Iyeri's Blood

By Tyler Gajda

"We made a promise, remember? To save everyone. Back then, we were too young. When we were older, we were too weak. Now? Now there's nothing in my way and nothing left to lose."

A young doctor exploring the world, a prodigy searching for her place in the world, and an orphan hunting for clues about her father's murder. Their journeys converge on a job granted by a mysterious benefactor that will entwine them in a world of subterfuge where the future of the world hangs in the balance.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Tellwell Talent
• Release date: Mar 8, 2023
• ISBN: 9780228884545

Book preview

Part One

Aaron

Chapter One

Everyone gathered around the fire. Aaron, Chris, Terumi, and Loralyn relaxed in its flickering light. They sat in silence in the cold autumn night, a gentle wind blowing cool air across the hilly fields. It was the first night of a weeklong journey from the cursed city of Mysteltainn to the rural town of Tournesol.

Lyn leaned back as she sat, her long blonde hair nearly touching the dirt. With a loud sigh, she broke the silence. This is the first night we’ve spent together, isn’t it?

I think so, Aaron said. He scratched the back of his head. That sounds right, yeah.

Chris sat across from Lyn, staring at the fire instead of her. So long as you don’t count the first night.

I wouldn’t, Terumi said, his voice slow and controlled as always.

I’ve been wondering, Lyn said. How do you all know each other? You don’t seem to have a lot in common.

Chris scoffed. It doesn’t matter.

Hold on, that’s not fair to her, Aaron said. If she’s coming with us she should at least know what’s going on.

Fine then, tell her all about yourself. Chris said.

Actually, that’s a good idea, Terumi said. You haven’t told us what brought you to Randgrith in the first place. We’ve been quite curious all this time.

"Terumi means that he’s been curious," Chris added.

Terumi blinked. Fair enough.

Aaron looked at Loralyn. Well, would you like to hear that part first?

Loralyn smiled warmly at Aaron. I’d love to.

Alright, Aaron said, this all started last winter, in my hometown of Caliburn.

Aaron woke up. The rising sun peaked over the trees behind his window, illuminating his cluttered bedroom. The season’s first snowfall had already settled. The grass glistened from frosted tips and the snowy trees glowed in the morning light. The highway cutting through town was empty, save for the double lines of a carriage that cut through the frost. Caliburn was a highway town in Northwest Garadolt, built just outside the forest of Mistel and the last town before the border to its neighbour Sandel. People passing between the countries would often stop here, but lately much fewer people had been making the journey. A sign of the times, it was often said.

Aaron sprung out of bed and picked up the neatly folded clothes lying atop a note-strewn nightstand. White button shirt, black pants, plain white overcoat. It was a set of his father’s old clothes and the closest thing he had that resembled his uniform, but it was wrinkled, worn, and made his back itch. The tight shirt showed off his vaguely defined muscles and thin waist. His long arms stretched out of his coat and his pants crumpled around his heels. His curly black hair was a little scruffy, but it rounded out his thin face and gentle eyes. As he looked in the mirror, he saw himself as a child playing the role of a doctor. Not the look he was hoping for on his first day.

Aaron picked up his thick notebook. It was ragged, its pages torn and tattered, and multi-coloured ribbons flopped out from every edge of the book. The markers were laboriously organized: red for medicinal recipes, green for emergency operations, blue for first aid, yellow for disease and infections, and white for anatomical references. It was his medicinal crutch, of which his father was highly critical, but he would need it today and it was always better to be prepared. This old notebook was his most valuable tool.

Aaron left his bedroom and went downstairs. He opened the front door so everyone could see he was open, then quickly closed it as the brisk winter wind reminded him why he was alone in the clinic in the first place. A rare medicinal flower was spotted out of town yesterday afternoon and the coming snowfall threatened to hide it from view and suffocate it, so Aaron’s father, Carter, set out overnight to harvest it. Aaron stayed behind to watch the clinic for half a day, in case of an emergency. It was the first time he had been allowed to run the clinic while his father was gone. He was ready.

Aaron turned eighteen this summer. He had been training as a doctor his whole life. Carter taught him to mix medicines, apply bandages, and perform first aid before he turned five. Since then, Aaron worked as an assistant to his father, learning how to treat all manners of injury and illness as he fetched instruments under his father’s guidance. Carter, however, had never let him work directly with a patient. Aaron had been an adult for almost half a year now, but still Carter was hesitant to give him the opportunity.

Aaron had occasionally worked with patients under his father’s supervision, but whenever he referred to his notebook, Carter glared disapprovingly at him. As a result, he was often flustered, rushed, and prone to miss obvious details. But that wouldn’t happen today. Today, he would be able to do his best work without distraction. He stood behind the short desk in front of the door, waiting eagerly for someone to walk through it.

As excitement passed into impatience, passed into boredom, Aaron wandered the house, looking for something to keep him occupied. He prepared topical disinfectants in the backroom, took stock of the bandages and gauze supply, and re-spooled a bundle of string that had become loose. He paused by the window in the kitchen, looking out to his next-door neighbours. The Johansburgs’ kids were playing in the snow. Little Lisa was chasing her twin brother, Kyle, who was definitely not little, around their grazing goat. Aaron wondered if Lisa would trip and skin her knees. Then she’d come to the clinic, Aaron would wash her wound clean and bandage it up, and give her a pat on the head as he sent her off, his first patient.

He stopped his train of thought early, finding it a little odd that he was hoping for Lisa to get injured just so he could treat her. He turned away from the window and stared at the empty kitchen, looking for something to do. Caliburn was a small town, so slow days were the norm at the clinic. Carter would often tend to his garden or help his neighbours with their daily chores, staying close to the clinic in case he was needed, though he rarely was.

