The Warrior Sage

By Paul Mills

In a time when sorcery and black magic ruled the will of man, a flame within a long forgotten people was once again ignited.

It is evident from his growing desire to wield a sword that Chaels life as a farmers son will never be enough.

With his sister Taelarae, he makes the long journey to Darvenlure. That is where they meet Iniquitous, a charming sorcerer with the power of black magic and the disposition of pure evil.

When Taelarae goes missing, Chael soon realizes that it is the work of this malevolent sorcerer. Frantically he begins his long quest for the one person he vowed to his father he would keep safe.

Along the way, he comes to realize that he is indeed more than just a farmers son. With battles fought against one adversary more powerful than the last while wielding one of the finest swords ever forged, he rouses within many desolate Sages a desire to survive left dormant for many centuries.

With the help of Kaelon, Telaena, Shan Taen and Gheldorh, his newly made friends on the journey to save his sister, Chael begins to unlock the secret behind the true meaning of the Warrior Sage that will bring about a realization that they are not only friends but share an age old bond of blood. And with this new found awareness they ride to Nay lore, the forbidden home of Iniquitous, to battle for the safe return of Taelarae and discover that she holds the key to their very existence.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Xlibris US
• Release date: Jan 28, 2014
• ISBN: 9781493164523

Book preview

CONTENTS

BOOK I LEGACY

Chapter  1  Emergence

Chapter  2  Darvenlure

Chapter  3  The Rose Of Daenoshaen

Chapter  4  The Quignols

Chapter  5  A Warrior’s Blood

Chapter  6  The Witch’s Sepulchre

RYKENDORH

Chapter  7  The Tyrus Region

Chapter  8  Ebseler

Chapter  9  The Quaboag

Chapter  10  Kaelan

THE JOURNEY TO MAGNAGAR

Chapter  11  Heblun

Chapter  12  The Valley Of The Kreth

Chapter  13  Gwellruhn Forest

THE JOURNEY TO NAY LORE

Chapter  14  The Six Year War

Chapter  15  Paenor

Chapter  16  The Lareden Knight

Chapter  17  The Glass Tablet

BOOK II THE THREE FACES OF THE RING

Chapter  18  Companion

Chapter  19  Meritorious

Chapter  20  Kalath Bog

Chapter  21  Vengeance

Chapter  22  The Griffins

Chapter  23  The Elphinstone Clan

Chapter  24  The Two Faces Of The Ring

CONVERGENCE

Chapter  25  Purpose

Chapter  26  Dalhnar

Chapter  27  Reprisal

Chapter  28  The Twins

Chapter  29  Legerdemain

Chapter  30  Liskein

Chapter  31  The Sorcerer’s Gateway

THE FINAL CHALLENGE

Chapter  32  The Warren

Chapter  33  Wardren’s Lure

Chapter  34  The Naiads

Chapter  35  Necropolis

Chapter  36  Prophesy

Chapter  37  The Warrior Sage

Chapter  38  Reunion

BOOK I

Legacy

CULMINATION

The feel of dew against my cheek revives me. He stands above me, waiting, just beyond striking distance. The warmth of my blood trickling down is distracting for the moment. The sound of his boot securing its footing draws me back, aware now of his readiness to resume the battle.

We are alone yet a familiar call of my name rings out.

I do not react.

I hear the wielding of his sword as it cuts through the air proclaiming its status over mine.

My eyes now open, I struggle to my knees.

He allows me to stand.

My clenched teeth reveal my pain, allowing him further advantage.

He smiles.

My sword, unsteady as I lift my arm and face him, taxing my muscles further as blood now seeps through my sleeve.

Moments pass as the cool air begins to clear my head and I stare unwavering with needed clarity.

My sword is now steady in my grasp, my pain no longer a concern. I secure a footing and wait.

This battle was to be nothing more than a means to an end; a formality in a field where I am unmatched;

Closure.

And although I wait with impatience for the final strike I realize for the first time…

I am afraid.

