A Daughter's Story

By Voldemars Adminis

Maris reads her fathers memoirs and finds out much more than his tales of leaving home as a young boy. His travels and growth along the way. She finds out about his loves along the way and who her mother really is. She knew of her fathers battles with inhuman creatures, witches and the natives that live in the land her father tamed and ruled. His mind speech with all the creatures of the world, but why would he hide her true birth. Through many adventures. Talking to others, including her brother, she finds herself as well as her own history.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Voldemars Adminis
• Release date: Jan 9, 2020
• ISBN: 9780463379660

Voldemars Adminis

Worked as a commercial printer for most of my 60 plus years of life. Wrote poetry when I was young but never thought it was any good. I wrote a weekly newspaper column for three years. Was a Scout leader and love the outdoors and all animals. Have a group of deer that regularly visit my yard in the small town I live in. Now that I am retired have time to write down all the images and stories in my head. Never had faith in my writing till I met a very special girl, who convinced me to at least try. Now I enjoy getting my thoughts down that I am at it full time.

Book preview

A Daughters Tale

written by Voldemars Adminis

Copyright 2020 by Walter Scott

Dedicated to my inspirational muse

Precious Lina

the only one who showed any faith in what I could become.

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Chapter One

The old man sat before the fire, verbally contemplating the long life he had. so the other man sitting across from him, could hear and write his words. Ivo knew that he should have started this work much sooner but something had always come up. Disputes to settle or a family wedding to attend. Then there were his father's and mother's funerals. Always something till recently, when he had placed another in place to rule. That was neither here nor there now. He could only pray to the Goddess that he had enough time to finish his tale before he met her. Looking at the man waiting to write more, he said, That is enough for this day scribe Tabir. Go. Enjoy what is left of the day. We will continue in the morning.

As you wish your majesty, the scribe said as he rose and bowed.

All this time, and you still treat me as if I were above you. You have learned nothing over the years we have spent together. You know I detest all that silly formality. I may be called a ruler but I am no better than any of my people.

I do know that is how you wish to be seen sire, but anyone who has created such a peaceful land and controls dragons, elves and the beasts of the sea, deserves to be honoured.

You have been writing my ramblings for many long days now Tabir, yet you still think I control them. Maybe you should read what I have been saying. He paused a moment and then continued. That is a good idea. You do that my friend. Take the next week or however long it takes. We are almost done anyway. Return when you truly understand what you have written. Not one moment sooner, said the old man as he rose and slowly walked to his stone cabin. He stopped at the door and turned. Next time we meet Tabir, I will take your head off with my sword if you mumble one sire or majesty. Remember that well. The old man winked at the scribe.

The scribe, smiling, bowed and replied. I will try but cannot promise that one or two will not slip out. Till I return, si..... Master Ivo. Stay well.

The scribe turned and walked down the hill, softly whistling as he always did. It was an old tune that Ivo knew well, as it had been taught to him at a very young age, by his parents. Ivo looked at the fire and saw the image of his father and mother sitting with him and his sisters as they played the tune on their flutes. They were swaying with the tune, which was occasionally broken as his parents leaned over and kissed each other. Ivo had questioned his decision to leave home when he did a lot lately. He knew he was loved and his parents did what they thought was best. His decision to go was fuelled by the curiosity his father had instilled in him as they walked the hills and mountains in his father's quest to find a passage to the south. Ragna had been so sure there had to be a passage, that Ivo had taken up his father's search to find it. That was so many years past now, the memories were faded with the passage of time.

Come father. I have your meal ready and we will bathe you after. You look tired. You should not worry about that book so much, said a slender girl as she took Ivo's hand and helped him to the small table where the food awaited his attention.

You should be with your family, Maris. Why do you bother with this old man? There are others who can do this. Ivo stated as he sat.

Yes, you have many who would care for you, as long as you paid them enough. None of them love you as I do. You remember that Ragnas will be here tomorrow to take you to the court? Maris queried as she watched her father eat.

I suppose he will bring the whole army with him, just to get me to go. That boy has no respect for his father. Ivo leaned back and let out a cackling laugh. Reminds me of myself.

Maris smiled at his joke. Father, you know he does respect you. He just tries hard to please you. Maybe naming him after your father was not a good idea, she said, smiling at her father.

Maybe you are right, but too late to worry about such trivial things. I have told Tabir to read what has been done so he will be busy till I can return. I am sure he will correct and embellish the story as he is want to do. I only hope it is not going to make me out as some half god. You will make sure it doesn't Maris. Won't you?

