Jared's Song - the Second Verse

By Mike Ginns

Jared, moving slowly,
touched the liquid, a mouth formed
What is wrong, Great king?
Jared explained his wound, I think
there may be something wrong still, my friend.
I need your special skill to investigate,
Jared said. You honour me greatly, My King.
Please dip your finger into the cup and leave it there.
I will explain to your Healer as I work. Jared did so.
Now, as part of me travels to the site of the wound through
his blood system, I will try to explain. What you see in the
goblet is not liquid, though it appears to be.
It is millions upon millions of extremely small units.

• Language: English
• Publisher: AuthorHouse UK
• Release date: May 31, 2012
• ISBN: 9781467896481

Mike Ginns

Returning from his adventure in America  Mike re-settled in his old familiar surroundings in Mitcham England, the following quickly passing years have been filled with the music of Jared’s Song. Mike has always been very imaginative, creating works both in paint and words, both professionally and to express himself. This book series is his masterpiece an amazing original story. Somewhat reclusive and reserved, Mike writes and creates his artwork exclusively on the computer, he projects the characters of his books into life before our eyes on the covers of his Jared’s Song series, wonderfully not someone else’s interpretation of the characters in his books but  exactly how the author himself sees them.

Book preview

Jared’s Song

TheSecond Verse

Mike Ginns

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© 2012 Mike Ginns. All rights reserved.

No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted by any means without the written permission of the author.

Published by AuthorHouse 5/25/2012

ISBN: 978-1-4678-9647-4 (sc)

ISBN: 978-1-4678-9648-1 (e)

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and such images are being used for illustrative purposes only.

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Because of the dynamic nature of the Internet, any web addresses or links contained in this book may have changed since publication and may no longer be valid. The views expressed in this work are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher, and the publisher hereby disclaims any responsibility for them.

I dedicate this book

The Second Verse of Jared’s Song

To

My long standing friend and fellow artist.

Bridget.

He stood on the gravel path and used a hoe carefully around the base of the tall plants, breaking up the harder surface and using the clever little fork attachment on the back to rake out any sneaky weeds. Apart from the general dull ache in his lower back, he didn’t have any worries, and just thought of whatever came to mind. Occasionally he’d look up and rest for a while, leaning on his hoe while he gazed about at the others working in the beautiful flower gardens, or the occasional visitors and people walking past. These days there were more young people coming here to just walk slowly around, often couples, hand in hand, which made him smile. Or they’d sit on the old stone benches and talk softly together, all dressed in their finery. The addition of the statues was a fine idea, and he was pleased that a school of sculpture was now established in the city. He bent over, creaking a bit to gather up the drying weeds and misplaced stones he’d removed and put them in his barrow, then stood, stretching his aching back. He put the hoe into the barrow and picked up the handles to begin to wheel it along the path, heading to the far end of the gardens, where the gardener’s sheds were. Having cleaned the hoe and hung it up, he wandered out across the paved area to lean on the waist high wall and look out over the pale sandy beach and the calm blue ocean beyond. Down on the beach, a small figure of a boy dressed in nothing but short trews and skin toasted by the sun ran and played in the surf, watched by the dark figure of a wyvern lounging higher on the beach.

I thought I’d find you here. Came a soft female voice from behind him, and he turned, smiling to the tall slim young woman. I was just resting a while. He said. She smiled, and stood beside him, her arm around his as she too looked down. He made a show of looking around behind him, What? No herds of Princes trailing forlornly behind you? he asked. She grinned, not looking at him, I gave them the slip in the great hall, and escaped using the servant’s door. She said lightly, and he nodded. She glanced at him, Your back still bothering you? he nodded, Occasionally. He said. From below came a shout and the boy had seen them and was waving, so both waved back to him. Where does he get all that energy from? It must be from your side of the family. He said, and she laughed. I seem to remember that you used to run everywhere, Druna. He said, and she nodded, Then that confirms it. He said, and laughed. Come on, Father. I was sent to get you for lunch. She said.

