"Get around here. We ride in a few minutes. It will take us a bit to get secured in the right barrel." Stain led the way to a barrel that looked different. It was painted with images of animals and people. Some of the people opened up the barrel and I could see that there were seats and areas for animals, even some cages. "Pick a seat and strap yourself down. Make sure you are strapped down tight. All your belongings need to be strapped down also. Ott, come help me with Tag and Evins." The two packshells had tucked themselves into two stalls that provided just enough room for them to sit. We ran nets over them and strapped them down tightly. They let us know when to tighten a strap if it was too loose. Once they were snug Stain and I made sure everyone else was secure. Seeing that everyone was strapped down tight we made sure to tie ourselves down safely.
"Stain. What happens to the barrels?" Raven's voice was unsure, not scared, simply curious and maybe a little nervous.
Stain smiled and replied, "Why they go up the tube."
"Where does the tube go?" Mophar asked this time.
Stain looked at him, "Up the mountain."
"How?" Pat seemed confused.
Stain grinned, "The tube fills with water from the waterfall, which is traveling downwards at great speed. This forces the barrel up the tube and it rises very high up the mountain. This will save us several days walking."
"Wait." Conium seemed suddenly nervous. "We are going to ride up a tube, supported by a column of water, inside this wooden barrel?"
"Correct!" Stain was enjoying himself now.
Conium looked at him and swallowed, "I hate you a little bit right now old man."
Stain just laughed.
I heard a jangle of voices and Stain called back to them. The door of the barrel closed and the barrel started to move. It seemed to be floating already, perhaps on a small channel of water. It bumped and swayed like a dairy maid. It came to rest against another piece of wood.
"Sounds like the tube. It takes just a moment for them to get the door shut and then up we go." Stain leaned back and relaxed. "I would suggest you brace yourselves. This ride is quite exciting."
Suddenly it felt as if my body was being thrust upwards at a great rate. My body felt heavier and I could barely move my arms. I looked over and could see that the others were experiencing the same sensations. We were shooting up the tube, rocking and bobbing against the walls. I could hear some of my companions making worried sounds. None seemed to be panicking, yet they were worried. As quickly as it started the movement seemed to halt. The barrel was rocking around until it was shoved sideways and I could hear more voices from outside the barrel. The door opened and more people looked in. Surprised sounds were made and Stain called out to them. He untied himself and exited the barrel. I could hear him explaining something. He stuck his head back in and stated, "Everyone get undone and let's move on. We are almost at the top of the mountain, maybe an hour's climb from the Air Guardian's lair."
We got untied and headed out. The barrel was tied up at what looked like a dock. As I watched another barrel popped up out of the water like a cork. It floated towards the dock where workers grabbed it with large hooks and moved it to the docks. It seemed as if it was a very organized system. Stain was standing off to one side, talking to what was obviously someone in charge. Once we were all out of the barrel and on the dock, our barrel was moved out of the way and more tied to the dock. We quickly cleared the dock and headed away from the water. The important person was talking to Stain in a language that sounded like thick liquid being poured over rocks. They led the way to a tunnel. The person shook Stain's hand and then headed back to the docks.
"This is our path. It leads to an exit that is just outside the lair. We climb upwards from here on out, yet our climb is much less than it would have been outside the mountain." With that he turned and headed deeper into the tunnel. We followed, Conium bringing up the rear.
After an hour we reached a massive door seemingly carved from the very rock it rested against.
"This is our exit. We should be safe here, if the guardian is keeping this area of the mountain clear of intruders." He put his hand against the rock. I could feel magic and then the door creaked open, exposing a mountain clearing. Looking around as we exited I could see a large compound up the hill. It was much larger than I anticipated, yet it was a welcome site. A well worn path traveled from the exit towards the compound. Stain smiled, "Breezy, did you know this is where most of your supplies exit?"
The large cat looked at Stain, "I knew something of this, just not the full extent." She padded ahead of us. "I will let him know you are here and will soon arrive." With that she bounded off towards the compound.
Stain shook his head, "Let us get going. I could use some food and a few moments to rest." He headed up the same path Breezy had taken.
* * *
"So, Stain you come again to assert your authority as High Mage once more." A booming voice called out from above the shut gate. We looked up and saw a tall man leaning over the gate. "Too bad. Go away and I will leave you and your party in peace."
We all looked at each other in worry. I looked to Stain and realized that he was grinning.
"Open the door, you old goat, before I embarrass you in front of all your pupils." Stain stood tall as he called this out.
The man feigned offense, "How dare you call me old? You who are older than these mountains!"
Stain shook his head, "We are tired. Shall we continue this inside?"
The man nodded and waved behind himself. "Open the gate and lead our guests to their quarters!"
The gates swung open and we entered the largest single compound I had ever laid eye upon. It looked large enough to house hundreds. Servants stood off to the side and escorted different members of our party to various areas. Tag and Evins were led off to what looked to be a stable yard. The rest of us had our own escorts. Stain hugged the man who had called to us.
"It is good to see you again Stain!" He said. "It has been too long." Walking beside us he exchanged news of the kingdom.