The door creaked open and the chimes clanged excitedly. Aaron jumped into action and glided into the entrance hall.

The blond young man greeted him with a jovial voice. Hey there. Looking spiffy, Mr. Doctor. It was Ken, Aaron’s best friend. Ken was two inches taller than Aaron and still growing, his limbs lanky and thin, but his smooth face and wispy hair garnered him a lot of attention. Ken, however, was mostly oblivious to the sidelong glances and longing sighs sent in his direction, always responding with his naive smile.

Aaron gave a little chuckle, nice of you to come visit. I mean–– Aaron cleared his throat. Welcome to the Caliburn medical clinic. How might I assist you on this fine day?

Well, you see, I got this itch like all over my body, so I need you to just inspect every inch of me. Can you do that? Ken smiled wide. He’d be an excellent liar if he could keep a straight face.

Oh, I know what that is and unfortunately, there’s no cure. I’ll have to amputate.

Amputate what?

Your body. You’ll be perfectly fine, of course, Aaron said as he stepped into the kitchen momentarily, returning with a jar of pickled eggs. We’ll preserve your head in this and build you a new body of steel and magic. As good as––no, better than it was.

Ken nodded. Sounds awesome! When do we start?

Aaron pulled a pair of tiny scissors out of his coat pocket, normally used for cutting bandages. He snapped them open and closed. Right now!

Ken breathed through his teeth. "About that, I was kind of hoping a real doctor would be handling the operation."

Aaron punched Ken in the arm and both of them laughed. Aaron and Ken hugged and greeted each other, and Aaron started boiling water for tea while Ken wiped the damp snow off his boots.

Suddenly, three loud knocks pounded into the front door. Through the wall shouted a hurried voice, Carter, are you there? Open up!

Ken opened the door as Aaron rushed into the hallway. Jake the patrolman stood, out of breath, holding an unconscious young woman over his shoulder.

He’s not back yet, Aaron said, looking at the girl. She wasn’t moving. Is she alright?

Jake shook his head, no, she’s ice cold. Let us in.

Aaron stood aside as Jake stomped into the house. Jake stormed into the kitchen and looked around. Where’s the fireplace? he shouted.

Aaron followed him into the kitchen and led him into the main room, a collection of chairs, bookshelves, and a short table before the fireplace. Jake put her down in the chair nearest the fire. Aaron touched her shivering arm.

She’s very cold, he said calmly, even though he was not. Ken, go behind the kitchen and get a warm bath ready. No, a cold bath. Jake, find some blankets from the upstairs closet and bring them down. Jake and Ken scrambled to follow orders. Aaron quickly grabbed his notebook from the front desk and flipped through it, gliding through green ribbons until he found the page on hypothermia. It was written in his own hand, collected from various notes he read and lessons he had been given. In underlined letters near the top: exposure to even room temperature water can cause the patient to go into shock. DO NOT PLACE THE PATIENT IN A BATH.

Aaron rushed across the house and into the bathroom, where Ken was fiddling with the bath faucets. Hey cancel that, it’s a bad idea.

Ken looked puzzled for a moment before he saw the notebook tucked under Aaron’s arm. Right, what do we do?

Aaron read aloud It is best to place the patient near a source of heat with one or two blankets wrapped around them. Aaron closed the notebook as Ken drained the bath. Go lie her down next to the fireplace, I’ll check on Jake.

Aaron and Jake returned to the main room with blankets in hand. Ken quickly grabbed Jake’s blankets and feverishly wrapped up the girl’s body.

Hey, calm down, Aaron said. No need to rush.

You sure? Ken asked. She’s ice cold, man. It doesn’t look good.

Aaron kneeled down and carefully wrapped the second blanket around her, keeping it snug, but loose. He checked her pulse: slow but still there.

Well? Jake asked impatiently.

She’ll be fine, Aaron said. She’s out of the cold, so the primary danger has passed. Give her a little time and she’ll be just fine. Aaron didn’t know that, but he had done all that he could, so he had to assume that she’d get better. Her face was speckled with dirt and dust, but her skin was smooth. Her closed eyes and faded lips were tinged with pain. She needed his help and he did what he had to do. It made him feel warm. He helped her and he liked that he did. He wondered if there was anything else he could do.

Aaron asked Jake, "where did you find her?’

She just strolled into town from the main road, dressed in those thin clothes that couldn’t possibly keep the cold out. Aaron had noticed her clothes. Thin cotton shirt and pants, the kind of outfit you wear to keep cool in the summer.

Jake continued, I went over there and asked if she was okay and she collapsed right in my arms. I thought it felt bad, so I rushed over here as quick as I could.

Thanks for that, Jake, Aaron said. You might have saved her life. We can handle things from here.

Jake nodded, I just did what anyone would’ve done. I’ll tell Carter you got a patient when he gets back. This ain’t something you see every day. Jake stood up, took one final look at the girl wrapped in blankets, then left the clinic.

Aaron looked at Ken, who had been silently staring at the unconscious girl. What do you think?

Ken snapped to attention then sat down next to Aaron. The nearest town is a two days’ walk from here. Where did she come from?

Maybe she was running from something, Aaron wondered. An animal maybe?

"That might explain why she was scared, but not why she’s out here in the first place. She has no supplies, she’s fatally underdressed, and I’d bet she has no idea where she is. I think she’s running from someone, not something."

Someone like who? Aaron asked.

An escaped prisoner? Ken wondered. That would explain the plainclothes.

Aaron looked at her, a small silver chain wrapped around her wrist.

No, Aaron said. Prisoners don’t have jewelry. He gently pulled her arm up, examining the chain. It was a thin band of bright silver with a small crest shaped into it. It was a soft M above a sharp V, looking similar to a broken heart. A strange symbol.

Well, we can just ask her when she wakes up, right? Ken asked, his voice rushed.

