Sacred Water, Book 2, The Time Before

By Charles Kaluza

The Time Before is the second book of the Sacred Water series and continues the saga of Daniel and Heather's struggles against those of the Red. The story begins with the kidnapping of Daniel because of his knowledge of the black powder. Their peoples face a full-scale invasion of their lands from those of the Red who are intent on capturing the source of the Sacred Water. The Sacred Water provides the iodine needed by the people of the Forest and those of both the North and South kingdoms. Without the iodine the people would be transformed into half brains because of the hypothyroidism in a single generation. The history of the peoples and their previous encounter with those of the Red is explored.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Charles Kaluza
• Release date: Aug 27, 2011
• ISBN: 9781466196766

Charles Kaluza

I am a retired ENT, Head and Neck Surgeon with a love of Science Fiction. The science and medicine in my books is based on reality with some room for growth.I was forced to retire because of medical problems but still enjoy life with a little fishing, flying and sailing to supplement the joy of my wife, children and grandchildren.

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Sacred Water

Book 2

The Time Before

Charles Kaluza, DO

Smashwords Edition

Copyright 2011 Charles Kaluza

Smashwords Edition, License Notes

This ebook is licensed for your personal enjoyment only. This ebook may not be re-sold or given away to other people. If you would like to share this book with another person, please purchase an additional copy for each recipient. If you’re reading this book and did not purchase it, or it was not purchased for your use only, then please return to Smashwords.com and purchase your own copy. Thank you for respecting the hard work of this author

Chapter 1

Heather found Daniel in their quarters. He stood staring at the clothes the royal tailor had delivered. She came up beside him and put her arm around his waist. The clothes laid out were of the highest fashion and beautifully made. Daniel said, I am of the Forest. These clothes are for one not of the Forest.

Heather replied, My stepmother meant well. She does not understand the ways of the Forest. The party is in our honor and we will wear what we’re comfortable with. I will tell my father and his Queen that our dress will not be formal.

When they entered the great hall which was now decorated as a ballroom, their entrance was announced with trumpets. Daniel was more than a little self-conscious. Heather held his hand tightly as they walked past hundreds of dignitaries from throughout the kingdom. Daniel in his loose fitting trousers and layered shirts and vest stood out sharply against all the brightly colored silk robes. Heather was dressed in the white gown of a bride but her shoulders were draped with the fighting cape of the Forest. Her hair was still quite short and instead of a jeweled crown she wore a crown of leaves and flowers, much like she had at their wedding.

When they arrived at the head table the trumpet sounded again and her father, the King of the Northern Kingdom, and his Queen, her stepmother, entered the hall. Everyone bowed as they passed, except for a small group of those from the Forest who were in the far corner of the hall. Daniel much wished he could hide with his friends instead of being on display. The music continued until the King and Queen reached their seats and sat down. There was a general flurry as people took their own seats. When the commotion had quieted, the King raised his glass with this left-hand and said, A toast to my daughter and my new son!

Everyone stood and cheered with their glasses raised until Heather and Daniel stood and accepted their toast. When quiet again returned Daniel raised his glass and said, A toast to my father-in-law and the peace he has returned to our lands.

When the cheering had again settle down the King announced simply, Let the feast begin.

People began sharing the bread loaves scattered amongst the many settings. A salad of pickled cabbage and asparagus was then served. Daniel soon lost track of the many courses. The food was not as varied in flavor as he had experienced in the Southern Kingdom but they made up for it in volume. Music played continuously in the background and the levels of conversation would swell and decline with the serving of each new course. Despite Daniel’s attempts to limit his wine intake, his head was feeling a bit giddy.

The trumpets were sounded and a huge wedding cake was brought forth. The King rose and said, A toast to my daughter Heather and my new son Daniel. May they enjoy life together and bring me many grandchildren.

The toasting began in earnest. It seemed each and every dignitary needed to toast Daniel and Heather, and the King. Many of the toasts were long-winded and Daniel had trouble following their meaning, possibly because of the wine. When at last it was time to cut the wedding cake Daniel and Heather rose together and with musical fanfare sliced into the cake. As customary, the first piece was presented to Heather’s father and his Queen. When he nodded approval, Heather and Daniel shared a piece together to much applause. They returned to their seats and the cake was cut and distributed to everyone.

