Salagar the Grim: The Gates of Elandeal

By Michael Egley

The Oracle has spoken! Salagar and his companions must ply the treacherous Fast Sea, avoid a civil war raging within the Eternal Kingdom, and brave the long-lost Dwarven tunnels. All to once again secure the artifact that may save Lorathan from the evil machinations of Dae - the Dagors Axe. Accompanied by his best friend Perry, the fiery faery Malina, and the new comrades encountered on the Emerald Islands, Salagar must negotiate a magical storm, enlist the aid of the Eternal King, and hope the Elves and Dwarves arrive in time to stop the Dagor forces that may already be ravaging Lorathan. His exploits herald in the final chapter of the saga, one replete with treacherous wizards, massed armies, magical creatures, and the Gates of Elandeal. Only through quick action and stout companions can Salagar secure the axe, destroy Glawars seal, and stop Dae from realizing her fevered dreams upon Lorathan. Can the heroes secure the axe and destroy the seal before the forces of evil usher in an age of twisted hatred? Only time will tell.

• Language: English
• Publisher: iUniverse
• Release date: May 20, 2015
• ISBN: 9781491768143

Michael Egley

Michael Egley is an author and historian who has studied ancient civilizations for over thirty years. His focus is ancient Greece and Rome. His favorite authors are Jules Verne, J.R.R. Tolkien, and Robert E. Howard. He is a graduate of the University of Wisconsin and currently lives in Europe.

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SALAGAR THE GRIM

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THE GATES OF ELANDEAL

MICHAEL EGLEY

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SALAGAR THE GRIM

THE GATES OF ELANDEAL

Copyright © 2015 Michael Egley.

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced by any means, graphic, electronic, or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, taping or by any information storage retrieval system without the written permission of the publisher except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical articles and reviews.

This is a work of fiction. All of the characters, names, incidents, organizations, and dialogue in this novel are either the products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously.

iUniverse

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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.

Any people depicted in stock imagery provided by Thinkstock are models, and such images are being used for illustrative purposes only.

Certain stock imagery © Thinkstock.

ISBN: 978-1-4917-6813-6 (sc)

ISBN: 978-1-4917-6815-0 (hc)

ISBN: 978-1-4917-6814-3 (e)

Library of Congress Control Number: 2015907390

iUniverse rev. date: 05/12/2015

Contents

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

DEDICATION

To my loving wife, whose dedication through my ever changing ideas made this third book a great ending to the trilogy.

INFORMATION

If you seek more information concerning the tales of Salagar the Grim, the lore of Lorathan, or upcoming books featuring our intrepid hero, please go to www.salagarthegrim.com.

OTHER BOOKS BY MICHAEL EGLEY

The Dagor’s Axe        Book I of the Salagar the Grim Series

The Pirate’s Gold        Book II of the Salagar the Grim Series

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CHAPTER ONE

The Fast Sea

Year 4052 in the Era of Dagnir

Month of Mesc (High Winter)

Galad, Malina groused yet again. You are bucking like a new horse under the bridle. Stay still or I will bat your ear. And what is that horrible smell, almost like burning hair?

I have to admit that I was in a panic. I had just witnessed something more than mere dream, but how and why? What magical portal had opened to let me witness a meeting between evil creatures? Was it Lalaith, Glawar, Ninniach, or the entire bunch? My mind was awhirl with possibilities when a sharp pain stopped all thought.

I told you to stop heaving like a ship in a storm, Malina said, exasperation penetrating our bond. That minor flick to your left ear is only a taste if you do not stop. I have braved giant Orod, ship eating creatures, and a seer that told us facts I would rather not know. The least you could do is lay still so that I can get a bit of rest!

And there my love stood all five fingers of terrible fury. Her purple gossamer wings were rapidly fluttering as she hovered mere inches from my face. Her almond shaped violet eyes were narrowed in anger and her slender figure vibrated with a passion usually only seen when Ninniach waxed. She was about to relay a few more choice words when she paused and sniffed the air.

By Glawar’s magical fist, she exclaimed. I smell magic Salagar. What happened to your hair, it looks as if it has been burned?

I was about to respond when a fist began pounding on the stout oaken door leading to our cabin. With a curse that I had not before heard, Malina flew up into the air and screamed, This had better be important or I am going to give you boils and bad breath to last your miserable life!

The pounding only increased as did Malina’s anger, a seemingly bottomless well swelling up from depths unknown. I could not blame her for we had been through much the past year and all she wished was a night of peace and rest. Before she could fly off and harm the unfortunate man that was relentlessly beating upon our door, I gently seized Malina in an attempt to stem her anger.

My love, I whispered. Do you not register the increased swell of the waves? I do believe there may be a good reason for the interruption. Please cease your ranting and put something on, I do not wish the entire crew to see your beauty.

She gave me a feral look and then her rage was gone, as if a candle had been snuffed by a stout breeze. She looked at me, sniffed, flew over to where she had left her silken shift, and covered herself.

You can let the brute in now Salagar, she said. I feel the change in the waves; we can talk about the stench in the cabin later. And with that she turned back to the bed and dug under the covers, creating a small nest so that she could continue her rest.

Sighing, I stood and hastily placed a shirt over my head, pants on my legs, and struggled into my magically enhanced boots. Thus accoutered, I moved to the door, which still resounded with fists and an occasional curse.

What I found when I finally opened the door was a disheveled Jared, hair plastered to his head and water dripping from his armor. The telltale blade I had given him those many months before, the Dwarven forged magical blade Numol Grum, was strapped to his back. I looked up at the man, who was seven spans in height, and smiled. He had become a close friend and confidant, his keen intellect balanced with a savage glee when in battle. His brown skin stood in contrast to the silver glint of metal surrounding his body, a suite of armor we had found in the late pirate Haggard’s domicile. His expressive brown eyes showed a mixture of fear and something akin to glee.