Aaron nodded, yeah, we’ll find out when she wakes up. What if she was running from someone? Would they follow her here, to this clinic? What would they do then?

I’ll handle things from here, Ken, Aaron said. You should go home and clear your head. I’ll come by when I know more.

Ken refused. I’m not leaving you alone. I’m staying right here until she wakes up.

Aaron insisted, Carter wouldn’t be happy if he came home and found you hanging out here while I’ve got a patient.

Ken’s eyes flared. Ah, you’re right. I wouldn’t want to get in the middle of that. You sure you’ll be okay?

Yeah, Aaron nodded. We’ve done all we can for now. All we can do from here on is wait until she’s awake.

Hark, if you’re sure.

Aaron nodded, Yeah. Go home Ken.

Ken returned home while Aaron watched over the mysterious girl. He started to cook a vegetable soup, hoping it would be ready by the time she was awake.

Aaron heard her take a breath and start to move. He quickly moved back into the main room and next to the fireplace. She was dazed and weak, but her eyes were darting around the room in a panic.

Hey, calm down, he said softly. You’re alright. You’re safe.

She looked at him, her face a cascade of emotions: worry, surprise, fear. Aaron tried to smile, tried to keep her calm, but her gaze frightened him and he froze. After seconds that passed like minutes, she blinked and started looking around again, less frantically this time. Aaron breathed in relief as he felt his heart pound.

Are you hungry? he asked, I just started cooking some soup to help warm you up. She looked at him once more.

Gale, she said.

Huh?

Gale, she repeated. It’s my name.

Oh––right, my name is Aaron, he stammered.

It’s nice to meet you Aaron, she said, slowly bowing her head down as she sat up, staying wrapped in her blankets. She looked at the window, seeing nothing but trees and snow. Tell me, where are we?

You’re in the medical clinic of the town of Caliburn. He cleared his throat to sound authoritative. You were carried here, unconscious and shivering uncontrollably. You were treated for severe hypothermia and brought here to restore your body’s core temperature.

This is the clinic? She said quietly. Oh, I didn’t mean offense. Thank you for taking care of me. She smiled meekly and laid back down, staring at the ceiling.

Aaron continued, unfazed. You’ll feel slow and weak for a while, so you should rest for now.

You mentioned soup earlier?

Oh, of course, Aaron leapt back. Stay right there, I’ll get you some soup, he said as he bolted out of the room.

Thanks, Gale said to the doorway.

Aaron checked the still not boiling soup pot with his finger. It was hot, but couldn’t be considered cooked. Just then, the front door opened and the chimes rang throughout the house. Aaron dashed to the front room and saw his father taking off his heavy coat.

I heard you had a patient, he said. His short beard and weathered brow were flaked with snow he quickly wiped off as he entered the warmth of his home. He was tall and large, his shoulders wide, his torso thick and stately.

Yes, Aaron responded. She was unconscious before, but she’s awake now. I was about to get her some soup.

You put her in the dining room?

She’s wrapped in blankets by the fireplace.

Understandable. Carter removed his soiled boots through the kitchen into the main room, his feet rumbling against the wooden floors. Aaron followed behind and quickly poured some soup into the bowl before stumbling back into the main room. Carter had kneeled in front of Gale and was holding a hand against her forehead. Aaron stood and watched, holding the bowl of soup in his hand.

You seem to have warmed up, Carter said.

Thank you, Gale said.

What’s your name? Carter asked.

I am Gale M. Wolfgang, she said.

Where are you from?

My home is in Izador.

How old are you?

Twenty-One, Gale said.

Carter nodded. Good. I was just making sure your mind was unaffected by the cold. Take it easy for the rest of the day and let me know if you feel dizzy or disoriented.

I will, Gale said. I’m just a little drowsy at the moment.

Understandable. We will prepare a place for you to sleep and you can stay as long as you need.

Aaron’s hands started to burn from the soup. He quickly placed the bowl onto the nearby table.

Aaron, Carter said, bring that soup here for the patient.

Yes, right away, Aaron said as he quickly picked the bowl up with his seared hands.

Gale nodded politely as Aaron placed the bowl in front of her. Thank you for your hospitality. I will arrange for payment once I reach my destination.

Carter shook his head, That won’t be necessary. We’ll take care of you. You owe us nothing.

Gale paused. You are very courteous. Such charity is a foreign idea where I am from. She looked at Carter plainly, watching his face.

Aaron interrupted. It’s not a problem. We take care of those in need without expecting a reward. That’s how we work.

Gale looked at Aaron, his shy smile conveying his innocence. Then I am grateful for everything you do.

Aaron, Carter said, set up the spare bed for her. Aaron nodded. Carter turned to Gale. Do you need anything?

"I think I just need a warm bed and a change of clothes. Will that be possible?’

Aaron had an idea. I can talk to Ken and see if he can make something.

That would be good, Carter said, but you’ve promised a second thing and have yet to fulfill the first.

Right, sorry, Aaron nodded at Gale quickly and left the main room, quickly putting on shoes and walking out the front door. The cold air bit at his skin. He had forgotten his coat, but he had already left the clinic and it was too late to awkwardly head back inside. His faux-doctor outfit should keep him warm enough for the short jaunt to Ken’s house on the other end of town. He walked quickly across the chilled ground, waving at the bundled-up people he crossed along the way. To his surprise, Aaron was chilled to the bone by the time he reached Ken’s house.

Ken shouted his greetings from another room, then greeted him at the door. I figured you’d be coming over soon. You need something?

Yeah, Aaron said, rubbing his hands on his arms. Do you have any spare winter clothes?

Ken laughed. What’s wrong? You forget yours at home?

Not for me; for the girl.

