PlaneShift
Fan Area => Roleplaying (Communitive Storywriting) => Topic started by: Arka on September 11, 2007, 12:33:34 am
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Dear Reader,
After a long absence from this board I have decided to pick up my quill again. It's time to lay this particular story to rest.
For those of you too young to remember, or those of you too old not to have forgotten, you may wish to visit the previous volumes in this Trilogy (Yes this really is the final episode). They can be found at
Arka's Return (http://hydlaa.com/smf/index.php?topic=20861.0)
and
Arka's Return 2: The Tower (http://hydlaa.com/smf/index.php?topic=23047)
For those of you of just the right age to remember or too curious to spend time revising, here is a taster. I hope you enjoy reading as much as I have enjoyed living it.
Arka
The Reckoning
Part 1: Prologue
Many months have passed since Arka’s encounter with the evil Dermorian, Sudisir. Nothing more was seen of him since his fall from the Tower and in time he slipped from memory. But Arka still had an uneasy feeling; he was never far from her thoughts, and this tormented her secretly. She could not explain it but she knew he would be back one day and that she had her greatest challenge ahead of her.
Not long after the tower-top battle, Drahlian had led the Dwarvesbane against Hammerwielders and Stonebreakers alike, in what had become to be known as the ‘Dwarven Wars’. Because of her position at the University, Arka had played no part in the wars, although she itched to fight alongside her Dwarven brothers and grieved to see so many of them fall. One by one, her students left the University to join the Dwarven Star and fight against Drahlian’s evil hordes. Many of them did not return.
Eventually, the Dwarvesbane were defeated and Dwarven Star was disbanded. Peace reigned again, but the episode had left Arka deeply troubled. She was sure that the wars had been stirred up by Sudisir and that he had intended to use the slaughter of her brethren to draw Arka into another direct confrontation. She had resisted, but not without deep feelings of guilt and responsibility. She was convinced that this was Sudisir’s revenge for being almost destroyed by her.
After the wars, nothing more was heard of Dwarvesbane, nor Sudisir. Arka became more and more involved in her teaching duties at the University, spreading knowledge of the Stonebreaker language and culture to anyone who was interested. She spent her evenings poring over her mother’s notebooks, gradually piecing together the history of the Stonebreakers, as related by the elders of her clan.
Then the day came when Lordbug retired as Director of the University, and Arka took his place. She continued to teach Stonebreaker, but more and more of her time was taken up with University business. As time went by she felt more confident with her position at the University and to her students and colleagues appeared calm and relaxed. But hardly a week went by without the dreams that had tortured her since that day on the Tower top, each one ending with the disappearance of Sudisir’s body. And each time, Arka woke, sweating and afraid. Very afraid…
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Part2. Dreaming
Arka lay between satin sheets in a sumptuously decorated room. Light filtered in through high windows, hung with gauze curtains. Familiar voices drifted up from the street below. She felt sick and disorientated; this was not her room. She tried to lift her head from the sweat-soaked pillow but blue lights flashed behind her eyes and she sank back into a delirious dream.
It was the day Lordbug had decided to retire. Arka stood in his office at the University, hardly believing what he was saying. She had only been in charge of the Faculty for a year and he was asking her to take responsibility for the whole University. She was torn between pride and fear, unsure of her abilities, but immensely pleased that Lordbug had asked her to stand in his place. It was agreed that Lordbug would stay on as Vice Chancellor, but that the day to day running of the University and Guild would fall to her, in the new role of Praesidior.
There followed a period of intense activity for Arka. Nikoren had gone travelling and showed no signs of returning; fortunately Professor Hius Mius returned around the same time and she wasted no time in appointing him Dean of Great Sciences and Craftings. A young reporter, Erelenga Karal had proven himself very able at cartography and Arka instinctively knew he could lead the Faculty of Stalactite Studies. She kept Languages, Arts and Culture for herself, leaving the Dean for Ylianities vacant for now.
Gradually the University’s once empty lecture halls began to fill as more students enrolled. Scenes flashed through Arka’s mind; her group of Stonebreaker students sitting expectantly at theoir desks; Andoryn Thaakor taking her first practical examination in Magickal Ways and feeling guilty about using an aggressive spell to kill a rat; the talented Tuathanach beating out a perfect knife blade at the forge and the beautiful Fenki, Aerianna Kzin, her first student in Creative Writing, ink spots all over her fur.
Seeing her students again soothed the pounding in her head and Arka fell once more into a deep, mercifully dreamless sleep.
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Great start to the new sequel, Arka!. Can't wait till the next installment. :D
Keep it up!
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Part 3. Missing
Arka stirred and rolled over, the springs of the bed groaning softly beneath her. Had she been able to see herself she would not have recognised her frail frame, ravaged with fever. Dark circles ringed her eyes, her cheeks were sunken and her once blonde hair was now thin and grey. Despite the potions and infusions of herbs and fruit, she failed to make any progress against the illness that raged though her body.
The next scene to flash through her mind was a familiar one. Arka was sat at her desk in the University, an opened letter before her. The words were clearly visible and Arka re-read it. It was a letter to one of her greatest students, Einnol Feldorm.
Keranet Einnol,
I cannot begin to express the debt of gratitude and honour that I and indeed all my dwarven brothers and sisters owe to you and the other brave members of the elite Dwarven Star.
We are all relieved that the War has ended and gladdened that Good has prevailed. Never again must we allow the cancer of hatred against any race to spread again.
For my part I am sad and not a little guilty that I was not able to swell the ranks of the glorious Dwarven Star, however I hope you will understand that the duties of my position would not allow such a thing. But my heart and soul was with the brave brothers defending our honour on the battlefield.
I think I am correct is asserting that more than the precious lives of our brothers were at stake here but the very culture and way of life of the Dverm. Your actions have helped to secure our rights to live in peace and free from attack. Long may it last!
This has been an historic victory and will live for generation in the tales and songs of the Perrakithor. I look forward to hearing your accounts when you are settled back in your position as leader of your guild.
Hail Einnol, Hero of the Great War of liberation!
A Felim!
Arka Garam
Arka saw herself dust the letter with silver sand, fold it carefully and seal it with a blob of red sealing wax.
She remembered how concerned she had been when Einnol had left his studies, his guild and his wife to join the fight against the Dwarvesbane. And she also remembered the guilt and shame she felt at not having put herself in the front line against this scourge. It had been a great victory, yes, but at the loss of so many.
There had been many rumours, but no one knew for certain what had led to the rise of Dwarvesbane, intent on the eradication of the Dwarf race. Arka shuddered as she remembered the last letter she had received from her mother. A whole village wiped out by Ulbernauts. And Arka thought she knew who had goaded them to attack the Dwarfs. Was the same hand behind Dwarvesbane?
*****
A change of scene. Arka was standing in the library in the University. A familiar figure sat hunched over a huge book, lit by a single candle. It was Einnol. But what was he doing in the section for Magic and Potions? He was a language student. Suddenly, seeing Arka, he ripped the page he was reading from the book, and jumped up. With a clatter, the chair and book fell to the floor and Einnol ran towards her, knocking her over in his haste to reach the door.
The book was important; she strained to remember its title. There was something about a glyph. Einnol was captivated by it. Arka remembered searching for him, but he was far away. The book was later stolen, but that had been dealt with. But the page? That had never been recovered, except for a small scrap.
****
Another scene change. Now, she was with Hius. He had the mugs with him and was working some strange magic. Something whirled inside her head; she had the sensation of floating; a strange dizzy, empty feeling. She could feel her thoughts slipping away. Then a voice spoke to her, a familiar high pitched whine. The words were unclear, but the voice made her shiver. Time began to turn in on itself; she was alone, walking the streets of Hydlaa, except this didn’t seem like Hydlaa, but a distorted mirror image. All the time the voice whined in her head.
Then the old familiar dream; the last fight with Sudisir on the Tower top, the spell flying over her head and hitting him full in the chest. Although in reality, Arka had not seen him fall, in her dreams, she always saw it clearly. She was holding on to him, trying to pull him back up to safety. But each time, his hand slipped from hers as he began the long silent fall to the bottom. She saw his twisted frame lying on the ground and woke again in a sweat.
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Arka,
You are simply amazing. I cannot wait for more.
Leama
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Thanks Suvok and Leama.
I am glad you are with me on this journey. As usual, I have to say there is much more to come - and most of it as yet unwritten. You will have gathered that this one is a little different as most of the action is going on in Arka's head. I still haven't quite worked out how it will end, but I can promise another nail-biter.
I'll be posting twice a week, I guess.
Arka
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Part 4. The dark glyph
Arka moaned quietly as the wet cloth was wiped gently across her forehead. Distant voices sounded, soothing, gentle voices. Then her lips were gently parted and the potion burned her throat as it slipped over her tongue. A few moments of flashing lights, then blackness.
What had happened to her? Briefly she revisited the scene in her mind. Her and Hius working together in the vaults. And the mugs. They had needed to test whether the glyph could be contained by the mug. Something had gone wrong, clearly. Slowly it came back to her. Hius had another glyph. A small black stone that radiated black light. The Nightmare Glyph, he had called it. He meant to test the mug with this glyph.
There was a long story about how he came by it and Arka could only remember fragments. Hius related that as a young Menki, he had discovered the glyph in the cellar of Tkaan’s house. He had been entranced by it and wanted it for his own. Tkaan was very old and sick. Hius’ mother was helping her. That was why Hius was at her house. But the moment he touched the glyph, the old Fenki died.
Hius had used the glyph to revenge himself on some of the other young Fenkis who had been bullying him. But the more he used it, the more the glyph took control of him, much as the Compulsion Glyph had controlled Einnol. Eventually, his mother took the glyph from him and he never saw it again. Until, searching in his office in the University, he found it once again, hidden in a chest of the previous Dean’s belongings. Hius had assumed his mother had brought this to the University, after she had taken it from him. Arka pondered this. It was possible that Hius’ mother had indeed taken the glyph to show the old Dean, but would she really have taken the trouble to do this? Hius had told Arka that she was a powerful priestess in the Crystal Way. Why not simply use her powers to deal with the glyph? She would not want to part company with a glyph that had seemingly killed its previous owner if to do so, would put her own son in danger…
Arka stirred again and a soft hand caressed her brow. Gradually, she slipped back into her dream
She was on the road to Ojaveda but the scene was distorted and frightening. Shapes loomed out of the darkness; strange beasts reared up in her path only to disappear again as suddenly as they had appeared. All around was the sound of mocking laughter, and above it all the high pitched whine, taunting her and goading her along the road. She knew she had to get to Akkaio; she knew she had to find Einnol, but she did not know why. Her feet ached and her head was full of voices. If such a place as Hell existed, then this was surely what it would be like. She stumbled on, repeating to herself, "Einnol... must find Einnol."
A familiar sound reached her ears; the sound of metal ringing on living rock. Arka shook her head to see if the sound would go, but it continued, a sense of reality in her twisted, demonic imaginings. She followed the sound now, with a sense on renewed urgency.
Turning the corner, she came across a group of miners, hacking rich red ore from the hillside. Seeing Arka approach they put down their picks and stared. Arka wondered what was wrong; she had no idea that having been wandering the streets of Hydlaa for so long, she had taken on the appearance of a vagabond. Her once plaited hair was waving wildly around her face. Her clothes were grubby and torn, and had the wind been in the wrong direction, the miners would have smelled her before they had seen her.
One of them a Stonebreaker walked up to her. “Are you alright?’ he began, but all Arka could do was to mumble, “Einnol… Find Einnol.”
The young Dwarf looked at her uncertainly. “He was here a while ago. He took a load of ore to Trasok – you might catch him there.”
“Trasok?”
“The blacksmith – you surely know Trasok?”
Arka shook her head.
“Go into Dsar Akkaio and ask there.” He pointed in the direction of the road and Arka wandered off, still dazed and fighting the voices in her head.
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[a most beautiful story - well told - well versed, and delightully narrated] Lolitra
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So what's your real name? I'll look out for it next time I go to the bookshop. :D
Seriously, if you haven't already, I recommend you write a novel and get it published.
My eyes are all bloodshot from staring at the screen reading those prequels.
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[OOC The next three parts are taken from a live role play - with thanks and acknowledgement to Einnol, Marqsaynt and Bam (and the others who took part) I have tidied up the dialogue a little - mainly to fix out of context remarks, but this is pretty much how it happened. This sequence also draws the line under 'A student disappears' which you might want to refresh your memory about. It can be found here (http://hydlaa.com/smf/index.php?topic=26739.0).
Anyway - on with the tale!]
Part 5. The Blacksmith Shop
Arka entered the gates of Akkaio in complete confusion. She had simply no idea where she was, and the unfamiliar architecture and palm trees added to her bewilderment. She stopped a young Menki. He was startled by her appearance, but polite enough to respond to her request for directions.
The blacksmith’s shop was busy. Trasok had received a fresh load of iron ore, and everywhere people were smelting the red minerals and pouring the molten metal into moulds to make ingots. The air was heavy with acrid smell of molten iron. The heat was almost unbearable and the noise of the smelters shouting to each other above the roar of the flames almost drowned out the voices in her head. She wandered around dazed, before slumping into a corner at the foot of the stairs, her head in her hands. How would she find Einnol in this crowd?
People tutted as they had to step over her prone figure. Clearly, they thought she was drunk or worse. By and by, a middle-aged dwarf appeared on the stairs. He looked at Arka, huddled in the corner and an expression of deep concern crossed his face.
“Noskirt?” he ventured, hardly believing that this dishevelled figure could be his professor. As Arka looked up at his face, he knelt down beside her, “Kelei, Amart?”
Arka looked into the dwarf’s eyes. They were twinkling in spite of their worried look. “Kelei Amart?” she repeated, mechanically.
A group of workers began to gather around, sensing that something was not right.
“Arka? Are you feeling well?” asked the dwarf.
Again, she repeated, “Arka?”
She reached into her satchel to pull out a sheet of paper and handed it to him, “I need to find this dwarf.”
He studied the paper. On it was written one word: Einnol. “You have found him,” he said, shaking his head.
“Where?” She looked around in desperation.
The blacksmith shop fell silent as people put down their tools and strained to see what was happening.
The dwarf pointed a stubby finger towards himself, “You do not remember me?”
“Are YOU Einnol?” Arka shook her head sadly.
Einnol scratched his beard, now completely confused, “Aye, I am.”
Arka looked intently at the dwarf. “I am s-sorry sir,” she stammered, “I just know I needed to find you. I have s-something important to ask you.” She was searching in his eyes for a clue, but found none.
“Continue.” Einnol smiled gently, wondering what could have happened to his teacher and dear friend.
But all Arka could do was to mutter, “Mugs… mugs.”
“Beer mug? Are you thirsty?” Some people started to snigger, but Einnol waved them to be quiet.
“It was Hius… He tried to use the Mug... The Greater Mug of Darkness.”
Einnol’s eyes narrowed.
Arka continued, “You spoke to me in a strange language. What did it mean?”
Einnol took a deep breath and exhaled slowly. He shook his head sadly, “It was Pel Perrakithor. You have been studying it for years, continuing your mother’s work. Something very bad has happened to you Arka, something very bad indeed.”
“No! Something bad has happened to Einnol. I have to help him!” Arka tried to get up, clearly agitated.
“I am Einnol. And I am fine.”
Arka managed a weak smile, “You are Einnol?”
He nodded.
“And you are well?”
Einnol answered slowly and deliberately, “Aye”
Arka slumped back against the wall. “…Pel Perrakithor?”
“I think we need to get you somewhere to rest, Arka.”
“My Mother? She is here?”
Einnol looked down, “We need to find you some help…preferably someone who might… understand what has happened better than I.”
“You know my mother?”
“Nay, I did not.”
“Did not? Why ‘did’ not?”
Einnol looked into her eyes. They were starting to fill with tears. “Your mother died some time ago, Arka,” he said gently.
Arka’s face crumpled and she began to sob uncontrollably.
“She is stirring!” said an unfamiliar voice, close by.
“No, it is the fever – she is delirious. Get some wet towels – she needs cooling down.”
Soft hands gently wiped Arka’s brow while one of the maids adjusted the pillows and straightened the satin sheet on her bed.
“Poor dear,” said the voice again, "If only we could find out what is causing this. Any news from Printh?”
“No? Then we can only hope she makes it through another night.”
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[can't wait for the next installment - ps, your quotation marks on the penultimate paragraph are in the wrong place...]
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[Thank you Lolitra - fixed]
Arka
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Arka,
I am your number one fan. You are just extraordinary!!
Leama
(I will bow to you the next time I see you in game, no one deserves it more.)
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Part 6. Returning
Einnol looked around the Blacksmith’s shop in desperation. There must be something he could do. He left Arka to speak to a tall Diaboli, leaning against the wall. Arka heard him say, “There's only one blasted healer I trust... but unless I miss my guess, this doesn't exactly seem to be your typical, uh, aliment." His eyes strayed to the door.
Einnol turned round, to see a young Menki walking towards him. He pushed his way through the crowd.
“Arka! At last I have found you!” he announced.
All eyes were on the newcomer.
“Do you know me?” asked Arka.
“Of course I do, Arka.”
Einnol studied him carefully. “And you are…”
He held out a hand, but Einnol didn’t take it. “Bam. That’s what they call me.”
“You know my name,” said Arka.
Bam smiled uncomfortably, “What’s going on?”
“Arka means ‘pretty’ you know,” Arka said, dreamlike, “My mother told me that…”
Einnol’s face broke into a broad grin. "Aye. You do remember something."
“Tell me some more Pel, Einnol.”
Einnol shifted uncomfortably. " Ummm ... like what? I am but a student. You are the teacher.”
Arka looked up, puzzled, “I am a teacher? …No, my mother is a teacher. I am a weapon smith.”
“Aye. You are. But, also a teacher as well.”
“I am? What do I teach? Smithing?”
“Hmmm ... not quite. Ancient languages and cultures.”
Arka giggled, and Einnol nodded again before giving Bam a lost look.
“Did I… teach you?”
Einnol turned back to Arka. “Aye.”
Arka’s eyes widened. “Languages?”
Bam looked quizzically at Einnol then turned to look again at Arka.
Einnol said gently, “Stonebreaker. …Pel Perrakithor.”
“Pel… Perrakithor.” Repeated Arka, staring into space. Then, as if she were reading the words from the wall in front of her, started to recite, “Pelo… Pelor… Pel…”
Einnol started, a gleam of hope in his eyes, “Go on...”
“Peloth, Pelorth…Pelith.”
“Rodgara! Very Good!”
“Garamdor” replied Arka a look of glee and surprise on her face.
Einnol smiled widely. “I think it is coming back to you.”
“Aven” said Arka, “Eh! Aven.”
Arka put her hand to her head, as if expecting to find something there. The voices were starting to quieten.
She slowly rose to her feet. “Yo Noskirt!”
“Aye,” Ennol responded, “You are wise.”
Arka rubbed her eyes as if seeing for the very first time. “Einnol! The glyph! What happened to the glyph? We wanted to contain it... in the Mugs.”
“’Tis all right. It is no longer…”
A look of alarm crossed her face, “How? Who? …What?”
Einnol chuckled. “Slow down,” he said.
“I tried to find you, I really did. But Hius wanted me to help him with the Mugs. Bam! What are you doing here?”
Bam looked uncomfortable. Einnol quizzed him, “And how do you know Arka?”
“I… She is my guild leader.”
“So… You are a Knowledge Seeker as well?”
Bam nodded.
Arka was frantically searching in her bag. She pulled out a tiny scrap of parchment.
“Then ‘tis good to meet you, Bam. I am Einnol Feldorm, son of Konor. And this ... is Marqsaynt,” said Einnol, waving towards the Diaboli.
Arka held the scrap of paper towards Einnol, “I remembered the question!” She turned towards the Diaboli, “Oh! Good day Marqsaynt.”
Einnol took the paper.
Marqsaynt nodded to Arka. "A pleasure... how are you feeling?"
Arka looked puzzled for a moment, but continued, “This scrap I found under the table in the library. I believe it came from the book you were looking at when I disturbed you.”
Marqsaynt grinned, "Gods, if that is from the page everyone wanted from that blasted book..."
“Did you tear the book, Einnol? I need to know.” She looked at him kindly.
Einnol studied the scrap briefly and handed it back. He hung his head, ashamed. "I know not for sure. I have been told that I did. And ... perhaps it was me. I remember only pieces of those last few weeks.”
Arka sighed.
“Tis possible ... Aye,” he mumbled.
Marqsaynt looked at Einnol.”I heard it was missing a page... wasn't exactly from a reliable source though.”
Einnol was staring at his hands.
Arka went on, “But you can't remember what happened to the page?”
Einnol shook his head slowly without looking up.
“Thank you, Einnol - I needed to know that.”
Arka frowned for an instant, then smiled broadly, although her eyes betrayed her concern.
Einnol continued. “I remember vaguely being in the library and running into someone ..I think it was you.”
“It was - but don't worry - no harm done.”
Marqsaynt was still staring at the scrap in Arka’s hands. “So... what's that little piece of insignificant paper say?”
“There is only one word on the paper, Marqsaynt. A very little, but entirely significant word, I fear.”
Marqsaynt raised an eyebrow "...and what word is that?"
Arka held up the parchment and showed the word 'not'. Marqsaynt squinted to read it.
“If this is from the right page, losing the word 'not' would make quite a difference.”
Marqsaynt nodded slowly then grinned. "I can imagine."
She went on, “If you had used this page, Einnol, to try to control the glyph, I would not be speaking to you now. The glyph is gone you say?”
Einnol finally raised his head slightly, "Aye. ‘Tis different now ... changed.”
Arka thought about this, “I believe it was the last of it's kind...I hope so.”
Marqsaynt raised an eyebrow at Einnol, "...maybe it was a good thing we never tested it out, Pal."
Einnol nodded to Marqsaynt "Aye. But, ... I did."
Marqsaynt blinked and Einnol nodded slowly.
Arka’s eyes widened, “Not with the instructions from the book?”
“Nay. Not from the book. The voice.”
Arka looked thoughtful, “Ah, the voice.”
