The Debt Collector

By James Scott DeLane

An immortal beauty charms a dying king. A bargain is struck; in exchange for her gift of life he agrees to travel the world collecting her debts. Adventures unfold in a land of magic and fantasy. The king learns of a world he never knew. The beauty learns to rely on him until at last she opens her heart.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Wings ePress, Inc.
• Release date: Jul 22, 2023
• ISBN: 9781597051330

Book preview

The Debt Collector

Volume I

One

A gift accepted, a promise made

Iam known by many names. Some call me a butcher, others a demon. Those who speak of me say my heart is black and my eyes are cold. Storytellers enchant their listeners with vivid tales of my adventures, never failing to stress my cruelty. I don’t deny I’ve done horrible things and my purpose in telling this story is not to apologize or explain. Perhaps I am by nature a heartless person, perhaps I don’t feel and see things the way others do, but that doesn’t mean I feel or see nothing. In my long life I have seen and felt many things which have never been told. Now, while I am still able, I shall tell of my life and the unusual woman who chose me above all others.

I was born in the year eight hundred and seven, in the rich lands of Aros near the Capian Sea. My mother named me Stephan, in memory of the great ruler of generations past. My father always called me Oran because my eyes were green as emeralds.

My mortal life was one of extravagance. Normal hardships and difficulties faced by others were unknown to me. Mine was an ancient patrician family whose wealth was limited only by our desire to expand it. My every need was attended, my every wish granted. I was pampered, protected, and cuddled by my parents and countless servants. It was only natural that I became arrogant and intolerant.

My mother sang to me and taught me how to sketch. I spent far too little time with her. My father never ceased lecturing about my responsibilities and my place in the world. He had such grand plans for me.

Power is built on knowledge, he constantly preached.

No expense was spared in my education. My father assembled the finest teachers, musicians, orators, and poets. I was well tutored in all the arts and sciences. Special attention was paid to the skills needed by a prince. My father understood the importance of seeing into the false promises of others. To master the arts of intrigue, I received private instruction from an old man who had mentored many powerful rulers.

Lucilus was his name and he developed a particular fondness for me. He, more than others, appreciated my capacities and he took a very personal interest in my education. He employed his influence to mold and shape me. Into my open ear he would often whisper, Strike first... Power seeks the ruthless and rewards the cunning... Many battles are won with a lie... Crush your enemies... You have no friends...

Lucilus taught me what my father never learned. Real power is built on terror.

Those around you should tremble, Lucilus would say. For fear of what you might do next.

The gods were generous with their gifts. Physically, I was quick, strong, and unequaled in agility. Mentally, my tutors were amazed at the ease with which I grasped the complex. Subtleties of reason and logic, lost on most, I quickly understood.

Born under a lucky star, everyone agreed.

As time passed, hints of my destiny were revealed. I was a natural leader and an adept warrior. By the age of fourteen, I mastered the sword, the bow, and the ax. By sixteen, I fought and easily defeated grown men. By day I relentlessly practiced with all manner of weapon; by night Lucilus and I studied in detail the campaigns, tactics, and mistakes of great warlords past. I often lost myself in grand dreams of battles, future conquests, and all the glory which awaited me. Lucilus stoked my growing ambitions by assuring me the world was mine, if only I had the will to seize it.

While I slept, Lucilus sat near my bed and softly whispered in my ear: Trust no one, my young prince.

For my eighteenth birthday my father arranged a feast. Emissaries, politicians, and merchants from the known world were invited. At this festival my proud father would announce, that I, his only son, was a man.

The great hall of our main estate was made ready. Fresh flowers and fruits of all varieties lined the long wooden tables. Roaring fires roasted six bulls. Fine carriages and multicolored caravans filled the open fields, flags and emblems from around the world unfurled in the spring breeze. This would be a celebration long remembered.

Despite my protests, I couldn’t avoid this festival. My father stressed the importance of developing influential contacts. He said these powerful people traveled great distances to welcome me into the world. He said many brought their eligible daughters and I should be thinking ahead. I had no interest in these politicians and merchants or their daughters. My plans extended far beyond simple business transactions. My father didn’t appreciate the full depth of my ambitions, but Lucilus did.