CHAPTER 1

Emergence

The sound of a hard gallop could be heard coming over the southern hill. A visitor after sundown was rare. It usually accompanied bad news.

Krayden opened the door to his cottage and stepped out into the cool night air. The moon was full, allowing him to see the one approaching at a curious eager pace. Straining his eyes to the southern hill he waited to catch the first glimpse to know if it were friend or foe.

The sound of horse’s hoofs making their way up the far side of the hill grew increasingly louder until he was able to see a figure on horseback.

He was still too far away to recognize who rode under the rays of moonlight and strained his eyes further.

It has begun again! cried the stranger.

He rode hard down the hill.

Krayden smiled upon recognizing the voice of his old friend Larec. Relieved that it was friend and not foe, he relaxed the arm that rested on his sword and waited for him to arrive at his door.

It has begun again! said Larec.

He pulled his horse alongside Krayden.

Hello old friend, smiled Krayden. What has brought you out so far from home this evening?

A message I must deliver to all Sages! he said.

The smile suddenly dropped from Krayden’s face.

What is this message you carry?

He stepped closer.

Hide your young! Their blood is sought!

It was at that moment two young girls stepped out of the cottage to stand beside their father.

There is little time left for them! said Larec. Hide them both before it grows too late!"

He didn’t give Krayden the chance to respond. He merely turned his horse around and galloped off the way he came.

CHAPTER 2

Darvenlure

Chael took a deep breath and pulled again. The sun was beginning to set and he had promised his father to have all the vegetables from the field harvested and washed; this was to be completed by nightfall.

His task was nearly at an end, once this last carrot was out of the ground and on the cart, he could finally wash-up for a well-deserved supper. This carrot, however, was not making it easy. It refused to be defeated. Placing a foot on either side of his new nemesis, he took hold with both hands and pulled as hard as he was able.

He could feel his grasp loosening as he tried to hold on but try as he may, his grip gave way and he ended up squarely on the seat of his pants.

Laughter from both his father and sister rang out in unison as they doubled over at the sight of him lose his hard fought battle to a vegetable.

I do not think you will get the better of that carrot after all, laughed his father Odin! Maybe a good meal will provide you with the necessary strength to overcome your adversary!

I will not let on that you were bested by a single carrot, added his sister Taelarae! Besides, the supper will be cold long before we see that carrot out of the ground!

He was not one to give up on a challenge no matter how trivial, but a warm supper was always better eaten while still warm and the carrot would be waiting when he was done.

The discouraged lad followed his father and sister into their little cottage and after washing up, joined them at the table. They were eating a hearty meal that evening; they had much to celebrate. The harvest was exceptionally good and for the first time, Taelarae would be taking the journey to Darvenlure.

Due to his illness, Odin could not make the long journey. Although he disliked the idea of Chael travelling so far alone it took a month of pleas and promises to finally convince him to allow Taelarae to go.

Since the loss of his wife, Odin’s will to live had steadily decreased. The children, quite young at the time, adapted well to her absence. Odin was not so fortunate. He depended a great deal on her for many things including the strength to meet each coming day. He also didn’t believe the storm she was lost in was to blame for her disappearance. He was sure her fate was brought about by something still unknown to him.

Chael had begun growing into a fine young man; a strong worker and a good farmer. He knew everything there was to know about every kind of vegetable and was never too proud to get arm deep in the soil that grew their livelihood.

But as he grew older, so did he change and began showing signs of wanting more than just a life on the farm. This worried his father as it became more evident he was changing. Odin would often catch his son in the field duelling with a piece of wood, using anything he could find as an opponent. His favourite was their scarecrow; three times Taelarae had to sew its head back on and twice its arms.

Odin began to worry that maybe the life of a farmer hadn’t enough appeal to keep a seventeen year old at home. He had a growing concern that someday his son would leave to discover adventures unable to be found at home.

He knew he couldn’t blame him if one day he, indeed, chose a path different from farming. And it was evident, the way he handled a branch of a tree like it was a sword, that one day playing with a stick and a scarecrow wouldn’t be enough to quench his growing thirst for a more realistic battle.