The Queen arose and said, I would hear the story of your wedding.

Heather and Daniel rose together and Daniel said, The story is simple and probably not of much interest. If you would hear it, I would ask my friends of the Forest to tell of the story of our wedding.

With the general clapping of approval the group of hunters from the Forest pushed three tables together and climbed on top of their impromptu stage. Jeremy acted as the orator. They quickly set the scene of their camp in the highlands of the Southern Kingdom. Heather’s injury and rescue were described, as well as Daniel’s lifesaving transfer of his blood to Heather. Daniel’s profound weakness was displayed by the actor, who had to propose to Heather while crawling. The King’s arrival on a horse was emulated with much laughter. The wedding ceremony ended with the now famous kiss that caused Daniel to pass out.

Those of the Forest accepted the applause and laughter of the assembly with simple bows. They reassembled their tables and received new glasses of wine. The Queen rose again and said, I would that I could have been at their wedding. I thank you for your telling the tale for us. I would now hear the story of my husband’s injury and his saving.

Daniel knew this request would be forthcoming and he had tried to prepare. Maybe it was the wine or maybe it was the large crowd but he had trouble finding his voice. Heather arose with him and when he had trouble starting the story she helped him by setting the scene and describing the attack by the Red Ambassador. Daniel recovered and continued the story about how they rushed to the King’s chamber and found him wounded, having defeated the assassin using only his left arm. As Daniel described his medical findings and realization of the poison on the sword, Heather allowed her eyes to sweep the audience. She saw the head royal physician sitting with one of the church elders. Their faces revealed more than jealousy; it was almost hatred of Daniel as he told the rescue story. Heather could hear the words Daniel was saying as he described the need to amputate the King’s arm, but her mind was focused on the intensity of the emotions displayed by those she now considered enemies. She may have won her battle with the church elders and the royal physicians, but peace with them seemed impossible.

When Daniel’s tale was finished they sat down and just listened to the many other stories that were told. The evening wore on but her heart was no longer in the festivities. Her warrior nature had again risen to the surface and she was contemplating the dangers her enemies in the palace represented, as well as the danger of the Red Ambassador. Daniel noted her change in attitude but waited until the festivities were completed and they were returning to their own quarters before asking what the problem was. He listened to Heather’s description of the royal physician and church elder’s response to his story. As they approached the door to their quarters he said, Tonight we celebrate, tomorrow you can worry again. He then picked Heather up and opened the door, saying, At least I now have the strength to carry my bride over the threshold.

Heather hugged his neck and whispered in his ear, And what else would you have strength for tonight my love?

* * *

The next day brought more fresh snow and most of the dignitaries were slow in departing the palace for their own homes and villages. Heather was eager to resume her planning for potential threats, but the King had not yet much energy and his advisers would politely listen to Heather but take no action. That evening Daniel listened patiently as she complained about the lack of concern of those in the palace. He gently reminded her that she still had those of the Forest in her service. She was quiet for about a minute before saying, I would have our young priest travel to the Forest to continue his studies of the times before. Do you think it possible?

Daniel replied, Travel during the winter is much slower and more arduous but with proper preparations it is possible. Would the church leaders allow him to go?

He has been ostracized since his support of the old law. I am sure I can arrange the request such that they would be happy to have him gone. You think those of the Forest would be willing to risk taking him?

Those of the Forest have pledged their services to you. They will do as you ask.

Heather now had a mission and there was more eagerness in her eyes. Daniel suggested that they should go into the city and find Jeremy. Concern was immediately evident on Heather’s face and she tried to make excuses for not leaving the palace. Daniel took her hand and said, I know you would protect me but you cannot do it by keeping me in this cage. My spirit will wither.

Tears filled Heather’s eyes and she tried to explain the danger she felt from the royal physicians and church elders. If Daniel were even to accidentally break another law, they would again pounce him. It wasn’t safe. So she again described the hatred she saw on their faces and voiced her concern about a possible assassination attempt.

