Return of the Mage Lords (Amica Saga #6)

By Richard S. Tuttle

Over four hundred years ago, Terrus the Liberator ended the Mage Wars by banishing the mage lords to the island of Lantana. The world was at peace, but that era of peace has ended. Alfor and his rogue mages have seized control of the Northlands of Amica and are bringing about the return of the mage lords. As the world rushes to war, the Amican Alliance is faced with an ever-widening front in the north while Alfor tries to bring the mages of Lantana into the war as his allies. If all of the mages unite against Amica, the world is certainly doomed, but there is a single ray of hope standing in the way of that destruction. The Avenging Shadow wields the Sword of Articus, and he plans to take on Alfor and the mages, even if he must do so alone.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Richard S. Tuttle
• Release date: Jan 12, 2016
• ISBN: 9781311495280

Richard S. Tuttle

eBook Reviews Weekly called Richard “...one of this century's leading authors of innovative fantasy tales." Molly Martin calls him “...a skillful weaver of tales.”Richard S. Tuttle began his writing career in 1997 with the release of the Targa Trilogy (Origin Scroll, Dark Quest, Ancient Prophecy). That trilogy became the foundation for the Alcea Collection, a seventeen volume epic fantasy collection of three series (Targa Trilogy, Sword of Heavens, Demonstone Chronicles).His other works include the Forgotten Legacy, an eight volume series, Complement for a King, a two volume miniseries, and the Amica Saga, his most current work currently in its seventh volume.

Book preview

Chapter 1

The Gambler

Prince Blorith of Dolmatia sat at a gaming table in the basement of a tavern in Chared Hull. The air was thick with smoke, and the constant din of a hundred voices irritated the prince. There were many times that he had enjoyed the atmosphere of the illegal casino, but this night was different. Nothing seemed to be going his way. His usual companions had failed to appear and gather around him as they usually did, and his luck at the gaming tables was atrocious. He hadn't won a single wager all night, and while they wouldn't dare to do so publicly, people were snickering about it behind his back. He was about to acknowledge his miserable luck and leave the casino when an older gentleman sat down next to him. Prince Blorith glanced at the man but could not place his face. That was unusual, as the prince knew just about everyone in Chared Hull, and the illegal casino didn't open its doors to just anyone. The man must have felt the prince staring at him as he turned and met Blorith's gaze. Without any flicker of recognition in the stranger's eyes, the man looked away and placed a couple of gold coins on the table as a wager. Prince Blorith continued to stare at the man as if he might somehow remember who the man was. He watched the stranger smile thinly as his wager won. The man scooped up his bounty and placed another couple of coins on the table in a new wager.

Prince Blorith sighed and shook his head, giving up his attempt to remember a face that he had probably never seen before. The prince gathered his remaining coins and shoved them into a pouch. As he did so, the stranger won again. Another thin smile creased the stranger's face, but the prince had already lost interest in the man, refusing to acknowledge the man's incredible luck. Prince Blorith picked up his drink to finish it before he left the casino. He watched as the stranger won a third time, a near impossible feat considering the odds of the game. The prince glanced around the table to gauge the reactions of the other gamblers, but none of them seemed to notice. Perhaps it was because the stranger's bets were only a couple of coins each while others were wagering stacks of coins, but no one seemed to notice his incredible luck.

When the stranger placed his next bet, Prince Blorith hurriedly placed a couple of coins on the same number as the stranger. The wager won, and the prince's eyes grew wide with amazement.

Prince Blorith finally won, chuckled one of the gamblers. I thought he would go the whole evening without a win.

The prince glared hard and long at the heckler until the man scurried away in fear. If the prince's followers had arrived on time, they surely would have escorted the heckler into a dark alley to wipe the smirk off his face, but those followers had failed to show up. The prince then turned to see what number the stranger would choose for the next bet, but the man was gone. The prince hurriedly scooped up his winnings and then turned to look for the stranger. The man had disappeared. Prince Blorith hurried away from the table and went in search of the lucky man. He finally saw the stranger leaving the casino. He raced after him, but he didn't catch up to him until they had reached top of the stairs and entered the common room of the tavern. The prince grabbed the man's arm.

Where are you going? asked the prince.

The stranger stared at the prince, no spark of recognition in his eyes. What's it to you? he asked. I'm going for a drink.

I'll join you, the prince offered eagerly. There's a table right here.

I have no desire to drink here, retorted the stranger, nor am I desirous of company.

The stranger pulled his arm free of the prince's grasp and proceeded to leave the tavern. The prince stared in confusion as the man left. He was not used to people refusing him. He would normally get angry and lash out in a tirade at such rude behavior, but for some reason, the prince remained calm. As he watched the stranger leave through the door to the street, the prince wondered why a man with such a streak of luck would suddenly walk away from the gaming tables in the middle of his great fortune. As he pondered the riddle, he suddenly understood. The man wasn't lucky at all; he had been cheating. When the prince had mimicked the man's fourth bet and won, everyone's attention was drawn to the payout. It was clear in the prince's mind that the stranger didn't want the light of truth shone on his good fortune. That was why he fled from the table.

Prince Blorith raced out of the tavern and onto the street. He glanced around and saw the stranger over a block away. He hurried after the man and caught up to him just as he was entering a small tavern near the port. The prince followed the man inside the tavern. The place was empty except for two men at the table farthest from the door. Those men sat quietly talking to one another, seemingly oblivious to the new arrivals. The stranger sat down at an empty table near the door, and the prince swiftly sat across from the gambler. The stranger looked across the table with a glare of irritation in his eyes.