Lucilus pulled me aside and suggested I use this festival as an opportunity to practice my speaking skills. My wise tutor advised there would be occasions when skillful words would suit my purposes. Since I was the guest of honor, I had to attend.

By mid afternoon the grand hall bustled with guests. Smiling musicians entertained, as did roving artisans and brightly dressed magicians. Behind every hopeful mother trailed an aspiring daughter, each dressed in their finest clothes, with perfect hair and warm smiles. They shyly introduced themselves and bowed with grace and elegance. How hard they strived to curry my favor. How totally I ignored them.

I was drawn into a conversation with the mayor of a great city. He extolled the many virtues of his town as well as those of his sweet, young daughter. No doubt he spoke the truth, but neither he nor his well-mannered child interested me in the slightest.

I excused myself from the mayor and his clinging daughter and made my way toward the tables. Hopeful mothers and single women tried to stop me but I politely moved on. As lovely and polished as all the young ladies were, none of them caught my eye. I couldn’t wait for this festival to end.

I stood at a table and ate fresh grapes from a large silver bowl. That was the moment I first saw her. Like a bright flash of light, she caught my eye. At the far end of the hall stood a solitary woman dressed in a white gown. She held a long-stemmed red rose in her hand. A purple mask made of feathers covered her eyes. She returned my gaze with an inviting smile. The din and chatter of the hall faded from my ears. I saw no one but her, as if she and I were alone in the huge room.

I made my way toward her. Guests beckoned me to stop and take notice but I brushed them aside. All I saw was the enchanting woman holding the rose. Jewels adorned the sleeves of her dress. She wore a golden necklace with a single dark red stone. Her thick, honey colored hair was woven into a braid which hung to the middle of her back. A polished silver hairpiece, studded with glimmering diamonds, adorned the top of the braid. Her dress was cut low, revealing much of her breasts. Her smile widened as I approached. In her delicate fingers, she slowly twirled her flower.

I stopped a few feet in front of her. She waited for me to speak. Her presence had an effect on me I’d never felt. I should have spoken but all I could do was marvel at her flawless beauty.

Are you the birthday boy? she asked.  The young prince I’ve heard so much about?

The purple feathers shielded part of her face. I was unable to read her expression.

Your eyes, I said. Please let me see your eyes.

As you wish.

She gently placed her rose upon the table. With her hands, she raised the feathered mask. She looked at me and smiled.

Is this better? she asked.

I was astonished by the full impact of her face. Such eyes I’d never seen. They were blue like crystals in a kaleidoscope. Haunting and mesmerizing, her eyes captivated me.

Who are you? I asked.

She extended her hand and lightly touched her fingertips to the side of my face. She looked very deeply into me.

I’m a visitor who has traveled a very long way to see you.

For a moment her gaze left me and she surveyed the crowded hall.

Shall we walk outside? Away from these people? she asked.

She took my hand and led me toward the doors. I completely forgot where I was. She looked ahead, but I looked at her.

Side by side, we walked to the cherry orchard. The hundreds of trees were in bloom and their sweet scent filled the air. When we were away from the lights and sounds of the banquet, she stopped and faced me. She put her hands on my chest and moved very close. I placed my hands on the warm skin of her shoulders. With the sides of my fingers, I lightly caressed her smooth face. Standing so close, I could smell her. I could see the veins in her neck; I could feel the warmth of her body. She moved close enough so her breasts touched my chest.

Your eyes, she said. How very green they are.

My heart pounded and the pace of my breath quickened. She licked the tops of her lips and slightly opened her mouth. I lowered my head to hers and touched her soft lips with my own. A mild jolt passed through me. She gently pushed her tongue onto my lips. My arms locked around her and I drew her to me.

My mind went blank. She opened her lips and pressed her tongue to mine. I ran my hands over her back and through her hair. Everything about her was delicious. The first kiss lasted a long time, but it was too short to suit me. She was the one who pulled away. Her eyes were wide and her cheeks flushed.

How very strong you are, she said with a slight surprise. Such power... such desire... such ambition...

Who are you? I asked again.

With her fingertips, she gently traced the outline of my lips.

Does it matter? she replied.

