by James Dale
"So, this is where Theros got the idea for his lift," Jack smiled. Reaching out to touch the wall of their enclosure, his fingers came away with a sticky film. "Sap?"
"As blood flows through our bodies," the princess nodded, "so does life giving sap flow through the veins of a tree. It also has others uses as you can see. We call this Nael’ro’Kael."
"Travel Veins? Are you a Woodwright Ailicia?" Jack asked. "To command the Nael’ro’Kael?"
"Me?" the maiden laughed. "I do not have the patients’ required to work with living wood. Yet anyone, given proper instruction, can learn to make use of the Travel Veins. If you remain here long enough, perhaps I can teach you. But no, I am no Woodwright. My...gift lies elsewhere. I am a Dreamwalker. An apprentice Dreamwalker actually. Lord Sheva, my teacher, says I have the potential to be the greatest in living memory. Perhaps tonight thou will consent to a viewing of your dreams?"
"I rarely dream," Jack replied quickly. And the ones I have are too dark to share.
"All dream," Ailicia replied. "Whether the memory remains or not.”
"Where are we going?" Jack asked, changing the subject.
"To a favored place of mine," Ailicia replied. "You may find it...interesting."
More she would not say and he didn't press. A short time later the Nael’ro’Kael, much swifter and infinitely smoother than Theros' mechanical lift, glided to a stop. At her command the wood parted again, revealing a narrow passageway of ascending stairs. Jack raised a questioning eyebrow, but the maiden only smiled and motioned him forward.
"After you."
"Nothing ventured...." Jack shrugged and began to climb.
At the end of the stairs was an opening showing clear blue sky. Stepping through, Jack was greeted by a panoramic view which took his breath away. They were on a limb of the Ahvendalia, its surface smooth and level, no doubt having been coaxed into this shape by Woodwrights. Though it was over five feet wide, more than enough room for them to negotiate without danger of falling over the edge, it appeared to be much smaller. Not surprising considering it was at least six or seven hundred feet to the ground below!
To the west, as far as the eye could see, there was nothing but golden leafed forest. Looking north Jack saw a distant mountain range, its white capped peaks shining bright on the horizon. To be visible from so far away the tallest must have soared over thirty thousand feet into the sky! To the south, a front of dark thunder clouds inched their way slowly across the vast expanse of the Midland Plains.
"It's...beautiful," Jack whispered.
"I am pleased you like it," Ailicia smiled. "I come here often when I wish to be alone. It is peaceful, and humbling, to have so much of the world spread out before you. Sometimes, early in the morning when the sun has just risen, there is a sparkle in the east. I say it is Illroc Adar. Though Arrinor claims it but my imagination."
"I'll take your word for it," Jack said with a tight smile. This high up the wind whipped through the branches with a gusto, and though this limb was doubtless a perfectly stable platform, he was nevertheless a bit uneasy as it swayed gently with breeze.
"Forgive me Jack," Ailicia apologized. "I have lived most of my life in the upper branches of Woodhaven. Sometimes I forget others may find their heights...uncomfortable."
"It's not the height that makes me uncomfortable," Jack replied. "It's the falling without a parachute strapped on my back."
"Parachute?"
"Never mind. Do you think maybe...we could...ummm..."
"Of course," the maiden nodded, taking his arm and leading him back to the safety of the stairway. "We can always return after you have grown more accustomed."
"I would like that."
"Where shall we go then?" Ailicia asked. "There is much we can still see before Arrinor is finished with his report."
"Wherever you like. You're the..."
Jack was interrupted by the quiet chiming of bells.
"That's odd," the maiden mused.
"What?"
"T'was a signal for the royal family to assemble in the council hall," Ailicia informed him. "Since I am the only one not present, I suppose they are ready for you."
"What's odd about that?"
"It comes...too quickly. Arrinor is quite the orator when he has an audience. To finish so soon...there must be something amiss."
"I guess we'd better go find out what's what then," Jack suggested.
Ailicia led him back to the Travel Vein and the living door closed silently behind them. It was only a few seconds before it opened again, depositing them on a large wooden platform, clearly fashioned by ordinary means and not the work of Ailfar Woodwrights. Above their heads was a ceiling also carved of beams, with a large round opening through which a spiral staircase of silver ascended.
