Arka's Return 3: The Reckoning

[Lolitra, Celorrim Purrty Twins]

Oh Leama - you have captured Lolitra so well... congratulations.... and even more praise for such a wonderfully tantilising story.

[Arka]

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.

[Arka]

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.

[Suvok]

I love your writing, Arka. I'm hooked! Quick, post the next chapter! 

Suvok

[Leama]

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.

[Arka]

[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.

[Arka]

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.

[Leama]

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.

[Lolitra, Celorrim Purrty Twins]

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.

[Arka]

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.

[Arka]

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.

[Arka]

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.

[Arka]

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.

[Lolitra, Celorrim Purrty Twins]

eeeek... what can I say? what can I do... Lolitra will be devistated she let you get out, just to die... 

[Arka]

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.