He adapted quickly to everything he attempted and in just a few months had taught himself to wield his wooden sword like a warrior. Although Odin wouldn’t let on, he was proud of his son. He seemed to not only teach himself how to handle any size stick but in a way not usually seen.

His hard work in the field also helped to chisel out a lean yet strong body with the ability to endure hours of back-breaking physical exertion. He came from humble beginnings and so wore his tattered clothing with pride. Not even the usual stain from the field on his ebony skin or even the odd twig caught in his hair could make him feel any less than those more fortunate.

It was the shout of victory that announced to Odin and Taelarae the reluctant carrot had finally been conquered.

Early the following morning, even before the sun had risen, Chael and Taelarae headed up the path on their donkey drawn vegetable filled cart. Odin stood in the doorway and waved good-bye as they made their way to the main road.

As he watched them ride further away, he felt uneasy about allowing Taelarae to travel to Darvenlure but realized that although she was two years younger than her brother her curiosity for what lay beyond their home was also becoming stronger. He wouldn’t admit to it, but he knew it was just a matter of time before she too craved more than the farm could offer her.

Like her mother, she was headstrong and determined to get what she set her sights on. At such a young age and with little preparation from her father, she took over the daily chores of the household with ease.

With Chael’s constant work in the field and his daily battles with the scarecrow, stitching up holes and tears was nearly an everyday chore. When she wasn’t mending one thing or another she was washing. Working on a farm was a messy life and everything, at some point, got dirty; it was also hungry work and both her brother and father kept her busy over the stove three times a day.

Her duties didn’t end there. Her help was also needed out in the field whenever she had any spare time away from her chores indoors. She actually didn’t mind getting dirty with them, she never wanted to be thought of as a pretty little girl who wore pretty dresses and kept pretty bows in her hair. Time and time again she proved her worth in the field, never quitting until the others were ready to call it a day.

There were times when she would be covered from head to foot in dirt mixed with the weeds she helped pull out of the ground. But after washing up, she was again the prettiest girl in the district.

Just as they neared the bend that would take them out of view, Chael looked back for a final glance. It was at that moment he noticed someone riding hard up to their cottage; stopping alongside their father. Rounding the bend he thought little else of it.

They travelled for a good distance along the main road and the sun had begun to rise when Chael noticed the sound of a horse approaching from behind.

You must turn back! cried out a voice. You must return home!

That is Larec, smiled Chael. I would know his loud voice anywhere.

What could he want at this hour of the day?

She strained her eyes to see him.

He must want company to Darvenlure.

The answer must be no. I could not take his constant chattering, said Taelarae.

Nor could I; I have heard his stories far too many times.

Then what do we do? He will be upon us soon.

Up ahead there is an old path we can cross onto. Father and I stumbled upon it one day. I am anxious to finally see where it leads.

They hurried around the next bend in the road and Chael steered their donkey through what looked to be an overgrowth of trees. There were tree limbs strewn across the ground making it hard to ride across. He struggled to keep the cart from tipping over as they made their way deeper into the thicket. As they listened, they could hear Larec ride past still calling out to them, unable to see where they had ridden onto the old path. By the time they reached it, his calls were too far to hear.

The path took them to a part of the forest Chael knew nothing of. They travelled steady for just over a league before they came across a young man chopping wood. Chael slowed Kao to a halt.

Good morning, he called.

Good morning, answered the young man. I see by your cart that you are on your way to Darvenlure. Would you care for a drink of fresh water before you carry on?

That is very kind of you, said Chael.

He jumped down.

This is a very thirsty trail we have chosen to travel along.

Well you and your wife are welcome to as much as you like.

Oh, we are not married, said Taelarae.

She climbed down from the cart smiling.

I am Taelarae and this is my brother Chael.

Looking over, the young man suddenly realized her beauty.

My name is Valaden, he said.

He held out a ladle filled with water.

