“I’ll help,” Kaitra offered.
Kidreyli smiled and said jokingly, “No, my lady. I’ll take care of this. You just make yourself comfortable.”
“I told you that my lineage would come in handy one day.”
Kidreyli laughed a bit and walked over to the horse and her Katrion. She took the saddles and supplies off both of them, laying them on the ground, and then she directed her thoughts toward Tyral, “Look after Sestru, won’t you?”
“Of course. What is it?”
Kidreyli rubbed her Katrion’s nose, “I’m not sure. They didn’t seem overly happy to see us at first. Just keep an eye out and let me know if you see or hear anything unusual.”
“Absolutely,” Tyral confirmed as she urged Sestru toward the open field.
The Valtyr picked up her lover’s saddle, carried it into the hut and laid it on the floor. Then she walked back out, picked up her saddle and carried it in, placing it next to the other. She looked over at Kaitra who was eyeing some of Culain’s belongings and asked, “Shall we get some food?”
Kaitra turned to her with her wide gray eyes, holding a sheathed knife with both hands. “I made this sheath for him when I was only eight years. I can’t believe he kept it all this time.”
“He said he came here with his treasure. He must think it very special,” Kidreyli noted.
Kaitra put it back as she found it. “I suppose he does.”
he sorceress led the way to the table that the old man had spoken of. True to his word, he had gathered bread and fruit, along water to drink. Now that the sun was over the surrounding trees, its warmth was returning to the land. The table was covered in sunlight which brought comfort to her, as she was finally beginning to feel her fingers again.
“Ah, lass. There ya are. Please sit and eat,” Culain offered.
“Your generosity is greatly appreciated,” Kaitra said as she took a seat next to Kidreyli across the table from him.
Culain continued, “So why are ya up ‘ere so far north? The last I knew you were in that temple down south.”
“How did you know about that?” Kaitra asked as she took a piece of bread.
“Your mother dispatched me a few times t’ make sure you were well. She was very worried ‘bout ya so far from home.”
“How is she doing?”
“Last time I saw her she seemed healthy and happy. Now that the two of ya had moved on, she was spendin’ more time tendin’ t’ the needs of the Ardreach. I think she misses both a ya more than she wants t’ let on.”
Kaitra explained, “That temple you speak of, it was attacked by the Rutalans. I was saved by Kidreyli, who just happened to be in the area.”
“Sounds like the fates brought the two of ya together,” he opined. “Those Rutalans are a brutal bunch. Someday someone will need to bring an end t’ their outlaw ways.”
The sorceress vehemently concurred, “I’ll agree with you on that.”
“So did ya pick up any of that sorcery you were lookin’ for?”
Kaitra smiled and formed a small green energy ball in her right hand.
Culain’s eyes lit up, “Well done, lass.”
Kidreyli interjected, “There are some who believe that she is one of the most powerful mages on the continent. And she’s pretty adept with a bow as well.”
“I don’t know why I should be surprised. All in your blood line are quite exceptional at things they put their minds to,” Culain stated. “So, go on, tell me how ya two ended up ‘ere?”
Kaitra said, “Recently we got word that Kidreyli’s mother was dying, so we are headed to Lynbuañan to meet up with her. She is to be there in three days.”
He looked at the Valtyr with forlorn eyes, “I’m very sorry t’ hear ‘bout your mother.”
“Thank you,” Kidreyli replied.
“I’ve heard tell that a Valtyr bondin’ with an outsider results in loss of birthright, or worse,” Culain said.
Kidreyli’s pained smile was her confirmation.
Then it occurred to Culain, “You’re meetin’ your mother at Lynbuañan ‘cause ya can’t go home. You must truly love Kaitra, t’ ‘ave given up so much.”
“I love her with all that I am,” she responded.
“Lynbuañan is a beautiful place,” he said. “Some days I go up there and just soak it all in. In all m’ travels, I’ve not found a more spiritual place.”
