The Merchant and the Menace

by Daniel F McHugh

‘Goodbye, my love. We are done on this world.’ whispered Awoi.

  Amird howled in triumph. Both blades plunged through rents in the shield and found their mark in Awoi’s stomach. The green orb immediately dissipated and Awoi fell to his knees, arms and head thrown back. Amird laughed, channeling more fire down the wicked blades as he twisted them in his brother’s stomach.

  ‘Noooooo!’ screamed Gretcha.

  Her broad-bladed ax crashed down on Amird. Gretcha’s strength was that of five men and the ax penetrated the protective flame. It lodged in Amird’s shoulder. The Deceiver cried out in pain.

  Instantly, Awoi’s head and arms sprang forward. His powerful hands locked onto his brother’s wrists. Awoi wrenched himself forward, ramming the twin blades further through his own body. The brothers’ faces nearly touched. Amird writhed in agony attempting to break free. Awoi stared deeply into his brother’s eyes.

  ‘It is time to return to our Master. Repent, and even now he will accept you to his bosom.’ whispered Awoi.

  ‘Never!’ slavered Amird.

  Awoi closed his eyes but his iron grip held Amird close. Awoi’s body convulsed. Amird fought to break free. A green wall of light burst from Awoi and swept across Amird, scouring him of the scarlet flame and pushing it high into the sky. The bodies of both guides fell to the ground lifeless.

  The flawless wall of green light pushed the sparking, leaping clutter of crimson flame toward the heavens. The auras hesitated in the sky, struggling with one another. The red fire abruptly fled from the green wall and fell to the earth, dissipating over many leagues of mountainous terrain. The green light stopped and swirled once below the clouds, then formed an orb and shot upward, out of Gretcha’s sight and into the heavens.

  Gretcha fell to her knees and buried her face in her hands. She sobbed for hours at the loss of her love. The brothers’ bodies lay on the earth as they were created, side-by-side. The giant woman stood and walked to the fallen pair. She bent low and grasped the handle of her ax, wrenching it from the shoulder of Amird’s body. She hefted the fallen Seraph onto her shoulders and carried him to the pile of readied timber. Somberly she tossed his body amidst the dried logs and set the entire pile aflame. Immediately the woodpile turned into an inferno, its dry timber hissing and popping in the cool mountain air.

  Gretcha returned to her fallen hero. Awoi’s body lay in a deepening pool of blood. The earth around the clearing was stained crimson. Gretcha gently lifted Awoi’s body and carried it to their cabin. She stripped him naked and cleansed the blood from his body. She retrieved a white linen cloth and carefully wrapped him. Next, she set out for the mountain’s summit. It towered over the other mountains in the Northern Range. When she neared the top, the Zodrian princess sought out a suitable cave.

  The wind and snow whipped her face as she sealed the cave’s mouth and departed the mountainside. She descended the mountain and traveled west, eager never to stare upon its horrible slopes again. The slopes that held the resting place of the only human who knew her for what she was, a lovely creation of her honored God.”

  “So Amird was destroyed that day, along with Awoi,” stated Kael.

  “His physical body was destroyed that day,” returned Teeg, “but we are not solely made of skin and bone. Amird was a creature of special ability. He was a favored servant of Avra. When we leave the body we inhabit in this world, our spirit returns to the force from where it came.”

  “Where is that?” asked Kael.

  “Why to Avra himself,” said Teeg. “All men are creations of Avra. Avra takes them back to him when they pass over.”

  “So Awoi and Amird returned to the spirit pool of Avra?” asked Kael.

  “Awoi returned, that is true, but Amird chose a different path,” replied Teeg. “Amird’s soul was meant to go to Avra, but since he rejected his Creator, his soul was banished from Avra’s presence. The evil Seraph was without life and a physical presence on this world. His spirit however, was able to survive. He has lost command of it but it does exist.

  “Amird’s spirit is sustained by Chaos. The ever present power that tries to breakdown and corrupt all good that we accomplish on this world. Amird has become the essence of evil. His spirit moves through the lifeforce pool as a chaotic wave. He is unable to maintain his spiritual presence for long but he affects all he touches. Those who are strong in spirit are unaffected when he passes. Temptations and notions of evil are brushed away as soon as they arrive. Their strength resists the suggestions from Amird and Chaos.

