Chapter 3
The night was long, but morning did come as always, only the skies were a dreary gray and the air was crisp and cool. Rain would certainly fall this day, and the four companions left the invigorating city of Crystndale with dread in their hearts. Their travels would be long and they knew Tyrell would push as far as he could into the night. The promise of rain promised an uncomfortable journey. This was the least of worries however, for news had come in the night that spies spotted draconian not far from the hills of Rohinia. That placed them within ten miles of Edgewood. That was too near for Tyrell’s liking.
Caution was the objective now. To make haste as safely as possible meant they all had to be alert. Odin took the lead, running ahead of the others, using his keen sense of smell to detect any threat of danger. Tyrell stayed just in front of Galedian and Zimn. They traveled on foot in the safety of the forest away from the open and watchful eyes.
A small fishing village on the Misty River was their destination. There they would purchase boats and make their way down stream to Dagger Port. Tyrell felt travel by water would be safer even though the Misty River was a fierce and swift moving rage of nature.
He assured the others that it would be trouble free most of the way. Only three areas of the river worried him; the first, the rocks where spring creek branched off, the second, the white cap rapids where Blackberry creek joined the Misty, and third, and probably the worst, is where the Misty cuts through the hills. The river narrows there for a long way and the banks are steep and rocky. Hardly a place at all would they find to pull the boats from the water.
No, they were not a cheerful bunch today as they jogged along the old forgotten trail just inside the wood line. At times, the path disappeared. Over ran with vegetation from lack of use, they would have to pick their way through briars and vines until they discovered the path again. Their only rest was to walk for a bit to catch their breath before continuing the strenuous pace, if they were to reach the village by mid-afternoon.
Galedian held her own well, but Tyrell took care to move at a pace she could maintain. He and Zimn were no strangers to this punishment and he was well aware that she was no veteran. Odin’s stamina encouraged her though, and gave her the will to press on. About every thirty minutes or so, he would return with news of the path ahead, after a short while he would run ahead again scouting the area vigorously. Each time he did, she found it in her to push forward.
The day carried on, but with the sun hidden behind the ever-darkening clouds, Galedian could not tell what time of day it was getting to be. “Tyrell, how late in the day do you think it is? We’ve been on the road now for what seems hours.” She asked, taking advantage of conversation while they walked now.
He produced a piece of dried meat from one of his pockets. “It is not long past noon. I, as you are I’m sure, am hungry.” He tore a piece from the strip with his teeth. “But we eat lightly as we go this day.” He said between chews.
“It won’t be long, a couple of hours maybe, and we’ll be there.” Zimnefin said, trying to cheer her up. “Once we get there, there’ll be time to rest and eat while the boats are prepared.” He added as he bit into an apple.
Galedian’s stomach growled quietly at the sight of the two of them snaking. Having eaten a small breakfast, a real solid meal is what she wanted, but something was better than nothing was. She searched around in one of the small sacks she carried and found a delicious golden yellow pear. “Besides on the Misty river, where exactly is there?” She asked before sinking her teeth into the sweet fruit.
“Just a small fishing village.” Tyrell answered her.
“Small indeed, maybe a hundred men, few woman and even less children. Many drifters and thugs hold up there. Mind what you say while we are there, they are suspicious of strangers and are not the sort to be trusted.” Zimn informed her.
Galedian choked as she swallowed the juicy morsel. Her imagination began to run wild with possibilities and she started to feel a little uneasy with the idea of visiting a village made up mostly of rugged- lawless men. Unconsciously she closed the space between herself and Tyrell. Although she was no longer the young girl who started this adventure months ago, the woman she had become was not so foolish as to dismiss the possible dangers.
Thack-thack, the sound of many hammers bouncing off oak boards echoed in the air with the all too familiar ring of construction. Saws ripped and chewed wood, hatchets chipped away at logs. The people of the small fishing village were hard at work reinforcing the gates and walls that surrounded their home. Some were in the process of boarding up the windows on their homes and businesses.
