Dragonspawn Awakening: Book Two of the Dragonspawn Trilogy

By Thomas Rottinghaus

“Dragonspawn Awakening” is the highly anticipated second installment in The Dragonspawn Trilogy. As the magii’ri Warriors and Wizards return to Norland they discover Timon’s power has grown despite his near defeat on the Isle of Serpents. He has allied himself with Dark Wizards and creatures of the Dark to initiate the Wi

• Language: English
• Publisher: URLink Print & Media, LLC
• Release date: May 10, 2019
• ISBN: 9781643674032

Thomas Rottinghaus

"Thomas Rottinghaus has been an avid reader of many genres his entire life, and was especially enamored by the works of J R R Tolkien. He resides in western Colorado with his wife Lisa and a house full of pets, including Jake, a blue heeler named after a character in "Graywullf"."

Book preview

Contents

PROLOGUE

CHAPTER ONE

CHAPTER TWO

CHAPTER THREE

CHAPTER FOUR

CHAPTER FIVE

CHAPTER SIX

CHAPTER SEVEN

CHAPTER EIGHT

CHAPTER NINE

CHAPTER TEN

CHAPTER ELEVEN

CHAPTER TWELVE

CHAPTER THIRTEEN

CHAPTER FOURTEEN

CHAPTER FIFTEEN

CHAPTER SIXTEEN

CHAPTER SEVENTEEN

CHAPTER EIGHTEEN

CHAPTER NINETEEN

CHAPTER TWENTY

CHAPTER TWENTY-ONE

CHAPTER TWENTY-TWO

CHAPTER TWENTY-THREE

CHAPTER TWENTY-FOUR

CHAPTER TWENTY-FIVE

CHAPTER TWENTY-SIX

CHAPTER TWENTY-SEVEN

CHAPTER TWENTY-EIGHT

CHAPTER TWENTY-NINE

CHAPTER THIRTY

CHAPTER THIRTY-ONE

CHAPTER THIRTY-TWO

PROLOGUE

The great country of Norland, once the most powerful and rich nation in the World, is reeling from the aftereffects of a bloody revolution. The magii’ri Wizards entrusted with absolute power to rule became corrupt and orchestrated the systematic destruction of the magii’ri Warriors, the enforcers of the laws known universally as the Code. Chaos ensued and from that rose a new rank of Warrior, battle hardened and bitter, who fought to preserve what was left of their country. Among those is a fifth generation Warrior named Luke Graywullf. Allied with a loyal Wizard named Mathias Bulwyn and aided at times by the Dark Wizard Lynch, they struggle with the uneasy decision to create the Dragonspawn to restore order and root out the evil in Norland once and for all.

CHAPTER ONE

Luke dropped to his knees as the enormity of the events on the Isle struck him like a giant hammer. The Black Queen Mordant was most certainly dead. One devastating bite from the freed rock cat had severed her brain stem and nearly decapitated her. Her army had been decimated by his own insane impulse to blow up the storehouse of black powder, bullets and guns inside the Citadel, which had turned the stone structure into an incredibly effective bomb. The plain above the cliffs was still a smoking ruin where most of Blackhelm’s followers had been obliterated by the crystallized dynamite detonated by Smilin’ Jake in his final, desperate attempt to follow the Code. Blackhelm himself had vanished with Lynch in hot pursuit and now there was no sign of either of them. The woman on the beach had been plucked from the sand by Slagg and carted off to only the gods knew where. It was more than his stunned brain could process.

Son of a bitch, he murmured under his breath. He turned several slow circles to survey the damage. Just like that, what had seemed to be a great adventure at the port in Norland had turned into a disaster beyond imagination. Now Smilin’ Jake, his oldest friend and mentor, was gone. He’d blown himself into pieces so small the coyotes wouldn’t even bother with them. Now what? he said without expecting an answer.

Are you done? Mathias asked.

I reckon not, Luke replied with a heavy sigh. If everything Lynch said is true, this Blackhelm feller is responsible for destroying almost everyone I have ever cared about. And it looks like he got away again.

Maybe, Mathias replied, thinking about Lynch feverishly pursuing his archenemy down the beach. One day he won’t outrun Lynch.

I hope Lynch gets him, but if he don’t, I will. Blackhelm is the reason Smilin’ Jake is dead.

Smilin’ Jake was dying, Mathias informed him. He knew it. He just took as many as he could with him.

What do you mean, he was dying? Luke asked.

The Dark Magic that Lynch used on him chose that time to demand the price for its power, Mathias explained. He was coughing up blood before we got to the top of the cliffs.

Luke thought for a moment. That don’t matter. If it wasn’t for this never ending war he might have lived a long time yet. He gave up his life following the Code , Luke replied. It’s time Blackhelm paid for it.

Mathias considered that. He’s strong, Luke. Him and Lynch have been fighting to a draw for centuries.

One day his luck will run out, Luke responded.

I reckon it don’t matter right now. We have other business to tend to, Mathias said. Like what can we do about that woman Slagg snagged off the beach?