Ken gestured to the work desk behind him: a long table with multi-coloured bolts of fabric lined on the shelves behind it, heaps of black fur clothing piled atop and stretched across it.

Already on it, Ken said. I figured she didn’t intend to stay here, so I talked to Mom and we’ll be working to prepare some more weather-appropriate clothing for her.

Aaron slapped his hands on Ken’s shoulders. That’s awesome! It looks like you’ve already made a lot of progress.

We’re just resizing an old set. Shouldn’t take too long. Could have it done tomorrow if we wanted to.

Aaron nodded. I’ll let her know, she’ll be happy to hear it. Aaron stood in the doorway, his cold feet starting to feel moist from the melting snow. He wished he could stay at Ken’s for a while, let his chilled bones fill with warmth, but he had a patient waiting for him, so he rushed back, half-frozen by the time he returned to the clinic. Carter was waiting for him.

That was foolish, he said. I’ve told you not to rush. That’s when you forget things. Aaron started untying his boots without responding. Carter kept talking. Today, it’s your coat. Next time? Who knows.

I’m fine.

Is that so? Then stop shivering. Aaron stayed silent as he shivered in the doorway. Carter frowned. I don’t know how getting hypothermia is supposed to help your patient recover. Any word from the master tailors?

Yes, Father. Aaron said. They’re already working on it. Carter nodded, then stood up and walked to the kitchen without saying a word. Aaron slid his boots onto the rug near the door and took a moment to breathe on his hands.

Aaron strode into the main room. Gale was now sitting on the chair near the fireplace, still wrapped in blankets, a steaming cup in her hands. Aaron walked over and nodded quickly as their eyes met. Are you feeling well?

Yes, Gale said with a tired, breathy voice. I must thank you and your father for your help. I can’t imagine how I would have ended up without you.

Aaron blushed. It is our duty, no need to thank us.

Gale nodded and sipped at her cup. They sat in silence in front of the fireplace, Gale’s eyes staring lazily at the snow-encrusted window.

If you don’t mind me asking, Aaron said to break the silence, where are you headed? He was more concerned about why she was here, but felt it would be less appropriate to ask that.

Randgrith, Capital of Ilter, Gale said. I intend to meet my uncle there, who has agreed to take care of me in my time of need.

Your time of need?

Yes, I had to leave my home for, Gale paused, various reasons and he agreed to protect me for a while.

You’re quite a ways away from Ilter, Aaron said, How did you end up out here?

Gale opened her mouth to respond, but bit her lip. I’d rather not talk about it, she said.

That’s fair, Aaron said. Tomorrow we’ll arrange for some traveling supplies you can take with you to make things easier. It’s two weeks by foot to Randgrith, so you’re gonna need it. Aaron blushed. Of course, you can stay here as long as you want to. I––Carter and I will help you out.

Gale smiled. Your kindness is admirable. Where I’m from, we do not hand out hospitality so freely. There is always an unspoken promise for reciprocal charity. Gale stared sharply at Aaron, the weariness in her eyes suddenly absent.

Oh, Aaron said, there’re no expectations on our part. People have taken care of us in the past, so we’re just paying it forward. We’re just re-gifting the charity we’ve received.

Where I’m from, we are always looking towards the future. We grant charity to establish relations with a potential partner. We don’t give anything without a potential return.

That’s very practical, Aaron noted.

It’s also heartless.

Aaron smiled. That’s what practical means, yes?

Gale looked at him with a furrowed brow. He talked straight, concealed nothing, and gave freely. She didn’t expect him to be this honest. Was it all an act?

You must be getting tired, Aaron said. I’ll finish getting your bed ready.

Thank you, I am rather fatigued, Gale said.

Aaron nodded. Sure thing, I’ll see you in the morning. He smiled before leaving her alone in the main room. She was an odd girl, he thought. She spoke formally and precisely, and many of the things she said were unlike anything he’d heard before. Aaron had never met someone like her; it made him happy that he could help her.

He strode through the hallway, carrying blankets and pillows and neatly making the small bed in the room under the stairs, his feet gliding across the floor with every step. He had always liked helping patients, but Gale was different. He enjoyed seeing her gracious smile and every small thing he did to help her out filled him with a warm joy. It was the first time he’d helped someone who was truly in need. Before, it was merely cuts, bruises, strained bones, and sore backs. But this time… this time, he felt that he was changing a life for the better.

Aaron strode back into the main room and smiled at Gale. Your bed is ready for you.

Gale smiled back, the warmth of it reaching Aaron’s heart. Thank you.

Chapter Two

Miaux and Valeris left Durandal in the morning, their carriage pointed east under the rising sun. The two sat in the coach on opposite corners, staring out the side windows, neither of them knowing how to start a conversation. The wheels ground against the dirt road as they sat steadfast and silent.

After a few hours of travel, the carriage slowed. Miaux looked out the window and saw the massive chasm between Sandel and Garadolt, a veritable scar across the land that became the border between the two countries. The only crossing was a long bridge, built and managed by Garadolt and it was their soldiers deciding who crossed it. Miaux’s driver, his valet, Lucien, tapped on the front window. Miaux turned around and lifted the small wooden flap to speak with him.

There’s trouble, Lucien said. Best you take a look.

Miaux thanked Lucien and closed the flap. Valeris opened the door to leave the carriage, but Miaux placed a hand on her shoulder.

I’ll handle this, he said. You should stay in here.

Valeris frowned. You think I can’t handle myself?

Not that, Miaux said as he hopped out of the carriage. I just want the opportunity to make a name for myself.

A name for your alias, you mean?

Absolutely. Miaux smirked and closed the door.