It is about time someone opened this door, he exclaimed. Something is afoot Salagar and we must prepare. Barlow is worried, more concerned than when we braved the maelstrom. He wishes to see you forthwith.

I see you have had little rest, I responded. You look exhausted Jared. Have you not received a bit of rest since we left the Scythe?

It has only been a few hours since we braved the great barrier and made open water Salagar, he answered. The swells began to increase only a short time ago and I thought to investigate. What with all that has happened in the past couple weeks, sleep eluded me and so I rose to see what was happening.

Alright, let us seek out Barlow and see what has him worried. I said. If he is concerned, then we should all be a bit anxious.

We strode to the poop deck where Barlow stood, near the great wheel, a perplexed look clouding his visage. I could see him conferring with the helmsman, who turned the wheel a bit to starboard and set his feet to hold the new course. Standing next to him was my good friend Perry, the wizard Daedre, and Iskandera. When I reached the deck and turned to Barlow, Perry gave me one of his lopsided grins.

I reckon this Lalaith-blasted sea doesn’t want to give us up just yet, He quipped. Damn swells are so big now a Halfling can’t get a right bit of sleep so I might as well stand here cold and wet instead of in my nice warm cabin.

I looked at my friend and could only smile. He had been a boon companion from the start. He had become a part of my life and I could not think of ever losing his friendship. There he stood, a crooked smile upon his lips, his blue eyes looking out from a lean and tanned face. As usual, his sun-bleached hair was in disarray, sticking up in random tufts.

There is powerful magic afoot, pronounced Daedre, before I could send reply to Perry. That storm cloud ahead is not natural, but was conjured by someone or something. I fear we are running into something that may kill us all.

I looked over at Daedre. She was standing next to Perry with a hand on his shoulder. They had come to an understanding not yet two weeks gone by and were now lovers, or so I surmised. I was happy for my friend and a better companion one could not find. She was a powerful wizard and brave as a wolf protecting her cubs. She was also a most beautiful woman, with intense blue eyes, a heart shaped face framed by long red tresses, and alabaster skin without wrinkle or blemish. Completing the ensemble was a long nose that was a bit crooked from a childhood accident.

Magic you say, I asked. The clouds do seem a bit foreboding, but sorcery? Who would have the power to create such a mass and right in our midst?

I know of no mortal that can conjure such a storm Salagar, she responded. I have delved into the heart of the maelstrom and it is charged with magic, but of what type I cannot say. The taste and smell of it is strange, something I have never before encountered. I will attempt to provide strength to the ship, band the timbers with powerful strands, but it may not be enough to see us through.

At this last statement, her eyes lost focus as she stared far into the distance, directly into the massive cloud formation hovering before us.

I turned to say something to Barlow when a massive lightning bolt struck from the clouds, multiple strands hitting the roiling sea. A few seconds later, a concussive force rippled over the ship, a power wrought of nature that brought forth awe and a bit of consternation, if truth be told. When my eyes finally recovered from the intense light generated from the strike, Daedre was shaking her head in wonder. Her usually confident expression showed cracks, as would a favored dish used one too many times.

I have never witnessed such power before, she exclaimed! Did you notice the color of that strike? It was an intense green, not the usual white or blue. The lightning that just hit the sea was magical, nothing generated by natural processes. We must prepare this ship for something never before encountered.

No blasted storm is gonna sink me ship Daedre, Barlow stated. I think this tub will weather whatever nature or Gods throw at us. We made it through that damn maelstrom and will get through this bastard of a storm I warrant. Now, ya can gawk at those blasted clouds or go about yer business.

So saying he eyed us all, his intense gaze having the desired effect. Daedre raised her staff and began to mutter while Perry stood by, lending a shoulder for her to lean upon as the power drained from her and into the ship. Jared stood beside the helmsman to lend support if needed.

Iskandera walked up to me and asked, What are your orders Captain? The men are battle ready, but will be useless against such magic and might. They can be ready to lend a hand on deck, sail, or helm.

You can get yer blasted men down below and out o’ the way of me men, Barlow grunted. You ain’t gonna break me ship with yer ham-fisted marines. If I need ya, I will give ya a holler!

He turned and began shouting orders at the sailors, who were running to and fro, their energy giving at least a sense of purpose, something to corner the fear that was coiling in all of us.

Avast ya blockheads! He shouted. Reef the mainsail and get them ratlines in order. Where do ya think ya are, on a pleasure barge! You, batten down the blasted hatches and prepare for bad weather. Make sure ya check the forestays are snug and tight, we don’t need the damn mast falling down on our heads. You, set the jib so we got a bit o’ maneuver during the storm. Ya men get moving, this ship ain’t gonna sail itself!

I looked over at Barlow and knew we were in competent hands. He stood there, his lean body rolling with the waves, his blue eyes surveying all about and missing nothing. His long brown hair was tied back with a tangled cloth, his sun-bronzed skin wet from the spray generated by the pounding waves.

I wager this storm is gonna be a bastard Captain, he commented. Ya best find a place to hold onto or ya might go overboard. We won’t be able ta pull ya from the drink in this roiling mess. And with that he turned to the helmsman and barked an order.

I turned to Iskandera, a smile on my face at Barlow’s commentary and said, You better listen to Barlow and get your men secure below decks. We cannot battle this storm with sword and bow. I will send word if we need support from your men.