He entered the dining room, and bent to hug and kiss Alisha, About time too. She said, laughing. He sat beside her as Druna sat opposite them. I suppose it’s too much to expect your brother to join us? Alisha asked Druna, who nodded. Alisha sighed, I swear he exists on fresh air and sand. She said. Perhaps he eats what he finds along the shore. Druna said, selecting things to put on her plate. Oh, that is disgusting! Alisha said, and Druna grinned. Ahah! Eating in secret? Maggie said as she limped into the room. I did send out the general call, dear. Alisha said, and Maggie settled herself on a bench. I know, it just takes time to get from my room to here, Alisha. Maggie said grinning. Oh, I forgot, I’m sorry Maggie. Alisha looked woeful. Don’t worry, dear, I forgot too this morning and tried to leap out of bed. Maggie said. Oh, so that was the cry I heard. Jared said, and Maggie muttered, nodding, then she sighed. At least I must be grateful we now have these wonderful Healers that can heal like that. Before I would never have been able to walk again. She said. Druna looked to her, I bet you had a few words to say to the horse. She said grinning. Oh yes! She did not escape! Not when I can talk inside her mind! Maggie said. She was trying to show off in front of that new stallion and cut too close to that iron stanchion, at a full gallop too! I don’t think I will ever forget that pain. She said, looking at her empty plate. Worse than when Sidan stepped on your foot? Jared asked. Maggie chuckled, Not at the time, no. Oh, he was so terribly upset. I have never seen a horse standing shivering in remorse before, but he did so. He’s just so intelligent, I swear he’s really a man in the horse’s skin, and a gentle man at that. Maggie began to load her plate. And how is master Ivak these days? Alisha asked Jared. Jared shook his head, Got women trouble. He said. Alisha frowned, Dear husband, being married does not count as ‘woman trouble’. Just because you may not like everything she does… Huh! Jared said, Every time I go there, the damned woman is almost crawling around on her knees! I’ve told her I dislike the formal titles yet she insists on calling me ‘Your Majesty’! And she keeps calling Ivak Sir Ivak until he starts blushing! Jared muttered and grumbled as Druna and Maggie covered their mouths to hide their grins. Oh dear. Alisha said, Perhaps I had better go and have a quiet word with her.

Jared, after lunch, went to bed for a snooze in the hottest part of the day. He woke up about an hour later and found he had his son sleeping against his side. He lay looking at the ten year old Elrek, smiling. This was indeed a miracle, conceived two days after the end of the Dark One. He was a sleek and lithe child, mousey haired with brown eyes and a head full of questions and a body full of endless energy. He was tutored by the liquid being who taught him through ancient history the values of honour, courage and justice. Jared swore his son was far more intelligent than he ever was, and had been born ‘aware’. He smiled softly as he stroked the soft hair, and put his scarred arms around his son, wishing he could protect him from all that might threaten him.

Alisha slipped quietly into the chamber and sat on the side of the bed, smiling down at the two of them, and Jared opened his eyes to look up at her. Skarth told me he was here, with you. She said softly, and Jared smiled. She lightly stroked the sun-browned slender back of her child. Thank you for this most wondrous gift, Jared. She said in a whisper. He smiled, reaching to hold her hand, Thank you, sweet Alisha. He whispered. Slowly he moved from the bed, his young son sleeping with the intensity only children can. They stood and held each other for a time lost in their love.

In the mid afternoon, Jared travelled to the New Kingdom, arriving on the wide stone disc set aside for such things. He walked from it to stand smiling as he looked about him, waving and nodding at the people. The towers were the same, but now they glowed with fresh painted colours. The outer ring soft pastel shades, the inner ring a little brighter, and the central tower a brilliant golden yellow of the sun. Roads were marked out by borders of dark rocks and beyond that was grass and trees, still young. About the base of each tower were flowerbeds with blossoms picked to match the hue of each tower. He turned, looking out from the city to see green fields stretching away. Jared! A shout made him turn and he laughed, walking towards the royal couple, Algan and his queen, Jilea. Both came to him and hugged him. He stood back, looking at them dressed in light clothing. You both look well and happy. It seems bonding agrees with you. I am so happy for you both! he said. Jilea, his sister blushed and grinned, and Algan laughed. Well, our kingdoms were joined, Brother, just not how we expected. Algan said, smiling. Jared nodded, and spread his arms, You have done wonders! Both of you! This is a beautiful place! Every time I visit, it grows more beautiful. They linked arms with him, and walked with him towards the central tower, Well, much to my surprise, I found I too enjoy your pastime of messing about with flowers, it allows me to think. Algan said. And what of you, Sister? Jared asked Jilea. She smiled, looking down, Oh, I have found new interests in people. She looked up, pointing to the towers, One is now a school, another a place of knowledge where all come to write things down. We have a tower for healers, another for warriors. One is for farmers and those of the land, and all are connected by bridges. One is for art and music. She blushed, and Jared smiled to her, You are indeed carrying forth our family traditions in the finest way, Sister, our parents would be most proud of you.

He sat at a large beautifully carved wooden table to eat an informal snack. It was in the central tower on the third floor, the sunlight causing the patterns on the floor to glow beautifully. Other people sat at other tables to eat and talk. One other thing we took from you, Jared. One tower is dedicated to exploration. We begin to make maps of the land. We have young men travelling outwards who explore and make notes of what they find. Algan told him. Jared nodded, That is a good thing to do. Our past ignorance of the land about us nearly doomed us, it should not happen again. He talked to them until it was time for him to travel back to Alisha.