A big, burly scruff of a man with a round belly swung his tree trunk like arm fiercely. The hammer smashed the head of the nail, sending it to sink below the surface of the wooden plank used to brace the door to his Inn, The Empty Barrel. At one time, the large windows in the front of the Inn were meant for a weary eye to keep watch. Now they were considered as a way in to the Empty Barrel and were heavily boarded.
Several rough looking men worked quickly tying supports together with heavy rope. The thick, long round poles were to be used to strengthen the skywalk along the protective wall of the village. The smaller ones were marked and notched about every eighteen inches down the full length. They were then paired and smaller cuts of round sticks about two feet long joined them. They were nailed into place, and then tied tight with rope. Workers then painted the ropes over with a yellowish sticky sap to prevent rot. The then raised the finished ladders against the platform and secured at the top and bottom.
The men of the village seemed as if they had masters cracking whips behind them. There was not much talk between them and no words were exchanged when the barmaids and prostitutes brought water to them to drink. What wives there were, were busy cooking and preparing meals for the lot of them.
These people, who usually were caught up in their own lives and business, who were rarely concerned for others unless something was to be gained, were now driven to lay differences and selfish ways aside. Something dreary, frightful, something menacing had scarred them enough to come together for a common cause. The threat of nightfall, the invisible master that pushed the inexorable pace at which they worked, was nearing quickly.
“Four o’clock! Four o’clock!” A young boy, not in his teenage years yet shouted. “Father ‘tis four o’clock, the boat from Galvin Port comes.” He called out as he darted around the busy workers towards his father who was cutting spears out of staves.
He dropped what he was doing and rushed towards the boy. “Dorin…” He shouted at the boy. “Dorin- what in the abyss are you doing her lad? Where is your older brother?” He questioned with concern in a stern tone.
“Tallas is preparing to unload the goods from the boat. He sent me to fetch you Pa.” The youngster rattled off.
A look of reprieve softened his worried features. “Ah lad, I had told your brother to call upon me, I did not mean for you to be sent here. Now hurry home to your mother.” He directed, in a fatherly tone with a hint of a smile. He patted the boy on the shoulder and spun him around. “Now be quick about it I don’t want you out and about.” He called after the boy, spurring his sulking walk into a run.
The man returned to his workstation where the others looked to him in question.
“Thaleus, you and Daven go to the docks and help Tallas with the boat.” He ordered one of the men with a hatchet.
“Just the three of us? Twill take into the night.” Thaleus retorted.
“Just do it Thaleus. We can not spare any more men right now!” He argued, and then returned to his own task.
Thaleus leaned in near to him so he could better hear over the noise. “Jarrath, I will not be out when it gets dark.” He hissed as his eyes narrowed.
“My son is there as well, I will try to send help before nightfall, Thaleus, now go. That boat will not wait nor will it unload its self.” Jarrath steamed through clenched teeth. Thaleus jerked up with a snap and glared over his shoulder. “Daven!” He shouted. “C’mon, we’ve got a shipment to unload.” Then he stomped off mumbling and cursing to his quiet assistant.
With but a few hours of the day left, they were hard pressed to finish the preparations for attack. Ever watching eyes scanned the tree line, the rocks, and the fields. Suddenly a scout cried out an alarm. “There are three figures in the distance heading this way.” He called down below. He held in his hand a looking glass, similar to the ones used on seafaring vessels.
“How far?” A man inquired who was wearing a hat similar to a tricorn and a black overcoat with a tall collar that hid his face in shadow.
“Just off the forest’s edge, ‘bout a mile. They look to be human.” The scout said.
“Keep your eyes on them, let me know if there’s anything suspicious.” The man in black ordered in a cold raspy voice. He spun on the heels of his black leather boots to take his leave. “I will prepare a warm welcome for them.” He breathed under his breath as he walked away.