Miaux pulled himself up to the driver’s seat, hanging off the side of the coach next to Lucien as he surveyed the road. The wind howled in his ears as he spotted a collection of roughly thirty people huddled in a group before the border a short distance away. Miaux couldn’t see past their thick coats, but he could faintly hear the sounds of shouting over the wind. Miaux hopped off the driver’s perch and walked toward the crowd, checking the inner pocket of his gilded coat. He felt the hard, T-shaped object inside of it to make sure it was there. Assured, he strode confidently towards the commotion.

As he approached, Miaux caught a glimpse of a large man standing in the face of a uniformed border guard, chest puffed out. Both of them were flanked by their comrades, staring each other down while shouting what he assumed to be profanities. Miaux began to squeeze through the gathering of people, and as he made his way to the other side of the crowd, the large man threw a punch at the border guard and knocked him off his feet. The crowd started to scatter as both sides drew blades. Miaux rushed forward.

The guards swarmed around their downed comrade as the thugs spread around them. Miaux squeezed through the thugs and inserted himself between the two groups, standing face-to-chest with the large man. He had a powerful jaw and a large scar running from his chin to his ear, and on his shoulder rested the head of the bear pelt he wore as a cloak. He looked down at Miaux, who nodded awkwardly.

So, Miaux said timidly, what’s the problem here?

The large man responded, his voice raspy. None a’ your business. The downed border guard stood up and collected himself, but didn’t say anything.

Miaux shrugged. "Well, I would like to go through here at some point. So can you wrap this up sooner rather than later?"

The large man glared at him, then spat on the ground at Miaux’s feet. The Gits won’t let us through. You wanna get through? Talk to them.

The downed guard spoke up. You and your kind are not allowed through. Leave now.

Just try and stop us, the large man barked as he grabbed Miaux’s collar and pulled him out of the way as he stomped towards the guards.

Miaux reached to grab him when a sudden blast of air knocked his hand away, a gust exploding downwards in a circle all around him. Everyone but him was pushed off their feet by the gale, their weapons clanging to the ground. Miaux chuckled and wiped the dust off his coat. He could have guessed that Valeris wouldn’t stay in the coach.

As the others started getting to their feet, Miaux cocked his head and put his hand on his hip.

Do I have your attention now? He said. The large man locked eyes with him, cracking his knuckles loudly.

Ya think you can come here, weave your witchcraft in my face, and tell me what to do? The large man stepped towards Miaux. He bumped his chest on Miaux’s shoulders and stared down at him. Try it again, hotshot. I dare you. Miaux looked up at the large man, who was baring his teeth like a wolf about to pounce.

Miaux shrugged. Well, if you say so. He raised his left hand and the large man grabbed him by the wrist. Miaux casually tried to wriggle his hand free without breaking eye contact. The large man grinned and wound up with his other arm.

Miaux focused. His chest filled with energy and he pushed it into his right hand, filling it with a cool, tingling feeling. The large man threw a fist towards his face as Miaux raised his right hand to block. It glowed a faint light blue and tendrils of frost formed spider webs from his hand to his forearm. He shoved his arm towards the incoming fist as a thick sheet of clear, white ice coated his forearm in a long oval: a buckler of ice.

Bones cracked and blood spilled as the large man’s fist crushed against the hard ice. He howled in pain and recoiled. Miaux pulled his left hand free and kicked the man in the gut, knocking him onto his butt. His fur-cloaked friends rushed forward. Miaux reached into his coat, drawing the item from his coat pocket and thrust it forward at his charging opponents, stopping them for a moment.

Miaux held in his hands an amethyst sword hilt, shaped to a ‘T’ with a glowing blue pommel gem. He stood there, stalwart, shield of ice in his right hand, sword hilt in his left, while the border guards flanked the unruly assailants. The large man stood up and wiped the blood from his broken hand as his men formed a circle around him, blades pointed at the guards now surrounding them.

Don’t just stand there, you idjuts! he shouted. He stared directly at Miaux, who stood defiantly with his empty sword hilt. The hark d’you think you’re tryin’ to pull? I ain’t afraid of your punk ass.

Miaux smirked. He stepped forward and flicked his wrist. With a flash of light, hard steel appeared from the once-empty sword hilt, a shiny gray flamberge with its undulating blade extending six feet long. The tip of the sword rested against the large man’s face, pushing gently on his cheek. Both of them stood still. Though the blade Miaux held was excessively large, it felt weightless in his hands, as if he were still holding a blank sword hilt. The large man was unmoved.

Miaux chuckled and pulled his sword back, resting the blade on his own shoulder. I think that’s enough of that, don’t you think? He lowered his shoulder and let the blade fall downwards as it slowly evapourated into nothingness, leaving only the hilt behind. Miaux returned the hilt to his inner coat pocket and walked forward.

The name’s Lezard. Miaux said, stretching out his empty hand. Nice to meet you.

The large man stared him down, unmoving, unwilling to trust the fop who stood before him. Claud, he said, leaving Miaux’s hand in the air.

Miaux stretched his arms out and gave an exaggerated shrug. Look, this isn’t going anywhere good, so I feel like we should call it quits and go our separate ways. Sound good to you all?

Claud shook his head. No. We’re crossing that bridge.

And I’m sure you will, Miaux said. Just not today. Things keep going this way, by the end of the day, you won’t even be able to cross your legs.

Claud glared.

Because they’ll be in chains, you see. Miaux explained. He laughed and brushed the hair away from his forehead. Put it this way: leave now, you can come back later with a plan and some more guys, maybe have a better chance of busting through. Sound good?

Claud’s expression was unchanged. He glanced back at his comrades, who were still holding blades against the border patrol.

Everyone wins, mate, Miaux said. Except maybe the guards. But I’m not too sure you care about them, am I right? Claud said nothing in response. Instead, he waved to his men.