Marqsaynt shifted uncomfortably. “Who'd you test it on, Pal? ...Hyuken?”
Einnol nodded sadly. "And Netrhys as well. Hyuken was not affected. I fear that I gave Netrhys a bad headache.”
Arka closed her eyes as she heard again the voice of the Greater Mug resonating in her head.
Marqsaynt shrugged. "Could have been worse."
Arka smiled. “If that was all, she was lucky.”
Einnol nodded. “Aye. I still did not fully understand how to use it. ‘Tis a good thing that I am not good with magic.”
Arka looked squarely at Einnol. “No more dabbling then?”
Marqsaynt chuckled "...Yeah Pal, not even to learn how to pull a groffel out of a hat."
Arka ignored this. “But I'll see you back in my language classes, I hope?”
Einnol grinned slightly in spite of himself. “Aye, Arka. .... If ... if you will have me.” He looked down shamefully.
“Of course I'll have you back Einnol!”
Einnol’s face broke into a smile once more. "Garamdor."
Arka helped Einnol to his feet and gave him a big hug. She drew back suddenly. ”Oooh - sorry - I think that smell is me!”
Einnol chuckled and hugged Arka again.
She blushed. “I need a bath.”
“Eh.” He laughed, and Arka joined in.
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Part 7. A Peaceful night
The herbalist summoned from Printh by Queen Lolitra put the back of her hand against Arka’s forehead and smiled.
“The fever seems under control, your highness.”
“But is she improving?”
“I can’t say. At least she is holding her own.”
“Very well, I shall leave her in your capable hands.”
With that, Lolitra turned and swept out of the room, with her maid in attendance.
The herbalist was a young Xacha, and intensely proud of her work. She returned the phial she was holding to her leather case and admired the array of glass jars, each neatly labelled and arranged in order. These contained the essential oils, the dried leaves and roots she used in her work.
A small notebook lay on the table. In it, she wrote her entry in small neat handwriting. She took another look at the sleeping dwarf and frowned slightly. The physick had said this was a worm in the brain, but she was not so sure. Arka had been ill for many days; by now the worm would have done its damage. But there had been no fits, and her eyes showed no sign of the tell-tale streaks of blood. She hoped he did not ask her to move to the next stage of the cure. If there was a worm she would need to administer doses of the most poisonous herbs she had; if there was no worm, this could kill the patient. For now, it was enough to treat the symptoms. She would talk to the physick in the morning.
Arka drifted into another dream...
A hot bath and a change of clothes had lifted her spirits. Her hair was neatly braided again and she smelt of rose hips and lavender. A mug of her favourite brew was ready waiting for her when she descended into the Brado’s bar.
Einnol rose to his feet. “Are ... are you going to be alright?
“I think so - I will need to talk to Hius about what happened. And that page... well there is a little problem with what was written on the OTHER side, but we'll cross that bridge when we find it.”
Einnol nodded. “Very well.
Arka sat down at the table, delighted to find a fresh mug of ole fallin’ down in front of her. “Let's just hope it stays lost eh?”
Einnol replied, enigmatically, “Tis Jagk's burden now.”
Marqsaynt looked quizzically at Arka. “So, that book is still valuable even with the glyph changed?”
“The book? Why ? Do you know where it is?”
Einnol shot a look at Marqsaynt "It does have much information on the ancient glyphs."
Marqsaynt shrugged. "I heard some two-tria thief had it..."
Arka frowned. “That rogue. I wish I could remember his name...”
Marqsaynt stroked his chin. "Yeah."
Arka turned to him. “He won't know how to use it though.”
Marqsaynt wasn’t sure if this was a question or a statement. “He was offering it to the highest bidder.”
Einnol leant forward. “He may know quite a bit, Arka.”
Marqsaynt shook his head. “He doesn't care... just wants to make a profit.”
Einnol turned to Arka. “He ... helped us encase it.”
“Really?”
Einnol nodded.
Arka thought about this. “And he still has the book.”
Marqsaynt smirked. "Unless Sangwa bought it."
Einnol shook his head. “I know not. I never saw the book after that night in the library. Except for when Coneitic flaunted it.”
“Coneitic! Ah yes.” She shrugged. “Ah well, it's a shame but I'll have to destroy it. Of course we can do it remotely.”
Marqsaynt grinned. "You can destroy it?"
“All our books are enchanted. I only needed it back to contain the glyph.”
Marqsaynt’s eyes lit up. “I just wish I could see that blasted Menki's face when it happens...”
Now it was Einnol’s turn to grin. "If he still has it, so would I, Marqsaynt."
“Now you are safe I can ask Hius to turn the book to ashes. It's a shame, but it's only a book, after all,” Arka continued, “I just hope it's hidden under his bed.”
Marqsaynt laughed. "I hope it's under his pillow."
Einnol nodded to Marqsaynt in agreement and chuckled. “I would pay to see that.”
“First thing tomorrow, I'll get Dean Mius onto it.”
Einnol took a draught of ale and nodded slowly "I am sorry about this loss to the library, Arka."
“Like I say, it's only a book - and it taught us a valuable lesson. We keep the library locked now!”
Marqsaynt laughed again.
The company fell silent, each lost in their thoughts.
Arka’s thoughts were the darkest. Of course they could destroy the book. All except the missing page. That was what bothered her. Without the compulsion glyph, the charm would be useless. But on the reverse side of the page, she knew there was a much more powerful charm. One that didn’t need the glyph. And in the wrong hands…
-
[this is great... Lolitra would at sometime actually sit at her side - insisting on daubing her head to cool her fever.]
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Part 8: A doctor calls
“I’m sorry, but I think my diagnosis still stands.”
“But doctor, there has been no fitting – and look at her eyes – no sign of damage there.”
“I admit she has been fortunate so far, but if the worm is allowed to continue its work, she will lose her mind.”
“And if I give the wrong treatment, she will die.”
“We have already left it too long. Without the treatment, this dwarf will be reduced to an imbecile.”
“I have the fever under control now. Can’t we give it a few more days?”
“She has shown no sign of recovery?”
The Xacha looked down, “None,” she conceded.
“I think that rather proves my case…”
“Please take another look at her. I am really not sure that this is what it seems.” She was pushing the boundaries of her profession, and she knew it.
“Hrmmph! Very well. If it will help you to better understand my diagnosis.”
The physick walked across to the bed and pulled back the sheet, revealing Arka’s shrunken frame.
“Here we see a female Stonebreaker dwarf, aged around 150 years.” He spoke to the herbalist as he might lecture a first year student. “Middle aged for a dwarf, by the way. Very emaciated. That’s often a sign of parasitic infestation. Pulse weak and fast. Has had a fever, loss of hair, pupils dilated, slow reaction to light. Need I go on?”
“Please do. I find it most… illuminating.”
The physick wheeled round and seeing that the Queen had entered the room bowed deeply. The Xacha was standing behind Lolitra looking deeply embarrassed.
“You may continue, Doctor. I find it most fascinating. You do know that this ‘middle aged dwarf’ is a good friend of mine?”
Now it was the physick’s turn to be embarrassed. “I... I was just explaining to the herbalist that this was clearly a case of brain worm.”
“Then there is some doubt?”
“Absolutely not!” retorted the physick.
“I was asking Xathia.”
The Xacha blushed deeply, hearing the Queen address her by her first name.
“I… Your majesty, I… There are some things about this illness that don’t… make sense.”
The physick snorted.
“Please explain.”
“Well, the fever was relatively easy to control. With an infestation there is usually an underlying infection that feeds the fever. Arka has had no fits – none of your servants have reported anything like that and her eyes are clear – usually they should be bloodshot.”
The physick lifted one of Arka’s eyelids and frowned.
“But I am not criticising the physick, your majesty.”
“I should think not! He is the best in Hydlaa! But then you, my dear Xathia, are the best herbalist in Yliakum.”
The queen turned towards the physick who was looking closely at Arka’s hands. “Well?”
“Your herbalist may just have saved your friend’s life, your majesty. I have to admit that I was wrong. The skin tone is incorrect.” He pinched the skin on the back of Arka’s hand. “And there seems to be no swelling around the joints. I am afraid I will have to rethink my diagnosis.”
Xatihia suppressed a smile.
“Then please do so quickly,” continued Lolitra, “I want her health restored. She must not die. Do I make myself understood?”
“Of course, your majesty,” replied the physick and herbalist in unison.
Lolitra swept out leaving the two to sort out their differences and get on with the job of saving Arka’s life.
-
Part 9: The Royal House of Purrty
Arka slept soundly that night. The fever did not return and she seemed to be holding a steady course. Xathia had set up a camp-bed next to Arka in case her condition deteriorated but for now everything was progressing well. The physick had spent several hours with her earlier that day, but neither could find an obvious physical cause for Arka’s illness.
Xathia lay beneath a rough blanket and smiled. He wasn’t so bad once you got to know him, she thought. His earlier condescension was a bluff, to hide the fact he was out of his depth. As was she. She had never seen anything like this. It was only Arka’s determination that was keeping her alive, but something very powerful was making her ill. No sign of infection, no parasite, in fact nothing to indicate that she was not a healthy dwarf.
She had given Arka a powerful herbal draft to build her strength, in the hope that this would help to bring her out of the coma. Two weeks had passed since Arka had first come to the queen’s house and in all that time had shown no signs of recovery.
Xathia sighed, yawned and turned over. In a few moments she, too was asleep.
Arka woke in her own bed in the University, feeling lost and disorientated. She had been hunting Trepors the day before – or was it longer? She must have caught a chill. Her bones ached, she felt sick and dizzy and her head was pounding. She reached for the jug of water by her bed and took a deep draft. It tasted stale, but quenched her thirst.
She needed to find Erelenga and ask him to look after things while she was ill. Gently swinging her legs out of bed, she steadied herself on the chair beside her bed. Lights flashed behind her eyes and she sat down heavily.
“Steady, Arka, don’t overdo it,” she said to herself.
After a few moments, she felt steady enough to pull on a pair of breeches and a shirt. She slowly made her way down the stairs, hanging onto the rail, slipped her feet into her boots and stepped outside into the day.
As she walked into the Plaza she could see Erelenga and Andoryn talking with a young Xacha. Andoryn caught sight of her and ran towards her shouting, “Arka!”
Arka managed a weak wave back. “Hello Andoryn.”
Erelenga wheeled round. “Praesidior!”
Andoryn saw that Arka was limping and took her arm.
Arka smiled as she climbed the steps. “Thank you, Andoryn. I'm sorry I'm not at my best.”
Reaching the top step, she sat down abruptly on the grass. She immediately felt better to be among her friends.
Andoryn looked at Arka with concern. “You look terrible…”
Arka nodded. “I know. I only just managed to get out of bed.”
Andoryn smiled, “It’s good to see you though!”
“I couldn't wait to see you two. I thought I was going to die.”
“You missed Sarine and Agara,” said Andoryn.
“That’s a shame.”
Erelenga walked up to the two. “Sarine could have made you something useful to eat. She knows how to make tasty sandwiches.”
He looked over Arka’s head. “Is that the queen over there?”
Arka tried to look round. “The queen?”
“Lolitra Purrty. I'd recommend you to meet her,” he said.
Arka struggled to get up. “Ah I know Lolitra.”
Erelenga smiled. “I hope she will remember you.”
Andoryn frowned to see Arka so weak. “Arka, you really look like you've been mauled by an Ulber. What happened to you?”
“I don't know,” she replied, “I thought I'd caught a chill out hunting.”
Erelenga looked at Arka. “You don't sound very optimistic.”
“I don't feel very optimistic.”
He continued, “Well, Lolitra might have other ideas... She is a healer. Just wait here a minute.” He walked off, and Arka fell silent, just watching the people come and go.
Andoryn was deep in thought. “I could help if I knew the cause,” she muttered to herself.
Arka looked up to see Erelenga with a beautiful and richly-dressed Fenki.
Lolitra nodded to all.
Arka smiled and tried again to get to her feet. “Greetings old friend.”
Behind her, Andoryn, apparently oblivious to the queen’s arrival, was still muttering to herself, “Don’t know about potions, but I know who does, and with my magic, I'd get Arka running like a young stonebreaker again... But no... Of` course not...”
Lolitra motioned Arka to sit and knelt beside her. “Lady Garam, you.. look... well... I wish I could say well, but... no.. you look... rather off colour.”
She reached out and touched her cheek. Her touch was warm and soothing, and Arka smiled.
Lolitra looked into Arka’s eyes. “You seem rather, um... not yourself, Lady Garam?”
“Myself? No, not myself,” she replied, “I don't really feel like anyone just now.”
Lolitra nodded. “I shall go directly to my library and read up on this... that you show symptoms of..” Her voice trailed off.
Arka shook her head slowly. “I fear this may be the end of me.”
“No, please. Let me help you, Arka. I will go ahead and make arrangements.”
Arka looked puzzled, not understanding what Lolitra had meant. “Thank you, Lolitra. Take care. We shall meet again.”
Lolitra stood up and whispered something to Erelenga.
Arka heard him say, “I will show Lady Arka your home, where she can enjoy the hospitality of your household.” Then she understood. The queen meant to take care of her. For a moment she thought of refusing, but realising that this was just her dwarfish pride, relented.
Lolitra nodded. “I shall be as fast as I can. I shall let my maid Melinya know we shall expect company.” She flashed a warm smile at Arka, briefly nodded to the company and went on her way.
Erelenga helped Arka to her feet and she thanked him. “Lady Arka, please let me show you to Queen Lolitra’s home in Hydlaa – that is if you don't know it already.”
“That would be very kind, Erelenga.”
“It is just opposite from the library,” he replied, taking Arka’s arm.
Goodbye Andoryn. I expect I’ll see you in good time,” said Arka
Andoryn smiled and embraced her.
Then she and Erelenga made their way slowly across the Plaza and into East Hydlaa. In time, they arrived at a grand house, made of marble, with bright crystals set in the stone.
“Here we are,” said Arka, recognising the Royal household.
“Yes. Isn't it pretty?” Erelenga smiled.
“And not so far from the University,” replied Arka.
“Let Melinya take care of you until Lolitra returns.” He knocked on the door.
“Melinya?”
Erelenga smiled at Arka. “The housekeeper. She is a wizard at the oven. With her pies, you will be back to your strength in a week.”
Arka shook her head. “I cannot each much just yet. You must tell the students I am recovering with the Queen's household.”
“I'll post a notice in the Common Room.”
“Thank you, Erelenga. Take care of the University while I am gone.”
“Take your time. You need to get your strength back.”
Arka managed a wan smile. “I will see you again soon, Dean?”
“Next weekend, surely.”
Arka bowed unsteadily. “Until then.”
He looked up as the door opened. A round, fresh faced Ylian of indeterminate age looked at the pair stood on the doorstep, nodded to Erelenga, wiped her hands on her apron and took Arka’s arm. Arka allowed herself to be taken inside, suddenly feeling very tired.
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:) simply devine story.. I am rivited - even though I was part of it.. it is still gripping now.
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Great read, Arka, brought back some good memories. :)
Just one little thing though, Marqsaynt is a tall Diaboli not a "tall Ynnwn," though I know it may be tough to tell just by looking at him. :P
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Ooops!
Sorry Marqsaynt.
I'll edit that.
Arka
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Thanks Arka. :)
I'm actually just impressed you remembered what skin he was in at all, if it was me I'd probably be trying to remember back and going "Marqsaynt... Marqsaynt... Wasn't he a menki?" :lol:
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Arka,
I hope you are well. I am so impressed with your story telling, I cannot wait for more. Thank you for the entertainment.
Leama.
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Part 10. Awakening
Arka woke with a start. It was pitch black in the room, the heavy velvet curtains blocking all light from the windows. She felt the satin against her skin and the comfortable pillows beneath her head and gradually became aware that she was not in her own bed. She was startled by a snuffling sound beside her and realised that she was also not alone.
Every inch of her body ached. Instinctively, Arka knew that whatever magic had been used to bring her back to life, it had not cured her. She had the strongest feeling, a certainty that she was about to die. Oddly, she thought to herself that this did not worry her. In fact, she felt reassured, almost pleased.
Slowly, silently, she pulled herself up into a sitting position and then swung her legs over the side of the bed. They didn’t touch the floor. Now she remembered where she was. Lolitra had taken her into her own home to care for her.
Arka carefully slid off the side of the bed until her feet made contact with the thick carpet. She suddenly realised she was naked and felt around her trying to make no noise; she did not want to disturb her sleeping companion. She reached the wall, and continued to feel her way along it. Reaching the corner, Arka saw a glimmer of light shining near the floor and realised that this must be the door to her room. The handle was at her head height. She found it easily and gently turned it. The door opened a fraction, spilling light from the candle in the hallway into the bedroom. Now she could make out the form of a body, lying on a low bed alongside her own. To her right was an armchair, upon which lay her clothes, neatly folded.
Arka dressed slowly and silently, noticing her clothes had been freshly laundered. She wondered what she should do. It was clearly late at night. Should she wait for the household to wake? She wondered how long she would have before she died. Hours? A day? Two days, maybe. She had no time to lose. There were things she needed to see to before her death. A successor to choose for her mother’s legacy. With a new sense of urgency, she realised she would have to put etiquette aside. She could leave a letter for Lolitra. There were more important issues at stake.
She made her way to the end of a long corridor and opened the door at its end. It opened onto a dimly lit staircase, winding down into a grand entrance hall. The room was dominated by a huge pair of ornamental scales in its centre. At the far end was a balcony with a black marble balustrade. Arka could imagine Lolitra addressing her household from it and smiled. So much grander than the University.
She found her way down the stairs and to the front door. Taking one last look around her, she opened the door silently and stepped out into the cool night air.
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Part 11 The University
Arka arrived at the University to find the door unlocked. Tutting, she stepped inside and made her way up the long staircase to her chambers. She stopped several times to regain her breath. Each time she felt as though a heavy weight had been placed on her shoulders, so that by the time she walked through her own front door, she could only manage to slump into the chair by her desk.
Finding her tinderbox, she struck sparks into the powder, but was unable to get a flame. She prodded the powder gingerly with a finger. The grains stuck to her skin, too damp to light. Arka shook her head. She had a fresh packet in the desk, but in the dark it was hard to find. Eventually, her hand landed on the small package of waxed paper. She replaced the contents of the box and struck the firestone again. This time she was successful. Lighting the candle on her desk, she took stock of the tasks ahead of her.
“First a list,” she said to herself. Taking a piece of fresh parchment she opened an inkwell on her desk and dipped in her quill. The ink was dry.
Arka pondered this. She distinctly remembered filling it the night she returned from hunting the Trepors so that she could write her journal. She reached for the ink bottle at the back of her desk and was perplexed to find it had moved. Only a few inches, but enough for her to notice. Sure enough, the ring of ink from its base was clearly visible where it usually sat on the desk. It was then she noticed the dust; not a week’s dust, but many weeks, perhaps months. It covered the surface of her desk. How long had she been ill? The cold feeling of dread enveloped her again, touching her soul and reminding her that she had very little time.
Putting thoughts of dusting aside, she carefully filled the inkwell, picked up her quill and started to write.
Letters:
Lolitra
Erelenga
Sarine
Yes, Sarine. Sarine could be trusted to do what Arka asked. She wouldn’t question the need to keep this quiet. She would hand over the notebooks and get on with her life, the boys kept her very busy. She wouldn’t try to interfere.
Then a sense of foreboding struck Arka and she put down the quill. What if someone else found the letter before Sarine? Maybe she should hide the notebooks? No, not in the University. They would be found. Where else? No one except the guards would be about at this time. She had to think quickly.
Then it struck her. It was such an obvious solution, she wondered why she hadn’t thought of it immediately. This needed some planning. She would lay a trail to slow down the followers. Once it was discovered she was missing, there would be all kinds of people trying to find her. She didn’t want that. She could not bear the thought of her body being dispatched down one of the wells, as was the way here. She had to get away from Hydlaa if she was to be reunited with the souls of her parents. She slid open the drawer of her desk and rummaged through the papers. Eventually, she found what she was looking for; a pair of tiny keys, one gold, the other silver, hanging on a slim necklace.
She carefully removed the silver key from the chain and smiled. She put the chain round her neck and the silver key in her pocket. Then turning back to her list, she added:
Food for three days
Pack clothes (the white gown)
pack notebooks
Now she had her thoughts in order, she could get started. First, she packed a small knapsack with a change of clothes. She opened the chest that stood at the foot of her bed and lifted out the top divider. Beneath it was a white silken gown, wrapped in tissue. It rustled as she took it out. She pressed the silk to her face, savouring the sensation of the soft fabric on her skin. Her friend Zorbels had given it to her to wear as a bridesmaid at her wedding to Satayne. The gown brought back the memories of a sunny day in Oja, a procession on Ulber furs, Brado’s bar decked with rubies and other precious gems and Proglin Unsir’s wonderful games. Arka had fancied that she might use it for her own wedding one day, but that was not to be. Now it would serve her well as a shroud.
She carefully wrapped the gown in its protective paper and set it gently on top of her clothes in the rucksack.
Next, she moved the chest of drawers from the corner and lifted the loose floorboard. She groped underneath it until her fingers found the thin cord. Pulling gently, she retrieved the package of papers, wrapped in oiled Tefusang skin, to protect them from damp.
She emptied her leather satchel and dropped the package into it, fastening the buckle securely. Turning back to her list she crossed off the last two items, then thought about getting some food. She knew there was a little smoked meat and fish in the kitchen. Everything else would have perished, she guessed. While she was downstairs, she could see to the other business.
Arka put her bag and satchel on the bed, along with her leather armour and woollen cloak. She reached above the fireplace and carefully lifted two Great Axes from their mountings. She was surprised at how heavy they felt, and for a brief moment contemplated leaving them behind. But then the pride of the weapon smith took over and she placed them beside her armour, before setting off downstairs to complete the other tasks.
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Ahhh! The constant cliffhangers are damaging my ability to stay sane!
Keep up the great work, Arka!
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Thakks for the comments, Suvok and Leama
I am afraid you'll have to wait a week for the next instalment I hope your fingernails survive!