Huh, Luke blurted without thinking. She’s gonna be a Dragon turd by this time tomorrow. And there’s nothing we can do unless you sprout wings and I ride you.

Mathias gave him a weak grin. His own mind was curiously fuzzy with snatches of spells he had never studied floating about. One in particular was hounding him at that moment. It was a transfiguration spell that was completely unfamiliar to him. But somehow he instinctively knew if he got it right, he could, at least temporarily, become another creature he’d had actual physical contact with. Like maybe even a Dragon, he thought. There was one small problem. He didn’t know how to reverse the spell. He shook his head to clear it, and remembered the way the woman had raised her arms as if to welcome Slagg.

I don’t think so, he said. I think she’s a Dragonwitch. And if she is, then she’s safe with Slagg. Safer than us at the moment. He gestured towards the disembarking magii’ri Warriors who had followed them from Norland, all very angry and spoiling for a fight. The few dazed and bloodied soldiers from Mordant’s army who survived the blast were being rapidly cut down by the Warriors as they approached Luke and Mathias.

If you think so. Maybe yer right. Slagg had his chance to squeeze your guts out but he didn’t do it. Maybe he had a change of heart. Luke studied the approaching Warriors for a moment. They look pretty mad, he remarked.

This is not a joke, Mathias replied. "Treason is a hanging offense and stealing a magii’ri warship is definitely treason."

If they ain’t totally blind they’ll see what happened here.

Sure, Mathias agreed, Those who are true to the Light will see it.

Luke gave him a sideways glance. He wondered for a moment exactly what Mathias meant by that comment. Well, we better mosey down and explain ourselves and see what happens, he suggested.

They walked across the beach to meet the magii’ri Warriors with Dobbin and Colin in the lead. When they drew near, Luke automatically bowed his head in respect to his instructor.

Look me in the eyes, Graywullf, Colin commanded. You are no longer a ‘prentice. You are a Warrior. Like I said years ago, you were born to be a Warrior.

Don’t be too hasty, Dobbin warned. Neither of these two have been tested. He looked all around at the destruction. Let’s start with the obvious. Who blew up the Isle of Serpents?

That was me, Luke replied. At least what you can see from here.

Figgers, Colin said with a chuckle. Like I said when I claimed you as a Warrior, yer not too bright. But there’s not an ounce of quit in you.

That’s only what you can see, Mathias interjected. The remains of another army are on the plain above the cliffs, vanquished by Smilin’ Jake.

Vanquished by one man? And where is Smilin’ Jake and the other man who was with you? Dobbin asked.

Smilin’ Jake is dead, Luke answered bitterly. He blew himself and Blackhelm’s half man army all to Hell. But he was loyal to the Code right to the end, same as me and Mathias.

That will be up to the Council to decide, Dobbin replied. I was sent here after traitors who stole a ship. I’ve accounted for three of them. Where is the other man?

Luke grinned, and Mathias was so startled by the similarity to Lynch his eyes widened in amazement.

The man you’re looking for is Lynch and he’s long gone, Luke said with obvious relish.

Lynch, eh? Where did he go? Dobbin said, suddenly all business.

Last we saw he was chasing Timon Blackhelm down the beach, Mathias answered.

Dobbin summoned several of the magii’ri closest to him. Take a handful of men and see if you can pick up the trail of the one who escaped. He half turned then wheeled back. And watch out, this one’s dangerous.

Luke laughed out loud. You’re wastin’ time, Dobbin. You know it’s like trying to catch a handful of smoke. You’ll never catch him, and if your men do catch up to him you’ve sent them to slaughter. Besides, there’s a Hell of a lot more important things to be doing than chasing after Lynch.

Such as? Dobbin demanded.

For one thing, we should be checking on Hudge and all the other refugees who took shelter here during the Revolution.

Dobbin considered that. There are refugees here? Since when?

They’ve been here for years, Luke responded as he and Mathias began to gather weapons.

You two ain’t going anywhere, Dobbin protested. I don’t want you out of my sight until the Council decides what to do with you.

Luke had had enough. Then we’re gonna have an argument, Dobbin. You can’t stop me. He tilted the blade of a captured sword up into the ready position.

Dobbin looked into the glacial blue eyes of the much younger man and saw something there, something cold and dangerous. He saw something totally without mercy and more than a little eager for a fight. Despite his stature as a leader of the magii’ri Warriors and the advantage of his experience, he felt fear clawing up his backbone.

Easy now, Mathias said smoothly as he stepped between Dobbin and Luke. We grew up here. We know the Isle. Can any of your men say the same?

He’s got a point, Colin said.

Dobbin looked into Luke’s expressionless eyes. Alright. You can go with a squad of my men. Colin will lead.

Suits me, Luke said carelessly. Let’s go.

Colin motioned for Luke and Mathias to take point and they began to wind through the rubble of the Citadel. Suddenly Mathias paused. He knelt in the sand and began to dig into the rubble. Eventually he emerged with a tattered canvas knapsack which he quickly slung over one shoulder. Luke gave him a quick nod when he saw it.

