"True. It's a risk either way."
"I'll leave it up to you to decide," Falric said. He could see Vincent running through the scenarios in his mind. After a minute of deliberation, Vincent spoke up.
"Let's do it. The benefit outweighs the risks, and if they run into any trouble unrelated to us, we can sort that too."
"And if trouble does come looking for us, we can divert them away," Falric said.
"Agreed. Let's head back and let him know. Are you fine with this Alrion?"
"Sure, why not? We have the opportunity to help them and it may help us too."
"Great," Vincent said and started back towards the caravan.
"I see you approaching again, am I right that you're on-board?" Farver said.
"Yes, we're in. Thanks for the opportunity," Vincent said. Farver made a quick hand signal and a young boy ran off towards the rear of the caravan.
"He will let them know you are joining us. Head down and ask for anything you need urgently. There'll be another opportunity later today when we stop to make camp."
"How long until we make it to Paperton?" Alrion said.
"I expect we will part ways around midday tomorrow. It shouldn't take you more than a few hours to complete your journey from that point."
"Thanks again, we will see you later," Falric said.
"My pleasure. Donna will sort you out," Farver said. The three of them stepped away and watched him swamped by people once more.
"Busy guy," Alrion said.
"Yes, but very clever. He sized us up and determined we were not a risk, and could be useful to him. But he also offered a mutually beneficial proposition. He's a smooth operator," Vincent said.
"Isn't that good?"
"Oh yes, it's good. It means that he has been doing this a while and knows how to work with people. He's quite alert, so let's assume that there will be trouble and have our guard up. I don't take him to be the type to worry unnecessarily."
"I agree," Falric said. They continued over to the rear wagon in the caravan and saw a tall, thin woman with short brown hair and glasses on. She was on the move constantly, packing things away, and rearranging storage in the wagon.
"You must be Donna?" Falric said.
"That's me. You must be the new folks. Anything, in particular, you need before we head off?"
"Something to snack on?" Alrion said.
"Not much here, it's all been packed away. I can find you something, though. Anything else?"
"No, I think we're fine. We may need some bedding later."
"We will handle that later tonight. Take this," Donna said shoving a parcel at Alrion, then returned to rearranging things.
"Thanks, see you later," Alrion said.
"Bye," Donna said without turning around. She started muttering to herself and increased the pace at which she was working.
"What did you score?" Falric said.
"I think these are biscuits," Alrion said.
"You enjoy those. I have some stale bread for later," Vincent said with a chuckle.
"Sure, I'll take my chances with their food," Alrion said.
"Suit yourself," Vincent said. "Let's make ourselves useful."
"Sure," Alrion said. Together they helped pack up the caravan. Donna was quick to give them jobs once she saw them helping. Falric sat off to the side, supervising and chiming in with clever quips when he saw an opportunity.
"He's enjoying himself too much," Vincent said. Alrion flashed him back a smile.
"Well you two, thanks for your help. You did more than my so-called helpers," Donna said.
"Since we're coming along, we thought it was worth giving you a hand," Vincent said.
"It made a difference. And now you can help me in another way. The three of you can ride in our wagon, and my helpers can walk alongside. That'll teach them to let guests outwork them."
"It's a tough job, but someone has to do it. You name it, we'll do it," Falric said.
"Typical that he's all hands on deck when it comes to sitting around," Vincent said.
"Of course. Efficient use of resources. I have years of experience sitting down," Falric said.
"I'm all about efficiency. Now off you go, before you hold us up," Donna said. She pointed to the rear of the wagon and the three of them headed over. They found a small space at the end, where they could sit on crates and barrels and enjoy the fresh air.
"This was a good idea," Vincent said.
"Agreed. If we can't get horses, then traveling with the caravan will do nicely. This trip has been a lot more eventful than I had expected. The sooner we reach Paperton the better," Falric said.
"Is that the last place we will be going?"
"No, but our way will be simpler once we get there."
"Still cryptic," Vincent said.
"I don't want to disappoint," Falric said, and waved his hand in a mystical way. Alrion laughed. The conversation died down and he watched the countryside as they went.
The progress of the caravan was very slow, it was easy enough for the lazy workers to walk alongside the wagons. But they travelled consistently and without breaks.
"We are making good time. All things considered," Falric said. Vincent nodded.
"Looks like we won't be stopping for lunch," he said. He pointed at the men walking alongside and saw that they were eating as they walked.
"I guess it would be too much effort to stop and restart this big a group," Alrion said.
"Exactly. And if they are wary of trouble, the more time they are in motion the better. There's probably some food here, let's check," Vincent said. He rummaged through the boxes and found some more biscuits, only these were plainer and more bread-like.
"These should do the job," he said, handing them out. Alrion bit into one and was surprised by the flavour. They were crispy, salted and felt substantial.
"Pretty good," Alrion said.
"Don't eat too many."
"Got it."
"This is nice and peaceful. Let's hope the rest of the journey is as uneventful," Falric said and Vincent and Alrion murmured agreement.
