," we spoke as one.
The papers glowed for a moment then dissolved into ash. This ash was caught of by a breeze and carried away. We divided up the valuable and useful things equally so no one was over-burdened.
Four servants burst into the room, shouting.
"My ladies! The pile of gifts downstairs! All but a few things are gone! Many watched them glow, then vanish. They glowed a second time and all the papers turned to ash. We were told to gather what was left and bring it up here to keep the rest from begin stolen," Mina told us.
They dumped apron-fulls of coins, trinkets, and a few useful items, exactly what we had sorted out on the bed. No stone seeds were among them. We were both amazed and glad not to have to go through all of that again. We assured them nothing was stolen. Once we explained what really happened, they relaxed and left to relay the information to the others. We left soon after.
Downstairs, as soon as we were seen, a cheer erupted. It startled us, even Bo jerked. They continued to cheer as we exited the front and the noise increased. Outside, both royal families, Kendar, Mattis, plus other friends stood near the horses. The noise died down when we got to them. Gavin stepped towards us.
"Sisters of the Swords, we cannot thank you for all you have done to rebirth the Kingdom of Selvis. The items you have been given are but a token of our gratitude. While we wish you would stay here, we know you have obligations elsewhere. All of you will be always welcome in Selvis Prime and Selvis Kingdom."
Another loud cheer roared. We were aided into the saddle. Mine had a special addition for Set to ride in as well. People lined the streets and formed a living corridor from the palace to the city gates. More items were handed to us as we rode between the mass of people. Our sorting magic was still in effect as non-valuable items with little use vanished after they were handed to us. It warmed our hearts to see centaur beside elf beside human beside dwarf beside gnome without discomfort, fear, or hatred.
It was after mid-day when we exited the gates. It was then when we decided to head back to Thantos to get Alice back to her duties as a lord's daughter. We decided to go back through Brimgrove as it was the fastest and most direct route. We ate in the saddle. Set disappeared from time to time to return with fur or feathers sticking to his lips or dripping wet.
By sunset, we were out of sight of the palace and city. It felt good to sleep under the stars again.
Day 218 (196th):
We were up with the dawn. By the time we were underway, Dawn had returned to Alice with a large and heavy pouch. Alice told us that the Stone Race was elated to receive the stone seeds, which they revealed was how their race reproduced. In return, they filled a pouch with "stones valued by surface races". Gretta said it was humming. We opened it and nearly fell out of the saddles. Diamonds, rubies, emeralds, and sapphires nearly fell out of the stuffed pouch. Gretta, literally, slapped her hands over her ears.
"Close the pouch, please, it is too loud!" she shouted over the noise only she could hear.
We closed it and Lisa stowed it among her things. Gretta relaxed and said it was easier to deal with under other items. She could not even speculate on their value, but Greed gave us a number that surprised all of us. Set went over and sniffed the pouch. He stated that they smelled clean. We laughed but did not ask him to clarify. He returned to our saddle.
Not in a hurry, we were able to see the difference between when we rode towards Baaloc Prime and away from Selvis Prime. Even as it was fall, the land seemed healthier, more alive. People, animals, and plants all seemed more vibrant than before. We took this as a good sign.
As Brimgrove rose in the distance, I saw an odd energy around it. Set, Vanity and I could not place it nor determine its origin. We decided a closer look would be needed and enjoyed our journey. The horses kept a steady, easy pace as we were passed by travelers and merchants, far more than we had encountered on the ride from Brimgrove.
Days 219-222 (197th-200th):
The trip went smoothly over the reborn Selvis Kingdom. The farms we had blessed were flourishing. News of Selvis Kingdom's resurrection had reached even these far places. The large family played among rows of wheat and stacks of hay. The elderly couple invited us to stay the night, which we did. They shared the bounty their fields had produced. To their credit, they realized we had aided in their good fortune and said this was all they could do to thank us. We accepted and asked for nothing more. It saddened us to find that the man we had bought the extra horses from had died not long after our meeting. However, his son appreciated us remembering his father and all we had done to ease his final days.
Each day we got closer to Brimgrove brought the energy into clearer focus. Within a few miles, we determined it was divine energy engulfing the whole forest. We speculated that Starlight may have returned to her temple now that her bowl had been returned and properly filled.
We reached the edge of the forest by sunset.
Day 223 (201st):
We awoke to find ourselves surrounded by a herd of unicorns. I recognized our escort among the dozen or more large beings around us. A particularly large male stepped towards us and bowed.
"Greeting, Seven Sisters. It is a pleasure to meet all of you in person. Our fellows have told us about their time with you."
We were all amazed. The others had not spoken, in true words, to us during our time with them so we did not know how to react. We all stood in silence. Set broke the awkward moment.
"When did you learn to talk? They never said you spoke," he asked innocently.
They laughed, "Our voices were muffled with the drop in magic from Starlight's absence. With her return, the magic has increased to allow our voices to be heard by non-unicorns. It is nice to able to converse with the other citizens of Brimgrove."
"To what do we owe the pleasure of you company?" Alice asked in mock formality.
The large male stood at attention, "The Seven Sisters are invited to Starlight's temple. She wishes to speak with you and ask your aid."
We looked at each other puzzled. What could a goddess need for us to aid her? The unicorns surrounded us as we mounted our horses. the large male led the way. We traveled until sunset.
Days 224-225 (202nd - 203rd):
The next couple of days were filled with easy conversation. The unicorns told us what had happened in Brimgrove since we left. They told about Baaloc humans and demons attempting to hunt and harvest in Brimgrove. They confirmed that they were the cause of the single wound found on many bodies found at the forest's edge.
We reached the temple before dark, but our escort told us to wait until morning to enter. As we were being invited, we agreed to spend the night outside the vine curtain door. The area was like a garden and it was easy to relax and fall asleep there.
*********************END OF FIRST "BOOK"***************************************
We awoke just as the sun was rising. I felt a lot more people around the palace than normal. Looking outside revealed a crowd gathered outside the front doors. A servant brought in some breakfast while two behind her were burdened with armfuls of stuff. While the food was laid upon the table the other two laid the stuff on an empty bed. They all left. We investigated the items as we ate. Most were small trinkets, notes, and other inexpensive items. We were pondering these things when three more entered, equally burdened with more stuff. The bed was half covered when they left. This was unbelievable. We wondered what to do with them when three more entered and buried the bed even more. Now we knew we could not carry all of these things. Kendar, Mattis, Mara, and Gavin entered followed by three more servants with enough to finish covering the rest of the bed. They looked at the hidden bed and everything hiding it.
"I hate to tell you," Kendar began, "but that is barely a quarter of what if piling up downstairs."
We were all shocked.
"What are they for and how are we suppose to take all of this with us?" Alice asked, genuinely worried.
"They are gifts of gratitude from the people of Selvis Prime to send you out into the world," Mara informed us.
"As for carrying them," Gavin piped in, "the horses can only carry so much."
"Horses? What horses?" Anna asked.
"That is part of our gift to you," Mara replied smiling, "Plus saddles, tack, and bags with supplies included."
We started to protest, but they insisted that it was a small token of the deep appreciation they had for all we had done. We accepted with trepidation. They left. We told the servants to stop bringing up the stuff.
After we were alone, I thought of a way to deal with these gifts.
"Gretta and Callie, please find all the items we can use to fund our journey."
They understood and began sorting.
"Sarah and Lisa, please collect the notes. We can bless the writers before we leave."
They nodded and took up their tasks.
"Anna and Alice, please see if there are any useful things for our travels."
They began looking as well. I picked out the items I could see were tainted to outright cursed. These Set got to burn. Once everyone was done, we encircled the remaining items.
"Aloriana, Queen of the Faeries, please take these gifts to the Faerie Realm to be of any use you can conceive," we intoned together.
The items began to glow, then vanished. However, a few rough stones remained. We confusedly examined them. I could see nothing special about them. None of my sisters could either. A note materialized on the bed.
"These are 'stone seeds'. Your stone friends will be glad to see these. Have someone take them to that race. They will rejoice."
Dawn cheeped and hopped upon the bed.
"She volunteers," Alice informed us.
We found a pouch and placed the seeds in it and secured it to her leg. She inspected it, peeped, then took off out the window.
We left the bed and formed a circle around the notes Sara and Lisa held.
"Fortune, Fate, and all benevolent powers, bless the writers of these notes or those for whom they were written with the best that life may provide," we spoke as one.
The papers glowed for a moment then dissolved into ash. This ash was caught of by a breeze and carried away. We divided up the valuable and useful things equally so no one was over-burdened.
Four servants burst into the room, shouting.
"My ladies! The pile of gifts downstairs! All but a few things are gone! Many watched them glow, then vanish. They glowed a second time and all the papers turned to ash. We were told to gather what was left and bring it up here to keep the rest from begin stolen," Mina told us.
They dumped apron-fulls of coins, trinkets, and a few useful items, exactly what we had sorted out on the bed. No stone seeds were among them. We were both amazed and glad not to have to go through all of that again. We assured them nothing was stolen. Once we explained what really happened, they relaxed and left to relay the information to the others. We left soon after.