The Nael’ro’Kael will take us no farther," Ailicia informed him. "From here we must climb."
Jack followed after the princess, emerging through the ceiling to find himself on a wide veranda. Built upon this platform in the sky was a great palace, not so large as earth bound castles, but regal with its natural beauty. It had walls of a soft creamy white like the color of freshly exposed bark, and a roof of burnished gold. Not a roof, but a canopy fashioned from the golden leaves of the Ahvendalia.
"There you are my princess!" a voice cried, and an elven warrior came running towards them.
"Aerhil? Is something wrong?" Ailicia asked anxiously.
"Wrong my princess?"
"The summons? It comes sooner than expected. Arrinor must be spinning quite a tale for father to cut him off so? He usually takes great delight in hearing his son’s reports on their exploits, and with Arrinor being war-leader for the first time...
"Your brother has yet to speak highness," the elf informed her. "The Dragonslayer spoke briefly with the king and your father immediately sent me to fetch you and the Duke of Thonbor. He was unusually...excited, but I do not think anything is amiss."
"Excited? Father?"
"Very," Aerhil nodded.
"This I must see," Ailicia replied. "Come Jack," she said, taking his arm once more.
The pair followed Aerhil into Woodhaven, and Jack found himself in a large hall, in the center of which stood the trunk of the Ahvendalia, smaller here at the pinnacle of the towering tree yet still a mighty column. The hall was filled with a soft light, some no doubt filtering down through the golden leafed roof, but the rest came from polished silver lamps glowing not by fire, but some other source. There were many elves in the room, all standing save for two seated in chairs set upon a dais set back against the bole of the tree. Male and female, they were obviously Cilidon and Aydera, king and queen of Ail'itharain.
All eyes turned toward Ailicia and Jack as they entered. Theros was standing at Cilidon's side. He leaned over and whispered to the elf, then smiled. Jack could not be sure, but it looked as if he said, "Now do you believe me?"
"Bring him forward Ally," the elf king nodded.
Ailicia glanced curiously at Jack, then did as she was bid. Both Cilidon and Aydera stood as they stopped before the dais. The Ailfar king studied Jack with bright green eyes, a hard, searching gaze which seemed to look completely through him, beyond his physical appearance into the depths of his soul. Jack felt as if he were being weighed in a balance, and he soon found himself standing straighter, head held high, shoulders squared defiantly. Ailicia curtsied deeply to her father, giving him a questioning look. He acknowledged her genuflection with a nod while continuing to study the man on her arm with keen interest. Jack finally remembered himself and offered the Ailfar king a deep bow.
"Aydayon Elo'hoyas Cilidon An'Mera," he said in perfect High Ailfara. "En'gailen ay'day Aydera du An'Mera."
"The eyes are certainly hers," Cilidon said slowly, the words directed at Theros. "And the fierce jaw-line is unmistakable. Look at the way he holds himself. A lion preparing to spring would be less threatening."
“It is like looking into the past,” Aydera smiled.
"Is he
not all I said?" the Dragonslayer grinned.
"He is indeed my friend," the Ailfar king replied, then turned to his chief councilor. "Celliwic, I would speak with this man privately."
"Sire?" Celliwic queried, surprise evident on his face.
"Out," Cilidon commanded when the elves showed no signs of moving. "Everyone save the queen and my children."
"My lord," the Ailfar quickly bowed. The others followed him from the hall, confused by their abrupt dismissal. Theros however, remained behind, apparently knowing he had not been included in the command.
"When my emissary returned with the Dragonslayer's message a remarkable guest would be accompanying him," Cilidon continued when the room was emptied of all but Theros and the Ailfar royal family, "I could not imagine the significance contained in such a simple statement. How would you prefer I address you Jack Braedan?"
"My lord?" Jack asked uncertainly. In truth however, he knew exactly what Cilidon was implying. Obviously Theros had wasted no time in sharing the secret of his identity.
"Shall I call you by your father's title? Or would...nephew be too presumptuous?" the Ailfar king inquired with a hesitant smile.
"What means this?" A'randraial and Cilandrion asked together, both wearing puzzled looks. Only Queen Aydera seemed to know what was transpiring.