I was completely absorbed in her. She unleashed in me a passion I’d never known. In that orchard, holding her in my arms, this woman enthralled me. I led her to my rooms and she followed. I quickly banished my servants and bolted shut the thick wooden doors. She quietly stood in the middle of the room and waited. At that moment, nothing in the universe existed, except this enchanting woman and me.

We stood facing each other, my hands on her shoulders, hers on my hips. I couldn’t stop gazing into her unusual eyes. Like pools of clear blue water, they were deep and inviting.

Have you ever been with a woman? she asked.

No, I said and shook my head. I’ve never been with a woman.

Tonight will be special for you and for me, she replied with an enticing smile.

I moved my lips to hers and we kissed intensely. She ran her hands over me and felt everything. She kissed the side of my neck and gently whispered in my ear. Do as you please. Tonight, I’m yours.

Her beautiful gown must have cost a small fortune. I tried to remove the garment but I could see no buttons or snaps.

Tear it off, she whispered.

I put my hand between her breasts and stripped the dress from her flesh. I ripped away every piece of her clothing until she was naked. She shyly crossed her arms over her bare breasts. Seeing her so vulnerable increased my desire. I flung away my clothes and lifted her off her feet. I carried her to my bed and softly placed her on the blankets. Her face was warm and her cheeks flushed. She had long, blonde eyelashes. In the fading daylight I looked into her eyes.

You are so beautiful, I said.

So are you, she replied and pulled me on top of her.

Her naked flesh against mine made my blood rush. I held her breasts and licked her nipples. I wanted to kiss and lick every part of her. We took turns exploring and enjoying each other. I ran my lips and mouth over her neck, then she ran hers over mine. My every effort was met with a like one from her. With her hands she firmly held me. With her fingernails she scratched and playfully teased me.

Before I entered her she forced me onto my back. She worked her lips down my belly and took me into her mouth.

Oh, I gasped and dug my fingers into the sheets. Such intense pleasure was new to me.

Before I released, she brought her face to mine.

Not yet, she whispered.

She sat on top and slowly worked me all the way inside of her. She threw back her head and flung away the silver hairpiece. Her long locks burst free and covered her shoulders and the sides of her face. She rocked up and down and moaned with pleasure. I threw her on her back and pressed on top of her. I pushed myself deep inside. She raised her soft thighs and ran her feet over my calves.

Do as you please, she invited.

She wrapped her arms around me and took everything I had. The harder I went, the deeper she kissed me.

Give it to me, she whispered.

With a last push, I exploded. My eyes closed and I knew an ecstasy like nothing before. She softly ran her fingers through my hair and gently blew onto my sweating cheeks. I rolled onto my back and let out a deep sigh. When my eyes opened, she was gazing into me. There was softness in her face. I wanted her more than ever. She snuggled next to me and allowed me to hold her and bathe in her warmth.

I was someplace between awake and dreaming when I heard dogs barking. She quickly pushed me away and jumped to her feet. In a flash, the fragments of her white dress reassembled onto her skin. The barking grew near. The beasts were in the cherry orchard moving toward my rooms. The sounds of the angry animals were deep and powerful, a wild, fierce howl, which changed to a boiling growl as the animals neared.

Fear was in her face.

I have to go! she said.

Wait! I’ll come with you.

I jumped to my feet and drew on my pants. She hurried to the window and frantically looked into the night. She quickly turned and ran to doors. With surprising strength she threw back the heavy iron bolt and pushed open the entrance. I rushed to her and grasped her arm.

Wait!

Her eyes were wide and her face concerned.

He sent his beasts to find me! I must hurry.

She shook free of my grasp and ran. My practice sword hung next to the door. I grasped my weapon and dashed after her. She flew through the night with grace and speed. Try as I might, I couldn’t catch her. I called her but she wouldn’t stop. I followed her into the orchard where I lost her in the rows of trees.

Where are you? I called.

The orchard was dark. The only light was from a crescent moon. I moved among the trees, desperately searching for her. To my left, I heard an angry snarl. To my rear, heavy breathing followed me. I stopped and let the leather sheath slip from my sword. Silver moonlight reflected off the razor sharp blade.

In another row, a few feet away, she stood with her back pressed to a tree. A black animal crouched before her. It had thick shoulders and stout legs. The beast’s long tail flicked back and forth like a whip. When she tried to move the beast jumped and kept her pinned to the tree. The animal crept slowly toward her. A low fearsome growl rolled from its open mouth.

