Journey to Solve the Riddles of Treachery

By Janet Cesanek

The third book of the Journey series follows our adventurers as they try to overcome setbacks in their quests and more importantly, to reunite with their friend before their bond is broken forever. Follow along as Thor, Valkrye, Burnhilt and their friends, new and old try to solve riddles that have changed the course of their lives forever.

• Language: English
• Publisher: AuthorHouse
• Release date: May 30, 2013
• ISBN: 9781481756778

Janet Cesanek

Janet has been writing since she was a child and has evolved her short stories into a series of adventure fantasies. Join her as you delve into the world she has created for all to enjoy.

Book preview

Chapter 1

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T he warm sea breeze blew through the small cabin of the ship. It was mid-morning and the skies to the east were still clear, even though the western skies were darkening. Valkrye slowly became aware of herself waking up. She wasn’t sure how long she had been out cold. At first she couldn’t remember very much, but she was aware of a pounding headache and the dryness of her mouth. She really wanted a drink but needed to wake up more first. After a couple of moments and a few deep breaths of fresh air she slowly opened her eyes. She was lying on her back and looking up at the unfamiliar ceiling she tried to recall where she was and how she got there.

For a few moments more her mind was a blank, then she recalled being at the trading village and then being bartered for and finally sold. She remembered then when she was put on the caravan’s wagon she kicked a couple of the guards, causing one of them to lose a tooth. She also remembered Thor being hit from behind again as he tried to break free. Sporadically she remembered the trip to the ship, then her being taken from the wagon to the dock where Sidiki’s ship was anchored. When she moved her hand to rub the sore spot on her jaw and felt the heavy iron cuffs and saw the long chain connecting them, she then remembered trying to fight as they led her and eventually had to carry her on board, she was punched by one of the guards who was tired of her struggles, he was also angered that the first blow didn’t fell her, but the second one did. Valkrye vowed to pay that one back at her first opportunity.

When she tried to sit up she noticed the second chain, this one attached to her right ankle and secured to the bed, which was bolted to the floor for safety during storms.

Oh yeah. She muttered to herself as kept trying to clear her head and remind herself of her predicament. She didn’t dwell on it long however. The first worry on her mind was Thor and the others.

‘Even his hard head can’t take much more of those blows.’ She thought to herself. She looked around the small cabin and tried to assess the situation. Besides the bed, there were a couple of locked trunks and two chairs. Although it was small, it was clean and fresh air reached it. Valkrye also discovered she could move far enough away from the bed to relieve herself in the chamber pot but no further. After doing just that, she sat back on the bed and examined the locks on the cuffs on her wrists and ankle. She frowned, they wouldn’t be impossible to get out of, but they wouldn’t be easy either, and it made a difference how much time she had without being seen if she would be able to free herself.

Just as she that thought came to mind she heard footsteps outside the door, then the turning of a key and the door swung open. A large man entered the door and narrowed his eyes at her sitting on the bed. She didn’t cringe or cower like other women he had purchased in the past, but instead of angering him, it intrigued him in a way. He closed the door and walked just a few steps in, she still did nothing, and of course she was chained so she couldn’t likely run or even try to attack, but he expected more he guessed.

So, I hope you are enjoying the trip so far. He said with heavy sarcasm in his voice. She didn’t say a word, what was there to say except things that would make the situation even worse. She would bide her time and wait for the best opportunity to try to escape. She certainly didn’t like the predatory gleam in his eye but she controlled herself and waited. The man made a face that could be construed as confusion but said nothing. He walked to one of the chairs and turned it around and straddled it and sat watching her. Again, seemingly wondering if she was going to say something or ask for her release or some other ridiculous idea. The thought never crossed her mind though, she just watched the man. He was large with strong muscles and the build of a man who was at sea a lot. From what she could see of him, he had many scars on his forearms and hands, probably from numerous battles at sea, he also had one scar on his neck that looked as if it could have been life threatening when it happened. What a shame it didn’t kill him she thought to herself.

So, a warrior you are? That is very interesting to me, if you were of a mind to, I wouldn’t mind hearing how someone with your skill level ended up in a trading village. He watched her for a moment more but she didn’t falter her gaze and he shrugged. Yes, I didn’t think you were in the mood to talk, but then, talking isn’t what I paid gold for. He stood and walked closer to her and he saw her muscles clench as she readied for what he might do. He raised his hand as if he were to strike her across the face but stopped when she didn’t move an inch. She obviously wasn’t going to be scared into submission like other captives he had. Then he quickly moved and grabbed the chain and pushing her shoulder with his free hand laid her back on the bed and held the chain over her head. Instinctively she raised her free leg to push at him and was successful to a point but once he grabbed his footing he put his full weight on her leg and had her pinned.