Downstairs, as soon as we were seen, a cheer erupted. It startled us, even Bo jerked. They continued to cheer as we exited the front and the noise increased. Outside, both royal families, Kendar, Mattis, plus other friends stood near the horses. The noise died down when we got to them. Gavin stepped towards us.
"Sisters of the Swords, we cannot thank you for all you have done to rebirth the Kingdom of Selvis. The items you have been given are but a token of our gratitude. While we wish you would stay here, we know you have obligations elsewhere. All of you will be always welcome in Selvis Prime and Selvis Kingdom."
Another loud cheer roared. We were aided into the saddle. Mine had a special addition for Set to ride in as well. People lined the streets and formed a living corridor from the palace to the city gates. More items were handed to us as we rode between the mass of people. Our sorting magic was still in effect as non-valuable items with little use vanished after they were handed to us. It warmed our hearts to see centaur beside elf beside human beside dwarf beside gnome without discomfort, fear, or hatred.
It was after mid-day when we exited the gates. It was then when we decided to head back to Thantos to get Alice back to her duties as a lord's daughter. We decided to go back through Brimgrove as it was the fastest and most direct route. We ate in the saddle. Set disappeared from time to time to return with fur or feathers sticking to his lips or dripping wet.
By sunset, we were out of sight of the palace and city. It felt good to sleep under the stars again.
Day 218 (196th):
We were up with the dawn. By the time we were underway, Dawn had returned to Alice with a large and heavy pouch. Alice told us that the Stone Race was elated to receive the stone seeds, which they revealed was how their race reproduced. In return, they filled a pouch with "stones valued by surface races". Gretta said it was humming. We opened it and nearly fell out of the saddles. Diamonds, rubies, emeralds, and sapphires nearly fell out of the stuffed pouch. Gretta, literally, slapped her hands over her ears.
"Close the pouch, please, it is too loud!" she shouted over the noise only she could hear.
We closed it and Lisa stowed it among her things. Gretta relaxed and said it was easier to deal with under other items. She could not even speculate on their value, but Greed gave us a number that surprised all of us. Set went over and sniffed the pouch. He stated that they smelled clean. We laughed but did not ask him to clarify. He returned to our saddle.
Not in a hurry, we were able to see the difference between when we rode towards Baaloc Prime and away from Selvis Prime. Even as it was fall, the land seemed healthier, more alive. People, animals, and plants all seemed more vibrant than before. We took this as a good sign.
As Brimgrove rose in the distance, I saw an odd energy around it. Set, Vanity and I could not place it nor determine its origin. We decided a closer look would be needed and enjoyed our journey. The horses kept a steady, easy pace as we were passed by travelers and merchants, far more than we had encountered on the ride from Brimgrove.
Days 219-222 (197th-200th):
The trip went smoothly over the reborn Selvis Kingdom. The farms we had blessed were flourishing. News of Selvis Kingdom's resurrection had reached even these far places. The large family played among rows of wheat and stacks of hay. The elderly couple invited us to stay the night, which we did. They shared the bounty their fields had produced. To their credit, they realized we had aided in their good fortune and said this was all they could do to thank us. We accepted and asked for nothing more. It saddened us to find that the man we had bought the extra horses from had died not long after our meeting. However, his son appreciated us remembering his father and all we had done to ease his final days.
Each day we got closer to Brimgrove brought the energy into clearer focus. Within a few miles, we determined it was divine energy engulfing the whole forest. We speculated that Starlight may have returned to her temple now that her bowl had been returned and properly filled.
We reached the edge of the forest by sunset.
Day 223 (201st):
We awoke to find ourselves surrounded by a herd of unicorns. I recognized our escort among the dozen or more large beings around us. A particularly large male stepped towards us and bowed.
"Greeting, Seven Sisters. It is a pleasure to meet all of you in person. Our fellows have told us about their time with you."
We were all amazed. The others had not spoken, in true words, to us during our time with them so we did not know how to react. We all stood in silence. Set broke the awkward moment.
"When did you learn to talk? They never said you spoke," he asked innocently.
They laughed, "Our voices were muffled with the drop in magic from Starlight's absence. With her return, the magic has increased to allow our voices to be heard by non-unicorns. It is nice to able to converse with the other citizens of Brimgrove."
"To what do we owe the pleasure of you company?" Alice asked in mock formality.
The large male stood at attention, "The Seven Sisters are invited to Starlight's temple. She wishes to speak with you and ask your aid."
We looked at each other puzzled. What could a goddess need for us to aid her? The unicorns surrounded us as we mounted our horses. the large male led the way. We traveled until sunset.
Days 224-225 (202nd - 203rd):
The next couple of days were filled with easy conversation. The unicorns told us what had happened in Brimgrove since we left. They told about Baaloc humans and demons attempting to hunt and harvest in Brimgrove. They confirmed that they were the cause of the single wound found on many bodies found at the forest's edge.
We reached the temple before dark, but our escort told us to wait until morning to enter. As we were being invited, we agreed to spend the night outside the vine curtain door. The area was like a garden and it was easy to relax and fall asleep there.
*********************END OF FIRST "BOOK"***************************************
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Day 215 & 216 (193rd & 194th)
Day 215 (193rd):
We awoke as the other two young clerics, a male dwarf and a female elf, entered at sunrise. They brought items from their families. Drognall, the dwarf, had a large metal bowl that fit perfectly into a depression on the altar table. He also had wall sconces to hold either magical lights or candles. Eletan, the female elf, had a bag full of ornamental items: tongs, knives, candle sticks, two of which nested beautifully onto the altar table, plus some items for the girls' hair and boys' hair or beards. They both reported counting on their families for future items. Nina and Lorevatala were sad that they had no families to add items to the temple. Gretta told them that they were not chosen because of what their families could provide but for themselves just as she had nothing when we found her.
She told them, "You are the true treasures of this temple, not what your family can or can't provide. Fate chose you, not your family."
Even the boys had tears in their eyes. For the next few hours, emotions gushed, fears were voiced, and all their hearts were laid bare to us and each other. There was a clean feeling between us and it made the next big task easier.
Inside the separate room, the granite man had carved a pedestal in the center of the room. The six clerics and I encircled this bare stone.
"This is what anyone, without your presence, will encounter upon entering this room. Each of you will be able to activate the magic that will produce the Wheel of Fate. Now, we must make the Wheel. Fate gave you the instructions as you slept last night, even to those of you outside the temple. Are you ready?"
They indicated their readiness. I instructed my sister to just channel energy to support our young clerics. They took positions around us as we placed our hands upon the pedestal. As Fate had instructed, we pictured the Wheel in our minds and willed it to become solid. In the center of the pedestal, a spindle of light appeared. We poured our energy into that small spark. It began widening, growing into a larger and larger circle. Within moments, it covered the top of the pedestal. We all stepped back and made it grow beyond the edge of the pedestal. When it fit the size we had envisioned, we began the shaping of the Wheel and adding the details: handles to spin it, a pointer to see what the outcome is, and divisions for the multiple outcomes available. It grew to twice the size of a wagon wheel. We continued after it had reached its maximum size by thickening it and finishing details and finalizing the spells needed for its operation. We were done a little over two hours after we had started.
We paused to take a break. My sisters and Set examined the Wheel. Set told us he liked the smell of it. That made us all laugh. That was when the young clerics realized they could hear him in their minds. This was a novel thing to all but the elf Eletan, who said her people communicated that way for eons.
As we ate lunch, the clerics exercised their new voices and began discussing the "ritual" that they would go through to activate the Wheel. My sisters seemed puzzled. We explained that all any of them needed to do to activate the Wheel was to place their hand on the pedestal and speak the word that triggered the spell. However, people would be expecting some sort of display to summon it. They understood. Nina had an excellent idea.
"If they come in finely dressed, spouting lengthy prayers, and carrying on so, we could have a longer show to match. If they are simple people with a simple request, then we just say the word. Make the 'ritual' match the person."
Everyone thought that was a wonderful idea and praised her for such an intelligent solution. Wellon set to write down a medium, a long, and a really long "play", as he called it, to perform for the people seeking answers.
"Not everyone coming to you will need the Wheel," I informed them, "as you will be able to see glimpses of their fates as you grow stronger on this path. I was able to see many of those as I culled through the crowd to find you six. Many will be satisfied with such. The bowl Drognall supplied will show these simple glimpses."
They nodded, understanding that I was helping prepare them for their new roles.
We were talking when the doors and shutters arrived. The workers were respectful and efficient as they attached wood and metal to stone. The shutters were simple, without any designs or carvings. The doors bore insets of the faceted mirrors and were engraved with the words for Fate in every known language. We ran our hands over the words after the doors were in place. I could see the care and joy clinging to the wood left over from the carvers. I was glad that they enjoyed the task.
"Good clerics," the foreman addressed us, "we hope this meets your approval. We had a curious event with these doors. For the first time, all of our designers had the exact same design idea. No arguments, no fighting, but a true collaboration. Are you please?"
We assured him that we were completely pleased and impressed with all the languages, even some very obscure ones, that were carved in their own characters and forms. The foreman stated that they seemed to carve themselves as most of the workers only knew one to two languages, and one knew five, but the doors had over one hundred languages neatly carved to fit within the confines of the doors.