I have no need of company, the stranger said. I thought I made myself clear.

How do you do it? demanded the prince. I know you were cheating. How did you do it?

I have no idea what you are talking about, the stranger responded.

You wagered small amounts so that no one would notice you, said the prince, but my identical wager brought notice to you. That's why you left in a hurry. Tell me how you do it?

I don't cheat, the stranger replied defensively. I am just lucky.

Nonsense, retorted the prince. The odds of four wins in a row are astronomical. Any gambler having such a streak would have increased his wager the third or fourth time, but you didn't. You kept the wager small so as to avoid notice. I am not a fool, nor will I get you in trouble. I just want to learn how to win.

The serving girl arrived with a pitcher of ale and two mugs. The prince handed the girl a coin and shooed her away. He then focused his stare on the stranger, refusing to even blink until the man divulged his secret. Eventually, the stranger sighed.

I really don't cheat, the stranger said softly. I just have the ability to see the future at times. It is not something I can teach you.

The prince frowned and sighed, his disappointment obvious. A moment later, the prince's eyes brightened as a thought passed though his mind. Even if he couldn't learn to win at will, he could still use the stranger's talent to win.

Who are you? asked the prince. I know almost everyone in Chared Hull, and I have never seen you before.

Lord Carson of Arad, answered the foreigner.

From the Riviera? questioned the prince. Why don't you gamble there instead of an underground casino way up here?

They don't like my gift, shrugged Lord Carson. They think I am a cheater, but they cannot prove it. Still, they have the right to ban me, and they have done so. I am no longer welcome in any casino in the Riviera.

And that is why you are so cautious at the tables, the prince nodded with understanding. Why then make such small wagers? Why not just go in and make one large wager? You will have made a fortune before they can ban you.

It's not the money that I crave, explained the lord. I just need to win. It doesn't matter if the stakes are small as long as I win.

It's not the money? the prince echoed with disbelief. That's hard to swallow. I have a fair amount of gold myself, but I never tire of getting more.

I own a gem mine in Arad, shrugged Lord Carson. I have no need for further wealth. I already possess more gold than I can ever spend. The lord sighed and shook his head. I don't expect you to understand, he said softly, but there is a certain thrill to winning at the gaming tables, even when the rewards hold little importance.

My thrills come from amassing great amounts of gold, retorted the prince. You can continue to wager small amounts to remain unnoticed, but I will not be so reserved. Let's return to the casino.

Lord Carson shook his head. Your plan is full of faults, he said. Within a short time, we would be discovered. Besides, your greed would wipe out the casino in one night. Where then would you go to gamble? From what I understand, gambling is illegal in Dolmatia, and that casino is the only one in the entire country. Are you willing to throw away the joy of going there every night for a small fortune gathered in a single night? Is there no other way you can think of to use my gift than a momentary victory that you will regret later?

The prince frowned. What do you mean? he asked. How else can your gift be used?

Gold is merely a tool to provide life with some entertainment, replied the lord. There are other means to procure enjoyment. Give me your hand?

The prince had no idea what the man was talking about, but he found himself extending his arm towards the stranger. Lord Carson grasped the prince's hand and closed his eyes. A moment later, the lord's eyes popped open with a look of shock.

Who are you? Lord Carson asked, a sense of awe in his tone.

I am Prince Blorith, the prince said proudly. I am the second of three sons of King Shedrok of Dolmatia. Did you not know?

You will be king, the lord announced.

That's not going to happen, the prince shook his head. My father is in good health, and he has many years ahead of him. Even if he were to die, Prince Angar would be next in line, and he is only a couple of years older than me. He would undoubtedly have children long before my chance for the crown arrived. Even if he died without a son, Prince Chezaka, my younger brother would probably be elevated before me. The king likes to think that he has only two sons, and I am not one of them. If he hasn't already changed the line of succession, I'm sure he will before he dies.

You sound bitter, commented the foreign lord.

Why shouldn't I be bitter? snapped the prince. Angar is to get everything just because he was born first? I am the born leader. The people of Chared Hull follow me without a crown. Angar merely does whatever my father tells him to. He has no ability to think for himself. What kind of king would that make?

Lord Carson sighed and nodded. My visions are seldom wrong, stated the lord, and in that vision, the crown sat upon your head. You will become king someday.

That will not be, the prince shook his head, his scowl showing that he thought the lord was toying with him. You're just trying to change the subject so that I don't drag you back to the casino.

Think what you will, shrugged Lord Carson, but winning the crown would mean much more than bankrupting an underground casino. Think what you could do with such power at your fingertips.

I have power now, shrugged the prince. I do whatever I want whenever I want, and if someone objects, I have followers to dole out punishment. Let's get back to the topic that interests me. I want all of the casino's gold.

And I want the casino to remain open, retorted the lord. We are at cross purposes. What will you do? Will you have your minions murder me for my failure to please you?

Don't tempt me, scowled the prince. I am used to getting my way.

So I have heard, the lord replied, his words rolling off his tongue like he had bitten into a bitter fruit. You will gain nothing by killing me, but you will lose a chance to enjoy life on a grander scale than anything you have experienced so far.

The prince's face clouded with confusion. What are you talking about? he asked.

I have heard many tales about Prince Blorith during my travels, the foreign lord said with a thin smile on his lips. You have a band of thugs that usually shadow you to enforce your will wherever you go. The people of Chared Hull, who you think follow you, actually despise you. They call you the king of thugs.