Then he just stared at her and all he saw was anger, this was almost fun he thought. He would have a very enjoyable time breaking her will to submit to him. After watching her for a moment he finally spoke.

Don’t worry yourself; I want to take my time with you. You were a very expensive plaything and there is a storm coming and my ship needs me, I don’t want this fun to be rushed. I just wanted to see you before the day ended while you were awake. He snickered. You have been unconscious for quite a while. He ran a hand over the beginning bruise on her jaw; she loathed his touch and spit in his face to prove it. That made him tighten his grip on her sore jaw and she made the smallest gasp at the pain and that made him feel very good. He stared at her, his eyes close to hers. If it makes you feel any better, I broke the jaw of the guard who struck you. As long as you are mine, the only pain you need to worry about is from me, remember that when you are deciding to defy me.

She stared at him but still said nothing, he didn’t care but he muttered a string of curses when he heard a knock at the door and a man’s voice urgently calling him.

Truly the gods must favor you; no one usually dares to interrupt me, so it must be something important. Don’t worry though, I will spend plenty of time on you when we get to my palace, think about that while I am gone. He said with an evil grin and was rewarded with a small shudder of revulsion from her making him laugh.

I will enjoy you greatly. He released her and walked to the door. To the guard whom Valkrye assumed was posted at her door he said.

Be sure she is brought food. In a couple of hours the storm will catch us. Remember, no one is to touch her, there are other females for the crew. The guard nodded.

Aye sir, I will let no one pass. Valkrye had sat up as soon as he released his hold on her. She believed him that no other on his crew would bother her and also that he wouldn’t take her until they reached his lair. If she couldn’t escape by then… she didn’t fear him as he wanted her to but she certainly didn’t want to endure bedding with him, but she wouldn’t lie to herself if something didn’t change soon she wouldn’t be given a choice.

A friend of hers in her village once said she would rather take her own life than be raped by someone. Valkrye had chuckled then and told her that she loved life too much to sacrifice it over one man’s lust. Now that she faced the problem, she was glad to find her opinion had not changed, as unpleasant as the thought was, she wouldn’t give her life up for that. She also decided to wait out the ship voyage and find an opportunity on the land part of the travel to the palace.

The key turned in the lock again and the guard entered hearing a tray of food. He placed it on the edge of the bed, keeping his on her in case she tried anything and then left the room. Valkrye looked at it a few minutes before deciding to eat. She wasn’t going to starve herself just to prove she didn’t want to be there, she was sure he knew that, besides she would need her strength for whatever happened.

After she ate she leaned back and listened to the increasing wind, the ships rolling became increasingly heavier and as the first drops of rain fell, Valkrye closed the portal above the bed. It wasn’t the first time she had been at sea during a storm so it didn’t bother her. The only passing thought was hoping the crew knew what they were doing, from what she felt of the pitching with the waves it didn’t seem to be a very large ship, and she had seen small ships with bad crews go down simply because no one knew how to do things right. Drowning while chained to her captor’s bed wasn’t her idea of a warrior’s death. She leaned back again almost bored waiting for the storm to come and pass. She wished she had something to read but it would soon be too dark from the storm clouds coming in to read anyway. By the time the storm had hit and was half over, she had fallen asleep while contemplating her few options.

Meanwhile another ship was weathering the storm as well, only this one was on the far side of the river at least a days travel behind the first ship and with the little progress they made during the now over for them storm it would take even longer.

Everything that will happen, all happens at once. Thor was muttering to himself as he bailed water from the lifeboats hanging over the side. His large muscles bulging with every movement his anger making them even more strained. This time it was the sea and storm causing his anger. It seemed to him that for some reason he angered the gods and now they were trying to anger him. He wouldn’t be surprised if they were badly off course by now.

After finishing the boat he was working on he glanced up at the main sail. Dacre was up there with some crew members tying off the sail and supporting a splintering yardarm. Dacre had volunteered since he had sailed many times before and as part of a crew for most of those journeys, so he had great knowledge of what he had to do. Thor was the first to admit he knew little of sailing, he didn’t even like being aboard ship unless it was necessary as it was now. He replaced the tarp and went to check how the animals fared the storm.

The animal area had hay and some feed scattered about but at least it stayed dry and they didn’t have to worry about the horses getting tender feet from standing in dampness. Goliath however, was being his normal nervous self. Even though Luna, Valkrye’s cat, had stayed with him, on a shelf near his head, he still had kicked the wall several times during the storm as could be seen by the fresh marks on the walls. He kicked so hard in fact that he seemed to be favoring one of his rear legs.