Arka
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I hope so. I'll need my fingernails for the next cliffhanger
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Great writing as always, Arka. It's so nice to read about and remember these experiences. I'm excited to keep reading about the events in the story that I missed in-game and honored to have been part of the other ones. Keep up the good work. \\o//
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Um...you went from part 9, to part 12, to part 11...might wanna check that, Arka.
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Arka,
I cannot get enough. Simply riveting. Keep up the great work!
Leama
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Um...you went from part 9, to part 12, to part 11...might wanna check that, Arka.
Thanks for that - edited
Einnol! Great to see you back - I need to check some stuff out with you, please PM me
Leama - you are too kind (but please don't stop!)
Arka
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Part 12 Letters
Arka returned to her room with a small package of meat and fish. It was barely enough, but would have to do. Now for the letters. She opened a drawer in her desk and took out a portfolio. She was saving this parchment for her final manuscript, but that would not now be written, at least not by her. She took the first sheet and laid it in front of her. Dipping the quill in the ink, she began to write in a small neat hand:
Her Royal Highness
Queen Lolitra
High Royal House of Purrty
Your Highness,
I am immensely grateful for your help in recovering me to my current state. I wish I could say I was back to my old self, but I fear that may take a good time and plenty of rest to achieve. I am also sorry that I left your household in such a hurry, without a word of my destination. I hope you did not take this as discourteous or ungrateful; one day, I will be able to reveal to you the reason for my sudden departure. Suffice it to say; I had good intentions.
I shall be forever in your debt, for without the care and potions that were lavished on me, I doubt I would have survived the crisis of my illness. Now that I am recovering, I can reveal that the illness, as such it was, was indeed beyond the reach of the healing cures. However, the potions did keep me alive long enough to fight it. When I am stronger I shall write of what became of me after I left your household, but for now I must rest and take stock.
If there is anything I can do or give you, name it and it shall be done.
Your grateful servant
Arka Garam
Arka felt slightly ashamed of the pretence, but did not want Lolitra to worry about her. Least of all she did not want her trying to find her. She would only bring her back to Hydlaa. The letter was vague enough to give her the impression she had gone away to recover. Satisfied, Arka dusted the parchment with silver sand, folded it carefully and sealed it with a drop of wax, meted in the spluttering candle flame.
Now for Erelenga. Putting the Queen’s letter to one side, she started on another sheet of parchment.
Erelenga Karal
Dean of Stalactite Studies
University of Yliakum
From the Office of the Praesidior
Dear Dean Karal,
I find myself much recovered, thanks to your timely intervention. I have much to thank you for your quick thinking and care. I have decided to go away for a little time to recover fully, before taking up my duties again at the University. While I am away, I would like you to take charge here, call the staff and students together and make the arrangements for the new semester.
You will find also a letter for the Queen. I would be very grateful if you could see this gets to her. Please make sure she receives it in person.
Rest assured that you have my full confidence and authority.
Arka Garam
Praesidior of the University
Arka dropped wax at the foot of the letter and endorsed it with the University Seal. Again, she felt a little uneasy about misleading Erelenga, but the University must come first, and she did not want him chasing after her.
She waited for the wax to cool then wrapped both letters together in a third sheet of parchment, tying the bundle with string and sealing it with wax. She wrote Erelega’s name on the outside.
Now the difficult letter. She had to take care with this one.
(http://img87.imageshack.us/img87/7925/sarinelettergd0.gif)
She smiled to herself. That should slow them down a little! Of all people, Arka felt the most regret at leading Sarine on, but she knew she could trust her. She wouldn’t tell anyone else about this, she was sure.
She read this letter again, to make sure she hadn’t given anything away. Moving across to her jacket hanging on the back of the door, she took a leather purse from its pocket. Back at her desk, she emptied its contents onto her desk and picked up a scrap of parchment. She looked at this for a brief moment, remembering the trouble it had caused, before carefully folding Sarine’s letter around it.
She looked at the trias on the desk and another thought struck her. What if she died before she got to her destination? Another letter was needed.
She hastily jotted down a note ‘To Whom it may concern’ promising a reward if the person finding her body would carry out her wishes. Then she left specific instructions about where they should leave her body and the package of papers, and from whom the reward could be claimed. She sealed this, together with the coins and placed it inside her shirt.
Was that all? Arka was almost reluctant to leave, but knew that the longer she waited, the less was the chance of her making it alive to her final destination. She buckled herself into her armour, tied her precious axes round her belt, hoisted the knapsack onto her shoulders, buckled the precious satchel round her waist and fastened the cloak with the brooch she had rescued from her family home all those years ago.
She gauged the weight and decided that she could manage, if she travelled slowly. She would leave by the North Gate before the dawn. The guards were used to people setting off early on hunting trips; they would not question her. She would deliver Sarine’s letter on her way. Taking a last look around the room that had been her home for such a long time, she closed the door and set off on her final journey.
As the door closed, a light draft stirred the papers on her desk and Arka did not see her list of tasks fall to the floor.
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Theirah waits in suspense on the cliffhanger
w00t! :thumbup: Love it!
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Arka, oh Arka, I am so worried for you! Please give us word of your condition soon.
(keep up the great work) I wish you could write an installment everyday. You are the best!!
Leama.
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Part 13 The Bakery
It was five o’clock, not yet light, and Sarine Arquet was lighting her ovens. The business had been doing well of late. She was finally making enough money to give her boys the life they deserved. They had had a hard life, no father and a cold damp home in the cave. But all that had changed now, thanks to Arka.
She remembered the day they had met in the Tavern and Arka had suggested she became a student. Her! A student! At first it seemed laughable, but Arka had persisted. Soon after, Arka had found space at the University and helped Sarine and her family move in. She even sent a couple of Krans to move her belongings.
She had heard that Arka had been ill and that she was being cared for by the Queen. The boys had pestered her to visit, but Sarine was too afraid to approach the Royal Household. She was sure they wouldn’t want her visiting. Not with the Queen being there, and everything. She would wait until Arka came home again. Then she would bake her a nice pie.
She heard the boys getting up and frowned. This was far too early for them; they got so tired in the afternoons and then they would start arguing. She would put them back to bed and hope they managed to sleep a little longer. She left the kitchen to find Joana in the hallway, with a letter in his hand.
“This is for you, mom. It says ‘Sarine’ on it.” Joana was proud of his reading skills and never wasted an opportunity to show them off.
Sarine took the letter and immediately recognised Arka’s neat, round handwriting. “It’s from Aunty Arka, Joana, “ she said, smiling. “Now you go and get Declan back into bed. It’s far too early for you all to be up.”
Joana looked like he might argue with his mother, but thought better of it. “Can we visit Arka now, mummy? It’s been a long time since we saw her.”
“We will,” said Sarine, opening the letter, “But not today. You need your sleep. Go back to bed.”
Joana pulled a face and made his way back towards the bedroom, but not before picking up a small piece of paper that had fallen on the floor. It was made of very old paper, and he thought to add it to his collection of curios.
Sarine read the letter again and frowned. Why was Arka in such a hurry? And what did she mean by ‘legacy’? Surely a legacy was something you left after you died? A feeling of panic started to well up inside her. Arka had gone and left her to do something important for her. And she could not understand what she was supposed to do.
She read the letter a third time and saw the words again, ‘Give him the scrap of paper I have enclosed here with this letter.’ What scrap of paper? Had Arka forgotten to enclose it? Maybe it had fallen out. Sarine took the candle from the wall and searched the floor on her knees. There was nothing to be seen.
She went back into the kitchen and sat on the bench. Smoothing the letter out on the table she read it again to be sure. There should be a scrap of paper. She had no idea what the strange symbol meant, although she guessed it might be the initial of someone’s name.
This was terrible! Why had Arka trusted her with this? She had failed at the first step. She couldn’t show the letter to anyone; Arka had made this clear. But she needed to find out what the symbol meant. She searched in the table drawer until she found a piece of paper. Taking a piece of charcoal from the fireplace, she copied the symbol as best she could. When it was light, she would ask the other students if they knew what it meant.
(http://img520.imageshack.us/img520/2998/eiwazvb5.jpg)
Sighing, she went back to baking the day’s first batch of bread.
[EDIT: Oops! I got Sarine's boys in the wrong order!]
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Hehe, was about to say Arka, Declan's only 3! Sarine would have been bowled over if she had seen him reading at all! Can't wait to read more though!
:love:
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This is gripping.. hurry up and write more... now.. now now... hehehe
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Well you'll be happy to know the story is nearly complete in draft, so once I have ironed out the inconsistencies I should be able to start posting more frequently. Maybe not every day, but at least four times a week.
Arka
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Arka, Arka ... how much do your friends not yet know about you?! :D
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You have such a talent for writing, Arka. Can't wait for the next chapter! \\o//
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Part 14 On the Road
Arka had no problems with the guard. It was Finara, and she knew her well. After many questions about the state of her health and warnings about ‘needing to take better care at our age’ Finara had waved her off down the Forest Road.
The Crystal was just lighting and threw hazy shadows onto the path. There was a chill in the air and a light mist hung over the treetops. Arka pulled her cloak around her and hurried on. She would walk three or four hours, then rest an hour, she thought. That way she would not tire herself too easily. Erelenga would no doubt deliver the Queen’s letter early today; that would put her mind at rest. Sarine would take her time deciphering the rune in the letter; that should delay her from taking the next step. Everything would be fine, she could take her time. The road ahead was empty, and there was little chance of her meeting anyone she knew. She was glad to be out in the open again, and it felt like a hunting trip. Arka almost forgot herself as she paced along the road, until a sharp twinge of pain made her wince and drove the air from her lungs, a prompt reminder of the real purpose of her journey. She pressed on, but at a slightly slower pace. She knew a good place to stop, just off the track, but it was a long way further on. She didn’t want to stop on the road, just in case.
Erelenga arrived at his office at the University at eight o’clock and immediately saw the letter on his desk. He smiled as he read it, pleased at Arka’s comments. So, she wanted him to call a convocation? It was true, the semester was about to start and it would be useful to get everyone together. He was a little irritated that she did not stay long enough to do this herself. But he could see to this.
He picked up the Queen’s letter. He’d better deal with this first, he thought. He would deliver it straight away. Putting his coat on against the morning mists, Erelenga slipped both letters in his pocket and set out towards the Royal Household.
Sarine’s bread was now stacked up in wicker baskets, ready for collection. It was a good batch, the yeast she had been cultivating had worked well and the new consignment from the miller had been top quality. She was gaining a good reputation as a baker, and deservedly so.
Now she could wake the boys. They had been good to go straight back to sleep. She woke Valiki first and asked him to get breakfast ready while she dressed Declan. Valiki went off to the kitchen, rubbing his eyes. He ladled some Tefusang milk into a saucepan and put it by the fire to warm. Then from the cupboard he took four oatmeal cakes and placed one each in bowls, setting them out on the table. When he got to his mother’s place, he saw the letter from Arka. He was curious, but knew it was impolite to read other people’s letters. His eye was drawn to the symbol Sarine had drawn in charcoal.
Just then his mother appeared and rescued the milk before it boiled over. “Valiki! Pay more attention!”
“Sorry mummy,” he replied, still fixated with the piece of paper. “Are you learning runes too?”
“Runes?”
Valiki held up the paper. “This one,” he said proudly, “Is Eiwas.”
“Eiwas?” She looked astounded.
“It stands for the letters E and I. Together.”
“How do you know this?” asked Sarine.
“Aunty Arka told me. She taught Joana and me the Stonebreaker’s alphabet: Feku, Uruz, Thurisaz, Ansuz…”
Sarine listed intently as Valiki continued in a sing-song voice, “Raido, Kanaz, Gebo Wunjo… Wunjo is for Valiki… Haglaz, Naudhiz, Isa, Jera – that’s for Joana…”
He continued through the whole alphabet until he reached the end, “Laguz, Ingwaz, Daguz – that’s D for Declan – Othala.”
He smiled as his mother patted him on the head, “Well done Valiki. You will be a student one day.”
“I am a student mummy, Arka says Joana and I are her youngest students. Can we visit her today? Please?”
“Arka has had to go away, dear. When she comes back, we will see her.”
Sarine poured the hot milk over the oatcakes and the boys joined her at the table. After saying thank you to Laanx for another day and their food, they attacked the meagre breakfast with their spoons.
So, the person in Arka’s letter was Ei…, Sarine thought. She was sure she didn’t know anyone whose name started with Ei. Maybe one of Arka's students. Who would know? Erelenga maybe. He was an important person at the University. What would she tell him though? She could not show him the letter. And he would be curious to know why she was asking. She would have to think of a convincing story.
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Gosh, I'm so hooked. :thumbup:
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hooked... me, I am already in the landing net!
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landing net? I'm in the frying pan! Go Valiki!!! *swells with pride*
Great stuff Arka! :love:
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Part 15 The Queen
Erelenga soon arrived at the High Royal House of Purrty. He knocked at the door and was let in by Melinya, the housekeeper.
“Mr. Erelenga! You’ve come at a difficult time, to be sure. The lady what was staying here. You know, the dwarven lady you brought here. Well. She’s only gone and disappeared! Her majesty’s in a right state I can tell you.”
“That’s why I’ve come; you see…”
But Melinya was now in full flood, “And that Xathia has gone and fallen out with the physick again. You see, she went and gave the dwarf some special potion without asking him. She said it was to wake her up, what with her being asleep for so long. But he’s worried in case it was too strong. He thinks she might collapse again, but Xathia says…”
“Please, Melinya! I have an important letter for her majesty from Arka.. err.. the dwarven lady herself. I need to give it to her.”
“Well! Why didn’t you say so? Standing here keeping me talking, when you have a letter for the Queen. What were you thinking of?”
Erelnega rolled his eyes and sighed as Melinya bustled him up the stairs. She knocked and opened the door. Lolitra looked up from a letter she was writing.
“Melinya?”
“There’s that young Mr. Erelenga to see you, your majesty,” said the housekeeper, bobbing a curtsey.
“Well show Mr. Ere.. Mr. Karal in, Melinya.”
Erelenga entered the room and bowed to the Queen. “Your majesty, I bring a letter from Arka Garam.”
He handed the sealed letter to her.
Lolitra smiled. “Sit down Erelenga, while I read it. You are not in a hurry?”
Erelenga briefly thought of the pile of papers waiting for him at the university, but shook his head. “Of course not, your majesty.”
Lolitra read the letter with a worried expression. “Oh dear,” she said “I am so worried about poor Arka. I fear she may have put herself at some considerable risk. And I do feel I am partly to blame.”
“I am sure she knows what she is doing, your majesty,” began Erelenga.
“Well that’s just it. Xathia, my herbalist tells me she has given her a most powerful mixture of potions, in an attempt to bring her out of the coma. Apparantly it worked. But we cannot be sure the effect was more than temporary. When it wears off, she may lapse back into unconsciousness. Have you any idea where she may have gone?”
“None. She must have left before I arrived at the university. Her cloak and walking boots were missing from the hallway.”
“Then she must intend to travel. I have sent some of my people to ask after her. Hopefully we will have news before long.”
“Is there anything I can do?”
“No, Erelenga. Your duty is to the university. If I hear anything I will send word with Sir Gag.”
“If you are sure…?”
Lolitra nodded. Erelenga rose to his feet, bowed and backed out of the room. He almost collided with Melinya, who had been clearly listening at the door.
“Oooh look at the dust here,” she said, suddenly running her finger along the balustrade. “Wait until I see the maid. She will get a real piece of my mind. Good meeting?”
Erelenga smiled at the pretence. “Very good thank you. But I must be getting back to the university.”
“Are you sure you wouldn’t like a warm drink and a piece of cake? You do look a little peaky.”
Erelenga recognised the ploy. “That’s very kind of you, but I have a lot of business to attend to.” He nodded to Melinya and made his way downstairs.
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My Friend Arka,
I am so worried for you. Your writing is so real that it truly makes me think it is happening and it is not just a story . That is a sign of a great writer and you are that. Keep it coming. I cannot wait to read what will happen next.
Best Wishes,
Leama.
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Excellent!! :sorcerer:
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Part 16. A mystery solved
Sarine made her way to the Faculty of Stalactite Studies and knocked at the door of the Dean’s Office, quietly at first, but more boldly when there was no reply. Eventually, to make sure, she pushed the door open and peered inside. The room was empty.
“Ah well,” she said to herself, “I shall have to come back later.”
Her eye was drawn to a large tome on the Dean’s desk. Embossed on the cover in gold letters were the words, ‘Directory of Students’. Feeling more than a little nervous, she walked up to the desk and turned the pages of the book. The students were listed by subject.
She turned to the section labelled ‘Languages and Culture’. Halfway down the second page was a heading ‘Stonebreaker’. Sarine gave a little gasp. The first name on the list was Einnol Feldorm! She had surely found her ‘Ei’.
She gave the rest of the section a brief glance, just in case there were any other names beginning with ‘Ei’, but Einnol’s was the only one. She took a piece of paper from the desk top and dipped a quill into the inkwell. In her best handwriting she copied the name, returned the pen, folded the paper and put it into her pocket. Now she just had to find him.
••••
Arka had reached her planned resting point in good time, although she felt much more tired than she had imagined she would. She had settled herself into a hollow, just off the path, and promptly fell asleep.
She was woken suddenly by the sound of a twig snapping close by. She pressed herself deeper into the ground and held her breath. Although barely perceptible, she could make out the sound of light footsteps passing by. Was she being followed? She had not seen anyone on the road. Eventually, the footsteps faded into the distance, and she could breathe easily again.
If she was being followed, she knew that whoever it was would double back as soon as it became clear her tracks had disappeared. She decided to continue her journey across country. It would be slower, but safer. She re-packed her knapsack and set off, taking care to cover her tracks as she went. After a decent distance, she struck out again. It was harder going over the rough ground, and her bags weighed her down, but she gritted her teeth and pressed on. This way there would be a few steep climbs, but it would be better than being found and taken back to Hydlaa. There was a small lake further along this way, where she could stop for something to eat. But for now she just needed to keep going.
••••
Lolitra had got word back that Arka had left Hydlaa by the North Gate and had immediately dispatched two of her most able rangers, Parryen and Ffallma, to track her. The two Menkis had set off at a brisk run. They picked up her trail easily and quickly reached the point where she had stopped.
The first, a dark coloured older Enkiduki, left the road a few yards, then knelt down. “See here,” he said, “the undergrowth has been flattened here. It looks like she was hiding.”
“It’s a good place to hide. Completely invisible from the road,” agreed his companion, a younger enkiduki, with pure white fur, “But someone seems to have found this spot before us.” He pointed to a smaller print in the mud. “An elf. Dermorian, possibly. And there is something odd about these prints.” He pointed to a trail of small indentations in the ground.
Parryen stood up and walked across to take a closer look. “Looks like he’s limping.”
The white menki nodded. “I saw some marks like that on the road. Let’s go take another look.”
The two made their way back onto the pathway, taking care not to obscure the footprints they had found.
“Here,” said Ffallma, “These are the same. It looks like he went straight past then doubled back. See? They go in both directions.”
Parryen had to agree. “So he was tracking her? When he lost her tracks he came back here and found where she had been hiding, just as we did.” He looked thoughtful. “But then what? There is no more sign of the dwarf, but he heads out across country.”
“We could follow his tracks,” suggested Ffallma.
“The Queen said we were to track the dwarf. From here, she could have gone in any direction. She’s made a good job of covering her traces. If we couldn’t find her, I don’t suppose this dermorian could. He missed where she turned off the road for a start. It’s unlikely that he’s picked up on her tracks again, unless he knew where she was going.”
“Then why would he track her?”
“Exactly. Let’s go back – I think we should tell the Queen what we know and let her decide.”
The two menkis headed back to Hydlaa, satisfied that they could make no further progress.
-
AAAAH! :o Arka! Look behind you!! Noooo! :'(
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Part 17: Curiosity
Sarine had finished baking for the day. There were 6 trays of pies cooling on the racks and a delicious aroma of meat and piecrust filled the air. She opened the windows, partly to help the pies cool, but mainly because it was good for trade. People passing were drawn into her shop by the smell.
Sarine was waiting for the shop to close, so she could find her friend and fellow sudent, Aerianna, and ask her about Einnol. Time went so slowly, even though she had many customers. Eventually, it was noon and time to stop for lunch. She called the boys inside from their play and set out the table. She took Joana aside while Valiki and Declan were washing their hands.
“Joana, I want you to be good for me and give your brothers their lunch. There’s a good meat pie left with plenty for all of you. I need to go on an errand. If I am not back by teatime, make some sandwiches – there is some cheese in the pantry.”
Joana nodded, and Sarine pulled on her shawl and stepped out into the street.
She knew she would find Aerianna by the Blacksmith’s in the plaza. Sarine didn’t like that part of town. Harnquist was a bit gruff and she’d heard he was rather too fond of the ale. But the other students seemed to use his shop as a meeting place.
Sure enough, Aerianna was there, along with Rell Farrigan and Andoryn Thaakor, a trainee mage. Sarine was always a bit wary of Andoryn, who liked to show off her magical skills. That sort of thing was downright scary.
She waved to Aerianna, who walked across the Plaza to meet her.
“Sarine! Are you coming to join us?”
“Not today, Aerianna. I have such a lot to do. I wondered if you could help me though.”
“If I can I will,” Aerianna replied, with a smile.
Sarine gave her the piece of paper with Einnol’s name.
“I need to find this person,” she began, “I… err… have an order for him but I’ve lost his address.”
“I can do better than that. He’s working here at the forge.”
Sarine blushed. How was she going to get Einnol away from the other students? She was beginning to regret having told Aerianna a lie.
She followed Aerianna to the forge, where a middle-aged Stonebreaker was pouring molten metal into a mould. Great clouds of foul-smelling steam rose up as the hissing metal cooled in its casting. Sarine wrinkled her nose. She was glad she was a baker and not a smith.
“Einnol, there is someone to see you,” began Aerianna.
The dwarf put down the crucible and wiped the sweat off his brow with the back of his glove, leaving a black smudge.
