by Millie Burns
“No, thank you, I need a clear head.” Ravyn set the glass and decanter down on the small table.
Connor sat on the edge of the bed. Ravyn sat in a little chair by the fireplace, and Blade leaned against the wall. “Now, let’s walk through Zelera’s defenses,” Connor said, “and how you will overcome them. The first obstacle is a rock wall, nearly a 150 feet high. I have seen you pass this in a vision. How will you bypass this barrier?”
Ravyn smiled at Blade, “This is why I asked you to come.”
He furrowed his brows, puzzled.
“Blade will help me climb this wall. He is a very skilled rock climber,” she beamed at Connor. “You should see him. He’s like a little lizard, clinging to the tiniest bits of rock. If he leads, I can follow.”
“Ah, that’s right; the raven in my vision carried a sword in her talons,” Connor mumbled.
“What was that you said?” Ravyn asked.
“Nothing, dear, but yes Blade must go with you. While you two are scaling the wall, I will keep an eye out for magic used against you when you are vulnerable upon the face. Secondly, there is a wall of fire. How do you propose to pass through this?”
“The dragon Ena gave me a piece of her skin. I can wrap this around Blade and me, and can fashion a protective spell around our feet to shield them as well.”
“Very good,” Connor replied, “but I will weave the protection into your boots. You must conserve your energy for Zelera. You’ll need every ounce of strength you possess to overcome her.”
“But you need to protect the army from her spells. You will be protecting us while we climb. You cannot spread yourself too thin.”
“You, Ravyn, and you alone can win this war. The army is merely a diversion. We hope to spread her too thin, fighting several fronts. It requires great energy to control the Light, as you well know. It is the same in harnessing the Darkness. If we can stretch Zelera thin enough, she may make a critical error. The army knows what their job is; they also know that lives will be lost in this conflict. They offer up their lives for the return of the crown and freedom for Aigerach.”
Ravyn swallowed back a pang of guilt at the thought of more lives lost. She sucked in a deep breath and pulled her shoulders back straightening her spine and resolve, “The third circle of power is a deep, wide moat. I’m a good swimmer, having lived on an island for so many years. I’ll just swim across.”
“You may not touch the water. It eats the flesh of all living things that touch it. We must come up with another way to cross.”
“What about a raft, or protective clothing?” Blade entered in the conversation.
“I may have to transport you across, which will expend a great deal of energy, but we still have time to work this through. Let’s look at the next challenge, the Vortex.”
“I was given a harpy’s feather. It stands against any wind, natural or magic. It’ll see me through the Vortex. That leaves the moat as the only real challenge.”
“I’ve had a vision of you flying past these tests. The answer to the water obstacle will present itself in due time. I’m more worried about what Zelera will throw at you once you two are face to face. Did you study your mother’s book?”
Ravyn sighed. “Yes I did, though I don’t know how it will help.”
Connor smiled at the memory of Lareina years ago, the same exasperated look on her face. “What did you learn?” Connor asked.
Ravyn pushed a stray lock of hair away from her cheek and looked over at Blade.
“Don’t look at me. I’m not a student of the Light,” he chuckled. “You spent a lot of time with your nose in that book. Just tell him what you read.”
Ravyn looked back at Connor and took a deep breath before reciting, “This is what I understand from my reading. The Light flows through all living things. It grows when used in the service of others. It cannot be suppressed unless we allow it to be, and it can never be taken away from us. It is always there and can be utilized in many different ways as long as the intent behind it comes from a heart dedicated to truth and to the betterment of those on whose behalf it is used.” Her words lost strength toward the end of her recitation as she ran out of breath. “That is what I learned from the book.” Ravyn folded her hands in her lap.
“Very good,” Connor smiled. “Do you believe?” He cocked a busy gray brow.
“Believe? I believe the Light flows through me. I have used it in numerous situations on my journey. I have felt the place where it wells deep within me. I have tasted its goodness as it has aided me.”
Connor stood up from the bed and walked to Ravyn’s side. He placed his hand under her chin drawing her gaze to his patient gray eyes. “But do you have faith, child? You must have faith not only in the Light, but in yourself.”