What have you done to yourself now, you great beast. Thor said as he entered the stall. The horse backed away at first but Thor remained patient stroking the horse’s nose and talking kindly to him. He couldn’t blame the animal for not liking the storm or the ship since he didn’t care for them either. He also doubted if the animal had ever even been aboard a ship in his life. After a few moments Goliath calmed enough to let Thor look at his leg. Inspecting it, he found it to be slightly tender and the shoe a bit loose but that could be fixed easily and he was sure the leg was fine with no breaks or cuts so that was the important thing. He just hoped the horse would stop kicking. He found some cloth to wrap and cushion the ankle in case he did start up again and then gave him an apple. Then he checked the other horses that were fine as they were of a much calmer temperament. He also gave a little attention to Sinbad who had run in here when the ship started to pitch badly. Burnhilt had explained the hound had never liked storms so that would explain his nervousness. Thor now went up on deck where he was greeted by Burnhilt and the captain.

Well now lad, how be the animals after the ride? Burnhilt asked and Thor shrugged.

Nothing of consequence, Valkrye’s horse is a bit skittish but that is normal. Burnhilt nodded as Thor turned his attention to the captain. Sir, since the storm is all but over, how soon can you tell how much time we lost?

I’ll be knowing much better with the stars to guide or daylight to judge, but judging by the currents we stayed in, we might be closer than we would be without the storm. Thor nodded. He wouldn’t know if the little man was lying or not but he thought he could judge the man well enough to be pretty sure that he was telling the truth.

Good, I hope Valkrye can hold her own for a while, she is a strong fighter. Burnhilt and the captain exchanged glances for each knew the danger she was in being captive among so many warriors and how far ahead her captors were.

Of course lad. Burnhilt began. She be through many fights before, with or without us, she always be taking care of herself. Thor sighed and went around the ship to see if anyone needed help. The captain who had become quite fond of Burnhilt and his friends said.

I’ve never be having the pleasure of meeting this lass, but I hope she is as strong as all of you say. Nasty men they be who have her and you can bet me ship they won’t give her a chance to fight. Burnhilt grimaced as he watched the calming water.

Aye, she is strong, but she also is good at making her own chances. Mayhap before we even be gettin’ there.

I sure be hoping so. The captain said just before he yelled instructions to the men behind them. Burnhilt stayed by the rail for a bit longer, watching the dark clouds. It had been a fast moving storm and he could see the waves of clouds racing past. Judging by the speed and size of the storm, it should be hitting the other ship soon, if it hasn’t already he thought. Just as he hoped the storm had helped the speed of their crossing, he hoped it would slow the other ship.

This time when Valkrye woke, the cabin was dark, the ship was rolling more but her head felt much better. She looked around a bit letting her eyes focus to the small amount of light. After a short time she could make out the shadows of things and to her left was a desk she didn’t take notice of before. In fact, she didn’t think she looked at anything on that side of the room. The chain on her leg kept her from seeing if there was anything of consequence in that desk. She did however reopen the portal since it was no longer raining and took a deep breath of the sea air. At times like this she wished she had been born a male like her father used to say. At least then she wouldn’t have to deal with men and their filthy minds.

No, she said aloud to herself. I’d probably have a filthy mind of my own in that case. Looking toward the sky she could see no stars so the storm couldn’t have stopped too long ago. She had woken up a few times during the height of the storm but then fell back asleep when she didn’t hear anything wrong like a splintering mast or something of that sort. She also thought the darkness was deceptive; it couldn’t be that late since she fell asleep just after the mid-day meal. She watched out the portal for some time before she sat back on the bed, bored beyond belief. If there was anywhere to go she would fight her way out just for something to do, but she knew she couldn’t fight an entire ship full of men and even if she could, she couldn’t swim home.

A couple of hours later the same guard as before opened the door with food and watered wine for her. Since she felt cranky she asked in a scathing tone.

Aren’t you allowed to sleep or is no one else trusted to come near me? he narrowed his eyes at her knowing she was trying to provoke him. He wouldn’t blame her in the position she was in, but still, he was no fool.

Ye could say that I be easier to trust than some of the others since the captain has known me longer and if I be wanting a female, I have my own. Valkrye said nothing but she did wonder how strong the man’s loyalties were. He put the tray down and took the empty tray from before that had been knocked to the floor. At least you have a good appetite; some of Sidiki’s women have tried to starve themselves. Valkrye looked at him evenly.

Why should I punish my own body when your leader has plans on that himself? the guard chuckled.

It is a shame Sidiki has claimed you. I like a female with spirit, who is not afraid. She took a bite of a slice of fruit before she answered.

Fear has its place, to warn you that something is not right. Once you know there is danger there is no sense in fearing it, only dealing with it. This time the guard frowned a bit at his own thought, he came a bit closer to Valkrye and lowered his voice.