She looked at me for a few heartbeats, her brown eyes locked with mine own green. She was a striking woman, with dark skin, high cheek bones, and well sculpted lips. Her short brown hair clung to her head, her lean body moving in tune with the rolling ship. She was wearing her customary armor and her twin short swords were buckled at her waist. A few more heartbeats she knuckled her forehead and turned without a word, her back straight and manner aloof. I knew she was offended, for she always wished to be in the thick of it, helping where she could. I also knew she hated to feel helpless, which is what I felt at this moment. I knew there was nothing I could provide to this conflict. The best I could do was to stay out of the sailor’s way. They knew their business and I would lend a hand only when asked. So I stood behind Jared and the helmsman, staring dumbfounded at the approaching storm.

The boiling clouds were massive. They reached up into the darkening sky, almost as if they wished to reach the sisters, Ninniach and Dae, once there to swirl and dance in the firmament until the end of time. An occasional flash of green showed telltale signs of lightning strikes, which seemed to become more frequent the closer we sailed towards the behemoth. The front of the storm was one enormous cloud bank shaped like a closed fist. It was as if some God were offended and meant to bring righteous justice. It was all I could do to not gape and gawk like a country bumpkin visiting the city for the first time. I looked up to Jared and gave him a reassuring smile, which he gave in return. Yet, we both knew death flew on swift wings and we were most likely its prey.

It was then that I felt the familiar weight of Malina on my shoulder.

I cannot sleep with all the tumult and noise Galad, she groused. I see that some type of magical storm is about to upend us, what a fine ending to our tale of daring.

We are not yet done my love, I replied with a bit of bravado. This is a stout ship and Barlow knows sea and wave. Mayhap we shall drive right through this monstrosity and toast of our victory after.

Perhaps, was all she said.

It was then that I saw the wave and all thoughts of survival fled, as would mice scurry away from the barnyard cat. How can I describe nature in all its fury? The wall of water was at least seventy spans in height and opaque. The analytical part of my brain found this downright interesting, that water could be thick enough to deny vision to the other side. It was merely a solid blue in color, with roiling green lances akin to the lightning strikes we were experiencing within the massive cloud formation. Could they be the same? What in Lalaith’s golden halls was happening?

By Dagnir’s red tinged beard, what is that coming our way! exclaimed Barlow. I ain’t never seen it’s like and I been sailing these waters for nigh twenty years.

I looked over at Barlow and my heart sank. If he was flummoxed by all the commotion then what chance did we really have? Not only were we destined to hold court within a monstrous storm, but also to dance with a solid wall of water!

Jared, stop yer gawking and help out Higbert on the wheel, Barlow yelled. Come on lad, get your damn arms around the wheel and hold it steady. We need ta aim straight into that wave or we are gonna go down right quick. If we turn and hit that bastard sideways, we are gonna go down like a ton o’ bricks and nothing will stop us but the muddy bottom!

Jared shook his head and turned to the wheel, taking two of the large spokes in each of his powerful hands. He braced himself, for the ship appeared to want to turn and run before the storm, a sentiment with which I wholeheartedly agreed.

Barlow, I asked, my words scattering from the intense wind almost before the sound could travel. Why do we not turn tail and run from this abnormal storm? It seems the prudent action. Even the ship wishes to turn and run as if all the Dagor from the Mount were close on our heels.

Barlow gave me a piercing look and grimaced, spitting out a bit of salt water that had slapped against his face just the moment before.

Normally that would be the prudent course ta take Captain, but did ya chance ta look astern in the last minute or so?

I saw real fear in Barlow’s eyes for the first time and turned quickly to look out across our stern. What I saw made my jaw drop and fear blossom anew. Another massive thunderhead was giving us a merry chase, the giant fist seeming to wave a greeting as it ground up the sea before it. The only difference that I could discern between the behemoth we were running towards and the cyclopean we were sailing from was the lightning strikes. The bolts charging the air in one were green and the other, a bright and violent shade of red. As I looked more closely, I could make out another wall of water. It was the exact same dimensions, moving inexorably towards us, and menace and mal-intent were writ upon its smooth surface.

Daedre, is this the oracles doing? I asked. Would she deign to destroy us after providing answers to our quest? It does not make sense to me, but I am not a god-like being stitching the past and present upon my loom.

Daedre turned to me and I could readily see the strain of battling the storm apparent on her pale and sweat-draped face. She regarded my question for a few heartbeats and said, I do not believe the oracle would offend so readily. It was her task to give what we requested and so it happened. No, this is something ancient, the taste and texture are familiar but also most foreign. It is difficult to grasp the differences; all I can tell you is that the power coursing through these twin storms is something I have never before encountered. I will tell you true Salagar; the magic swirling within these formations may well spell our doom!

I reckon we ain’t dead yet Daedre, Perry said gamely. We been in a bit of a pickle before and always got out. You just concentrate on your magic and all, I am sure everything will be right peachy come sunup.

I looked at my friend and nodded, even though my thoughts were racing in circles, my very muscles flexing and my instincts looking for escape where there was none. Just as I was turning to Jared to see how he faired, an errant green bolt of lightning coursed overhead and struck the mainmast. I heard Daedre scream and watched her fall to one knee, her staff clattering to the hard wooden deck. All was a brilliant green in color, a hue that ground out any other color or sound. I do believe I lost consciousness for a few heartbeats, since when my eyes could again see the many colors of Lorathan; I was looking up from the deck, where my back rested. I rolled and gained one knee, only to find that almost everyone had been flung to the deck, all except Jared, who clung grimly to the great wheel.