I have never before seen such beauty. You remind me of my own sister.

Taelarae had never before been given such a compliment and apart from her father and brother, she herself had never laid eyes on such a handsome and charming man in all her life.

His bronze form stood above six feet tall. His body was broad and muscular and his opened shirt showed his strong chest. His face was distinct as it glistened under the sweat of the afternoon sun but although he smiled pleasantly, a lingering sadness could be seen in his eyes.

This is exceptionally sweet tasting water! remarked Chael.

He swallowed a large mouthful.

I have never before tasted water quite like it.

I draw it from the well that sits to the rear of my home. I believe it comes from an underground stream that runs down from the north; no matter how hot or dry the day, each bucketful comes up fresh and cool to the taste. Whatever ailment I suffer from, a ladle full of this water has me feeling strong again by morning.

My father would enjoy a cup of your water. said Chael. It might even help him take his mind off his pain.

Maybe on your way back you could take some home to him.

Where is your home? asked Taelarae.

She looked about.

I cannot see anything for the trees.

It is not far. It lies directly beyond them…

Then Valaden hesitated before speaking again.

Why have you chosen this path to travel upon today? It is rarely used by anyone for it holds many unseen dangers.

You do not have to worry about us. I carry with me my father’s knife and will deal with any danger that might introduce itself!

"I pray you will not have need of it. For once I too thought I had nothing to fear with my sword by my side.

On a day much like today on this very path, my sister and I were out in search of herbs for a medicine we were creating when a strange little man walked into me. I thought nothing of it as he stared back at me but noticed his strange appearance. I turned to point him out to my sister but to my surprise she was gone, nowhere to be found. I turned back to the little man but he too had vanished.

I searched far and wide but could not find her anywhere. For a year, I traveled the lands in search of her but alas, I never found even a soul who had ever heard her name spoken. Those who took her must have used black magic, for any attempting her abduction with sword alone would easily fall prey to her skills. So now I stay here, never venturing too far and wait for the day when she will return home.

Your journey will soon bring you to the place where I lost her and I warn you to tread carefully while you are there for I fear your sister may be lost to you as well!"

You do not have to worry about us. I will not let my sister out of my sight until we have returned home to our father.

The two finished drinking all they could hold, in fact, they drank so much of the sweet tasting water they felt like they had eaten a full meal. After thanking Valaden for his hospitality, they continued on their journey and while Chael guided Kao down the winding trail, Taelarae looked back at the woodcutter who watched on until they were well out of sight.

As Valaden warned, they soon came to a junction in the road with a sign that read Darvenlure and an arrow pointing toward the other road. It was at that moment Chael heard a rustle in some nearby trees. It was the sound of some sort of animal crying for its mother.

Chael jumped down from the cart and began heading to the trees. At that moment he remembered what Valaden had said and reached back for Taelarae’s hand. With her hand firmly in his, he headed for the sound.

Pushing apart several branches, they looked across at the animal caught in one of the trees’ roots that grew above the ground.

Without letting go of his sister, he leaned forward attempting to help the animal. Just as he managed to free its leg, he felt a sudden pull from his sister’s hand. So strong in fact, he almost lost his grip of her. Looking back, he saw her other arm move as if it had a mind of its own. Taelarae screamed as she felt her arm being pulled by an unseen force.

Chael, realizing something was attacking her, held on with both hands and pulled hard. Suddenly, the force pulling her arm released its grip causing them to fall onto the ground.

Chael got to his feet quickly, his father’s knife in hand and searched with his eyes for anything that might be lurking around for another attack. A rustling of leaves growing steadily fainter told him that the threat, whatever it was, had run away.

It has gone! said Chael.

He lowered his hand to help his sister to her feet.

We are safe for the moment.

What force could grab onto me without showing itself?

I do not know but we will not wait around to find out.

Back on the road Chael hurried Kao on. He wanted to get as far away as possible in case the unseen force returned.