Don’t move! I yelled.

The beast snapped its face to me. It appeared to be a dog, but it was unlike any dog I’d ever seen. The animal had small, round eyes, which glowed red in the dark. Long, white teeth sprouted from its huge jaws. From behind I heard another beast. The two of them had me trapped. They crept closer. I glanced at the lady. This was her chance to run but she watched in silence.

The first animal roared and leapt at my face. With practiced precision, I rolled to my left and slit open its belly. The other beast charged my legs but the attack was too slow. With a single slice, I took off its head. I stabbed each of the fallen beasts in the heart, twice to be sure. I stood over the dead animals, breathing deeply. She slowly walked to me and lightly touched my face.

I knew you were different, she said. I knew it.

I dropped my weapon and wrapped her in my arms. She allowed me a last kiss, which was far too short. Throughout the orchard, desperate voices called my name.

Your father searches for you. Time for me to leave.

I wouldn’t let her go but she gently pushed away.

I’ll follow you, I promised. No matter where you go, I’ll find you.

Smiling at me, she slightly shook her head. Not this time.

She put her palm on my chest and a sharp pain cut deep inside me. I gasped and dropped to a knee. She slowly backed away and I desperately extended my hand.

Wait...

She lightly touched her fingers to mine.

We’ll meet again, she said. I promise.

The white of her dress faded into the shadows. The pain in my chest ebbed and I rose to my feet. Soon, men of my father’s house guard were around me. Their weapons were drawn and their faces excited.

What manner of beasts are these? they asked.

I didn’t know and I didn’t care. The magical lady was gone, lost in the night, and I had no idea who she was or where I might find her. I rushed to the banquet hall and feverishly questioned all in my path.

Have you seen her? The lady in white? Who was she? Where has she gone?

My questions were met with empty expressions and polite shakes of the head. None of our many guests remembered her or could give me any information. All that remained of her visit was a silver hair ornament.

From memory, I commissioned a life-size painting. I mounted the portrait on a carriage and traveled with it to all the villages and hamlets near our estate. I asked everyone, young and old, to view the image, but none recognized her.

I displayed the portrait in my rooms and bade each guest and visitor to please tell me they knew her. They all extolled her remarkable beauty but to my great disappointment none had ever seen her. Weeks and months went by with no sign or word from her.

Late at night, when my studies were complete, I sat before the canvas and remembered her scent, her touch, her elegance. Often Lucilus entered my rooms and placed his firm hand on my shoulder. He looked at her likeness and softly whispered: She is an illusion. Like beauty itself, she isn’t real.

He advised me to put her out of my mind. In this one instance, I didn’t listen.

My education continued. With each passing month I gained skill. My father slowly released control of his empire to me. Each venture I attempted met with success. I tried everything to get her off my mind. I found the only activity which fully focused my thoughts was combat. More and more I trained with constant encouragement from Lucilus.

You were born to rule, he would say.

With my vast and ever-growing wealth, Lucilus and I equipped and trained an army. We drilled them and drilled them again. I instructed my soldiers and their officers in all forms of tactics and maneuver. I knew exactly what I wanted and I settled for nothing less than perfection. From sunrise till sundown I worked them and molded them into an extension of my own mind. I practiced all the battles I knew were coming. Every soldier, every horsemen, knew his place. The slightest misstep was severely punished.

Each night without fail, no matter how exhausted I was, I went to her portrait.

Where are you? I pleaded to the lifeless canvas. Why can’t I find you?

A night never passed without a dream of her.

One day, in the heat of the sun, Lucilus fell ill. I rushed to him but there was nothing I could do. I held my tutor in my arms and cried. You can’t die! I’m not ready.

A smile forced its way to his worn face.

You were born ready, he said.

His hands trembled and his head shook slightly. He’d been with me so long that I’d failed to notice how old and frail he’d become. He beckoned me to lower my ear to his lips. With his remaining strength he taught a final lesson.

Avoid mercy, he said in a dying whisper only I heard.

