After the Burning: Princess

By C.J. Peter

“In the Two Thousand Three Hundred Forty Forth Year After the Great Burning and the accompanying Ruin of the World...”

...so begins the tale of Julian Deltolle, a merchant princess living in a world recovered from a great catastrophe in its past.

She harbors a dark secret. Julian can do CAST magic, an ability forbidden to any woman of her time by those in authority upon pain of death...or worse.

For Julian it may be worse.

Once it's discovered, Julian’s talents mark her as a target for control by the world's governments and the church, and an epic tale of survival and mystery unfolds. Determining who is an enemy and who is an ally in a world controlled by magic is not a simple task, especially for a young woman still struggling to understand and control her magical gifts.

Julian’s journey to discover the true purpose of her life, the depth of her abilities, and why she is being hunted by those in power is set against a ruined world where just stepping outside the protection of city walls can result in instant death.

• Language: English
• Publisher: C.J. Peter
• Release date: Feb 10, 2013
• ISBN: 9781301276066

C.J. Peter

Having discovered the joys/pain/insanity of writing fiction in early elementary school, the author proceeded to move on to a technical career following military service, all the while dabbling in his limited free time with the itch that could never be completely scratched. Twenty years later, it was do it or don't... ...so in a 'throw the hat over the fence' move, he left the IT field, grabbed the wheel of a taxi to take care of the necessities and started pounding the keyboard.

Book preview

Chapter 1

In the Two Thousand Three Hundred Forty Forth Year After the Great Burning and the accompanying Ruin of the World, Julian Deltolle sat in the classroom in her favorite spot nearest the window overlooking the city. The teacher had been droning on for a while, something or other to do with the history of the traders between the kingdoms, but she couldn't bring herself to care, much less pay strict attention. With light brown hair just past the shoulders in length, fair skinned, high cheekbones and almond shaped eyes of emerald color, Julian was considered a catch. Of that, she cared even less, to the consternation of her fellow students who concerned themselves with such things. Julian preferred her books, her daydreams and her secret. Julian could do what only men were supposedly able to do, and that was the cast. She had known for some time she had the Abilities, but kept them to herself. Her Father had caught her once, and after getting over his shock and disbelief, had warned her sternly to not let anyone know. It would be considered a heresy to the Church which could threaten her family's place in the world.

Her Father loved her as only a man can with a single daughter, two sons grown and a wife long buried. He didn't refuse to let her continue her practices with the cast, but he made her take care to just work the magics when alone in a room well sealed within the lower levels of the house but only for short periods of time. It was well-known to all the Shamans of the Church had the ability to detect unauthorized uses of the cast. So most of the time she contented herself with her daydreams, her books and when she reached her sixteenth year, she took up the art of the sword as well...yet another consternation to her fellow students who mightily resisted the idea a mere girl could best them in another art usually restricted to men.

Out the window, the dreary dark gray skies swirled and moved about, but the city's dome protected all beneath its arc from the storms which continually pounded the world. It occasionally shimmered as low moving clouds rammed against it. The city below the dome was well-lit as it always was, stretching into the distance farther than the eye could easily see. Its minarets, towers and taller buildings formed the heart of the coastal metropolis. The city lowered itself closer to the ground as it spread, growing weary of reaching for the heavens. The sub-cities, towns, and villages sprawled north and south around this central conglomeration which formed the trading center. To the east, nearly to the mountain range cradling the edge of the Shield were ranches of animal stock. Beyond this, at the outermost edges, within the perimeter of high walls of metal, were the farms of wheat and other edible plants, vegetables, and fruits. To the west, the massive port filled with the sailing ships and traders who dared to ply the ocean in search of goods, luxuries or in some cases, adventure.

Her school was but one part of a larger university campus situated near to the center of the city proper, and this window she looked out of had a grand view which on exceedingly rare haze-free days she could even glimpse the ocean and the matchstick spars of the ships nestled against it.

...care to join us in the ever interesting subject matter today Miss Deltolle?

Julian started, hearing her formal name called by a somewhat less than amused professor. She slowly turned her head to face the teacher, while picturing a lined diagram in her mind to invoke a small cast which saved her continual embarrassment from the hazards of daydreaming in class. The spell replayed his lecture for a short period in her mind catching up on the current discussion. It was an inconsequential risk to perform such a tiny cast as this in school. Detecting something so small in the campus would normally be a futile endeavor as casts were being performed in various classes throughout the facilities. Her own studies had shown detection was a tricky business to accomplish in the first place without years of specific training, contrary to the accepted facts.

I'm curious as to why the traders of Devar ever bothered going so far in the first place. I mean they had no idea that there were any people that far to the north of them, so why the risk? She responded with the question as smoothly as if she were paying complete attention.

Professor Tenda, this year's history teacher, widened his eyes, surprised. Julian could tell he thought he'd caught her out, and her question had gotten the better of him for a moment.

A good question, he said after a pause, narrowing his eyes.

"The traders of Devar did not know there were villages north of the wastes, but the Oracle of York had made several allusions to it, which they interpreted correctly and thus discovered the mining communities. Their risk elevated Devar from a mere way stop between Cantille and Josten into a mineral trading center of prestige and wealth that is even greater today than it has ever been."