Odin rejoined Tyrell as they walked down the subtle slope that flowed gradually downward then flattened out near the village and onward towards the river. “Tyrell, there is a foul stench of death on the wind.” The large silver wolf growled in a deep voice.
The large knight squint his keen eyes as he scanned the tundra ahead. The large wooden barricade like wall that surrounded the fishing village was now in sight. It looked completely defenseless from the outside, other than the wall. He could not see anything unusual to cause alarm, but his numinous senses detected something that disturbed him.
“Look on the wall, there and over there and there by the gates. Scouts.” Zimn said pointing as his Elven sight distinguished the shapes on top of the wooden structure. Galedian and Odin unfortunately could not see detail from such a great distance, but Tyrell’s dragon lineage gave him sight even better than that of the elves.
“Yes, and they have spy-glasses.” Tyrell stated as he looked where the elf had pointed out.
“Not much of a defense. That wall almost seems like a huge target in the middle of the open.” Zimn said smugly.
“Yea. Something a little fire could take care of in no time.” Tyrell replied with dismay. He sprang onto a huge rock that jutted from the ground. With ease, he made his way across the uneven surface and jumped from the backside to another then back to the grassy surface.
“These rocks are a field of obstacles.” Galedian pointed out as she followed Tyrell. “A large… war troop, would never… be able to hold ranks or maneuver equipment in all-thiss.” She breathed heavily as she jumped from another large layered rock.
Tyrell and Zimn exchanged glances as her apparent complaining about the terrain held more truth than she realized. Tyrell’s mouth curled on one side as he gave a half smile. “Excellent observation.” He said, praising his wife.
Feeling slightly foolish for complaining, Galedian carried on as if the observation was as she had intended. Her knees bent and flexed and she was in the air again leaping to the ground.
Shwipp! As soon as her feet hit the ground, they shot from beneath her sending her to fall with a hard thud right on her rump. “S**t!” She exclaimed. A sharp throbbing erupted on the right side of her buttock. She leaned forward and pulled a small stone from beneath herself. As she did, a small droplet of water struck her face. Her eyes rolled into the back of her head. “Great!” she cursed.
Before she could start to get up, Tyrell was there with his hand extended. “Are you all right?” His voice was concerned but his expression was blank.
“Yes…I’m fine.” She said accepting his hand. Her face contorted with the ache in her thigh as her muscles flexed to support her weight. Suddenly a strange metallic taste was in her mouth.
“Are you sure?” He asked. His eyes narrowed with scrutiny as he searched her features for a lie.
“Is anything broke?” Zimn asked as he approached.
She sucked the moisture from the inside of her cheek and spat it on the ground. It was red with blood and swirled as it mixed with the raindrops on the stone. “Yes…Just bit my tongue, that’s all.” She took a step forward and held her breath with the ache. “And hurt my pride it would seem.” She added as she rubbed her butt.
“C’mon lets get to an Inn and get out of this rain.” Tyrell said. He gave her one more look to insure she was all right, and then turned towards the village in an effortless stride as if he could go on for days. He did however slow his pace to give Galedian time to walk the stiffness from her muscles. Zimn and Odin slowly moved ahead of them putting a few yards between them.
The raindrops fell lightly in a slow steady drizzle. The solid gray sky seemed frozen in time, unmoving and the wind was without breath, leaving the air still and cool. Their clothes began to drip finally. Saturated with the cool water, Galedian’s clothes began to slow her down and her limbs began to grow weary. With each movement, her wet clothes clung to her body and pulled tight against her efforts.
Tyrell and Zimnefin were starting to show the toll the rain was taking on them as well. Their movements were becoming sluggish. Odin’s fur bristled and beads of water clung to every hair. After a few minutes, he would shake. His whole body twisting from side to side would sling the water from his beautiful coat and he would be dry again. The rain did not bother him. He was at home in the elements.
Galedian watched as Tyrell’s shirt clung to the muscles in his back. Feelings stirred deep inside her that she had come to know and welcome. She felt her skin warm despite the cool air. She remembered when she first started to fall for the man.