With my mentor dead and my studies complete, my course of action was clear. At the age of twenty-one, I led my soldiers over the borders of Aros in search of conquests. My enemies underestimated me. They thought me only a boy. Employing the knowledge I obtained from years of study, I fell upon those who stood against me with unexpected swiftness and brutality. My ambitions were being realized.

I led my men into battle. Arrows, javelins, and knives flew past my ears. Many fell around me but I was never injured. Only in the fiercest contest, when my life hung in the balance, did I not think of her. My lieutenants tried to hold me back but I plunged headfirst into the thick of combat. I was driven by two all-consuming passions: my constant longing for her, and my intense love of war.

The territory under my control expanded. My battle-hardened soldiers spoke with pride of their green-eyed general who leapt into battle.

To those who opposed me I offered no kindness or compassion. I was relentless in my conquests. Cities were burned to ash, hundreds of thousands put to the sword. I took no pleasure in their suffering; I was simply indifferent to it. I meant to conquer the world, no matter the consequences.

In each new territory, I exhibited her painting. My hopes were constantly dashed. Sometimes I heard rumors based on silly superstitions. The peasants and the uneducated spoke in murmurs and whispers of a white angel whose gifts were better refused.

My wealth and power expanded to levels unheard of. I possessed everything this world had to offer, but it often seemed empty and meaningless. The frustration and torment of never finding her made me harsh and cruel.

Those I had yet to defeat soon offered me lavish bribes. They reasoned it was preferable to send gold, rather than order their armies into the field where they would be crushed. Emissaries and diplomats from all nations and cities, far and wide, offered me generous treaties and vast booty if I promised not to invade. Soon my influence stretched to every corner of the known world. The King of Kings they called me.

I carried her painting with me everywhere. In the late hours of the night, when I sat alone, I stared at her likeness and tried to remember. I spent too much time alone. Of course I had no friends or confidants, or anyone who truly cared for me. They all respected and feared me, but no one loved me. How could they? I was cold and distant. I could order someone killed without a thought. The only love I knew was the memory of this woman.

By the age of forty, there were no more battles to fight, no more enemies to conquer. I ruled supreme.

Having searched the world, I began to believe I would never find her, so I sought a replacement. I sponsored parties on my grand estates. All manner of women offered themselves to me. But just as before, none caught my eye.

Each time I descended a flight of stairs or entered a room, I held out the faintest hope I might see her. Constantly I searched the halls, gardens, and orchards for an alluring woman in a white dress wearing a mask of feathers. The corner of my eye often caught glimpses but when I turned, she was never there.

Many believed me insane.

He’s the crazy king in love with a painting, they said.

They thought the many battles separated me from my wits. Sometimes I wondered if they were right.

I constructed a vast palace and left its walls only to supervise my building projects. The days and months of my life slowly passed. No treacherous plot ever succeeded nor did any weapon find me but time ground down my soul. The passing years brought frailty and isolation. Fear and paranoia slowly crept into me. I saw schemes and plots where there were none. My decisions lacked the clarity they once had. I became even more callous and brutal. On my orders entire cities were destroyed for the most minor infraction.

In my youth I’d scorned and mocked death; now with darkness so near I feared it. I could not escape the terrifying image of my decaying flesh falling away while I lay motionless in a cold, empty tomb. I ordered my physicians and alchemists to all corners of the world in search of a method to postpone death but there was no elixir or potent to save me.

We have no antidote for time, they confessed.

I had them all executed. I spent my dwindling days and nights alone, fixated on her picture. I had aged and withered but in the painting, she was young and perfect. My mind would only think of her that way. I feared I would go to my tomb without seeing her again.

My strength was fading. I’d seen my last sunrise. I banished my attendants from my room and had the doors bolted shut. I positioned my head on my pillow so I could see her face. From her portrait, she looked back at me. My breath was short and shallow. How desperately did I wish she were there, that somehow I could relive that one night, over and over again!

Madness must have finally taken me. I shook my head and blinked. What was I seeing?

With death but a few moments away, her painting seemed to come alive. Then I realized she was there, actually standing at the edge of my bed, smiling at me. She wore the same white dress and held a long-stemmed red rose in her hand. She hadn’t aged a day, not a second. Her beauty radiated through the room. I tried to reach for her but lacked the strength.