Yes, but the Oracle of York's allusions were as vague as the wind, Julian countered, lazily waving a hand. Why risk death and destruction on such a faint and, I would say, irresponsible interpretation of the prophecy?

Professor Tenda added a frown to his still narrowed eyes. Julian knew he should be used to her questions and refutations by now, but apparently he was not in the mood today.

We do not know the exact reasons why they did what they did, only that they set out and found the mines based on the predictions. A thousand years of time leaves much to be desired in the records, and almost nothing when it comes to motive and thought processes of individuals. He said this with a tone indicating there wouldn't be any further discussion as to the whys and wherefores on this particular subject.

Julian tilted her head while smiling at him in her best 'thank-you' fashion, and he turned his attention back to the blackboard, writing the reading and research assignments for the next session furiously.

After class, while sitting in the locker area tying the laces on her skin boots for the upcoming sword session, Danton stopped by, looking down at her.

Yes Danton? She asked him without looking up.

Why do you do that? he asked.

Do what? she responded with an exaggerated innocence.

Irritate the professors so much. They all know by now that you probably know more than them. Why rub their noses in it? Danton was her friend since second-year, and one of the few boys she could tolerate for more than a few minutes at a time. It was probably due to the fact he'd never treated her any differently, but she had never been completely sure why Danton liked her that way still. He was of age with her after all, and she knew he had an eye for girls, same as most of the other boys. Occasionally when she let her thoughts wander in a direction which included the romantic toward Danton, she had always stopped, worried their friendship would be ruined if things went badly. Still, he was a handsome young man, tall and strong, with a decent intelligence peaking out from startling blue eyes under an unruly shock of jet black hair.

"Because I do know more than most of them. If they would study their own books and writings, they would be the better for it. They always think that the girl in the class is unable to understand the world. I hate them for that."

One more year of this and then you won't have to deal with them, so why make your life miserable in 'tween? He asked.

It's not miserable, she responded giving him a mischievous smile. I rather enjoy their discomfort...and why do you say only one more year. University and the next steps follow that. Do you think I won't attend?

You are not unattractive my dearest Julian. You of all people know the ways of the merchant princes. You will be married off before that. Your Father is no exception or above the guild in that regard, or had you forgotten? His voice betrayed some sadness, but his point was correct.

I'll not, she replied, her smile vanishing, a look of anger replacing it, betraying her helplessness against a future mapped out by others.

We shall see Jules, we shall see, he patted her shoulder. Are you going to embarrass Brillian in class again?

I should hope so. We have a new teacher today though, so he will probably make us sit and be bored.

You daydream too much to be bored.

You know me well, she said, standing at last, reaching her waist to tie off the padded armor doublet worn for the class. See you after the day?

At the cafe Besmont? he asked.

There is as good as any, she said, turning to go to the classroom.

The 'classroom' was actually a large gymnasium, laid out with various obstacles, practice dummies and sword quintains which awaited their daily bashing. The class also held at one end an array of archery targets in various heights and angles along and up one wall. The ceiling of the room was high and dome-shaped, ringed with cast lit lanterns.

Julian entered via the main arch entrance having already heard an excited buzz of conversation from her fellow students in the room. She walked to the side of the open doorway, looking down the table at the practice weapons laid out there. After a moment, she spied her favorite blade, scooping it and the scabbard up.

Ahh. The girl who would be Queen, brandishing her tiny stick. Here to give us more of your lessons? said a voice behind her as she fixed the scabbard at her waist.

Why Brillian, you should know me better than that by now. I have no desire to be a queen, and I'm afraid I've already given you more lessons than you could handle. Julian turned slowly, keeping her face in as neutral an expression as possible. The young man before her, sandy blond hair, dark eyes, with a sharp peaked nose, gave a look of pure disdain at her sarcasm. He was tall, broad in the shoulders, and as a son of one of the Lords of the city, his future assured. Brillian's demeanor indicated he more than well knew it.

Behind him stood his entourage, the usual group of hangars on to power. Even now they were well on their way to the traditions and trappings of the court.

What do you want, Brillian? Julian asked with quiet confidence in her voice. She had never given in to their gibes or incessant teasing over the years. This was merely a continuation of a pattern, a long since tiresome game between them.

What do I want. Hmm, I shall have to think upon that, he said, tapping his cheek with a finger, giving her a lecherous grin and a slow wink.

While you think on it, we have a class to attend, and she swept by him, walking quickly to the central floor where most of the students were arranging themselves upon pillowed seats.

After several minutes, the class of thirty had assembled. From a side door which led to the professor's quarters their Sword Master, Alexan Bris' stepped toward them. He was of large frame, with oily black hair and a pencil-thin mustache that rounded his lips to point toward the ground. He walked with the grace of a cat, his arms and chest flexing with muscles well trained, and wore a light leather jerkin with a jewel hilted long sword at his side. Julian had never seen the man smile, so at first she thought the look on the Master's face was due to some ailment, and with a start she realized he was grinning.

He looked over them a moment, counting, stopping at his accustomed place central to their seating arrangement. He hesitated to adjust his jerkin before speaking.

Today we are privileged to have a guest speaker and teacher join us. He is from the Bronze Isles in the east, currently serving at the court of Canton as a Sword Master and defender of the throne, as well as a liege defender of the high Oracle. I present to you, you undeserving rats, Sword Master Mitsuo Tan T'so.