He lay beside her, their hands entwined. You do know that you are now probably the most powerful King in this part of the world, husband? She said softly. Jared blinked, and turned his head to look at her. Who, me? he asked. She smiled and nodded. He frowned, I don’t think so. I am still only King of Landersill. He said. Um, and High Country. They still don’t want to return to independence. And I believe that the majority of the horse clans look to you as their leader. He shrugged, Even so, dear wife, the New Kingdom is equal to all these in size. She grinned, I know the Dren bow to you. She said, and he sort of nodded. And I think that even Algan would kneel to you. She said. He sighed, I would never ask that of him. he said. I know, but you know he would. Jared slowly nodded, Perhaps. He said, but why this sudden interest in power, sweetest of all queens? she laughed softly, None at all, kindest of all kings. I just thought you should think upon it, once in a while. You are no longer alone, and your achievements stretch out around you for all to see. He smiled to her, My greatest achievement lays beside me now. He whispered.

He woke in the early hours once again, and although tired, was unable to return to sleep. He rose silently and dressed, creeping from the chamber with his boots and cloak in his hand, to put them on as he stood in the passage outside. He wandered along it and down to the now silent large kitchens, to find a cut of meat and made himself a large thick sandwich. Once he would have tried to sneak out, but that only led to trouble, so Jared walked to a side gate and talked to the night guard, borrowing the man’s long dagger as he walked out into his city. He never knew how many followed him, now that his personal guards had been taught the secret of travelling, but they respected his need for privacy, and he’d only see them if there was trouble.

He secretly enjoyed walking the city at night, the air cool and fresh, with just the lamps at street intersections to light the way. Now the rents had been adjusted, and people were treated fairly, they took a pride in the city, and the streets were clean, with window coverings of bright coloured cloth. He walked with his hands held behind his back, thinking odd thoughts, occasionally pausing to look at things. Sometimes he read notices tacked up, items for sale or events for people. He didn’t walk fast, but he covered quite an area, always trying to visit parts he hadn’t been to for a time. Sometimes he saw people and would nod to them, sometimes it would be a City Guard, other times a worker or perhaps another who could not sleep. Once or twice he met a woman on her way back from a customer, and there would be some friendly banter, and he had received several invitations from them, but politely refused. He wasn’t spying on his people – it was more of a curiosity of them and how they lived. He liked to see the sunrise as he sat in the large central park, watching as the people slowly woke and went about their business. Then he would return to the Palace and return the dagger and climb the stairs to sit in the dining room, or perhaps on the balcony outside until people woke.

Because he could, he often travelled far and wide, and was often told off for not telling anyone where he was going, but he always forgot. Sometimes his son or daughter came with him, but mostly he travelled by himself. That day he travelled after breakfast to stand in a lane amid tall green-cropped fields. The lane was no more than short-cropped grass and wheel ruts, with no sign of fences, though a drainage ditch ran dry down the side of the lane. Smiling to himself and with his hands behind his back, Jared walked down the lane, happy and contented. Occasionally between the grass on the lane there were underlying patches of darker sandy earth, but the tough grass had spread fast and well. He came to two narrower tracks leading off left and right, and chose, by random, the left, walking along it to see the more common thorny crop. Then he came to a cleared area with a sloped hole leading down into the dark ground. Behind it stood a cart on small wheels and empty boxes waiting crops to be harvested. He looked around but saw no one and so just stood for a while thinking. Then from a path in the crops came a creature that was not a man, with six limbs. It saw Jared turned to him its upper stubby limbs raised and held curved forwards. Jared laughed and walked forwards, his arms raised the same, to join with the creature in a form of hug, and communicate with the most honoured Dren.

Although they had been made for the great war as ‘constructs’, they had served so well and valiantly, that afterwards, Jared had given them this land, and begged their maker for some further adjustment to them. That adjustment had been the ability to breed. Though mute in the accepted sense, the Dren were like a hive mind, intelligent and willing to learn. They communicated through touch and Jared, before the great battle had ‘shared’ with them – to be one with them, and they one with him. This one was one of the originals, his shell scarred by sword cuts. As it and Jared stood bonding, so, shyly, smaller ones came from the underground nest to cluster around, touching their parent and so ‘knew’ this human. So Jared learned that the land blossomed, what was once the Broken Land, seared of all life, was once more full of life. Not only did the Dren grow their own food, but grew crops to export to Landersill and the New Kingdom for fodder and other coarse plant material. In exchange, they received learning and idea’s which is what they wanted. Now, slowly, they were once again increasing their numbers. He also learned that one of their most frequent visitors was his sister, Jilea, who had spent most of her life with them when they were preparing for the great battle, and who now they held as the Mother of their race. Jared stayed there, sitting on the ground to communicate with the shy young, taking great delight in the task to tell them of the great battle of the Canyon from his point of view. Then he stood, and bowed to them and their parent, and left.