Thought I’d lost that forever, Mathias said to Colin.

Lucky find, Colin replied without another thought. Come on. I want to get to the top of the cliffs before nightfall, and since somebody blew up half the Isle there’s not even a wagon trail to follow.

The climb to the top was exhausting but uneventful. When they reached the plain, Colin stopped and let out his breath in a long, slow whistle.

Shee-it, he drawled as he surveyed the damage. There was enough gawddamn half men up here to overrun Norland. I don’t think you boys have anything to worry about from the Council.

Why’s that? Mathias asked.

Fer one thing, I’m on it, Colin replied with a grin. Fer another, any idiot could see you stopped an invasion. The investigation by the Council will just be a formality. You’ll be cleared.

So tell me, Luke asked. Dobbin seems to have it in for me. What’s his problem?

He is actin’ might peculiar, ain’t he? Colin agreed. I reckon we’re gonna have to keep an eye on that boy. He shook his head. Ain’t this a gawddamn mess? I knew Smilin’ Jake fer many a year and a better, more loyal Warrior never lived. I’m mighty sorry he got killed. He sighed. How far is the refugee camp?

The other side of the Isle, Mathias replied.

Let’s make camp. It’s been a Hell of a couple weeks, Colin suggested.

It’s been a Hell of a couple of years, Mathias corrected.

They made a small fire and the magii’ri under Dobbin shared their provisions. After a meal of trail biscuits, hard cheese and hot tea the men bedded down.

We don’t need to keep watch, Colin said. Luke and Smilin’ Jake blew up everything on this side of the isle.

In minutes the men were asleep, but even as Luke’s eyes slipped shut][ he heard or felt Mathias leaving his place by the fire. He waited until his friend was out of the ring of firelight then silently followed him. Mathias only walked out of earshot of the camp before he sat down. Luke caught up to him quickly.

Mathias, he half whispered.

Luke, figured it was you , Mathias responded. I wondered if you’d hear me.

I’m not sure I did, Luke admitted. But I did know you were gone. He sat down beside his friend and noticed the knapsack between Mathias’ legs. That’s Lynch’s pack, he stated.

Yep, Mathias agreed. Let’s have a look at what’s inside.

He reached in and drew out Lynch’s tomahawk. Luke’s eyes glittered when he saw it, but he said nothing and watched Mathias intently. The wicked blade seemed to have no effect on the Wizard, who merely shrugged when he saw it and set it aside. Luke felt himself longing to grasp the handle, to feel the perfect balance and even to experience the sensations of slamming it home into living flesh. He shook his head and steadied himself. Mathias drew out a spare skinning knife, some fishing hooks and line in a leather pouch, a packet of biscuits wrapped in a dirty scrap of cloth and another small pouch filled with tiny glass vials. There seemed to be no end to the items in Lynch’s pack. He pulled out a crossbow and a packet of bolts, a spare shirt and a tattered book bound in leather with a tiny clasp on it. Then he drew out a child’s doll, a sack of marbles, a woman’s hair comb, a belt buckle and a gold tooth. Finally he found a half empty bottle of whiskey, a hard leather ball, and a satchel of tobacco and cigarette papers. Despite its cargo, the bag felt as light as a feather.

But no Book of Runes, Mathias muttered just loud enough for Luke to hear. He actually peered back into Lynch’s bag and dug around some more, seeking some crevice he might have missed. There were more items, each stranger than the last, but no Book.

I need to get me one of those packs, Luke said as he marveled at the amount of plunder it held. What’d you want with that Book? he asked.

There has to be something in it about the Wilding and the Dragonspawn, Mathias stated. "There has to be."

You’re still stuck on making that Dragonspawn?

It’s the only way, Luke, Mathias assured him. I’m betting Lynch actually knows the spell, he’s just worried the Dragonspawn will see him as enemy.

I’m with Jake on that one. I can’t see how you could ever get seed from a bull Dragon anyway.

Lynch could, Mathias said. Him and ol’ Slagg are good buddies.

Speaking of Lynch, Luke began, I think I can still feel him.

Mathias swiveled to look Luke in the eye. You feel him too?

Yep. Son of a bitch. He ain’t inside me, is he? Luke asked. Because if he’s inside me I don’t think I could stand that.

No, he ain’t inside you, Mathias assured him. Well, sort of, but not exactly. Anyway, how do you feel him?

Whew! Luke exclaimed with obvious relief. That’s been bothering me ever since I realized it was like Lynch was still standing right beside me, givin’ me directions, sort of. He thought for a long moment. I can’t hardly explain it, he finally said. My Pa and Jake taught me a lot, but I know things that I can’t remember anyone ever teaching me. Things I shouldn’t know.

Like what? Mathias asked. Magic?