Julian looked to the door as the foreigner made his entrance. At first she thought there had been a mistake. The man approaching them was tiny. 'This must surely be a servant,' she thought, but as he walked toward them, no other appeared through the door after him.

This man stopped beside Master Bris and made a short bow to the class. He was bald, his pale skin was somewhat yellow. His eyes were beyond almond in shape; they were nearly slits through which black orbs gleamed. He had a small trimmed beard streaked with gray, and his form was slender throughout. He wore a jerkin of similar style to Alexan's, but he wore no proper sword, rather a slim rapier, similar to the one Julian was so fond of. She noticed he wore skin boots as well. Of her class, she was the only one who favored the supple footwear to the heavier more armored boots that most swordsmen typically wore.

I thank you for that gentle introduction Master Bris, Mitsuo said. His voice was soft and his delivery stilted, but even with the common tongue obviously not his first language, he was quite intelligible.

I have journeyed to your country for many reasons, and it honors me to be able to impart any small knowledge I may possess, to you, the students of this renowned and hallowed institution.He paused, looking about, his gaze momentarily stopping when he reached Julian, then moved on. It was barely perceptible, but Julian had trained herself in the art of observation since she was young as a part of the overall requirements of the cast, and noticed his pause was more than mere surprise that a girl would be in such a class. She sensed he knew her somehow.

You are probably looking at your new guest teacher and wondering what such a man of small stature can possibly teach you, but over the next few weeks, I assure you that you will be better dancers than you are now.

There followed a quick burst of laughter from several students, most audibly from where Brillian sat.

Mitsuo smiled, showing strikingly white teeth, but the smile was a dangerous one, Julian saw.

Yes. You did not hear me improperly. Dance. The art of the sword is not just in the ability to end your opponent's life, but properly focused, it can lead you to better ability in other endeavors, such as dance, and walking, and breathing, and focusing your attention to solving problems far removed from the skills of the weapon. You have been taught, as Master Bris has briefed me, on the major efforts in defense and attack, the use of weight to counterbalance and unhand the opponent. You have also been taught how to coordinate your combat with members of a team to best deliver potent strikes to a similar group of enemies. However, I bring a different learning. It is a philosophy as well as a skill, and takes many years to master. I am but a humble student beside all of you, offering my small abilities and skills to enrich you.

He turned and again gave a slight bow, this time to Master Bris. You may take your leave now sir, I shall be happy to continue the lessons for now.

Very well Master T'so, Alexan replied, and again did something that Julian would not have thought possible. He bowed in return to the smaller man, abruptly turned and walked through the door, closing it behind him.

While the class remained slack-jawed at this completely uncharacteristic response from their normally gruff, abrasive and at times abusive teacher, Master T'so moved back a few steps, pointing to Brillian and two others seemingly at random.

Step up, unsheathe your steel, and attack me.The smile was gone, the tone of his voice suddenly lethal in its intent.

Brillian stood slowly, a smile on his lips. He unsheathed the long sword at his side, and taking charge of the other two, motioned them into position around him. They stepped away from the seating area a short distance from the teacher.

Well? T'so's tone was derisive. That is how you attack?

Brillian looked confused but offered, Master, you haven't shown us your steel.

In time. Now do as your teacher has instructed you.

The fight was over in a moment. The three boys slid forward, adopting a standard high guard, when T'so was suddenly in between the triad. He hadn't so much as touched his weapon, but three short moves between the students and their swords were on the ground, along with their persons as well.

Julian instantly recognized the Dance. She also realized Master T'so had been watching her the entire time. She tilted her head, looking directly at him, wondering what this man wanted of her.

Help them, T'so pointed to two other students. They quickly pulled Brillian and the other two up. Brillian was still trying to uncross his eyes, the blow to his temple swift and painful.

So. Do you see the meaning of dance? T'so asked the class, still looking directly at Julian.

She stood slowly, her heart pounding with excitement as she approached this strange new teacher.

Yes, I see the dance. I would very much like to dance with you.

I see that you do. So. Dance, he slid sideways immediately readying another blow which so quickly overwhelmed the other three. Julian countered by moving the other way, keeping him at distance, her focus never leaving his eyes.

You have done this before? he asked.

I have always wanted to do this before, she said barely above a whisper as she unsheathed her rapier.

He moved forward...no she thought as she made her counter, he glided forward, feet barely touching the floor. His sword was suddenly out of its scabbard and there was no more time for thought. One of the masteries of the cast was the ability to lose one's self to the overall. The ability to lose time and just be in the moment. It was necessary when working spells that required more than three things to happen at a time. Concentration of this nature was historically something only men were able to accomplish with the cast. No one had understood why or how, just that females for whatever physiological reason couldn't accomplish it. It wasn't impossible though, as history had spoken of several enchantresses who had mastered the cast, but, generally speaking, most women who were sensitive to the Abilities tended to be priestesses and seers rather than manipulators.

Julian had discovered she possessed the Abilities when she was eight years old, and had practiced them daily in her training room ever since. The Ability itself wasn't the cast but was part and parcel an integral ingredient of being able to manipulate the energies. She brought it to bear now as they slithered back and forth across the training floor. She felt the presence of the other students standing, watching, the excited babble as they tried to determine just how this girl, this fellow student they had known for years could stand against such an onslaught, and even return the ferocity with a skill they hadn't known she had possessed. This was peripheral to her though. She knew it. Felt it. Ignored it. Her world consisted of placement, movement, counterbalance, thrust, counter thrust, parry and attack. Her feet moved as she directed them in the dance, but her primary task was to maintain her focus on the Master's eyes. She intuited there was entirely more to this man than just a teacher from the east.

