by David Ekrut
“Breakfast would be lovely. You are most kind, Mistress Tilna.”
She disappeared through the doors. After a few minutes, cooking smells wafted back through. She returned with a plate of poached eggs on toast and seared ham with a small orange. After setting the plate in front of him, she handed him some silverware and filled a tankard with water.
Setting the drink beside the plate, she asked, “Would you care for anything else?”
“Only your company, if you can spare a few moments?”
She stood straighter, surprise in her expression but recovered quickly. “Aye. It’ll be a few minutes until my other patrons smell the eggs and come running. What would you like to chat about?”
“I hail from the south, where there are many rumors. What have you heard of Alcoa? Is it true, the guardians have usurped the king?” Though his cousin deserved such a fate for his foolishness, Bain hoped the rumors to be false.
Tilna shrugged. “Half those traveling through here say aye. The other half say nay. All I know for true is anarchy has befallen our capital, and the guardians are behind it.”
“They have yet to take over here,” Bain noted. He cut methodical slices into the eggs and ham as she spoke.
“Aye, well, for how long? Ships bring more of them down river every day. And they are recruiting as if readying for war. Even tried to pin posters to my board over there. When I refused, they made threats. Said changes were coming and I needed to consider strongly who I stand for. Who would have thought loyalty to the crown would be a crime?” She pointed to the wall. “So I let them pin it up. What can I do?”
Bain glanced at the board and saw the recruitment advert, offering steady wages to anyone who would join. He half-turned back to his meal before he recognized the name on one of the sketches.
“Excuse me,” Bain said, placing his fork and knife on the side of his plate.
He walked over to the board, heart pounding. His breath caught. The boy in the sketch had the Solsec cheekbones and angular chin. He looked more like Jhona, Bain’s brother, than he did Bain.
“You know the kid?” Tilna asked.
“No,” Bain said, still somewhat out of breath. He forced the words out. “I have never heard of such a bounty. A quarter of a million gold for one young man?” It took all of his will to turn away from the bounty and walk back to the bar. “Have you heard any news of this Elwin Solsec?”
“Aye,” she said, lips tight. “Dozens come through here and take note of that posting. He’s a murderer and worse. As I hear it, he attempted to assassinate the queen of Justice. He travels around calling dragons down on folk. The stories say he can control them. From my experience, every rumor has a hint of truth, at best. But that sort of gold gives credence to the tale, eh?”
Bain knew it to be false. He had never met his son, but Zeth—one of Bain’s most trusted lieutenants—had spent some time with the boy. Elwin had the gentleness of his mother and the spirit of a scholar, not a warrior. And Jasmine Lifesong was his mentor. Elwin would not harm his teacher. Plus, the dragons would not answer anyone’s call. Not yet.
“Aye,” he said at last, “At least, the guardians wish people to believe this tale. But I would not place much trust in their words.”
“Wouldn’t say that too loudly,” she said. “Not saying I disagree. The way they treat the elementalists ain’t right, but they’ll rule us soon. And dissenters have been known to go missing or be hanged.”
“Warders,” Bain said.
“Eh?”
“Have you seen those guardians with the tattoos?” he asked her.
“A few have come in. Aye.”
“Stay clear of them if you can,” he warned her. “They are the guardians’ assassins.”
“Say true?”
Bain nodded. “As I said, I hail from the south. I didn’t say how far south. I don’t advertise this, but I come from Dalton.” He gave her a moment to process the implications.
She stood straighter, eyes widening. “You live in Bain’s territory?”
“I do. I own substantial land there. Bain took over, but he isn’t the tyrant people claim. Most, myself included, live as they have before with one exception. We are free of the guardians’ prejudices. Elementalists are not murdered for coming into their powers. Since Bain’s rise, commerce has improved in the south, as well as the standard of living for the common folk.”
She pursed her lips as if pondering. She gave her head a little shake and said, “Still ain’t right. What about all the people who died fighting him?”