  “The weak willed fall easily into the trap of Amird. They are like the flame of a candle when Amird’s spirit blows by them. Bending this way and that to his every whim, easily controlled. He sways them with unfulfilled dreams, lusts and passions.

  “Amird believes that since he is able to affect others with the powers of Chaos, he will become all-powerful if he plunges the world into Chaos. If you are turned to the ways of Amird, you will help bring about more Chaos and evil. The more Chaos and evil in the world, the stronger Amird’s foothold here becomes. One day he intends to use his army to challenge the Creator himself, stripping away control of this world.”

  “But ... but he’s dead,” said Kael.

  “Again I ask you to put aside your notions of life and death. Amird lost his physical self on this world, but his presence and power are as great as ever. He influences minds and directs events through his hold over thousands of servants. Those who worship him, do anything for him,” stated Teeg.

  “What of Awoi? Why didn’t his spirit stay to combat Amird?” questioned Kael.

  “Awoi and Amird’s time on this world ended. Awoi understood that and happily departed to join his Creator. Amird is the one who refused to obey.”

  “Well, what happened to Gretcha and her child?” asked Kael.

  “Gretcha traveled west. She remained in the mountains and their foothills for fear of encountering people. Finally, she came to the lands where the Northern Mountains met the Western range. It was uninhabited, rough terrain. Ice cold winters full of stinging sleet, and summers as hot as any on this world. Gretcha built a cabin in the cradle of these mountain ranges. There she lived happily and gave birth to a child she named Hrafnu. Old tongue for ‘memories’.”

  “Hrafnu the giant?” said Kael.

  “Hrafnu the founder of the Keltaran,” corrected Teeg.

  “But he was evil,” stated Kael. “He killed hundreds of Zodrians in the first Keltar wars. He started the feud with our people a thousand years ago. He was an outlaw.”

  “He was a man, Kael, just like any other. He dreamed dreams and held passions. All stories have two sides. A great ruler learns to hear both of those sides in order to make an informed decision.“

  “That may be fine for a great ruler, but this innkeeper’s son is confident who the enemy is. The Keltaran are the enemy.”

  “As you wish,” smiled Teeg.

  “So Granu is a Keltaran prince?” questioned Kael.

  “Yes,” replied Teeg. “A direct descendant of Hrafnu.”

  The old Elf paused and considered if he should say more.

  “That’s enough for you to absorb in one day,“ said Teeg. “Perhaps we might resume this chat later and I’ll answer more of your questions.”

  “No, please. I have so many,” protested Kael desperately. “Like, why has my father been called to Zodra? What’s this nonsense of calling him a duke? I need answers.”

  “And so you shall receive them. Slowly Kael, slowly. Be patient,” replied Teeg.

  “I’m tired of being patient. Too much has happened and too little explained!”

  The door opened and in walked Ader.

  “Tired of being patient. Is that what I heard?” laughed Ader. “I’m not sure you’re aware of what true patience is, Kael. You worry over hours while I have sometimes waited centuries for a particular occurrence to take place. Relax, in due time all will be explained.”

  “I’m not sure I’m ready for due time,” frowned Kael.


  “You may not be ready, but we are,” said Ader shaking his head. “No matter, we’re off to Zodra in the morning. For now, I ask you to remain in your quarters and get a good night’s rest. Will you do as I request?”

  Kael lowered his head and stared at his shoes.

  “Yes,” he replied.

  CHAPTER 11: DOWN THE WINDING STAIRCASE

  Kael slept poorly. Questions ran through his mind. The encounter with Methra haunted him. What did he do, and could he do it again? Part of him was fascinated with the power he displayed. Part of him was terrified. He had felt so exhausted, frightened and angry all at once. He had let himself go, let his mind takeover. He was desperate to protect Ader, end the insanity of the last two days, and hurt the creature that killed his brother. These desires welled up and created whatever it was he hurled at the Malveel.

  He tossed and turned in the night. When he felt he was finally giving in to sleep, the diffused light of the morning forest filtered into his room. Knowing he was about to embark on an exciting journey made him even more restless. Kael rose and dressed. He opened his door a sliver and stole a glance down the hallway. Perhaps he might find more answers this morning.