Of course father. It will not be placed into the library till I read it and approve it. You know that as keeper of the words it is my duty to approve all books, she said as she kissed his forehead. Now come and have your bath so I can tuck you in.

Ivo entered the next room where he bathed with the help of his two female servants. As much as he enjoyed their attention, he was upset that he had gotten so feeble that he could not do everything for himself. In his night robe he returned to the small bed in his living quarters, as the women left. Maris made sure he was comfortable as she had done for so many nights now. She gave up time with her man and children to take care of him. She was so much like his sisters who had done the same for their parents. Although the night was cool Ivo kept a window open so he could better hear the sounds of the night to lull him to sleep. As Maris walked to the door to leave, she turned and looked back. The look on her face told Ivo she was puzzled about something so he asked, What bothers you child?

I am not sure father. I sense something but cannot place my finger on it. It is almost the same feeling I felt when you told me your father had passed. If that is going to happen to you then I best not leave at all, she replied.

Go child. Be with your family. Whether or not you are here my time will come and yours will continue. I am at peace and do not need sad faces around me. As best I know it is not time yet. Now go so I can sleep child. Know that you are in my heart always.

Ivo woke early as he always had and struggled to get into his clothes. He was just fastening the shirt as there was a tap on the door and his two handmaids entered. They rushed to him as they saw he was up. Get away from me! Ivo snapped. I am still capable of doing some things myself.

You are not going in those garments, Sire? You must wear your finest clothes. This is a very special day. said Salinis.

Humbug! I only go to confer a new ruler. If I must, I will wear that over adorned cloak, but not till it is time for the ceremony. Today I travel. Nothing more. Ivo replied.

You wish your usual meal, Master? asked Riga as she put a pan over the newly started fire.

Yes my dear. Only a half portion. You know I do not wish to eat much when I have to travel. Maybe one day we will have coaches that do not shake a body to pieces. Ivo chuckled at what he said.

After eating, as Ivo sat drinking his morning tea, a loud trumpeting was heard from outside. Ivo opened the door to see his son standing there with what looked like the whole army, but was no more than a couple of squads. He was holding the door to the highly decorated carriage open.

You are ready to go Sire? Ragnas asked.

Do I have a choice? Ivo asked in reply as he smiled at his son.

I did not come all this way to argue with you father. Shall we go? said Ragnas.

Ragnas helped his father into the carriage before he mounted his horse. Giving the command to head out, they set off with half the troops in front as the rest followed the coach. Everyone in the small village was standing and waved as Ivo passed them. Ivo returned their waves and knew it would be like this all the way to the capital. As the wagon rattled along the dirt road he settled back as best he could. Ivo was thankful for the large pillows he had to sit on. They cushioned the bumps a bit at least. Soldiers at the checkpoint saluted as the carriage passed. Then the road smoothed out as they went through the narrow pass between the mountains that led to the wide open country ahead.

The trip was quiet and even farmers along the way came out to see their ruler passing. Ivo looked forward to the overnight stop at the North Inn. There was one barmaid there that he had teased for as long as he could remember. She had always refused his advances. Maybe if he had not been the ruler, she would have bonded with him, but she had always been honest. If she did not like what he did or said, she spoke her mind. Ivo often wished all his advisors had done the same. He had learned early that if you wish to know what is best for the people, you had to talk to the people themselves and listen. Often he had travelled as a peasant to learn what they really thought of his ruling. He smiled as he remembered those times. No one had ever suspected him to be their king. He really enjoyed those days.

The procession came to a halt. Ragnas opened the door and said, Sorry father, there is a wagon overturned ahead. I have sent some men to help set it right but till they are done we stop here. You wish to to get out and stretch?

Yes. Thank you Ragnas. It does get these old bones stiff, sitting for so long. Where are we? Far from the Inn?

Halfway there but we will not be staying there tonight. I have had tents set up for you near where it used to be. replied Ragnas.

I had forgotten. They never rebuilt it after the fire. It is a shame. I did so like that place. Ivo mused as he strode off along the road, followed by two large men, careful to stay two paces behind.

Soon they were on their way again. The overnight stop was peaceful and as they arrived in the capital the next afternoon, people lined the street cheering his name and waving flags. Ivo would never get used to all the attention, but in creating the peaceful land he ruled, he had come to accept that it was a necessary evil. The next day a large celebration would be held, and from that day on, the land would be in Modero's hands. Ivo had wanted to set Ragnas in command but he had refused. He was more than happy as Captain of the guards. Ivo suspected it was Ragnas' way of dealing with his wanderlust, that seemed to run on the male side of the family.