Finally, the terrain changed to a more level and less rocky trek as they neared the village. Unexpectedly, Zimn stopped dead in his tracks. “Tyrell!” He called to his friend without looking back. “Take a look.”
Tyrell moved from behind him to his side just a step in front of the concerned Elf. His hand flinched towards the hilt of his sword. His cold blue eyes narrowed at the horror before them. The large fearless knight stepped forward, drawing his blade forth as he did. Cautiously he closed in, ready to attack.
Galedian held her hand above her eyes to prevent the blinding rain from getting in them as she watched her husband stalk his prey. Out of nowhere, a foul, gut wrenching stench filled the air. Galedian gagged at the horrid odor and quickly dropped her hand to cover her mouth and nose. “By the gods…What is that?” She choked.
Zimn had a look of disgust on his face. His upper lip curled with a frown and his eyes moistened. “It is coming from the draconian.” He replied. They both stood motionless as Tyrell continued to gain ground on the unaware creature. Galedian’s heart pounded beneath her breast, as he came to be about ten foot away from his target.
Suddenly, he paused. “It’s dead.” He said realizing the draconian was not breathing. The creature hung on a pike that ran upward from the ground, through its rectum, and out the back of its neck. More than thirty arrows filled its body. Gathering no one heard him the first time, he called out again, only this time louder, “its dead!”
The three hesitant companions sprinted towards him. “Oh my-ooo. That’s gross.” Galedian said, appalled by the sight. “Why would they do something like this?” She asked as she scrunched up her face and stared at the creature completely repulsed.
“They’ve hung a trophy for all to see.” Zimn said with distaste. He did not approve of such tactics, even the mutilated display of this vile creature.
“It’s a warning.” Tyrell said under his breath.
“What?” Zimn and Galedian asked at the same time, confused.
Tyrell stepped closer to the creature. “They did this as a warning, an attempt to detour other draconians from attacking. Clearly it tells of the fate that will befall any that do.” He raised his sword high above him.
“What are you going to do?” Galedian asked, startled.
“I’m going to cut it down.” Tyrell answered slightly annoyed, but not by her. It was more for what the villagers had done. “If any draconians see this, they won’t be intimidated. They’ll be pissed off! They will attack, destroy, devour and leave this town in ruins.”
He raised his sword again, and as he did...swoosh. He spun on his heel and slashed in a downward stroke with the speed of lightening. The crossbow bolt aimed for the pole, split down the length. At the clicking sound of the trigger, Zimn spun and stepped to the side to face their attacker. His bow was up and an arrow sang through the air.
“Arrgh!” A man screamed out in pain as the elf’s steal point burrowed through his hand and into his crossbow just behind the trigger, preventing him from sending of his shot. Galedian was not as quick but her bow, Valleir, was at the ready now, an arrow resting against the tight string and aimed well.
“I am Tyrell Nacar. We are not your enemy!” Tyrell shouted quickly before things got out of hand.
“Hold!” A shout came from behind the wall. The man in the black highway-mans cloak pushed his way through the twenty armed men at the gate. “Open the gates.” He ordered as he neared the eighteen foot tall, double doors. The men looked at him confused, and they hesitated to follow his command.
“They were going to cut down the beast…Fenedwin! Clearly a friend of theirs.” A man of athletic build said.
Fenedwin eyed the man curiously. The weapon he carried-a long double-edged sword, had a unique hilt. One like the soldiers of Jordän carried, which suggested, either he was once a solider or he stole it from one. His clothes were not of a soldier. They were custom made. Fenedwin concluded he was a mercenary or an adventurer seeking treasure. “If this man is who he claims, the lot of you would be better off to let him in and stay on his good side.” He said glaring at the man unblinking.
Meanwhile Tyrell and his companions held their pose. “We come to purchase boats; our business takes us down river.” Tyrell called out. A lock of wet hair fell across one of his eyes as the rain dripped from the end of his nose, but he did not move.