No, not Magic, Luke paused as he stared out where the moonlight gleamed on the horizon. Crazy stuff. Like I know your left leg is a shade weaker than your right so if we were fighting I’d drive you to your left. I looked at Dobbin today and I knew I’m faster and stronger than him. He wouldn’t last two minutes against me. Colin can’t block as good with his right arm, he’s got a hitch in his shoulder. Every man I meet, I can look at him and tell you his weakness. Sitting here right now I heard your heartbeat speed up. I know how to repel a larger force, how to flank an army with mine, how to sail a ship and maneuver in a dogfight at sea. How do I know all this?

Mathias responded with one word. Lynch.

"I figgered as much. So he is inside me and I’m stuck with him forever. Luke said in disgust. Damn , that me makes me feel dirty."

Yes and no, Mathias answered. "Lynch ain’t actually inside you. But he did something to us in the desert and it’s coming to life now. I feel him too. I know spells of both the Light and the Dark that the magii’ri simply don’t teach. Only Lynch could have taught me those things, same as he taught you all about warcraft."

Do you think he made it?’ Luke asked. Did he actually get off the Isle?"

Yep. I’m sure of it. What does your gut tell you? Mathias responded.

I reckon he’s alive. Luke paused. So my Pa, Jake, Ox and Bill are all dead and Lynch is still runnin’ free. It ain’t right, he stated coldly. He’s charmed.

He ain’t charmed, Mathias assured him. He’s cursed. He’s mostly dead inside but he’s forced to walk the World with the rest of us.

"That’s just it, he always walks away. Mathias, you know we should both be dead right now. It was just pure, dumb luck that we survived. But Lynch always makes it. At the end of times there’ll be coyotes and there’ll be Lynch. Everything else will be nothin’ but dust."

I reckon so, Mathias replied. And yes, we were extremely lucky. You almost blew up the Isle of Serpents and both of us with it.

Luke smiled. That was one hell of an explosion, wasn’t it? He suddenly sobered again. I wonder what happened to Hudge and the others.

We’ll find out in the morning, Mathias answered. I’m going after the girl, no matter what happens with Dobbin. You know that don’t you?

I figgered as much, Luke replied. You do what you have to do. I saw the way you looked at that girl when Slagg swooped down on her. He grinned. You’re smitten, that’s for certain. His grin disappeared and even in the pale moonlight it was obvious that his expression darkened. As for me, I got other plans. Blackhelm’s trail don’t run with hers and I’m gonna hunt him down. He has to pay for what he’s done.

Mathias stared into the distance, rubbing a hand over his face. He started to speak, stopped, then started again. Timon. His full name is Timon Blackhelm. Now how do I know that?

Whatever, Luke responded, oblivious to the importance of knowing his enemy’s true name.

Mathias filed the name away for future use. So this is it? The end of the trail I mean. You and me, we been through a lot together. If it weren’t for you, me and Mariel might not even be here, he said. Truth be told, I think of you as my brother and there’s nothing more sacred to a Warrior than that. Family is more important than anything.

I reckon so, Luke agreed. We might as well be brothers. After all, we’re closer than most.

Yep. Your ancestors had a ritual that Lynch told me about to make two men become brothers. Blood brothers, they called it. You up for it?

Depends on the ritual, I reckon, Luke replied. So long as there ain’t no huggin’ or kissin’ on each other I reckon I could do it.

Mathias laughed quietly. No, there’s none of that. We nick our palms just enough to bleed then shake hands. Our blood mingles, I say a few words and that’s it. Then we’re blood brothers and as brothers we always got the other ones’ back.

That’s it?

Yep, Mathias answered.

I’m game Luke said. But you might want to reconsider. It sure seems like almost everyone close to me ends up dyin’ in a bad way.

It’s not because of you, Mathias assured him. He drew his knife and cut a nick in the palm of his right hand.

Luke shrugged and did the same. It’s your funeral.

They clasped hands as Mathias chanted a few words in a low singsong voice, too low for Luke to make them out and in a tongue that was completely foreign to him. He felt a surge of warmth from his right hand followed by a tingling sensation that coursed through his entire body. Then Mathias released his hand and stepped back.

Brothers forever, he said.

Brothers, Luke agreed.

I mean it, Luke. Brothers stand by each other no matter what comes.

Luke looked him square in the eyes. I’ll back you up ‘til I draw my last breath, he swore. If you get in trouble, all you need to do is get word to me and I’ll come runnin’.

What’s all the yammering out here? Colin’s voice surprised both of the younger men as his huge shadow loomed up in the moonlight.

Dammit! Luke exclaimed. Don’t be sneaking up on me like that! You move mighty quiet for such a big man.

I got lots of practice in Richfeld, Colin said with a grin.

Glass flashed in the moonlight followed by the sound of a cork being pulled from a bottle. Colin raised it to his lips then passed it to Luke.

Take a snort, he said. We got some talking to do.

Luke took a swallow and coughed a little as the fiery liquid hit his throat. He passed the bottle to Mathias who also drank from it. Luke felt a slow pleasant glow expanding from his belly.

Ain’t this a Hell of a mess? Colin said as he took the bottle back and tipped it up again. He swallowed noisily and tipped the bottle to let a splash drop to the ground. That one’s fer you, Jake, he said, then he drove the cork home with the heel of his hand. Don’t get me wrong, you boys took a big bite out of the enemies of Norland today. But it’s gonna take years to undo the damage Marsten started. He pinned his eyes on Luke. What was in the Citadel?