Kaitra picked up a fruit and continued, “Once we have visited with her mother, we are off to deal with a man known as Satreka at Caerlyk.”
Culain held up his hand, looked about anxiously and spoke softly, “Shhh, my dear. Best not t’ speak ‘bout such things when others can ‘ear. They ‘ave ears everywhere.”
Kidreyli whispered through the bread she was chewing, “So you know of him.”
“Aye, lass. Most brutal bunch I’ve ever seen. The Scecians moved inta this area ‘bout a year ago and started settin’ up shop. Rumor has it they are buildin’ a large force with the intent t’ rule over the lands south of Dhoya and Valtyr. I ‘eard your father’s concern over this before I left. He believed it inevitable that they would challenge the more established cultures in the near future, most likely the Valtyr first.”
Kaitra quietly confirmed, “We have heard that as well. That is why we are going to challenge them and kill Satreka.”
Culain’s voice rose up in typical brogue, “Just the two a ya?”
“That’s when we’re at our best,” Kidreyli smiled, ripping a piece of bread from a small loaf.
“No, no, no. Listen, both a ya. These men are some a the best trained fighters I’ve seen. They kill for enjoyment and exhibit no remorse. Their ranks ‘ave grown to such numbers that your father’s forces would be challenged by them.”
“It’s all right, my friend,” Kaitra said. “We are counting on stealth and surprise to give us the advantage. It will not be easy, but it must be done. These people must be stopped.”
“You’re as stubborn as ever, lass,” Culain smiled. “I could go t’ your father and explain t’ him what you are plannin’. I’m certain he would send supportin’ forces t’ back ya.”
“Would he send Lycali?” Kaitra asked.
“You know ‘bout her?” surprise lit up his eyes.
“I had heard rumors.”
Culain confirmed, “Well, the rumors are true. Your father made her commander o’ his forces. She turned out t’ be a superior warrior.”
“Did she marry Sestridge?”
“Aye, she did. Quite a pair they make, I tell ya. The two o’ them spend as much time sparrin’ as they do makin’ love.”
Kaitra laughed and said, “Sounds like they were certainly matched from the very beginning.”
“Just like the two of you,” he noted.
The girls were surprised at his comment.
Culain continued, “The way your eyes light up when ya look at each other is tellin’. Anyone could see it.”
Kidreyli said as she took a bite of a fruit, “Tell me about these villagers.”
He smiled, “They are good people. They allowed me t’ join their village some months back. They like to keep to themselves and are wary of strangers, as ya prob’ly noticed. They’re just trying to scratch out a livin’ on the land here and raise their families as best as they can. I think their elders, especially Keril, who greeted ya earlier, are worried ‘bout the Scecian influence spreadin’ this way. They have ‘eard of the goings-on in Triami and the surrounding areas. It weighs on his mind.”
The old soldier saw out the corner of his eye the approach of Keril, his wife and a handful of children with expectant looks on their faces. “Looks like you’ve drawn the attention o’ the locals.”
As Keril approached, he said, “My lady, these children were wondering if they could ask some questions of you. You see, they’ve never seen a princess before.”
“Of course they may,” Kaitra replied, always happiest and content holding court.
Kidreyli spoke in her thoug
hts to the girl, “Keep your magical abilities to yourself.”
Kaitra looked at her and smiled, acknowledging what she said.
The princess continued, “So, go on then. What would you like to know?”
A little girl of about seven years perked up and clumsily curtseyed, “What’s it like to live in a castle?”
Kaitra smiled and walked over to the girl, “Here, here. Let me show you how to properly do that.” She stood next to the girl and demonstrated a deep and flowing curtsey. “This is how it is done in court. You try it. Remember, determined, graceful motions.”
The little girl replicated Kaitra’s effort with surprising precision.