Before we could ask if they needed payment, the foreman handed us a sheet of paper and asked for a signature.
"This is a guild form that states we donated the materials and man hours. No payment is required," he explained.
With relief, the six young clerics made their marks across the bottom of the form. The foreman looked at it and nodded. He thanked us all and all the workers left. We spent a few more moments looking over the doors and shutters.
The sun was setting as we headed back inside. A voice stopped us before we shut the doors.
"Excuse me, but I have been sent by the cleric council to aid the youngsters in establishing their ceremonies and rituals. May I enter to speak with you?" a female in her thirties said as she walked up the stairs.
We invited her inside. She explained that she was not taking over or becoming any authority over them.
"The council just wants me to teach you what is expected of clerics and to help you with any questions you may have regarding rules and laws. It is my understanding that none of you have had any formal training in this area."
With that established, we began an easy conversation about clerical laws and she helped them with the "play" before activating the Wheel. We talked as we ate, finalizing seals, titles, and other formalities. She left when we ready to go to sleep, saying she would return in the morning.
The six clerics expressed their delight at having someone helping them with the formal parts that none of them, or us, had any training or skill. We seven felt that we could leave them and they would be in good hands.
Day 216 (194th):
In the morning, the female cleric returned with breakfast. We talked a bit more and told them we were leaving to continue our journey year. While they wished we could stay, they understood our position. We gathered our things, including the mats which the clerics said we should keep. We went back to the palace to tell them we were taking up our journey once again. They all expressed their wishes for us to stay, but understood our needs. They asked us to stay until tomorrow morning to allow them time to prepare some parting gifts and a "proper send-off". One more day in Selvis Prime would not be too much time to spend.
During the rest of the day, we received many wishes for a safe journey, wishes to stay in Selvis Prime, sadness at our leaving, and little trinkets of friendship, thanks, and gratitude.
Lunch was a casual affair, but dinner was formal with the entire council, both royal families, plus many others. Everyone wanted to know where we were headed. We honestly told them we didn't know, but felt we would be led in whatever direction we were to go. We were told of gifts being sent to the new temple to get it going properly. That made us happy.
It was well into the night when we all parted and we returned to our suite. We were excited and sad as we went to sleep.
We awoke as the other two young clerics, a male dwarf and a female elf, entered at sunrise. They brought items from their families. Drognall, the dwarf, had a large metal bowl that fit perfectly into a depression on the altar table. He also had wall sconces to hold either magical lights or candles. Eletan, the female elf, had a bag full of ornamental items: tongs, knives, candle sticks, two of which nested beautifully onto the altar table, plus some items for the girls' hair and boys' hair or beards. They both reported counting on their families for future items. Nina and Lorevatala were sad that they had no families to add items to the temple. Gretta told them that they were not chosen because of what their families could provide but for themselves just as she had nothing when we found her.
She told them, "You are the true treasures of this temple, not what your family can or can't provide. Fate chose you, not your family."
Even the boys had tears in their eyes. For the next few hours, emotions gushed, fears were voiced, and all their hearts were laid bare to us and each other. There was a clean feeling between us and it made the next big task easier.
Inside the separate room, the granite man had carved a pedestal in the center of the room. The six clerics and I encircled this bare stone.
"This is what anyone, without your presence, will encounter upon entering this room. Each of you will be able to activate the magic that will produce the Wheel of Fate. Now, we must make the Wheel. Fate gave you the instructions as you slept last night, even to those of you outside the temple. Are you ready?"
They indicated their readiness. I instructed my sister to just channel energy to support our young clerics. They took positions around us as we placed our hands upon the pedestal. As Fate had instructed, we pictured the Wheel in our minds and willed it to become solid. In the center of the pedestal, a spindle of light appeared. We poured our energy into that small spark. It began widening, growing into a larger and larger circle. Within moments, it covered the top of the pedestal. We all stepped back and made it grow beyond the edge of the pedestal. When it fit the size we had envisioned, we began the shaping of the Wheel and adding the details: handles to spin it, a pointer to see what the outcome is, and divisions for the multiple outcomes available. It grew to twice the size of a wagon wheel. We continued after it had reached its maximum size by thickening it and finishing details and finalizing the spells needed for its operation. We were done a little over two hours after we had started.
We paused to take a break. My sisters and Set examined the Wheel. Set told us he liked the smell of it. That made us all laugh. That was when the young clerics realized they could hear him in their minds. This was a novel thing to all but the elf Eletan, who said her people communicated that way for eons.
As we ate lunch, the clerics exercised their new voices and began discussing the "ritual" that they would go through to activate the Wheel. My sisters seemed puzzled. We explained that all any of them needed to do to activate the Wheel was to place their hand on the pedestal and speak the word that triggered the spell. However, people would be expecting some sort of display to summon it. They understood. Nina had an excellent idea.
"If they come in finely dressed, spouting lengthy prayers, and carrying on so, we could have a longer show to match. If they are simple people with a simple request, then we just say the word. Make the 'ritual' match the person."
Everyone thought that was a wonderful idea and praised her for such an intelligent solution. Wellon set to write down a medium, a long, and a really long "play", as he called it, to perform for the people seeking answers.
"Not everyone coming to you will need the Wheel," I informed them, "as you will be able to see glimpses of their fates as you grow stronger on this path. I was able to see many of those as I culled through the crowd to find you six. Many will be satisfied with such. The bowl Drognall supplied will show these simple glimpses."
They nodded, understanding that I was helping prepare them for their new roles.
We were talking when the doors and shutters arrived. The workers were respectful and efficient as they attached wood and metal to stone. The shutters were simple, without any designs or carvings. The doors bore insets of the faceted mirrors and were engraved with the words for Fate in every known language. We ran our hands over the words after the doors were in place. I could see the care and joy clinging to the wood left over from the carvers. I was glad that they enjoyed the task.
"Good clerics," the foreman addressed us, "we hope this meets your approval. We had a curious event with these doors. For the first time, all of our designers had the exact same design idea. No arguments, no fighting, but a true collaboration. Are you please?"
We assured him that we were completely pleased and impressed with all the languages, even some very obscure ones, that were carved in their own characters and forms. The foreman stated that they seemed to carve themselves as most of the workers only knew one to two languages, and one knew five, but the doors had over one hundred languages neatly carved to fit within the confines of the doors.
Before we could ask if they needed payment, the foreman handed us a sheet of paper and asked for a signature.
"This is a guild form that states we donated the materials and man hours. No payment is required," he explained.
With relief, the six young clerics made their marks across the bottom of the form. The foreman looked at it and nodded. He thanked us all and all the workers left. We spent a few more moments looking over the doors and shutters.
The sun was setting as we headed back inside. A voice stopped us before we shut the doors.
"Excuse me, but I have been sent by the cleric council to aid the youngsters in establishing their ceremonies and rituals. May I enter to speak with you?" a female in her thirties said as she walked up the stairs.
We invited her inside. She explained that she was not taking over or becoming any authority over them.
"The council just wants me to teach you what is expected of clerics and to help you with any questions you may have regarding rules and laws. It is my understanding that none of you have had any formal training in this area."
With that established, we began an easy conversation about clerical laws and she helped them with the "play" before activating the Wheel. We talked as we ate, finalizing seals, titles, and other formalities. She left when we ready to go to sleep, saying she would return in the morning.
The six clerics expressed their delight at having someone helping them with the formal parts that none of them, or us, had any training or skill. We seven felt that we could leave them and they would be in good hands.
Day 216 (194th):
In the morning, the female cleric returned with breakfast. We talked a bit more and told them we were leaving to continue our journey year. While they wished we could stay, they understood our position. We gathered our things, including the mats which the clerics said we should keep. We went back to the palace to tell them we were taking up our journey once again. They all expressed their wishes for us to stay, but understood our needs. They asked us to stay until tomorrow morning to allow them time to prepare some parting gifts and a "proper send-off". One more day in Selvis Prime would not be too much time to spend.
During the rest of the day, we received many wishes for a safe journey, wishes to stay in Selvis Prime, sadness at our leaving, and little trinkets of friendship, thanks, and gratitude.
Lunch was a casual affair, but dinner was formal with the entire council, both royal families, plus many others. Everyone wanted to know where we were headed. We honestly told them we didn't know, but felt we would be led in whatever direction we were to go. We were told of gifts being sent to the new temple to get it going properly. That made us happy.
It was well into the night when we all parted and we returned to our suite. We were excited and sad as we went to sleep.
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Day 214 (192nd)
Day 214 (192nd):
I awoke while it was still dark. I looked outside and saw people already assembling. Set joined me in my peek.
"All of them want to live here?" he asked.
"It's more than that. They want to do what I do, see the future, find what's hidden in people's hearts, and uncover secrets."
"Oh, do they get dragons, too?"
I laughed, "No, they are not riders. That is not a part of the duties of Fate's clerics."
"That makes you even more special. You do more than clerics, more than riders, even more than Faeries. No wonder I hatched for you."