Cursing silently, I gained my feet and staggered over to Daedre. She was still kneeling, Perry whispering to her and attempting to help her up. I grasped her other arm and with our support, brought her up to her full height. I bent and picked up the staff before it could be washed overboard from one of the massive waves that were now pounding against the hull. I placed the oaken staff in her hand and for a moment, I thought all was lost. She did not even attempt to cling to the slender wood, but merely stared fixedly at the approaching wall of water. At the last, she gasped, spit out a mouthful of seawater, and clutched the staff as if it were the last bit of flotsam left from a horrendous wreck, her only lifeline to rescue.

She cursed, swept the seawater from her eyes, and took a more firm stance upon the deck. She raised her staff and the sath stones embedded in the spear point and the base glowed brightly. Daedre stood tall and flexed her shoulders. She looked up at the sky and cried Azanoth! Instantly, a blue light quickly spread out and engulfed the entire ship. I stood in awe as the light flickered for mayhap a few heartbeats and then soaked into the stout wooden timbers. It was then that the shudders coursing through the ship subsided, only the occasional lurch from a large wave battering the bow now felt.

I was about to ask Daedre what she had just then performed when Perry shook his head and pointed to the wheel, where Jared and Higbert were straining. I looked up into Daedre’s eyes and found them empty of all emotion. Her eyes were now as opaque as the wave rushing towards us and just as cold. On occasion, her lips would tremble and a syllable or two would stumble forth into the full light of day. Other than those minor betrayals, she might have been one of those marble statues of the heroes of old, draped in stone for immortality.

I gave Perry a quick smile and ran towards the wheel, the spray from the tumultuous waves pelting me remorselessly.

Move a bit Jared so that I can grasp a spoke and help maintain our course, I grunted. If we turn, we are all dead!

In response, Jared heaved upon the wheel, turning it slightly to the left and shuffled his feet a bit in the same direction, giving me room to gain purchase. I was almost thrown to the ground once my hands closed about the thrumming wood. The tension within that tree produced mechanism was incredible. I could not fathom how Higbert and Jared had kept the beast from spinning freely, giving unbound reign to the violent sea. I was about to comment through gritted teeth when the ship was literally lifted up from the waves. It was as if a child had lifted his toy ship from within the bathtub in play. It was all I could do to keep my footing and station at the wheel. I looked to Jared, who was straining as I and was about to turn back to my task when Higbert let out a scream as his left hand slipped from a spoke. Jared, eyes wild and muscles straining, tried to grasp the man with his right hand, but he was too late. The last I saw of the man was a pale figure gripped in the maelstrom churning about the stern.

The immense pressure exerted upon the rudder and up through the wheel was now doubly compounded and I did not know how long I could stand the strain. I stood aghast as the wheel, seemingly with a mind of its own, began to turn inexorably left. I was about to yell out for support or mayhap in mortal fear when Iskandera launched herself at the spokes, taking Higbert’s place. Her face set and feet braced, she relieved some of the pressure and with a tremendous concerted effort, we were able to right the tiller and keep the ship straight upon its course; straight towards the damnable wave.

We were now mayhap a steading from the wall and all looked to be lost. Yet, we held steady and the ship had not yet succumbed to the ravaging sea. My companions were about and still hale, each one doing their own part. Even Malina, clinging to my shoulder, was infusing me with energy through her own magical talents. It was a balm that kept my hands on the spokes and feet braced to the deck.

Ya ain’t gonna take me ship I tell ya. Barlow screamed, holding his fists up into the air. Alright lads, let’s cleave this bastard wave in half. If ya haven’t tied yerself ta something ya best get on it, we are gonna strike that Dagnir-forsaken wall in a few minutes. And with that, he turned and grasped an errant rope flopping about the wet deck. In mere seconds he was stoutly secured against the railing and bawling orders.

My shoulders were on fire, my hands mere claws with little strength or feeling. My heart pounded and my eyes were streaming from the incessant salt spume scattering about the ship. I looked about and saw my doom. As I braced yet again to hold the wheel in place, a sudden calm came to me, I know not from where. It was as if I had been plunged within a warm pool of water, inviting as a mother’s womb.

I do not believe we are to die here Galad. Malina assured through our bond. Our destiny lies elsewhere. Do not ask how I know, but the knowledge is there, a feeling that all is not yet done. And with that last thought echoing in my mind, we hit the massive wave.

CHAPTER TWO

When I had first spied the wave, I thought it to be at least seventy spans in height, a solid opaque wall of water. What I saw as we started to climb the roiling cliff was a different story altogether. Fear gripped me as I stared into death, for I instantly knew we were going to be subsumed into the white and blue depths, the ship plunging ever deeper into the watery deep. Mayhap we would find a long lost civilization resplendent with kelp forests, reef infused towers, and mermen guards. It was a flight of fancy born of fear and desperation, yet I dallied with the thought for a few more heartbeats, until the wave fully engulfed the Fallen Swan. The cold salt water washing over me rudely wrenched me from my reverie.

By Dagnir’s blood encrusted axe, Jared panted. I do not know how much longer I can hold this damnable wheel. It twists and turns like a large tuna hooked on a stout line!

We must hold Jared, I said through gritted teeth. If we do not keep this ship on the straight and narrow, all is lost. Come man, I have seen you throw men about as if they were mere rag dolls made for children. Keep your grip and I will assuredly keep mine!

A fine tale to tell my friends back at the academy, Iskandera said, a bit of fear and exasperation lacing her words. I was to be the finest blade in all the land, until I met a Halfling and decided to follow him on his madcap adventures. Will it be said Iskandera, the darling of Ralgar’s Academy, died on some wallowing ship on her way home, or will we miraculously come out of this storm, beaten but not yet dead? So saying, she raised her head and laughed a maniacal cackle that raised the hairs upon my neck and made me strain ever harder to maintain our bearing.