They hadn’t travelled more than a few minutes up the path when the sound of someone drawing near could be heard. Thinking it was the force in pursuit, Chael urged Kao on faster. Away they raced as the sound drew closer. It wasn’t until they heard the distinct sounds of horse’s hoofs approaching that caused them to look back. What they saw was a large horse-drawn carriage.

By the time the carriage had pulled up alongside, they were stopped by the shoulder of the road.

The carriage was remarkable. From top to bottom it was covered in the finest gold and along each contour were line after line of precious gems. The windows were darkened, allowing only a small amount of light inside and the large wheels it sat upon were made from polished metal also adorned with precious gems.

Six stunning thoroughbred horses larger than the two had ever seen, pulled it at lightening speeds. A large beast-like man in tattered leather clothing sat directly behind them with the reins in one hand and a whip, three horse lengths, in the other.

Suddenly, the carriage door opened and a tall stranger stepped out onto the dirt road.

Good afternoon, he said.

He approached with a smile.

He was dressed in the finest clothing imaginable. From his shirt to his trousers to the cloak that covered his body from head to foot were made from the finest fabrics. On his head he wore a hat adorned with rubies and sapphires and on each finger a gem studded ring. In his right hand he carried a cane that stood about waist high entirely black with one large gem stone as its handle.

Good day! said Chael.

I see you are on your way to Darvenlure, said the stranger.

Yes, we hope to make good time on this road.

This road is rarely used. Careful you do not find yourself lost.

That is okay. I have a keen sense of direction.

It was at that moment he shifted his attention to Taelarae.

And who is this lovely girl?

My name is Taelarae.

How delightful!

He made his way around to the other side of their cart to where Taelarae was sitting and after removing his hat, offered his hand up to her in a gesture of good manners.

My name is Iniquitous.

She was delighted by how charming he was, as she allowed him to take her hand in his. He took hold of her hand gently as his smile grew. Suddenly, the smile dropped from Taelarae’s mouth as she quickly pulled her hand back. Leaning toward her brother she turned her face, unable to continue looking at him.

I am truly sorry! said Iniquitous.

He noticed her fear.

I surely did not mean to startle you my dear.

But he already had. Oddly enough, it wasn’t the way he had touched her hand, or even the way he spoke. It was the black-hearted baneful look in his eyes that frightened her; a look that all of his wonderfully captivating features could not disguise.

What is wrong? asked Chael.

He quickly noticed her reaction to Iniquitous.

Let us be on our way now! she said.

She refused to look in his direction.

Chael knew his sister well enough to not need to question her actions and so started Kao off down the road once again without even so much as a glance back.

Iniquitous stood at the side of the road and watched as they rode out of sight; a cold smile darting across his lips as he did.

They arrived in Darvenlure early the next day and quickly found a space to set up in the market square. It was an enormous place, filled from one end to the other with merchants from many regions.

Rows of booths each run by merchants selling an array of merchandise; fabrics, livestock, lamp oil, medicines, literature, footwear and even new inventions were on display for anyone to see. People were pushing and shoving, calling out and passing articles back and forth in such a manner it made poor Taelarae dizzy just to watch. Chael, on the other hand, was quite used to the fast pace of trading and so eagerly took part in the shoving and shouting; always keeping a watchful eye on his sister.

By the end of the day, their cart was empty and their pockets full of money. They had benefited from a day their father would be proud of.

Not wanting to spend any more time in Darvenlure than necessary, they decided to purchase what they needed and start back on the path home. It was during this time that they once again met up with the stranger Iniquitous.

So, we meet again, he said.

He was about to place a kiss on the hand of Taelarae when Chael stepped between them.

We would rather you spend your time meeting those other than ourselves!

Looking up at him Chael saw for the first time the reason for his sister’s apprehension and realized this stranger had the eyes of pure evil.

Then I bid you good day, he said.

He stepped to one side allowing them to pass.

Putting the stranger out of their minds, Chael and Taelarae made their way about Darvenlure, purchasing from different merchants until they had everything on their father’s list. They were just nearing the city limits when they came upon a tavern. The smell of food cooking filled the air and caught their attention. They suddenly realized they hadn’t eaten a morsel of food all day.