“Dovoy’. It is Sarine, is it not? How is business?”
“Sarine recognised him as one of her customers, and was relieved.”
“Mr. Feldorm,” she said nervously, “I… err I need to talk with you privately.”
Aerianna’s ears pricked up.
“Of course,” said Einnol, pulling off his gloves, “But ye can call me Einnol. Let us go over to the fountain. You can talk to me on the way.
They set of across the plaza together, while Aerianna hurried back to Andoryn and Rell.
“Well?” asked Andoryn.
“It didn’t sound like an order for pies.” Said Aerianna, “She was awfully nervous. I wonder if she has designs on him.”
“Don’t be ridiculous. Einnol is happily married.”
“Yes, but she doesn’t know that. Or maybe she does.”
Andoryn’s eyes widened and Aerianna giggled.
“Look,” said Andoryn, “They are heading for the university now.”
“Or her house,” said Aerianna.
Rell rolled his eyes. “You two have more imagination than sense.”
“He called her by her first name, Rell. He’s one of her customers. And Sarine is an attractive woman, err… for a dwarf.”
“Don’t let Arka ever hear you talking like that.” Rell’s voice was stern. “And if I were you I wouldn’t go spreading rumours about Einnol. He is highly respected.”
Andoryn smiled at Rell. “Don’t worry, it’s only a bit of fun. But I would like to know what they are up to. Let’s follow them.”
“No.” said Rell, but Aerianna and Andoryn were already halfway down the steps.
He decided he should follow, if only to keep an eye on the two women.
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Part 18: More clues
Sarine welcomed Einnol into her home, a little self-consciously. If she had known that her fellow students had witnessed this, she would have been mortified. She had shown him the letter in the plaza, and he immediately asked about the scrap of paper. Sarine suggested that Arka had probably forgotten it, but Einnol had insisted on coming to her house to search for it. She was a bit taken aback by this, but had agreed.
Andoryn and Aerianna were intrigued. Sarine had taken Einnol straight to her home.
“What’s going on, d’ye think?” asked Andoryn.
Aerianna shrugged.
“I saw her show him something at the forge. Looked like a letter.”
“Who would write to Sarine? And what has it to do with Einnol?” asked Aerianna.
“Well, whatever it is, it isn’t our business,” said Rell, shifting uncomfortably.
“Oh come on, Rell, aren’t you the least bit curious?” Andoryn mocked him.
“Well I’m staying until they come out,” said Aerianna, “I want to know what’s going on.” She looked at Rell. “Look, I’m not saying there is anything going on – I just think it’s strange.”
Rell frowned.
“It’s like you say, Rell, Einnol is happily married – I honestly don’t think… Let’s just see what happens,” she continued.
“Well you two girls can stay if you want. I’m going to the library.”
Rell turned to go, but Andoryn took his hand. “I’ll come too,” she said, “but I am curious too. Aerianna, if you are staying, come and tell us what happens.”
Rell rolled his eyes but said nothing.
“Of course I will. You two run along.”
Aerianna watch the two head off towards the University. She was a bit disappointed that Andoryn wouldn’t stay, but understood. She looked around for a comfortable place to sit, where she wouldn’t be seen. She was genuinely interested in what Einnol was doing with Sarine. He hardly knew her. And it wasn’t like Sarine to invite a stranger into her home. What was in that letter? And why had Einnol hurried off with hardly a word? He’d even left his iron stock in the castings. She settled down and waited…
*****
The boys were playing a noisy game of tag as Sarine opened the door, but soon quietened when they saw Einnol. Declan and Joana ran off to their room, but Valiki stayed in the hallway.
“Hello,” he said, “I’m Valiki”
“And I am Einnol,” said Einnol, smiling.
“Eiwas”
“I’m sorry?” Einnol looked puzzled.
“Eiwas. Your name starts with ‘Eiwas’.”
“So it does,” said Einnol, surprised. “And your name begins with ‘Wunjo.”
Valiki beamed. “See, mummy?” He looked at Einnol. “Did Aunty Arka teach you that?”
Einnol chuckled, “Aye, she did! That and a whole lot more.”
Sarine stroked her son’s hair. “Mr. Feldorm and I have some business to discuss. You run along and keep an eye on Declan.”
Valiki nodded and ran off.
“He is a good boy,” said Einnol.
“He is,” agreed Sarine, “and very curious. Both the twins are interested in everything these days. You should see the things they collect.”
“I was very much the same at his age,” said Einnol.
Sarine opened the door to the kitchen. “We can talk in here,” she said, gesturing towards the table.
Einnol took a seat. “Let me see that letter again.”
Sarine took out the parchment and spread it on the table. Einnol looked at it closely.
“’Tis very good parchment,” he said at length, “Why would Arka use this just for a letter?”
Sarine shrugged.
“I noticed she used the word ‘legacy’,” she said, “that frightened me. I thought she meant she was going to die at first.”
Einnol frowned. “So she might as well use up her best parchment,” he thought, although he said nothing.
Sarine jumped up. “I’ll just go check on the boys.” She left Einnol re-reading the letter.
A few moments later Einnol became aware that someone was watching him intently. He looked up to see a pair of sharp eyes peering from beneath an untidy fringe.
Valiki looked at him expectantly. “Mr. Einnol, what does Aunty Arka say in her letter?”
Einnol smiled. “She has a job for me to do. Trouble is, I don’t know where to start.”
“Doesn’t she tell you?”
“Not exactly. She has left me with a kind of puzzle.”
“I like puzzles. Tell me what it says.”
Einnol looked at the young dwarf. How wonderful to be that curious! He could see no harm sharing some of the letter with him.
“Well, it seems Aunty Arka wanted me to have a piece of paper. But your mother couldn’t find it. ‘Twas supposed to be in the letter.”
Valiki’s eyes widened. “My brother’s got a piece of paper.”
“Yes,” replied Einnol kindly, ”but ‘tis a special piece of paper I need. Not just any piece of paper.”
“Is it from an old book?”
Einnol’s mouth dropped open. He was remembering a time, a long time ago when Arka had given him a small piece of paper. It was a time he had tried to forget.
“I’ll get it,” said Valiki, before Einnol could speak, and ran off towards his room.
Einnol’s mind raced. “He will know where to look…” If this was the same piece of paper, then… But how could Valiki’s brother have it? Maybe it dropped out of the letter, maybe Sarine hadn’t noticed. The book had been destroyed, so how could the scrap of paper have survived?
Sarine broke his train of thought. “Can I get you a drink, Mr Feldorm? I’m afraid I’ve no ale, but I have some very good apple juice.”
Einnol smiled but shook his head.
“This piece of paper…”
“It’s like I said, Arka probably forgot it. There was no piece of paper in the letter.”
“Could it have fallen out?”
“I looked everywhere. It wasn’t on the floor”
“Could it have fallen somewhere unseen?”
“Not in the hallway. There was nowhere it could have done.”
“I wonder…” said Einnol, thoughtfully.
Just then Valiki came skipping into the room, with a small box under his arm.
“Valiki! Not now, dear,” said his mother kindly, but firmly, ”Mr. Feldorm and I need to talk.”
“But… I want to show him something.”
“Later, dear…” began Sarine, but Einnol held up a hand. “I think this might be important.”
He looked at Valiki. “D’ye have it?”
Valiki looked nervously at his mother and nodded. He opened the box and took out the scrap of paper his brother had found earlier. He held it out, and Einnol took it, his hand trembling. He stared at the paper in disbelief.
“What is it?” asked Sarine, alarmed at the sudden change in him.
When Einnol managed to speak, his voice seemed smaller and somehow far away. “’Tis a long story, Sarine, a very long story. And one I would rather not tell again, if ye don’t mind.”
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I sit with cup in hand and read these with a verve that is captivating - you are wonderful Arka.
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Arka,
I second what Lolitra said. Simply riveting. I cannot wait for more. You are a great writer!
Leama
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Part 19: The Library
Aerianna had almost given up when Sarine’s front door opened. She jumped up and hid in the shadow of a doorway as Sarine and Einnol emerged from the house. They hurried off towards the university, with Aerianna following at a safe distance. She felt a little awkward, but her curiosity was overwhelming.
“Where are we going?” asked Sarine.
“The Library”
“But isn’t it the other way?”
“Nay,” said Einnol, “not Jayose’s Library. The University Library. The Library of Magicks and Potions.”
“But that’s locked. We won’t be able to get in there.”
This stopped Einnol in his tracks. He’d forgotten that Arka had arranged for the Library to be sealed with a strong spell after that night.
“Would ye know anyone who has access?”
“Only Andoryn. She is studying Magick,” replied Sarine, “but she won’t let anyone in. It’s against the rules.”
“We shall have to tell her.”
“No! Arka said we mustn’t show anyone the letter.”
“She did not say anything about not reading it out,” said Einnol, his eyes twinkling.
Sarine pondered this. It didn’t seem right, but she couldn’t argue with him.
They arrived at the University Library as Rell and Andoryn were leaving. Andoryn needed very little persuasion to open the door for them, and without Einnol having to share Arka’s letter with her, much to Sarine’s amazement.
Einnol walked to the far end of the long room, lost in memory. This was the second time he had been here. The last time was in dead of night. Then, he had known what he was looking for. This time, he was less certain. Light streamed through high stained glass windows, making pools of coloured light on the book stacks and floor.
Aerianna arrived, red-faced and out of breath. Andoryn signalled her to be quiet. Einnol had told her that Arka had asked him to retrieve something from the library, although he wouldn’t tell her what it was. She was watching him closely and didn’t want to miss anything.
Einnol looked at the rows of leather bound books in dismay. Where was he supposed to look? “He will know…” said the letter. How could Arka be so certain?
He went to the shelf from which he had taken the book, so long ago. He was surprised that he remembered it. He ran his eyes along the shelf and soon found the space where a missing volume once had sat. He felt a pang of guilt. Because of him, the Library had lost a valuable book. He was told he had torn out a page. The thought of it left him feeling deeply ashamed. And now Arka had destroyed the book. What was it she had said about the missing page? Something about the other side?
He shook his head. No good dwelling on the past. He had to think about what Arka had sent him to find. He stood on tip toe and reached into the empty space between the books. At first he could find nothing, but then a stubby finger brushed against a hard, cold object. He slid it out towards the edge of the shelf, dropping it into his upturned palm.
It was a small, silver key, well crafted, but unadorned. He’d never seen it before. What would it open? He was suddenly aware of the small crowd at the library door. He should keep quiet about this, he decided. He made a little pretence of searching, pulling out odd books and peering behind the shelves, before making his way back.
“Well?” asked Andoryn.
“I did not find anything,” he lied, hoping she wouldn’t notice, “but I thank ye for helping me.”
“My pleasure,” said Andoryn, smiling, “if you need to get back in, just ask.”
“Garamdor,” replied Einnol, “I think I should be going now. This place is a bit creepy.”
Andoryn smiled, “That’s the energy stored in the books,” she said. “It creates a field around the library. It can make your hair stand on end.”
Einnol grunted. He wanted nothing more to do with magic. He’d tried it once and look where that got him… No, he would not be returning to this library again.
He and Sarine walked quickly back towards her house, leaving the others looking confused.
“What was that about?” asked Aerianna.
“Search me,” said Andoryn, “but I do know something. Whatever Einnol might have said, he definitely found something up there.”
Aerianna’s eyes widened. “So why did he lie to us?”
“I don’t know. It’s not like Einnol to lie. There is something going on, Aerianna. We have to find out what it’s about.”
-
/me chuckles and grins.
The smallest of things can sometimes create the greatest of problems.
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/me chuckles and grins.
The smallest of things can sometimes create the greatest of problems.
If if it's the small thing I'm thinking of, then you have read the story well!
(Actually there are no end of small things creating all sorts of problems for me writing this!)
/me sharpens a new pen and starts on the next set of revisions
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Ah! Damn my compulsion to read old discussions on the Knowledge Seeker forums. I went and spoilt part of the story!
Can't wait till the next chapter ;)
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Part 20: The dermorian
Lolitra had waited all morning for her rangers to return. Since she had seen Erelenga she had become more and more concerned about Arka’s safety. Another of her men had seen a stranger leave the University earlier, a dermorian, with a pronounced limp. He’d followed him across the plaza but lost him in a crowd by the steps. He couldn’t be sure if he had been heading towards the tavern or the tower.
That could wait. The main concern right now was Arka. Lolitra was deeply concerned about the physick’s report. He had said that without attention, Arka could die. She felt totally powerless and it frustrated her.
A gentle knock sounded at the door, and Melinya ushered the two menkis inside. They bowed deeply.
“What news?” asked the queen.
Parryen straightened up and began, “We tracked her through the forest, your majesty, but then her footprints disappeared. We think she was being followed.”
“Followed?” Lolitra’s brow furled.
Ffallma joined in, “A dermorian, your majesty. With a limp.”
“A limp, you say? How do you know?”
“The shape of the footprints were quite distinctive. He definitely had a limp.”
“He?”
Ffallma looked at his companion quizzically, “We assumed so...”
Parryen smiled. He had thought Ffallma had spotted the signs, but evidently he had not. He intervened, before Ffalma could embarrass himself. “It is more than likely that this was a male, your majesty.”
“Really?” Lolitra raised an eyebrow. “Do tell me how.”
“There were a number of signs, your majesty. Normally we would be able to tell by the weight of the tread. But this is not so easy with dermorians. Both the male and female tread lightly.”
Lolitra nodded, and did not fail to notice that Ffallma was hanging on Parryen’s every word.
“Two things were apparent. Firstly, the stride is slightly longer; even with a limp, this was noticeable. More importantly is the alignment. The male’s narrower hips mean that the footprints are closer to the centre line. It’s a subtle distinction, but important. Difficult to spot, but Ffallma did well.”
Ffallma looked surprised for a brief moment then realised what Parryen was thinking. So did Lolitra, but she said nothing. She was impressed. Not just with Parryen’s skill, but also his generosity. But if Parryen was right….
Lolitra’s eyes narrowed. A dermorian with a limp. This was too much to be a coincidence. He must have set out just after he left the university this morning. And there was a connection with Arka, an old story she had heard. But that dermorian had been killed, either executed or in an accident. She searched her memory for a name, but none came.
“You have done well,” Lolitra smiled, “But I have one further task for you.”
“Your majesty?”
“You will take me to the point you lost her. I want to see it for myself.”
“The trail will be cold now.”
Lolitra looked at the ranger and he lowered his eyes. “Of course, your majesty.”
Lolitra donned her cape and boots and the three set off across Hydlaa towards the northern gates.
-
Arka,
I really feel totally part of this story. I love how you bring me in and make me feel like I am there. I now understand how describing the setting is so important and you do it so well. I must say I do not want you to die.
Leama hugs Arka.
-
Oh Leama - you have captured Lolitra so well... congratulations.... and even more praise for such a wonderfully tantilising story.
-
Part 21: The cave
Arka’s journey was taking much longer than she had allowed. The day had passed and she was still much less than half way to her destination. It was so slow walking across rough ground and now it had started to rain. By sheer luck, she found a shallow cave in which to shelter and decided she should try to get some sleep. There was barely enough room here to sit up, but it was dry and out of the wind.
She prepared a makeshift bed with her cloak and folded a shirt for a pillow. Her bones ached and her head was starting to throb. She took a sip of water and started to chew on a piece of dried meat. Since she had left the road, she had been more attentive, expecting to hear footsteps behind her. Although she had heard nothing, she still had the sense that someone was watching her. Here in the cave she would be safe, she thought. It was well away from the path, and completely hidden from view. But just to make sure, she uprooted a couple of small bushes to hide the entrance, before settling down to sleep.
Outside, the rain lashed down over the barren landscape. Heavy clouds rumbled overhead and the sky turned black. A sudden flash of lightning split the sky and illuminated a single figure on the ridge above the cave. A dermorian, wrapped in a heavy cloak was limping along the hilltop, looking for a place to shelter. And Arka was already fast asleep and dreaming again.
*****
Einnol and Sarine walked back to her house in silence. The visit to the library had affected Einnol deeply; more deeply than he had imagined. He was struggling with a mix of emotions; concern for Arka – a deep concern bordering on despair, that he was only just managing to hide from Sarine; anger, partly at himself and partly at Arka for putting him through the ordeal of the library; and anticipation at the thought of solving the puzzles in the letter.
They soon arrived at Sarine’s door. Only then, Einnol spoke, “We need to look at the letter again. Would ye mind?”
Sarine shook her head and ushered him inside. She was confused. Einnol had said he had found nothing, but he seemed in a hurry to get back to her house. His silence had worried her.
They sat again at the kitchen table and Sarine smoothed out the letter in front of him. Einnol fished the key out of a voluminous pocket and set it down on top of the parchment. Sarine’s eye’s widened. “So you found it?”
Einnol nodded. “Now we just need to find whatever it fits.”
He read the letter aloud. “What does Arka mean by ‘take him to a place I once took you’?”
Sarine shook her head. “I have been thinking about that. Arka took me to lots of places. I can’t think where she means.”
“What about the ‘two planes’? Would ye know what she means by that?”
Sarine shook her head sadly. “I really have no idea.”
“Could it be somewhere in the university? Did she take ye to her rooms there?”
“Well, yes, but there were lots of other places besides. It could be almost anywhere.”
Einnol considered this. “I jus’ wonder if we should check her rooms. There might be more clues there.”
Sarine looked aghast. “I don’t think we should. It’s not right.”
Einnol scratched his beard. He knew he would have to confront the facts sooner or later. It might as well be sooner. He looked at Sarine, wondering how to say this. Best tell it straight, he thought, dwarf to dwarf.
“I have to speak me mind, Sarine. Ye should know me thoughts on this.”
Sarine looked into his eyes, and Einnol fancied he saw a glimmer of recognition. Maybe she had reached the same conclusion.
“I fear that Arka is in grave danger. Maybe even mortal danger. We have to find her, and quickly. My guess is that whatever she intends us to find, she has with her.”
Sarine looked horrified, and Einnol wondered if he had misjudged her. He continued, “If ye cannot remember where she took ye, then we must look for other clues as to her whereabouts. I know, under normal circumstances that we would be wrong to look in her rooms, but I think these are not normal circumstances, if ye take me meaning.”
Sarine thought about this and to his surprise she didn’t argue with him.
“I won’t come with you.”
“I understand,” replied Einnol, “I will go now. If I find anything I will come back and tell you. Otherwise, I shall return tomorrow and see if you have come up with anything. We must find her Sarine; look at the letter. She says herself, ‘there is so little time left.’ You must remember.”
“I will try,” said Sarine. I know Arka is dying. I felt it before I even opened the letter.”
“Aye, I know you will,” replied Einnol, “And I shall be back.”
With that, he got to his feet and Sarine followed him to the door.
She watched him walk off towards the university with a mixture of apprehension and relief. She was glad Arka had chosen him to find her. It would have been impossible for her to do this alone. He seemed so confident. But she was also angry with herself for not being able to remember the place Arka had mentioned in her letter.
****
Lolitra had reached the point in the road where Arka had stopped. She saw for herself the hollow where she had rested. Although the dermorian’s footprints had been obliterated on the road, she soon found his tracks in the mud.
“So, he headed off across country?”
Parryen nodded. “We didn’t follow him, your majesty. We thought we should report back to you first.”
“You did the right thing,” replied Lolitra, “Of course, we have no way of knowing whether his tracks will take us to Arka. And you have no idea which direction she was headed in?”
“None, your majesty. From here, she could have gone off in any direction. These parts are criss-crossed with old tracks. I would guess that Arka was familiar with the land here – Finara told us she frequently hunted in these hills.”
Lolitra thought about this. Her instincts were to carry on looking, in the hope that she would pick up Arka’s tracks somehow. But her head told her this was hopeless. The trail would have gone cold by now, and Arka could be many miles from here. No, there must be another way of finding her. She would return to Hydlaa. Maybe her rooms at the university would yield some clues. She would talk with Erelenga; he was in charge of the University now.
-
Part 22: A creaky stair
Einnol checked that no-one was watching as he slipped back into the university. Passing through the hallway, he turned left and through a narrow doorway. This was the quickest way up to the rooms occupied by the permanent staff, including Arka’s study and living quarters. He started to climb the stairs slowly and quietly, but the old boards creaked under every step. Shrugging, he climbed the rest of the stairs noisily and pushed Arka’s door open.
The room was very much as Einnol had seen it the last time he had seen Arka. Under the window was a huge writing-desk, cut down to dwarf size. Her bed was in the corner opposite the door. On it was an assortment of clothes and other objects. Einnol wondered if she had packed in a hurry.
He noticed the axes were missing from above the fireplace and smiled. At least she was taking care of herself. After a cursory glance round the rest of the room, Einnol walked over to the desk. At first sight, there was nothing particularly noticeable. The drawers held the usual assortment of writing paraphernalia; sealing wax, string, pieces of paper and a pen knife for sharpening quills.
He really had no idea what he was looking for. Then a crumpled piece of paper on the floor caught his eye. He got down on his knees to look more closely and was surprised to see a scattering of quill shavings and loose crumbs of red wax around Arka’s paper bin. The paper yielded nothing of any interest; it was an old shopping list. But it looked very much to Einnol that the bin had been tipped up, as if someone was searching for something. Someone had been here before him! Someone else who was interested in Arka’s disappearance. He hoped it was a friend.
Einnol scanned the rest of the floor in case Arka had dropped anything, but it was clear. There were no clues here about her destination, only that she had packed clothes for her journey and taken axes. So, it was at least a day’s trip away, especially if she intended not to return, and across country, hence the axes. Maybe that would jog Sarine’s memory. Sighing, he started to walk towards the door, when he heard the stair creak. Someone was coming! He looked around in a panic before secreting himself inside the chest at the end of Arka’s bed. He just managed to squeeze himself in, lowering the lid as the door opened.
****
Arka awoke with a start. The rain had stopped but it was pitch black outside. She had slept the whole evening! As usual, her dreams had been filled with the horror of Sudisir’s fall from the tower. She wondered why she always dreamt the scene as though she had let him fall. She couldn’t have saved him; it was his own spell that had rebounded and knocked him off his feet. So why did she feel so guilty?