They engaged in several minutes of the clash before Julian raised her left hand out and away, even as their swords still blurred, snapping and clanging against one another. The signal for surrender. Immediately Master T'so slid back, his rapier directly in front of him, pointed toward the dome. Julian duplicated the maneuver, or rather its opposite, her sword pointed down and to the right, leaving her vulnerable.

You yield? He asked.

I yield to your superior skills and abilities Master T'so. I thank you for this...dance, Julian returned.

You are more than welcome. He saluted her with the sword, motioning her to return to her seat.

The students, Brillian in particular, stared at her as if seeing an apparition.

So. This one knows the dance. Why, do you think, she yielded when she did? Master T'so asked as Julian sat on her pillow.

Anyone? he asked after a moment of silence. He looked again at Julian, tell us, why did you yield?

When dealing in a non-lethal duel, it is proper and courteous to realize one's limitations in the face of a superior skill and acknowledge it, she answered.

This is true, but how did you know that it wasn't lethal?

Your eyes told me that you were holding back, Master, she said.

Very good. Discerning intent. Another facet of our training that applies to much more than mere swordplay. It allows us to make decisions based upon observation that aren't mere guesses, but rather the educated determination of another's actual intentions.

Master T'so turned to one of the few students still sitting, pointing at him to stand.

Your name? he asked when the boy had complied.

Uhm, I'm Bendric, the boy replied with nervous fear.

Uhmbendric. What kind of name is that? Are you from a foreign land? T'so asked, his face betraying none of the humor his tone suggested.

I'm sorry sir. M...My name is Bendric Talathian of the House Talathian.

Better. A lesson here is to never show your fear to one who may turn into an adversary. Now Bendric, you stand at ease. I will not harm you for this demonstration.

Yes Master, Bendric said, his voice quivering with concern over the Master's order.

Now, we will use elements of dance to show you all how to avoid the catastrophe that befell our first opponents.

**

The class ended when Master T'so bowed to them, abruptly turned, leaving through the teacher's door. For once Brillian had nothing to say to Julian, not even a glance in her direction as the students moved to the table to deposit their training weapons.

Several others did have questions though, cornering her near the archway.

How did you do that? Ellan, the oldest student, asked, taking the spokesman position for the group.

Do? she asked, trying to sound innocent.

Don't be coy. You crossed swords with him as if you were trained for high combat in York. We've never seen that...er, you, do anything remotely like that before.

Julian nodded, thinking fast. What he did wasn't traditional swordplay. He is a master of the eastern arts and most of those skills involve things other than standard slash and parry. As it happens, I have learned many of those things from my own studies here and at home. He was being gentle, I assure you. The speed of the display is deceptive. A heavy broadsword by an opponent with similar skills would have ended the fight very quickly.

But you fought with his skill, Ellan said, his face betraying his disbelief at her explanation.

Believe what you will but I could not best him even if he were asleep. We merely danced, using the swords as expression. If any of you had been watching more than just the weapons, you would have seen that. She turned from them and left the class.

Julian was breathing hard by the time she reached the privy room, fear tying a heavy knot in her gut. She had responded to the Master's challenge without thinking about how it could betray her abilities, shame her House, or worse, get her killed.

There were several girls in the room before the sinks and mirrors readying themselves for classes, gossiping with one another over boys they were fond of. Julian moved to the farthest basin from them and bent to splash cool water over her face. She looked into the mirror, and for the first time she saw, in almost longer than she could remember, real fear in her eyes.

By late afternoon, the story had spread through the school and as she walked into the Philosophy of the cast classroom with her bag of notebooks, quills and study guides, there were many in the room who looked at her with more than idle curiosity. Seeing Danton across near the windows, she walked over to him.

Ahh Jules, the sorceress of the blade, his eyes twinkled with humor.

Oh stuff that, she responded crossly, sitting quickly and beginning to rummage her bag for quill and parchment.

He sat next to her, a devil may care grin on his face.

Some are saying that my dearest friend Julian is possessed by the evil spirits of the east, and that she betrayed herself today.

Some people see unctions and signs and portents in cups of swill too.

Some, yes. He looked toward the front of the room. The Professor hadn't entered yet.

Some would say that you've been holding back, and were showing off to gather favor though.

She frowned. Do you believe them?

Me? He laughed. I believe that my friend has always been holding back on what she can do. You were caught up in the moment and let people see more of you than you would have liked. You are human, after all. I know this, even if many would deny it.

He lowered his voice to a near whisper, "But you need to be very careful Jules. You know better than I the rules of the Church regarding women and the cast, and if you get caught, not even your Father can save you from their wrath. They are a bunch of tight arsed bigoted sots you know, and it's the letter of their law they hold to."

Julian started, turning to stare at Danton, her face paling with surprise.

Your secret has been safe with me for years my friend. But take care that it's just me, eh? He winked, turning his attention to the dais in the front of the room as one of the bigots as he liked to refer to the Philosophy teachers, entered the room.