"I am blessed to be with you. I am blessed to be with Vanity. I am very blessed to be with my sisters during a troubled time. It will be sad to part, but I will have the joy of seeing them find the lives they were meant to have and may not have had if the swords had not called."
"We are blessed, too," came a chorus behind me.
Callie walked up and peeked out, followed by the rest.
"Do you see anyone?" she asked, looking at those gathering.
"Two, maybe three. I will know when I face them."
Puzzled looks covered my sisters' faces as they looked outside, trying to see who I was talking about. I chuckled.
"Place you hands on me. See as I see."
Six hands laid upon me. I shared my sight with them. Set puffed smoke as he shared constantly and knew what they would see. Gasps, exclamations, and other noises told me they were fully sharing.
"Do you see like this all the time?" Anna whispered.
"Every waking moment. Let me show you something."
I turned and faced them so they could see themselves. They touched their faces with their other hand to make sure it was truly themselves they were seeing. Before they could say anything, I looked at Set. They all gasped.
"Is that...dragon magic?" Alice asked.
"Yes, all dragons radiate like this, just more as they age or gain power. Brimagor shines like the sun," Set replied with happy thuds of his tail echoing in the empty temple.
"What about you, Kayla? Can you see yourself, your colors?" Lisa asked a bit breathless.
"I can see it around my hands, body, and legs, but no, I can't fully see myself. Mirrors don't reflect auras."
With a bit of effort, I reversed the viewing and saw myself through their eyes with my sight. The Faerie rose mingled with cleric yellow. God sparks flitted through it. There was another color, but I could not see it clearly as the rest hid it. No arrogant shell, a thin strip of pride white, and an orange layer just inside the white. I was happy with my aura.
Breaking contact, we returned our attention outside. The sky was lightening and we could see more people arriving. A couple more bright glows were among them. Also, Kendar, Lehand, and Farlane appeared with a small squad of guards. We all smiled.
"Come to keep the peace?" we asked mentally.
We saw him salute towards the temple, even though he could not see us in the darkened temple. That made us smile again. The sky grew lighter.
"It is nearly time, sisters. Shall we get dressed?" I asked casually.
The rest agreed excitedly.
"What should we wear? How fancy should we be? So many choices," the other bantered.
I smiled, "Let us let Fate decide," I shyly suggested.
Everyone laughed, "We shall let Fate decide."
We took each others' hands and formed a circle.
"Fate, patron of this temple, provide us with the style of dress you wish us to wear to represent you on this day," we spoke inside the hollow building.
I could tell the cool breeze reached my sisters as well as myself. With a nod, we swung our hands inside our circle, out, back in, and turned as our hands came back to our sides. Our peasant frocks and plain clothes changed to simple, yet elegant, gowns, similar to what I wore in the Faerie Realm. We all examined them and commented on the colors. Set barked. We saw even he was "dressed" with a dragon-styled tabard bearing the faceted mirror symbol of Fate. He puffed happy smoke rings.
"I am handsome! Can I go trumpet now?" he asked, looking outside.
"Yes, Sarroset, it is time," I informed him.
Set strode out the doorway while my sisters asked what he was talking about.
"Remember hearing strange sounds at the palace? That was him, practicing his emperor trumpet. Falcon says all dragons have their own 'voice', which is a verbal call to others, usually dragons. Just watch and listen."
Outside the door, Set stood on his back legs, balancing on his tail, took a deep breath, and produced a haunting trumpet sound that, even for his small size, sounded loud and long enough to quiet the assembled citizens and bring all attention to the door of the temple. We walked out as the sound was dying away. I patted Set and told him what a good job he did. Then, I turned to the people.
"Good people, it is a good sight to see you all. Unfortunately, this temple can only house up to ten clerics. I ask only those who truly feel that they are meant to be Fate's clerics to line up at these steps. The rest, please, do not stop or hamper them."
People began walking towards the temple. I saw the bright auras headed towards us. I nodded to my sisters' mental question about them.
Once the line was twenty deep, I asked the first one to approach me. She was so afraid that she stumbled.
"Why are you so afraid?" I asked her.
"I am the daughter, granddaughter, and great-granddaughter of clerics. If I am not accepted by Fate, my family will cast me out," she said as the tears fell.
I cradled her face in my hands, her tears sliding onto my skin. I gently informed her that Fate was not her patron, but Nature had a place for her and she should present herself to that temple. She squealed in delight and ran down the stairs and through the crowd towards the city. Several people, her family most likely, followed her.
I went through several people before the first bright aura approached. He was a small boy, but strongly built. He looked me straight in the eye. No arrogance surrounded him, a thin line of white pride, which was nearly eclipsed by the cleric yellow and god sparks. The instant our skin touched, his eyes went snow white. He gasped as Fate made contact. I asked him to stand beside my sisters. A cheer erupted from the crowd. I turned back to the line.
After a few more people, another bright aura approached. A female centaur stared at my feet as she stood before me. I raised her chin and looked into white eyes. I smiled.
"Have no fear, sister, Fate has a place for you."
Sarah walked her over next to the boy and consoled her about her fears. The crowd cheered again.
By mid-day, a total of five had been found. I looked at the crowd. There was a bright aura not in line. Pushing aside the emotions of the rest of the crowd, I felt anger and hate around this bright aura. Set, feeling what I felt and seeing what I saw, took to the air towards them.
"Kendar, follow Set, a cleric is being stopped," I urgently told him mentally.
Kendar and his squad parted the crowd. I made my way towards the bright aura as well. I arrived to see Set guarding a girl, shooting flame at any who dared approach. The ones who had stopped her were shouting at Kendar and the guards to destroy Set, calling him "dangerous" and a "foul beast".
"They will do no such thing," I told them firmly, "He is guarding a cleric of Fate."
Their anger grew.
"She is no cleric. She is insane. Tells outlandish tales them makes them come true so others believe they are visions. You would think sound beatings would have cured her of such foolishness," one man said as he moved to strike her.
Set's growl covered the sound of Vanity sliding out of her sheath. I brought the blade to his chest.
"Step back or it will be you who learns a lesson," I said as I stepped between him and the girl.
His anger gurgled in his throat. I turned to talk to the girl. Set's growl told me the man was trying something. His growl was followed by six swords being drawn.
"Lay a hand on Kayla and you will lose that hand," Lisa's commanding voice left no room for negotiation.
Set stepped aside so I could face the girl. She was shaking in fear. Even so, her aura was so bright I could barely see her face.
"What is your name?" I asked gently.
"N...Nina," she stammered, looking at her feet.
"Nina, please look at me," I urged her.
She raised her head. When our eyes met, she gasped, "You! The purple eyes! I dreamt of a lady with purple eyes. I was in prison and she had the key and released me," her eyes went to Vanity, who was still in my hand, "The key! That was the key! That opened the cage."
"Shut up, stupid girl!" another man shouted, "No one cares about your dumb dreams. Let's sell her for a whore. That's all she's good for."
"No, she is a cleric of Fate," I said as I touched her cheek and her eyes went brilliantly white.
Everyone around us gasped. Nina smiled a purely happy smile.
"I am free. They can't hurt me anymore."
"You sully Fate's temple with this mongrel? She's not even a half-breed. No telling how many races are in her blood," one of the men growled.
Alice spoke up, "Nina is one-quarter elf, one-quarter human, one-quarter dwarf, and one-quarter gnome."
"See!" he shouted, "A mutt! She is not worthy to be Fate's cleric."
"Bloodline is not important," I firmly told him, "All that matters is an open mind and an honest heart. Nina, please follow me."
Nina and I parted the crowd, followed by Set, my sisters, and the guards. We went up the stairs.
"Fate's clerics are not chosen by bloodlines or any other such mortal biases. Open minds and honest hearts are the only requirements," I told the crowd.
Nina took her place beside the other five. I looked out and saw no more bright glows. It was late afternoon.
"There are no more clerics of Fate in this crowd. The finding is over," I stated.
Those at the steps sighed and turned to leave. Kendar and the guards took up positions to keep anyone from coming up the steps. We seven and the six new clerics entered the temple.
"If there is anything you wish to get from you homes, please do so tonight. Tomorrow, we will be making the Wheel of Fate according to Fate's instructions. A friend is providing more sleeping mats for those who sleep here until real beds can be made. Other than the doors and window shutters, you will decide what goes into this place, as Fate guides you. You will write Fate's rituals and rules. You will be the elders and founders future clerics will quote. Tonight, we rest."
Four of them said they had personal items and went to get them. Nina and Lorevatala, the female centaur, said they had all that they owned with them. We showed them where we had slept and the mats. Six new mats were piled up, a new gift from Mattis, plus a small mount of pillows. We showed them the facilities, bathing area, and "kitchen" area. With the pure fountain just a hundred paces from the front door, water was no problem.
Kendar set two new guards for the night. He also reported that the doors and window shutters were finished and should arrive sometime tomorrow to be installed.
Two returned with an armload of clothes, some candles, and a variety of bowls, pots, and other containers. Dean, the small strongly built boy, said his family were potters and volunteered any bowls, pots, or anything similar to the temple. Wellon, the oldest of the six at seventeen years old, brought an armful of baskets, telling us his family of basket makers also volunteered baskets for the temple.