She remembered their last encounter. Sudisir had challenged her view of the Rodfrakkert, the time when her people, who would become the Stonebreakers, split from the Pekdverm, and began their journey deeper underground, that would lead them eventually to the Stone Labyrinths and eventually to Yliakum. History had brought them together, and history had destroyed Sudisir. And now she had a job to do. She had to make sure that the history of her people survived. She opened her satchel to make sure the package was still in place.
She had to get back on the track. She knew the countryside well enough to travel overnight, but at night, she would make even slower progress than before. At least the darkness would conceal her. Arka changed into fresh clothes, loaded herself with her belongings and tied the axes to her belt. She felt they had grown in weight while she slept, and thought again about leaving them behind, but once again, her pride made her bear them. Parting the bushes in the opening of the cave to check the way was clear, she set out again on what she hoped would be the last part of her journey.
****
Sarine waited for Einnol to return until well after dark. She sighed and closed the shutters. Maybe he would be round in the morning. She felt so bad that she had not been able to remember the place Arka had taken her. She really had no idea what Arka meant by ‘two planes’. Einnol had confirmed her fears, that Arka was dying, and now she was the only one who could help her. She had to remember.
She checked on her sleeping children before tucking herself up in bed. Before she blew out the candle, she read Arka’s letter again, in the hope that she would have a sudden realisation, but none came. Maybe things would be clearer in the morning.
-
I love your writing, Arka. I'm hooked! Quick, post the next chapter! :D
Suvok
-
Arka,
It is like reading a book and you get to the end, find out there is a sequel and have to wait until the library gets it in; there is that suspense of waiting and the thrill of being able to read each and every new chapter. In your case I cannot wait for the next installment. Simply extraordinary, please post more!
Leama.
-
[Author's note: Another dream sequence, based on an IG roleplay, in case you might be wondering about the change in style :) Arka]
23 The Old Forge
Sarine drifted into a vivid dream. She was walking along a path with Arka and Aerianna. They had come a long way and Sarine was getting tired.
Arka stopped to help her, “We are nearly there. Prepare yourself for a surprise.” They rounded the corner and a breathtaking view met their eyes.
“There!” said Arka
Sarine was speechless. She had never seen such an amazing sight.
“Isn't it magnificent?” asked Arka
“It's brilliant Arka, so beautiful.”
“Built by our ancestors.”
“Really?”
“Really. Let me show you where I grew up.” Arka led the way down a steep path towards the bottom of the cliffs, with Aerianna and Sarine following. Arka and Aerianna strode on ahead and Sarine, weary from the long journey, soon fell behind.
She arrived to find Arka standing on a rock, talking with an Ylian. She recognised him as Odisseo and walked up to them, panting.
Aerianna greeted her, smiling.
“There she is!” she heard Odisseo saying. She looked up to see him smiling down at her.
“Arka, I almost lost you!”
Arka was relieved to see her. “I’m sorry – I was in a rush to get here, I didn’t notice you fall behind.”
Sarine breathed a sigh of relief. “I got scared there!”
“Hello Sarine, nice to see you again,” said the Ylian.
Arka looked surprised. “Ah! you know one another?”
“I believe we saw each other, briefly,” explained the Ylian.
“This is Sarine's first trip out here,” said Arka
“There is much to do here,” Odisseo replied, “by chance, does one of you need carrot juice?"
“I have some with me,” said Arka, “But thank you all the same”
“You come prepared, Arka.”
“I've never had it before,” said Sarine, “Is it nice?”
“Maybe Sarine would like some?” asked Arka.
Odisseo reached into his bag, “Sarine, you are in good hands! Ah, yes, it does wonders, carrot juice that!"
Aerianna sat down on the grass as Odisseo fished out a small green bottle and handed it to the dwarf. “Take good care of this bottle, protect it from the Azure sun."
Sarine nodded. “I will, thank you"
Aerianna curled herself up in a corner and closed her eyes.
“Thank you Odisseo,” said Arka, bowing, “Garido'”
“You are welcome Arka, Sarine. Have fun Knowledge Seekers." So saying, Odisseo took his leave with a smile, Arka and Sarine waving.
Sarine repeated, “Garido',” and smiled.
“Well that was a stroke of luck!” said Arka, “Let's go to the Fortress first.”
They looked at Aerianna, fast asleep, curled into a ball. It seemed a pity to wake her, so they left her sleeping. "She will be safe enough here," said Arka, "We will come back to collect her before we move on."
Just off the path, Arka stopped by a ruined building. It had only two walls standing, forming a corner. It seemed to have been well built, with thick stonework and a paved floor.
“This was the forge my father built,” explained Arka, “Would you mind if we spent a little time here?”
Sarine shook her head. “Not at all”
“This is all that is left now.”
Sarine looked at a small mound of grass with a small stone set upright at one end. “What happened to it?”
“Ulbernauts.”
Sarine’s eyes widened. “I've heard about them. Only bits and pieces… But I've heard they're nasty critters.”
Arka smiled. “They were goaded into it. Normally they wouldn't attack.”
Sarine studied the stone work, wondering how a creature could cause such damage.
Arka continued, her eyes looking into the distance. “It was an elf… Name of Sudisir.”
“It must have taken quite a bit to break it down,” said Sarine, “They must have been really angry.”
Arka seemed not to have heard her. She went on, still staring into nothing, “He wanted to destroy our culture.”
“Why would he do that?" Sarine asked, frowning.
Arka looked at her. “Because of the Pekdverm - the Petty Dwarfs… It's a long story. When he told me I could understand. But I cannot forgive him." She choked back a tear.
Sarine nodded and put a hand on Arka’s shoulder. "Of course not. I hope I'll learn all about our history in time."
“The Petty Dwarfs lived on the surface," explained Arka, “before the Great Divide - what we call the Rodfrakkert. Their king killed Sudisir's father. That was over a thousand years ago. But Sudisir has a long memory.” Arka shuddered.
Sarine thought about this. “Well,” she said, “I don't know much about wars and fighting, but I know you can't judge an entire culture based on one dwarf's actions."
Arka frowned, “I hope I don't meet him again. Every time I see a dermorian I wonder if it is him. He is Oskaralfr - a dark elf - they are very similar,” she explained, “The dark elves drove our ancestors underground. That's how we came to be here. And now we can't find our way back…” Her face suddenly brightened. “But we didn't come here to dwell on the past! Let me show you the fortress.”
Sarine smiled. "It's good to hear of such things. I want to know of them…”
Arka walked over to the grassy mound to check that her parents' headstone was still intact.
“… and if it's any consolation, these ruins are beautiful."
“ It was beautiful…once. Good fishing in the lake. An ideal spot for a forge.”
“Yes, I agree"
Arka sighed. “Let's press on eh?”
“Perhaps one day we can rebuild it all,” said Sarine.
“I hope so. It would be good to have our own village again.”
“Indeed,” agreed Sarine, and the two set off back up the path to wake Aerianna..
Sarine woke suddenly. It was still dark. She knew now where she could find Arka. But first she needed to find Einnol.
-
Part 24: Caught
Einnol had remained hidden for what seemed like an age. It was getting unbearably hot in the chest and he was finding it hard to keep still. He hoped whoever it was would find what they were looking for and leave. But then he heard muffled footsteps approaching. Einnol grabbed hold of a ridge on the inside of the lid, holding the lid shut by his fingertips. He felt the ridge press against his fingers, and the lid opened a fraction. Einnol tried to hold it shut, but his fingers slipped and it suddenly flew open. The menki fell backwards, landing heavily on his backside with a yowl.
Quick as a flash, Einnol leaped out of the chest and ran down the stairs, looking over his shoulder to see how much of a start he had. He hit something soft.
“Oof!” said the second menki, doubling over, but managed to get a claw into his breeches, Einnol felt the fabric rip as he struggled to free himself.
He got his feet, but the menki was fast. Grabbing Einnol from behind, he twisted his arm up his back.
Einnol winced. “All right, I will come quietly –nay need to break me arm.”
The menki relaxed his grip a little, but Einnol was still bent almost double. He saw a pair of fine shoes appear. Looking up, he saw that the owner of the shoes was wearing a beautifully embroidered satin dress.
“Let’s see who we have here,” said a commanding voice.
The menki pulled Einnol up by the shoulder.
“Einnol Feldorm!” said the voice, softening. It was Lolitra.
“What are you doing here?” said Einnol and Lolitra together.
“I think we need a little chat,” said Lolitra, “You can let him go, Parryen”
The menki let go of Einnol and he rubbed his aching arm.
“I do apologise, Mr. Feldorm,” Lolitra said kindly, “If I had known it was you…”
“There is no need, really,” said Einnol, embarrassed. He was wondering how much he could confide in Lolitra.
“I take it you found no clues as to her whereabouts?”
Einnol shook his head.
“We think someone beat us to it.”
Einnol nodded. This confirmed his suspicion.
“One of my men saw someone leave this morning. A dermorian. Unfortunately, he lost him in the crowds.” She looked closely at Einnol. “Have you any idea where Arka may have gone, Einnol? It is vitally important we find her.”
Einnol raised a bushy eyebrow. “Really? I thought she was on the mend?”
“Can I confide in you, Einnol?”
Einnol shifted uncomfortably. If Lolitra had information for him, she would expect some in return. He nodded, hoping she had not noticed his hesitation.
Lolitra looked concerned. “Arka may be on her feet again, but I fear the recovery will be short lived. The results of a strong potion. She has two or three days at the most.”
Einnol sighed. So, his instincts were right. Arka had gone away to die. He now knew that the only way to help her was to collaborate, regardless of what Arka had written in her letter.
“Can we talk privately?” he asked.
“Of course. The Royal House is not far from here. I suggest we go there.”
Einnol’s mind was racing as they made their way to the queen’s residence. He was still no further forward. Only Sarine knew where Arka might be and so far she had been unable to help. It shouldn’t be that difficult to work out. What would he do if he were Arka? Where would he go? Maybe Lolitra would have better ideas.
-
Arka,
You just cannot die. Oh, to think of our world without Arka in it, how awful!! Leama goes to pray for Arka's safe return.
I love it Arka, you are the best!!
More More More - it is like an early Christmas present.
Leama.
-
ooo, this is just soooo exciting. Lolitra is just soo so worried about her dear friend and scholar Arka Garham
Oh she cannot die... please no no... it would be heartbreaking.
-
Part 25: A late visitor
Sarine checked the children were asleep and made her way downstairs. She wondered how she would find Einnol. Maybe Andoryn knew where he lived. She would be suspicious, but Sarine had no choice. The longer she left this, the less chance of finding Arka… No, she mustn’t think like that.
Pulling a cloak around her she set out into the night.
****
Einnol and Lolitra had spent several hours exploring the options. Einnol had not told her about the letter. He didn’t want Sarine disturbed. If the queen sent for her, she would be so nervous, she would never remember where Arka had taken her.
He now knew how serious Arka’s illness had been, and that she had set out through the North gates. He had told Lolitra that Arka had taken her axes and had packed for a journey of at least a day, probably more. Between them, they had identified three or four possible routes. Einnol had agreed that he would search the eastern side of the main road, while Lolitra’s men would take the western side. Both knew that this was just guesswork, but that to do nothing was not an option. Einnol had left just before midnight. He went home to pack, then set off for Sarine’s house. He hoped she would not be too frightened to let him in at this hour.
*****
Sarine was knocking timidly at Andoryn’s door. She hated being out this late. Having spent so long living underground, she was still nervous of the town. Every sound, every movement made her jump.
She knocked more loudly, and a light appeared at the window upstairs. The window opened and Andoryn’s face appeared, framed with deep red hair.
“Who is it?” she called.
“It’s me,” Sarine answered nervously.
Andoryn hurried downstairs and pulled the door open. “What are you doing out so late? Come in out of the cold.”
Sarine followed her inside. Andoryn’s house was small but nicely furnished. A coat of arms hung over the fireplace, and beneath it the portraits of a Nolthrir and Diabolo, dressed in fine clothes. Both had gold and silver circlets on their heads. Andoryn caught her looking at them.
“My parents,” she said in a matter-of-fact way.
Sarine gave a little gasp.
Andoryn ignored this. “What brings you here, so late?”
“I am sorry to disturb you, but I need to find Einnol. It’s very important, but please don’t ask me what it is about. I am afraid I am sworn to secrecy.”
Now it was Andoryn’s turn to be surprised. “It’s a bit late to be calling on him. Why don’t we wait until morning?” She was wondering how Alleri, his wife would react.
“It can’t wait. Really. It’s really important.”
“If you are sure.”
Sarine nodded, “I am.”
“Give me a few moments to get dressed and I’ll come with you.”
A pained expression crossed Sarine’s face. She didn’t want Andoryn listening in on her conversation with Einnol. This was all turning out so difficult. Taking control of her panic, she looked up at Andoryn. In the candle light, it was hard to tell, but she thought she saw a faint smile. “Just tell me where he lives. I don’t want to disturb you.”
“No, really I think it would be better if I came with you.”
Andoryn disappeared upstairs for a few moments and reappeared dressed for the cold night air.
Despite Sarine’s protests, the two set off for Einnol’s house. Andoryn walked in silence for a while, deep in thought. She was wondering what was happening. This must be a serious matter for Sarine to be out so late, and she had been so adamant about seeing Einnol. What had Ennol found in the library, and why were the two being so secretive? Did Sarine know about Alleri? Eventually, she could contain herself no longer.
“You do know Einnol is married?” she asked.
Sarine’s voice sounded shocked. “What has that to do with anything?” she asked.
“I just thought…”
“Well you thought wrong.” Sarine was pleased it was dark so that Andoryn would not see her blushing.
Andoryn fell silent, realising she had said completely the wrong thing.
Eventually, Sarine spoke again, “I am sorry to be so mysterious, Andoryn. If I could tell you I would, but Arka has entrusted me with a job to do and it is her wishes that I keep it to myself. I cannot tell you more. Please don’t ask any more questions. I cannot tell you anything.”
Andoryn was more intrigued than ever but held her tongue. So this was about Arka? But she was being looked after by Lolitra. Erelenga had taken her to Lolitra’s house. If Arka was back on her feet, she would have come to see her, she was sure of that. And what had this to do with whatever Einnol had found in the library? Maybe she could wheedle it out of him.
Soon they arrived at Einnol’s house and Andoryn was surprised to see candles burning through the widows. She knocked at the door. After a few moments it opened to reveal a small female dwarf.
“Hello Andoryn,” said Alleri, “Who is this?”
“This is Sarine,” replied Andoryn, “We are looking for your husband. Is he in?”
“Ah! Sarine! Einnol has only just left. He explained that you and he had a journey to make. He’s headed over to your house. You might catch up with him if you hurry.”
Sarine blushed. Einnol’s wife had given more away than she would have wanted. She hoped Andoryn would keep this to herself. But there was no time to waste. She thanked Alleri and headed across the plaza.
“Wait,” shouted Andoryn, but Sarine rushed off.
“What was that about?” she asked Alleri.
Alleri shrugged. “Einnol has been with Queen Lolitra this evening. I understand that they are organising a search party for Arka.”
“A search party? Is she lost?”
“There is some concern that she may not have recovered as well as she might have. And she seems to have set off on a journey.”
Andoryn looked thunderstruck. “I didn’t know. I assumed she was still with the queen.” Her mind was racing, and she didn’t like the conclusion that was rapidly forming.
“Well, that’s all I can tell you,” said Alleri, “I know the queen’s rangers are helping. I am sure they will find her.”
Andoryn was not so sure. She knew how resourceful Arka could be. She needed to talk with Aerianna and Rell, and quickly. If Arka was in danger, she wanted to be there for her. She thanked Alleri and made her way back towards the plaza.
-
Part 26: A rushed departure
Einnol was surprised to hear Sarine’s voice calling to him. He stopped and turned to see her running across the plaza towards him.
“I know where she is!” said Sarine, her dark eyes shining, “We have to go now!”
“Steady on,” said Einnol, kindly, “You have the children to take care of. Just tell me where she is and I will find her.”
“I know the way, but I will have to show you where to look.”
Einnol shook his head. “It could be dangerous.”
“This is my responsibility,” she replied, “I have to find her. The children will be fine on their own for a few days. The twins are capable of looking after little Declan and there is enough food in the house for a week.”
They carried on walking towards Sarine’s house and Sarine told Einnol about her dream. She had now fully remembered the trip she had made with Arka and Aerianna. Arka had taken her to see the fortress after the visit to her former home. Einnol immediately recognised her description of the Bronze Doors.
“’Tis a long way,” said Einnol, “At least a day. If we set off now we will not be there until the day after tomorrow.”
“So I can come with you?”
Einnol sighed. “I guess I have no choice.”
Sarine grinned.
Once she was home, Sarine woke Joana and explained that he and Valiki would be in charge for a few days, until her return. She threw a few clothes together into a backpack, while Einnol collected some food for her, and filled a flask with water.
Half and hour later they were on the road. Einnol and Sarine walked briskly and in silence. Einnol was thinking through what Lolitra had told him, and wondering how much he should share with Sarine. He didn’t want to worry her, but she should know that Arka would very possibly be already dead when they arrived. He tried in vain to find a form of words that would soften the blow. A sudden cold sensation on his cheek made him realise that his tears had begun to flow. He wiped his face on his sleeve, glad of the darkness to hide his grief. Maybe this was best left unsaid. Admitting Arka might be dead would be tempting fate.
Sarine was struck with Einnol’s silence. She wondered what was going through his mind. Alleri had said he had been with the queen earlier. What had they spoken about? She wished Einnol would talk to her, to reassure her that everything would be all right, that they would find Arka in time. He was so strong, so confident. If anything was wrong, he would tell her, she reasoned. There must be a good chance of saving her. She thought of her children safe in bed, oblivious of the danger facing their favourite ‘aunt’. For a brief moment she felt envious, and wondered if she should have stayed with them. How good to be young and innocent, unaware of the dangers of life. She shuddered, suddenly aware of the dangers that might lie ahead. “Stop it, Sarine!” she said to herself, “Einnol is a good dwarf. He will take care of you.” She looked at Einnol, wiping the sweat from his brow with his sleeve, and knew that everything would be fine.
They had already travelled several miles before Einnol realised he had forgotten to alert Lolitra of his change of plans. There was no option but to press on. He could not afford to lose any more time, if what Lolitra had told him was accurate. He shrugged and scratched his beard. Maybe her rangers would pick up his trail, maybe they would pass someone on the road in the morning who could take a message back to the city. This way was used by convoys taking food up to the garrison at the Bronze Doors, and the officers there often sent runners with important messages back to Hydlaa.
He was so deep in thought, so absorbed in following the path ahead, that he had failed to notice the small group that had followed them out of the city. He was too focussed on getting to the Bronze Doors to notice the faint footsteps and hushed whispers behind.
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Part 27: Found
Parryen and Ffallma had set out before Einnol and Sarine. They had left the road at the point they had found the dermorian’s tracks, although the heavy rain that day had washed them away. They struck out to the northwest, aiming to pick up an old hunting trail. That would take them across a broad ridge. By the time it was light, they should have a good view of the surrounding countryside.
There was no sign of the dwarf, or the dermorian, although they knew that there were only two or three ways though the hills there and reckoned on Arka taking the easiest route.
By dawn, they had reached the cave in which Arka had sheltered. Parryen had spotted the uprooted bushes and inside they found a piece of waybread and scraps of dried meat.
“It looks like she slept here,” said Ffallma. “We may be able to catch up with her.”
Parryen shook his head. “She set out hours ago. Even though she will be moving slowly, she will be many miles away by now. At least now we should be able to track her.”
They set out, following Arka’s prints, clearly visible in the wet ground. A mile further on, Parryen stopped suddenly.
“What is it?” asked his companion.
“I heard a noise. Someone in pain.”
They fell silent. At first, they could hear nothing. Then a low moan, some way off the path. The two menkis drew their knives and ran silently towards the sound. A figure lay beneath a tree. Cautiously, they approached, fearing a trap, but the figure made no movement. Moving closer they could see that he was a dermorian. He was wrapped in a thick woollen cloak, tied with a silver leaf at the shoulder. Parryen knelt and moved the cloth away from his face.
“Mr. Karal!” he exclaimed, “Mr. Karal! Are you all right?”
Erelenga stirred. His face was pale and his lips were blue. He’d clearly been here for some time.
“Arka… she was… here,” he murmured.
Ffallma reached into his pack and found the bottle of brown liquid. “Here, take this,” he said.
Parryen helped Erelenga into a sitting position while Ffallma administered the potion, The colour began to rise in his cheeks. Parryen shot his companion a glance, but said nothing.
“Thanks. You came just in time, I believe.” His voice was still weak.
“You were lucky we came this way, “ said Parryen, “We had picked up Miss Garam’s trail. If we hadn’t heard you, we would have gone right past.”
Ffallma looked at Erelenga. “What were you doing out here? It’s a long way from Hydlaa.”
Erelnga looked slightly embarrassed. “The minute I realised that Arka was in danger, I set out to find her. I didn’t want to waste any time, so I didn’t prepare for the journey. It was stupid of me, but I thought I’d catch up with her quickly on the road. In my haste, I tripped and twisted my ankle. Then I lost her tracks and realised she had set out across country. I didn’t have time to go back to the university for my walking boots, and my ankle wasn’t hurting too badly, so I strapped it with a strip of cloth from my shirt and carried on. The trouble is, she covered her tracks and I could only guess what direction she went in. Then it started to rain. I slipped in the mud and that’s when I felt the ankle go. I think it’s broken. I crawled under this tree for shelter, and I guess I passed out. If you two hadn’t come by, I don’t know what would have happened.”
Parryen looked at Erelenga’s ankle. “I think you may be right. It’s very swollen. We’ll have to get you back to Hydlaa, somehow. At least that clears up one mystery. We saw your tracks and wondered who was following Arka.”
“No,” said Erelnga, “You need to go on and find Arka. She is great danger. Leave me some food and the potion. I can survive until you get back.”