Gunpowder, giant powder, guns, bullets, loaded ammunition. Enough to start a war, Luke answered.

Figgers, Colin sighed. We could have used those guns. But, you did what needed to be done, I reckon. He paused. I’m sure you two realize now that not every gun in the World has been destroyed. He stopped again to let that statement take effect. Yep. That means those who can use ‘em are gonna seek them out, and if some poor clodhopper finds a gun and he can’t use it somebody’s gonna come along and take it from him. Colin spat and took another drink. He didn’t pass the bottle. That little fairy Marsten practically guaranteed that there will be a whole generation of gunhands evolving in Norland.

Luke considered that. They won’t all be bad, Colin.

No, they won’t, Colin agreed. But some of them will be pure poison. I suggest you both follow up on any rumor of guns that survived and arm yourselves. He glanced around. "That brings me to another subject. All of the guns in Norland most certainly were not destroyed. I know because I had a hand in hiding a wagon train loaded with them." He paused to let that sink in.

You hid an entire wagon train loaded with guns? Luke asked incredulously.

Guns and ammunition, Colin corrected him. I had a hand in it, yes. Then, right when we were all set to move out, I got bucked off a horse. Broke my leg, so I was laid up. That wagon train got hit by desperados and disappeared.

So you don’t know where the guns are, Mathias stated.

Yep, Colin answered. That’s right. And when word gets out, which it will, every outlaw and hardcase in Norland will be searching for those guns.

We need to find them first, Luke said.

We do, Colin agreed. Which is exactly what I would have been doing, but I had to drop everything to chase off after a Dark Wizard , a rogue Warrior and a couple of pissant ‘prentices. He grinned to soften the sarcasm.

I’ll help you find them, Luke promised. As soon as we check on Hudge.

And you, Wizard? Colin asked Mathias.

Mathias squirmed in discomfort. I, ah, have something else I need to do, he said uncertainly.

He’s going after a woman he thinks is a Dragonwitch, Luke explained. Slagg took her.

Took her? Colin asked. He didn’t kill her?

No.

Then by all means, go after her, Colin agreed. If she is a Dragonwitch, she could be a powerful ally. She may even know the actual spell we need to create the Dragonspawn. Luke and I will go back to Norland and find those guns. He heaved his great bulk up into a standing position.

Hold on a minute, Luke said. I know what the Dragonspawn is, but I don’t understand why you two are so determined to make one. What can he do that we can’t?

Colin shrugged and nodded to Mathias. Tell him about the Dragonspawn.

The Dragonspawn is simply the most powerful Warrior in the known World, Mathias began. "He will have unnatural strength, speed and agility as well as far superior eyesight and an uncanny sixth sense about the position of things around him. That last asset gives him the upper hand in almost any fight against amazing odds, because he knows where his enemies are at all times. He can withstand wounds that would fell a mortal man and heal in an extremely short time. The only way to kill the Dragonspawn is to tear his heart from his chest or decapitate him. But the most valuable ability he will have is the ability to lead and inspire his men, who will be loyal to him to the death. His inspiration will enable those Warriors to achieve feats never before possible."

Sounds almost like a god, Luke remarked.

Except he is mortal, Mathias replied. He paused. Also, we really don’t know what goes on in a Dragon’s mind, so we don’t know every detail about the Dragonspawn.

So you don’t even know if he will be true to the Light, Luke accused. Yet you think he’s our only hope.

Judging by the armies Timon can raise and his own ability, I have to say yes, Colin replied. But actually making the decision to create such a being is senseless until we have everything we need. He turned back to Mathias. Find the girl. I’m convinced more than ever that we desperately need her. He headed back to the camp.

When he had left, Mathias gathered up all of Lynch’s possessions and stowed them back in the pack. As he picked up the tomahawk, Luke stopped him.

Can I have that? Just until Lynch shows up, he assured Mathias.

Mathias shrugged. Take it.

Luke nonchalantly grasped the handle. The effect was immediate. The tomahawk felt melded with his hand and strength coursed through him. For a split second he was transported through time to the cave where he had fought the Were Demons to free Lynch. He felt the enchanted blade slicing through flesh and bone and smelled the acrid stench of spilled Demon blood. With no small effort he slid the weapon under his belt and returned to the camp.

The magii’ri Warriors reached the far side of the Isle before midafternoon the next day. Several columns of smoke led them to the refugee’s camp where they were challenged by sentries. After reassuring them they were not enemies they were ushered into the camp where Hudge greeted them with obvious relief. The refugee camp was temporary and lacking the comforts of a more permanent site, but to the exhausted magii’ri it seemed like paradise. They were given the choicest seats near the fire and provided with simple but ample food and drink. They explained the events on the Isle between bites of smoked fish and swallows of weak beer brewed by Hudge. At the end of the tale Hudge nodded with a satisfied smile.