  Eirtwin stood in the observatory staring East over the treetops of the Nagur as the rising sun splashed the canopy with light. Kael hesitated on the final stair of the tower and contemplated his decision to come here. After all, it may be the only solitary moment the queen was allowed each and every day.

  “Why do you falter, Kael Brelgson?” asked the queen without turning.

  “I ... I beg your pardon. I realized I might be interrupting a special time for you,” replied Kael.

  “You simply exchange one special moment for another,” smiled the queen. “What is it that I can do for you? You knew I was here, so I assume you didn’t come for the view.”

  “I,” Kael hesitated. “I’m feeling a bit lost.”

  “And you hoped I might be able to help you find your ‘way’ so to speak?” asked Queen Eirtwin.

  “Exactly,” answered Kael.

  “Ask me what you will, Kael, and if I am able to adequately answer your questions, I shall.”

  “Is my father really a duke?” asked Kael.

  “Yes, and a rather silly first question I might add,” laughed Eirtwin. “When the prince heir of the kingdom in question announces the exact thing in a room crowded with people, you can believe it to be true.”

  “I suppose,” smiled Kael “Then how about the prince heir. Is he really the next King of Zodra?”

  “Another silly question,” frowned Eirtwin. “You must open your eyes and begin to see and believe that which is around you. I referred to Manfir as the prince heir in this conversation. Would I now say he was not?”

  “No, I suppose not,” mumbled Kael.

  “Time is a rare commodity. Think before you speak,” advised Eirtwin. “One day people will be counting on you to act quickly and decisively. Stumbling around before getting to the point might be disastrous.”

  “Yes, I’ll try,” said Kael searching his mind for the true questions it held. “Why did Ader and Manfir appear to me in disguise for so many years?”

  “The forces of Chaos search for ways to destroy Ader and those who serve with him. Ader disguises his true nature to protect his allies from reprisal. This in turn protects mere acquaintances. Contact by anyone with Ader places their life in danger,” stated the queen.

  “Am I a mere acquaintance of Ader’s, or am I an ally with more at stake?” asked Kael.

  “You’re learning,” smiled Eirtwin. “I was vague. Presenting you with two alternatives to your question in hopes that you assumed the most favorable. Most would love to make a leap in logic that all that occurred is happenstance, bad luck. Those with insight and a keen intellect will pursue extra avenues and ferret out the truth.

  “Yes, you are an ally. Yes, you have much more at stake, although, if you search yourself, you know this to be true. Your performance against Methra bears that out.”

  “If I’m an ally, then who is the enemy? Ader makes alliances with some strange folk. The prince of Keltar stood in your halls and nothing was done because of Ader,” stated Kael.

  “The prince of Keltar is an ally, or at least we believe him to be at this point,” said Eirtwin. “Often, you must go on faith. Believe that which seems unbelievable.”

  “I would like to stick with what Manfir believes. Keltaran are evil. They are butchers. I’m unwilling to trust any of them,” snapped Kael.

  “Have you ever met a Keltaran before?” asked Eirtwin.

  “Well, no.” replied the boy.

  “Again I caution you to be open and mindful of all that occurs around you. Past prejudices hold no bearing upon the future. To dismiss the help of a man such as Granu, without first interacting with and understanding him, is folly. You may destroy the most important alliance you enjoy,” stated Eirtwin.

  “What of your alliances? Why do the Elves side with Ader?” asked Kael.

  “There is a distinct difference between good and evil. It is true that we are not from this world. However, it is also true that we are born from the same Creator. We are all servants of Avra and must fight against the forces of Chaos wherever we find them.”

  “What do you mean you’re not from this world?” questioned Kael.

  “We are from a different ... existence. We are just visitors here. Granted, we’ve dwelt here a long, long time, but we still consider ourselves visitors,” smiled Eirtwin.

  Kael looked puzzled.

  “Avra’s creation is not limited to this one world,” continued Eirtwin. “He is the Master and Creator of many places. There exist levels of beings all fashioned for a different purpose. This world is but one of his realms.”

  “You are from a different ... world?” asked Kael.

  The queen smiled and waved a hand out over the Nagur.