Our escort, a young man, led us deep into the compound until we reached a small building. He opened the door and motioned us inside. We entered a small yet spacious room. It was obviously designed for long term visits. There was even an area for preparing food.
"Ah, it is good to be back here." Stain sat in a chair that seemed to mold to him. He looked quite comfortable.
"You are being rude again. Introductions Stain!" The man sat in another chair. He looked intently at us.
Stain nodded, "Very well Victor." Stain pointed at me, "My apprentice, Ott."
Victor looked at me, "It is good to meet you Ott. I am glad you made it here safely. I have many questions for you and even a few challenges." He turned back to Stain. "What about the rest?"
Stain proceeded to explain quickly who everyone was and some minor details. At pertinent points Victor asked questions or offered new information. After a short time everyone had been introduced or described. Victor stood up. "I can see that your travels have tired you. Tomorrow will be soon enough for the sharing of the rest of your story." He turned to me. "Tomorrow you start to learn air magic. Some others have also arrived who desire to help teach you. Stain will not be your main teacher, I will be. And I refuse to spoil my students." With that last parting shot he strode out of the cabin.
We sat for a moment and soaked in what all had just occurred
"Well that went rather well." Stain stood up. "I am glad he is so willing to teach you. He has a natural ability to teach Air magic. Also I think some variety in your lessons will do you some good." He grabbed his pack and walked into another room. From the other room he called out, "Settle your travel gear, the rest will be stored or brought here. After you settle your gear we will be going to the main building for food."
I nodded and headed for another doorway. A large room filled with furniture and empty spaces for my stuff. I spent a few minutes unpacking.
"Ott! Time to eat!" Stain's voice
called from the main room.
I walked in, having just settled the last of my travel gear. Stain stood there, impatient to be off. I smiled and followed my master to the main building. We entered the large building amidst the sounds and smells of a large feast being placed. Tables laden with all sorts of food and drink were arranged around the room. People were coming in and taking seats at what seemed like their normal places. The entire thing was chaos yet there was a rhythm. Looking around I saw Raven and the others across the room. Stain saw them about the same time.
"Go ahead and join them. I will need to sit with Victor at the main table." With that he walked away and towards a platform with a large table. Victor already sat at the head seat, talking to some people on either side of his chair. Stain approached and took a seat just down from Victor, much like he already knew where he would need to be. I turned and made my way through the room to Raven's table. As I walked up I realized that there were people there that I did not know. I slowed down and walked around the table to sit between Raven and Conium. I looked at the other people sitting there. There was a man and a woman. The man had dark red hair and a face that said he laughed a lot. I had never seen a woman like this one. Her short hair was jet black, so much so that it seemed to have blue highlights. Her face seemed odd, slightly flattened with eyes that seemed to be slanted slightly and shaped like gems. I realized I was staring because of the humorous look she was giving me.
"My apologies" I blushed and Raven chuckled quietly.
"It is fine, young man." The woman spoke softly. Her voice held an accent that was strong yet I could still understand her well. "I am used to being an oddity in this area." She smiled.
"My wife is quite the oddity, being as she's from the other side of the world." The man spoke strongly. He smiled and put his arm around her shoulders. "Perhaps there will be time to share our story later. For now introductions and food." He pointed to his wife, "My lovely exotic wife, Mei-Lin." He pointed at his chest, "I am Gavin. We are the McHare's. As in rabbit." Reaching forward he grabbed a bowl and held it out for Mei-Lin to take some bread. She took a few rolls and then took the bowl so Gavin would be able to get some also. We passed bowls, baskets, and other containers around the table. Each individual took whatever they wanted and passed it on to their neighbor. Before too long everything was set down and we were eating. All around the room it grew quieter as other diners started eating also. I looked up at the main table and saw that they also were eating yet also talking in hushed tones. From the looks of those at the table Stain was explaining our travels to them. Victor looked up a few times and I could tell he was disturbed.
"Perhaps you would provide some form of introduction for yourselves? Tell us a little about who you are?" Mei-Lin prodded gently.
I looked around the table and realized that everyone was going to follow my lead.
"My name is Ott. I was raised to be a forester who could also make baskets. I recently learned that I am a mage and am now apprenticed to Stain." I was not sure what else I could share.
Mei-Lin nodded and looked at Gavin. "We surmised as much." She turned to Raven. "How about you dear?"
Raven smiled, "My name is Raven. I am traveling with Ott and Stain. I have been trained to be a knife juggler." She also withheld important information.
Mei-Lin looked at Raven for a second, as if waiting for more. "Well, perhaps the rest will come with trust." Turning to Conium, "How does the practical jokester do?"
Conium smiled, "I think I am doing well. How have you two been doing in your travels?" She obviously already knew the couple.
Gavin leaned forward, "Our travels have been odd. But that is for tomorrow." He turned to Pat, "It is a pleasure to meet you my friend. I have had occasions to meet other dragonetts. Most times it has been enjoyable."
Pat laughed, "Sounds like you have had some interesting meetings."