That’ll send them packing with their tails between their legs, he said.

Away from here for sure, Colin agreed. The Isle will be a haven once again. But me and the boys have a duty to follow the Code. We have to get back to Norland and take anyone here who wishes to go back with us.

Why would we go back? Hudge asked. To be taxed until our backs break? We live free here, beholden to no one.

I won’t argue that, Colin conceded. "But we are magii’ri, sworn to the Code. We have to find a way back now that we know you are safe."

I might be able to help you with that, Hudge offered. Come down to the bay with me.

They followed a narrow footpath through the bluffs to overlook the bay. It was an idyllic day with the sun sparkling on the clear blue water. And there, floating serenely with the waves lapping soothingly against her bow, was a schooner.

Where in the hell did you get a boat? Colin asked in disbelief.

Actually, I believe it’s called a ship, Hudge replied. And it was the damnedest thing. One day it was just there, drifting in the bay. How it didn’t get bashed to pieces I’ll never know.

Magic, Luke muttered under his breath.

Maybe, Hudge agreed. We boarded her and I guarantee it is completely safe. Shoot, sometimes the kids camp out on the deck since we anchored her.

It still had to be magic, Luke said. I hate magic.

Children camp out on the deck, Luke, Mathias chided. It can’t be bad magic.

You’d loan the boat to us? Colin asked.

The ship, yes, I’d let you use her to get back to Norland. On one condition. After you get there, you let anyone who wants to come here use the ship to get back.

Deal, Colin agreed. He engulfed Hudge’s hand in his own giant paw.

Later, after stocking the ship with fresh water and a meager store of provisions, the Warriors joined the refugees around the fire. Someone brought out a fiddle and the jug was passed and soon the younger people started dancing. Luke and Mathias sat in the back watching curiously.

Come on, Hudge said, motioning them to the front near the fire. You notched a victory in this battle that will be sung about for generations. Celebrate a little. Have some fun!

He clambered off, tipsy on his own brew. Luke and Mathias exchanged glances, then returned to the rear of the crowd. They had only just sat down when a wiry young man with a wild shock of blond hair approached. A pretty woman clung to his arm.

You don’t know me, the young man began.

You should know me, the woman interrupted. I’m Elizabeth, Hudge’s oldest daughter and you better stand and give me a hug, Luke Graywullf.

Startled, Luke lunged awkwardly to his feet and gave her a bashful hug.

Elizabeth. It’s been a long time.

Too long. Luke, this is my husband, Nick. He knew your father, Elizabeth said.

I met him years ago, here on the Isle, Nick corrected. He was a good man.

Luke nodded as he shook Nick’s hand.

Anyway, Nick continued. I wanted to give this to you.

He offered Luke a bundle wrapped in an oil stained scrap of blanket. Luke took it and was momentarily surprised by the weight. He unwrapped it and caught the sheen of burnished steel in the moonlight.

Is this what I think it is? he asked.

"It’s a magii’ri pistol, Nick answered. I had no right to do it and I am sorry. But when I was a boy right after your Pa left I sneaked into the Citadel and stole that pistol. I only took it because I thought it was beautiful. It ain’t rightly mine and I want you to have it."

Luke finished unwrapping it and examined it in the moonlight. The sandalwood grips were smooth as satin. The metal work was unmarred and perfectly blued, and when he cocked the hammer it glided into position with a satisfying click.

Do you realize what this means? Mathias asked.

Luke and Nick shrugged.

"He has to be magii’ri. Only a Trueblood magii’ri could enter the Citadel." Mathias finished.

Luke unrolled the rigging, which smelled strongly of leather and gun oil. Five stubby cartridges filled the loops closest to the buckle. He slung it around his hips and buckled it then dropped the pistol into the holster. The smooth wooden butt hung at the perfect height, immediately below his right hand. An unusual feeling engulfed him. With a start he realized that for the first time in his life he actually felt whole. Without conscious thought, he drew. One moment he stood relaxed. The next his hand was filled with steel. No one had even seen him move.

Gawddamn, Nick said reverently.

Luke was suddenly aware that the party had stopped. Hudge and Colin were staring at him, indeed it seemed that most of the refugees were staring in open mouthed amazement. A slow grin crept across Colin’s face. He clapped a giant hand across Hudge’s shoulders.

Did ya see that? he whispered. Did ya? Faster than a gawddamn biter snake. She-it. I thought I was fast enough but he’d beat me while eatin’ a chicken leg. He chuckled. Any desperadoes on Timon’s payroll better draw their time.

Colin suddenly felt good.

Come on, youngsters, he said, full of energy. Let’s set sail.

Luke shook Nick’s hand and thanked him for his gift. They said their goodbyes quickly and in minutes they had the ship pointed out to the open sea. The voyage was started smoothly. It seemed to Luke the ship almost seemed eager to be gliding on the waves once again. Once they were out of sight of land and had their course set, Colin lashed the wheel and sat under the glow of a lantern. He reached into an inner pocket of his duster and produced an oily rag and a small tin bottle of oil.