She sat on the bed, very close to me. I could smell her and almost taste her. She ran her soft hand over my wrinkled face. How wonderful her touch felt. She shook her head.

My young prince, how sad it is to see you like this.

I couldn’t believe my own eyes.

Is it really you? I gasped.

She took a deep breath and made her red lips round. Gently she blew her sweet breath into my face. Vivid memories of that marvelous night flooded my mind. For a brief second, I was in the orchard, holding her and feeling her warmth against me. The images slipped away when I exhaled.

Her mouth formed an inviting smile.

Do you remember? she asked.

Yes, I said desperately. I remember.

And death, do you fear it?

Yes, I replied in an ever-weaker voice.

She lightly traced her fingernails over my dry, dying lips. She leaned her face close to mine and softly whispered. Can I trust you?

Yes, I pleaded.

She put her hands on my face.

Will you stand by me? she asked.

Yes, anything to be with you.

Those were my last mortal words. I was dying. At most, I had a few seconds. I felt the cold hand of death wrap his empty fingers around my soul and begin to pull me away. From the ring finger of her left hand, she removed a golden band with a dark red stone, similar to the jewel in her necklace. She placed the band on the ring finger of my left hand. She looked into mine with her mystical eyes.

Remember who gives you this life and your promise.

She leaned to my face and kissed me. I felt a sharp pain in my chest. The icy grip of death slipped away. My heart raced and she kissed me even deeper. My mind spun and my thoughts were in a daze. Strength rushed to my body and passion flooded my soul. I returned her kiss and pulled her to me. I was changing and lusting at the same instant. I sat up and ripped off the rags I wore. I rose from the bed and carried her with me. In the center of the room we held each other and kissed as we had all those years before.

I backed away and ran my hands over my face and my body. My skin was hard and my physique as it was in my youth.

I can’t believe it! I shouted.

I laughed out loud and so did she. I took her hands into mine and pulled her to me.

"What magic is this? I asked.

A very special kind, she replied.

We kissed and held each other and spun about the room. Seeing her filled me with such intense joy. I kept running my hands over her.

You are real, I said. You’re here, this is no dream.

I am real, she answered.

I wanted to feel her soft flesh and she knew it.

Tear it off! she shouted.

I ripped away her dress and pushed her onto the bed. Just as before, she welcomed me inside. I moaned when I pushed deep into her flesh. I was young and strong again. My arms rippled with muscles and I pulsed with blood. She smiled and ran her hands through my hair. She seemed to enjoy looking into my eyes.

How beautiful you are, she said.

This night no barking dogs chased her away. We made love for hours. At times I thought I died and this was all a dream. When she took me into her warm lips, I knew I was alive. At dawn she was resting on my chest with her naked breasts pressed to my ribs. I filled my lungs with morning air.

I thought I would never see the sun again, I said.

She pulled me from the sheets. Together we stood upon the open the balcony and looked onto dawn.

You’ve been reborn, she said and softly kissed my face.

I will send for you. When you come, remember your promise.

In an instant, the fragments of her dress gathered themselves on her skin. Her hair braided itself and she looked as if she had just arrived.

How will I know when you want me? I asked.

She touched my hand.

The ring will glow. It will lead you to me.

She backed away and was about to leave. I pulled her to me for one last kiss. Into her ear I whispered. I have always loved you. I conquered the world searching for you.

She gave me a warm smile.

I know.

Her hands slipped away. There was bright flash of white light and she was gone.

I stood naked before a mirror for hours. My mind wouldn’t accept what happened. I was young, with more power and strength than ever. My mortal life was over and I did not want it back. I had a new calling, even if I didn’t understand what it was.

Two

A horse, an old woman, and a bridge

After a life filled with duties and expectations I was suddenly freed of all responsibilities. I felt like a condemned man released from jail. I stuffed my pockets with gold coins, took my practice sword, and stealthily exited the palace which had so long served as my prison. Outside the thick walls was the world of the common man, a world I’d never known.

In my youthful appearance, no one recognized me. I roamed the crowded streets and alleys enjoying every minute of my freedom. I hadn’t realized how dirty the common person was. I’d spent a fortune to bring fresh water to the city; it was plentiful and free to everyone. Yet few people bathed or washed their clothes. Small wonder they were frequently ill.