Ahem, the professor coughed, getting the room's attention. Before we begin the lessons, I must ask Julian Deltolle if she would step outside the class for a moment. You have a visitor. He glared at her, but she could tell from his look he was merely angered at the disruption.

Of course Professor, she said. See you after, she whispered to Danton as she gathered her things, returning them to the bag.

Of course. I'm buying, he replied.

Outside the classroom, she looked up and down the hall but it was empty. The long corridor in both directions was lit by braziers of cast light, their cool golden glow flickering with the currents of air.

As she was about to return to the room, she saw a young acolyte hurriedly round the corner at the end of the hall coming purposefully toward her, his long brown robes swishing against his legs.

Julian Deltolle? he called.

Yes.

You are to accompany me, he paused to catch his breath as he reached her. You are to accompany me to the conference rooms. Your presence is required.

Very well, she said, trying not to think on how the knot in her stomach was growing again.

The conference rooms were two floors below the primary classes in this wing of the building, and being called to one as a student usually meant a dressing down for an infraction, or worse.

By the time they reached the doors to one of the rooms, the bellyache had turned into a roiling dragon. Once, in her middle school years, she had almost been caught creating cast light in one of the privy rooms. A Priest had detected something out of the ordinary while walking by the room, and she barely had time to dissolve the enchantment when two of the enforcers had entered the chamber. That was the first time she had been to such a conference room, and only the Shaman's ingrained disbelief a mere girl could be using the Abilities had saved her.

The acolyte knocked quickly, and there was a muffled response to enter from within. The boy opened the door for her, then stood away. She took a deep breath and entered.

The conference areas were simply that. Rooms with long metal tables at their center, surrounded by high-backed chairs, with a dais at one end for giving presentations. Here though, just one man sat at the table: Master T'so. The acolyte closed the door behind her, leaving them alone.

So. Have a seat with me, Mitsuo said, gesturing to the chair on the other side of the table.

Very well, Master, she replied, walking around the table to sit opposite him.

I have come a long way to see you, Miss Deltolle.

Julian took a deep breath, focusing and using her lessons to calm herself before answering.

If you come from the Bronze Isles to meet me, then, yes, you have.

Canton actually. So, he paused, his stare boring into hers., prying for unspoken information. Julian returned the look, saying nothing.

You nearly gave yourself away in the class. Spoken as an accusation.

Gave myself away? She maintained her mental focus, keeping her response as neutral as possible.

Mitsuo laughed. "You are very, very good child, but you don't have the years of practice to pull off complete innocence just yet. Only feudal lords and kings can accomplish that type of deception with any sort of conviction, and even then most of the time it is wasted on one who studies such things. I will not mince words. I know you have certain abilities."

Julian, with slow deliberation, looked around the room, her eyes seeking the places where the acolytes would have placed eavesdropping devices. Mitsuo followed her gaze, nodding with understanding.

Walk with me child. We must speak of things great and small pertaining to your assistance with my training of the students in the art of the dance. His voice betrayed nothing out of the ordinary, but Julian knew her message was received.

As you will Master.

They said nothing until well after leaving the room. As they walked the corridor to the doors leading to one of the courtyards, Mitsuo offered, The Port of LuSana is far grander in scope than I had been led to believe back home.

Yes, it is a monstrous large city, Master. It is said that more than four million live here now. The trade between the East and our continent has grown larger in recent years. The Shield Palantirs for the ships have been improved to a point where it has become an ease compared to older times for the journey between our lands.

So, he acknowledged her in his peculiar way. There are rumors of an overland caravan traveling to the east to York and other points.

"Not mere rumors, sir. The traders from York who arrived last year have completed their trades and purchases and are readying for the trip. My Father says it is a hard and dangerous undertaking through the wilds, and that the Shamen who travel to protect the caravans will be hard pressed even with the smaller Palantirs and the shield casting."

Why is that? he asked her, gesturing her through a door into the central courtyard.

The weather grows ever harsher and it is rumored that the Burned Ones have grown in numbers in the last several years. Travel across the land grows more difficult. It is also said that the government is debating on how to deal with the problems, but there is much doubt that it will be possible to really affect any large change.

Hmm. I have heard of such debating as well.

They walked to a fountain at the center of the large courtyard across a stone walkway bordered by green grasses and flowering plants. They were alone, as this time of day classes were in full cycle, the Church Priests and acolytes who maintained the grounds were all in sectional devotions for the day.

Are we clear? he murmured.

Julian looked about, reaching out with her Ability to listen with cast trained senses.

We are Master.

Good. You are very skilled for one not taught.

"I am taught Master. By me."

Ahh. There are times my command of the common tongue of this land is less than I would like it to be. I meant that you are skilled for one self taught.

Thank you Master. It has been most difficult. I did not ask for this.

Mitsuo nodded. No true gift given is ever really asked for. Yet you have braved foolish traditions and short-sighted and sometimes evil men whose agendas are most questionable at times to train yourself up to a level that has surprised me.

How did you... she began, but he interrupted her.

"In class you used several techniques in the dance that can only be mastered by one with the gift. There were three strokes I sent at you that cannot be defeated without at least some ability to focus in a way that is cast trained. You not only parried the three, you returned it with two variations combined with footwork that betrayed you. You have trained far beyond the levels of acolyte, yet you lack the finesse that a master of the Abilities would have. I have traveled far, knowing you were here, to offer you that chance to train. In the open. As an equal."