We laid out the mats while sharing food Kendar had given us. We talked about our families, home life, and when they knew there was something special about them.
Not long after sunset, our young clerics were getting sleepy, so we settled down to sleep. I knew Fate would be instructing us as we slept on the construction of the Wheel.
I awoke while it was still dark. I looked outside and saw people already assembling. Set joined me in my peek.
"All of them want to live here?" he asked.
"It's more than that. They want to do what I do, see the future, find what's hidden in people's hearts, and uncover secrets."
"Oh, do they get dragons, too?"
I laughed, "No, they are not riders. That is not a part of the duties of Fate's clerics."
"That makes you even more special. You do more than clerics, more than riders, even more than Faeries. No wonder I hatched for you."
"I am blessed to be with you. I am blessed to be with Vanity. I am very blessed to be with my sisters during a troubled time. It will be sad to part, but I will have the joy of seeing them find the lives they were meant to have and may not have had if the swords had not called."
"We are blessed, too," came a chorus behind me.
Callie walked up and peeked out, followed by the rest.
"Do you see anyone?" she asked, looking at those gathering.
"Two, maybe three. I will know when I face them."
Puzzled looks covered my sisters' faces as they looked outside, trying to see who I was talking about. I chuckled.
"Place you hands on me. See as I see."
Six hands laid upon me. I shared my sight with them. Set puffed smoke as he shared constantly and knew what they would see. Gasps, exclamations, and other noises told me they were fully sharing.
"Do you see like this all the time?" Anna whispered.
"Every waking moment. Let me show you something."
I turned and faced them so they could see themselves. They touched their faces with their other hand to make sure it was truly themselves they were seeing. Before they could say anything, I looked at Set. They all gasped.
"Is that...dragon magic?" Alice asked.
"Yes, all dragons radiate like this, just more as they age or gain power. Brimagor shines like the sun," Set replied with happy thuds of his tail echoing in the empty temple.
"What about you, Kayla? Can you see yourself, your colors?" Lisa asked a bit breathless.
"I can see it around my hands, body, and legs, but no, I can't fully see myself. Mirrors don't reflect auras."
With a bit of effort, I reversed the viewing and saw myself through their eyes with my sight. The Faerie rose mingled with cleric yellow. God sparks flitted through it. There was another color, but I could not see it clearly as the rest hid it. No arrogant shell, a thin strip of pride white, and an orange layer just inside the white. I was happy with my aura.
Breaking contact, we returned our attention outside. The sky was lightening and we could see more people arriving. A couple more bright glows were among them. Also, Kendar, Lehand, and Farlane appeared with a small squad of guards. We all smiled.
"Come to keep the peace?" we asked mentally.
We saw him salute towards the temple, even though he could not see us in the darkened temple. That made us smile again. The sky grew lighter.
"It is nearly time, sisters. Shall we get dressed?" I asked casually.
The rest agreed excitedly.
"What should we wear? How fancy should we be? So many choices," the other bantered.
I smiled, "Let us let Fate decide," I shyly suggested.
Everyone laughed, "We shall let Fate decide."
We took each others' hands and formed a circle.
"Fate, patron of this temple, provide us with the style of dress you wish us to wear to represent you on this day," we spoke inside the hollow building.
I could tell the cool breeze reached my sisters as well as myself. With a nod, we swung our hands inside our circle, out, back in, and turned as our hands came back to our sides. Our peasant frocks and plain clothes changed to simple, yet elegant, gowns, similar to what I wore in the Faerie Realm. We all examined them and commented on the colors. Set barked. We saw even he was "dressed" with a dragon-styled tabard bearing the faceted mirror symbol of Fate. He puffed happy smoke rings.
"I am handsome! Can I go trumpet now?" he asked, looking outside.
"Yes, Sarroset, it is time," I informed him.
Set strode out the doorway while my sisters asked what he was talking about.
"Remember hearing strange sounds at the palace? That was him, practicing his emperor trumpet. Falcon says all dragons have their own 'voice', which is a verbal call to others, usually dragons. Just watch and listen."
Outside the door, Set stood on his back legs, balancing on his tail, took a deep breath, and produced a haunting trumpet sound that, even for his small size, sounded loud and long enough to quiet the assembled citizens and bring all attention to the door of the temple. We walked out as the sound was dying away. I patted Set and told him what a good job he did. Then, I turned to the people.
"Good people, it is a good sight to see you all. Unfortunately, this temple can only house up to ten clerics. I ask only those who truly feel that they are meant to be Fate's clerics to line up at these steps. The rest, please, do not stop or hamper them."
People began walking towards the temple. I saw the bright auras headed towards us. I nodded to my sisters' mental question about them.
Once the line was twenty deep, I asked the first one to approach me. She was so afraid that she stumbled.
"Why are you so afraid?" I asked her.
"I am the daughter, granddaughter, and great-granddaughter of clerics. If I am not accepted by Fate, my family will cast me out," she said as the tears fell.
I cradled her face in my hands, her tears sliding onto my skin. I gently informed her that Fate was not her patron, but Nature had a place for her and she should present herself to that temple. She squealed in delight and ran down the stairs and through the crowd towards the city. Several people, her family most likely, followed her.
I went through several people before the first bright aura approached. He was a small boy, but strongly built. He looked me straight in the eye. No arrogance surrounded him, a thin line of white pride, which was nearly eclipsed by the cleric yellow and god sparks. The instant our skin touched, his eyes went snow white. He gasped as Fate made contact. I asked him to stand beside my sisters. A cheer erupted from the crowd. I turned back to the line.
After a few more people, another bright aura approached. A female centaur stared at my feet as she stood before me. I raised her chin and looked into white eyes. I smiled.
"Have no fear, sister, Fate has a place for you."
Sarah walked her over next to the boy and consoled her about her fears. The crowd cheered again.
By mid-day, a total of five had been found. I looked at the crowd. There was a bright aura not in line. Pushing aside the emotions of the rest of the crowd, I felt anger and hate around this bright aura. Set, feeling what I felt and seeing what I saw, took to the air towards them.
"Kendar, follow Set, a cleric is being stopped," I urgently told him mentally.
Kendar and his squad parted the crowd. I made my way towards the bright aura as well. I arrived to see Set guarding a girl, shooting flame at any who dared approach. The ones who had stopped her were shouting at Kendar and the guards to destroy Set, calling him "dangerous" and a "foul beast".
"They will do no such thing," I told them firmly, "He is guarding a cleric of Fate."
Their anger grew.
"She is no cleric. She is insane. Tells outlandish tales them makes them come true so others believe they are visions. You would think sound beatings would have cured her of such foolishness," one man said as he moved to strike her.
Set's growl covered the sound of Vanity sliding out of her sheath. I brought the blade to his chest.
"Step back or it will be you who learns a lesson," I said as I stepped between him and the girl.
His anger gurgled in his throat. I turned to talk to the girl. Set's growl told me the man was trying something. His growl was followed by six swords being drawn.
"Lay a hand on Kayla and you will lose that hand," Lisa's commanding voice left no room for negotiation.
Set stepped aside so I could face the girl. She was shaking in fear. Even so, her aura was so bright I could barely see her face.
"What is your name?" I asked gently.
"N...Nina," she stammered, looking at her feet.
"Nina, please look at me," I urged her.
She raised her head. When our eyes met, she gasped, "You! The purple eyes! I dreamt of a lady with purple eyes. I was in prison and she had the key and released me," her eyes went to Vanity, who was still in my hand, "The key! That was the key! That opened the cage."
"Shut up, stupid girl!" another man shouted, "No one cares about your dumb dreams. Let's sell her for a whore. That's all she's good for."
"No, she is a cleric of Fate," I said as I touched her cheek and her eyes went brilliantly white.
Everyone around us gasped. Nina smiled a purely happy smile.
"I am free. They can't hurt me anymore."
"You sully Fate's temple with this mongrel? She's not even a half-breed. No telling how many races are in her blood," one of the men growled.
Alice spoke up, "Nina is one-quarter elf, one-quarter human, one-quarter dwarf, and one-quarter gnome."
"See!" he shouted, "A mutt! She is not worthy to be Fate's cleric."
"Bloodline is not important," I firmly told him, "All that matters is an open mind and an honest heart. Nina, please follow me."
Nina and I parted the crowd, followed by Set, my sisters, and the guards. We went up the stairs.
"Fate's clerics are not chosen by bloodlines or any other such mortal biases. Open minds and honest hearts are the only requirements," I told the crowd.
Nina took her place beside the other five. I looked out and saw no more bright glows. It was late afternoon.
"There are no more clerics of Fate in this crowd. The finding is over," I stated.
Those at the steps sighed and turned to leave. Kendar and the guards took up positions to keep anyone from coming up the steps. We seven and the six new clerics entered the temple.
"If there is anything you wish to get from you homes, please do so tonight. Tomorrow, we will be making the Wheel of Fate according to Fate's instructions. A friend is providing more sleeping mats for those who sleep here until real beds can be made. Other than the doors and window shutters, you will decide what goes into this place, as Fate guides you. You will write Fate's rituals and rules. You will be the elders and founders future clerics will quote. Tonight, we rest."