Parryen looked at him. “There’s a cave a few hundred paces back towards Hydlaa. At least you can let us take you back to it. You will be out of the wind there.”
They carried Erelenga back to the cave and made sure he was comfortable. Parryen strapped the ankle with a fresh bandage and left enough food and water for three days. “We will be back as soon as we can, “he said, “Try to conserve your energy, and keep warm.”
Erelenga nodded and wrapped his cloak tightly around him.
“We will not be long. Take care.”
With that the two menkis left him and set out once more following Arka’s footprints. After a short distance, Parryen turned to the younger menki.
“That potion you gave Mr. Karal...”
Ffallma nodded.
“…We have another bottle, for Miss Garam, I take it?”
Ffallma’s eyes widened. “I, err…well… No. I thought…”
Parryen put a friendly paw on his shoulder. “I thought so. You did the right thing, Ffallma. We have no way of knowing whether the dwarf will be alive when we find her. Better to have saved Mr. Karal than to return to the queen with the news that she had lost two of her friends.”
Ffallma managed a weak smile. He was lucky to have Parryen as his mentor. They quickened their pace as they reached the top of the ridge. The first rays of the Azure sun lit up the valley below, shrouded in early morning mist, tinged with blue and gold. Once this cleared, Parryen thought, they would have a better idea of what lay ahead. He looked at his companion. He was young, but he was learning fast. He just hoped he wouldn’t make any more mistakes.
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Part 28: Home
Arka was exhausted as she approached her old home, but she knew she had no time to rest. She cleared the trapdoor of fallen leaves and soil and pulled it open, straining against the rusty hinges.
It was cool and dark inside the cellar, but thankfully dry. Arka fumbled in her bag for a candle and struck a spark into her tinder box. Once lit, the candle cast dancing shadows around the corners of the underground room. In the corner stood the oak chest, that Arka had last opened many months ago. She took the gold key from round her neck and turned it easily in the lock. The clasp sprung open and she lifted the lid. It was empty, save a few pieces of paper and some scraps of cloth.
Arka took out her precious package from the leather satchel and laid it at the bottom of the chest. She had guarded her mother’s notebooks with her life, and now it seemed so strange to let them go. But Arka closed the lid and locked it before she could change her mind. She had to do this.
She opened her satchel again and took out a piece of blank paper and her travelling pen and inkpot. In a slightly shaky hand, she wrote her last letter to her dear friend, Einnol.
Kera Einnol,
I am sorry to leave you this way without a word of farewell. But my time is drawing near and I need you to do this one last service for me. By now you will have the key and will be able to open the chest. You should know what lies inside. Use it well.
Do not take my body back to Hydlaa. I will be buried with my parents, outside these walls. Thank Sarine for her help and kiss the children. Do not grieve for me; I go to join Golthart and Embra in the Great Halls.
Until we meet again,
Garrido’
Arka
She folded the letter and put it on top of the chest. One last thing to attend to and then she could rest. She climbed wearily from the cellar and walked towards the lake. In the early morning mist it looked enchanted. Here and there were circular ripples as the fish rose to feed on the pond skaters and mosquitoes. Feeling suddenly tired, Arka sat for a moment, just enjoying being back home. A flood of memories came back to her; her childhood and apprenticeship, working with her father in the forge. And above all, Pinante, an older and wiser dwarf, showing her how to catch fish with a line of waxed flax and a bent hook. He would laugh at her reaction to the silver fish, flapping on the bank and her struggling to get the hook out of its mouth.
All her life, Pinante had been there. He had covered for her the time she dressed as a male dwarf to take part in the biennial hunt, when her father had forbade her. Old Golthart had been furious when he found out, but Pinante had stuck up for her. And when she returned to Hydlaa, Pinante had been there, the only other survivor from the village, as far as she knew. Over the years, he had become an adept; not a mage, but able to weave spells as well as many others, and better than any dwarf she knew.
He had saved her life both times she had been confronted by Sudisir. He was there when Sudisir had died. And then… he just disappeared. She often wondered where he had gone and always expected him to walk in to the university with a cheery greeting, but he never did. She felt sad that he hadn’t said goodbye and wondered if he gone ahead to the Great Halls. Well, soon she would know.
With her axe, she dug a shallow hole in the sand by the shore and laid the necklace and key at the bottom. She filled in the hole and covered it over with dead leaves. She wiped her precious axe clean on a patch of grass. She nodded to herself; her work was done. Now she just needed to make herself ready.
Stopping briefly at her parents’ grave she gazed at the rough headstone she had carved, many months before. There was no time to add her name; maybe Einnol would think to do so after he had buried her. She bowed her head and spoke to her dead mother and father in the old tongue, promising that they would soon be reunited.
She made her way back to the cellar to change into her white robe and wait for death. As she took off her shirt, a piece of parchment fell to the floor. She remembered the letter she had written in case someone found her before she had made it home. Picking up the paper, she held it against the candle flame until it caught then let it burn away in her hand, finally dropping the ashes in the corner of the cellar.
Arka folded her clothes neatly and placed them inside her backpack. She took a last drink of water, lay her cloak on the floor folding it over to make a pillow at one end and lay down he axes, one on each side. She took a last look around the room and lay down, folding her arms across her chest. Within moments she had lapsed once again into a deep sleep.
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eeeek... what can I say? what can I do... Lolitra will be devistated she let you get out, just to die...
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Part 29: Pie and ale
Einnol and Sarine made good progress on the road and by mid-day they were almost half way to the Bronze Doors. They had walked the last few miles in silence, both deep in their own thoughts.
It was Sarine who broke the silence.
“Do you think we could stop for a while? My feet are sore and I need to eat.”
“Of course,” replied Einnol kindly, “We are making good time, and a short break will not delay us too much.”
Sarine sat down on the grass and took a small pie from her backpack. She cut it in half with a pocket knife and handed a piece to Einnol. His eyes lit up. “Homemade Tef pie! Just what I needed.”
Einnol took a bite and savoured the fresh pastry. Then reaching into his own bag he took out an oilskin and two small mugs. “A drop of ale will help it go down,“ he said, offering a mug to Sarine.
The two sat together for a while, enjoying the food and drink and the warmth of the crystal. Einnol was puzzling over something Sarine had told him back in Hydlaa.
At length he spoke, through a mouthful of piecrust, “Ye know ye told me about Arka’s parents?”
Sarine looked up. “Yes?”
“Did she tell ye how they died?”
“It was an attack by those big beasts – Ulbernauts.”
“Ulbernauts? They attacked her parents in the village?”
“More than that,” said Sarine, “They destroyed the village.”
Einnol shook his head. “That is not usual,” he said, “Ulbernauts tend to stay away from people. The only time they attack is when they are cornered. They may be vicious, but they are not fearless, and certainly not reckless.”
Sarine thought about this. “Arka said something about them being goaded into it. By an elf, I think.”
“A dermorian?” asked Einnol.
“No, not exactly. Like a dermorian, she told me. A dark elf, I think she said.”
Einnol scratched his beard. He was trying to remember something Arka had once told him.
He turned to face Sarine again. “Did Arka tell you the name of the elf?”
Sarine wrinkled her brow. “I think she did. It was an odd name. Like Sussy dear.”
Einnol’s eyes narrowed. “Could it have been Sudisir?” he asked. He was remembering his conversation with Lolitra the previous night. A dermorian had been seen limping away from the university. Someone had been in Arka’s rooms before him. He remembered the name from a conversation with Arka, a long time ago. She had told him very little, but he was sure the elf had died. A spell had backfired and he had fallen from the tower. No one could have survived a fall like that. But what if he had survived? One thing he knew was that Arka was afraid of this elf, mortally afraid. He had tried to kill her on more than one occasion. And Sudisir would know of Arka’s old home. Surely, he would have realised that Arka would have returned there.
Einnol bit his lip. How could he have been so stupid! He should have remembered; he should have known Sudisir would have been after her. Now one of his best friends would die because of his lack of wit.
He drained his mug. “Sarine! We have to go. Now!”
Sarine didn’t answer. She was staring over Einnol’s shoulder.
Einnol wheeled round in time to see a small figure dart back into the cover of the shadows.
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Part 30: Company
“No Einnol!” shouted Sarine, but he was already running towards the trees, an axe in each hand.
Sarine dropped her mug and ran after him, but Einnol was already swinging his axes. “Einnol! Stop!” she shouted.
There was a squeal then the sound of wind rustling through the trees. Einnol had stopped running, and stood staring, his mouth open and his axes hanging loosely in his hands. In front of him were Rell, Andoryn and Aerianna. Andoryn lowered the hand holding the pale glyph, and gradually the swirling winds subsided.
“What the blazes?” Einnol thundered, “I could ha’ killed ye. What were ye doing creepin’ up on us like that?”
Aerianna looked at her feet, but Andoryn met his gaze, coolly. “I think you would have found my defences more than a match for your weapons.”
“Ye think a puff of magic wind would ha’ stopped me, do ye? A fart would have a better chance than your fancy tricks!”
Andoryn blanched, and Rell sniggered but stopped when Einnol glared at him. “And you, Sir Rell. I thought ye would ha’ had more sense!”
“We were only curious…” began Aerianna.
“Curious?” bellowed Einnol, shaking with rage, “Well did ye’ know Missy, that it was curiosity as killed the cat? Think on that!”
Sarine arrived at Einnol’s shoulder, out of breath. “Let them be, Mr. Feldorm,” she said kindly, “I’m sure they didn’t mean to startle us.”
“Then why were they creeping around in the bushes? Eh?”
Andoryn answered, her voice still calm. “I know we shouldn’t have followed you, Einnol, but …well you and Sarine were acting strangely. Then there was that business in the library. It was so obvious that you found what you were looking for. Then Alleri told me you were looking for Arka, that she’d gone on a journey. We wanted to help, but I knew you’d turn us away, so we followed you from a distance.”
“If we had known we were coming this far, we’d have packed some food,” said Rell, eyeing the pastry crumbs in Einnol’s beard.
“Hmmph!” snorted Einnol, “Well, you’ve slowed us down enough already. If you want to eat, ye can do it on the hoof.”
“You mean we can come with you?” asked Aerianna, jumping up and down.
Einnol gave her a look that stopped her in mid jump. “We’re not on a picnic,” he said, “If ye must know, Arka’s life is in danger. If we waste any more time, ye will all be in need of a new language teacher!” He stomped off to get his bags, the others following behind.
Sarine handed round the rest of the pies before pulling her backpack onto her shoulders and the group set off on the last leg of the journey towards the Bronze Doors. For the first mile, they walked in silence, but eventually Einnol’s rage subsided and he started to recount the sequence of events that had led to him and Sarine setting off in search of Arka’s old home.
He was careful not to tell them anything about Sudisir, though. He knew he would have to deal with him alone. He didn’t want to put the others at risk. Sarine would be a problem, he thought. She would want to help. But if Sudisir was already there, he would be waiting for them. He had to find some way of keeping the others out of harm’s way.
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I just had to laugh at this chapter :D
reading someone's dialogue while they're in a rage is fun ;p
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yes, it has a hint of humour in the rage... heheh very well written
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A little light relief before the storm...
And thanks to Einnol for reading over this before hand and putting me right on some of the dialogue.
Arka
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Arka,
Very well done and thank you for making me laugh. Though I do hope that your friends get to you on time. Einnol please hurry.
Leama.
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Part 31: Death
It wasn’t long before Arka felt herself sinking into the earth. Down she drifted deeper and deeper, losing all sense of feeling as the potion that had brought her back to life lost its power over her.
She found herself back in the place were souls were tested before moving on. She saw again the strange floating rocks, surrounding a maze of walkways and columns, now familiar. She wondered if her mother would still be there, waiting for her return. They had made it together to the portal, but then Arka had lost her grip on her hand and came back to the living. Had her mother passed through to the other side, or had she fallen back? She had to find the portal again, but first she would search for her mother; she did not want to risk leaving her again in this dreadful place.
She walked in a daze through the first tunnel, her body feeling like lead and her spirits equally heavy. Hugging the rock face, she edged her way up a spiral pathway until she found the rusty iron ladder leading upwards. She thought of the Carkarass waiting at the top, and was amazed to find her Great Axes suddenly appear in her hands.
For a moment she thought she might be dreaming. She had only once told Lordbug about her first trip to this place, many months ago. He had laughed and told her it was just a dream and she had said no more. She knew it was real, but she also knew no one else would believe her, if Lordbug would not.
To her relief there was no winged creature at the top of the steps and she put her axes away. As soon as they left her hands, they vanished. “Curious,” she thought, but carried on across the bridge to the huge dark citadel.
Some time later she was standing in the cavernous library, surrounded by the stacks of books that recorded the names of those that had passed through this way. There was no sign of her mother. Arka wondered how she would have found her way back here, blind and helpless. It was much more likely that she had stayed near the portal if she was here at all.
Nevertheless, she made a thorough search before pressing on. The trip to the portal took far less time than she remembered, but this time she was alone and knew the way. Only once did she take a wrong turn that led to a dead end.
Finally she arrived, cold and dejected at the stone head that she recognised as the gateway between this place and the next. Her mother was not here. For a moment she stood and pondered whether she should step into the swirling lights and move on, but something held her back. She was not convinced her mother had passed through. Something deep inside told her that she should take one last look.
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Noooooooo step away from the light.. step away... come back to us.. wake from the deathly grip of the underworld.. don't leave... please.
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Arka - you are the reason another tree dies: I have to print your story, I simply can't read it all at the screen... ;)
Shall I print it in "Cup and Talon"?! :whistling:
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eheh
I'll plant one in the forest near my home!
As for Cup and Talon - you might find it a little hard on the eyes.
Arka
PS I hope Erelenga's fate was not too painful for you
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One question ...... why in the hell are you writing for PS? ::| You should be doing this for a living!?
I feel so lucky that I don't have to actually buy this story you have written from a store to read it. It amazes me how well you tell your story Arka. It makes me feel like I am really there. It has all the elements a story would need. It will be a sad day indeed when you no longer grace the forums with your story telling but I will be forever grateful for your posted stories until that day comes. I think out of all I have read on the forums your stories are my favorties! Keep it coming! I am loving it!
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Zorbels!
It's so good to have you back - I had heard a whisper. If I had known you were coming I'd have written you into the story! :D
I'm so pleased to have you on board with this (last) episode in Arka's return. There's plenty more to come.
Arka
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Part 32: Waiting in the dark
Arka turned her back on the portal and saw for the first time that there was a second path, leading away to the left. She followed this up a steep set of steps and arrived at an arched doorway, blocked off with stonework. At first this appeared to be another dead end, but as Arka touched the stone, it slid inwards revealing another passage. Arka peered inside. It was dark and the air smelt stale. Taking a deep breath she stepped over the threshold and began to feel her way gingerly along the wall of the passage, which gently sloped downwards.
After about a hundred paces, the wall ended and she found herself in some kind of room. She could not see the walls, but knew from the echoing sounds of her steps that this space was large and enclosed. She wished she had some light as she had no idea how she would get back out again.
She stopped walking for a moment and listened to the the echoes dying away. She imagined she could hear a soft sigh, from some way off. There was a sense of another being in here. Arka felt her pulse racing. She had to take the risk.
“Mattra?”
Nothing.
“Embra?”
Still silence.
Louder this time. “Embra Garam?”
Her voice bounced back from a distant wall “Ram-ram-ram.”
She turned to go back then stopped. This time there was a murmur to her right. She turned her head in the darkness and heard clearly in the old tongue, “Estyõ.”
She ran towards the sound, blindly in the dark, tears streaming down her face. She hit a wall and sat down heavily. For a while she was dazed and imagined she felt a hand on her shoulder. Then she realised the hand was real. A voice she recognised, but weaker, shakier, than she remembered. “Arka? Is it you?”
Arka held out her arms and felt a small figure in front of her. “Eh, Mattra. Estyõ,”
She got to her feet and the two embraced, feeling the warmth of each others’ bodies in this cold, damp, dark place. “I have to get you out of here,” she said, taking her mother’s arm. "We have to find Pattra. He will be waiting in the Great Halls."
Together they felt their way along the wall, until they found the start of the passage. Gradually a light appeared in the distance, a tiny speck to begin with, but growing as they made their way along the path.
“Nearly there,“ said Arka and squeezed her mother’s hand. They arrived at the portal and Arka carefully led her mother towards the light. Now she hooked her arm through her mother’s. She was determined that this time they would go together.
Stepping into the swirl of colour, she was suddenly bathed in light. It seemed to fill her body, replenishing her energy and filling her with hope and joy. She could just make out a small figure in front of her, slowly descending, a halo of light around his head. Her heart leapt. “Pattra!” she shouted, “Pattra! Estyõ, e Arka!”
“Oh! I am not your father,” came the reply, in a familiar voice that filled Arka with dread.
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who who... oh you devil - you tease... heheh but it is fantastic.
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Wow, you've spend alot of time on this, Arka, I am truly impressed! :woot: its by far one of the best I've ever read here. \\o//
keep it coming!
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:o Cliffhanger!!1 AHHH!!!!! :'(
Arka, this story is amazing, LOVE IT!!!! :thumbup:
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Drahlian sits down at her desk, exhausted after a long day of refining and building her knowledge of the darker arts of magic. She smiles to herself at the success of her recent dealings with her demon associates. The price they demand for their assistance is steep, but the reward of the power she gains from them makes her sacrifices worthwhile. The long day behind her, she sits back and contemplates her next move.
Drahlian's smile disappears as she thinks back at Dwarvesbane's defeat so long ago in the final battles against the dwarven army, and scratches absently at the old wound in her side left by the blade of their general Bodacher. A direct conflict with their enormous army was folly. Next time, her attack must be more subtle. She contemplates several ideas, before reaching for parchment, feather pen and a small bottle of ink made from the blood of dwarves, then slowly begins composing a letter to one of her demon allies.
"Mighty Fenrauch the Malignant,
"I am writing to you to further appeal for you assistance in my quest to destroy the world of the dwarven vermin. It is clear that a head to head war with the dwarves is beyond our power, for the time being at least. However, I am convinced that together we can weaken the dwarven community a great deal by attacking the minds of their youth, poisoning their spirits, and draining away their hopes. With the assistance of you and your demon subordinates, we can soon begin a more subtle attack, one where they do no expect, a ripe target now that their guard is down.
"I believe the most effective target would be the young dwarves at a certain University..."
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That official to the story, Drahlian, or is it just roleplay to come?
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Part 33: A rude awakening
Arka felt for her mother’s arm but found instead the handle of her axe. She blinked as light flooded into the cellar from the open trapdoor. Her head swam and a sick feeling enveloped her stomach.
“Aren’t you glad to see me?” said the voice in a high-pitched mocking whine, “You should be.”
“You can’t kill me,” said Arka, her voice shaking with fear and the effort of speaking, “I’m already dead.”
“Oh! But I don’t want to kill you. Not this time.”
Arka tried to make sense of this, but failed. “It’s too late Sudisir. I am dying. You can’t do anything to me now.”
“Oh, I think you may be wrong there.” Arka noticed for the first time that the elf was holding a sheet of parchment. He began to read aloud; terrible words in an arcane language. Words that ripped into her brain and seared the inside of her skull. Lights flashed in her tightly-shut eyes and she felt her body lift from the ground.
“What… is this?”
Sudisir continued chanting the words in the same whining voice and Arka's body convulsed. The words continued and gradually the convulsions subsided. Slowly, she felt her strength returning. Warmth spread throughout her body and her pulse strengthened. The pain in her head diminished and she found herself drifting back to the floor, breathing easily again.
She sat up, hardly believing what had just happened. Then a thought struck her. “You have brought me back to life just so you could kill me?”
“Wrong again, my little Nibin-Noeg.”
“I am Stonebreaker,” protested Arka.
“As I have said before, it’s all the same to me.”
Arka looked at the sheet of paper Sudisir was holding. One edge was torn and there was writing on the reverse. She suddenly knew what it was. “You cursed me! It was you that made me ill. That’s the page Einnol took from the library.”
“Well done!” jeered the elf, “And yes, Einnol was very helpful to bring me this.”
Arka looked astounded. “You made Einnol steal this for you? How?”
“It’s a long and complicated story and I don’t have much time. Your friends may well be on their way here by now and I don’t want to make a scene.”
“What do you want with me?”
“Oh, that’s simple. I want your history. Or, more precisely, your mother’s history.”
Sudisir looked around the cellar and his eyes fell on the oak chest. “Ah! What have we here?”
“It’s locked,” said Arka levelly, “and I don’t have the key.”
“I know, Nibin-Noeg, and that is why I brought this.” He fished in his pocket and pulled out a necklace from which hung a small gold key.”
Arka jumped up. “How did you get that?”
“I came across it by the lake. Someone had very carelessly buried it in the mud there. Was it you, Nibin-Noeg?”
“You were here before me?”
“Oh, yes, and I had to wait a very long time. What kept you?”
“How did you know I would come here?”
Sudisir reached into another pocket and pulled out a second piece of paper. He held it up and started to read, “Letters: Lolitra, Erelenga, Sarine. Food for three days. Pack clothes (the white gown). Gather notebooks.”
Arka’s heart sank. How could she have been so stupid to have left it behind?
Sudisir continued, “First, the letters – the first two are easy. Lolitra to thank her for her hospitality and Erelenga to hand over the university. Am I right? Sarine had me stumped. Clearly not an order for pies. But then I remembered you helped her out once, didn’t you? She owed you a favour.”
“How did you know that?” asked Arka.
“People… talk to me,” he said, “They… tell me what I want to know…usually.”
Arka shuddered. She could imagine.
“Now,” continued Sudisir, “'Food for three days'. That, and the fact your precious axes were gone made me think you were going on a journey. I didn’t think you’d be in the mood for hunting. 'Pack clothes' – yes, definitely a journey and I must say the white gown is very fetching on you.” He leered at Arka and she felt most uncomfortable.
“But the most interesting thing on the list,” he crooned, “is ‘gather notebooks’. So, you had them in your rooms all along. They must have been very well hidden.”
“You searched my rooms?”
“Only a few times. Once you were safely out of the way and that idiot Jefecra had taken his guards off duty.”