You dare to taunt me? scowled the prince. I will make you pay for those words.

Will you? taunted the lord. I don't see your thugs hanging around right now. Will you teach me a lesson on your own? Or will you swallow your pride long enough to realize that I am not trying to degrade you. I'm actually trying to help you.

You talk in riddles, spat the prince. I grow tired of listening to you.

As the prince rose to his feet to leave, the lord reached out to snare the prince's arm.

I will make a deal with you, Prince Blorith, the lord said calmly. We will have a short contest right here. We will arm wrestle. If you win, we will return immediately to the casino and break their bank. If I win, you will allow me to be your companion for a week. If at the end of that week, you still wish to return to the casino, we will do so. Are you game?

The prince pulled his arm free with little effort. He stared at the older man and saw nothing to indicate any extraordinary physical strength. The wager didn't appear to be a trick of any kind, and he would eventually get the casino's gold whether he won or lost the match. He shrugged and sat back down.

Best two out of three, smiled the lord. Agreed?

The prince nodded and the match began. Prince Blorith held his arm defensively, letting the lord be the aggressor. The foreigner was no weakling, but the prince held no fear of losing to him. He let the lord strain on his way to a victory that would never be. When he tired of the game, the prince aggressively forced the older man's arm to the table. A wide grin spread across his face.

I will spend the time during the next bout planning how I will spend the casino's money, laughed the prince. You are no match for me.

Lord Carson reached into a pouch and pulled out a small vial filled with an amber liquid. He quickly poured the contents of the vial into his mouth.

What is that? the prince asked.

Just a potion, smiled the lord. You are stronger than you look.

You are cheating again! accused the prince.

Lord Carson smiled. Again? he echoed. I wasn't cheating the first time. Besides, you could also drink something right now if you wanted to. There is no rule against it. Shall I wait while you swallow something?

Let's just get this over with, scowled the prince. I'm in a hurry to get back to the casino.

Do you want this fast or slow? the lord asked as the men clasped hands again. Oh, that's right. You said that you were in a hurry.

The lord instantly slammed the prince's arm to the table. The prince's eyes widened in surprise. He was sure that he had been bested by the lord's quick start catching him unawares.

Try that again, scowled the prince.

Perhaps slow this time, smiled the lord as they clasped hands again. This bout will decide the winner.

The prince braced for a sudden move by the lord, but the foreigner slowly pushed the prince's arm towards the table. The prince fought against the assault with everything he had, but he could not stop the slow and constant pressure from the older man. Eventually, the prince's arm slammed against the table.

What was in that potion? demanded the prince.

It is an elixir, smiled the lord. It is extremely expensive, which is why I didn't want to use it if I could beat you without it.

Give me one, demanded the prince.

I only have one left, answered the foreigner.

So? retorted the prince. Give it to me. I will pay you for it when we win at the casino.

It is far more important than the gold you would give me for it, replied the lord. I usually carry a couple in case I need them to survive. Giving you one to merely satisfy your curiosity would be a waste.

Can't you get any more? asked the prince.

Lord Carson sighed and nodded. I suppose I can, he admitted. I have a friend here in Chared Hull who can supply some more. Perhaps you have heard of him. He is Lord Dangar of Arad. He has recently moved here to settle down in a cooler climate than the Riviera. I believe he has a petition before the king to be recognized as a Dalmatian lord.

I have not heard of him, stated the prince, but if he is bringing wealth with him, my father will approve his petition. Does he make the elixir?

He does, answered Lord Carson as he reached into his pouch and retrieved another vial. He handed the vial to the prince. You will owe me a huge favor for this. Agreed?

The prince nodded. What is in the potion? he asked.

I don't know, answered Lord Carson. Lord Dangar discovered an ancient recipe. I have tried to learn the contents of the recipe, but Lord Dangar refuses to share it. Can't say that I blame him. You should keep that vial safe and only use it when you need it. As I said, it is very expensive.

The prince immediately opened the vial and drank the contents. His eyes grew large and his body shuddered as raw energy raced through his bloodstream. He gasped and stared at the foreigner.

What is this stuff? the prince asked. I feel as if I could break a hole in a stone wall. How long will it last?

The lord sighed and shook his head. Only a day, he answered. You've wasted something very precious.

The prince slammed his fist on the table, and the wood cracked and splintered. The two men at the other end of the room turned and stared at the prince, wondering what had caused the thunder-like sound. Prince Blorith had his back to the men, and Lord Carson ignored their questioning eyes.

I didn't believe you, retorted the prince. I feel invincible. It's such an exhilarating feeling coursing through my body. I have never felt so good before. You must get me more of it. I will pay whatever it costs.

It is not just a matter of cost, frowned the foreigner. Lord Dangar can only make so much of it. I think some of the ingredients are hard to find. He might not have any available at this time.

Take me to Lord Dangar now, demanded the prince. I must speak with him.

That will have to wait until tomorrow, Lord Carson replied calmly. He is not in the city tonight.

Then we will go tomorrow, vowed the prince. Right now I feel the need to go out and test my new powers. You will meet me here for the midday meal tomorrow. Do not be late.

Lord Carson raised an eyebrow as the prince rose and left the tavern. The prince's parting words carried no hint of a request. It had been a threat, and Lord Carson was sure that there would be a price to pay if he ignored the prince.