Let’s go, idjuts. Nothing more to do here. Claud stepped forward and stared down at Miaux, who stepped aside and let him walk past him. The crowd of onlookers parted in front of him as he and his crew approached, letting him leave as he puffed his chest back out. In the crowd, Miaux spotted Valeris’ beige robes.

One of the border guards approached Miaux from behind and thanked him.

We were expecting you, Ambassador Lezard. He said. Please, bring your carriage to the front and we’ll bring you through the gates.

Miaux and Valeris sat in silence once more as their carriage crossed the bridge into Garadolt. Miaux stared out the window as he adjusted his collar, still bent from where Claud grabbed him.

You’re welcome, Valeris said.

Miaux looked at Valeris, who sat cross legged in the other corner with her head resting against the wall. I prefer diplomacy, Miaux said.

You can’t reason with brutes.

"You might not be able to."

Valeris scowled and looked away.

I mean… Miaux trailed off. He had never been very good at talking to her.

I didn’t expect you to get by. Valeris said. I still expected this all to be a lie, a trick to bring me home.

Miaux hummed. That would be a fairly convoluted plan. Absolutely my style, yes, but this was Valeth’s plan. She’s a lot more straightforward in her design.

She shoehorned you into a diplomatic journey so that you could maybe find me and pick me up on the way and somehow convince me to join you on the way home.

Miaux nodded. Yes, much more straightforward.

Valeris sighed and looked out the window, wondering why she agreed to go with him.

In the early morning, Aaron was digging through the storage shed in the backyard. The place was dusty and dark, but still saw much use. Shelves filled with non-perishables, glassware, and disused medical tools lined all the walls. At the back corner, Aaron pulled over boxes of empty mason jars and vials that were stacked in the corner. As he pulled them away, he revealed a neatly folded assortment of old clothes and torn blankets. Aaron grabbed a small cloth bag that held only one small object. He opened it up and plunked it into his hand. It was a metal cube that fit neatly into his palm. A complex set of symbols was engraved on every face of it, save for one side that held a pointed dial with two settings: off and on.

Carter personally distrusted magical instruments and never got around to using it. Aaron never had a reason to try. Someone like Gale, however, might be more accustomed to it.

Aaron left the shed and returned to the clinic, his boots crunching through the damp snow. His father was lounging by the fireplace, drinking tea while reading a leather-bound journal.

Aaron dropped the sack into the pocket of his lab coat, kicked off his boots, and greeted his father.

How’s the patient? he asked.

She is awake, Carter said, and much refreshed. You should check on her.

Aaron nodded. Anything in particular you need to confirm?

Correct, Carter said, withholding any clarification.

Aaron considered it, but decided not to challenge him. Carter usually had a reason for concealing information. Aaron strode out of the lounge and knocked on the door beneath the stairs.

Good morning, Aaron said as he stepped in, Did you sleep well?

Gale sat on her bed, brushing the knots out of her golden hair. I did, thank you, she said. She hopped to her feet and stood facing Aaron, her weathered shirt hanging loosely and exposing her shoulder. Is there something you need?

No, Aaron said quickly. You look good. I mean, you look like you’ve recovered well. Not that you don’t look good. I mean… Aaron stopped himself. He wasn’t sure where he was going with this.

Gale covered her mouth and chuckled. Thank you for the compliment. I owe much of my recovery to you and your father’s aid.

Aaron scratched the back of his head. It was nothing, really. He said. He reached into has coat pocket and pulled out the small sack. Here, this is for you.

Gale graciously accepted the gift and pulled the metal cube out of the sack. She traced the symbols with her finger, her eyes widening with curiosity. She gasped, Oh my, this is a very valuable item. You have my sincerest of thanks.

Oh, you know what it is?

Yes. She nodded. They are quite rare, but I’ve come across them before. Inscribed magic takes a lot of time and skill to create. This is a boxtent, if I’m not mistaken?

I believe so, Aaron said.

Gale played with the box in her hands, looking at it from every angle. Where did you get this?

Aaron told Gale how they received the boxtent. Several years ago, Carter received it as payment for saving a wealthy ambassador from the ire of a poisonous berry. Travelers often passed through Caliburn on journeys to and from Sandel, but it wasn’t a place to visit. The ambassador lacked the free coin to pay his tab, so he elected instead to pay with a novelty. Though Carter didn’t enjoy magical instruments, he saw no reason to refuse the offer. It had sat in storage ever since, waiting for the chance to be used.

So it was a gift to you, Gale said, and now you are giving it to me. That is very kind. Thank you. Gale smiled.

Aaron blushed. Yeah, you’re welcome.

There’s something I want to ask of you. Do you mind?

Aaron’s mind raced. He tried hard to focus his thoughts and keep himself upright. N-no, not at all.

It may not be easy for me to make the rest of my journey alone. Would you be willing to escort me?

Wh-what? Aaron stammered. He swallowed and took a breath. Focus, he thought.

I already talked with your father and he said it was your decision.

Oh, I see, Aaron said. Was this the question Carter wanted to confirm? Aaron took a moment to collect his thoughts.

It’s a lot to ask, I know. Gale said. You don’t have to decide right away. But be aware that I will be leaving this afternoon.

Already? Are you sure you’ll be ready to leave by then?

I have no choice. Someone is waiting for me.

What about your condition? It’s not as cold as it was yesterday but you’re still unprepared.

Carter has assured me that I would have the provisions to make the journey ready by then. He also said that you asked the tailor to supply me with proper clothing.

Aaron remembered the winter outfit that Ken was making. Right, he said. So you’ll have everything you need to leave.

Gale nodded. Yes, I am prepared to make the journey. However, she crossed her hands together as her body swayed back and forth. I’d prefer it if I didn’t have to go alone.