The transfer of power went smoothly and Ivo was finally freed of all his responsibilities. He slipped out of the celebrations, changed out of the elaborately embroidered garments he had to wear for the ceremony. His leather clothes were much more comfortable. As he walked down the hidden passage he heard the people celebrating in the banquet hall. They would party for days but he wanted no part of it. Carefully exiting into the stable, Ivo went to where he knew he would find a fast steed. As he lead it from the stable a guard stopped him.

Halt! Step into the light and identify yourself! he snapped.

Glad to see you are still guarding my animals. Ivo said as he stepped from the stable and walked past the open mouthed guard. I am only going for a ride. You wouldn't arrest your former ruler would you? The guard mumble something, but Ivo was on the horse and riding quickly away, so he never heard what the man said.

Ivo stayed on the main road till the capital was out of sight before he found a seldom used trail that went due north to the mountains. He felt alive, being on the horse on his own. More alive than he had in a very long time. He projected images to the horse with his mind and it followed obediently. He stopped at a pond. He remembered this place from long ago when he had first travelled this land. Ivo had made his first home near here. To the north the spires of the 'Sky Towers' soared above everything. Those strange towers of stone that none could enter or knew how they had been created. They had drawn Ivo to this land and still he had no idea what they were.

Are you rested my friend? Ivo asked the horse.

In answer, the horse dipped down so Ivo could more easily mount his back. You understand me yet you do not speak. Well my friend, you are free to do as you wish. Shall we continue? I do hope you are sure footed and do not fear high places. Ivo said as he imaged the pass he wished to go through to get back to his little valley. The horse shivered but stood and carried Ivo northward to the mountains. We will stop and rest before we climb the high pass, my friend. There is a spring and nice fresh grass so you can gain strength for the climb.

As Ivo sat with his back against a tall tree, he watched the horse graze. Strange that it would not speak with him. From it's actions he knew it had the power to but chose not to. He wondered if he should set it free and let it find it's own tribe. He asked the horse if it wished to be free from man's will, but only got a negative head shake from it. Ivo decided that his steed companion may not be who it seemed to be but it was none of his concern to push the animal for any information it was not ready to give.

Ivo slept restlessly and woke early to see the horse ready and waiting for him. Before he could mount another rider rode up and quickly dismounted. Father. Are you alright? Where are you going? We were so worried when we couldn't find you. exclaimed Ragnas.

I needed time alone. I am on my way back to the valley. You return to your duties son. I am fine. You have a new leader to watch over now. Besides, this fine steed is taking care of me. Ivo replied with a smile on his lips.

I should have known you would sneak away first chance you got. I will recall all the searchers and see you at the winter's solstice as always father. You, steed, take good care of him. See that he gets to his beloved valley, Ragnas said as he remounted his horse and rode back to the capital.

Well, shall we proceed? I am sure my son will have someone follow us to be sure we are safe. It is not like him to leave so easily. As long as they stay out of my sight it is of no concern.

Ivo rode up into the mountains. He pulled his fur cape closer as they reached the higher altitudes. The wind blew lightly and the thinner air chilled him to the bone. The horse seemed not to feel the cold. You are a strange horse, Ivo thought to himself. At the top of the pass Ivo saw that a landslide had taken out the only way down. Looking around he saw no way past it. Well my faithful steed, it looks as though we must to go back as we came. We will have to take the other way into my valley.

You give up too easy my old friend. Is that what living so long does to you humans? said a very familiar voice in his head.

Ba'Kor! Where are you my friend? Would you be so kind as to take me and my horse to the valley floor?

You, I will take and since you are on my back, the 'steed' as you call me will come too.

Suddenly Ivo was sitting on the back of a large black dragon. With a leap and mighty stroke of its wings they were airborne and gliding to the valley below. No sooner had they landed then Ivo was back on the horse. Just a short ride to his hut now.

Thank you Ba'Kor. All these years and not once did I suspect you had the power to change form. You have done this before I must assume. One day you must tell me where and what you have changed into. I never suspected. I was so foolish.

We are here Ivo. Go and get some rest and we will speak later. The time has come for you to rest. I will remain close.