Ravyn reached for the wine decanter and poured a glass. She swirled the wine around the goblet watching the light dance off the glass, and then she took a long swig. “I have faith in the good men and women of Aigerach who give their lives for freedom. I have faith in you who guide me with patience and wisdom. I have faith in Blade who stands by my side, and I have faith in the Light that wells within me. So, I guess I have faith in me too. I will do whatever is necessary to save those I love.”
Pride and sadness filled Connor’s smoky gray eyes. “I have faith in you, Ravyn. You have shown great moral fortitude this past month in the choices you have made and creativity in managing the force that chose you for its vessel. You are a natural at working with the Light.” He nodded toward the door. “Go get some rest. Sometimes answers come when we least expect them.”
Ravyn stood to leave. She felt light-headed from the wine coursing through her veins, and a bit warm. She swayed a moment, grabbing the table for support. “Oh, I almost forgot. There are six wolves staying in the woods behind the inn that want to join the battle. I have given them human speech so they can communicate. I would like to have fine mail or leather armor covering their torsos. Could that be arranged?”
“Surely,” he smiled at her. Turning to Blade, he asked, “Will you inform the General for me before you retire?”
“Yes, Sir,” Blade answered. He straightened away from the wall and turned to follow Ravyn from the room, “And Connor,” Blade grinned, “it’s good to see you again.”
Ravyn opened the door and stepped out into the cool hallway, a multitude of worries tumbling through her mind. Her feet took her down the stairs. Her fingers trailed the polished rail making a squeaking noise as she descended.
“Rav, where are you going? Your room is up here.” Blade bounded down the stairs and stopped in front of her. He blocked her way. “You need to get some rest.”
“I need some fresh air Blade,” she pleaded. “I’m not used to being indoors around so many people. I’ll be right behind the inn. I promise I won’t stray. I need to tell the wolves to come round in the morning to be fitted for armor.”
Blade stepped aside but gently ordered, “Don’t stay out too long.”
A sad smile crossed her face. “I promise.”
Ravyn sat on a stone bench in the garden behind the inn. The stars twinkled above and the wind sighed through the trees. Ravyn could not embrace the quiet and calm. She shifted on the cold stone, “Kialgyn,” she called out. Moments passed in silence, and then she heard the soft padding of feet on gravel.
“You called, Princess?” Kialgyn strolled up to Ravyn and sat down before her.
“Yes, tomorrow, come round to the armorer. He’ll fit you with light mail or leathers.”
Kialgyn growled low and soft.
“I promise it won’t be bulky. I will fear for you unless you have some kind of protection.” She ran her fingers through his soft gray fur and began scratching his withers.
“If it will let you rest easier, it will be so,” Kialgyn murmured. “It is late Ravyn. You should get some sleep.”
“I don’t know if I’ll be able to sleep tonight. I’m so worried. People will lose their lives. I’m putting Blade at great risk
too, asking him to accompany me into the very heart of Zelera’s lair. If I fail, all of Aigerach will suffer.”
Kialgyn sat up straighter and stared into her eyes. “Do not lose your faith, little bird. You have courage and honor. Put yourself above your fears and doubt, and do what is right. If you do that, you cannot fail.” His ears perked up. “The Blade is coming. I will tell the others to prepare for wearing armor. They are not keen about the idea, but they will do it for you.” Ravyn watched him slip off, a ghost in the trees.
Blade came around the corner of the inn. “Rav, are you all right? You look shaken.” He sat down beside her putting her hand in his, locking fingers.
“I’m frightened, Blade. So many good people’s lives hang in the balance.”
He squeezed her hand. “It is overwhelming,” he agreed.
She turned her blue eyes on him, “I am afraid for you. You are following me into this nightmare, and I can’t stand the thought of losing you. I’m afraid I will make the wrong decision and be the downfall of all of Aigerach. So much rests upon my shoulders alone, and I feel inadequate.” Tears spilled down her cheeks and she turned away.
Unlacing his fingers, Blade grabbed Ravyn’s shoulders, turning her to face him. “Ravyn, you will never lose me. My heart is yours.” He leaned forward, his lips brushing against hers. “You cannot fail, Ravyn. I have enough faith in you for both of us.”