She was graciously complimentary, “Well done, little one. Sometimes it takes a little practice, but that was very good. So you wish to know of the castle? Oh there’s nothing quite like it. Always surrounded by nobles and knights, emissaries from far-away lands, and exceptional soldiers like Culain, it’s really exciting. But it’s a lot of work too. Lots of pomp and ceremony, and having to dress in those silly, bulky outfits. You’re always forced to do things you don’t really want to do, but it is expected that you always look happy and content. So you paint a smile on your face and do your duty. It is the price one pays for the privileged life you have.”
A boy of about nine years asked, “What is the king like?”
“My father is a strong and powerful leader. He commands great respect from all those he encounters. He has fought in many great battles over the years and he has garnered the unwavering loyalty of those who are with him. He has made friends with most of the surrounding cultures and his efforts have maintained the peace in our region for a generation. From my experience, he is also a very loving and nurturing father. He always took time from the demands of his station to be with me and my sister when we were growing up. He would play with us and tell us stories of times long ago. No one could ask for a better father and friend.”
“So why are you way out here?” a girl of nine asked.
Kaitra looked to the sky, “Now that you bring it up, I’m not really sure?”
The children looked perplexed.
The sorceress laughed, “I got you.”
All in attendance laughed with her.
She explained, “Actually, I came out here to learn from the peoples and places that I never got to see growing up, and I’m really glad I did. I found someone to spend the rest of my life with,” she pointed to Kidreyli. “I met all kinds of people from such diverse backgrounds, and they all had something to teach me. I would have never understood the world around us if I had not traveled and engaged those I encountered.”
The same boy as before asked, “Are you headed home?”
She thought for a moment and then said, “You know, I’m not so sure what ‘home’ means. I’ve come to realize that home is wherever, or, rather, with whomever, your spirit finds ultimate and eternal happiness. It doesn’t necessarily need to be a place. But if you’re referring to Dhoya, I don’t think so right now. Maybe later, perhaps. I’m content to continue my journey and see where it leads. You never know what you’ll find over the next ridge.”
Keril stepped into the conversation, “All right, young ones. I think we’ve taken enough time with her ladyship. Let’s leave her be to get back to her business.”
Kaitra said, “I really enjoyed our time. If you would like, I will tell you a story after the evening meal of heroes and heroines and great times past.”
The children’s faces lit up.
Keril said, “That’s not necessary, my lady.”
“It would be my honor,” she responded. “So, after evening meal, then?”
The children ran away to their play with great anticipation in their eyes.
Keril said, “My lady, allow me to introduce my mate, Liane.”
“It’s an honor to meet you, my lady,” she said as she bowed.
“And you.”
Liane offered, “If you need anything during your stay, please let me know.”
“You’re all very kind, thank you.”
Keril and Liane both bowed and took their leave.
Kaitra turned back to the table to see two broad smiles staring at her. “What?”
Kidreyli said, “Being ‘the princess’ really fills your heart.”
“As I’ve told you before, I’m just more comfortable when I’m around people.”
The both of them sat motionless staring at her, clearly not buying what she was selling.
The princess relented, “All right, all right.” A dramatic pause, then, “It’s good to be royal. There, I said it.”
Kidreyli and Culain laughed out loud.
Kaitra noted, “You know, sometimes it’s not easy being around the two of you. You both know me too well.”
Kidreyli replied, “I wouldn’t have it any other way.”
Culain stood, “I’d love t’ stay ‘ere all day and chat, but I ‘ave some chores t’ tend to. You two relax and enjoy. Call me if ya need anythin’.”
Kaitra got up and gave him a passionate hug. “I’m so glad to have found you, my friend.”
“As am I, m’ lady.”
As Culain went off to his appointed tasks, Kidreyli asked, “Are you up for a walk?”
Kaitra nodded.
Kidreyli took her by the hand and walked toward the ridge to the east. They climbed half-way up, she taking a seat on a rock which gave them an unobstructed view of the village. Kaitra knelt behind her and repeatedly combed the warrior’s hair back with her fingers. They sat silently for several minutes, watching over the villagers tend to the day’s work.
“What’s wrong,” Kaitra asked.