It wasn’t long before I learned how reviled I’d been. The streets and courtyards filled with wild celebrations with the public announcement of my death.

Evil bastard, many said and spat at the ground.

Butcher! Hope he rots in hell!

How different the world seemed from the other side of the castle walls. I didn’t care they hated me. The person I’d been was dead.

After several lazy weeks I decided to travel the open country. Years had passed since I’d seen a forest or a lake. I needed a horse so I sought to purchase one. A small stable was located near the inn in which I housed. One morning I entered in search of a horse. While I reviewed the animals, a stable worker offered his unsolicited advice. He was a short man with a corpulent physique. His attire smelled of fresh dung and his hands were dirty. His smile revealed gnarled, rotten teeth.

Hello fine sir, need a horse do you? Perhaps I can—

Griffin! a loud voice rang through the building. Get to your work!

Yes, sir, the heavyset man meekly replied. Right away, governor.

From above the stalls a lean, well-dressed man gazed down at me. He closed his office door and gracefully descended the wooden stairs.

Pay no attention to him, I beg you, sir. He turned a fierce eye to the stable worker. Griffin is a worthless fool, nothing more. Regaining his composure, the gentleman extended his clean hand.

My name is Creshor, I own these animals.

He greeted my palm with a firm, hard squeeze. While he shook my hand, he took notice of my ring. I never offered my name and he didn’t ask. He raised his left hand and pointed to the stalls.

These sir, are ordinary animals; fit for ordinary men and ordinary tasks. You sir, require something more.

He led me to a back door, which opened onto a small pasture. Inside a wooden pen, a magnificent gray stallion stood. He had a thick mane, a fine muscular neck, and most excellent lines. The spirited horse pranced about the grass and dug its front hooves into the ground. He flared his nostrils and snorted at me. Creshor viewed the animal with great pride.

This, sir, is an extraordinary horse for extraordinary tasks.

How much? I asked.

Creshor patted me on the back and viewed my ring.

Her favor is more than adequate payment.

The horse, what’s his name? I asked.

He is Pavalus. Treat him well and he’ll never let you down.

Creshor provided me with the stallion, an excellent saddle, and two leather bags. I offered him coins but he adamantly refused.

No charge for you, he said.

I rode from the city, into the open country. How wonderful to be young and free of all expectations! For the first time in years I took notice of the colorful flowers, the plentiful green trees, and the sheer pleasure of being alive.

My lovely and mysterious benefactor was always on my mind. I wondered when I would see her again. I hoped the time would be soon. I had a deep desire to thank her for this new life.

I rode south for several weeks through the open country of Aros. I crossed into fertile provinces I’d personally never visited. One day, at sunset, I came upon a small hamlet. The fields were being harvested and plans were in progress for the annual festival. The village seemed like a good place to pass the night.

I stabled Pavalus and entered the only pub. The village locals greeted me with warm smiles and pleasant nods. At the bar I casually ordered ale. The cheerful landlady set a large, foaming tankard before me. She was about to say something when her eyes caught sight of my ring. The polished red stone on my finger was there for all to see. A look of abject terror filled the landlady’s face. In stunned horror, she backed away.

What concerns you? I asked.

Debt collector, she gasped and pointed a trembling finger at me.

Every voice in the bar went still, every eye stared my way. The men stood and the women fled to the door. The smiles and friendly gestures were instantly replaced with hard and cold expressions. A muscular man with a sun-worn face spoke. What business have you here? he demanded.

The other men reached for knives and various weapons.

I was thirsty. I wanted a drink, I replied.

The big man slammed his closed fist on the table. Who have you come for! he demanded.

I set down my ale and squared my shoulders. For a moment, I thought I still ruled. How dare you speak to me in that tone! I roared. How dare you! I shall place your heads on sticks! All of you! I’ll burn this village to the ground!

The power of my threat sent terror into the men. They dropped their weapons and ran for the door. They trampled each other in their haste to flee. Only the big man and I remained. While we stared at each other, I drank the rest of my ale.

Who have you come for? he asked again.

Like I said, I was thirsty.

I dropped a coin on the bar and walked through the door. The big man made no move to hinder my progress. A few moments before, the street was packed with people, now the dirt road was deserted. While I crossed the street, windows slammed shut and doors were bolted. In the empty stable, Pavalus was saddled and ready to ride.