The afternoon progressed slowly, but steadily. Alrion could tell that they seemed to be climbing slowly, the ground rising in elevation.
"We're going up," he said.
"That's probably why they aren't going to Paperton. It's down by the water, and hard to access with this number of wagons," Falric said. Alrion was about to respond when he noticed the wagon jolt. It rapidly slowed, then stopped.
"Must be trouble, let me investigate," Vincent said. He jumped out immediately and ran towards the front of the caravan.
"Let us also exit, I have a bad feeling," Falric said. Alrion leaped out of the wagon and Falric carefully stepped down. Alrion looked ahead and could see the whole caravan had stopped and there was a huddle of people next to the front wagon. He watched his father step into the huddle and converse with them.
"Definitely looks like something is happening," Alrion said.
"Let me see," Falric said. He closed his eyes and concentrated. His eyes opened, and he started walking away.
"I need to warn them."
"What is it?"
"Blighters," Falric whispered and Alrion took off after him. As they neared the huddle it opened as if welcoming them in.
"We've had a sighting," Vincent said.
"Blighters," Falric said.
"So, let's take that as confirmed. Do we know where they are coming from?"
"Not sure, we may even be surrounded."
"I have an idea. But you're not going to like it."
"No, if it's what I think it is."
"I'm going to move forward, see if I can lure them away. The caravan is a sitting duck, and will be hard to defend."
"By yourself? That is suicide," Farver said. The people surrounding him murmured their agreement.
"It's a calculated risk. Not all will follow, but it will split them up and I can probably track where they are coming from. If there's a Tainted One dir
ecting them I can take him out and scatter the rest."
"Then I can defend the caravan from any stragglers," Falric commented.
"Is this really a good idea?" Alrion said.
"It's the best we have. There's no time. If we get separated I will move on to Brangtur. That should confuse them. I will wait for you there," Vincent said.
"Sure. But we will be seeing you soon," Falric said.
"Take care of the old man," Vincent said, giving Alrion an affectionate pat on the shoulder.
"Dad are you sure about this?"
"Don't worry about me, I can handle myself. Got a horse I can use?"
"Yes, take mine. She's black with a white stripe up around the front wagon. With luck, you will bring her back," Farver said.
"Done," Vincent said. He ran towards the horse and jumped up into the saddle. After steadying himself he rode off along the road.
"Be safe," Alrion said to himself. He hoped to see his father again but was unsure of when that would be. He too had a bad feeling.
Falric drew Farver aside.
"I am no tactician, but make sure you evenly spread your people out. The more we spread out the Blighters, the better. They will get more confused and be easier targets. Give me a horse and I will ride up and down the length of the caravan, taking them down as I can."
"Who are you?" Farver said.
"I'm a wizard. Battle is not my forte, but I can be useful. Very useful."
"Whatever you need. This caravan isn't just our livelihoods, it is also our home. Take Master Falric here to our fastest horse," Farver said.
"What about me?" Alrion said.
"You ride with me. Help me spot targets, and pay attention. It's going to get chaotic."
"Sure," Alrion said, glad to not be left behind.
"Incoming!" a voice yelled from the rear of the caravan. Falric was about to mount up when he stopped.
"Actually, you take the reins, so I can concentrate on the fight."
"No problem," Alrion said. He mounted up and leaned forward, giving Falric room to sit behind him.
"Go!" Falric said. Alrion kicked the horse into action and headed towards the commotion. As they thundered along the caravan, they saw a pack of Blighters converging on the rear wagon.
"Ride past them in an arc," Falric said. Alrion spurred the horse on, heading directly at them and when close, steering the horse away. As they rode alongside the Blighters, a stream of fire flew out from Falric's hands and consumed them. Alrion continued the arc and turned the horse around.
"Good. Let's go back and look for more," Falric said. He could see that the Blighters had either been killed outright or were being finished off by caravan folk. They returned to the main wagons and saw several Blighters splitting up and going after individual people.
"Slow down, I need more finesse here," Falric said. Alrion did as instructed, keeping a safe distance but riding closer to the Blighters. Falric pointed at one and a thin spear of fire shot out and pierced a Blighter through the eye. He dropped to the ground instantly.
"Wow, that's precise," Alrion said.
"Yes, but it takes a lot of concentration. Let's get the rest."
"On my way," Alrion said, picking up the pace and heading to the next Blighter. This time he slowed between two of them, and Falric let loose two more spears of fire. They continued in this fashion until they had reached the head of the caravan.
"There's a few here," Alrion commented.
"You aren't joking," Falric said. There must have been fifty Blighters streaming towards the caravan, a lone figure in the distance behind them.
"Who is that?"
"It's not the wizard; I'd say it is a Tainted One directing this lot. I want you to ride through the pack so we can go after him," Falric said.
"I hope you know what you're doing," Alrion said and spurred the horse on.