“Guards?”
“You didn’t know Jefecra had you guarded? Do you walk around with your eyes shut?”
Arka was beginning to wonder if Sudisir knew more about her than she did herself.
“So I asked myself, ‘Where would Arka be taking those notebooks? A journey of up to three days. Where would you want to end your days?' Then I remembered the little gravestone you made and it all came back to me. Easy really. You made a good job of repairing it, I must say.”
Arka looked confused by this last remark, but said nothing.
“And now I get the notebooks.”
“So you can finally destroy them?”
Sudisir looked surprised. “Why would I want to destroy them?"
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/me presses her face against the monitor screen with suspense X-/
More! ...................... please?
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I'm going to be so depresed when this has finished.
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Depressed... that is such an understatement.... oh ARKA... you have me more than captivated, you have my every ounce of anticipation on tenterhooks....
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Part 34: The agreement
Arka was astonished. “I thought…”
“Why did you think I wanted you alive?” asked Sudisir, “If I wanted to destroy the books I could have just killed you and taken them. I need you to help me understand them.”
“And what do I get in return?”
“Your life.”
“Can I trust you?”
“Can you afford not to trust me?”
Arka thought about this. She had no idea why Sudisir wanted to understand her people’s history. But she had nothing to lose. If he killed her, she would be with her parents. If he let her live…
“I have one condition,” she heard herself say.
“You dare to bargain with me?” said Sudisir, his shrill voice suddenly rising.
Arka looked at him coolly. “I will tell you my story if you tell me yours. I need to know what happened to you after you fell from the tower.”
“Everything?”
Arka nodded. “Everything.”
“And in return you will explain your mother’s notes to me?”
“I will.”
Sudisir looked thoughtful for a while. For a moment, Arka wondered if he would refuse. She was in no position to bargain. Sudisir could easily overpower her and force her to cooperate. But she thought he would not be able to resist the chance to talk about himself, and she had judged him well.
He drew himself up to his full height and looked down at Arka, still sitting on her cloak. He smiled, an expression that seemed to take an effort on his part. "Well. It would seem, my little Nibin-Noeg, that we have a deal.”
They both settled down. This would take some time. Time enough for Einnol to arrive, thought Arka.
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All I can say is "Truly Amazing". Keep it coming Arka, I want more.
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/me kicks his alter ego in the rear 'Hurry up and get there. What's taking you so long?' ;D
Captivating, Arka. Keep it coming. \\o//
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Part 35: Susidir's story
‘Where shall I start?’ asked Sudisir.
“The fall from the tower. How did you survive?”
Sudisir winced. “I was badly injured, despite the spells that were used to cushion my fall. My back was broken. I could not move for weeks. I was taken in by Drahlian and her friends.”
Arka’s eyes widened. “The Dwarvesbane! So you were in league with them?”
“I used them, Arka, like I have used many others. They served a purpose; that was all. Now do you want to hear this story or not?”
Arka nodded and fell silent.
“I had befriended one of Drahlian’s followers after he had tried to kill you and Zorbels. Sardit, a dermorian. He introduced me to Drahlian and she explained her mission. It seemed to fit quite nicely with what I was planning, so I fell in with her. After the fiasco on the tower top they took me in and nursed me back to health. I have that to be grateful for. But the injury took a lot of my strength and left me with this accursed limp.
“Then the war came. I was still incapacitated and bitterly wanted my revenge on you and your friends. It was so frustrating not being able to walk. I hoped that you would join the Dwarven Star so that you would be killed in battle and I would be avenged. But the word came that you chose to stay in your marble towers of learning while your students perished.”
“That’s not how it was!” Sudisir had touched a raw nerve and Arka was angry. “I would have fought with my brothers. I wanted to. But my position at the University…”
“So you put your position above your race? How touching. Status before honour.”
Arka fell silent again deeply ashamed and embarrassed.
Sudisir continued, “After the war, Drahlian was banished and her followers drifted apart. I managed to survive. But the injuries had affected me. I brooded during those months. I wanted to cause havoc and destruction. But I was impotent. Useless, useless, useless. I tried to get to you, at the university, and when you were out hunting, but Jefecra had you followed everywhere. There was always a guard with you.”
He ran his fingers through his hair and pulled at the roots. Then after a long sigh, he went on, “Then, news came to me of a strange disease spreading throughout the population. It seemed that no-one could find the cause. I followed the stories with great interest – you see, I suspected that there was some dark magic behind it, something I could maybe use to my advantage. And I was right – on both counts.
“Then an amazing coincidence. The one who ended up holding the glyph – the wonderful Compulsion Glyph – was none other than your language student, Mr. Einnol Feldorm. It was like a present from the Gods. I thought I could use that glyph to captivate you Arka. And now I had someone who could do that for me.”
“You used Einnol?”
“It was very easy, really. Einnol had already fallen under the glyph’s spell when I met him. It took very little to persuade him to steal the page I needed from your library.”
“How did you know where it was?”
“Where do think I learned to use your glyph magick? I was a student under the old Dean. Don’t look so surprised, Arka. Your people let all sorts study at your university, don’t they? You don’t believe in judging people, do you? So you have students of the Dark Ways as well as the Light. Very commendable.
“So I knew there was a way of channelling the glyph. And the spell I needed was in that book. Getting inside Einnol’s mind, I guided him to the bookshelf, and helped him find the book and the page. I was copying it, when you suddenly appeared and I had Einnol tear it out.”
Sudisir picked up the parchment from the floor where it lay. “You might as well have it back now. I don’t need it any more.
Arka took the paper. “So this is where it went.”
“Yes, but as you know, it was no use to me. I read the spell over and over, but it seemed to me there was something wrong. Then I counted the words and realised the parsing was out. One word was missing from the page. It might have been an insignificant word, but I didn’t want to take the risk. Not with something as powerful as this. So I had Einnol practice with the glyph, instructing him with my mind. He was starting to have some success with it, but it was taking far too long. I realised I needed another way to get to you. Then one day, I noticed the charm on the reverse of the page. I could see that this was far more powerful than the Compulsion Glyph and set about planning how I could use it on you. The problem was I had to get close enough to you to make it work. And with Jefecra’s men shadowing you constantly, that was not an option.
“Then I met Hius. In a bar, in Akkaio. I recognised him as your Dean of Great Sciences and Craftings, although he didn’t know me. I explained that I had studied under the old Dean many years ago, before Hius had joined the university. After a few liquors, he was telling me all about the Compulsion Glyph and how he was planning to contain it using one of your ‘magic mugs’. It sounded a bit farfetched to me but I could see the beginnings of a possibility. I suggested to Hius that he might want to try it out on a less powerful glyph and gave him a spell he could use. Of course the spell would help me to control you, but he didn’t know that.
“I asked him if he had anything that might be suitable to use. I had meant to give him a glyph myself, but the story he told me of one he had found as a young boy gave me the opportunity I needed. It seems this glyph had empowered him to wreak his revenge on his enemies. I made a subtle suggestion that I had seen such a glyph before, in the Dean’s study and that he had told me that a priestess had given it to him. Of course, Hius then believed that his mother had taken the glyph to the university. Interesting how easy it is to make people accept as true the things they want to believe in.
“Then, it was just a matter of having someone plant the glyph in his room. That night I took a simple black pebble. I put a charm on it so that it would shine with black light when the spell I had taught Hius was used. A bit theatrical, I suppose, but it would add to its credibility.
“I sent a menki I had befriended to break into the university and to hide the ‘glyph’ in Hius’ room. Nowhere obvious, but able to be found easily. Then I waited.”
“So when Hius tried the experiment with the mugs he was using your spell?
Sudisir nodded.
“So how come the spell put me under your control? If Hius spoke the words, surely he would have control of my mind?”
“Ah, yes, that would have been the case, if I hadn’t altered the spell slightly. It was a risk, but I thought I could combine it with another charm. It almost worked.”
“Almost?”
Sudisir nodded and sat down on the cellar steps, his face lit by the daylight streaming through the open trapdoor. He continued, “The charm was meant to open your mind to mine, so that the moment Hius had spoken the words I would have access to it. I then used the controlling charm by speaking the words directly into your mind. Unfortunately, the first charm also erased your memory, so even though I could control your thoughts, there was nothing to read in your mind.”
“It didn’t completely erase my memory.”
“No, and that has puzzled me. You remembered about Einnol. And you went looking for him. Somehow, he helped you get your memory back. As soon as the first charm was broken I could no longer get into your mind. Unfortunately, the charm was broken, not removed. Only I could do that with the reversal charm from the book. That’s what I used to revive you just now.”
“Is that what made me ill?” asked Arka.
“It was a Dark Charm. In order to survive, it has to draw energy. And the nearest source of energy is the body of the host. So, yes, it was literally sucking the life out of you. I couldn’t get close enough to you to reverse it. At the university you were constantly guarded and then you moved into the queen’s household. At least then Jefecra took the guard off the university so I could get into your rooms.”
“So how did I recover?”
Sudisir shrugged. “My guess is that one of the potions you were given managed to replenish your life energy to the extent that you became strong enough to get here. Unfortunately, raising your life energy artificially would just make the charm greedier. It would have been feeding off you at a faster rate. But you needn’t worry. It’s gone now. You will be weaker than usual for a while, but your strength will come back gradually.”
He stood up again. “So now, Miss Garam, if you have no further questions, it’s time for us to open the box.”
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Grrr..... I so want to kill that Sudisir... put my dainty littly paws about his scrawny neck and squeeze...
Really Arka.. fantastic story telling.
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^ Headline:
Part 35: Su-di<=>si-r's story
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“I had befriended one of Drahlian’s followers after he had tried to kill you and Zorbels.
Oh boy I remember that! Now that you have written this into a story, some of Einnols behavior makes sense!
/me begins to put pieces together
I hope Arka is careful, I don't want to lose her to Sudisir! :'(
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^ Headline:
Part 35: Su-di<=>si-r's story
Thanks LigH - fixed.
@ Zorbels: glad to clear things up (you might want to read 'A Student Disappears (http://hydlaa.com/smf/index.php?topic=26739.0)' again for some of the background to this.) [Edit Silly me! I forgot you contributed to this]
@ Lolitra: eheh - keep hold of that sentiment and I'll check in with you in a few chapters time! ;)
Arka
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Part 36: The dilemma
Sudisir threw the key to Arka. She caught it and moved over to the chest. She hoped this would take long enough for Einnol to arrive. She still didn’t trust that Sudisir wouldn’t kill her after he got what he wanted.
She picked up the note she had left for Einnol and turned the key in the lock. The chest lid swung open smoothly.
“I have always admired your people’s ability with mechanical things,” said Sudisir, for once sounding genuine.
Arka took out the package of papers and turned to look at him. She wondered what her mother would think of this, sharing her life’s work with the one who took her life.
Sudisir seemed to read her mind, “I know this is not easy for you,” he said, “I know how it feels to lose loved ones. Maybe it would help if I told you a little more about myself?”
Arka nodded, thinking that anything that delayed matters would help.
“As you know I was sent by my people to track down the Nib… the Stonebreakers to this place. At first, my task was to find them and destroy them. But that proved too difficult. Your people helped build the Stone Labyrinths, and for that, Talad put you under his protection. By the time your work was done, there were Stonebreakers scattered all over the Stalactite.”
“So, I changed my plans. I thought that if I could destroy your culture and language, it would be as good as destroying your race. After all, what is a race without a common culture? It is a book with blank pages. So I started to systematically identify all the sources of your culture. I started with written materials. Books, scrolls and manuscripts. All had to be destroyed. That’s why I joined the university. Oh, it was helpful to learn about the local magick – it has stood me in good stead, even though it is not as powerful as our own ancient ways. But I worked hard to become the librarian. And then, once I was trusted with the safe keeping of your knowledge, I destroyed every reference to the Stonebreakers I could find.
“Then I moved on, from place to place, visiting libraries and book sellers. Some books I bought, others I stole. But they all ended up as ashes. Eventually, all the old texts were removed. But that wasn’t enough. Some old Stonebreakers were writing their memoirs and histories. So I had to… remove a few of them.”
“Including my mother?”
“Ah, yes. Your mother was trying to reintroduce the language. If people started speaking Stonebreaker again they might have started to make sense of some of your old sayings and poems. And then I would have been back to square one. I couldn’t let her live. I don’t expect you to understand that, but I was working under orders. I still am.”
“But why destroy the entire village?”
“It got a little… out of hand.”
Arka stared at him incredulous. “A little out of hand? You sent a hoard of Ulbernauts down the valley and they got a little out of hand?”
“The Ulbernauts weren’t my idea,” replied Sudisir, “I had stirred up a little anti-dwarf sentiment in a group of young dermorians. I had meant them to attack the village and create some mayhem to cover my actions. Then one of them arrived with a whole bunch of crazed Ulbernauts. He’d fed them meat laced with potions. I tried to stop it, but… I am sorry Arka, I didn’t mean your village to be destroyed.”
Arka looked at Sudisir and realised for the second time that he was being genuine.
“I still don’t understand,” she said, “If your aim is to destroy our culture, why would you let me live?”
“The injuries I received from the fall have changed me. Not just physically, but also inside. Oh yes, at first I wanted to kill you and all your friends. I would have, too, if I’d had the strength to do it. But as time went on I remembered the words you said to me before I fell. You said we could re-write the histories from what we both knew.”
Arka’s heart leapt. “You would do that?”
Sudisir looked straight into Arka's eyes. He paused momentarily as if weighing up what he could tell her. When he spoke, his voice was soft and grave. “Arka, the time has come for me to return to my people. If I do not, they will send an army to look for me. My job was to locate the sons of Garwin and destroy them. If I could not, I was to return to lead a host of free elves to come here and finish the job. I have to return. I have to stop them. The only way I know is to try to persuade them that our history is flawed. And only you can help me do that.”
Arka saw again the frankness with which he spoke and realised that together, they were about to divert the course of history.
“We’d better get started then,” she said.
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Typo "Arks'a" bottom paragraph
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Typo "Arks'a" bottom paragraph
Thanks. Fixed
(you can't believe how many times I read this chapter and missed spotting it)
Arka
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Typo "Arks'a" bottom paragraph
Thanks. Fixed
(you can't believe how many times I read this chapter and missed spotting it)
Arka
Seems you enjoy writing alot, do you plan on making this a publication at all, or just leaving it on the internet. It's a great story.
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@ Zorbels: glad to clear things up (you might want to read 'A Student Disappears (http://hydlaa.com/smf/index.php?topic=26739.0)' again for some of the background to this.) [Edit Silly me! I forgot you contributed to this]
/me chuckles
No worries, half the time I can't even remember what I was involved in till people write it out like yourself. I am really enjoying the way your are delivering this story. Look forward to future installments.
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@ Suno Regin:
I'm planning to post it later as PDF, including the runes where they belong - right in the flowing text. :innocent:
If I may. When it's done.
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Seems you enjoy writing alot, do you plan on making this a publication at all, or just leaving it on the internet. It's a great story.
Hrrrrmff, fanfiction doesn't make a good publication for copyright reasons. It's also hard to understand what's going on for people who don't know what the story was based on, since most fanfiction writers don't need to put in as much detail about the settings and characters.
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@ Suno Regin:
I'm planning to post it later as PDF, including the runes where they belong - right in the flowing text. :innocent:
If I may. When it's done.
Uh...what? I don't understand what you just said...
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Then you missed chapter 12 and 13. Where Arka had to include additional pictures to display the "Eiwas" rune.
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No, I just don't know what you're talking about...=/
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Suno's just stupid like that. ;D
He (I think) meant he'd make a thingy that showed the runes or whatever. Just wait and find out, jeez. You deserve some waiting after what I had to go through! >:( Grr. <3
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That isn't much better than my guess...stupid. :P
Anyway, keep it coming Arka (how many more parts left? o.O)
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I send a request for Ligh to take this into pm's so we don't fill up this story thread with useless posts. Arka if maybe you could request a mod to delete the last five post including mine (Skipping Sunos last one seeing as he at least made a comment on the story), I know they will but need the thread starter for the request. I don't think these posts need to be here when there are pm boxes.
/me is just looking out for her favorite thread whether peoples like it or not
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Now I see my mistake: "@ Suno" was wrong, most possibly I meant "@ Garris"... Sorry for some confusion.
:oops:
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Part 37: The rescue party
It was after midnight when Einnol’s party arrived at the lands surrounding the Bronze Doors. A thick fog had descended and they spent a fruitless hour trying to find the destroyed village as visibility failed. Cold and wet, they decided to break from searching until dawn. A niche in the rocks provided a makeshift shelter, although it took a long time to find wood dry enough to make a small fire.
Einnol was desperately worried. Any delay at this stage could prove fatal for Arka. But it would be madness to try and continue in this weather. The area was crossed with crags and the land pocked with potholes. It would be too easy for them to blunder over a cliff. And then they would be no use to anyone. It was too dark and foggy to even find the main path to the fortress. He sat and warmed his hands by the fire as the others slept. He thought about slipping away at first light, but realised he would need Sarine to show him the way.
Maybe Sudsir was holed up in this fog, just as they were. If so, there was a slim chance they could get to Arka before he did. But then what? He had no potions with him, and he was unlikely to be able revive her.
One of the sleeping figures stirred in her sleep and Einnol started. He looked at Andoryn lying under a rough cloak. Although he distrusted ‘magicks’ deeply, he realised that maybe, just maybe, she could help. He had heard her talk many times of her studies, and had seen her showing off her prowess with defensive spells. He was sure she had been studying Crystal Way. He knew very little of the Ways but was sure that Crystal included powerful healing spells. He wondered how adept Andoryn was. If Lolitra was right they would need a powerful boost to Arka’s energy to stop her falling back into a coma.
He had remembered more of Arka’s tale now. She had told him once that Sudisir had been sent to destroy the Stonebreaker culture. That would be the reason Arka had sent them on this mad treasure hunt. She must have known she was about to die. The legacy must refer to her mother’s notebooks. She wouldn’t risk leaving them behind, in case Sudisir got his hands on them. He took out the letter Arka had left them and read it again. ‘Where two planes meet, beneath your feet. Einnol will know what to do when he gets there.’ He wished he did know what to do. What did she mean by ‘two planes’? The levels were sometimes referred to as ‘planes’. Arka had travelled to other levels in her younger days. Did she mean to go down a level? That would be explained by ‘beneath your feet’. But he wouldn’t know what to do here. The winch at Hydlaa was the only way Einnol knew to the lower levels. Was there another way down here? If Arka had shown Sarine this, she would have said something.
He took out the small silver key. Was this a key to the lower level? It seemed impossible that such a small key would hold such importance, although he knew that dwarven locksmiths were immensely skilled at making the most delicate but impenetrable locks.
No, this was a key to a chest. Every Stonebreaker family had a chest in which they stored their valuables – gems, special weapons, papers. They kept them in their cellars usually. In the cellar! Of course! Einnol smacked his hand against his forehead. Why hadn’t he thought of this before? The chest would be in the cellar – beneath your feet. That is where her mother would have kept the notebooks and Arka would have taken them back there. All Sarine had to do was to take Einnol to Arka’s old home. And yes, Einnol now knew exactly what he must do.
As soon as this fog cleared, they would set out for the old forge. He would need to take Sarine, to lead the way, and Andoryn to revive Arka. Maybe Rell would be useful if it came to a fight. But he had to persuade Aerianna and Sarine to fall back – maybe they could be persuaded of the need to keep guard. Einnol nodded to himself. There was nothing else he could do right now. He might as well catch a few hours sleep. The dawn would chase the fog away.
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I can only say one thing. "Wow" You are the best Arka! Please do not make me wait for more.
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Part 38: Revision
Arka and Sudisir worked systematically through her mother’s papers and her own notes. The parts Arka had struggled to translate were made clear by Sudisir’s superior knowledge of the language. Arka had already cross-referenced most of the tales her mother had gathered, making it easier to discard the myths and exaggeration from the facts.
After several hours, with only short breaks for food and drink, they had a full list of issues that were still unresolved. These, they worked through, one by one, each using their own sources to evidence their position and in each case, working carefully to a compromise they could both agree on. Arka had been completely immersed in the task and had not noticed the hours slip away. They had worked through the night and it was starting to get light.
****
Together they had established that the sons of Mim, Garwin and his older brother Fjinn, had fallen out over a woman. She was Syl, daughter of Dúr. Garwin had made a special gift for her, a fine bracelet of gold and silver, set with garnets, but Fjinn had wanted Syl for himself. He spread false rumours against his brother, secretly and subtly so that Dúr would refuse Garwin the suit. Mim took his oldest son’s side in the affair. Garwin had taken this badly to the extent that he had told others that he wanted to see his brother dead. Some said the enmity between the brothers lasted for years; others that it was never resolved. In time, he redeemed himself in Dúr’s eyes and he and Syl were married.
Having been driven from their own lands, the Aoelfrae eventually settled in Erengabord, the home of the Pekdverm (Nibin-Noeg to the elves, or ‘Petty-dwarfs’ as they were known in the language of men). They built settlements on the surface, not knowing that the dwarfs were living in their city under the ground. When the dwarfs emerged for their biennial hunt, the Aoelfrae thought they had come from outside what they now saw as their land, and attacked them. This earned them the name ‘Oskaralfreth’ or ‘dark-elves’.
Whether or not Garwin had been reconciled with his brother, most accounts told of him fighting the elves alongside Fjinn, though whether through brotherly ties, because of loyalty to his father the King, or from self-defence was not clear. The fighting went on for some time, almost a year, and there were heavy losses on both sides. The dwarf council argued with Mim that they should cut their losses and return to their underground city, sealing the entrances against the elves. But Mim was enraged that the elves should take the dwarfs’ hunting lands. He planned a suicidal attack on the elves’ main settlement intended to strike terror into their hearts. Garwin was chosen to lead this attack, with some accounts suggesting that this was because Mim favoured his oldest son, and so was prepared to send Garwin to certain death. Fjinn had offered to go with him but Mim had forbidden this.