They were standing by the fountain, and with his words, Julian lost her concentration and sat abruptly on the edge of the stone ornament, her world spinning.

Mitsuo looked down at her with a small smile, his dark eyes shining.

You have trouble with this? he asked.

I do, she responded, still trying to get her thoughts to form something coherent.

I understand. He sat beside her, his gaze moving skyward to watch several balloon transports driving in formation toward the ports. He followed their travel until they were beyond the far courtyard wall.

Master, what you offer cannot be done. In the far past there were a few women who had the gifts, but it was rare even then, and after the fourth consolidation the Church declared that females using the, um... she looked around warily, still having problems with discussing any of this openly. She lowered her voice to a whisper, "Women caught using the cast were declared descendants of the Burned Ones and to be killed on sight."

So. But is it true for the whole of the world? There are many places where the Church has little authority.

Yes, she responded with care. It is true that your people worship in a different manner, and that the customs and traditions are far removed from those practiced here, but the Church has established itself firmly in most civilized places, and from my reading they have a large presence even in your Isles.

Just. They have insinuated themselves into many lands and places. The secrets of creating the Palantir crystals is their greatest hold on us all, but it is not as tight a grip as you might think, young Julian.

Are you asking me to journey to your home then? she asked, looking at him.

Not as yet. I only ask you to consider the possibility of receiving training to bring you to the fullest ability in a manner that is open and equal. You are bound by the rules of your House, and the question of travel can only be answered by your Father.

Then it is probably a fool's dream for me, she said, looking down at the grass beneath her feet.

There are no fool's dreams. Fools do not dream.

I am the daughter of a Merchant Prince of the House Deltolle. The responsibilities to my House are limited, but inevitable. Deep-seated resentment rose in her mind. 'I'll not,' she remembered telling Danton.

There are many things you do not know that are in the process of changing the world Julian. You may be surprised at how many choices in your life will come available, and sooner than you think. Mitsuo stood, adjusting his scabbard. He reached out a heavily callused hand to her.

Come, we must not let your teachers think me completely irresponsible to your educational needs.

She took his hand and stood, giving him a small smile.

***

Chapter 2

At the end of the school day Julian left the main campus building, alone, her attire as usual creating a titter among the girls exiting the campus portal arch. She dressed as a sword acolyte with a leather jerkin, form fitting pants, and skin boots. She tied her hair into a tight ponytail to keep her eyes clear. At her side was a lethally edged rapier with customized grip her Father had given her upon realizing his daughter wouldn't take no for an answer to her explorations. She did this, not out of some great desire to be different from the corseted and frilly dressed girls her age, but out of necessity. LuSana was a vast city full of adventure, sights, cafes, stores, markets and shops, but more-so, danger lurked in many corners throughout its labyrinthine streets, buildings and endless darkened alleyways.

The girls who waited at the arch were taken to their homes via carriages and transports, kept safe from exposure to the larger world outside the walls of the Campus. Julian preferred walking, so she dressed and armed herself appropriately. There was great wealth inside the city walls under the protective dome, but within these walls was great misery and poverty as well. Cut throats, thieves and other assorted villains abounded in many of the districts in the shadows and alleys outside the reach of the constabulary or the city guard.

Her Father had once commented there was no middle ground in this society. 'Either there are riches, or there are not,' he liked to say. When Julian had asked him if that applied to the merchants and sellers who plied their trades from the markets and the storefronts, he had laughed. Within the confines of my statement there are many shades of gray, but yes oh Daughter of mine, it applies. The merchant by day who comes up short would just as soon cut your throat and purse strings by night to make up the shortfall.

Julian, off to war again? called one of the girls from the steps, causing the group to laugh gaily.

Actually, Julian said turning to face them, one hand coming to rest on the pommel of her weapon, I'm off to see a boy. And you Marissa? Tea and cakes and gossip with your so called friends?

The laughter ended, cut off as if with a sword. Marissa, who many times had insisted Brillian was hers for the catching, gave her a scathing look.

You are wild and uncouth Julian. It never ceases to amaze me what your Father lets you get away with. Do you truly wish to roll in the gutter, or are you just too stupid to know what you have in your hand?

In my hand is a blade, and I know that I wish to be away from you, Julian snapped, turning on her heel taking the campus stairs two at a time, ignoring the renewed bit of nervous laughter from behind her.

Julian didn't hate them. She understood their view of things, but her Ability set her apart. Keeping it secret didn't mean to keep her eyes closed to the differences between their world and hers. As she slowed her pace after a time, Mitsuo's words of the chance to train kept echoing through her mind, and she had to forcefully put it to the back lest she lapse into daydreaming and find herself run over by a transport cart.

She stopped at the main thoroughfare, waiting for the crossing to clear. The street was filled with carts, carriages and transports, all of them wheeled in some fashion or another, seemingly driving themselves. The small Palantir shards built into their frames were spelled to motivate the vehicles. From her history lessons, she knew at one time horses and other beasts did this, but the crystals were so much more convenient. Horses were rare and hard to breed inside the confines of the domes, and were relegated to the city Guard for formal occasions.