“It could be a trap.” Another man claimed, uneasy with the growing tension.
“We should at least talk to them. We are many to the three of them.” Fenedwin suggested. He glanced around at each of the armed men. “If it is not Tyrell Nacar, then kill them for all I care.” He paused to let his offer sink in. “If he is who he claims, and you attack, no god will save you.”
The companions outside the gates held their ground even as more archers appeared on top of the wall. Zimn felt his anger challenge his tongue to be still. Galedian concentrated on a spell as her lips prepared to recite the incantation. Odin hung back hidden among the rocks, which was customary when they came to unfriendly towns. Finally Zimn snapped. “We mean only to pass!” He shouted sharply.
“Go ahead, open the gate.” The man who opposed Fenedwin said. Four of the other men struggled with all of their strength as they pushed the massive iron bar up and out of the clasps. “But you, Fenedwin, go out and talk to them.” He added.
Fenedwin flashed him a smile. “I don’t have a problem with that. Why don’t you join me?” He challenged the obnoxious man. “Unless…you are as scared of them as you were of the reptiles.” He boldly accused. Everyone there was aware of the strangers less then heroic part in chasing off the strange creatures a few days ago.
His eyes darted around the crowd. Knowing he was backed into a corner, his eyes narrowed. “I wouldn’t have it any other way!” He smiled wryly as he pushed past the man in front of him and forced one of the doors open. “I’ll even go first.” He hissed over his shoulder, angered by the insult. Fenedwin lifted his head slightly impressed with the youngster’s courage, and followed in behind him.
Galedian peered out from beneath the cow of her robe and changed her aim to the sound of the door opening. Zimn kept his aim on the wall as his eyes flicked here and there noticing every movement. As two men stepped from behind the door, Tyrell sheathed his sword and took two steps forward.
“Why were you going to cut down our guest? Who is working so hard at keeping his friends from returning!” A different man then said in a voice with a snide tone. Tyrell sized up the man who asked the question. His walk was arrogant. He glanced over each shoulder to insure the archers covered him well, which in turn told Tyrell he was nervous. The weapon he held in his hand was expensive and well crafted, indicating he probably had some sort of training.
“I was merely trying to spare this village a slaughter.” Tyrell replied in his usual tone, which was cool and calm.
“So you openly threaten this village.” The man sneered.
“Fool! He implied no such thing!” Zimnefin shouted. His tone was sharp having been offended by the man’s absurd interpretation.
“Zimn!” Galedian scolded, surprised at his comment, which she worried would taunt the man. “Look, we just want to get out of the rain, eat, buy a boat and be gone from here.” She declared.
Both of the men cast their eyes towards Galedian. “Huhh. A girl.” The man joked.
Tyrell turned his gaze to the other man who remained silent. “If any draconians happen by here and see this”, he nodded at the grotesque display, “they will destroy this village purely out of hatred.” He said as he studied the man.
He was dressed all in black, and walked with confidence. He kept his eyes forward, his face beneath the shadow of his hat. A man of secretes Tyrell assessed. His trench coat had slits down the sides. For easy access to what he concealed beneath it. Since he held no weapon, Tyrell concluded this man was quick and deadly, more than likely an assassin or a rogue.
“You say these creatures are draconians, creatures of legend?” Fenedwin spoke finally. “You speak as if you are more than familiar with their sort.” He added as he and his apprehensive companion came even closer.
“It is because he has killed more-” Zimn started, but Tyrell held his hand up stopping his words.
“Lower your weapons.” He bid his friends. “We are all on the same side here. It is apparent they have reason to be skeptical of us.” He gave them each a reassuring look. “We have fought them before, and we seek to find their lair and destroy them.” Tyrell then said to the two men.
The cocky man started to chuckle. “You expect us to believe that. Why just two of them attacked us killing more than thirty before we felled this one.”
Tyrell’s eyes grew dangerous as he narrowed his gaze. “All the more reason not to have fifteen or twenty of them to contend with.”