Four of them said they had personal items and went to get them. Nina and Lorevatala, the female centaur, said they had all that they owned with them. We showed them where we had slept and the mats. Six new mats were piled up, a new gift from Mattis, plus a small mount of pillows. We showed them the facilities, bathing area, and "kitchen" area. With the pure fountain just a hundred paces from the front door, water was no problem.
Kendar set two new guards for the night. He also reported that the doors and window shutters were finished and should arrive sometime tomorrow to be installed.
Two returned with an armload of clothes, some candles, and a variety of bowls, pots, and other containers. Dean, the small strongly built boy, said his family were potters and volunteered any bowls, pots, or anything similar to the temple. Wellon, the oldest of the six at seventeen years old, brought an armful of baskets, telling us his family of basket makers also volunteered baskets for the temple.
We laid out the mats while sharing food Kendar had given us. We talked about our families, home life, and when they knew there was something special about them.
Not long after sunset, our young clerics were getting sleepy, so we settled down to sleep. I knew Fate would be instructing us as we slept on the construction of the Wheel.
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
Day 213 (191st)
Day 213 (191st):
I awoke before dawn. I could sense every one's concern about me and poured loving energy to ease their sleeping minds. The small influences of many gods lit up the streets of Selvis Prime almost as much as the magical lights. I used this time to steel myself against those who will doubt me and attack me for what I must tell them. I felt the reassurance from the dragons, their riders, and others awake at this early hour. Many pledged to stand with me against any protests or attackers. I thanked them for their support. My sisters awoke one at a time. They each told me how scared they were when I collapsed and how they were surprised that it was really Fate who had not only sent me the visions but had actually spoken through me. I told them Fate's instructions. They reconfirmed their positions as my sisters and friends to be with me no matter what we faced. As the rest of the palace awoke, I could feel the change in attitude towards us and me, specifically. From awe to fear to suspicion and, among a few, hatred. I chose to ignore those who had only met us once or twice since they did not know us well or even at all. Our friends, I was pleased to find, had not changed their attitudes towards any of us.
Kendar came to our room to check on me. He was genuinely pleased to see me up and well. He said the council wanted to have breakfast with us to discuss Fate's temple. We finished getting ready and went down with him to the formal dining room.
Three members of each council were present as were our friends and both royal families. Everyone waited until we had all taken our seats before anyone spoke.
"We are pleased to see you up and about, Kayla," Mara said with a smile, "Your collapse had us all worried."
"I am sorry for that. I tried to stay conscious, but it was too much for me to attempt. Fate also apologizes for any worry this caused."
"Kayla," one of the clerics began, "there are many questions we have concerning Fate and other things."
"I will answer as best I can," I replied and reached down to pat Set who was in his usual post at my feet.
Parchment was unfolded and smoothed onto the table and they sorted through them. They agreed upon the order of the questions and started.
"What is the gender of Fate? We need to know so we can erect the proper statue."
"Unfortunately, Fate is whatever gender the person best receives. To me, Fate is female. To others, Fate can be male, an animal, or some animated element. It is not wise to set up a statue that only represents one aspect of Fate's appearance. To do so may cause someone to miss out on key information if they expect only a male or female of human-like features to tell them," I responded as patiently as I could.
The clerics huddled to discuss this information. As they were gathered, the guild councilors addressed me.
"Other than the obvious business of gambling, is there any business on which Fate wishes to exercise special influence?"
I didn't know how to answer. This was not something Fate had imparted to me. I was about to tell them I had no idea when a familiar cool breeze blew through me, carrying this information.
"Fate has no interest in business. Fate is interested in people, sentient life, and civilizations. Business is a small part of civilization and that is all Fate is concerned about. No one guild will be the sole providence of Fate."
Heads bobbed as understanding was absorbed. They folded their parchments and dug into their breakfast. The clerics had rearranged their papers and put away questions that either had been answered or would not need to be asked.
"What symbol will represent Fate in the place of a statue or on documents?" the same cleric asked.
"Fate's symbol for the temple or documents is a faceted smoky mirror. This represents that the future is not always crystal clear nor straight forward or that one view is not the same as another, plus just a small step can appear to change you fate."
More head bobbing and more paper shuffling. I ate between questions. My sisters looked between them and me, silently daring any to attack me or make some outlandish statement against me. Even Set, under the table, growled under his breath as a warning.
"Is there any special day Fate wishes to be a specific holy day or any specific period of time dedicated to just Fate and no other?"
"No, Fate is present in every life at all times. Every move, no matter how small, can change our fate or bring our particular fate to fruition. Just include Fate in your 'All Gods' celebration. That will do."
They shuffled their papers more. One of the judges used their silence to ask a question.
"In difficult cases, where the verdict is hard to decide, would Fate allow us to consult a cleric to find a verdict?"
The wind blew again. I silently thanked Fate for her continuous council.
"Once the temple is finished, there will be a special room for everyone to 'let Fate decide' on a particular question, even the verdict of a trial. You will not need a cleric for this, past opening the door and activating the magic to pose the question."
Smiles erupted upon the faces of many around the table. The happy colors swirled around them. Apparently, the clerics were all out of questions as they stowed away their papers and dove into their food.
The rest of the meal passed with light topics and discussions of where to build this new temple.
After breakfast, we proceeded out of the palace and into the city to choose the site for the building. Without anyone asking, I told them where we were to go.
"Callie has already prepared the place. By the northeast wall, near a fountain Lisa has already purified, and an area of ground Sarah has healed. I will show you."
We made our way to the spot, not far from Rono's inn. Before the renovations, the odd angles of the walls and the leaning of the buildings made this area unusable to anything bigger than a shed. Now, with a straight wall and buildings, a nearly two city block area was opened up. Both the judicial council and guild council pulled out city maps and found that the plot of land was still royal property, not purchased by any citizen in Selvis Prime. The guild members began discussing contractors, engineers, labor, and all matter of details. The cool breeze from Fate brought information that made me smile. I funneled the information to my sisters, who chuckled. We received questioning looks from the rest. Kendar gave us a fatherly look.
"Girls, what are you not sharing with us?" he asked in a mock stern tone.
"No one here will build this temple. It has already been built. It is being brought as we speak," I told them all.
Wide eyes and puzzled looks were their only reply, even Kendar was at a loss. Finally, questions erupted all at once, everyone speaking over each other, even Mara and Darla were talking.
The first vibration silenced a few. The second silenced half. The third left only the loudest talkers. The fourth quieted even them. From beyond the front gates, more vibrations sounded. Between the heavy thuds, a continuous grinding sound reverberated against the wall and gates. Slowly, a member of the Stone Race came into view pulling a cart about the size of a house. All activity in the city seemed to stop. Thousands of eyes watched his approach. He did not enter the gates, but circled to the area where we stood.
"Pardon me, good people, but I have..." his surprisingly soft voice trailed off.
"Good ally, honored member of the Stone Race, we know you have brought us a building. Please, tell us about it," I gently reassured him to ease his confusion.
He sighed, "Shortly after our people were freed from the demon's influence, a stranger, made of pure clear crystal, approached me and gave me detailed instructions to build Selvis Prime a building. I fought against this, but found myself returning to this task again and again. I decided not to fight any more and took it up whole-heartily. I finished a few days ago, loaded up this cart, and headed to the surface. I got a lot of strange looks from those leaving the city. So, does this make sense to you?"
The seven of us smiled while the rest of our party and the city that had followed him to this spot just stared in silence.
"It makes perfect sense. The crystal stranger was Fate and that building is Fate's temple," I told him as one who understood.
The granite man hit his forehead with a building rattling smack. I think boulders colliding makes the same noise.
"Fate! Of course, that explains so much! My family said crystal never produced any of our race, especially clear quartz crystal. My friends feared my mind had been addled by the demon. It will please them all to know I am not insane," he said, sinking to lean on the wall to talk with us easier.
"I completely understand. I have received similar worry from my friends and family for my odd behavior due to outside influences. Even those around me still worry about me," I reassured him, "Can we see the building?"
Another building shaking forehead smack, "I nearly forgot! Of course. Is this where it goes?"
We told him it was and he set to work. Pulling the cart up to the wall, he began unloading large slabs of stone. First, he pulled off a large piece big enough for six cottages and lifted it over the wall. He climbed over the wall and found a large enough flat spot to lay this as the foundation. He positioned it so a set of pre-made steps faced the city. This piece alone was five feet thick. He walked over it to firmly sink it almost a foot into the ground and level it out. With that accomplished, he reached over the wall and heaved more slabs over. Positioning them in grooves in the floor, he set up four outside walls, each with pre-cut window and door holes. After that, he brought over the interior walls and set them into their places. He also included some interior objects. Finally, two large pieces were notched together and placed as the roof, finishing the whole construction in under thirty minutes. He stood and looked at it, at a bit of a loss.
"That was all I was instructed to do. I was not told how to fill in the gaps or make it weather worthy," he said a bit embarrassed.
"I believe that is our job, right, Callie?" I said as I turned to my sister.