* * *

Kyzara was the headmaster of Lantana's enforcer academy. He was a large man with bulging muscles and an intimidating gaze that threatened bodily harm to anyone who crossed him. He stood in the center of the practice yard watching the three disgraced enforcers maneuver through the obstacle course. It was a course set up for academy recruits, and the enforcers had no difficulty maneuvering through it. Kyzara hadn't expected any of them to have troubles with it. He had assigned it to them as a way of humiliating them. In fact, the three enforcers had spent the last week going through all of the procedures demanded of graduating recruits. It was his way of driving home the fact that the disgraced enforcers were no better than any other rookie just graduating the academy. As the enforcers finished the obstacle course, they ran towards Kyzara and stood at attention before him, waiting for their instructor to speak. Kyzara glared at the three enforcers for a while before he spoke, his glare displaying his feelings of disappointment.

The three of you have disgraced yourselves and the academy, Kyzara eventually said. You violated the vow by entering Kor unbidden. You attempted to assassinate a noble of Kor. Worse, in my eyes, you failed in your attempt. I cannot think of a more disgraceful failure for an enforcer.

Kyzara looked each of the enforcers in the eyes, taunting them to break eye contact so that he could berate them some more, but each of the enforcers stood his ground and met his gaze.

Kyzara continued, By the grace of the Supreme Council, you are to be given another chance, although I don't understand why. Your status has been reduced to that of a recent graduate of this academy. Any accomplishments that you were credited with are no longer applicable. Your slate is clean. In addition, each of you has been placed on probation. That probation will last until you have proven yourselves once again. Am I understood?

What do we have to do to get the probation removed? asked Red.

Get results, answered Kyzara. Go back to Amica and perform as an enforcer should perform.

But we have received no orders, frowned Gerhart. What is the task that is required of us?

Orders? scoffed Kyzara. Has it been that long since you graduated the academy the first time? You are rookies! You will not be entrusted with special orders from the Supreme Council. There are scores of criminals in Amica who are at large. Go find them and drag them to the appropriate authorities. Each Dock Master maintains a list of criminals wanted by the various governments of Amica. Go find them and arrest them. Do you think you can handle that, or am I asking too much of you?

We can do it, Sigmore replied quickly. The three of us will round up every criminal in Amica.

Not the three of you, retorted Kyzara. You are not to work together. I don't know which of you mental midgets was the ringleader in Kor, but I will not risk another disgrace for this academy. Each of you will pick a different region of Amica. You are to work alone.

Kyzara glared at the enforcers for a long time, hoping that one of them would give him cause to revoke their graduation, but all of them stood at attention waiting to be dismissed. With a sigh of resignation, he shook his head.

That's it, Kyzara proclaimed. You are now officially graduates of the academy. Don't expect any celebration or cheering from anyone because no one is thrilled to see you here, much less seeing you graduate. Discuss it among yourselves and choose your regions. When you are done, come to my office to pick up your enforcer medallions. Dismissed.

Kyzara pivoted and started to walk away, but he halted abruptly and spun back to face the enforcers.

One final word, he said with an ominous tone in his voice. If any of you disgraces this academy again, I will personally break you in two. That is my final warning.

Chapter 2

Garden Party

Taraka rode westward alongside the Leborg River after a visit to the capital of Kettland. Upon seeing the ancient arch near the headwaters, she activated the blue crystal and watched the portal open to the pyramid in the desert. She rode through the portal and into Vanagor, letting the portal close behind her. The thief dismounted and led her horse to the area of the pyramid where Kwang kept the horses. She saw the dwarf near a pile of crates and packs. He appeared to be building something with crudely fashioned pieces of wood.

What are you building? Taraka called out as she got closer.

Kwang looked up and smiled broadly. A table of sorts, he answered. I just want something to keep all of this stuff off the floor.

Taraka chuckled softly as she gazed at the crude construction. You are not a carpenter, she quipped. What is all of this junk?

Mostly clothing, Kwang answered as he returned to fashioning support legs for the table. Nigil and Lassa traveled with a great deal of luggage when they portrayed nobles in Marston. I guess they felt having a lot of luggage added to their portrayal. They dumped all of it here and I don't want it to get wet if the pyramid floods again.

Floods again? echoed Taraka as she started pawing through the clothing. What do you mean again?

Kwang sighed and stood erect, his hands going to his back to ease muscles that were cramped from being bent over so long.

Antioch and I are still exploring all of the portals, the dwarf explained. There is one portal that is partially submerged in water. The first time we opened it, it caught us by surprise. A flood of water came streaming through the portal. If Antioch had not reacted quickly, everything down here would have been underwater.

A portal underwater? pondered the thief. Where is it?

It's supposed to be at the mouth of the Wyland River, answered Kwang, but Antioch thinks it is really somewhere in the Great Swamp. Truth is, we're not really sure where it is. Antioch and Mari are discussing it now. I think someone is going to have to go through the portal and explore the land around it to mark its location.

That would be like swimming upstream, frowned Taraka. How can you go through a portal when the water is streaming into the pyramid?

Antioch blocked it the last time with a physical shield, shrugged Kwang. I suspect that he could lower that shield to the height of the water. If so, then someone should be able to leap over the shield and into the swamp. Just the thought of it gives me an uneasy feeling. The Great Swamp is supposed to be filled with all sorts of deadly critters. I can't imagine someone intentionally stranding themselves there just to find out where they are.

Do we really need another portal? asked the thief. We have plenty of them already.

I agree with you, shrugged Kwang, but Marcus wants to know the location of every single portal. You know that Antioch will indulge him.