I guess we’re not welcome here, boy, I said.

From that day on, I wore my ring with the red stone turned in.

I galloped through the night. The sky was clear and the country road free of traffic. The lights of the village could still be seen when I heard the whiz of an approaching arrow. With reflexes I didn’t know I had, I snapped my head out of the way. A second arrow caught me in the middle of the back. The sharp point dug deep into my flesh. The force of the blow knocked me from my horse. Footsteps ran toward me. I rose to my feet and drew my sword. I turned to face my four attackers. When they saw me standing, they froze.

He should be dead! one said. He’s got a bleeding arrow in his back!

Finish him! another ordered and pointed at me.

Three of them attacked but they were far too clumsy. Their slow movements were awkward and all too predictable. Their heads quickly fell from their shoulders and bounced on the dirt. The forth man was too terrified to run. I put the tip of my bloody sword under his chin.

Why did you attack me? I asked. Do I know you?

He spoke in choked fear. Your horse, we wanted your horse.

You would kill me for a horse?

Before he could answer I cut his throat. He slumped to the ground to join his dead companions. With considerable effort, I reached to my back and pulled out the arrow. The pain was almost unbearable but it soon passed. The bleeding stopped and the wound healed in a matter of minutes. Apparently, I had acquired a few extra talents.

I had very little time to think about the incident, because my ring began to shine. The stone gave off a soft red glow, clearly visible in the darkness. I pointed the ring to each corner of the compass. When I faced east, the ring turned ice cold, when I faced north, the stone glowed bright. She was calling me north, toward the Krekops Mountains. The thought of seeing her hastened my movements. I leapt into the saddle and gave Pavalus a kick.

Take me to her!

Away we sped, into the night. Soon we traveled quicker than any normal horse could run. Pavalus churned his mighty legs but it was magic that carried us along those dark roads. Over lakes and valleys we flew. The wind rushed in my face and trees and villages whisked by. I lost track of my whereabouts. We passed out of the lands of Aros, into very different terrain. We headed north, but into country I’ve never seen.

The roads became narrow and rough with stones. We descended into a valley of thick, tall trees. Branches overhung the roads and made the dark night ever darker. With little direction from me, Pavalus galloped on. Deeper into the forest we traveled, guided and pulled by the power of her ring.

The road ended upon the banks of a still pond covered in swirling white mist. Pavalus stopped and lowered his head to taste the clear water. I searched about, expecting to find a structure, or perhaps a path, but there was nothing but dense forest. This was a strange forest, very still and quiet. The cool water was most inviting, so I joined my horse for a drink. Before my cupped hands reached my mouth, a voice spoke from behind.

Help an old woman, will you?

Standing on the side of the road was a short, hooded figure. She leaned on a crooked wooden shaft, which she used to help her walk. She approached me and lowered her hood. Her face was old and ugly. She had empty, dry sockets in place of eyes. She wore a wicked expression on her face.

Help me over the pond, will you boy? she asked in a scratchy voice. I have no money, yet pay you I will.

I wasn’t afraid of her but she made me feel uneasy. I took my sword in hand.

Cut me down, would you now, boy!

Her words surprised me. How do you know I hold a weapon?

A wicked smile curled on her dry lips.

I have no eyes, but still I see. She pointed at me with a bent finger. I see a boy who’s not a boy, wearing a ring that’s not a ring, searching for a woman who’s not a woman.

Who are you? I demanded.

Who am I? HA! Who are you? That is the question.

Enough riddles old woman!

I mounted my horse and searched for a means over the pond. The ring was glowing bright. I had to be near her but I saw nothing. The old woman put her cold, bony hand on my leg.

Help me boy and I’ll help you. Carry me across the pond.

Try as I might, I could see no way across. Perhaps Pavalus and I could swim but the other side was lost in mist. I had no gauge of the distance. We might get halfway and drown. The old witch dug her fingers into my leg.

Take me over, boy! I’ll show you where she is. The special lady you seek.

Her face held a hideous smile. She revolted me but there seemed to be no other choice. I picked her up and sat her on the back of Pavalus. She weighed much more than I expected. She put her thin arms