'Less messy as well,' she thought as she waited for an opening. At this time of evening, traffic was always heavier with people leaving work or merchants trying to get supplies from one place to another for the following day's trade. She finally spied a break and skipped across the street. One driver of a coach yelled something at her as she made the far walk-way just a breath in front of his vehicle. She waved distractedly as she headed down the street toward her meeting with Danton.

The Cafe Besmont was situated on one of the most upscale thoroughfares of the Merchant district, just a few blocks from the Merchant Row which contained the estates of most of the more affluent Traders in LuSana. Julian's home was there, and it was somewhat of a tradition for her and Danton to stop here after school to do their own gossiping and occasionally, even studies. The cafe had an outdoor patio with round tables and chairs enclosed by a low metal fence facing the street. The thoroughfare was busy as usual as Julian gracefully hopped the iron bars to tap Danton on a shoulder.

"Ahh, the cats-paw arrives!. He said, his customary greeting to her. She seated herself across the table from him, waving at the waiter who was inside the main room.

So, how many cut-purse scalawags did you manage to slay on your way here today?

Just saw one, but Marissa's only weapon is her tongue, and it's not very sharp.

Did you perchance strike the first blow? Danton laughed.

No, only a riposte to a tired cut, she said, grinning as the waiter arrived.

The usual Lady Deltolle? he asked.

Of course Jens. Mull the wine a bit more this time would you though? It is chilly out here this evening.

Of course, Jens replied and moved back into the cafe.

Did you see the dome on the way here? Danton asked.

Wasn't paying much attention, Julian replied, looking to the sky.

The shield flickered more than usual, but in the reflected light of the city, she couldn't see beyond it.

Storms were heavy today, he said.

This is different from any other day, how?

Heavier. You are such a literalist sometimes.

It comes from being literal, she winked.

Oh. That explains so very much about you, he said, taking a long pull from the bottle of ale in hand.

I should sincerely hope so. Did your archery lessons go well?

No more than they should. There are times I wish I was back in sword classes. The longbows are quite the strain after thirty pulls.

Still not working with the projectile throwers? she asked.

Not for months yet, he said, his tone dejected.

You would have enjoyed today, she said trying to cheer him.

Brillian managing yet again to get embarrassed, and you managing to scare people into thinking you are some demon from the burning times is enjoyable? he frowned.

I...I only did what Master T'so wished of me.

What, he wished you to expose yourself as …. he left the last unsaid.

No. He needed someone to show how the sword dance is accomplished. It is so much different from the normal play, and I knew its steps.

Those steps caused quite a stir. I'll bet come week's beginning you will be in a conference room because of it. His tone was serious.

Of that I have no doubt. But it's nothing. Master T'so will back me up. We had a chat after class about it.

Danton looked over the lip of the bottle at her, narrowing his eyes a bit.

And?

And what. He let me know that if anything were to come of the demonstration, he would let the inquisitors know that nothing unnatural, she nearly spat the word, was involved.

And was there? he pushed.

Of course there was, she laughed and winked.

Dangerous girl, was all he said.

Jens returned with her glass and cordial and a small tray of buttered biscuits. Julian reached for the small purse attached to her side, but Danton waved her off. Remember. I have this. Not done yet Jens.

Very good Master Brens, the waiter nodded, heading back into the cafe.

Danton leaned forward. So, you must be very careful then. Our mutual friend Master Brillian was in a rare foul mood in classes this afternoon, and made mention of a certain young woman who would be regretting her actions soon.

He frightens me not Danton.

The inquisitors should. You know his Father has pull with the clergy.

And? she asked.

And...if they decide to really investigate, they could bring in an Inquisitor. If that happens, things will go badly.

"Only if the Shaman is better at the cast than I am, and from what I've seen the last few years, he will be some acolyte from the clergy wing brought in to further his training instead of the real thing."

You are so confident that you are better? Danton asked.

Yes. I appreciate the concern Dan, but I know my skills.

For your sake, I hope so. He sat back in his chair taking another long drink of the ale.

They sat quietly for a time, Julian sipping the wine and nibbling at the biscuits, Danton looking about, people-watching. The streets were still busy, the drivers of the carts and carriages shouting and gesturing with colorful invectives as they drove up and down the road.

Their silences were usually comfortable, but not to Julian this time.

How long have you known? she asked at last.

Long Jules. Long.

But I've been so careful, she said.

And you have. But I'm your best friend, and remember, you taught me the ways of observation. He smiled at her, and at that moment romantic thoughts began cramming into her head again.

I did at that, but still, she shrugged.

There are signs, if you know what to look for, and as I said, your best friend can't be that without at least a little insight, right?

True I suppose. She decided to confront him. Why don't you look at me as you do other girls?

This caught Danton completely off guard nearly choking on the ale mid-swallow. He laughed, but stopped at the serious look she gave him.

You are serious?

Do I sound the jester? she said, her voice tight.

Well, let me think on that. He rubbed a sleeve over his chin wiping away some foam.

After a moment, he said, I do look at you that way sometimes. He stopped there, pondering the bottle of ale as if it were some artifact of rare power. Julian held her tongue, knowing Danton wasn't done.

But, I've been your friend and companion since we were knee high to that fence there, he gestured. I'm a realist as well. Our worlds cross at school, but my Father is of the City Guard, and your Father, well...he's a titled Lord, and you have always been destined to another life. I've always known that, and I know that if I remain your friend, that is something that cannot lead to heartache and disappointment down the road. He sounded sad as he finished.