I know, Taraka nodded in agreement as she pulled a yellow sleeveless gown out of the luggage and held it up before her. This is absolutely beautiful, she remarked. Why does Lassa get such nice things when she portrays a noble for the first time?

Kwang chuckled. You sound jealous, he said.

I am, laughed Taraka. I have played Lady Tara far more times than I can count, and I never had anything this lovely. I wonder if Lassa would miss it?

I never saw you toying with it, winked the dwarf, but you should ask Marcus about it.

I will when he arrives, Taraka said distractedly. He should be here soon.

He has already come and gone, Kwang said. Py Lim was delivering a couple of catapults to the wizard Rosetta. Marcus, Nigil, and Lassa headed out to Gog to see what she can do with them.

Oh, frowned Taraka. Then I need to contact him and let him know that I have fulfilled my mission.

With the conversation at an end, the dwarf turned and stooped down to continue his work. Taraka moved away from the dwarf and triggered the gem on her necklace. Marcus answered right away.

I am in Vanagor, reported the thief.

How did it go? asked Marcus.

Perfectly as always, smiled Taraka. Every king in the Amican Alliance now has a communications gem, as does every national general. I have delivered the corresponding gems to Pierre Champlain. He wants to meet with you as soon as possible.

What about? asked the Avenging Shadow.

He thinks you need to appoint regional generals, answered Taraka. The national generals would then report directly to the regional generals, and the regional generals would report to you. He also wants a lot more gold.

Marcus sighed. He always wants more gold, complained Marcus. Where does he think I will get it?

I don't think he concerns himself with such things, answered Taraka. He knows that he is pressing you to the limit, Marcus, but he claims that he needs the gold. Maybe you should talk with him directly.

All right, sighed Marcus. I will take care of it. Is there anything else?

There is a Black Watch report that is bothering me, stated Taraka. The Black Watch in Chared Hull reported that Crand was sighted there getting off a Northlands mage ship.

Chared Hull is a transfer point, said Marcus. Crand is probably transitioning to a Midlands mage ship. Tell the Black Watch to keep an eye on the port. I want them to report back and tell you which ship Crand gets on. I want to know where Crand is going.

I already thought of that, frowned Taraka. Two Midlands mage ships have come and gone. Gralik said that Crand didn't get on either one of them.

How long ago was Crand sighted? asked Marcus.

Over a week ago, reported Taraka. Unless he left Chared Hull overland, he is still in Dolmatia. Is there anything there to interest him?

Not that I can think of, Marcus replied after a lengthy pause. I need to dwell on that for a while. Anything else?

That's it, answered the thief.

All right, Marcus said with a tone of finality. I will see you later.

Marcus broke the connection and moved back towards the group standing around the catapults near Rosetta's garden. The old female wizard was loading a cloth-wrapped bladder into the bucket of one of the catapults. Marcus halted alongside Nigil and watched as Rosetta launched the projectile. The bladder soared through the air and struck a low stone wall. The wall immediately burst into flames.

Grab buckets of water and try to douse the flames, ordered Rosetta. Be careful not to stand in the runoff when you pour the water.

Nigil responded swiftly, grabbing a bucket and dipping it in the pond to fill it as he ran by. Lassa mimicked his move a few steps behind him. Marcus hesitated, his mind still pondering the thought of Crand running loose in Dolmatia. He wondered what the rogue mage might be up to.

You, too, Marcus, chided Rosetta. I want you to experience this for yourself.

Marcus snapped out of his thoughts and raced forward, snaring a bucket on the run. By the time he reached the wall, he could see that Nigil's and Lassa's efforts were in vain. Not only was the water ineffective in dousing the fire, it seemed to actually spread the flames. Marcus halted before the fire and tossed the contents of his bucket at the center of the fire. He watched in amazement as droplets of fire shot up in the air as if the water itself was afire.

That is the effect of water on flamoil, declared Rosetta. The water will actually spread the fire, not douse it. That is why I warned you to avoid the runoff. Your boots would burn through before the fire burned out.

What is the purpose of the cloth wrapping the projectile? asked Nigil.

It's just for ease of handling, answered Rosetta. Once the flamoil is mixed, it is extremely volatile. If you were to accidentally pierce the bladder, you would have a catastrophe on your hands. Wrapping it in cloth gives you slight added protection, but truthfully, not much.

If it is so volatile, frowned Nigil, how can we use it effectively in the fortresses? We can't risk having an accident inside the fortresses.

The trick is to not mix the flamor and naphtha until you are about to use it, answered Rosetta.

That doesn't sound very practical, retorted Nigil. How would we store it?

I have been thinking about that, answered Rosetta. I had a tour of the Lake Fortress many years ago. On the rooftop there is a large cistern for water. It is large enough to supply water for many weeks in case of a siege. I think we should build another cistern atop each of the fortresses, except they won't be for water. We will fill them with naphtha and keep them covered. During a siege, the naphtha could be drawn out of the cistern and mixed with flamor as it is needed. All you would need to do is to make sure that there is a ready supply of bladders to use in the catapults.

Ah, nodded Nigil. You have thought this through. What other tricks do you have to show us?

Rosetta was grinning at the compliment, but her smile faded as she noticed Marcus silently staring at the ground as if he had not heard a word spoken.

You are far away, she said loudly to Marcus as she walked up to him. Should we end the session for today? You are all welcome to spend the night and start anew in the morning. Would that be better?

Marcus shook his head to clear his thoughts as he realized that the words were directed at him. I'm sorry, he apologized. I have something that I need to take care of immediately. Let me do that and then I will give you my undivided attention.