We are not yet done my fine friends, I countered. The ship is hail and we have a wizard to boot. Mayhap her power will keep us afloat and without hole or crack. If we can but just stay upon the waves, we will survive to fight another day.

Another monstrous wave engulfed the ship, instantly cutting off further discussion on our chances of survival. It was then that I almost faltered, for the wave pulled at my feet, teased at control, and at the last offered surcease. It was all I could do to keep my grip and stop my boots from sliding out from underneath me. I must admit, with tired muscles, salt encrusted lips, and panting breath, the offer of release was tantalizing. Yet, could I let go and give it all up? Could I doom Malina, who would assuredly follow me to Lalaith’s halls? Would I reach his halls if I merely gave up, or would I be doomed to rest within Dae’s horrific abode, destined for tortures unimaginable?

Do not even think it Galad, Malina interjected. I am giving you all my strength and it will suffice. Keep your damn hands on that wheel and worry about tomorrow when it comes!

Again, a warmth and strength infused my limbs, giving me renewed vigor and purpose. I did not know what Malina was granting, but it was a boon to my spirits and gave my grip a bit more strength and my feet greater purchase. It was when I was at my most ebullient that my spirits were dashed upon the faltering flames of success. What I spied as my vision cleared from the relentless spume scattered about the deck made my breath stop and my heart beat much too fast. We were sailing almost vertical at this point, the Fallen Swan inexorably climbing the massive wave. It was as if we had become mountain climbers, those fools that use rope and metal, clinging like spiders to solid granite, ever a handbreadth from doom. I could not but believe that we would soon begin moving backwards, the angle of our ascent almost straight up. How far could we sail this monstrosity bred of magic and who knows what? Would we run afoul of the many dead Dragons that graced the night sky, their flaming tails giving fair warning of their presence? It was all too much to contemplate, to absorb; we had been through so much and for what, to lie entombed within some watery grave? Would the assorted fish of the Fast Sea nibble until all that was left were bone and a few bits of metal?

Ya bastards best keep yer grip on that damn wheel, Barlow bawled into the tumult. If’n you move just a finger, we are all lost and nothing I do will bring us back!

I looked at Barlow and cursed. I was about to retort when a scream came from Daedre. She screamed again and fell to one knee, her head bowed and staff trembling in her hands. Perry bent down and started to talk to her. I could not hear what he was saying, but I could tell from Daedre’s shaking head that she did not agree. Daedre screamed again and a blue glow wafted up from the timbers and dissipated, as would a fog fleeing the coming sun. All at once, the ship began to shudder and twist. A tortured wrenching sound began to emanate from the very planks I stood upon and I knew that the spell Daedre had been using to protect the ship was gone.

I saw Perry gesticulate and Daedre again shake her head. Perry looked around the ship and all the sailors clinging as best they could. He looked to me and I saw that there was no crooked grin there, no, what I saw was death and nothing more. He nodded to me and turned back to Daedre. To my astonishment, he slapped her. She too seemed astonished, turning her head back and glaring at my friend. Perry screamed something lost to the wind and sea, and again she shook her head. Perry slapped her again, harder this time as her head snapped back from the blow. Perry again screamed something and this time, Daedre nodded, her shoulders slumping in defeat. Satisfied, Perry helped the wizard to her feet and stood next to her, his hand loosely falling onto her hip.

Daedre raised her staff and placed the tip of the crystalline spear against Perry’s forehead. A blue glow began, brightening as Perry began to scream. He tensed; his body becoming rigid, his mouth opening and letting forth a howl, a tortured lament that almost caused me to abandon the wheel and run to my friend’s aid. One look from Barlow stopped my flight and all I could do was watch in frustration as Perry’s screamed continued, for what seemed an eternity, but was most likely only a few heartbeats. The glow faded and Perry slumped to the ground, a lifeless shell moving only with the ship and relentless seawater sloshing about. The only thing that saved his body from the pull of the waves was the stout rope securing him to the railing.

Daedre, now standing tall, raised her staff to the leaden skies and began to chant. I cannot say what she said, what enchantment left those brine encrusted lips, but it had a startling effect. It was not but thirty heartbeats and a green lightning bolt struck full upon her upraised staff. It was followed by two more bolts, each one more powerful than the last. Each time as my eyes recovered from the bright slashes I thought to see Daedre lying lifeless upon the deck, her smoldering garments telltale signs of scorching death. Yet, after each strike, there she stood, standing tall amongst the detritus strewn deck.

After the third strike, Daedre seemed to swell in size, a greenish glow emanating from her staff and eyes. She turned her head up to the sky and screamed a sound that momentarily drowned out all other, a primal scream of rage and power. She turned a full circle, her lips moving quickly, her staff pointing this way and that. The greenish glow increased in intensity, almost too bright to look upon. It was then that I noticed thick green tendrils coursing through the ship, curling about for a few heartbeats before sinking into the tortured wood. It was not until Daedre had finished and sat cradling Perry’s head in her lap that I sensed a change in the noise coming from the ship. No longer was the ship shuddering, the very timbers begging for release. No, the spell that Daedre had cast gave us back some protection and hope flared anew; we may yet survive. That was until we crested the first wave and saw what lay beyond!

There I saw yet another wave, this was higher and much more menacing that the one we has just then crested. To my astonishment, within the mighty wall were a behemoth and a massive snake, battling as if the storm did not exist. They bobbed this way and that, locked in mortal combat; nothing seemed to exist beyond the death of the other. It was such an incongruous sight that I began to laugh. It came out as a tortured gasp at first, but soon became a full throated challenge to wind, sea, and the very Gods themselves.