Daniel held her close and said, Just as your father could not protect you by confining you to your home, you cannot protect me by keeping me inside these walls. My spirit will not allow it. You must find another way.

Heather knew Daniel was right, but the fear of losing him was a heavy burden. She finally said, Let us go and see if we can find Jeremy.

Daniel was not surprised to see Heather don her sword as well as her cape as they prepared to face the snow on their way to the tavern. Jeremy had sampled many of the taverns and had chosen the Rusty Tavern as his personal favorite. Daniel and Heather made their way to the wharf section of town. The freshly fallen snow bestowed a look of freshness upon this old district. The moon was out and there was plenty of light. When they arrived at the tavern there was no doubt that Jeremy was there. Laughter rang out as he finished one of his stories. The local patrons had adopted Jeremy and the other hunters but when Heather and Daniel entered, the room became quiet. Jeremy welcomed them warmly and brought them to his table. Gradually the noise level returned as others began telling their stories.

Jeremy said, About time you two got away from the palace. Let me get a couple more glasses of beer. You know, your brewmasters do a pretty good job.

They enjoyed watching and listening to the many stories being told. When Heather was finally comfortable with the setting, she asked Jeremy about guiding the young priest to the Forest for his studies. Jeremy took a sip of his beer and licked the froth from his upper lip before saying, We can make the journey. He is a good man and travels well. When would you have us leave?

Soon, maybe on the day after the morrow.

Not a problem. Several of those of the Forest would like to return home and would be happy to leave with him. Daniel, you must need another beer.

Daniel accepted the second beer and was content to sit back and watch the antics of his dear friend. It was getting late when Captain John entered. Jeremy waived him over and he joined them at the table. He nodded to Daniel and Heather before saying, Princess, it has been awhile since we last met here. Does you being here mean that I’m in for more adventures?

Heather smiled and said, We’re here to find Jeremy but I would like to speak to you of a voyage.

A winter voyage?

Heather replied, The ship of the Red Ambassador you said was built for exploration. I would have you set out on such a voyage.

To where?

To wherever the Red Ambassador had meant to sail. I doubt that he would’ve gone north because of the ice pack.

Captain John sipped his beer quietly before answering, To the South is only the barren desert.

Heather asked, Does the desert go forever?

Who knows? The ship would hold supplies for a two-month journey. I would suppose we could sail South for a month and still be able to return home if the desert did not end.

Heather asked, When could you be ready to set sail?

Captain John took another drought of his beer and said, If we had access to the military supplies, we could be ready in one week. I would assume this would be considered a military mission.

It was Heather’s turn for a moment of silent reflection before she answered, Yes, I’m afraid it probably is a military mission.

My crew and I will sail under your name because of the pledge we made. However, getting access to the supplies will require a more formal authorization. Can you obtain this authorization?

My father’s advisers do not sense the urgency of the threat from the Red Ambassador. I’ll speak directly with my father for the authorization. Plan on sailing in ten days time.

The ship will be ready.

The evening was getting late when Daniel and Heather headed back to the palace with their friends. They were somewhat boisterous coming through the gate but Heather didn’t really mind. Moving forward with their planning was much preferred to arguing with her father’s advisers. Now she had to do was get her father to agree. This would be a problem for the morning.

They joined the King in their private quarters for breakfast. His strength continued to improve but fatigue still limited his activity. He listened first to Heather’s request to send the young priest to the Forest for study of the ancient scrolls and the time before. This simple request was complicated by the need to obtain permission from the church elders. Her father said, The assignment of the individual priest is the responsibility of the church elders. I, of course, have the right to request a priest be assigned for a task but the trick is to make sure they assign the one you want.

Heather responded, I doubt if any of the other priest would want to go.

Her father smiled and said, Political decisions sometimes overrule common sense. We need to present the request in a manner that maintains the elders’ sense of control but also accomplishes our goal.

Daniel asked, Would it matter if those of the Forest who would be leading this expedition requested the young priest whom they already knew?

Heather’s father nodded his head and said, An excellent suggestion. It removes my daughter’s conflict from the process. I will have the request submitted this morning. What else did you want to talk about?