He sat in his garden and looked at the statue of the Dren that had been erected there, and remembered that battle. Although it was a terrible thing, he felt it should not be forgotten. He became aware of a well-dressed young couple who had walked into this part of the garden and were looking at him as he sat in his worn old trews, boots and shirt. He smiled to them. Would you mind if we sat here? the young man asked, indicating an empty bench. Please do, the gardens are open to all. He said. They sat, hands held, and the girl glanced up at the statue. Bren, this statue is different to all the others. She said, frowning. The young man looked up at it. Yes, I have seen it before. I believe it is of a race that helped in the great battle, though I am not sure where. It is an ugly thing. The girl said. Jared sighed, and made a mental note. It is a Dren they fought at the canyons in what was called the Wall of War. He said, looking up at the Dren. The young man looked across to him, You were there? An archer? Jared chuckled, No, I am not an archer but yes, I was there. The Dren lost half their number, five thousand, but took one hundred thousand of the enemy. It was an astounding battle. He said softly. The girl looked at him, Only archers were there. I think you tell tales. She said. Jared looked at her, Only archers? he asked. She flushed, Well, and Commanders, but you do not have the look of a Commander. Jared chuckled, and looked down at himself, brushing at his dusty trews, Of that, you are correct I do not have that look. He said, grinning. The young man looked around, Alea, is that not Princess Druna over there? They say that sometimes the King sits here, she seems to be looking for someone. Jared smiled, already aware. The girl, excited now, grasped her young man’s arm, She is coming this way! Druna, looking fine in her long slim gown of dark velvet green, her long brown hair hung in a long braid down her slim back walked down the main path, her hands held together before her, then she turned down the path leading to the benches. The young couple stood, the girl curtsying, the boy bowing to Druna, who dipped her head to them, Please, sit and enjoy the garden. She said, and turned to look at Jared. So, you are here again. She said to him, and Jared looked down, nodding, I am. Look at the state of you! Can you guess what your wife would say if she saw you sitting there like that? Druna asked, straight faced. Jared looked up at her, Oh, I think I can imagine. He said. And I suppose you’ve been telling tales again? She asked, glancing to the young couple, the girl nodding. Druna sighed, What did he say? the girl said, He said he was at the Canyons, but not an archer. Druna frowned, Well, he is an archer, of sorts, though he wasn’t that day. Please Mam, he does not look like a Commander. The girl said. Druna nodded, He was not a Commander. She looked down on Jared, her eyes twinkling, and he smiled to her. He was ‘The Commander’. Druna said. The girl blinked and frowned in puzzlement, her young man, quicker than his partner, was becoming pale faced. Druna held out her hand to Jared, Shall we walk a while, Father? She asked. Jared stood, taking Druna’s hand and they turned, to find the young couple kneeling with heads bowed. I am going to put up a large sign above every entrance to these gardens. Kneeling before the King is punishable by dire consequences! Jared growled. The young man looked up in confusion. I’d stand up, if I were you. Druna said. The young man stood up, then pulled his partner up. Jared pointed to the Palace, That is my house. This is my garden. While here, you do not kneel, curtsey, or bow to anyone. Neither do you ever say ‘Your Majesty’. Sire or Mam will do. No titles either. Understood? he asked, and both young people nodded. Good. Next point; All that helped us in the Great war were allies, especially the Dren. They may look different; I personally do not see them as ugly. Oh, and you were wrong, young lady, there were also wyverns at the canyons. If it had not been for the Dren, you might not be here, nor I. Now, enjoy yourselves, and if I do not see you here again, I will be most upset. Druna grinned and she and Jared walked passed the young couple and towards the sea wall.

You are quite incorrigible, Father. Druna said, and Jared chuckled. I’m getting old; I have to get my amusement where I can. He said. I do not know what is wrong with the younger generation these days. He said. He steered her to the right, having seen the Armoury doors open and Jilea standing outside looking at a bright new hand-and-a-half. Oh no; you will, of course, wear some protection, this time? Druna asked. He looked at her, Why? he asked, grinning. Brother! Just the person I need to test this new sword of Ivak’s. Jilea called. Druna released his hand and walked to stand to one side.