Come Jared, Iskandera, Barlow, I yelled. If the sea creatures can ignore such a spectacle, then why should we worry? We will beat this Lalaith-cursed storm and be stronger from the doing. So, set your feet, strengthen your grip, and heave to, for we will come through this damn storm. We did not come this far to end at the bottom of the Fast Sea!

Barlow laughed and then cursed as a sail came unfurled. He strode over and bawled a command. Soon after, men swarmed to the sail, their lifelines splayed out behind them, their sure feet and strong grips keeping them aloft amidst the tumultuous sea and madly swaying deck. Jared grinned and squared his shoulders as Iskandera raised her own laugh to the storm.

Galad, I must go to Perry, Malina said, worry writ through her bond. I think he forced Daedre to take of his life essence to fuel her spell. If I do not go to him now and give him sustenance, he may succumb to the draining and die!

So that is what Perry was screaming about, I replied. That damnable Halfling may have saved this ship, but is the cost worth his life? Go, fly to him and save him, you know how dear he is to me!

He is dear to us both my love. she said and the weight of her on my shoulder was gone and with it, her magically induced strength. I gasped as my legs began to quiver and hands tremble. It was all I could do to keep erect and maintain my grip on the wheel. By Lalaith’s golden balls, but how did Jared and Iskandera stand the immense pressure exerted from the powerful seas through the wheel?

Iskandera, we need more men to relieve our station, I said through gritted teeth. If you are as exhausted as I, especially without Malina’s magical aid, we will fail at the last.

I feel the pressure a bit more, commented Jared. Malina must have been sharing her power with all of us. When she left to help Perry, I felt the fatigue leach my strength.

I can bring some stout fellows for relief, Iskandera panted. It will mean leaving the wheel to you while I am gone. Can you maintain course while I am gone?

Ya go get yer men Iskandera, Barlow said as he walked up behind her. I will take me turn at this damnable wheel while ya get the lads. Ya best get a passle of em, so that we can rotate em in and out. I warrant this storm is gonna last a wee bit and we best be prepared.

Iskandera ducked below Barlow’s outstretched arms and quickly went below to find surcease. Barlow grunted as he settled against the wheel, legs braced and face set. It was a boon, what with a new and fresh body fighting the wheel. It gave Jared and me a bit of welcome release.

The bitch is sure rolling, Barlow grunted. I warrant she’s got a bit o’ leg left though. We got maybe five large rollers and the sea should calm a bit.

I hoped that he was right, since we were now climbing the second wave, the one that had brought fear front and center. I looked to my left and saw, mayhap a steading away, the creatures still battling amongst the tumult, completely oblivious to the unnatural storm raging around them. I then looked up and saw our destination, the tip of the cresting wave. The Fallen Swan gamely clawed her way up the massive wave, shaking off wind, current, and relentless pounding. With nary a shudder, she rose higher and higher. I again thought of the long dead Dragons flying about the night sky, their blazing tails giving telltale sign of life beyond death.

Lalaith-blasted storm, I cursed as I spied the horizon from atop our watery mount. Is there no end to these giant waves?

I ain’t never seen nothing like this Captain, Barlow replied through gritted teeth. I can’t see no end to these damnable waves and I ain’t sure how much more the Fallen Swan can take. If it weren’t for Daedre’s magic, I think we would be resting all comfortable like on the seabed.

Just as we started our second descent into the deep troughs created by the gargantuan waves, relief at last came. Nine stout marines weaved, crawled, and struggled up to the poop deck. By the time they were set behind us, they were soaked and salt encrusted.

Take Jared first, I commanded. He has set shoulder to this task the longest. You will then relieve Barlow, he is much more important to the ship’s survival than I.

So it was that I let go of the two spokes that had become my life for more than an hour. It was all I could do to flex my fingers, as they were now prone to a claw like existence, muscles tired and constricted. I looked around and saw that we were almost to the bottom, the ship moving faster than I could ever imagine. I only hoped that the bow would again come up as we plunged into the murky depths, the stout wood and magical aid enough to fight the relentless drag of the sea.

It was an effort to tear my gaze from the coming plunge. Shuddering, I turned and clawed my way to Perry, who still lay in Daedre’s arms, the blue light of healing surrounding his head as Malina set to.

Is there aught I can do to help, I ventured. I cannot but feel helpless in this situation. Come; tell me what I can do to bring Perry from the brink, for he looks as if he were halfway to Lalaith’s golden halls.

Take him up into your arms and bring him to our cabin Salagar, Malina commanded through blue tinged lips. He has lost too much energy and the remorseless cold of the sea does not help. We must get him out of this spume and under some warm blankets or he will surely die!

Fearful for my friend and grateful that I now had a task that might block out the desperation from our current plight, I grasped Perry by the arm and shoulder, slinging him up and onto my back. Disconcerted by his dead weight, it was as if I had just then lifted a sack of good old Hill’s barley upon my back, I staggered towards our cabin. It was a mere twenty spans, but seemed to be twenty steadings, what with the constant roll of the ship and relentless spray clouding eye and mind. It was all I could do but to keep my feet and inch forward, the slackness of Perry’s body preying on my mind and tearing at my heart.

Malina opened our door with a wave of her hand, a blue tinge momentarily coating the handle as it creaked on wet and crusted hinges. I took one last look behind me and saw Daedre sitting forlornly upon the deck, head drooped and shoulders bent. I turned and pushed the door wide, carrying the recumbent figure of my friend over to the bed. There I stripped him of his sodden clothing and placed every blanket we had upon his pale and shaking body.

Tell me truth Malina, will he survive, I asked. I cannot bear to lose Perry, not in this way, without his crooked grin, whooping laugh, and ever-present sling twirling in his hand.