Heather described her plan for a voyage of exploration. Her father asked a number of pertinent questions. He agreed with her assessment of the dangers represented by the Red Ambassador. He then expressed his concern about the risk involved in a winter voyage. Heather was insistent that the potential danger justified the risk. Finally, her father agreed to authorize the supplying of the ship and the voyage of exploration. Despite the morning hour, his fatigue was showing and Heather left to continue her planning alone.

Chapter 2

Heather worked hard on her planning but things never went as smoothly as she wanted. There was always another bureaucratic hurdle. Those of the Forest had been delayed for over a week while the church elders completed their decision making process. In the end, Heather got what she wanted but not without playing their game. Her father counseled patience but it was not her nature.

She wanted to have a formal going away party for those of the Forest, who would be leaving, but Daniel insisted they would enjoy more an evening at the Rusty Tavern. The evening had gone well with good food and stories upon stories. Jeremy seemed intent on closing the tavern down, but for Daniel and Heather it was time to leave. Opening the door of the tavern, they were greeted with heavy snowfall and a cold wind. They pulled their capes tighter around themselves and started back towards the palace. As they climbed the hill away from the harbor, Heather's sense of contentment seemed to dissolve and she became anxious. Daniel was only minimally aware of the change in his bride until she uncovered her sword. He asked, What is bothering my love on such a good evening?

The words were no sooner out of his mouth than the attackers were upon them. They seemed to come from everywhere in the narrow street intersection. Their weapons were simple spears and a net. Heather's sword flashed and she said, Stay next to me and we'll try to work our way along this wall.

Daniel did as he was told and they began working their way back down the hill with Heather's sword their only protection. Her fierce thrusting kept all the attackers just out of reach and those who tried to close upon them paid the price. They had made it almost halfway back to the tavern when Heather slipped on the snow. It was just enough of an opening, and Daniel found himself entangled in a net. He was suddenly dragged away while his wife was surrounded with attackers, unable to respond to his cry.

The net was wrapped around him tightly, preventing all struggles on his part. He was thrown onto a horse-drawn sleigh that immediately departed. Heather cried out but the snow blanketed all sound. She went on the offensive and suddenly all of her attackers seem to disappear. She was alone with several bodies and wounded scattered around the narrow street. Sliding and running down the hill she reached the Rusty Tavern and threw the door open. Jeremy and the few hunters left were immediately on their feet grabbing their own cloaks. The look on Heather's face said everything. She said simply, Near the top of the hill, they took him in a sleigh.

When they reached the site of the battle, Jeremy and the hunters immediately began tracking the horse sleigh. Heather continued on up the hill towards the palace, running as hard as she could in the heavy snow. She arrived at the gate and found Elrod on duty. She told him to sound the alarm and prepare those of the Forest to travel. She made her way to her father's quarters. The alarm had already sounded and he was partially dressed when she arrived. She said simply, They have kidnapped Daniel and I wasn't able to stop them.

Her father looked at the blood splattered across her and knew it wasn't because she hadn't tried. He asked, Your plan?

Jeremy is tracking the sleigh, I am leaving in pursuit with some of those from the Forest. I would like you to reinforce us.

I will send half of the palace garrison but we must not leave the palace unguarded. I wish my strength were back because I would lead them. Go, may the God of the Sacred Water go with you. My troops will follow as soon as they are ready.

Heather reached up and gave her father a hug, tears were streaming down her face but she said nothing else. Her father returned the hug with his one arm and wanted so to comfort her and protect her, but the time was for action. He said simply, Go. The one you love needs your help.

In the few minutes she was gone, Elrod had gathered forty of those from the Forest who were ready to travel. He was also dressed for travel with his pack and spear. Heather did not even try to argue with him. She said, My father's troops will follow us. Jeremy is ahead scouting. I know not where this journey will take us, and I thank you for your help.

As they headed through the gate another of the Forest, Ben, arrived carrying Betty on his back. She too was dressed for travel with her small backpack and short sword. Heather acknowledged them with a nod and said simply, The trail begins just below the top of the hill above the Rusty Tavern. Some will go ahead and scout the way Jeremy has gone.