Gavin nodded, his eyes lit up with humor. "Perhaps it could be put that way." Turning to Mophar, "I believe you, furry sir, are what is called a lemur. From down south?"
Mophar's eyes grew suspicious "How would you know this sir?"
Gavin grew serious. "I have helped to try to return some of your kind back to their homes. Some we were able to save. Some we could not."
Mophar's suspicion seemed to settle.
Mei-Lin turned to Fiosrach, "And you young gargoyle. You must be on your trek to find your protection place."
Fiosrach smiled and shook his head, "I have already found it in Ott."
This was met with silence and surprised looks. Mei-Lin recovered fastest. "Very well. I have never heard of such a thing, yet a young mage could do with plenty of protection. Even from himself at times." She elbowed Gavin gently. He smiled and nodded.
"I probably needed a minder when I was younger." He said this through a small chuckle. Mei-Lin nodded with a smile.
We continued talking about small subjects as we ate. We discussed the weather, basic magic theories, even the food. Before too long had passed Stain appeared at my shoulder.
"Ott, I see you have met Mei-Lin and Gavin. Good." He grasped my shoulder, "Please come with me a moment, Raven you also. We will be back." With that he turned and walked to a nearby doorway.
Raven and I excused ourselves and followed. Once outside Stain looked around and cast out a shield. I could tell it was for a private conversation.
"We have some problems and some good things. First, the problems." Stain took a deep breath, "There might be a spy here. Victor has been having a few minor problems, but seen in light of our journey here and the issue we faced I would say a spy might be the root of his problems."
Raven and I sighed and looked around. "I guess that limits what we can do and who we can talk to?" I asked Stain.
Stain nodded, "For the moment. Although you chose good people to eat with, you may trust them totally." This statement made an impact, it was not often Stain whole heartedly endorsed anyone. "The other news is as I feared. Victor wishes to test you Ott." He looked at me and frowned. "The problem is he will not discuss anything about what he wants to test or how he plans on testing you. I fear it will be complicated, yet I know he is faithful to the kingdom and the king. So please just do your best." Turning to Raven, "I do not want you discussing your mage abilities with anyone unless I specifically tell you to do so. Mei-Lin, Gavin, and Victor are all that I consider important enough to allow." He smiled , "Now some good news. You both will be having more instruction in magic while we are here. Victor has agreed that once you pass his tests he will arrange everything. I believe Mei-Lin and Gavin are making plans to be involved also." This startled me slightly, which Stain noticed. "They are both very different mages yet are considered the same basic type of mage. They are both air battle mages. You will learn the difference in their styles of fighting." Stain stopped and looked around. "Be on your guard, keep an eye on each other. No unneeded magic for a while. Practice? Yes. Playing around? Not right now." With that he led us back into the main hall and waved us to our seats. He returned to his.
We both sat down and looked around. Everyone else at the table just looked back.
"Well?" Conium asked.
"I guess we are on high alert for now." Raven muttered. She looked annoyed.
Pat asked, "What is going on?"
I looked around and replied, "We can not really discuss it here, but Stain vouched for Gavin and Mei-Lin."
Everyone looked at the couple and sighed.
"Good!" Mophar exclaimed. "That makes things easier."
I nodded and addressed the couple. "Stain made it clear we can share more with you, however I feel this is neither the time nor the place."
Mei-Lin nodded. "Some is already known to us, like each of your abilities in magic. Some we are blind to as of yet." She looked around. "I believe Victor has plans for us while you are here, perhaps to instruct."
Gavin nodded also, "That sounds like Victor." He looked up at the main table and thought for a moment. "He is fairly devious. Remember
that no matter what else. He is a good mage, just a devious one."
Mei-Lin commented, "I would suggest that we all keep in pairs at the very least. I believe all of our accommodations are near one another. We can watch out for each other."
Gavin stood up and helped Mei-Lin up. "Tomorrow we will discuss much more. For now we wish you a good night. Welcome and sleep well." Mei-Lin placed her hand on Gavin's arm and they slowly walked out of the room.
We all sat there for a few minutes and ate while pondering the two mages.
Stain sat down. "Well, I am tired. Ott, are you about ready to settle for the night?"
With his question the realization of how tired I was hit me. "I am more than ready." I stood up and motioned to my friends to join me. "Good night ladies, we shall see you in the morning."
Conium and Raven wished us a good night and stood up, heading to bed.
As we made our way to our accommodations I looked around. Many of the buildings seemed to be either closed up or in a state of repair.
When I mentioned this to Stain he nodded, "Victor did not establish the original settlement here. He simply discovered it and has been working hard to open all the buildings and structures for use. It is slow work yet he has made very good progress." Stain pointed off at the gate. "Some things he has improved. The gate is much stronger than the one here before."
We entered our cabin and everyone found a place to sleep for the night. I climbed into bed and thought how much my life had changed. Tomorrow I would be tested by the Kingdom's Air Guardian. What the test would be or how I would do weighed upon my mind, yet I found myself drifting off to sleep.
A Deepening Knowledge (A Life of Magic) Page 14