Fenedwin had heard countless stories of Tyrell. All of which included his large and deadly companion, a wolf. Yet he had not detected such an animal. “I don’t think we can accommodate you and your friends.” He said having insufficient proof of the man’s identity.
“But-” Galedian started to protest. However, no sooner than she spoke, the other man raised his sword pointing it inches from Tyrell’s exposed chest. She held her words and shook her head in disbelief of the man’s stupid gesture.
“Your arrogance has made you foolish.” Tyrell said calmly with a hint of danger in his voice. “We want no trouble. Lower your blade and we shall take our leave.” He added.
Tyrell noticed the man in black drop his hands to his side. So he took a step back but as he did, the man threatening him stepped forward. “I think we should just kill you, take your weapons and spare us the trouble later.” He sneered as he eyed Tyrell’s swords.
“You can try.” Tyrell dared the man.
He responded with a whistle to which eight more men rushed through the doors. Tyrell’s features iced. “You are stupid, because of this, I’ll let you live.” Tyrell promised the man in a cold, definite tone.
The man made his move, but just as his blade twitched, Tyrell slapped it to the side. He followed through allowing his speed and momentum to spin him, kicking the man in the jaw. With tremendous speed he grabbed the man by his sword arm, punched him square in the face, twice. Then twisted him around, he dropped to one knee slamming his elbow fast and hard with cracking force into his ribs. As he came up and forward, he leaped high, spinning around again, planting one foot high in the man’s back and the other in his head.
When he landed, he was facing the man in black, pointing the sword he took from the other man at his throat. The man froze dead in his tracks holding a short sword and a dagger poised in front of him. His eyes were wide with shock at the speed of this man. He could not believe that he took out his companion and was on him before he could draw his own weapons.
Fenedwin was intelligent though and he quickly reconsidered his actions. His hands relaxed and slowly he released his weapons to fall to the ground. “You say your name is Tyrell Nacar? And yet you travel with an elf and a woman?” Fenedwin questioned cautiously.
“Yes. And one other.” Tyrell answered, and then called for his friend the wolf. As Odin trotted towards them, the man relaxed completely. Only because he knew now that this man was Tyrell and that he would not kill him unless provoked.
“Now I believe you are who you say, Tyrell.” He said with a polite nod of his head. “I am Fenedwin. A traveler through these parts. I, having been present when the creatures attacked, offered my knowledge and services to better the village’s defenses. My intentions are to keep them safe.” He quickly introduced himself in a friendlier tone.
“And what about him?” Tyrell inquired about the man who threatened him. Fenedwin looked down at the man still lying on his face unconscious. “I’m not sure. He rooms at the same Inn as I. He has been somewhat helpful with the cause, but more trouble than he’s worth.” He answered honestly.
Tyrell lowered the blade then wiped the rain from his face. “Once again we would like to get out of the rain, eat and buy a boat.” He stated. He tossed the sword on the ground near the owner. “With your permission of course.” He then added.
“Tyrell Nacar and his companions will always be welcome here.” Fenedwin promised with a smile. He leaned down, picked up his weapons, and placed them under his long coat. He then went over to his fallen comrade and retrieved the sword Tyrell tossed to the ground. He turned it in his grip studying its quality. Then with a flash, he spun and chopped the pike with the carcass on it down. He shot Tyrell a glance, then let the blade fall in the mud.
Galedian came to stand next to Tyrell and placed a hand on his arm. Part of her was unnerved over what transpired. The other part was proud that he did not kill anyone. Zimn stepped up to the other side of him and gave him a look of relief. Odin sat just in front of Tyrell pretending to be just an oversized Wolf.
Fenedwin walked up to the men standing in front of the gate. “This man is Tyrell Nacar. Stories of honor precede him and his friends. They search for the lair of the creatures that attacked us and intend on destroying the rest of them. They need dry shelter, food and wish to purchase a boat. They are welcome here.” He announced.