"My father's title is Congressman," answered Jack, returning the Ailfar's smile. "It is earned with votes not by blood in my homeland. To call me anything other than the Duke of Thonbor would still be somewhat premature. It would please me greatly to answer to nephew... Uncle?"
"Uncle?" Ailicia whispered, her sparkling eyes shifting quickly back and forth between the two. "Nephew?"
"Children," Cilidon said, stepping from the dais to place his hands on Jack's shoulders. "Greet thy kinsman. Nay, more than kinsman. My honored nephew and your cousin! One was lost is returned! A Bra'Adan has come again to Woodhaven."
Chapter Twenty-two
Shadow Dance
"I think now is the time to tell your story again Jack," Theros said, moving to take a seat unceremoniously on the edge of the dais. "In its entirety. Hold nothing back. Cilidon has waited longest of all among the people of Aralon to hear it."
"Very well sir," Jack nodded, and taking a deep breath he launched straightway into his tale. "My name is John Michael Braedan," he began, "son of James, son of Patrick, descendant ...descendant of Ljmarn Bra' Adan and Ailanna An'Mera." It took nearly two hours to tell it all. Cilidon interrupted frequently, asking Jack to describe in detail the Temple of the Door, for he had been present at its building. He asked several questions about the Elohara as well, and of his encounter with the shade of Ljmarn. The part involving Cil’lena also brought several questions from the Ailfar king, for she was his sister and it had been eight centuries since they had parted. The other portions of his story, Tanaevar, the Bergaweld and Maelcain and the Kadinar, he allowed without interruption.
When Jack had finished his tale, Cilidon turned to Theros. "Does the Dragonslayer testify this man has fulfilled the prophecies? Bin'et ardendel has been returned to Brydium as foretold?"
"I do," Theros nodded. "It has. He who stands before you is the same man who returned the Talon of the Hawk. He has driven serpents from the lair of the Dragon. He has walked among the dead. He..."
"It is not necessary to recount each one," Cilidon smiled. "I am satisfied."
"That's it?" Jack asked. "No...test?"
"I have the sworn word of a Bearer of a Highsword," Cilidon replied, "and the testimony of my own eyes. You are of Ljmarn's blood. There is no doubt. And also," he smiled slyly, "you have spoken your claim while under the leaves of Ahvendalia. No Ailfar or human or wizard foul may utter false-hood in the shade of the Sacred Wood. There is no need of further tests. Save only one. And I have little doubt you shall pass it when the time comes. You are a Bra'Adan."
Arrinor was the first to embrace him. "I said there was strong blood in your line Jack," he laughed, "but I had no idea how strong."
"Welcome cousin," Ailicia smiled, embracing him after Arrinor stepped aside.
"Welcome indeed, John Michael Bra’Adan." Queen Aydera smiled, stepping down to join him. She placed her hands on his shoulders and kissed each cheek. "You are the image of Ljmarn and the spirit of my sister-in-law Ailanna sings in your blood. I can feel it. For as long as you wish, you may consider Woodhaven your home."
"Thank you, lady," Jack smiled. "It has been a long time since I've had a family and a home."
"Welcome cousin," A'randraial and Cilandrion smiled warmly, each embracing him in turn, their cool, formality gone now that he had been accepted as kin.
"Well...isn't this a nice little reunion," Theros laughed. "One long years in coming, I might add. Though I think it would be best if we didn't announce it for the time being. There have already been attempts on Jack's life."
"Kiathan?" Cilidon asked gravely.
"You knew about him?" Jack asked. "Before today?"
"I have harbored...suspicious about the Duke of Raashan for some time," the Ailfar king sighed. "My Rangers spotted him on the border of the Bergaweld last winter. Had I suspected the full extent of his treachery he would never have been permitted back across the River Whesguard."
"Kiathan we can discuss tomorrow," Theros announced, standing to take his place by Braedan's side. "After we have all had a good night's rest. Eh?" he asked, slapping Jack on the shoulder.
"Very well," Cilidon agreed. "But tomorrow I mean to hear more of my sister if you can recall things you neglected today. And of the Tears. And Galen Severa. And Agash Thugar."