Jared found himself a matching sword that he liked the balance and grip of, and Jilea let him exercise with it for a few moments. Already people were beginning to gather, and some wyverns flying to perch on the Armoury roof. Druna noticed the young couple standing well to one side and walked over to bring them closer, causing the girl to blush a little. You use a sword? Druna asked the young man, who nodded, I try. He said shyly. Bren takes lessons from a master. The girl said, proudly, and then asked shyly, Is that Princess Jilea? Druna chuckled, It is. She dresses like a man. The girl said, unsure. Druna just smiled. Oh look, Bren, the Guard! Several of the King’s Personal Guard, in their blued armour came to watch.

Come on, old man! Jilea said. Jared muttered and walked to Druna, She’s feisty this day. He said, giving his sword to the young man and stripping off his shirt to drop it on the ground. He took his sword back, and walked towards Jilea, swinging the sword around in one hand, Come on then, girl. Jilea laughed, both crouching. Jared tapped the tip of his sword to that of Jilea’s and she laughed, pulling back from him, then coming at him swinging her sword in wide double-sided circles. He backed from her, watching the rhythm of her sword then crouched low, thrusting his sword up at a slight angle towards her and the two swords clanged together loudly, Jilea half turning as the result. Jared pulled back, rising up to swing around as her slash at him missed his back by inches, and she ducked as his sword skimmed over the top of her head. They stepped back, panting a little, both grinning. They came together in a flurry of fast and wicked blows, each parrying the other so that sparks flew about them, until Jared was tripped and fell on his back, only to roll back fast to avoid a downward slash that chipped the paving. He rolled to his feet and shook his head, Oh, so it’s to be like that, is it? he asked, and Jilea laughed. He walked towards her, wary now. Jilea stood still and brought her sword up so the hilt was before her face. No! Druna shouted. Jared stood facing his sister, smiling a little as Jilea began to turn away from him, her sword lowering and extending as her arms straightened as she swung around on her heels. Several of the guards moved forwards as Jared began to swing his sword up towards his left with both hands. As Jilea swung around her sword now fully extended in one of Jared’s classic moves, Jared swung his sword upwards to meet hers, clanging against hers to deflect hers upwards, though the contact shattered his own sword. Jilea was committed, the weight of her swing continuing to pull her around, as Jared grunted as shards of his blade struck him, and he checked his strike, only to reverse it, hammering the pommel of his hilt hard into Jilea’s side, and she folded, her sword released to fly in circles over the heads of the audience and into the door of the Armoury where it hung quivering. As Jilea collapsed, Jared knelt and held his broken sword beneath her jaw. Yield? he shouted. She cried out, Yield! he moved back from her, making several attempts to stand as Jilea curled up on the ground. We need a Healer here! Someone shouted.

Druna ran to Jared as he staggered, and saw that Jilea was coughing bloody froth. Blood trickled down Jared’s left side from small wounds in his face, shoulder, arm and chest where some shards of his sword still jutted from him. Two Healers appeared and Elesta, who came to Jared. Jared waved her to Jilea, and walked to pick his shirt up, using it to dab at his wounds. See? he said to the shocked young couple, Free entertainment. He said, and laughed. He turned to Druna, Don’t fuss, Daughter. He plucked a shard of sword out of his shoulder and looked at it, then dropped it. He walked back to watch the Healer’s working on Jilea, who now lay on her back, her brown eyes looking up at him. We talk later. He said to her, and she nodded. Ivak came running up and became quite intense as he wrenched the new sword from the Armoury door, closely inspecting it. Jared wandered over to him, and showed him the shattered blade he held. A glancing blow, you say? Ivak asked, and scratched his head, That shouldn’t have happened. Yet when they hit blade to blade at full swing, nothing happened. Jared said. Most strange. Ivak said, and then looked at Jared, Um, you’re bleeding. Jared grinned, I know. He plucked out another shard and gave it to Ivak, There that was at point of impact. You’ll find other pieces around. He walked back until cornered by Elesta, and stood while she saw to him. I would like to know from you, Elesta, why my sister would suddenly try to kill me. He said. She looked at him and nodded. When the many small wounds had been closed he thanked Elesta and Druna came to him. What did you sense from her? he asked her. Druna frowned, Nothing, that’s why her move shocked me. I sensed absolutely nothing from her. Jared frowned, and he slipped an arm through hers, and they walked to the stairs.

He sat with a new shirt on and clean trews, with Alisha still pacing up and down, already having said her views on the sword fight. She is coming to talk to you? Alisha asked, and Jared shrugged, I said we’d talk, I didn’t say where. Knowing Jilea, she will be reluctant to come here. She’ll feel you are all against her, and she will not be far wrong. He said. Alisha sighed, I’m not against her, disappointed in her, yes, but not against her. She said, adding, She is still family. Okay, I know where she is, I’ll go see her and come back. Jared said, standing to disappear.