Marcus turned and walked a short distance away from the others. He touched his necklace and called Mari's name.

* * *

Antioch held a physical shield across the face of the open portal. Beyond that invisible shield he could see a swamp. Mari had been alongside him until Marcus had called her. She stepped away for a short conversation and then returned to the historian's side.

Sorry, she said. It was Marcus.

At that moment, Taraka came strolling along. She stared at the open portal and the wall of water over a pace high that some invisible shield was holding back.

I hope it was nothing important, commented Antioch. We have work to do here. I have lowered my shield to a level just a tad higher than the water behind it. You should be able to dive over the shield and into the swamp. From there, you will have to determine the exact location of the arch. I don't think it would be practical for you to return the same way, so you might have a long journey on the other end to get back here.

The Swamp will have to wait, Mari replied. Marcus wants me to go to Chared Hull. He thinks Crand is there.

What? balked the archivist. You can't go to Chared Hull. Did you not tell Marcus about your run-in with Prince Blorith?

I can handle the evil prince, shrugged Mari as she noticed the thief behind her. Maybe Taraka can dive into the swamp for you.

Antioch is right, stated Taraka. Not only will you need to hide from Prince Blorith, but Crand also knows what you look like. You are not the one to be going to Chared Hull.

Marcus ordered it, retorted the enforcer.

Maybe so, chuckled the thief, but I am not diving into a swamp for you. I will take my chances in Chared Hull. Besides, I have local contacts in Chared Hull. I will contact them and have them ready to show me around the town.

Maybe those contacts can locate Crand on their own, suggested Antioch.

Taraka shook her head. They are the ones who reported Crand's arrival in Chared Hull. They have lost him. I know because I just contacted them again. They have looked everywhere for him.

Perhaps he left the city? suggested Mari.

Not by ship, replied Taraka. He might have left overland, but he still might be in the city. My contacts are working class individuals, and Crand is known to portray a noble. They would travel in different circles.

How will you find him then? asked Antioch. Will you portray a noble?

Lady Tara rides again, grinned Taraka. My contacts tell me that there is a garden party tomorrow, and I have already picked out the perfect dress for it.

You had this planned? asked Mari.

Taraka nodded. I am the one who alerted Marcus of the problem, she said. I expected him to order me to go. I don't know why he thought of you instead.

Maybe Marcus has something else in mind for you, Antioch said.

Perhaps, shrugged Taraka, but I will only be gone for less than a day. I will leave after dark tonight and return tomorrow night.

Beware the evil prince, warned Mari. He is easily ruffled, and he has a gang of thugs that will do anything for him.

I can handle that, grinned Taraka. I will leave the swamp to you.

Delighted at the prospect of a garden party, Taraka pranced back towards Kwang and the waiting yellow gown. As she made her way through the lowest level of the pyramid, she activated the gem that connected her with Gralik, the leader of the Black Watch in Chared Hull.

* * *

Dawn was still two hours away when Taraka rode into Chared Hull from the south. The streets were deserted, the taverns having closed hours ago. She made her way to the Landings Inn, the posh inn that Mari had shared with her some time ago. When she arrived at the stables, Gralik stepped out of the darkness to greet her.

Right on time, smiled the Black Watch leader. I will guide you to your room. I have already requested a tub brought up early in the morning, and my sister will be over after the morning meal to help you prepare for the garden party. Is there anything else you need from me?

Will I need an invitation to get into the party? asked Taraka as she dismounted and stabled her horse.

That won't be necessary, answered Gralik. Things up here are not as structured as other places. As long as you dress the part, no one will question you. The garden is on the grounds of the castle, but the gates will be open all day tomorrow. You can walk right onto the grounds. If you require entry into the castle, that might be another story.

The gardens should be enough, replied Taraka. If Crand is posing as a foreign noble in Chared Hull, the women of the city will surely be gossiping about him. If you would, have your sister pick up some underclothes for me on the way to the inn. I will repay her. Thank you for your help, Gralik.

The man merely nodded and then led the way into the inn and up to the room he had reserved for Lady Tara. Once in the room, Taraka rested lightly as she waited for the coming dawn. With the arrival of dawn, a loud knocking on the door announced the arrival of a tub. When the tub had been filled and the servants departed, Taraka laid out the yellow gown and then stripped down, filling her pack with poisonous darts, knives, arm sheaths, and gem-studded bracers. Finally, she removed her magical underclothes that had been made from the magical cloth found in Taragor. When she was done, she truly felt naked for the first time in a long time. She climbed into the tub and refreshed herself in the warm water.

After a bath, Taraka ordered a morning meal brought up to the room. She had barely finished it when Gralik's sister arrived to help her get ready for the party. When the woman was done with her, she smiled in satisfaction. Taraka stared at herself in the mirror, and a wide smile spread across her face. She felt truly noble, but she also felt defenseless. She had no magical underclothes, no weapons, and no gems except for the necklace that connected her to Marcus. Rationalizing that she would only be at the party for a couple of hours, the thief exited the inn and made her way to Chared Hull Castle.