“I don’t know. I can’t put my mind on it. I just have an ominous feeling about this village and our being here.”
“We could go on to Lynbuañan.”
“No, I’m sure it’s nothing. I think I’m just a little anxious about meeting with my mother.”
“Why is that?”
“I didn’t leave on the best of terms with her.”
Kaitra was sarcastic, “Why am I not so surprised about that?”
Kidreyli smirked. “Yes, well, by now she is aware that I’ve bonded with you. That probably didn’t set well at the evening meal.”
“I’m sure everything will be fine.”
“You don’t know my mother. She can be quite a handful at times.”
“How could she not love me? I’m royal, after all. That makes me quite a catch.”
Kidreyli laughed and said, “And to think I was the one to get you.”
Kaitra pulled her lover’s hair away from her neck and kissed her on the nape. She rested her chin on her shoulder and wrapped her arms around her. They stared out across the village for a few minutes in silence. Tyral was eating near Sestru in the tall grasses at the far eastern extent of the meadow. The village was buzzing with activity, with the harvesting of vegetables and late season fruit well under way. A lone cloud passed in front of the sun sending a chill through the air.
Kidreyli broke through the quiet, “Do you think we’re going down the right path with the boy?”
“What do you mean?”
“There were so many soldiers in town. I never expected that we would be facing such a formidable force.”
Kaitra had never felt such uncertainty in her mate. For Kidreyli’s confidence to wane even a bit was completely out of character, and it gave her pause. She replied, “We both knew that this was not going to be easy from the beginning. A plan will present itself and things will work out. Of this I am certain.”
“I’m not so sure anymore.”
“Maybe we should consider Culain’s offer to go to my father for assistance. I’m certain he would send as many soldiers as we needed.”
Kidreyli squeezed Kaitra’s hand, “I’m just getting this overwhelming sense that I’m about to lose you.”
“You’re not going to lose me.”
“Whenever a premonition hits me like this one has,
it nearly always comes to fruition.”
Kaitra got up and sat on Kidreyli’s lap facing her, wrapping her legs around her lover’s waist. “Then maybe you should hold me tight for a while.”
Kidreyli was still serious, “I wouldn’t be able to live without you.”
“I promise that you’ll never know what that’s like.” The sorceress kissed her passionately.
With lingering concern in the background, Kidreyli smiled and replied, “I’m going to hold you to that.”
Zakrell slowly worked his horse through a thicket of pines and undergrowth, and eventually came upon a small clearing that had been described to him by the messenger that had found him several hours earlier. The sun had crossed into the underworld, and the surrounding forest was dark and quiet in the cold evening air. In the center of the clearing was Dubhni, wrapped in a dark purple cloak, laying a course of stones to form three circles, the smallest surrounded a small fire pit, the next was larger and the last larger still, arranged so that the fire would be at the center of all three circles.
The big man dismounted and looped the reins over a low branch.
As he approached, she said, “You got here much quicker than I expected.”
“You summoned and here I am,” he smiled as he embraced and kissed her, nourishing his longing passion for her.
She caressed his cheek with her fingers, “My gentle warrior, I am so glad you are here. I have sensed that the one you seek is on a different path than originally planned, and events may be upon us. I want to seek the truth in the winds, and I want you to experience this with me.”
“I think I would rather lay you in the tall grass and have my way with you,” he said with a devious smile.
Dubhni laughed as she ran her fingers down his arm, “First things first, my love. There will be plenty of time for that later. I need some firewood. Would you mind gathering an armful for me while I finish here?”
“If I must,” Zakrell said with an anticipatory smile as he walked toward the trees on his assigned task. It took him only a few minutes in the dense, primitive forest to gather a sizable amount of dried wood and carry it back to the circle that the sorceress was completing.
As she laid the last few stones, she looked up to see his approach, “Just put it in the small circle.”
Into the Fray: Volume 1 of The Sorcerers of Jhanvia Series Page 26