Here, he offered the items to Luke. remember everything I taught you about caring for a weapon. The salt air is not good for the metal parts. You need these more than I do. He paused, then reached into another pocket. He handed Luke one cartridge tipped with a hollow point bullet. This bullet was cast for me by a Wizard. He put countless spells on it and guaranteed me that it will bring down anything, and I do mean anything. Use it only when all hope is gone.

Luke took it and slipped it into a loop on the right hand side of his buckle.

Remember, Colin continued. A bullet can drop a man, whether he’s a Warrior or a Wizard or a common man. Bullets don’t care, so make sure of your target before you squeeze the trigger. Now, Wizard Mathias, tell us of this prophecy called the Wilding.

Mathias thought for a moment. It’s not really a prophecy. It’s actually a curse, triggered by a powerful Wizard or a group of Wizards. Once started, the World as we know it will slowly return to the way things were many years ago. Creatures not seen in centuries will roam the World at will, and men will become mindless savages once again. Civilizations will crumble. Eventually, it is most likely that mankind will kill each other off completely.

And how can it be stopped? Luke asked.

The most obvious way, as with most spells, is to kill the Wizards responsible. Otherwise, the Wizard who triggered it can reverse it. Those are the only two ways to stop the Wilding, Mathias answered.

You two know any Wizards strong enough to trigger such a thing? Colin asked innocently.

Luke sighed. Lynch. He said regretfully.

You don’t know that, Mathias argued.

He could do it, Luke replied. You know he could.

If he could do it, then he could reverse it, Mathias pointed out.

So here’s what we face, Colin said matter of factly. The Wilding must be stopped. For that we need Lynch. We need the Dragonwitch to help create the Dragonspawn, and we have to find a wagon train loaded with guns before they fall into the hands of desperadoes. Mathias, you obviously have a powerful interest in the Dragonwitch. When we get to Norland, you go after her. I’ll try to track Lynch down. Luke, you go after the guns.

The younger magii’ri nodded their assent. Luke started to speak, but as he did the wheel began to creak and groan and the rope began popping with a terrible strain. It parted with a sound like a rifle shot and the ship swung violently to the East. Colin lunged for the wheel but it was ripped from his hands as if he were a child. As soon as the ship was headed due East the wheel stopped spinning and they resumed skimming smoothly over the waves. Luke tried to adjust the wheel but it wouldn’t budge. He turned to Mathias.

Luke said one word. Magic.

Drop the sails, Colin ordered.

In moments the sails were furled, but the ship didn’t slow down. In fact, it seemed to pick up speed, hurtling towards the faint glow on the eastern horizon. As the sun rose the ship’s speed increased even more until they were barely skipping over the surface of the sea.

Mathias! Luke shouted into the wind that whipped his hair back from his face. This would be a good time to figger out how to stop whatever magic this is!

I’m doing my best! Mathias shouted back. In his mind’s eye he actually saw a list of spells that might possibly be used to such an effect. But none seemed to fit. And he had no idea how he knew so many different spells. In desperation he began to rattle off spells at random.

The ship sailed onward, steadily picking up speed until the mast was bent backwards like a drawn bow and the main timbers groaned from the strain. The men on board had no choice but to lash themselves to structures on the deck, not trusting the mast to hold much longer. The wind whistled in their ears and they were soaked by spray from the bow. The horizon to the east grew curiously dim. Soon they saw a gray mist, lit by an occasional bolt of lightning.

Mathias! Luke shouted again. What the Hell is that?

Mathias had no answer. He could only grimace in dread. Colin stared stoically ahead with his jaw firmly clenched. They entered the mist and the sea abruptly ended. Then they were falling. The ship plunged straight downward leaving the men onboard to stare in slack jawed terror into an unfathomable abyss. All three had no choice but to close their eyes and wait for the inevitable impact.

After what seemed like an eternity, the ship sliced like a knife into foamy sea water, plowed through it in seconds, and popped out to float like a cork on the calm surface. The magii’ri sputtered and spat out water and hurriedly untied themselves. There was no need for discussion or orders. They needed to get off that ship. As one they ran to a lifeboat and dropped it. Through it all the ship bobbed serenely. They took one look to see a shoreline only a few hundred feet away, then rowed like madmen to reach it. As they reached the safety of the sand, Luke looked accusingly at Mathias.

It’s safe enough for children to camp out on, he reminded Mathias.

How was I to know it was enchanted? Mathias retorted.

You’re a Wizard, Luke reminded him, You should know these things.

Never mind. We made it through, Colin interrupted. He gestured inland. There’s a town. Let’s figger out where we are.

The town streets were hard packed sand which made no sound as they walked among the buildings. They came to a livery stable with a few bony old horses standing hipshot in the sun.

Duck inside, Colin suggested. Let’s take a minute to size this up.

As they entered, a scrawny older man with a scraggly beard came through the back door. He wore filthy jeans held up by leather suspenders, an undershirt that seemed to be more holes than shirt and shit caked boots. A huge knife that looked too big for his emaciated hands rode on his belt. Tobacco juice stained the corners of his mouth.