As the Four companions made their way past the gates, they could feel heavy, untrusting eyes upon them from many of the villagers. Once inside and clear, the heavy doors slammed shut behind them and the enormous iron bar fell into place with a thunderous clang. Galedian and Zimn looked from one side to the other curious as to what work was being done as they walked behind Tyrell through the village. Tyrell on the other hand, he kept his eyes on Fenedwin. Only once did he look away form the man and that was just his eyes as he glance to the man he knocked out and the two men who carried him.
Once inside the Inn, Galedian thought they would be received with a little more hospitality since they were paying customers, but her hopes quickly faded. The place was enormous inside, but it was rundown. The tables were shoddy, the chairs were not very comfortable, and the floor was dirty and grungy. After looking around she decided that the name The Mudcat was appropriate and she was sure it was well earned.
“We’ve been sitting here for ever and still nobody has come to get our orders.” She said under her breath in a disgruntle tone. Tyrell, who was busy assessing their surroundings for potentially dangerous people turned his gaze to her with a blank look on his face as if he were not bothered at all with the lack of attention. After all, there was a small crowd of ten quests not counting them, and the one barmaid there was, was doing her best.
“Be patient. In a few more moments if a servant does not come I’ll go to the bar and ask for someone to tend to our table.” He replied quietly.
Fenedwin came through the doors and stood momentarily as he scanned the room for the knight and his companions. Once he spotted them, he made his way to their table in long determined strides. “I apologize for the delay, but one of the cargo ships that arrived recently had been attacked and several of the crewmen have injuries. I did find a man with a boat suitable for your needs. He will be here within the hour to go over the details of sale with you.”
Just as he finished speaking, a young man nearly out of breath came up to the table. “Sir…Jarrath and his sons are still at the docks with Thaleus and Daven. He sent me to find you and ask that some help be sent so they can finish before dark.” The young man swallowed hard as he fought to catch his breath, and as he did, he produced a folded parchment from his pocket. “Also, Lil’ down at the warehouse says she needs everything on this list so she can tend to the wounded sailors.”
Fenedwin took the parchment and opened it. Dismay painted his face as he cocked his head. “It’ll be hard pressed to find all this, but you tell Lil I will do my best.” The boy nodded his head and turned in a sprint towards the doors. “Boy!” Fenedwin called after him causing his feet to skid on the dirty floor to a halt. “Tell Jarrath I can spare three men now and two more in an hour, but no more until the wall is finished.”
Once again, the boy gave a nod and turned, breaking into a run to deliver the messages. Galedian listened intensely to the conversation. She felt a strong urge inside her very being to offer her assistance to the injured men. An overwhelming sense of duty grew suddenly, bearing down on her soul to assist with her magical skills. She could not bear it any longer. Despite her hunger and weary limbs with their aches and pains, she had to offer her aide at the least. “Fenedwin, I am a cleric of Habbuku. I can help those men with their injuries if there are any in need.” She blurted out. Realizing what she had just done, she looked to Tyrell thinking she should have asked or spoke with him about it first since they were already on an important errand.
Tyrell had no such thoughts. He was more than glad to see that she had such compassion for people she had not met. This was a true sign of her loyalty to Habbuku and his ways. Even more so was the amount of courage it took to admit being a cleric in these times, which frowned at or opposed such magic strongly. He gave her a smile showing not only his approval but his support as well.
Fenedwin eyed her suspiciously. There had not been a cleric of any god in over a hundred years. Moreover, those he had heard make such claims met with terrible fates from those who disbelieve. He considered the fact that she traveled in the company of Tyrell, a man with great honor and detest for lies. However, this was not what convinced him. No it was something else, something in the depths of her eyes that told him she possessed the magic to heal.
Galedian waited for his response and when it did not come as she had expected she persisted. “Well, what do you say? Can I be of assistance?” She asked again.
“Of course Mi’ lady...So kind of you to offer such skill. I’m sure Lil would be honored and obliged for your aide.” He replied finally. He then turned to Tyrell. “If it is by your leave, I’ll escort the lady and introduce her to Lil accordingly.”