She did not look surprised but understood her role. Drawing Wrath, she stood before us and held him out with the flat of the blade facing the structure. The six of us drew our swords and poured energy into her. The edges of the walls began to flow like honey, meeting each other and forming a smooth, seamless corner. Likewise, the walls and roof flowed together to firmly connect in one continuous smooth surface. When it was done, not even a needle could pierce the joints of walls and roof.
"I had heard you could do wondrous things with stone, but I would not have believed such tales if I had not witnessed this," the granite man said quietly.
All who had watched slowly approached to marvel at the new temple, caressing the now solid corners and the lowest places where roof and wall were now one and the flawless joint of wall to foundation.
We thanked the granite man and asked if he needed supplies to return home. He said he had all he needed and turned his large cart back in the directions from which he had traveled. We gave him our regards for his people and watched him rumble away.
We took our friends and associated inside the new temple. The interior was dark, being only sunlight from the windows and doors to give us light. Still, we saw one large room with a large altar a dozen paces from the door. While there was nothing on it, there were places carved for placing various objects. We borrowed a couple of magic lights from outside, which lit instantly inside the dark temple.
We were looking over the living area when a commotion outside brought our attention back to the front doorway. We saw a group of citizens preventing a group of clerics from reaching the building. Everyone was shouting.
"What is going on?" Kendar asked a nearby citizen.
"The clerics came charging over to confront the stone man. Seeing him leave, they turned their attention to this temple. They said they were going to tear it down. We are trying to keep them from doing any damage," he told us.
We were shocked. After everything, there were still people who had such hate for anything different. The three cleric councilors stepped forward to confront the clerics. Seeing their superiors, the group backed off.
"How dare you? A temple all of you clamored for has been build free of charge by an ally and your first thought is to attack the builder and tear down the temple you demanded? Explain yourselves."
"Elder, we are still unsure as to the loyalty of the Stone Race. They reside underground with the demons and other unholy creatures. We cannot be sure this building, the very stone, is not somehow tainted, or even cursed."
"If you fools had watched, the Seven Sisters have carved the stone to a suitable temple. There is nothing tainted about it nor the race that provided it."
Another group of clerics came shouting up to us. Seeing the new building, they produced large bottles of spring water.
"We are here to confront the soulless creature and eliminate any evil it has left. This building will not stand!" a puff jawed cleric bellowed to the crowd.
We did not have to say a word. The citizens and councilors, including the first set of clerics, berated this group for their stupidity and foolishness.
As we stood there, I felt a light-headiness come upon me.
Someone shouted,"Her eyes are white! Fate is among us!"
"Yes, I am among you. I am here to say that the temple pleases me and the other powers. Also, I call to all citizens to return on the morrow to populate this temple with clerics. Those who are meant to be my clerics will have the same reaction, the whitening of the eyes, as Kayla now has, to my presence. Do not let other clerics, wizards, or any 'learned' people dissuade you from presenting yourself if you feel called. Also, no race is barred from my service. I am bound to no single race and no race will claim my favoritism. Sunrise, tomorrow, will begin the search."
I stumbled as Fate left me. Everyone was still silent and looking at me. I wanted to retreat to the darkness of the temple to avoid all of those stares.
Suddenly, it dawned on everyone that they had less than a day to spread this news and prepare. The area became empty very quickly, leaving only the seven of us and our companions. We stayed at the temple until mid-day. The councilors returned to their chambers and the rest of us went back to the palace to eat. I could feel the stares that followed us. My sisters, Set, and Vanity all reassured me of their love and support.
A few people handed us small gifts and notes of thanks plus requests for small problems. Some of the requests we handed to Mara and Gavin as it was within their area of influence. The rest were simple enough and, after lunch, we took care of them. Similar to Thantos, they were requests for healing, finding lost information, and uncovering the truth.
We did this until shortly before sunset. I had to tell my sisters what I needed to do tonight.
"To prepare for finding Fate's clerics, I am to stay in the temple all night. No one has to come with me..."
"...but we are going to anyway," Callie finished my statement, "Besides, living in the palace is getting a bit old. We'll probably be heading out in a few days anyway."
"I agree," Lisa chimed in, "we still have the rest of the year and many relatives to visit and new lives to start."
"Father had expressed, at the wedding, his desire for my return," Alice meekly added, "I have duties I must attend."
"So, camp out in an empty temple," Gretta falsely smiled, "Sounds like fun."
We all laughed at her obvious lie and went to get ready for the night. We ate in our suite as we gathered pillows, blankets, and other things to make the stone floor less hard and cold.
Our friends were not happy but allowed us since they knew it was necessary. Mattis provided magical mats he said would feel like feather beds when we laid upon them. We had an escort to the temple and two guards "to keep an eye out" at the door.
Inside the temple, we placed our mats in the living area and discussed decorating ideas for the bare walls. When we grew tired, we made ourselves comfortable and went to sleep. The mats did feel nice and we thanked Mattis, again, for his thoughtfulness.
As I slept, Fate walked me through the ritual that would identify her clerics. She warned me that some would not be too happy when the clerics were revealed. I told her I understood and would face that problem when it arose. She commented again on how I accepted all of this so easily. Without thinking, I replied, "I believe in Fate." We all laughed at my statement.
I awoke before dawn. I could sense every one's concern about me and poured loving energy to ease their sleeping minds. The small influences of many gods lit up the streets of Selvis Prime almost as much as the magical lights. I used this time to steel myself against those who will doubt me and attack me for what I must tell them. I felt the reassurance from the dragons, their riders, and others awake at this early hour. Many pledged to stand with me against any protests or attackers. I thanked them for their support. My sisters awoke one at a time. They each told me how scared they were when I collapsed and how they were surprised that it was really Fate who had not only sent me the visions but had actually spoken through me. I told them Fate's instructions. They reconfirmed their positions as my sisters and friends to be with me no matter what we faced. As the rest of the palace awoke, I could feel the change in attitude towards us and me, specifically. From awe to fear to suspicion and, among a few, hatred. I chose to ignore those who had only met us once or twice since they did not know us well or even at all. Our friends, I was pleased to find, had not changed their attitudes towards any of us.
Kendar came to our room to check on me. He was genuinely pleased to see me up and well. He said the council wanted to have breakfast with us to discuss Fate's temple. We finished getting ready and went down with him to the formal dining room.
Three members of each council were present as were our friends and both royal families. Everyone waited until we had all taken our seats before anyone spoke.
"We are pleased to see you up and about, Kayla," Mara said with a smile, "Your collapse had us all worried."
"I am sorry for that. I tried to stay conscious, but it was too much for me to attempt. Fate also apologizes for any worry this caused."
"Kayla," one of the clerics began, "there are many questions we have concerning Fate and other things."
"I will answer as best I can," I replied and reached down to pat Set who was in his usual post at my feet.
Parchment was unfolded and smoothed onto the table and they sorted through them. They agreed upon the order of the questions and started.
"What is the gender of Fate? We need to know so we can erect the proper statue."
"Unfortunately, Fate is whatever gender the person best receives. To me, Fate is female. To others, Fate can be male, an animal, or some animated element. It is not wise to set up a statue that only represents one aspect of Fate's appearance. To do so may cause someone to miss out on key information if they expect only a male or female of human-like features to tell them," I responded as patiently as I could.
The clerics huddled to discuss this information. As they were gathered, the guild councilors addressed me.
"Other than the obvious business of gambling, is there any business on which Fate wishes to exercise special influence?"
I didn't know how to answer. This was not something Fate had imparted to me. I was about to tell them I had no idea when a familiar cool breeze blew through me, carrying this information.
"Fate has no interest in business. Fate is interested in people, sentient life, and civilizations. Business is a small part of civilization and that is all Fate is concerned about. No one guild will be the sole providence of Fate."
Heads bobbed as understanding was absorbed. They folded their parchments and dug into their breakfast. The clerics had rearranged their papers and put away questions that either had been answered or would not need to be asked.
"What symbol will represent Fate in the place of a statue or on documents?" the same cleric asked.
"Fate's symbol for the temple or documents is a faceted smoky mirror. This represents that the future is not always crystal clear nor straight forward or that one view is not the same as another, plus just a small step can appear to change you fate."
More head bobbing and more paper shuffling. I ate between questions. My sisters looked between them and me, silently daring any to attack me or make some outlandish statement against me. Even Set, under the table, growled under his breath as a warning.
"Is there any special day Fate wishes to be a specific holy day or any specific period of time dedicated to just Fate and no other?"
"No, Fate is present in every life at all times. Every move, no matter how small, can change our fate or bring our particular fate to fruition. Just include Fate in your 'All Gods' celebration. That will do."
They shuffled their papers more. One of the judges used their silence to ask a question.
"In difficult cases, where the verdict is hard to decide, would Fate allow us to consult a cleric to find a verdict?"
The wind blew again. I silently thanked Fate for her continuous council.
"Once the temple is finished, there will be a special room for everyone to 'let Fate decide' on a particular question, even the verdict of a trial. You will not need a cleric for this, past opening the door and activating the magic to pose the question."
Smiles erupted upon the faces of many around the table. The happy colors swirled around them. Apparently, the clerics were all out of questions as they stowed away their papers and dove into their food.