Bain nodded. “The casualties are lamentable, but he offered clemency to all who would swear him fealty and allowed the former lords to rule. True, Bain executed the high inquisitors of the cities he claimed. In return, the guardians have sent several of their assassins after Bain. That is the true war. It always was. In truth, Bain had hopes of convincing Thirod Alcoa of the folly of trusting the guardians. It seems the dragons have done that work for him.”
She crossed her arms over her chest. “You speak as if you know the man, personally. Supporting Bain is still treason around here. I’m a king’s woman.”
Bain held his hands up in surrender. “My apologies. I meant no offense. But as you said, the guardians are planning a revolution. They will have many difficulties conquering Southern Alcoa, thanks to Bain’s influence. Can you say the same of your city?”
She deflated. “You have me there. Sorry I bristled. I inherited this place from my mammy, and I had hopes of passing her to my own daughter or granddaughter some day. With dragons appearing and everyone warring with one another, my guard is up.”
“No apology is necessary. I understand.” Bain reached into his purse and pulled out a platinum coin with his crest on it, a hand holding a sleeping dragon. He placed it on the bar and pushed it across to her. “If times become so hard that you must move on, travel to Dalton and speak my name at the lord’s manor. This coin will give you a fresh start. I will see to it personally that you can rebuild your inn for a legacy to give to your children.”
She stared at the coin, mouth agape. After a second, she took it from the counter and studied the symbol. “I do not know what to say.”
“There is nothing more to say. You are a kind soul. I would have more like you in my lands.”
Her bottom lip quivered as she said, “Thank you, Master Mansworth.”
“It is my pleasure.”
Tucking the coin into her purse, she turned and dabbed at her eyes with a washcloth. “If you’ll excuse me, I have matters to attend in the back.”
“Of course,” he said.
When she exited, he finished his meal, which was cold but still carried a good flavor. As he stood from the stool, Lana came down the stairs, carrying her pack.
“You are already awake,” she said in way of a greeting.
“Have the others roused?”
“I heard movements in Ferious’s room as I passed. I am certain he will be down shortly.”
“Break fast and make sure the others are ready. I would like to be on our way within the hour.”
“What if no ships are departing?”
“I will take care of that.”
She nodded. “I will make sure the others are ready.”
“I know you will.”
By her expression, she would have them out the door minutes after Bain left. After the dragon in Weatherford, she scarcely let him from her sight for longer than absolutely necessary.
He grabbed his pack. She placed a hand on his arm as he turned to go. “Please take cares. We cannot afford another Weatherford.”
“Agreed. I will not take rash actions.”
Despite the doubt in her eyes, she removed her hand and stepped aside. She took a deep breath and forced a smile. “Very well, Mardic. I will see you shortly.”
Slinging his pack over hi
s shoulder, Bain left the inn.
The rising sun did little for the morning chill. Bain pulled up the cowl of his cloak and stepped into the street. The scent of fresh bread hung heavily in the air. Ahead of him, a baker’s cart moved toward the morning square. He regretted not having more time to sample the goods.
Bain turned the other direction, heading for the eastern docks. He needed to procure passage on a vessel to Iremine. The speedway would cut his time by three-quarters or more.
A patrol of Alcoan guards passed him, eyeing his weapons. But they passed without a word. Minutes later, a second patrol gave him similar suspicious looks but left him to travel unmolested. More guards stood just around the building with dozens more waiting in alleys on every side of the street, increasing in numbers as he neared the river.
Ahead, hundreds of guardians stood along the pier, each armed as if marching to war. An inquisitor, fat enough for two, stood in front of them, hands held high as if praying. But he stopped speaking as Bain approached. As one, the guardians turned to regard him. Bain pointedly kept his hands far from his weapons.
Red blotches covered the inquisitor’s wrinkled cheeks. His nose scrunched up as if smelling a foul odor.