“The lady does not need my permission to aide those men, but for good measure, I approve of your escort with one of my own.” Tyrell answered amused. His gaze locked with Fenedwin’s and burned into the depths of his souls secrets. “Odin, would you be as kind as to accompany Galedian?” He then said with a smile. His words came out more as a request than a question.
“I assure you, she will be fine.” Fenedwin replied with nod of his head.
“In that I have no doubt.” Tyrell answered sternly as the smile on his face faded.
Fenedwin understood his meaning well and could only imagine the large wolfs vicious potential would be welcoming compared to that of Tyrell. Fenedwin turned with a polite snap on his heels and took his leave with Galedian close behind and Odin, a three hundred pound wolf, at her side.
Not much was said on the way there, and Galedian was thankful for the silence. She felt a little uneasy around Fenedwin but could not quite figure out why. Therefore, she was glad that when he did speak it was simple small talk that did not require her to reply. Once they arrived and she and Lil were introduced, Galedian did not waist any time. Some of the men sustained sever injuries and others even had multiple wounds. With Lil’s direction, Galedian immediately started on those whose condition was worst. Kneeling beside each man, she looked at their wounds and placed one hand over the injury and the other over their head. Quietly she uttered her prayers to Habbuku and summoned the healing magic from within her. One by one, she went through the process, calling forth the soft hue of the warming glow of pale blue light.
At first Lil was hesitant upon witnessing Galedian’s use of magic. She almost asked her to leave, but after seeing the results of the man’s health instantly make a turn for the better, she held her tongue. Yet, Lil was still uncomfortable for a while and watched Galedian with a scrying eye while she, her self, tended to her own patient.
Eventually though Lil was more amazed by Galedian’s ability than she was afraid of it, and with each patient showing great improvement, some even instant, Lil found her smile again. By the time, Galedian saw to the last man she had grown tired from the continuous use of the draining magic. As she went to sit on a wooden three-legged stool, she barely caught her self as she plopped down awkwardly.
Lil, having been watching her so, was aware of her condition and went to her aide. “Are you alright ma’m?” she asked.
“Well it’s about time you decided to speak to me.” Galedian replied with a kind smile. “I started to wonder if I was plagued or not.”
Lil giggled lightly. “I’m sorry, it’s just-”
“No need to explain. I understand.” Galedian interrupted her. “And yes I am fine, just tired. I haven’t eaten much and had a harsh journey here.”
“You have done enough here this night. I appreciate all that you have done, and I’m sure these men are grateful as well. So why don’t you return to the Mudcat and tend to yer self. I can take care of them the rest of the night.”
Galedian gave her a kind smile then looked to the wolf sitting by the door. “Well Odin, let’s find our way back, I’m sure Tyrell and Zimn will start to wonder about us.” Just as she opened the door, Lil called from behind her.
“Galedian…is it?”
“What?”
“Your name…it is Galedian.”
“Yes it is.” Galedian answered with the same smile as before.
“The river shall carry that name with it on its great journey to the sea. All will know of the lady and her gracious heart.” Lil promised in a thankful tone.
Galedian’s smile grew even bigger, she was glad to see some kindness in this dreadful village. Without saying a word, she simply closed the door behind her and patted Odin on the head as she bounced by him. The walk back to the Mudcat was uneventful. In fact, there was hardly a soul, other than the guards, out and about. There was no moon or stars to be seen as she turned her gaze to the heavens. For the clouds must still be thick overhead.
Her thoughts began to wonder far across the lands, deep within the mountains. She was concerned for Thorin and knew he needed his friends, especially Tyrell in this time of his father’s death. As her mind and her heart reached out for him, a silent prayer to Habbuku crossed her lips. “Please Habbuku, find Thorin, and though he prays not to you, I pray for him in his time of need. Give to him the peace his heart needs, the strength to understand, and the wisdom to know we are all with him.”
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