I didn't know, was all she could say.

My my, Julian. The princess of all things forbidden, mistress of the art of observation, didn't know? He teased.

I suppose that some things we ignore on purpose.

That, dear girl, is very true. He finished the bottle, waving at Jens and pointing to it for another. And that is all we shall say on the subject, okay? It is most uncomfortable, and I prefer to be comfortable around you.

Fine. For now.

For now? He raised an eyebrow.

For now. She looked down at her bag. So Danton Brens, what subject is troubling your tiny little mind today?

History. What else? he laughed.

Is it causing you problems, or are you questioning the material again? she asked, knowing full well Danton had a myriad of issues with official history lessons.

As is my usual rant, it is the presentation of obvious conjecture and outright obfuscation by our masters of drivel.

And this time the problem is? she pursued.

The same as it always is Jules. The Burning. It is glossed over, touched upon, and never really spoken of other than some ancient mystical hoodoo that gave us the Palantir crystals and the Abilities. They never speak of the wreck of the world, the ruined skies or anything that seems of serious consequence other than to lay it at the feet of the demons. The boogie-men under our beds and in our wardrobes.

I told you Danton, the Church requires control and income. It has always been thus, and it requires some things to remain, she paused, trying to think of the right word, mysterious and mystical.

Knowing that doesn't appease my thirst for the truth, He sighed.

Nor mine. But specifically, what caused this resurgence of bile toward our mystical brethren of Itan?

Today there was a lesson that spoke of the early years after the Burn, and of the journeys of several Church soldiers to the mountains of Tulesse. The texts on the passages contradict the books we were assigned last year in dates and times as well as circumstances. I pointed this out to the professor, and he brushed it off as inconsequential.

"Of course he did. The revisions come yearly, you know that. The question you need to ask yourself is why?"

I do. Nearly on a daily basis. I realize we are still considered children by our elders, but Julian, we are adults in every sense of the word other than our life experience. The changes made...they do nothing to improve on our knowledge. They only make it seem more mystical and reverent to the founders of the faith.

That is the first and most important way to control and govern Danton. Fill a child's head with worship and they are caught for life.

That I understand, but it's sometimes so transparent as to be demanding of questioning.

That's also done, my friend, for a very good reason.

And that is? he asked, but was interrupted as Jens brought him another ale. When the waiter left again, Julian answered, Because those who would dissent and question the hierarchy need to be weeded out. If by planting obvious issues they can discover those who actually use the minds they have been given, they can either co-opt them, or remove them. Remember, knowledge is power, and that sort of knowledge keeps the Church in control.

Fah. The answer was not what he wanted to hear, but she could see he knew she was right.

So, shall we get to the studies that must be drudged through? She smiled, and he returned it with a laugh.

It is, I suppose, what we are both here to do, eh?

However, as she watched Danton digging through his pack, she knew underneath it all, it was not.

***

Chapter 3

Merchant's Row was actually named Starion Road, but so seldom used it made for good trivia in bar games. It was a long, winding cobblestoned path barely wide enough for two carriages to pass each other. The street made its way over one of the most elevated hilly areas in LuSana. The street was lined with the oldest and most established villas of the Merchant class Lords and was the ultimate pinnacle of the wealthy titled traders. It wasn't mandatory they live here, but as with all things involving status and class, it was a given if you had the title, you lived here. The more prestigious were at the top of the hill with its astounding views of the city. Gated and guarded by the City Watch, the entrance to the street ensured it was protected from normal city traffic which congested most other parts of the central trading areas.

Julian approached the gate required by all on foot to pass through, and the guard in the hut beside it waved her by without a second glance. She had lived here her entire life, and all the guards knew the residents by rote. It would have been an entirely different matter for someone not known or invited.

Her home was located over halfway up the twisting road and was a good way to become thoroughly winded unless one was in fairly good shape. Julian was in peak physical condition however, and the hill had been hers to walk and run and play on since she was able to take her first steps. She knew every brick of it, at times hating every brick of it. For an adventurous soul, one with more than a few secrets, there were times when it felt more a prison than a home. She didn't think this way most of the time, for she loved her Father. She understood the trappings of power as a matter of practical learning but it still felt at times as if she were wearing an invisible collar and chain tying her to this street away from the wider world.

From the main road, she turned left to the gate controlling access to their estate. Most of the villas were built quite close together, and if one weren't looking carefully, it appeared rather than individual buildings, there was but one long and winding structure of wildly varying architecture going nearly to the top of the hill. In fact, each villa was built as close to each other as possible during the older times when the Palantir domes weren't as adept at keeping the torrential winds from blowing through, and thus had provided a natural wind break to those in the street or walkways between the homes.

The City Guard also provided soldiers to man the gates to the more affluent of the villa owners. The one stationed by her Family's gate smiled at her in while opening the iron-barred door.

Welcome home Miss.

Thank you Sargent Trent. Quiet day? she asked.

As always.

Too bad, she grinned.

Aye, there be times... he trailed off with a wink.

As she walked, the main doors to her Father's home opened. The house butler by the name of Meran greeted her. He was an old man, thin and nearly egg bald with rheumy eyes which missed nothing, much to Julian's consternation