The aromas emerging from the tavern were so enticing that they couldn’t fight the urge to stop for a hot meal before continuing on home.

Inside, it was active with many traders ordering food to satisfy their appetites and ale to wash it down before heading back on the road home. Some, more fortunate, had taken a room to avoid travelling after a long day of trading.

Although the tavern was large, there was barely enough room for Chael and Taelarae to squeeze their way to an area to wait for a table to become free. Several more merchants arrived calling out when they found an acquaintance already there.

They stood quietly next to a table occupied by two men toasting their good fortune. By the time they had emptied their mugs for the second time they paid their bill and staggered out into the cool night air. Chael and Taelarae didn’t hesitate to sit in their places and were soon eating a hearty and most appreciated meal.

With their stomachs full and their thirsts quenched, they were ready to pay their bill. With the continuous flow of hungry traders flowing in, their server was run off her feet with demands. Watching her scurry from one table to the next, Chael realized it would be quicker to bring the money to her.

Leaving Taelarae at the table, he pushed his way through the noisy crowd of merchants until he spotted her on the far side of the room. It was at that moment a short odd looking person in a brown hooded cloak bumped into him on his way past.

Chael turned back to look at him and was able to look directly into his face. He was a man but with features like no other the lad had ever seen before. Then the hooded man growled slightly showing his angled teeth before disappearing into the crowd. Thinking him just an odd little man, Chael thought little if anything more of the whole mishap and continued on toward the woman.

He paid her promptly and even left her with a small tip before pushing his way back to their table. But when he arrived he found two merchants seated there.

The lad pushed through the crowd thinking she was most likely waiting out front for him, but found only Kao and the cart in amongst several other horse-drawn carts. After calling out to her and getting no reply, he headed back inside.

He searched the tavern from one corner to the next and asked her whereabouts from anyone who would listen. She was nowhere to be found and no one could remember seeing her. Finally a couple remembered seeing her seated around the table. They looked away for a moment but by the time they turned back, she had disappeared.

Standing by the entrance to the tavern, he continued asking each merchant that passed him until there were none left.

Now empty, he searched the tavern again, even their server who also remembered her, helped search through the rooms above. It was in one of the rooms that Chael met a small child sitting by a window. She was the woman’s daughter who was made to stay in the room while the traders were downstairs.

Kardia, this young man has lost his sister. Have you seen her?

Yes mother.

You have? asked Chael.

He stepped up to her.

She entered this room?

No. I saw her from my window.

Chael looked out through the window. All the other merchants had gone with their horses leaving Kao alone down below.

What was she doing?

She was crying and calling out for you.

Why was she crying?

A Quaboag was pulling her away!

A Quaboag?

His worry turned to anger.

What is a Quaboag?

They are a race of small evil-looking hired thieves usually cloaked from head to foot, answered the woman. For the right price, they will steal anything, including your sister.

Where can I find this Quaboag?

They are very difficult to find but it is known they dwell in a particular region.

Where is this region?

No one knows and no one has ever been able to catch one to ask. That is what makes them such good thieves.

Then how do I find them?

I only know that they do not take what they are not paid for and they do not come cheap. Whoever hired them has more wealth than anyone around here.

If they are known thieves, then why did no one try to apprehend this thief who walked about the tavern amongst several merchants with such ease?

That is because they walk about unseen.

That is absurd, I saw him as plain as the morning sun! Even your daughter laid eyes on him from her window!

That is because they cannot remain invisible to small children who are able to spy them first. In their haste, they must have overlooked the possibility of Kardia staring down from her window. And due to some Quaboag law, the abductor must show himself to someone close to the one he is abducting.

Chael stood still and thought for a moment.

That is why he walked into me in the tavern making sure I saw him!

Yes, he had to show himself to you or he could never have taken your sister.

But he has her now and it will be near impossible for me to track down an invisible thief.