Ravyn cupped Blade’s strong muscular face in her hands. Blue eyes brimmed with tears, but they also held a smile. “You always know how to make me feel better, Blade. Thank you for being you.” Warmth flushing her face, she leaned in to him, returning his kiss. “I love you too,” she sighed. They sat together on the bench holding hands and gazing at the stars. Neither one wanting to break the peaceful spell that wrapped around them.
“Rav,” Blade murmured in her ear, “you need sleep.”
“I know,” she said, whispering, “but I don’t want this moment to end.”
“It never will,” he smiled, “it’s written upon our hearts. Now that you’ve confessed your love for me just try leaving me and see how far you’ll get.”
Arm in arm they returned to the inn, separating only when they came to their rooms. “May the Light bless your dreams,” he whispered, kissing her cheek.
Ravyn lay down on the soft feather bed. Blade’s face swam through her mind, pushing the worries of the future into a little box, where she promptly closed the lid. She snuggled into the downy softness, gently snoring. She saw herself sitting at the side of a sparkling river. At the river’s edge, two beautiful water sprites rose to the surface, giggling and splashing water all about. They handed her something, and peace fell over her. “Believe in yourself,” the melodious voices cried in joy. A smile tugged at the corners of Ravyn’s lips, and she slept until the sun started rising, heralding a new day.
Ravyn woke to a chorus of birdsong that flitted through her open window. Light filtered through a crack in the shutters. She closed her eyes so she could think about the dream. She didn’t understand it exactly, but it filled her with hope. Filling the porcelain basin with cool water, she washed the sleep out of her eyes. She ran a brush through her sleep-mussed hair. The aroma of bacon and biscuits wafted up from the kitchen, enticing her to hurry downstairs for breakfast.
She bumped into Connor in the hallway. “Oh, I’m sorry; I was in such a hurry to get to the food. It smells so wonderful.”
“You’re looking alert and hungry this morning,” he mused. “I assume you finally got some rest last night.”
“I had the most wonderful dream. I think it foretold of a way past the moat. I believe the Light blesses our quest and is going to send aid. I feel so alive this morning,” she spun in a little circle arms outstretched.
“Well, I’m glad to hear that, because I didn’t get any clarity last night.” An enormous grumbling erupted from Connor’s stomach. Patting it, he chuckled, “Time to feed the beast.”
Stopping in front of Blade’s door, Ravyn smirked, “Should we wake the sleepyhead?”
“Who’re you calling sleepyhead,” Blade asked from the stairwell. “I’ve been up for hours already, seeing to the wolves’ armor, as M’ lady asked,” he said bowing. “I’ve groomed our horses and packed our provisions. I was on my way to wake you for breakfast.”
“Oh,” Ravyn laughed. “Connor and I are very hungry. I hope you’ve saved some.” Descending the stairs, they entered the dining room. Jolene and an older woman placed trays heaping with bacon, eggs, and fluffy biscuits on the table. Mugs of steaming tea set ready at their places.
Ravyn hopped on the bench, digging into the meal. After her third helping of honey smothered biscuits, she pushed herself away from the table. “I don’t believe I could eat another bite.”
“I should hope not,” Blade cried in amusement, “or I’ll have to get you a draft horse for the journey.”
“Well, if you’re done with the bacon, pass that tray to me,” Connor gestured to the last pieces of bacon. “I have room for those.” Ravyn passed the tray, Connor took the bacon, and then he stood. “I can eat while I ride. Blade, is my horse ready as well, or do you only take care of the lady now-a-days?”
“Yes, sir, your horse is ready. All the men are ready to ride. The wolves are scouting the trail ahead and should return as we ride out.”
Jolene emerged from the kitchen as they were heading out the front door. “M’ lady,” she cried, “I have something for you. Last night Captain Greves mentioned how well you liked the honey cakes I made, so I packed you some.” She handed a little parcel to Ravyn.
“Thank you, Jolene. They are delicious. Did the Captain get some as well? I’m afraid I ate all of his yesterday.”