She was sat forlornly on the seawall, at the far end, her legs dangling over the drop down to the beach. He walked to lean on the wall beside her. I am sorry, Jared. I really do not know why I did that. I know you won’t believe me. I don’t even remember starting that move. I remember tripping you up, and you grumbling, but then, the next thing I remember was you holding something sharp at my throat and telling me to yield. Oh, and an awful pain in my side. I let Elesta read me for that part, and she could find nothing either, not one thought. She explained what I did. Jilea turned to look at him, I’d never do that to you! Not that move, not ever. Anyway, I know you would have figured a counter to it, that’s your way. But who’s going to believe me? she asked, tears ran down her pale cheeks. Jared sighed, and his arms encircled her around her waist, his head against her back, I am, Sister. He said. She reluctantly returned with him to the palace, and Alisha hugged her, both crying. Druna looked at Jilea, I know your mind was empty when you started that move, Sister, so I believe you. Jilea smiled weakly to Druna. Elrek said that she was his sister, so he believed what she said anyway, and got a hug from Jilea. Finally, she sat at the table, What worries me is what made my mind empty? Jilea asked. Elesta said, It was totally empty too, no little normal thoughts either, yet the body moved with purpose. This is something I do not understand. Druna thought and asked, Could there have been thought there, but somehow shielded? Elesta thought, and then nodded, Yes, that is a possibility. I had not thought of that when I read Jilea. But again, it is not something we can do, or have no thought of doing. I would think that the only reason to develop such a skill would be for negative reasons. Or spying reasons Oleth said from the door. Jared smiled up to him, Come, Oleth, we need your sharp mind on this. Oleth bowed to Jared with a grin. He stood before the table, I hate to say it, but in my previous line of work, this sort of thing would have been quite excellent and not just for negative reasons. Elesta looked to Oleth, and Varie sat on the end of the bench.

Well, think of it, a way of hiding part of the mind from those that can read a mind? Or even a way of implanting a complicated series of actions in a persons mind without that person being aware of doing it? All at once you have invented the perfect assassin, the perfect spy and the perfect messenger. Jared nodded, Of course! he said. Now, Oleth continued, the question is who did this to Jilea? Another question is why? A third question is how? Answer any of those, and they will lead us eventually to the other two. Oleth turned to the now frowning Jilea, Sweet Jilea, have you talked to any strangers recently? he asked her. She smiled to Oleth, shaking her head, None that I can remember. She said. Oleth chuckled, That phrase might be more accurate than you think. Have you had any blank spots in your life recently? Jilea shook her head, and then paused, frowning. Well, there was a strange sort of incident the other day. I came to the city here to buy something. I do this occasionally, as our city is still too young to have a good market. But when I returned, I found I had already got exactly what I had bought, and I know I would not have travelled for that, but I cannot remember what I went for, or why I purchased the same again. Oleth smiled, Now that is interesting. To me, that means whoever it is that has done this, was waiting for you. That also means that they are in this city, in, or near the market. Jared stood up, Wait a minute here. If the purpose of all this was to kill me, why go to all this elaborate trouble? I often walk about the city at night, seemingly alone and unarmed. A knife or an arrow would achieve the same results without all this rigmarole. He waved his hand in the air. Oleth chuckled, Yes, it could, if mere assassination was the plan. However, what if there were more to it than that? Who is Jilea? She is your sister, but she is now also the Queen of the New Kingdom. Seeing Jared looking puzzled, Oleth said, Sire, what would have happened if Jilea had managed to kill you today? Jilea covered her face with her hands, and Oleth walked to her and put his hands on her shoulder, Do not become upset, Jilea, this is just a question, not an accusation. Jared frowned, Well, I think I see what you are getting at, Oleth. Landersill and the New Kingdom would split from each other. Oleth nodded, Yes. I do not think this is a plan from either kingdom, but from another, that feels threatened by the union of both kingdoms. However, this also seems rather obvious to me, therefore I am tempted to look further and deeper. I feel we may be facing a devious and intelligent foe here. He looked around, Has anyone else suffered any lapses of memory? Varie put her hand up. Oleth smiled to her, Dear, I know you have many such… he stopped and frowned. Jared looked at him, and would be a perfect target. He said. Oleth nodded, walking to sit beside his wife and talk to her.