Maris helped him down and into the hut. As always she made him a meal and asked about the ceremony and how her brother was. They chatted of other trivial things such as crops and who wore what at the ceremony as Ivo ate. He was tired and barely stayed awake while his hand maidens washed him and made sure he was ready for bed. His daughter tucked him in and looked back at her father who looked so peaceful and smiled as she closed the door behind her. The walk home was a short one and she hugged her man and children when she entered her home. Then a chill ran up her spine as the loud cry of dragons reverberated through the valley. She knew it was for her father and she wept. The entire village knew. They had heard that cry several times before, but now it was for one of their own. There would be a time of mourning for the hero of the land. His servants would prepare Ivo's spirit to be freed so he could travel to the Goddess.

The next morning she had Tabir bring her his writings so she could prepare them for the library. She would write the last chapter herself. As she went to her work room she heard the animals on the hill letting out their cries of mourning. The word had been sent out and every district would send emissaries to the funeral. Ivo would have to tolerate one more elaborate ceremony. Then he could finally rest. Maris took it upon herself to notify his sisters. She was sure they would come if they could travel. They were not so young themselves now but they would make the effort to be here for their brother.

The days passed slowly with everyone sending their sorrowful wishes, along with notification they would be there for the funeral pyre. She did not bother reading them but sent her thanks for all. Madero requested the ceremony be held in the capital, but honoured her wishes that it was held where her father had passed on. The small valley was filled with tents and people as the day approached. Maris doubted there had ever been such a gathering outside of the capital. Many elves and dwarves came, as did a woman riding a black dragon. She had stayed beside her father's hut and spoke to no one. No one dared approach her with such a fearsome dragon standing guard. Maris went anyway to find out who she was and how she knew her father, but all the woman said was, 'I represent Vold's valley. When you read his story, you will know us too.' How the woman knew of her father's writings she would not say. Maris was determined to carefully read the story as soon as all the pomp and ceremony was done. Obviously Ivo had not told his children everything about his life. She would have to learn of it through his writings and what she heard others speak of.

Chapter Two

Ragnas and Maris held the torch to light the pyre when three dragons glided low and circled the large pile of wood on which Ivo's body lay. Ragnas stepped toward the wood as did Maris and they pushed the torch into the kindling pile. Stepping back as the flames engulfed the pile, they listened as the valley filled with song. Hundreds of voices filled the air and rose to the heavens in unison as they sang:

Even the royal chariots wear out;

and indeed this body too wears out.

But the teaching of goddess does not age;

and so the Goddess receives the good ones.

The Mother Danu says, Life is a journey.

Death is a return to earth.

The universe is like an inn.

The passing years are like dust.

Regard this world

As a star at dawn, a bubble in a stream,

a flash of lightning in a summer cloud,

A flickering lamp – a phantom – and a dream.

May Danu guide your journey Lord Ivo.

While the song was repeated over and over, weeping was heard. Maris wiped her own tears as she watched the flames soar into the sky as the dragons continued circling them. Several people in their finest clothes came up to her and expressed their sorrow at her loss. Maris thought this was a bit strange as it was not just her loss. The country had lost its long time ruler, so they had all lost a good man. As she greeted and thanked those who were coming to her, she looked for her brother but Ragnas was no where in sight. It was so like him to wander off and stay in the background of such affairs. He really was much like their father in that regard.

An elf and dwarf approached Maris. We wish to express our sympathies at your loss, Maris. Your father was a good man, for a human, said the dwarf who was dressed in highly embroidered cloth. I was honoured to know him before he became the ruler of this great land. He was a good miner and this is for you. He handed her a dark bottle of liquid. It is not strong drink child, as I know you do not drink strong mead. It is a wine your father enjoyed as he rested after work.

Maris handed it to Tabir who had joined her to take all the gifts she was given. Thanking the dwarf with a hug she turned to the elf who looked very regal in her golden garments. Forgive Agustam for his lack of courtesy. It is a dwarven trait. I am Alfwerdia, speaker for the elves. This amulet was made as a gift for you, she said as she fastened the silver disc on Maris' neck with the fine chain. The symbol as you can see is the one on your flag. Your father used it as it is the symbol of peace on all of Danu. Alfwerdia bowed and stepped back. Stay well Maris. With that they moved away and others took their place.

It was dark when Maris finally sat cross legged before the still glowing fire. There was a cry of dragons and all sent their flames to the pyre, turning it to total ash. In her head a familiar voice said, It is done child. He has gone to meet the Goddess. I go, but if you have need just call.

Thank you Ba'Kor. You are indeed a true friend, Maris replied.

Ragnas placed his hand on Maris' shoulder. "Come sister. You should rest now. People are leaving