It was almost midday when Taraka arrived at the garden party. As Gralik had promised, she had no trouble getting onto the grounds of the castle and into the gardens. Nobles roamed around the gardens. Most of the nobles present were women, but there were also a handful of men. They mostly hung around the tables of food and drink, talking among themselves. Taraka looked around for a place to start her subtle interrogation, eventually choosing a rather large group of women congregating near one of the fountains. At first she merely stood and listened to the conversations. Eventually, one of the women noticed a new face in the crowd and introductions were made. Before long, the women were discussing potential suitors for Lady Tara, and that topic opened the opportunity to ask about newly arrived foreign lords. She discovered that there were at least three gentlemen who had recently settled down in Chared Hull, and Taraka subtly began prying whatever information she could out of the women until one of the women took exception to the prying. Taraka smiled and murmured an apology, slipping away from the group.

Armed with her purloined information, Taraka chose another large group of women. She repeated the process, but she was now prepared to ask questions that would further her knowledge of the three men. She found out that of the three men, only one of them had requested a permanent domicile in Dolmatia so far, although the other two had rented houses, indicating more than a transient interest in Chared Hull. Again, one of the women became too curious about Lady Tara, and Taraka found an excuse to move on.

For the next two hours, the thief made her way from group to group, always turning the conversation to the three foreign nobles. Unbeknownst to Taraka, a pair of eyes were following her every move. A redheaded woman dressed in maroon leathers leaned against the castle as she watched the nobles in the garden. The woman carried a two-handed sword on her back, and the nobles who passed by her gave her a wide berth. Some even mumbled softly with distaste at the garb of the armed woman, but only one woman complained to the castle guards. Two soldiers approached the armed woman and confronted her, but the enforcer very casually showed her medallion. The soldiers retreated and left the enforcer to observe the party. After the soldiers had retreated, Red pulled a piece of paper out from her tunic and once again studied the drawing. There was no doubt in her mind that she had found Lady Tara, wanted for fraud and robbery in Byakastan. Still, the enforcer was in no hurry. She watched the criminal make the rounds of the party, wondering what scam the woman was planning. As the garden party began to wind down, Red moved closer to the castle gates and waited for the woman to leave. While she waited, she explained her mission to the gate guards so that they wouldn't inadvertently intervene in the arrest. She even talked them into helping with the arrest. As Lady Tara left the gardens, Red merged with the shadows near the gatehouse. As Taraka approached the gates, one of the guards stepped in front of her.

Are you Lady Tara? asked the guard.

I am, Taraka answered, wondering if one of the women had complained about her asking too many questions.

Lady Tara of Arad? asked the guard.

Taraka felt a feeling of apprehension race through her body. She knew that something was not right, but she nodded affirmatively.

You are under arrest, Red said as she came up behind Taraka.

Before Taraka could respond, Red had her hands pulled behind her back, and the thief could feel a cord being wrapped around them.

What I have I done? asked Taraka. I have only attended a party.

You are wanted for fraud and robbery in Clandor Kye, declared the enforcer.

You are mistaken, Taraka replied. I have never been to the Northlands. Perhaps someone used my name.

Red pulled out the drawing and held it before Taraka's face. There is no mistake, Red said. Come along quietly, and I will treat you well. Try to run or resist, and I will cut you down.

Chapter 3

Green Crystal

The sun was just rising when the portal to Gog opened. Marcus, Nigil, and Lassa rode into the pyramid, the portal dissipating behind them. Antioch, Mari, and Kwang rushed from across the cavernous room to greet them. The sense of urgency in the air immediately warned the Avenging Shadow of impending doom, and he dismounted warily. A glance at his three followers spoke volumes. Their faces were long, haggard expressions marring each of them.

What is the problem? Marcus asked.

Problem? echoed Antioch. We're just glad to see you. How did things go in Gog?

Marcus ignored the archivist knowing that Antioch would try to protect the Avenging Shadow from any harm, even the mental stress of a catastrophe in the making. Instead, he focused his attention on the enforcer, wondering why she was even present in the pyramid.

You are not in Chared Hull, he said to Mari. Have you located Crand already?

I didn't go to Chared Hull, confessed Mari. Taraka went in my place.

It wasn't safe for Mari to be seen in Chared Hull, Antioch said quickly. She had a run-in with Prince Blorith, and Crand knows what she looks like. Taraka volunteered to go so that Mari could help me investigate the portal in the Great Swamp.

Marcus glanced around for Taraka and noted her absence. A shiver of fear raced up his spine.

Where is Taraka? he asked, his voice cold and demanding.

She hasn't returned from Chared Hull, declared Mari. She was due back before sunrise, but we haven't heard a word from her.

Marcus immediately touched the gem that connected him with the thief. He called her name repeatedly, but Taraka didn't respond. Marcus grabbed the reins to his horse and started walking across the room towards the portal to Chared Hull.

You can't use the portal during daylight, Antioch warned as he raced after the Avenging Shadow. The secrecy of the portals is more important than any of our lives.

He's right, Marcus, pleaded Mari. Taraka would agree with us. In fact, she probably couldn't make it to the portal in time so she is holed up somewhere. She is probably asleep.

Taraka has shown an uncanny ability to take care of herself, added Kwang. Do not underestimate her abilities.

The dwarf's words caused Marcus to halt his march across the room. He turned and glanced at the faces of his friends. He saw nothing but concern for someone they cared a great deal for. It was obvious that they were as worried about Taraka as he was, but they were more concerned about him. They knew that he would react harshly upon hearing the news, and that made Marcus look inwardly at himself. Why was the Avenging Shadow racing into battle? Was it because one of his people was in trouble, or was it more than that? Would he be racing to Chared Hull in broad daylight if it were Mari who had failed to report in? Or Antioch? Or Kwang?

You look tired, Antioch said softly. Why don't you rest a bit? Tonight we will all go to Chared Hull and bring Taraka back.