The main group made good time and arrived at the scene of the attack less than two hours after Daniel had been taken. The heavy snow continued but those of the Forest were able to easily track the way the sleigh had gone. Their small lanterns made only the smallest dent in the blackness of the snowstorm. Heather trudged on, with her small militia, and a heaviness in her heart, fearing the loss she should have prevented. Occasionally, one of the Forest would appear out of the darkness and report before another would leave in their loping run to maintain communication with those ahead. It should have been nearly daybreak when they arrived near an abandoned wharf area, but the darkness had receded only to a muted grayness.

Jeremy was waiting and reported, I caught up with them just as they were loading Daniel aboard a boat. They left immediately and sailed down stream. Others of the Forest are trying to track them from the bank but in the darkness the sound of oars is their only guide.

Heather thought but for a moment before saying, We must find Captain John and give chase. I would those of the Forest divided into two groups, one to continue tracking onshore, the other to set sail with me.

Elrod spoke up saying, Captain John should be with the boat at the military docking area which is back upstream about two miles.

Jeremy named four others from the Forest to continue with the other scouts who had already headed off downstream. They needed no other instruction, but would continue their leapfrog technique and try to keep up with the boat. Heather found Ben at her side and without saying anything, he guided her back upstream. The snow was heavy and the trail in poor repair, making the going slow. Those of the Forest tried to create the path but it was still very tiring and the pace much too slow for Heather.

By the time they arrived daylight was evident only by the lighter grayness; visibility was still less than 100 feet. There was activity aboard the ship and men were busy shoveling snow from the deck and clearing the rigging. Heather could hear Captain John's voice giving orders but could not make out the words, so muffled by the heavy snow. Nobody seemed to notice Heather and her small militia until she began carefully climbing the narrow walkway that connected the ship to the dock. Captain John appeared and said, Princess, it would be best if your men could get below quickly so we can cast off. You and your Betty should take the Ambassador's cabin. We will be ready to give chase in just a few minutes.

Heather did not even reply but headed towards the cabin where her father had slept on their journey north such a short time ago. She tried to shake as much snow off as possible before entering the cabin. It was still furnished in all red and nothing seemed to have changed. She was just taking her cape off when Betty appeared. Betty took the cape from her and told her, Princess, you need to rest. Take off your wet leggings and climb into bed. I will get them dry for you.

Heather protested saying, I need to confer with Captain John. Sleep will have to wait.

Betty chided her saying, The captain doesn't need your help. If we're going to rescue Daniel we have to be rested. It's your turn to rest.

Despite her weariness and concern, Heather had to smile just a little at the commands Betty was issuing. They made sense and so Heather did as suggested and climbed into bed, knowing she would be unable to sleep. She felt the ship begin to move and the rocking and creaking soon allowed sleep to overtake her anxiety. Her dreams were not pleasant, with images of Daniel being tortured continuously entering her sleep. The darkness of sleep between periods of dreams did provide some rest, and when the character of the boat's motion began to change, she awoke. The small window let in enough light that she could see the grayness of the snowstorm was receding. Betty was sleeping on a mat near the door.

She arose and dressed but could not leave the cabin without awakening Betty. She told her, It is now your time to rest. I need to speak to Captain John.

Betty slid her mat away from the door and replied, If you need me, I come.

Heather nodded a reply and opened the cabin door. The short passage led to another door that opened to the outdoors. The snow had definitely slackened but the biting wind remained strong. She made her way to the small pilothouse, holding on to the rail to compensate for the rolling of the ship. The pilothouse provided some protection from the elements and within she found Captain John staring intently ahead through the snow. From there, he would give correction commands to the young man at the helm. Another sailor would relay his commands to those controlling the sails. Only after the coming about would he allow his attention to waver from the course of the ship and acknowledge Heather.

He said, The oars give our enemy some advantage here in the river. I may not be able to catch them until after they cross the bar. Your friends from the Forest seem to have kept up somehow and occasionally give us an update from the shore. I don't think those in the other ship know they are being pursued.

How far behind are we?

Captain John replied, I figured those who kidnapped your Daniel had at least a ten mile start. It would seem we have closed the gap somewhat but they are still several miles ahead. We will reach the ocean bar in about two hours, not enough time to catch them.