"I'm going to have some fun with this," Falric said. Alrion wondered what he was talking about but soon he saw. A giant bird comprised of flame hovered above them, swooped over their heads, and rushed ahead of them. The flame bird attacked the group of Blighters head on, the intense heat incinerating all it touched and blazing a path through them. Alrion rode hot on its trail, making the most of the impact. As they rode Falric fanned flames on either side, torching those that were still alive but confused by the attack.
One of them stumbled towards the horse, despite the burning flames. Alrion had no time to think. He summoned his power, channelling it into a forceful push knocking the Blighter far away. It didn't get up again.
"Good instincts. Leave the rest of the stragglers and let's go for the leader," Falric said. Alrion's face lit up with the thrill of battle and his successful contribution and urged the horse on, towards the lone man standing at the back.
The man was just standing there, motionless.
"Something's not right," Alrion said.
"Slow down and approach at a walk," Falric said. Alrion dropped his speed and the horse trotted towards the man, who remained motionless. Alrion could sense that Falric was up to something. He kept his eyes on the man and saw a cage built of fire assemble itself around him.
"That should hold him, let's go have a chat," Falric said. Alrion looked back to see how the caravan was faring.
"Don't worry about them, they can finish up."
"Why did he let us capture him without a fight?" Alrion said.
"I'm not completely sure. However, I suspect it has to do with their communication link. I can imagine it would be disruptive having large numbers of Blighters in pain and dying all at once."
"Interesting," Alrion said. He dismounted and helped Falric down. Up close, the man looked normal. He had short dark hair, green eyes, and was looking down at the ground.
"Who sent you?" Falric said. The man looked up, not really seeing them. It was as if he was gazing past them.
"Who sent you?"
"The reclaimer."
"The reclaimer? Who is that?"
"He is the one that reclaims the world for us. For those touched by the Blight. He gives us a future."
"Does he have a name?"
"He is the reclaimer."
"Is he a wizard?" Alrion said. The question seemed to jolt the man out of his trance-like state.
"What's it to you?"
"You attacked us. Why?" Alrion said.
"It's all part of his plan."
"Tell me more of this plan," Falric said.
"That's not part of the plan," the man said. He reached into his boot and retrieved a small vial of liquid, downing it in one gulp.
"You have triumphed here, but you will not win," the man said, then collapsed to the ground. Falric released the fire cage and walked up to inspect him.
"He's dead. It must have been poison."
"That's crazy," Alrion said.
"Perhaps, perhaps not. However, there is a serious plot here that we cannot ignore. I am continually surprised by their ability to track us."
"What about my father? The fight is done now."
"Yes, the immediate danger is over, but I doubt he will return. He has good instincts, I think he will try and lure them away from us."
"You planned this? All along?"
"No, but we considered it if we were attacked again. He convinced me that it was a good idea. Don't worry about him, he can take care of himself. You and I also have an important job to do."
"I know."
"Let us return, and talk to Farver. He will want an update," Falric said and walked back to the horse. The two of them rode back to the caravan, Alrion trying not to look at the damage and devastation.
"Is that it?" Farver said as they approached.
"Yes, their leader is dead. Our friend is out looking for any others," Falric said.
"What were they after? I have not heard of such attacks."
"I'm not sure, but perhaps they were after us."
"Really?"
"It's our best theory. I am a wizard after all. We appreciate your help an
d hospitality but we cannot endanger you any further."
"I appreciate your honesty and your gesture. Given what has happened, I think I would be forced to ask you to leave otherwise."
"No problem here. We will gather a few things and be on our way."
"Please take the horse as a token of friendship. It will speed you on your way."
"And if trouble follows us, it will be further from you."
"Indeed, it serves us both."
"Thank you, and good luck," Falric said. Farver bowed.
"I'll fetch some supplies," Alrion said and darted off to the rear wagon.
"That was quite a fight," Donna said.
"It was quite intense. Is everyone alright?"
"I think so, apart from a few scares and some damage I think we came out unscathed. Thanks to your help."
"Thanks. If you don't mind, I will grab a few things before we leave."
"You're leaving?"
"We are travelling with a wizard. We may be drawing their attention."
"Oh, I see. Well, take what you need and good luck."
"Thanks, Donna. Safe travels," Alrion said. He quickly grabbed some blankets and food and stuffed them into his bag and ran off. He found the situation a little too awkward and was happy to be leaving. He felt bad that they might have put these people in danger.
"All set?" Falric said.
"Yes."
"Off we go."
"Sure," Alrion said. He looked back and reflected on the situation.
"The Bright Caravan is not as bright now, but it will endure." He nudged the horse forward and they galloped away.
22
A New Skill
They made good progress on the horse, much faster than the caravan was travelling. As they settled into the ride, Alrion spoke at last.
"Falric, I have a question about magic."
"Go ahead."
"How come you seem to use a lot of fire magic? Is that on purpose, or is that just a coincidence?"
"Good question. The simple answer is that everyone has different affinities with the various elements. A talent if you will. It just so happens that I have a talent with fire. It comes more naturally and so I end up using it more. That reinforces my comfort and ability with fire. It is generally a self-supporting cycle."
Pool of Knowledge (The Hidden Wizard Book 1) Page 15