Jared sat beside Jilea, and began to talk to her about when she came to buy whatever it was she wanted to buy. What was the last place you remember? he asked her. She frowned in thought. I was down near the docks. Walking down the street where they sell the glass-wear. I saw a shop that had a lovely globe hung in the window, catching the light as it turned and reflecting it like little rainbows. I remember it because the shopkeeper was looking at me like he thought I was going to rob him. She smiled. Then someone called me… I don’t remember anymore. She frowned. Jared hugged her, You have helped me, thank you Sister. He said. He sat for a moment with his eyes closed, then stood up, and left the room. In his bedchamber, Jared changed into clothes a little more royal, mainly a tunic that bore the coat of arms, and a metal-link belt he quite liked with a long dagger and his old sword. He pulled on some fine black leather boots after changing his trews for black leather ones. Alisha slipped in, Oh my! She said looking at him. Do I look more like a King? he asked, turning about. Indeed you do. She said, smiling. Good, I have a shopkeeper to impress. He said, and kissed her. She laughed, Let me brush your hair and braid it then, Sire. He struck a pose as she did that, and then kissed him. I’ll be stealing Oleth for a short time. He said, and she nodded.

So I had the guard find that shop. I thought the shopkeeper would remember Jilea and might help us. Jared said as he and Oleth walked down the street, the people bowing to them as they passed. That was very good thinking, Sire. Oleth said. Jared glanced at him, I can be quite intelligent, you know. He said, and Oleth nodded, grinning. The guard stood before the shop, facing outwards and forming an armoured wall. They saluted Jared and parted to allow him and Oleth to pass into the shop, where the shopkeeper stood in a nervous state. He bowed low upon seeing them. Stand please. I have some questions to ask you that are very important. Jared said. The man stood, his hands held to his chest, his face pale. About one or two weeks ago, a woman stood looking at this thing hung in your window. She is slim, long white hair, green eyes. She dresses in dark male clothing and carries a sword. Do you remember her? Jared asked. The man nodded, Oh yes, Sire! I thought she was going to rob me! She was looking at my globe so intently. Jared nodded, She was then called by someone. Did you see who that person was? the man thought, then nodded, Yes Sire, I was frightened that it may have been one of her accomplices. I moved to the door to watch them, ready to bolt it. Jared nodded, Oleth, you are better at this part than I, please take over. Oleth nodded, stepping to the shopkeeper as Jared stepped to look out of the door. He called the captain of the guard, Have you seen anyone taking an extra interest in this since you’ve been here? he asked. The Captain looked around. When we first arrived, Sire there was a man I took to be a clerk, came out of that door over there, and saw us here. He ducked back inside and closed the door smartly. I later saw him at one of the upper windows watching us. Jared nodded. Can you have one of your men walk around that building to see if there is another door, a back door? If so stand before it, so no-one leaves, by my orders. The Captain nodded, Yes Sire. It was fortunate that the buildings in this part of the city, the old part, were separate buildings, although several floors tall.

Jared walked back into the shop. Oleth came to him, He does not know the man, but has seen him about. He believes he has visited the building across the way. He says the man was hanging about several days before talking to Jilea. Jared nodded. He turned to the shopkeeper, Thank you for your help. How much for the globe hung in the window? The man smiled, It is two silvers, Sire. I have smaller for a silver apiece. Sire, the woman, is she a bandit? Jared dug in his purse, extracting a gold crown, I’ll buy as many smaller ones as that will pay for, please send the package to the Palace. The woman? She is my sister. Jared turned and left the shop, leaving the shopkeeper in shock.

The door of the building was forced, and the guard ascended the stairs to the second floor, but found the chambers empty. Oleth then conducted his own search, as the guard returned to secure the outer two doors and find the owner of the property. Jared stood in the almost empty main room watching Oleth searching, when he heard a sound, and moved very quickly to stand against the wall. Almost silently a section of wall swung aside and a dark clothed figure edged out of the concealed area. Jared, having already unsheathed his dagger, called to Oleth by mindspeak, and Oleth turned to smile at the figure with his own dagger in his hand. The figure gasped, and backed up, stopping when he felt Jared’s dagger against his back. We have so many questions to ask you. Jared said softly. No! the man said. Oh yes. Jared said. The man started to hunch as if in pain, whimpering. Jared, get away for him! Oleth said urgently. Jared moved around the man, backing towards Oleth, watching the slim figure as it fell to its knees, hugging itself. What?… Jared started to ask as the man’s head arched back and he began to scream terribly, his face bone white, his mouth a gaping maw. Then suddenly there was a huge wet explosion that bowled Jared and Oleth back across the floor, painfully up against the far wall. The sound of running feet came up the stairs and the guards burst into the room, only to stop staring around in shock. Jared groaned and climbed to his feet, and looked around. He helped Oleth up. Oh. Oleth said, looking around. Their prisoner had exploded and now was dripping from the ceiling or running down the walls. Its ok men, I don’t think he’ll try to escape further, wait downstairs for us. Just don’t let anyone up. Jared said, and the guards nodded, going downstairs again. Alisha is going to shout at me, again. Jared said, looking at his blood covered clothing. I’m asking Elesta to come. Oleth said. Then tell her to hold her gown up. Jared said.