Then Chael thought of Valaden and realized it must have been the same Quaboag who stole away his sister.

Oh, but you have not heard the good news. Once a Quaboag shows himself to you, he must always remain visible to you and you alone!

Then I will track down this Quaboag and find where he has taken my sister!

Chael thanked the woman and her daughter and hurried out to the street.

He travelled around Darvenlure for any sign of the Quaboag, continually calling out for his sister. When the entire city was covered in a blanket of darkness, Chael was no closer to finding her than when he had begun.

Now with a strong need for rest, he decided to find a place to lay his head and in the morning, get a fresh start with the day’s sun as his guide.

He had more than enough money in his pockets to pay for a room for the night, but with so many people in the city, there wasn’t even a cellar with a spare corner let alone a room for him to rest in. He went from inn to inn even offering to pay double its value for a corner in a barn, but there was nowhere left.

Chael guided Kao aimlessly about without any success of finding a warm place to lay his head for the night. Thoughts of his sister scared and confused at the hands of the Quaboag somewhere near or maybe even far away continued to haunt him as time drew on.

As the sound of the wind whistled through the empty streets he realized he was the only one left without shelter. The wind danced past him seemingly far more intense with no other bodies around to slow its pace. Even Kao was beginning to feel the discomfort the night winds had brought.

With the last light going out in a shopkeeper’s window, the moon was now the only source of light left to see by. At that moment Chael felt more alone than he had ever felt before. He hadn’t even his father around to assure him everything would be all right.

The tired lad guided Kao around another corner with the slightest of hope that somewhere there was a place warm enough for him to lay his head. It was at that moment he eyed someone off in the distance. He was still too far away to know who it might be but knew at least someone other than himself was braving the cold.

As he got closer, he realized that the stranger was sitting on a small bale of hay slouched forward, probably to shield off some of the cool winds.

Goodnight, exclaimed Chael.

He pulled up alongside the figure.

I thought it would be daybreak before Kao and I would see another soul.

Slowly, the stranger lifted his head to look at the one speaking and Chael realized he was an old man. His clothing was tattered and mismatched but of good quality. His boots were shin high and well-worn but definitely made from expensive leather and three of his fingers had on rings with the look of rare value.

With one hand he held fast to a leather bound book.

From its thickness Chael could tell it held a great many pages and from the detail put into its design, it was also one of great value. In his other hand he held a little pipe from which he steadily drew from.

I could say the same, replied the stranger.

My name is Chael and this is Kao.

My name has long since been forgotten but for now you may call me Gheldorh.

He drew once more from his pipe.

Are you not cold atop your bale of hay?

I admit I am not. I was so caught up in my pipe, being cold never even crossed my mind.

I wish I were able to concentrate well enough to forget these cool winds tonight.

Concentration is easy once you learn how to overcome distraction.

I wish I could overcome the distraction of this cold night.

That is easy; simply get in out of the cold!

He smiled for the first time.

That very thing has been my task since the sun went down, but there is not as much as a corner in a barn for me to rest my head.

Gheldorh looked down at his book for a brief moment then drew twice from his pipe.

I know of a place where you may be able to rest for the night.

Please tell me where this place lies, said the lad.

He blew into his cupped hands to warm them.

"It is the house of a little old woman a short ride just outside of Darvenlure and then an even shorter walk thereafter. Although I have never met her myself, nor known of any other who has, I have heard tell that she is a very peculiar sort who enjoys beyond all else, her privacy.

Does she never come to Darvenlure?

No never. She has always grown on her little patch of land no less than she requires and no more than she needs.

A flurry of cold winds blew past them and Chael knew that his only choice was to find shelter at this old woman’s house.

Now I cannot assure you that the old woman still lives there or that the house still stands, but if it does and she is there, chances are she will not take kindly to intruders infringing on her privacy. You may get no further than her front door.

However bleak it might be, I still must try. I can end up no worse off than I am now.