Help ya? he asked.

Just lookin’ around, Colin said. Maybe you’d rent a couple horses?

Sure, the hostler said. Cost ya ten coppers a day and like you know, you gotta be back before sundown.

Colin nodded. We might do that, Mr.?

Name’s Loomis. You should remember that from orientation, Loomis said.

Colin nodded again. Sure, he agreed, even though he had no idea what the liveryman was talking about. He fished around in his pocket and came up with a silver coin which he casually rolled from finger to finger. A man in your position must see a lot.

Loomis nodded, his eyes on the coin.

Like maybe a wagon train, loaded heavy? Colin suggested.

Loomis’ expression went slack. His eyes darted over Mathias shoulder, then back to Colin.

Nope. Nothin’ like that around here. You must be really new here.

Yep, Colin agreed. Forget I asked.

They turned to leave when a boy about twelve years old emerged soundlessly from the back of the stable.

Hey, boy, Luke said with a nod. What’s your name?

Maybe it’s Stewart, or Walter. Could be Petie or Billy Bob, He answered.

Shut yer yap, Loomis ordered. Don’t pay no attention to him. He’s retarded.

My name’s Jeb and I ain’t retarded, the boy stated.

Shaddap, Loomis threatened. or I’ll whomp you with a plow line.

Whoa there, Luke said. He spoke quietly but there was steel in his voice.

He’s mine. I can beat him if I want, Loomis asserted.

He’s your son? Colin asked.

Hell no, Jeb interjected. That pusbag ain’t my Pa.

Loomis backhanded him across the side of his head and knocked him sprawling. Jeb rolled to his side, cupping his ear. He spat out a mouthful of straw and manure.

I seen ‘em, he said defiantly. But not here.

I told you to shut yer mouth, Loomis said, his voice rising. He stepped towards the boy and cocked back his fist. Luke lunged forward and caught Loomis’ hand in a steel trap grip.

That’s enough, he said quietly.

Loomis grunted an obscenity and drew his knife with his free hand. Colin rolled his eyes and inspected the dirt under his fingernails. Mathias took a short step forward but was blocked by Colin’s hand on his chest. Luke kept his hold on the liveryman’s wrist and chopped down hard on his knife arm. Loomis dropped his knife and Luke spun him face first into a solid oak post. Loomis bounced off it and Luke punched him four times in the ribs, then dropped him to the floor with a solid blow to the side of his head. The liveryman lay unmoving in a crumpled heap.

Hey, Luke said as he looked around. Where did that boy go?

All three spun around, but Jeb was gone.

Let’s go find him, Colin suggested. He knows something about that wagon train.

They emerged from the stable and walked out into the bright sunlight. A wailing, shrieking sound came from the far end of the street. As they drew nearer and the sound grew louder it became clear it was a foreign type of music, something none of them had ever heard before. Finally, they drew abreast of a building with bat wing doors and greasy windows. Luke took a silent step onto the boardwalk and glanced inside.

Well? Colin asked in a low voice.

The kid’s in there, Luke replied. "Along with a guy who is either playing an instrument or being attacked by a giant spider. The place is full, but I didn’t see anybody spoiling for a fight."

Colin shrugged, leaped onto the boardwalk and kicked the doors right off the hinges. The place fell silent for a few seconds.

Gawddammit, the man behind the bar yelled. You owe me a new set of doors!

Everyone in the place laughed uproariously, the bagpipe player resumed and someone started singing. The magii’ri exchanged glances and walked inside.

The saloon was filled with every manner of customer. A knight in full armor sat by himself at one end of the bar. One table was occupied by an enormously fat man who ate with gusto from platters piled high with every type of delicacy known to man. The second floor balcony was lined with saloon girls. At another table a man in a three piece suit sat nursing a tumbler of bourbon. A woman in an apron glided in from the back carrying a cooling board loaded with pies. Luke’s stomach growled loudly. And finally, in the farthest corner sat Jeb and a saloon girl at a table big enough for at least eight people. Luke walked up to Jeb.

Mind if we sit? he asked.

Suit yerself, Jeb said with a shrug.

They sat, and the bartender hurried over carrying a bottle.

What’ll you have?

Whiskey all around for us, Colin answered.

The bartender grabbed three glasses from the bar and returned. He filled the glasses full, then turned to the saloon girl.

More wine, Daisy?

She nodded and he filled her glass from the same bottle. Sweet red wine flowed out. Then he upended the bottle over a schooner in front of Jeb and filled it with foaming dark beer. Luke sipped the amber liquid in his glass. It was the smoothest whiskey he’d ever tasted.

I need to get me one of those bottles, Colin remarked.

The bartender laughed. This is the only one and it only pours here.

He’s a mite young to be drinking beer, ain’t he? Mathias asked.

Well, the bartender replied with a broad wink, it ain’t like he’s gonna get any older.

What do you mean by that? Luke demanded. He rose quickly, nearly knocking over his chair in the process. His right hand hovered at the opening of his duster.

The