The ocean is large, how will we find them?

Captain John peered silently into the snow before answering, They must be sailing south for the ice is to the north. We will meet them in the passage.

It was Heather's turn for silence. She stared out into the snow watching the swirling white and gray letting a thought try to form. She quietly asked, How do we decide which passage?

Captain John was somewhat surprised by her question and replied, I would expect the kidnappers to know only of one passage. How would they have knowledge of the secret passage we used?

The knowledge is not secret, it is just not used. If the kidnappers know of this passage we will not be successful in rescuing Daniel.

Captain John objected, But how would they know of it?

Heather was still feeling the effect of her hard march and the fatigue slowed her thinking. She replied, I would expect Daniel's kidnapping has something to do with the Red Ambassador. He had full access to the library of the Southern Kingdom. They have transcribed many of the ancient scrolls. This knowledge may have been contained in the library and have been discovered by the Red Ambassador.

We have but one ship and must choose. It is your Daniel and you are the warrior. The decision must be yours.

When must I decide?

By morning.

I will decide.

They sailed on in relative silence. How Captain John found his way amongst the swirling gray was a mystery to Heather. Visibility was only a little better and most of the time she could not see the shore. She asked, Do you know the ship and crew who have taken Daniel?

From the description Jeremy gave it would be one Captain Dirk and his ship the Crow. Amongst those of us who considered ourselves free traders, he was not trusted. His desire for a profit always overrode his concern for everyone else. He could not be relied upon to give aid when aid was needed.

Heather asked, Could he have had contact with the Red Ambassador?

Captain John was busy giving orders and did not reply until he saw something he recognized onshore. Heather felt the ship turning as people carried out his orders. A small break in the clouds was visible on the horizon and it appeared the sun would be setting soon. Captain John finally replied, The storm has about blown itself out. We will have clear weather for several days now but the wind will be brisk. I'm afraid sickness of the sea will be an issue for those of you not of the Sea. My mistress means to dance with us and without your sea legs it will be hard for you to keep up. The temperature is also going to drop and we will need to be chipping ice.

Heather was about to repeat her question about the Red Ambassador when Captain John continued, I had never heard of this Red Ambassador until my release from prison. While in prison I did hear stories of many things. One of the stories was about a secret voyage to unknown lands. I know not if the story concerned the Red Ambassador but it is possible.

Heather could feel the change in the wave action, a slow rolling motion was being added to the regular choppiness of the waves. From her last voyage she knew that it meant they were nearing the bar. She said, I will check on those of the Forest to make sure they are ready. I will tell you my decision at first morning light.

Heather made her way back below. Those of the Forest were scattered amongst the many small holds. Their spirits were good and Elrod had made sure their hammocks were properly made and aligned to limit rolling with the ship. She sought out Jeremy, who was already looking a little green. He said, I think those of the Forest were not meant for the sea.

Heather asked, Have you taken of Elrod's ginger tea?

I told him I would prefer a glass of ale, but I drank some anyway. Now I'm not sure if I even want the ale.

Heather told him of the decision she needed to make but Jeremy had little to say other than, Heather of the Northern Kingdom, Daniel told us you were a warrior and you have proven this to be true; we will trust your decision. In the Forest we are taught to trust our hearts when deciding. You must make this decision.

Heather left to check on Betty, the rolling and pitching of the ship continued to increase. She had to concentrate as she made her way to the cabin of the Red Ambassador. Inside the cabin Betty was now lying in a hammock stretched from the foot of her bed to the cabin wall. The light from the small window was fading but Heather could tell Betty was not doing well. Heather tried to sound cheerful when she asked Betty if she was okay.

Betty replied, I be okay, are you okay?

Captain John says we'll have to dance with the sea for a while. I think it would be best if you tried to get some more sleep.

Betty said, Us little ones don't dance well. Do you need something to eat?

Heather said, I'm not hungry but some of Elrod's ginger tea might be good for me. Have you had any?

Yes Princess.

Heather was about to go look for Elrod when she heard a soft knock on the door. She opened the door and there was Elrod with a pot of his ginger tea. He said, "Princess, it would be best if