The rest of the meal passed with light topics and discussions of where to build this new temple.
After breakfast, we proceeded out of the palace and into the city to choose the site for the building. Without anyone asking, I told them where we were to go.
"Callie has already prepared the place. By the northeast wall, near a fountain Lisa has already purified, and an area of ground Sarah has healed. I will show you."
We made our way to the spot, not far from Rono's inn. Before the renovations, the odd angles of the walls and the leaning of the buildings made this area unusable to anything bigger than a shed. Now, with a straight wall and buildings, a nearly two city block area was opened up. Both the judicial council and guild council pulled out city maps and found that the plot of land was still royal property, not purchased by any citizen in Selvis Prime. The guild members began discussing contractors, engineers, labor, and all matter of details. The cool breeze from Fate brought information that made me smile. I funneled the information to my sisters, who chuckled. We received questioning looks from the rest. Kendar gave us a fatherly look.
"Girls, what are you not sharing with us?" he asked in a mock stern tone.
"No one here will build this temple. It has already been built. It is being brought as we speak," I told them all.
Wide eyes and puzzled looks were their only reply, even Kendar was at a loss. Finally, questions erupted all at once, everyone speaking over each other, even Mara and Darla were talking.
The first vibration silenced a few. The second silenced half. The third left only the loudest talkers. The fourth quieted even them. From beyond the front gates, more vibrations sounded. Between the heavy thuds, a continuous grinding sound reverberated against the wall and gates. Slowly, a member of the Stone Race came into view pulling a cart about the size of a house. All activity in the city seemed to stop. Thousands of eyes watched his approach. He did not enter the gates, but circled to the area where we stood.
"Pardon me, good people, but I have..." his surprisingly soft voice trailed off.
"Good ally, honored member of the Stone Race, we know you have brought us a building. Please, tell us about it," I gently reassured him to ease his confusion.
He sighed, "Shortly after our people were freed from the demon's influence, a stranger, made of pure clear crystal, approached me and gave me detailed instructions to build Selvis Prime a building. I fought against this, but found myself returning to this task again and again. I decided not to fight any more and took it up whole-heartily. I finished a few days ago, loaded up this cart, and headed to the surface. I got a lot of strange looks from those leaving the city. So, does this make sense to you?"
The seven of us smiled while the rest of our party and the city that had followed him to this spot just stared in silence.
"It makes perfect sense. The crystal stranger was Fate and that building is Fate's temple," I told him as one who understood.
The granite man hit his forehead with a building rattling smack. I think boulders colliding makes the same noise.
"Fate! Of course, that explains so much! My family said crystal never produced any of our race, especially clear quartz crystal. My friends feared my mind had been addled by the demon. It will please them all to know I am not insane," he said, sinking to lean on the wall to talk with us easier.
"I completely understand. I have received similar worry from my friends and family for my odd behavior due to outside influences. Even those around me still worry about me," I reassured him, "Can we see the building?"
Another building shaking forehead smack, "I nearly forgot! Of course. Is this where it goes?"
We told him it was and he set to work. Pulling the cart up to the wall, he began unloading large slabs of stone. First, he pulled off a large piece big enough for six cottages and lifted it over the wall. He climbed over the wall and found a large enough flat spot to lay this as the foundation. He positioned it so a set of pre-made steps faced the city. This piece alone was five feet thick. He walked over it to firmly sink it almost a foot into the ground and level it out. With that accomplished, he reached over the wall and heaved more slabs over. Positioning them in grooves in the floor, he set up four outside walls, each with pre-cut window and door holes. After that, he brought over the interior walls and set them into their places. He also included some interior objects. Finally, two large pieces were notched together and placed as the roof, finishing the whole construction in under thirty minutes. He stood and looked at it, at a bit of a loss.
"That was all I was instructed to do. I was not told how to fill in the gaps or make it weather worthy," he said a bit embarrassed.
"I believe that is our job, right, Callie?" I said as I turned to my sister.
She did not look surprised but understood her role. Drawing Wrath, she stood before us and held him out with the flat of the blade facing the structure. The six of us drew our swords and poured energy into her. The edges of the walls began to flow like honey, meeting each other and forming a smooth, seamless corner. Likewise, the walls and roof flowed together to firmly connect in one continuous smooth surface. When it was done, not even a needle could pierce the joints of walls and roof.
"I had heard you could do wondrous things with stone, but I would not have believed such tales if I had not witnessed this," the granite man said quietly.
All who had watched slowly approached to marvel at the new temple, caressing the now solid corners and the lowest places where roof and wall were now one and the flawless joint of wall to foundation.
We thanked the granite man and asked if he needed supplies to return home. He said he had all he needed and turned his large cart back in the directions from which he had traveled. We gave him our regards for his people and watched him rumble away.
We took our friends and associated inside the new temple. The interior was dark, being only sunlight from the windows and doors to give us light. Still, we saw one large room with a large altar a dozen paces from the door. While there was nothing on it, there were places carved for placing various objects. We borrowed a couple of magic lights from outside, which lit instantly inside the dark temple.
We were looking over the living area when a commotion outside brought our attention back to the front doorway. We saw a group of citizens preventing a group of clerics from reaching the building. Everyone was shouting.
"What is going on?" Kendar asked a nearby citizen.
"The clerics came charging over to confront the stone man. Seeing him leave, they turned their attention to this temple. They said they were going to tear it down. We are trying to keep them from doing any damage," he told us.
We were shocked. After everything, there were still people who had such hate for anything different. The three cleric councilors stepped forward to confront the clerics. Seeing their superiors, the group backed off.
"How dare you? A temple all of you clamored for has been build free of charge by an ally and your first thought is to attack the builder and tear down the temple you demanded? Explain yourselves."
"Elder, we are still unsure as to the loyalty of the Stone Race. They reside underground with the demons and other unholy creatures. We cannot be sure this building, the very stone, is not somehow tainted, or even cursed."
"If you fools had watched, the Seven Sisters have carved the stone to a suitable temple. There is nothing tainted about it nor the race that provided it."
Another group of clerics came shouting up to us. Seeing the new building, they produced large bottles of spring water.
"We are here to confront the soulless creature and eliminate any evil it has left. This building will not stand!" a puff jawed cleric bellowed to the crowd.
We did not have to say a word. The citizens and councilors, including the first set of clerics, berated this group for their stupidity and foolishness.
As we stood there, I felt a light-headiness come upon me.
Someone shouted,"Her eyes are white! Fate is among us!"
"Yes, I am among you. I am here to say that the temple pleases me and the other powers. Also, I call to all citizens to return on the morrow to populate this temple with clerics. Those who are meant to be my clerics will have the same reaction, the whitening of the eyes, as Kayla now has, to my presence. Do not let other clerics, wizards, or any 'learned' people dissuade you from presenting yourself if you feel called. Also, no race is barred from my service. I am bound to no single race and no race will claim my favoritism. Sunrise, tomorrow, will begin the search."
I stumbled as Fate left me. Everyone was still silent and looking at me. I wanted to retreat to the darkness of the temple to avoid all of those stares.
Suddenly, it dawned on everyone that they had less than a day to spread this news and prepare. The area became empty very quickly, leaving only the seven of us and our companions. We stayed at the temple until mid-day. The councilors returned to their chambers and the rest of us went back to the palace to eat. I could feel the stares that followed us. My sisters, Set, and Vanity all reassured me of their love and support.
A few people handed us small gifts and notes of thanks plus requests for small problems. Some of the requests we handed to Mara and Gavin as it was within their area of influence. The rest were simple enough and, after lunch, we took care of them. Similar to Thantos, they were requests for healing, finding lost information, and uncovering the truth.
We did this until shortly before sunset. I had to tell my sisters what I needed to do tonight.
"To prepare for finding Fate's clerics, I am to stay in the temple all night. No one has to come with me..."
"...but we are going to anyway," Callie finished my statement, "Besides, living in the palace is getting a bit old. We'll probably be heading out in a few days anyway."
"I agree," Lisa chimed in, "we still have the rest of the year and many relatives to visit and new lives to start."
"Father had expressed, at the wedding, his desire for my return," Alice meekly added, "I have duties I must attend."
"So, camp out in an empty temple," Gretta falsely smiled, "Sounds like fun."
We all laughed at her obvious lie and went to get ready for the night. We ate in our suite as we gathered pillows, blankets, and other things to make the stone floor less hard and cold.
Our friends were not happy but allowed us since they knew it was necessary. Mattis provided magical mats he said would feel like feather beds when we laid upon them. We had an escort to the temple and two guards "to keep an eye out" at the door.
Inside the temple, we placed our mats in the living area and discussed decorating ideas for the bare walls. When we grew tired, we made ourselves comfortable and went to sleep. The mats did feel nice and we thanked Mattis, again, for his thoughtfulness.
As I slept, Fate walked me through the ritual that would identify her clerics. She warned me that some would not be too happy when the clerics were revealed. I told her I understood and would face that problem when it arose. She commented again on how I accepted all of this so easily. Without thinking, I replied, "I believe in Fate." We all laughed at my statement.
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