Gheldorh drew from his pipe and agreed. He gave the directions to the old woman’s house as best he could and bid the lad well. Chael thanked him and headed out of Darvenlure with only the crescent moon for a guide.

He followed along the trail that began just beyond the city limits and stayed with it until it came to an abrupt end. At that point a dense thicket of trees began. Like Gheldorh had explained, he had to travel the rest of the way on foot and the hundreds of close standing trees showed him why.

Because of their vast numbers, the cold winds were not as fierce and provided suitable shelter for Kao to spend the night.

The distance to the old woman’s house was indeed a short one, but took the lad a great deal of time as he struggled around so many trees in his path.

He no longer had the partial light of the moon for guidance since the trees blocked most of its light with their enormous display of leaves but he managed to notch out a piece of bark every so often with his father’s knife to help guide him back.

Finally he arrived at a little clearing and in the centre of that clearing was a small house made from what Chael could only determine as the logs from the trees that once occupied that space. With no trees to block its rays, the crescent moon was able to shine down on the house making it easy for him to see.

A small porch made from the same logs was attached to the front of the house and a railing of branches ran along its edge. That is where he would gain entrance.

To the side of the house there was what looked to Chael as a small garden. The dim light of the moon didn’t reveal its contents but being a farmer’s son, he recognized a vegetable garden when he saw one.

He remembered Gheldorh’s words about how much the old woman enjoyed her privacy and slowed his steps to her door. He made his first contact onto the bottom step and felt the wood give way slightly under his weight causing it to creak. His next creaked even louder although he took his time and eased his weight onto it. His third step brought him onto the porch and he made his way to the door.

It was made up of several large branches bound together with rope and covered with sap. Chael raised his fist to knock on it, but before he was able to make contact it was thrown open. He was startled by the sudden appearance of the old woman.

What are you doing on my porch? She scowled.

Her movements caused him to step back in surprise.

Who has sent you to spy on me?

I have not come here to spy on you dear madam, he replied.

Although quite repulsed by her appearance he tried to quell the old woman’s fury with good manners and patients.

"I have been travelling all day and into this night. My feet are as tired as my eyes are heavy. I merely seek shelter until dawn when I will bid you thanks and good day.

And why should I offer shelter to the likes of you?

Her eyes began to narrow in an untrusting manner.

I am very tired ma’am. While in Darvenlure, my sister was taken by a Quaboag and I must find her. Now if you would just permit me a night’s rest, I would have the strength necessary to continue my search.

The old woman looked at him sternly then scratched away an itch from her chin.

Are you known by any others in Darvenlure?

No. We are not from here.

Is your sister very beautiful?

She had a slight grin of yellow teeth.

Oh yes ma’am. She is as handsome a woman as the most brilliant of sunsets.

She then looked up toward the top of the doorway as if remembering something.

Does she walk with the heir of a princess?

Yes ma’am. Her strides are so light it is as if she floats on air.

Does she have a voice as beautiful as her features and soothing enough to calm the most cantankerous of beasts?

She was now facing directly at the lad as she snorted then waited unblinking for his answer.

Yes ma’am. She often speaks as though in song.

If this is true, then I have seen your sister, but a thousand night’s rest will not help you find the place where she has gone!

You must tell me where!

He was no longer startled by her repulsive appearance.

Come inside.

She then opened the door wide enough for him to pass.

First you rest child and in the morning I will tell you how to find your sister.

Chael gladly stepped into the old woman’s house. He was happy that not only had he found shelter for the night, but was closer to finding Taelarae.

He looked curiously around the room. It was one like no other he had been in before. The first thing he noticed was the strong musky smell as well as the distinct odour of stale cabbage.

The next thing he noticed were several different dried plant’s leaves hanging from the ceiling. Some he easily recognized; he had often seen the like in and around the farm back home. Some however, he was seeing for the first time.

On a series of shelves against one wall sat a vast number of wooden jars. There were large and small, flat and long and far too many to count at one time. But as many as there were, no two jars were alike.

Along another wall was the fireplace. The lad could feel its warmth