Aaron’s breath caught in his throat. Could he go with her? It would be easy to say yes, but he had never left Caliburn on his own before. The thought filled him with equal parts excitement and dread. He longed to see the world, yes, but so much can happen while traveling. What if he’s unprepared? What if he forgets to bring something? What would Carter think?

Then again, Carter already knew what Gale was going to ask, that going with Gale was his own decision.

Aaron’s eyes had drifted to Gale’s feet. He quickly raised his head to look Gale in the eyes. Can I talk to Carter first?

Of course, said Gale.

Aaron nodded and left the room. Thanks, he said as he closed the door behind him. From the other room, he heard Carter place his teacup back on the end table and flip to the next page of his journal. No doubt, he had overheard the conversation between them; the patient’s room was built with thin walls and high, open windows so that the patient could be heard from all points in the house. Aaron strolled into the main room and stood in front of Carter.

So, Carter said. What did you find out?

She wants me to go with her, Aaron said. She said she’d already talked to you about it.

That I did.

And?

Carter exhaled slowly. It’s your decision.

Aaron sighed audibly You don’t care?

You’ve wanted to leave for some time now. This is a good excuse.

Aaron shook his head. So, you don’t care.

"Of course I care, Carter said, closing his journal with a thud. He took a moment to catch his thoughts. At one point, I wanted you to stay and inherit this clinic, but that’s not what you want, is it? I’ve known for a while that, someday, you would leave just as suddenly as you arrived."

Aaron stood still, not knowing what to say.

Once you leave, Carter continued, you’ll find more places to go and more things to do. You might not want to come back.

"That’s not true. This is my home."

I know, Carter said, and you will always be welcome here. If you choose to leave, you should be ready to follow any path you find, even if it takes you farther away from here. You should not feel obliged to return here until you’ve sated your curiosity. Carter paused to take a sip of tea. He was frustrated at his own words, unable to say what he really wanted to say. What I mean is: don’t miss this opportunity.

Aaron looked at his father. His firm gaze and broad cheeks made him seem ever stoic in his expression, but in these rare moments, his eyes glistened with scarcely contained emotion. It was a rare sight. Thank you, Father, Aaron said.

There’s one more thing you should know, Carter said. Sit down.

Aaron obliged. What is it?

It’s about your mother, Carter said. Do you know much about her?

Aaron shook his head. Only that she wasn’t from around here.

Carter took a deep breath. Three months after my–– Carter hesitated. "After my wife died, a young woman came to our town. She was alone and with child. She needed a place to stay. I let her stay in the clinic, where she gave birth to you. Her name was Ariel. She had your eyes. She was tall and beautiful and she reminded me of my wife. Shortly after you were born, she disappeared; left in the middle of the night.

When I had asked her what happened to the father, her eyes filled with pain and I respected that silence. All this time, I haven’t forgotten the look in her eyes. She had given birth, but that question hurt her more than anything else. Carter grew silent. He remembered his wife, Claire. He remembered her smile, her laughter, and it felt so far away. He remembered her death. How she died, giving birth to their daughter, how there was nothing he could do to save her. He remembered how his daughter died of illness two weeks later, how there was nothing he could do to save her either. In two weeks, he saw everything vanish in front of him. Then, this mysterious woman appeared and left suddenly, leaving her child behind. He did the only thing he felt he could do.

You needed someone to raise you, Carter said quietly, so I took you in, raised you like my own. Your mother named you before she left. It was the only thing she left for you.

Aaron was stunned. It was the first time he had heard about his mother and the first time he had heard Carter talk about his late wife. He had heard about Claire from the other people in the village, but Carter had never spoken of her. Ken’s mother said Carter was stricken with grief so terrible that they worried for his life… until Aaron came along and gave him a purpose when he otherwise had none.

But it’s your time to leave, Carter said, to follow in your mother’s footsteps. Pack your things and get ready. Be ready for anything and everything. Carter stood up. His lip quivered. He nodded softly and walked away.

Dad, Aaron said. Carter stopped. Thanks, and I love you.

Carter turned to face the empty hallway, his eyes watering. I love you. He left the room and walked upstairs.

Aaron slumped into his chair, his mind racing. He felt a mixture of longing and hope; the confusion of knowing his mother abandoned him and the hope that he might find her someday. Carter wanted him to leave, saying that Aaron wanted to leave. He was right. Aaron had dreamed of leaving ever since he could imagine, but he never had somewhere to go, something to do. Now he did. Now was his chance.

Aaron stood up, fetched his boots, donned his coat, and left the clinic, the cold air invigorating his damp throat as he walked to his best friend’s house.

As the front door banged shut, Gale opened the door to her room and looked around. She noticed Aaron’s coat was the one missing, so she strode upstairs and knocked on the only closed door.

Come in, Carter said. Gale opened the door and saw Carter sitting on his bed, staring blankly at the golden ring in his hands.

Thank you, Gale said. I was worried he would not want to leave here.

You’ll look after him, Carter said matter-of-factly. You won’t make me regret letting him leave.

He’ll be safe, Gale said.

Will he find his mother? Carter asked.

Gale nodded. We hope so.

Aaron and Ken walked into the forest to a small clearing just off the road. They came here often to spend time alone, to chat, to play, and to practice. Aaron picked up a long, narrow stick resting against a tree. Ken grabbed two shorter ones and held them in each hand. They stood face to face and without a word, Ken lunged at Aaron and swiped quickly at his chest. Aaron interposed his stick in front of Ken’s and jumped back to avoid the swing from his other arm.

They fought. They fought harder than either of them remembered fighting. When they got tired, they shook it off. When their arms and chests were scraped by unblocked sticks, they shrugged it off. They fought until their arms were numb and their breaths painful.

As the fight drew to a close, they laid side by side on the snow, staring at the sky.

So, you think I should go? Aaron said between beleaguered breaths.