"Of course," Jack nodded.
"A'randraial. Cilandrion."
"Father?" both replied.
"Find Celliwic. I'm sure he hasn't gone far. Have him gather the other councilors. I will hear the reports now."
"Ailicia, would find Jack some quarters? Something befitting family?"
"Of course, father," the maiden bowed. "Come cousin."
"Stay Arri," Cilidon said, halting the young prince when he made to follow.
"But father!"
"You have a report to make war-leader."
"Yes father," Arrinor sighed.
"Queen...Aunt Aydera," Jack bowed. "Words cannot express the joy your welcome has given me."
"I will have food sent to you tonight, nephew." the Ailfar queen smiled. "But tomorrow you will take your proper place at the king's table.
"Yes ma'am," Jack grinned.
"Come cousin," Ailicia laughed, taking him by the arm. "I know of a place that may suit your needs."
The Ailfar princess led to him quarters in Woodhaven that provided a striking view of the River Valaion. From this vantage point high above the forest floor, the river looked like a sparkling blue ribbon as it wound its way westward toward the sea. The room itself was a grand chamber, obviously a work of Woodwright ingenuity, twenty yards across and half again as high, with a vaulted ceiling formed of intricately shaped arches flowing down into smooth columns of living wood. There was an alcove hollowed into one wall where a soft bed lay and nearby, behind a thin screen of mist green moss, a lavatory with a bubbling spring of crystal water pooled into a shallow bowl, then disappeared down a channel in the floor.
"Do you approve?" Ailicia asked hopefully. "Prince Ljmarn stayed here when he came to court the Princess Ailanna. And afterwards on other visits to Elvendale."
"It will do fine," Jack nodded.
"It is fitting a Bra’Adan will occupy it once more," the princess smiled. "One might even say it is...destiny."
"One might," he replied. "If one were inclined to believe in such things."
"After today, I think it safe to say I am one so inclined," Ailicia nodded heartily. "Well cousin, since you have pronounced your accommodations suitable, I shall return to the council to hear Arrinor's report. It will no doubt be...interesting, now that he knows he saved the life of the Heir of Ljmarn."
"I think you may be right," Jack laughed. "I am going
to make use of the bed before my supper arrives if it's okay? I could use a good nap." In truth, it was all he could do to keep his eyes open. He had had only a few hours’ sleep in the last two days and it was now finally beginning to catch up with him.
"Of course," the princess nodded. "I shall inform the kitchen not to disturb you should they find you sleeping when they bring your supper."
"Thanks, Ailicia," Jack smiled gratefully.
"You definitely must call me Ally now." the Ailfar maiden said. She hesitated for an instant, then kissed him quickly on the cheek. "Sleep well cousin. Pleasant dreams."
After Ailicia left him Jack went to the lavatory, testing the pooled water by splashing it on his face. It was cool and refreshing, with a faint, earthy smell. Removing his sword belt, scale-mail, and his silk shirt, he scooped handfuls of the water and washed away the sweat and grime of travel, then patted himself dry with the thin curtain of soft moss. After carefully folding his shirt and leaning his sword against the wall, he sat down on the bed and slipped off his boots, then laid down with his hands behind his head.
He was just about to drift off to sleep when his supper arrived, carried by a laughing Ailfar youth of indeterminate age. They young elf boy whistled a happy tune, as talented as the most spirited song bird, as he arranged a table. The young man said not a word to Braedan as he went about his business, producing eating utensils as if from thin air, then placing a tray overflowing with various fruits, nuts and soft, brown bread on the table. Jack thanked the boy, who was in all likelihood older than he, smiling broadly at his infectious cheerfulness.
“Lord Hawkfinder,” the lad bowed deeply, then departed, still whistling happily.
Jack feasted on the dinner provided him, relishing in each savory bite. The fruits were a mixture of tart and sweet and the nuts all filled him with visions of trees and rich earth and fragrant soil. The bread, he had never tasted its like. It was warm still, as if it had just been taken from the oven, and as light as air. When he looked down half an hour later, he was shocked to discover he’d eaten the entire tray. He found a cup on one of the shelves in the room and went to fill it in the bubbling pool in the lavatory. The water was crisp and cool as a mountain stream.