“The docks are closed to travelers,” the man said. “What are you doing here, citizen?”
Bain felt his hackles rise. He needed a ship and would not be stalled by these fools. Taking a slow breath, he pushed aside his desires for violence. He forced himself to give a deep bow of deference and said, “My apologies, Inquisitor. I have come seeking to join your ranks. The posting I saw in the inn said you would pay fair wages?”
The man glanced at Bain’s weapons, and his expression changed to that of a merchant stumbling upon an unexpected customer. His tone became layered with false humility. “Have you, my child? The Lifebringer bless the steps that have brought you to us. And yes, the Lifebringer will provide for all those who serve him. What is your name?”
Once more, Bain had to swallow the taste of bile. Giving his false name felt like cowardice. He could seize the Elements and destroy this contingent before they could clear their swords from their scabbards.
“I am Mardic. Of house Mansworth.”
“Welcome, child.” Once more, the inquisitor’s eyes took in Bain’s weapons. “You have training with those?”
“Aye,” Bain said. “I am a master of the sword. Of the seventh jin.”
His eyes widened. “You are well-received, Mardic. The Lifebringer truly provides in our times of need.” He turned to an officer. “Harchin, get this man a uniform. We’ll need his blade this day.” Then to Bain he said, “Are you prepared to fight now?”
“I am. Who do we battle?”
“My child,” the man said, voice becoming rote, “you have no doubt seen the destruction at the hands of the accursed, who call down the wrath of the Lifebringer with these dragons. These lands are corrupted to the core. We will cut out the rot infesting our home and supplant this Seeker-wrought king with the Lifebringer’s chosen. Are you with us, child?”
“I am but a servant,” Bain bowed his head. “Where would you have me?”
The other man returned with the guardian’s cloak and breastplate. Taking the uniform and offering it to Bain, the inquisitor said, “Don this and join us in the rear. We march upon the guard tower in moments. Spare the innocents if you can, but any adorned in an Alcoan uniform must die. They’ve had ample opportunities to join us and failed to answer the Lifebringer’s call.”
Bain took the items and bowed. “The Lifebringer’s will be done.”
“The Lifebringer smile upon you, child. Find me when the fighting is through, and we will speak on your commission.”
Bain nodded and stepped aside. Once they were clear of him, Bain dropped the breastplate and cloak, feeling the need to wash his hands. Unsheathing his blade, he fell into march behind the last row of guardians.
Ahead, Alcoan guards ran from their alleyways, flooding into the streets. Steel clashed against steel. Screams echoed through alleys, announcing the first casualties of this battle.
Bain ran with his sword held high.
With a practiced swing, he severed the head of the slowest guardian. His companion let out a yelp, but Bain cut him down before the man could turn to face him. Several of them pivoted, shock quickly turning to anger.
As they came at him, Bain felt himself smile.
For the first time since the dragons had returned, Bain was almost happy not to tame. There was nothing like feeling his blade rip into the flesh of his enemies. How long had he yearned to fight the guardians in the open like this? Decades of strategies and maneuvering to feel this, only to have it ripped away from him. At least for a few minutes, he would spill their blood.
His mirth faded when he saw his savants wading into the fight from his flank. He felt the taming and ordered them to stop.
But it was too late.
Four colossal figures appeared above, bathing them in darkness.
Chapter 39
Taking Cares
Partial Spending, Day 552 of experimentation.
After the long wait for materials, I was able to transfer Abaddon’s consciousness into Subject 1. He remained in control of the body for nearly 30 seconds before the will of Subject 1 resisted. The body became catatonic for 3 minutes, 52 seconds. Then, like the corpse, the body of Subject 1 decayed to dust. This leads me to believe the vessel must be willing to receive Abaddon’s consciousness. Subject 12 might be agreeable, since he is bound to Death. Abaddon will ask him this evening in the shadow realm to yield his body. If Subject 12 accepts Abaddon’s offer, we will resume the experiment on the morrow.