Secretly, Garwin planned a way to escape the fighting and enlisted 50 families to his cause. He and four others: his brother in law, Hjalstr, Hanter, a friend of Hjalstr, Hydr, wife of Hanter and Pjet, a friend of Garwin, found a way underground to a new chamber, deep in the rock, where they could build a new home. They hoped to stay there until the fighting was over then return to Erengabord to sue for peace with the elves. They returned and gathered the 50 families together to make their escape under cover of darkness. But Fjinn found out about Garwin’s plan and followed the deserters with a squad of fighters.
There was a brief and bloody battle during which all of but one of Fjinn’s band had been killed. Most accounts told of a final fight between Garwin and his brother, in which Fjinn was slain. One fighter escaped to alert the king of his son’s treachery.
Garwin then took the decision to seal off the entrance to the chamber, which meant that they would never be able to return to Erengabord. This act became known as the Rodfrakkert, or the ‘Great Divide’. The survivors sent out search parties to find another exit from their new home, which now looked like becoming their grave. As supplies ran low they became more and more desperate and some talked openly of overthrowing Garwin, who was now seen by many as unfit to lead them.
Then Garwin stumbled upon a new passage, which led deeper into the earth. This led to the area now known as the Stone Labyrinths. At this point accounts varied widely. The most common view was that the dwarfs arrived in Ylliakum in the Fourth Epoch and helped to expand the Stone Labyrinths and to build the fortress at the Bronze Doors in return for safe passage, under Talad’s blessing and protection, into Yliakum. So impressive was their work that they earned the name ‘Perrakith’ or ‘they who cut rock’ although this was commonly reduced to the term ‘Stonebreakers’.
****
Finally, both Arka and Sudisir were satisfied with the history they had compiled. In particular, it was now clear that Garwin had left Erengabord before Sudisir’s father had been murdered. Each point was referenced to the texts of the accounts recorded by Arka’s mother and the Aoelfrae chronicles, which Sudisir had memorised. Arka had learned many new terms in the old tongue of the Perrakithor, and had been busy adding these to her dictionary.
Sudisir made ready to leave, having committed the new histories to memory. He and Arka embraced, marking the end of the long and bitter division, both between the two and their peoples.
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oh heck, that was just brilliant!!!
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With each chapter you get better and better. This one was really fantasic. Reading the history as you wrote it makes it feel like it is part of my history too. So very real.
I am very impressed.
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A well written addition. I like it. However... you have to be -very- careful when writting about the history of Yliakum. All races but Lemur, Kran, and Ynwnn came through Portals. No race came from the surface, or has ever seen the surface.
I know it says some may have come from the surface on the main site, but that was added by a proofreader without permission, and went a long time without being noticed. It has been fixed in some places, but not others. It will be fixed everywhere eventually when someone finds the time to go back and rewrite that part. Settings has been very busy lately. ;)
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... came through Portals. No race came from the surface, or has ever seen the surface.
You mean it like "teleportation portals"? With an origin in their distinct home worlds? ... Then we might agree with "surface on their home worlds", or "surface" as synonym for the home worlds?
That to be discussed elsewhere...
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Arka! I'm so glad I've had the privilege of reading this, you've got Sarine's character down so well, I'm truly impressed. I'm on holiday at the moment, so I won't be in game for at least another month. Can't wait for the rest of the story!
:love: Eliseth
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Oh woman you are good! \\o// The amount of history you have written is just amazing. It all seems so realistic and like this really took place. You did a wonderful job with this last chapter. Yays! Can't wait for more.
::| Please tell me theres more....?
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Phew!
That seems to have stirred up a lot of interest. I guess my reading of the settings (being quite a long time ago, as I have been playing 3-4 years now) must have led me to believe that the Stonebreakers arrived later through the Stone Labyrinths and therefore from the surface somewhere. I guess I need to do some more reading. UTMs comments made me think about writing an alternative ending - I might still do that.
@ Zorbels: Enjoy your holiday - and yes there is more to come.
I have also had lengthy PMs from Nilrem that have made me think about Sudisir's apparent change in heart. Maybe it was a bit too sudden?
However, I will press on with it.
Arka
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Part 39: An ambush
Sudisir opened his bag and took out a small package, wrapped in leaves and a delicate brown bottle. “Here is some Elvin bread and a potion to help build your strength. You will need this for your journey home.”
Arka took them and thanked him. She then handed Sudisir one of her axes. “I want you to take this. It may help you on your way.”
“You would divide your axes? I have never known a dwarf part willingly with their axe. I am honoured.” He bowed to Arka. “But I have already stayed too long. Fare well, Arka Garam, daughter of Embra and Golthart. May your shadow never lengthen.”
With that he started to climb the steps and threw open the trapdoor, filling the cellar with the early morning rays of the crystal.
As he stepped onto the top step, there was a blinding flash and Sudisir fell backwards into the cellar, showered in sparks.
“A fireball!” he shouted, “Get down Arka! There will be more.”
“Got him!” came a familiar voice. Arka recognised it as her trainee mage, Andoryn.
“It’s all right, Sudisir. They are friends.”
She held up the burning candle. Sudisir lay on the floor. She could see that the side of his face was bleeding and his right arm was badly burned. “Here,” she said, opening the bottle he had given her, “Drink this. I will go and stop them.”
Quickly she made her way up the steps. Pausing at the top, she shouted out, “It’s alright. Put down your weapons. I’m in no danger.”
“’Tis a trap, “ she heard Einnol say, “Get ready Andoryn.”
Arka peered over the top of the steps. Einnol, Andoryn and Rell were crouched in a clump of bushes, not forty paces away.”
“Arka!” shouted Andoryn, standing up, but Einnol pulled her down again. “No! ‘tis a trap. He has her under his control.”
Arka climbed out of the trapdoor, her hands in the air. “Look, it’s fine. Sudisir means no harm.”
“He had your axe, Arka,” shouted Einnol.
“I gave it to him.”
“See, Andoryn, it is a trap – Arka would never give away her axes.”
Arka took a step towards the others and they stood up backing off. Arka had not seen Sudisir behind her, holding a black glyph in the air. He called out to them, “Put down the glyph. It’s no use against this.”
Einnol froze, immediately recognising the high whine of Sudisir’s voice. He put his hands to his head, muttering to himself, “No, no, make them go away. I will not do it, not again.”
For a moment the others were startled and turned to face him. Sudisir saw his opportunity and made a quick movement away from the trapdoor. But Rell had spotted him.
“Get ready Andoryn,” he shouted to Andoryn, and she fingered the red glyph nervously. Arka was too close to Sudisir. If she fired at this range, she could kill them both. Einnol was kneeling on the ground, his head still in his hands.
“Put the glyph away, Sudisir, and let Arka go,” shouted Rell.
Arka turned to look at Sudisir. She tried to make out his expression. “Run! She hissed. Run, while you have the chance.”
Sudisir looked the left, his only chance of exit. He would have to run along one of the two remaining walls enclosing the ruined forge. He wouldn’t make in before Andoryn fired another fire ball. He kept the glyph held tightly in case he needed to defend himself. Sudisir took hold of Arka’s shoulders. “Sorry, but I need to use you as a shield,” he whispered, and Arka nodded.
Together, they edged along the wall as the others approached slowly, spreading out.
“He’s getting away!” shouted Rell. They started to run and Sudisir let go of Arka’s shoulders. A white menki appeared from the bushes to Arka’s left and she saw a flash of steel. Pushing Sudisir, she dived in front of him and took the dagger in the shoulder, a deep red stain spreading across the white silk. A burning pain spread down her arm and Arka sank to her knees.
Sudisir took to his heels. Andoryn saw her chance and raised the red glyph, holding it aloft in both hands.
“No!’ shouted Arka with the last of her strength, but it was too late. The glyph glowed white and Andoryn dropped it with a yell of pain before it shattered into a thousand pieces, with a deafening roar. The shock wave blew everyone off their feet and sent Sudisir sprawling onto the grass. He picked himself up and ran limping towards the Bronze Doors. Everyone except Einnol lay dazed on the ground, too stunned to move. Arka had collapsed on the stone floor of the forge, a pool of deep red blood forming around her shrunken body.
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OH NO!!!! :o
More more more!!!!!! \\o//
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As I look around the room I see anticipation in the eyes of all the people gathered because of Arka’s announcement of another chapter of her story to be read.
Akra walks in the room and we all watch as she carries her well worn book to her chair in front of the room, sits and starts to read.
We all stare in total awe as the story goes on. We are completely captivated. As you finish reading the chapter, close your book and look up at us you see how we are enthralled by your writing and smile. No one in room moves or talks, we just sit and thinking of what we just heard, all of us feel so part of the story that it seems real. Then suddenly we all rise and applaud loudly.
Akra, to say amazing, remarkable, stupendous, awesome and grand is not enough. I know I feel honored you have written such a wonderful story for me to read. Thank you for this great gift.
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Arka. Join Settings and you will know -exactly- when the Stonebreakers (and Hammers) came through their Portal, and even when [censored], leading to [censored] in the [censored]! That is just the tip of the story, though. Wait till you find out about how they [censored]. Now that is a sad tale.
Come to the Dark side.
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No Arka! Don't join settings! Devs can't head guilds!
Now, I'm going to sit here until you post the next installment. So you'd better post quickly, because if I die of starvation, it's your fault.
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Part 40: Between life and death
Arka tried to move, but she was too weak.
“Ye have lost a lot of blood. Try to be still.”
It was Einnol’s voice and Arka managed a weak smile, “You are alive, Einnol I thought…”
“Hush, hush. I am fine.”
Sarine appeared by his side and Arka turned her head.
“And you Sarine. I am sorry to have got you into this.”
Sarine tried to smile but her concern showed in her face, “Don’t apologise, Arka. Try not to speak. You will be fine,” she said unconvincingly.
Sarine looked at Einnol. “The others are recovering but Sudisir got away. I’ve bandaged Andoryn’s hands, but they are very badly hurt. She can’t use her crystal glyph.”
Einnol frowned. He was kneeling over Arka, holding the wound in her shoulder together, the knife blade still embedded. “I cannot take this out ‘till we are ready to heal ye,” he said.
Arka murmered and Einnol moved his head close to her face to hear.
“In the cellar – a brown bottle”
Einnol nodded. “Quick as you can Sarine – in the cellar – look for a brown bottle.”
Sarine ran down the steps and returned moments later with the bottle already uncorked. She went to administer the potion to Arka but Einnol stopped her. “No! There is only enough for one – give it to Andoryn.” Sarine looked aghast. She could see Arka’s need was far greater.
“Do it!” shouted Einnol and she ran across to Andoryn, not daring to argue.
Andoryn took the bottle and drank what was left of the potion. Immediately she felt the life return to her hands.
“Quick Andoryn! Over here, now!” Einnol was doing his best to staunch the wound, but Arka’s lips were pale and she was already unconscious.
Andoryn fumbled for the glyph and muttered the words. Arka and Einnol were bathed in swirling white-blue light, and the colour returned slightly to Arka’s face.
“Get ready for a second one,” said Einnol, “I will try to get the blade out.”
“Not yet,” said Andoryn, “I need to build up my strength up again.”
Arka’s breathing was fast and shallow and Einnol was not convinced she would make it.
“Can ye not hurry?”
“No, I need to have the strength to cast it.”
“But I am losing her. Ye have to do it now.”
“If it fails, she will die before I can manage a third. You have to wait.”
Einnol could feel the life slipping out of Arka’s body. “Hold on Arka, hold on! Do not leave us.” Tears were streaming down his face, blurring his vision and dampening his beard.
“No! Ye cannot go!” he called out in anguish.
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sniff.... sniff... Lolitra wipes away the tears.
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Part 41: Reconciliation
Arka opened her eyes and saw a bright blue sky above. It was midday and the crystal light felt warm on her face. She put her hand to her left shoulder. The gown was ripped and caked with blood, but the skin below it felt smooth. Her arm ached but she could move it.
She turned her head to see her friends in a huddle. Sarine caught her eye and ran to her side. She knelt down on the stone floor and stroked Arka’s hair. “Thank Laanx you are alive. I was so worried about losing you.”
Arka smiled. “What’s going on over there?” she asked.
“They are going to track down Sudisir. Einnol has been acting awfully strange since he saw him. He says it is essential that we capture him.”
“No!” said Arka, alarmed. If they went after Sudisir all their work would be lost. “I need to talk with Einnol. Now!”
Sarine jumped up and brought Einnol over.
“Thank you Sarine. Could you leave us a moment?” asked Arka.
Sarine looked at Einnol, who nodded. She went back to the group who were still discussing tactics.
“He is headed up to the Bronze Doors, Arka. We can alert the Sunshine Squad. They will find him.”
“No, Einnol, you must let him go.”
Einnol looked at her. “He still has control over you,” he said, “like he once controlled my mind. We have to capture him to release you.”
“Einnol, he has no more control over any of us. He is going back to his people. We will not see him again.”
“We cannot take the risk.”
Arka’s heart sank. How was she going to convince Einnol she was not entranced? Then a thought struck her.
“My mother’s notebooks. In the cellar. Get them for me, I need to show you something.”
Einnol disappeared and came back shortly with a bundle of papers. Arka had him hold each one up in turn until he found the page Sudisir had returned to her.
“Good. Now, have you got the scrap of parchment I sent to Sarine in the letter?”
Einnol nodded. He reached inside his pocket and fished it out.
“Get Andoryn. She needs to see this.”
Einnol stood up and called Andoryn over.
Arka held the page in her right hand. “Andoryn, you take that small piece of paper from Einnol. Good. Now Einnol, you know where the scrap of paper came from?”
Einnol nodded miserably. He didn’t want to be reminded of this.
“Well, this is the page you took.”
His eyes widened.
“You will be pleased to know that Sudisir was the one who made you steal it. He gave me this back after he told me what had happened. If he had meant to control me he would have kept this. It contains the charm he used.”
Andoryn looked at the page in Arka’s hand and nodded. “Arka’s right, Einnol – this is ancient magick.”
“Now Andoryn,” said Arka, “Hold the piece of paper Einnol gave you to the page, near the bottom where it is torn.”
Andoryn did so. As the scrap of paper touched the page, there was a faint hissing as the tear repaired itself. The page was whole again.
“How?” asked Einnol.
Andoryn looked at him. “I told you in the Library. The books have their own energy. This means they can repair themselves, although I’ve never seen it before.”
“I guess ye are right Arka,” agreed Einnol, “But we should still try to find the fiend.”
Arka dropped the page and grabbed Einnol’s arm. “You must let him go. We have revised our history, Einnol, we have reconciled our differences. He needs to tell his people that we are no longer enemies. If he does not return they will send an army here to destroy us.”
“We can defend ourselves. Like we did against the Dwarvesbane.”
“This will not be like Dwarvesbane. These are Oskaralfreth. Dark-elves. Their Ways are much more powerful than ours. Nothing could stop them. Except the truth.”
Einnol thought about this. “And they will believe Sudisir, when he returns to them?”
“Of all the Oskaralfreth, Sudisir has the greatest reason to see us dead. Our ancestors killed his father. That’s why he volunteered to come here. When he tells his people they do not need to pursue us, they will believe him. If they don’t, well, we will have to face that. But if you stop him, they will send their army and we will perish. We have to give him a chance to try.”
Einnol considered this. Then without another word he stood up and returned to the others.
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Part 42: Epilogue
After a few days, Arka was well enough to travel. The two menkis had gone on ahead to rescue Erelenga and report to Lolitra. Rell had left with Sarine as she needed to get back to her boys.
Aerianna found Arka, tidying her parents’ grave.
“Are you all right, Arka?”
Arka nodded. “Where is Einnol?”
“He is with Andoryn. They are taking a look around.”
“How is he? I was worried that meeting Sudisir might have affected him.”
Aerianna smiled. “You needn’t worry, Arka. Einnol is a lot stronger than you think. It was just the shock of hearing his voice, I think. He seems to be back to normal again.”
Arka nodded. “I was amazed he let Andoryn use her magick. He’s normally so sceptical about all that.”
“We were all surprised. To start with, he tried to make out that you were just ill and he needed to help you. Sarine and I were to keep guard, away from the forge in case there was any trouble. It wasn’t very convincing. Rell managed to get it out of him that Sudisir was after you. We thought he had killed you, Arka. It was terrible.”
“I thought he wanted to kill me too,” agreed Arka, “But in the end…”
“Well, we all thought Sudisir was likely to be armed with magick, so Andoryn argued that it would be better to disarm him with a spell before Einnol led an attack. But when Einnol lost his nerve, it took us all by surprise.”
“Poor Einnol, it must have been a real shock hearing that voice again. He must have thought he was losing his mind.”
“Honestly, Arka, he seems fine now,” said Aerianna. She fell silent for a while, just looking at the gravestone with the carved runes. “I’m sorry about what happened here,” she said at length.
“So am I.”
“I still don’t understand how you can forgive him, Sudisir, I mean.”
“Neither do I,” Arka smiled, “But sometimes you have to put your personal feelings aside. Greater issues were at stake.”
She re-arranged the posy of flowers in the earthenware jar and made sure it was firmly planted in the ground.
“You made a good job of the headstone,” said Aerianna, feeling a little uncomfortable.
Arka looked up, surprised. “That’s odd. Sudisir said something very similar. He said I’d made a good job repairing it.”
She stood up and walked around the grave. Running her fingers along the smooth surface of the stone, she was amazed to find faint cracks running along the face. They had been expertly repaired, so that the join was almost invisible.
“Look at this, Aeri. The stone has been repaired. I wonder who did it.”
“Aerianna took a close look. It looks like its been done by magick. You could hardly tell. Nothing is as it seems.”
Arka didn’t answer. Aerianna’s words had opened up old memories. Her, floating in a sphere of light in the Temple in Hydlaa; balloons and streamers at her birthday party; and a hunt, many, many years ago, with a tefusang fur beard that kept coming unstuck. And most of all, a good friend who had always been there for her. A very special dwarf, strong in will and adept in the Ways. And now she knew who had repaired the headstone, of its crack, its ‘frakkert’ you could say. Just as she and Sudisir had, she hoped, repaired the Rodfrakkert. And that, too, was a kind of magick.
It would soon be time for her to return to Hydlaa, a journey she had made many times before. She looked up at the brightening sky, tears springing to her eyes. “Thank you Pinante,” she said, “wherever you are. Garamdor, Eldamart, garamdor.”
END
Arka put down her quill and looked at the pile of papers stacked neatly on her desk. She wondered what to do next. The tale was finished, but a new chapter in her life was beginning. Maybe a walk would do her good. Now her strength was returning, she might risk a hunt in a day or two. She opened the shutters of her study window and gazed out over the smoking chimneys of East Hydlaa. It was a clear, brisk morning, and the hills looked so close you could almost touch them. Why wait another day?
She opened her desk drawer and took out the knife Zorbels had given her, Crossing the room, she carefully lifted her Great Axe from its mountings above the fire, and briefly wondered what had happened to its twin. She hoped that Sudisir would keep it to remember his time in Yliakum. More than ever, she hoped there would be no more Dwafish blood spilled. Pulling her cloak around her she clattered down the steps and into the cold morning.
"Watch out, Trepors," she said to herself, "Arka's back!"
[To all of you who made it to the end: A very happy holiday and a glorious new year!]
Arka
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Great work Arka! \\o//
But now I have nothing to look forward too...unless Arka's Return 4 is planned for the future? :D
Merry Christmas and keep up the good work! I expect to be told the name of the book you publish.
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Arka,
I was so looking forward to the end of your story and now that it is done it brings tears to my eyes because it is done. Thank you again for allowing me to take this journey. It was wonderful. Honestly I cannot say enough great things about it. When you do get published I certainly want to read the book because I am sure it will be excellant. You have a great talent.
I hope to see you in game soon.
May you and your family be blessed during this holiday season and thoughout the year to come.
Leama.
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Thanks to Aerianna, Suvok and Tuathanach, Erelenga cured his foot after they brought him from the crushed cave in a far west corner of the rock wall back to the abandoned village. Stubborn and in a confusing concern as he was, with the potion from the scouts of Print, he climbed in there again, to look if Arka returned here where he showed her once the signs of a great exodus. But she must have walked in a slightly different direction from the tree where he was found.
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Deep in darkness hidden from the eyes above, a black-cloaked figure crouches unmoving. His eyes stare upwards, filled with anger and hate. They are up there, he knows. They are waiting. They will suffer. The Temple had not protected him. Laanx had abandoned him. They would all suffer. His new master would assure that. Oh yes... they would all suffer.
His hands clench, bringing forth the clink and grind of small stones being rubbed together. His gaze drops down to his scared fingers and what they hold. Five stones. Five useless, black stones. Another thing for those above to suffer for. They would scream in agony. As if cued by that thought, a spasm of pain seizes him. Not a whimper escapes his mouth as his body writhes in pain. In his mind, he no longer feels it. The spasm stops, and for a single brief moment, he is no longer the black-cloaked figure. For that tiny fraction of a moment, a very pretty Diabloia with red hair crouches in his place... then is gone. He is once again himself. With the sound of burning parchment, the black cloak begins to crumble away from his hunger-thin body. In a few more moments, the fabric becomes only a pile of dust at his feet. Pure shock paints his face as he stands nearly naked on the cold stone. His clothing under the cloak had long since rotted into shreds. A slow smile spreads across his face as he looks down the tunnel.
"The time comes swift, my master. The old powers weaken," he speaks to what he sees at the end. He looks down at the five black stones again. "Even the gods shall weep."
[[Most of you who read this will not know what it means. For those that do... Enjoy.]]
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Finally I made it to the end! :love: I LOVE every word you wrote, every scene you set and every emotion I went though reading this! I hope that your writing stories hasn't come to an end. I just love the way you write. Thanks for allowing me to be apart of your wonderful stories Arka and I do hope there will be more in the future!
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[Yay UtM!]
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I finished a PDF version of the whole story. When approved, I might publish it at some filehoster, or on my own webspace...
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Please let me know when it is approved, I want a copy.
Thank you LigH for all your hard work in doing this.
I still think this is the best story I ever read here on the forums. My hat is off to you Arka. I hope to see you in game again.
Leama.