You’d be crazy not to go, said Ken.

Aaron stared at the sky, not knowing what to say. He was afraid to go, afraid of what might happen while he was gone, both to him and to Caliburn. He wanted to stay where everything was familiar, but he didn’t want to miss the opportunity.

Are you sure? Aaron said.

Ken laughed. It’s not my decision, man. But you know what, if you don’t go, I’ll be furious with you. This is just like the storybooks. Damsels in distress. Knights in shining armour rescuing them. I want to know how it ends. Don’t you?

Aaron sat up. I never thought of it that way.

Ken rolled over and pushed himself onto his feet, swaying slightly as he found his balance. You better let me know how it ends, okay? Ken held his hand out and pulled Aaron up into a tight hug, Ken’s lanky arm wrapping around Aaron’s shoulders.

Yeah, Aaron said. I’ll keep you updated.

Great, Ken said. He walked to the edge of the clearing and opened his bag. He pulled out a tightly bound block of fur and tossed it at Aaron. For you.

Aaron caught the package and stared at it in awe. Wait, this is the black bear set?

Sure is, Ken said. For the lady.

You sure it will fit?

Who do you think you’re talking to? Ken smirked.

Aaron nodded. You’re right. Thanks, I owe you one.

You owe me, like, twelve.

Deal.

Aaron and Ken stood still, saying their goodbyes in silence. For the first time, Aaron felt like he had to leave. To leave so he could come back and tell Ken everything that happened while he was gone.

Now, get going, Ken said. You don’t want her to leave without you.

Aaron smiled. Yeah.

The town’s tailor made this for you, Aaron explained as he re-entered the clinic. Gale was now sitting on the chair near the fireplace, relaxing with a cup of tea. Aaron walked over and showed her the parcel.

Gale set down her tea and took the parcel gracefully and looked at Aaron. A single bead of sweat was falling down his temple. She slowly untied the furry parcel. As it unraveled, it became a heavy black coat that fell all the way to her ankles and a pair of boots followed it, thunking onto the ground.

It’s a black bear set, Aaron explained. Gale looked at him with a raised brow. About a year ago, a black bear got close to our town and we couldn’t relocate it. It was getting aggressive and territorial, so we had to put it down. We found out afterwards that it had a newborn cub too young to fend for itself. We decided to take care of it until it was old enough.

Aaron touched the soft fur of the coat. The tailors made this coat and boot set out of the mother’s hide, but nobody wanted to wear it while the cub was still around. And by the time we let the cub go free, well, there were already too many memories attached to it. Aaron paused for a moment. Oh, this is probably not convincing you to take it, is it?

Gale shook her head. No, it’s a wonderful story. Life is sacred, but so is death. I’m happy that both can be useful. Thank you.

You are very welcome, Aaron said awkwardly. Life is sacred, but so is death? How was death sacred?

Gale wrapped the thick coat around her and held it tightly to her body. She examined herself head to toe and smiled. It’s wonderful.

Carter entered the room, his large feet announcing his arrival as they stomped against the wooden boards. So, you’ve made your decision?

Aaron nodded. Yes. I’ll go with her.

Carter looked at the two. The black bear coat fit snugly against Gale’s pale skin. She looked invigorated and energetic, a far cry from the time she had arrived. Aaron stood next to her, his eyes beaming with determination. It would be a big step forward in his life, and Carter hoped he was ready for it.

Carter reached out and placed a hand on Aaron’s shoulders, then pulled him in and gave him a tight hug.

Remember, Carter said, don’t do anything more than you need.

And never do anything less, Aaron finished.

Carter let go of Aaron and looked him straight in the eyes. Stay healthy. Stay alert.

I will, Father.

Aaron and Gale stood side by side as Carter took one last look at them.

Look after each other, Carter said. "Got it?’

Of course, Aaron said.

I will, said Gale.

Aaron looked at Gale and smiled. You ready to go?

Gale nodded. Yes, let’s

Chapter Three

Miaux waved his hand through the air as his fingers pulsed, leaving a trail of blue-white dust suspended in its wake. He stopped for a moment as the dust hung in the air, then clenched his fist hard around the edge of the cloud. The dust compressed and solidified, turning a glimmering white as it materialized in the shape of a hatchet, the handle inside his firm grip. Miaux raised the hatchet above his head, then swung downwards, driving it into a branch beside him. To his dismay, the blade only wedged halfway into the branch before it came to a stop. He clicked his tongue and pulled back on the handle, but the hatchet was stuck firmly in the branch. He planted his foot on the trunk and pulled with all his might, but the blade stayed rooted in place as the notched branch swung back and forth.

Darn, Miaux said as he relaxed. He focused on the hatchet and dispersed part of the magic, the axe-head melting away, leaving only a loose handle. With a flick of his wrist, the head reformed in an instant. Miaux lined up the hatchet and swung again.

After a couple chops, Miaux picked up the edge of the branch and dragged it through the forest back to his camp: a small tent and fire pit next to a brook. He cut off a small piece of the brittle branch and threw it into the still-burning fire. He stood looking at the flames and heard the gentle rustling of leaves from above him.

He casually stepped to the side as someone crashed down where he was standing with a gentle thump. It was Valeris, her hair rustled and her clothes loose. She got back to her feet and looked at Miaux, her face lacking expression.

You’ve improved since I left, she said. Her voice hollow.

Miaux shrugged. I have to take care of myself. This country isn’t known for treating its foreign guests exceedingly well.

Valeris shook off the leaves from her long white coat and stared listlessly into the fire.

Well, Miaux said, you did what you came to do. You ready to go?

Valeris walked into Miaux’s tent, without a word.

Fair enough, Miaux said. He walked slowly towards the tent, stomping his feet so she knew he was approaching, and stopped just