Note: At 1637 Berats, the cost of this experiment was similar to the first; however, the Lance of Argious did not dissolve. Eleandarinius was able to open her eyes for a few seconds but lacked the energy to stir within her cocoon.
~Ricaria Beratum, 2996 A.S.
~
Elwin woke to the smell of cooking meat. His head ached and his tongue was dry. He tried to sit up but felt too weak.
A hand took hold of his head and lifted. “Drink this.”
Jax placed a flask to his lips and tilted. Sweet liquid spilled into his mouth. Elwin swallowed greedily.
“I found red berries,” Jax said, helping Elwin to sit. “I crushed them and mixed them into the water.”
“Thank you.”
“Drink up,” he said, moving back to the fire. “You need a tenday or two in bed, but I’m afraid we don’t have the luxury. We’ll need to move soon, even if I have to strap you to the horse.
“If we find Daki, he can heal me.”
“Aye, well, we cannot count on that before the bounty hunters find us. I have a feeling they’ll have doubled their numbers next time.”
“That is a lot of gold,” Elwin agreed.
“Don’t remind me.” Jax cut meat from the carcass roasting on a spit and handed it to Elwin.
“Is it wise to have a fire?”
“No.” Jax shrugged. “But I had to cauterize your wounds, and we can’t eat this raw.”
“What is it?”
“Fox. Best I could do.”
“It’s good,” Elwin said.
“Nearly dying has altered your tastes,” Jax said, eating a mouthful. “Fox is tough meat, but it’ll give you some strength back.”
By the time they finished the meal, Elwin did feel better. Though, every time he shifted the pain lanced up his arm and back. Through the torn tunic, the flesh had been seared.
“With any luck,” Jax said. “We can find Daki before it scars. How’s your head feel?”
“Like I was punched by a giant.”
“Not surprised. There’s quite a bruise where that cudgel glanced off your skull. Lucky you turned when you did, or they’d be cleaning your brains from the bar right about now. But
you held your own well enough. Why didn’t you pull your blade? Our exit would have gone smoother if you had.”
“My first instincts are to tame. I can make a sword with Fire. I’m not used to pulling a sword. It’s awkward having to run with it.”
“You’ll get used to it. So, you’re a Fire tamer?”
Elwin saw no reason to lie at this point. “I can tame all four Elements.”
Jax stared at him. He nodded slowly. “You aren’t lying.”
Elwin shook his head. “The prophecies are obviously bullocks. But I’m a true elementalist.”
“Is that why you think you can stop the dragons?”
“Yes.”
“But you can’t tame or the dragons will eat your soul.”
“My essence,” Elwin corrected, “not my soul, but that is a fair point. That is why I need the magi.”
“Right, but what does your being a true elementalist have to do with the magi or the dragons? Why you?”
Elwin hadn’t considered the question until this moment, but he knew the answer immediately. “Because I can. I might be the only one who can. I am a direct descendent of Abaddon. I don’t know why, but that is important.”
Jax frowned. “You expect me to believe you are related to the thumping Seeker of thumping Souls?”
“I am. He told me himself.”
Jax’s skepticism faltered. “You’ve spoken to the Seeker?”
“A few times. The first time, he tried to convince me to give him my essence. I refused, of course. A black savant poisoned me with the Death Element and forced me to face the Seeker in his realm. Had I lost, he would have bound me to him.”
“Dragons take me, you’re serious.”
“I am. I’ve seen him a few times since. At our last meeting, he acted as though I did not matter at all. That was after the dragons had returned.”
“Madness.” Jax stared at the fire for a few seconds, then shivered. He met Elwin’s gaze and said, “How do you hope to defeat the dragons?”
“Not sure. If I can learn to counter their incantations, I can fight back. I will find a way.”
“I wish you the best of luck, kid.” He rose, stamping out the fire with his boot.