  “Not a world as this is, but a world nonetheless.”

  Kael paused and reflected on all he learned. Avra, worlds created, races formed and evil rising. These issues were far too weighty for a boy from a small, backwards village. Forces greater than he imagined were at play. He wished to go back to his old life if he might, one day hoping to run “The King’s Service” and let his father retire.

  “How does all of this connect with me?” asked Kael.

  “I told you I would answer your questions. I also told you that time is a rare commodity and a leader must get to the heart of the matter expediently. I’m afraid your time is up,” stated Eirtwin glancing over Kael’s shoulder.

  Kael turned to see Ader standing at the top of the stairs. The old man bowed to Eirtwin and glanced at Kael.

  “What am I missing?” he asked.

  “A brief lesson,” answered Eirtwin.

  “Of what or whom I wonder,” frowned Ader.

  “Do not fret, Lord Ader, your wishes are being kept,” replied Eirtwin.

  “It’s time we left, Kael,” said Ader. ”The others rose and prepared their mounts. I must return you to your father and attend to some pressing business in Zodra. If you finished your enlightening lesson with her majesty, I would like you to accompany me to the stables.”

  Kael nodded and headed toward the stairs. On an impulse he spun and knelt before Queen Eirtwin softly taking her hand.

  “Thank you for everything,” said Kael. “Your attention comforts me in a troubling time.”

  “Your visit delights me,” answered Eirtwin. “Take care on the road ahead.”

  Kael and the old trader descended the stairs and headed toward the stables. They walked along in silence and Kael stared ahead lost in thought.

  “You seem preoccupied,” commented Ader.

  Kael walked on without responding.

  “I said, you seem preoccupied,” repeated Ader a bit louder.

  Kael blinked and looked to the old man.

  “Oh, I’m sorry. I wasn’t paying attention. ‘Preoocupied’? Oh, ah, yes I guess I am,” s
hrugged Kael. “It’s Queen Eirtwin. Every time we speak I find myself questioning whether I’m being the best person I can be. She makes me want to do great things.”

  “She affects quite a few people in that manner,” smiled Ader. “A remarkable woman.”

  They proceeded down the hall and exited the palace into the stable yard. An unusual party was arrayed across the yard. Manfir stood close to the stables stroking the neck of his mighty black warhorse. Eidyn and Teeg stood in the center of the yard strapping pouches to the backs of a pair of white stallions. The horses were outfitted with neither saddle nor reins. Just a simple lead and a light riding cloth adorned the Elves’ mounts. Kael barely noticed the large figure of Granu standing stone still in the shadows of a large apple tree. The giant wore his black robe with the hood pulled up and over his head. His face was barely visible in the darkness of the robe. In his hand, Granu carried his enormous walking staff. As Kael and Ader stepped from the doorway, Ader’s big gray stallion and Kael’s chestnut trotted from the stables and approached them.

  “It seems your little mare chooses you, not you it,” laughed Ader.

  Kael smiled and patted the beautiful horse’s head. The stable boys saddled the mare and Kael’s pouches were resupplied. He turned and greeted Teeg and Eidyn.

  “Good morning, Lord Teeg,” bowed Kael. “Good morning, Prince Eidyn.”

  “Since we’ll be traveling companions, Kael, I prefer we also try to be friends,” said Eidyn. “Ader and my parents vouch for you, and that is all I need to know. Please forgive me for our initial meeting. I don’t regret exercising my duty, but I do regret getting our relationship off on a bad note.”

  “No harm was done and no offense was taken my Lor... er, I mean Eidyn. With all of the terrible things that are happening, it made sense for you to question anyone you encountered,” returned Kael.

  “Exceptionally gracious of you,” bowed Eidyn.

  “I suggest we get on the road,” stated Ader. “Events in Zodra are progressing too quickly for my taste.”

  Kael moved over to the chestnut and pulled himself up. The leather saddle creaked and the metal buckles clinked. He watched puzzled as Teeg and Eidyn turned to their mounts. The horses remained unsaddled. Eidyn gripped his stallion’s mane and threw himself onto its back effortlessly and more importantly noiselessly. A stable boy approached the prince and handed over a longbow and soft deerskin quiver full of lethal looking arrows.