Elesta walked about trying to avoid obvious bits, holding her gown up off the floor. This is most strange, Jared. Most strange. She said, frowning. Jared nodded, Yup. He said. Oleth was back to searching the few pieces of furniture. I know it is not a nice thing to look at, but I don’t think everything is here. Elesta said. Jared looked around, Well, I must admit, I did think there should be more. He admitted, asking, Could that be what exploded? She nodded, I think you could be correct. Have you found the head? she asked. Oleth waved and pointed into a corner. Ah, thank you, Oleth. Elesta said, walking over there. She squatted down, pulling her sleeve back to delicately roll the head face up. As I thought, it is lighter than it should be; no eyes or teeth. Lower jaw missing. I would say the brain exploded. She stood up. I will have all the pieces collected, if I may? I need to examine them much closer. Jared nodded, and asked, Um, who will… Elesta smiled, Oh, younger healers, of course. It will be a good exercise for them. We’ll get ice from the mountains. Now let me send the call out.

Jared returned, and headed to his bedchamber. He stripped off and washed, then dressed in fresh clothing to return to the dining room. Everyone looked up at him. He sighed and using mindspeak, informed all what had happened. Afterwards they all sat silent. This is not a thing we know of. Druna said, and Jared nodded. Even the Mother has not heard of this before. Druna said. At least we now know we are dealing with more than one person. Jared said. It must be similar to what skill we do possess. Varie said, and Druna nodded, Yes. A rogue Healer? Jared asked, and Druna frowned, That is not outside the realm of possibilities, Father. Some have been lost to us, and not all have been recorded as having died. A few felt there were those that needed their skills beyond the known lands. I can see that one may have developed their skill beyond the limit of their teaching, as Elesta did, but why then return here to use it against us? Druna asked. Unless, in some unknown way, we have threatened them. Jared said. Druna looked up at him, How? Jilea groaned, Oh no! I think I may know. All turned to look at her. She looked at Jared, Algan’s explorations. She said. Jared stood, Ah yes! briefly he explained Algan’s idea of exploring outside the known lands. Not with any aggressive intent at all, far from it. Just purely in the search for knowledge. Just one or a couple of young men searching outwards, marking down what they see, mapping as they go. If they have made contact with another tribe or kingdom, then their intentions could be mistaken. Or perhaps unknowingly they did something wrong. He looked at Jilea, Have you lost contact with any yet? she shook her head, It’s too early to say. The plan was that they would reach out so many days, mark the spot, and then return. They should be returning now. In another week the first will be coming in. Jared nodded. You need to teach them how to call wyverns, and then wyverns could fly out to them, collect maps and check on them. He said to Jilea, who smiled, A good idea, brother. Then Oleth returned, freshly washed and changed.

You have told them all? Good. Well, I found some things, which do not make a lot of sense to me. Oleth said. I can infer that at least one person travelled there several times, perhaps more than one person, for I have found a remnant of what appear to be notes of a meeting. Yet having checked with people living around the area, only that one young man was ever seen to leave and enter the building, therefore I assume the others arrived by travelling. Jared nodded. He didn’t seem to do much except find out information for them. Also, I think, to watch for various people who come out of the Palace. I think it was him who led Jilea into that building, but I think someone else waited inside to do whatever it was to her. I think the young man had very little power. There was gold there, more than he would normally have, but not much, and also evidence of a young woman who might have been brought to him, so I can assume he was recruited through greed. Druna sighed and shook her head. Jared looked at her, Daughter, to a lonely young man, a pretty and willing young lady is a powerful drug. He said, but Druna just looked mystified. Oleth smiled, One thing I did find that I think might be significant is this. Oleth picked up the shoulder bag he’d put down as soon as he’d entered and took from it an object that he put on the table. It was a three-sided pyramid, about the height of Jared’s second finger, in silver. Each side was deeply inscribed with strange geometric markings. It is heavy but not solid. Oleth said. Jared picked it up and turned it over, looking beneath it. Some sort of socket. Jared said. He put it down. He frowned and picked it up again, weighing it in his hand, Oleth, this is not silver. I don’t know what it is, but it’s not silver. He put it down. Jared walked towards the window to think and others looked at the thing. Then he spun around as he heard Varie cry out in pain, and the thing dropped on the floor. Varie stood holding her hand, It’s getting very hot! She said. Jared saw it was getting red and without thinking, he snatched at it with his mind and put it far out into the ocean. From far out came a great swell in the ocean and then raised a tower of water that slowly fell. Elesta was seeing to Varie’s hand. By the Gods! If that had happened in here! Oleth said, his face pale, and Jared nodded. Perhaps you were meant to find it.

"It is sometimes a disadvantage not to have a wall