I cannot guarantee his health Galad, Malina responded, fatigue lacing her words. I will provide as much healing as I can and the rest is up to Perry. He is young and strong, that may be enough to bring him through.

What in Lalaith’s gleaming daggers was the fool thinking, I said. Could we not think of naught but his life to save this damnable ship? Is his sacrifice necessary for the quest to continue?

Hid did what was necessary my love, She responded, a tired smile shining forth from our bond. Would you have done less to save those that you love most dearly? I think not.

I stood there wringing my hands, an occasional sigh escaping my lips as Malina’s telltale blue light coursed over Perry. It was all I could do but to shout out in rage, a counterpoint to my impotence. This was something that my daggers or agile mind could not fix. I was undoubtedly helpless and could merely watch as the heartbeats slowly marched on.

Galad, you are irritating me and making it harder for me to help our friend. Malina snapped, bypassing our bond in annoyance. By Glawar’s mighty bow, if you do not leave this cabin immediately, I am going to give you a case of hives that will last a month!

I stormed out. Perry was my most treasured friend and he was dying and she scolded me like a mere school child passing notes! Who was she to dictate terms when it came to Perry? A dash of cold sea spume awakened my senses and chagrin painted my face in shades of red. Yes, I had been a buffoon, standing and gawking like a country farmer at a courtly dance. She required concentration, not a half drowned Halfling shuffling and moaning. So thinking, I moved back to Daedre and stood behind her, one hand on her slim shoulder and the other holding onto the railing for support. If she noticed my presence, she gave no indication, but merely sat in silence. Mayhap she was in torment for what she had been forced into to save the ship and all her companions.

When I looked up and across the bow, I saw that we were again clawing our way up a monstrous wave, the ship again beginning to shudder and buck as the magical shroud Daedre had conjured began to unravel. In fact, I could see a bit of green mist rise up from the ship’s timbers. I looked back and saw that the second set of marines were on station, their hands grasping the wheel’s spokes in desperate concentration. Barlow stood beside them, legs wide-braced, a grim expression chiseled upon his face. Just then, another shudder ran through the ship and the wood began to groan, as if it were being twisted from its natural shape. I thought it was only a matter of time before seams split and the cold onrushing waves brought us down into the murky depths.

Up and up we climbed, the ship screaming in torment as we sailed. I thought that mayhap we would at least make this wave when the ship began to slow. I looked over at Barlow, who began to shout orders, of what I could not readily hear. The helmsmen held grimly on as the ship slowed almost to a crawl and then miraculously, started to slide back down the immense wave. It was then that true fear engulfed me, for if we could not crest this wave, we would undoubtedly be crushed below by the tons of water crashing into the trough below. The ship would be nothing but matchsticks, a toy for children on a rainy night.

Daedre, we need your help once again, I yelled into the tortured night.Come, get to your feet and do something, you are our only salvation!

Daedre turned dead eyes to me and I could see that she had been silently weeping. We locked gazes for a moment and she cast her eyes back onto the deck, her shoulders slumping once again.

Damnable wizard, I screamed, as I put fist to hair and wrenched her head around. You will stand and do something or all was for naught. Perry lies near death and you sit and weep when we could all die in but a moment. No, that will not do Daedre! You will rise and take what you need from me. If anyone is to die this day, let it be me and none other.

I wrenched again, bringing a gasp of pain from Daedre. She turned and I could see a smoldering anger ignite. We locked gazes again and she grinned, a feral grimace that made me step back involuntarily.

You want to save this ship Salagar, she said, a deep cold in her voice I had never before heard. It will most likely mean your death, are you ready to meet Lalaith? Tell me; is the life of two Halflings worth this Dagnir-cursed quest?

Malina will understand, I responded, fear roiling within me. I am responsible for all aboard this ship and upon this quest. If it means my life to save all those about me, then so be it. You best make it quick, for we do not have much time!

She stood, her staff held aloft, and grasped my shoulder with her free hand. She began to chant, her voice rising and falling with the waves and coursing lightning. At first I felt nothing but the cold spume hitting my face and the roll of the groaning deck. Then it was there, a fist clutching my heart and constricting my chest. My lungs began to labor for breath and my legs grew weak and sickly. It was then that Daedre raised her head to the night sky and screamed, her raw throated challenge echoing about the ship and monstrous storm. In response, one, two, and three green incandescent bolts of lightning struck her staff, hitting the sath stone imbedded in the spear tip and running the length of the staff. At the last the power dispersed into the very oak of the beams holding the ship together. I looked at Daedre and felt astonishment and a bit of awe. It was as if she were some goddess from the past, one not yet revealed to Lorathan. She stood taller than I remembered, her staff held aloft, traces of energy flickering along her entire body. Her deep red tresses whipped about in abandon, their tendrils snaking to and fro, sparks of errant lightning flickering. Her blue eyes were now an intense green, brighter even than the crackling bolts had been just a moment before. She looked over to me and our eyes locked yet again, and what I saw was nature in all its raw undiluted power. My last thought was of Malina before I lost consciousness, my mind flowing out and down into a large black void. Was that Lalaith I heard singing?

CHAPTER THREE

I was walking along a well-worn path next to the Slyfoot mansion. Malina rested on my shoulder and Perry was by my side. We were pointing out the fields that dotted the hills about my home. The vision colored, blurred, and when I could again see clearly, all was different. I was in the mansion left me by killing Haggard Crow. The walls sparkled with light, the magical devices affixed by Daedre pushing back the encroaching darkness of night. I sat at the head of an enormous oaken table laden with food. Seated on either side were all my friends and people I had met during my travels about Lorathan. Aellian was there standing tall with wine glass in hand. He opened his mouth to provide a toast, but strangely the sound of Malina came out instead of his smooth baritone. Perplexed, I looked over to Perry, whose voice also sounded like Malina’s. It was then that I realized all the faces about the table were those of Malina, the babble emanating from each mouth that of my dear heart. I suddenly felt a sharp sting upon my cheek and the dining room blurred and focus was again restored.