We haven't had any sleep, commented Lassa. We were up all night with the wizard Rosetta.

We haven't slept, either, interjected Mari. I think Antioch is right. Let's get some sleep and attack this problem in the evening.

I will contact Camy, Marcus said with determination. Perhaps his people might know something.

I already contacted the spymaster, frowned Antioch. None of his people knew anything about Taraka in Chared Hull. He has instructed them to covertly ask around. If they discover anything, he will contact us.

Marcus sighed and nodded. He dropped the reins to his horse and walked away from the group to get some rest. Kwang moved forward and took the reins to all three horses and led them away. The others settled down for a bit of sleep.

Marcus walked to the other end of the room, near the corridor where Taraka had found the Takrit, his desire to be alone driving him away from the others. He settled down on the floor and closed his eyes, but a vision of Taraka appeared in his mind and prevented him from going to sleep. He tried thinking about the upcoming war and strategies to defeat the coming horde, but those distractions couldn't take root for more than an eye blink. He couldn't get the woman out of his mind. Eventually, his mind focused on the priest he had met at the Temple of Arti in the Damblier Mountains on his way to Grim. As the priest's words came back to him, the Avenging Shadow began to pray.

* * *

Marcus stared down at the slain bodies littering the battlefield. He had seen them before. He had been here before. He glanced around and was not surprised to see the long stone wall and the door set into it. He was not surprised when he could not locate Terrus the Liberator or his son, Seth. They had ceased appearing in his dreams. Dreams? Marcus nodded to himself. He was in a dream, and in that dream was the green crystal. Marcus leaped to his feet and walked through the grass to where he knew the green crystal waited. Upon command, the Sword of Articus flew from its sheath to his hand as he approached the spot where he knew the snakes guarded the green crystal. The snakes must have seen him coming. They darted off into the tall grass, abandoning their prize. Marcus stared down at the crystal in the grass. It called to him. He reached down and snared it with his free hand, a feeling of exhilaration coursing through his body.

Marcus straightened up, and his faced frowned in confusion. He was no longer on the battlefield. He was in the lowest level of the Vanagor pyramid, not just anywhere in the pyramid, but specifically in the corridor where Taraka had found the Takrit. A short ways before him stood the dead end of the corridor where an arch was etched into the stone. The corridor was dark without a torch or mage light, but the green crystal suddenly began to blink, its blink casting ghostly green light upon the walls. The crystal blinked three times, then twice more. With a final blink, the center of the archway dissolved. Marcus stared into a bright blue sky, small puffy clouds hanging lazily over a stone promontory that stretched away from him. Marcus inhaled deeply and sheathed the Sword of Articus. He marched through the portal.

The stone promontory was narrow and ran for thirty paces before suddenly halting. Marcus walked out to the edge and stared down. Spread out below him was a beautiful lush valley with a winding river flowing through it. The river flowed through a gleaming city, but Marcus was so high above the city that he could not make out the individual buildings. What he could see though was that in the center of the large city sat one very large building. It seemed to be the focus of everything. He wondered what it might be.

While Marcus was engrossed in gazing at the city, he felt someone staring at him. He whirled around to find a large wolf sitting a few paces away from him. He instinctively called for the Sword of Articus, but the sword ignored his calling. He frowned in confusion, but his initial feeling of fear rapidly diminished. He stared intently at the wolf, but the creature merely stared back. Marcus's eyes rose from the wolf and examined the promontory back towards the arch. The arch spanned the entire promontory, leaving no room for the animal to have gotten around it, and the portal was closed. He wondered where the wolf had come from. After a while, Marcus began to feel comfortable with the wolf's presence. The animal showed no signs of hostility. If anything, it merely appeared curious. Remembering that he was in a dream, Marcus turned his back to the animal and returned his gaze upon the valley below. His eyes took in the entire length of the valley and eventually returned to the large structure in the center of the city.

What is it? he murmured.

It is the Temple of Arti, came a voice from behind Marcus.

Marcus whirled around again to gaze upon the talking wolf, but the animal was gone. In its place stood an old man. The man was a little on the short side, but not overly so. The top of his head was bald, and the hair that was left was gray.

Where did you come from? asked Marcus. Who are you?

So many questions, smiled the man. I am a priest of Arti. You may call me Artisan. Why are you here?

Marcus frowned at the question. This is my dream, he replied. Why shouldn't I be in my own dream? Why are you here? What am I to learn from you?

A dream? smiled Artisan. Is that so?

The priest walked forward until he was alongside Marcus. With his hands, he bid Marcus to turn and look at the city. Marcus complied.

You wondered about the large building that is the focus of the city below, Artisan said. It is the Temple of Arti, and the good people of the city worship him. As he is the focus of their lives, so too is his temple the focus of their city.

What city is that? asked Marcus. I have never seen it before.

That city is not of your world, answered Artisan. Your world has forsaken Arti. Your temples are abandoned and crumble to dust. You choose to wage war upon one another rather than help your brother to achieve all that he is capable of. You are a greedy lot that thinks of nothing but themselves.

That is not true, balked Marcus. There are many good people in my world. They are willing to lay down their lives so that others may live. Do not disparage them for things that are beyond their control. Everyday more people are turning to Arti for help.

Everyone looks to god for help, rebuked Artisan, but true worship is thinking of god when all is well. Your people have had no war for over four hundred years. Why have they abandoned the temples?

Marcus had no answer for the priest's question. He sighed deeply and nodded in recognition of the truth. He turned away from