Although I admire your spirit I warn you… he glanced over his shoulder at the slightly ajar door. If Sidiki finds you are not afraid of him, he will do his best to make you afraid. When she didn’t react he stood and shrugged. Have a care; he can be a brutal man. He then hurried out, locking the door behind him.

Valkrye thought on the man’s words for a moment before she continued to eat. Playing the simpering female just to save a few hits wasn’t going to happen, if he wanted his way, he would have to fight her for it. Finishing the meal she drank some of the wine and stood and walked as far away from the bed as she could. Which was only a few steps, she stopped and looked back at the bed. That chain was becoming annoying. She sat back on the bed with her back to the door in case it was opened quickly, she didn’t have to worry about anyone seeing her since the door was solid. She then took the iron pick out of her boot and started to work on the lock.

Half an hour later just when she was ready to curse the thing to hell it finally clicked and fell opened. Her first impulse was to throw the blasted thing as far as it would go but she needed to leave it there so when someone entered she could pretend she was still chained by covering her feet with a blanket. She quickly hid the pick back down in her boot in its hiding place. Quietly, watching the door, she slid off the bed not allowing the chains on her wrists to make noise. First she went to the large glass window to get a view of the outside. As she suspected the window was facing the front of the ship.

Carefully peering out from the side of it so as not to be seen, she could see the deck and a few sailors going about their business. She could also see the cabin she was in was at least ten feet above the main deck. A small consolation that she wasn’t thrown below like some hay, but since this obviously was not her captor’s cabin due to the few furnishings and the locks, she assumed he used this for all his slave women to be transported. Looking past the deck she could she land ahead. Given a good wind they might make land by nightfall. Valkrye guessed the latest they would be on land would be tomorrow morning. She wished she knew more about the crew and how they ran their daily routine so she would find an easy break point.

She looked about the room again and her attention focused on the desk which was bolted to the floor on the far side of the bed. A couple of top drawers were locked and the shelves were empty but one large bottom drawer contained several rolled up maps. She looked at a few, all sea and river maps before she heard a voice outside the door, then the guards answer.

Aye Sidiki, she has been quiet all day. Valkrye quickly scooted to the bed and positioned herself so she looked still chained. He entered the room wearing a broad grin.

I wouldn’t want you to think I had forgotten you. He smirked as he shut the door and walked to the bed. Valkrye gave him her coldest stare and replied.

But I, having enjoyed the fresh sea air had forgotten you and your stench. Sidiki’s face turned red but he didn’t lose his smile.

If I didn’t think better of you, I would say you want me to end your life here and now. Before she could reply he continued, But nay, you are not that foolish, nor am I willing to forego my pleasure with you. He leaned closer and she involuntarily leaned back. Should I take you now? With the fresh sea air about us? he asked with great sarcasm. Instinctively she drew an arm back to strike at him; he saw the move and grabbed the chain about her wrists again. He put her hands pinned above her head again. Although this time he moved his weight on her more completely. He was prepared for her to fight him and when she didn’t it was enough to make him pause and look into her eyes. He saw no fear there just anger and mayhap a bit of revulsion. Using his free hand he brushed away a lock of hair that had fallen over her eyes.

You are an earthy thing. He leaned down to kiss her but she moved her head to the side, not willing to be that passive. He grinned again and, the feeling of control returned now. He gripped her chin applying force until she was forced to turn back. He then covered her mouth with his, the first stirring of desire which was growing by the movement. When he pulled away, ignoring the fact of her trying to bite him, he waited for her to say something. When she didn’t he almost laughed, but instead he reached in back of the head board to release a switch that allowed him to attach the rings on each of the iron wrist cuffs. Valkrye took a deep calming breath. She would not lose control of herself, but she still had her knife if she could get to it, even though she knew it would be sealing her own fate. Sidiki saw the look of recognition in her eyes and mistook it for resigning to be his mistress.

When he tried to kiss her again she again moved her face away from him. He then moved his entire weight upon her and let his hands wander about her body watching for any reaction. She merely kept looking to the side and wasn’t fighting him yet. Just as his hand was working its way under her garments, which were much too tight for his taste, the ship was rocked by a heavy impact. And there were shouts and orders coming from all corners of the ship.

Pirates. He muttered, he grabbed her hair and made Valkrye face him. The gods favor you too much, but make no mistake, they will get bored of you and their favor will run out, I always win in the end. He then released her chains and headed on deck to deal with those attacking his ship. Valkrye sat up as soon as he was away, she watched him leave as she rubbed her wrists.

Well at least I was right about him using this room for other females. She said as she ran her hand behind the headboard looking for whatever switch he used. After a few minutes of not finding it she went to the window to watch the fighting. A much smaller raiding ship had tried to