Wake up you damnable Halfling, I heard Malina yell from across the table. You Glawar-cursed vagabond. I cannot leave you for one minute before you are almost killed! I should leave you this instant!

I again felt a sharp sting upon my cheek and the dining room I had just before enjoyed disappeared and all was darkness. I could still feel the pain on my cheek and a few wet drops speckling my forehead. I began to feel a rocking sensation, as if I were back within my old oaken cradle, my mother singing a Hill’s lullaby. I started to succumb to the soothing song when another sharp pain lanced through my arm and I sat bolt upright, upending Malina, her wings at the last stopping her from falling to the floor.

You blockhead! she screamed. I should peel back your eyelids and blind you with my sword. You almost died out there and this is what I get, flung from you like some mere piece of lint staining your trousers!

I looked at Malina and could not at first register why she was so upset. I was merely resting after a hard day on the ship? Yet, as my brow furrowed and memory flooded, I understood her anger, for I had jeopardized both our lives when I provided energy for Daedre’s spell.

You have nothing to say to me Salagar? Malina all but screamed. Why, I should just pierce your heart now and wing my way to Glawar. So saying, she gave me a look that imparted her anger and much more, then turned and winged her way out of our cabin.

Before the cabin door closed I could see that rain still fell outside and by the movement of the ship, the storm yet raged. I sighed and took stock, touching here and there. I stretched and moved each limb in turn and found nothing out of order. I did have a pounding headache and felt I could devour a cow entire, but other than that, I seemed quite hale. I was about to attempt standing when a stab of pain lanced through my mind and my headache flamed. It was all I could do to maintain consciousness as the cabin reeled and sweat broke out all over my body. I hung my head over the bed in anticipation of more misery when the pain subsided and an unpleasant sensation was replaced; satisfaction coming from Malina through our bond.

Damnable Faery, I thought. Did she not know I sacrificed our lives to save all aboard this ship?

I clung to the thought as I finally rolled out of bed and began a search for my clothes, which I found heaped in a sodden ball in the corner. I turned to one of our chests and found green trousers, blue shirt, and spare boots; a long green hooded cloak finished the ensemble. Spying an apple sitting on the table, I grasped it I as stumbled from the cabin and into the hard driving rain.

You should not be moving about so soon Salagar, Daedre said from beside me. I took a lot of energy from you and it was only through Malina’s healing power that you survived. I think it almost killed both of you in the end. If not for Barlow’s timely intervention, I would have drained every last bit of essence from you.

The cold matter-of-fact way she said it brought chills to my spine and I did not doubt here statement. She would have drained me and howled at the raging storm. In a flash memory of that encounter flooded my mind, the shuddering ship, pelting rain, sea spume, and bright green bolts of lightning. I could just now picture her, a primal power awakened, her lips drawn back, hair flying about wildly and green eyes blazing. It was a wonder Barlow was able to stop her before she completely lost control. It was then that I noticed the bruise upon her jaw and surmised it was not gentle prodding that had ceased her actions.

How fares the ship Daedre? I asked.

We survive as you can see, she replied. We have braved the worst of the storm and now sail towards a deep green bank of fog. Well, it looks like fog but some type of powerful magic created the substance. Fog will do for now until I can discern what is actually happening on this damnable sea.

And Perry, I inquired.

He is weary and rests. she responded with a small catch in her voice. The Ninniach-cursed fool gave and gave. I thought him dead until Malina checked his pulse and detected a beat. I cannot believe she can still flit about with the amount of energy she expended to save you both. The cook screamed bloody murder when Malina alighted and ate an entire roast with helpings.

At this Daedre laughed and grew silent, her eyes moving of their own volition towards her cabin, where Perry most likely rested.

You should go to him Daedre, I encouraged. He will take heart if he sees you when he awakes. He will instantly know that his sacrifice was for naught.

You Halflings are a hardy race, Daedre said laughing. He has been awake for some time now and asking for food as did Malina. I think the cook is beside himself with worry, what with the storm and the demands of only two ship members.

It is a relief to hear of Perry’s condition, I said. I too thought him dead or dying. It seems we will live to fight another day.

Daedre nodded and walked away towards the poop deck instead of her cabin. I was at first surprised, but on second thought, knew why she had decided to stay on deck. Daedre was ever curious and mayhap the fogbank had caught her fancy. If it was indeed of magical construct, she would want to peer, prod, and inspect to get the truth of it I did not doubt.

I looked about the ship and saw that it was no worse for wear. A few ropes had come undone and some railing had been smashed by the ever-present waves, but all-in-all, the Fallen Swan looked hale and ready to brave another storm. I looked over the bowsprit and saw the rolling waves, much smaller than they had been before I had lost consciousness. To my front was the fogbank that Daedre had described. It covered the entire expanse of sea in front and was mayhap a steading away. Green bolts of lightning occasionally flickered within the moribund bank, flashing a garish display of power.

I turned to the poop deck and saw Barlow standing by the wheel. Next to him were Iskandera and Jared. Balancing upon the uppermost spoke was Malina, who looked to be staring out at the cloud bank and gesticulating to Barlow. They were too far away for me to hear what she was saying, but I could tell it was nothing good. Sighing, I pulled the cloak closer about my body to keep out most of the rain and made my way to the ladder and upper deck.

I am truly sorry my love, I began. "Yet, it was the only thing I could do to save the many lives that are enmeshed within mine. Can you not see that all