“I made some for him too, m’ lady,” Jolene smiled, winking, “I’ve heard some say the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.”
Connor laughed, “It’s true Jolene. Why, if I were younger, I’d be fighting for your hand. I suppose I’ll have to leave that to someone like the Captain though. Lucky man.”
Jolene blushed. “The blessing of the Light upon you all. We will by praying for your success and safety.”
Ravyn embraced Jolene. “Thank you,” she whispered, “for everything. I feel privileged to have known you.”
Chapter 18
The horses pranced in anticipation at a picket in front of The Dancing Bear. Ravyn untied the lead to her stallion and leapt up into her saddle. Blade was already seated and ready to go. He murmured into his nervous horse’s ears, cooing soft and low. The lane exiting the little town swelled with a sea of faces, far more than the little town could hold. Ravyn smiled and waved as she allowed her stallion the freedom it wanted, and it trotted out of the courtyard.
A wave of cheers and blessings to the Light washed over her filling her with pride as they exited the square, heading south to the river. The bright sun smiled down at them. A cool autumn breeze danced through the trees, and the leaves whispered a happy melody.
Off in the distance Ravyn could see several gray forms loping toward them, the sun glinting off silvery backs. The wolves quickly closed the distance.
“Kialgyn, you look magnificent,” Ravyn cried as he neared her horse. “I hope the armor isn’t too uncomfortable.”
His blue eyes twinkled, “Rather a fine fit actually; the Blade oversaw the whole thing. The mail is light and cool. We hardly know it’s there. We’ve run several miles ahead, and nothing out of the ordinary catches our attention. Oakley is still scouting ahead. He will send messages to us in the rear if anything is amiss. He has a sensitive nose and an earsplitting howl.” Kialgyn flashed Ravyn a toothy grin.
They continued down the road together, enjoying the fine autumn day. The mood was light, with everyone laughing and joking as they passed fields of grain ripe for harvest.
The morning skipped by, and at mid-day a howling message passed down the line of wolves. They neared the river where scores of men, elves, unicorn, and harpy camped on both sides. General
Joff spurred his horse and galloped away from them at breakneck speed, with great clouds of dust billowing up each time his horse’s hooves struck the road. He soon reached the river and was off his horse. They lost sight of him as the warriors who awaited his commands surrounded him.
As her horse sauntered along, Ravyn lost herself in the scenes of autumn. Trees were heavy with ripe fruit, and bees were buzzing about the wildflowers growing along the road. Women were out in the orchards and fields bringing in the harvest. Their children followed behind gleaning the fallen fruit and golden grains.
“A copper for your thoughts,” Blade interrupted her meditation.
She turned to face him. She was wearing a sad smile that tugged on his heartstrings. “No thought really. I was just marveling at the beautiful countryside. I noticed women out in the fields. Their men will be down at the river, armed and ready for battle. How many of those men will return to their homes, their families, their friends?” She stared into Blade’s eyes, determination crossing her face. “We must get into that castle as fast as possible, Blade. Only I can stop these people from dying.”
The easiness of the morning vanished, gone in an instant. “We’ll do our best, Ravyn. That’s all we can do.”
“I know,” she murmured, “I know.”
The river sparkled up ahead like a long serpentine chain. Both sides of the river swelled with untold numbers of men and women, elves, harpies, and even unicorn. A loud roaring cheer broke from the camps as her horse neared. Swallowing back the lump in her throat, Ravyn sat a little taller in her saddle and held her head a little higher. So many faces, some bitterly young and many far too old. They had to succeed. They just had to.
General Joff was addressing a large group and shouting out orders. So many sounds assailed her ear: the hissing sounds of fires as water hit the flames, pots and pans clanking together as they thudded into the back of a wagon, the snapping of canvas as tents were shaken out to be folded and rolled and tied to the back of a horse. Giallag broke from a herd of a hundred or more unicorn; his thundering hooves added to the cacophony. He skidded to a stop in front of Ravyn, and he bowed his great white head. Colorful glimmers of light danced across the ground at his feet as the sun reflected off his opalescent horn.