Yrsa and the Wakers: Tales of a Melder, #2

By Alex J Markson

After defeating the sorcerer queen in book one of the enticing Tales of a Melder series, Yrsa's adventures continue ...

Yrsa spends the winter with Prince Varluss at Demburan, where he delivers on a promise to teach her to read, and to use the sword she was bequeathed by Amluss. She learns more of the weapon's history, as well as her own szanka.

 

When two women are kidnapped from one of the kingdom's most isolated towns, she joins a troop of guards on a rescue mission into the Outlands, a little-known region to the north. Joining the party is Nestryn, a rich trader and father to one of the missing women.

 

Old ruins dot the Outlands, echoes of the Gessene Empire which once conquered the land. Now, it is home to descendants of that time, struggling to make a living, as well as many others who have chosen to disappear from the world for a variety of reasons.

 

As the group follow the trail of the women and their abductors, they are drawn into a dispute between one of the local leaders and a man who once worked for her. The trail takes them to the edge of the northern wastes and the last slave trading town, before forcing them to take sides in a conflict.

 

Along the way, Yrsa encounters a woman who tries to trick her into serving a krystylyn, makes a new friend in Taigrun, and learns more about herself.

This is the second book in the Tales of a Melder series, which blends mystery and adventure in a fantasy world much like our own, but in another time and another place. The series is suitable for a general adult audience.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Parignon Press
• Release date: Oct 13, 2023
• ISBN: 9798223320265

Book preview

Chapter 1

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There were worse places than Demburan to spend the winter. Yrsa had grown up in the Valleys, where winters were harsh, even though they were close to the sea. When the snow came, it stayed for weeks, sometimes even settling on the frozen water in the bays.

Things were rather different in Demburan. The city was built at the foot of a range of mountains that rose sharply above it to the north. When the wind came down from those peaks, the temperature plummeted, and snow came in heavy blizzards, settling in deep drifts.

But a few days later, the wind would change, and warmer air from the south blew the cold away. The snow seemed to melt overnight, and you woke up to a changed landscape. To Yrsa, it was bizarre, but the people of the city were used to it. On the cold days, they stayed indoors, making no attempt to struggle through the deep snow. They saved their energy for the warmer days, when life returned to something like normal.

Life in the citadel was comfortable, though it made her feel guilty. She was used to fending for herself: preparing food, clearing up, and washing her clothes. Even when she’d been living in Prince Varluss’s quarters after he stayed in Caropa, she had looked after herself. Going to the kitchens to find food, and tidying the rooms.

But once he returned with his household, that changed. He had staff to do everything for him; they did the same for her, and she found it difficult.

If you need anything, just ask someone, he said. But she didn’t like to, it felt odd, and Varluss quickly saw her discomfort. You need a maid, he said after a couple of days.

A maid? she replied, with some horror. I can look after myself.

A companion, then, who knows how the household works. I think I know just the person.

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Yrsa spent the night in a huff, partly hurt that Varluss thought she needed help, partly embarrassed by knowing he was probably right. She had no idea how a prince’s household worked. She didn’t know who anyone was or where to find anything. But she didn’t want some old retainer hovering about her all the time.

The next morning after Varluss had left to attend to business, there was a knock on the door. Yrsa was still in bed and assumed it was the prince’s valet returning to resume his duties.

Come in, she called, wrapping the blankets tighter around her naked body. She was surprised when Farona entered the room.

Good morning, lady, the girl managed to say before Bodro and Pek jumped up from their places by the fire to greet the friend they hadn’t seen in weeks. Bodro and Pek were zeffen, a type of canid, almost as large as a pony and, according to myth and legend at least, ferocious and terrifying.

Farona had helped to nurse Bodro after his battle with the queen in Caropa, and the brothers loved her. Before she knew it, she was on the floor, the zeffen making a big fuss of her, though given their size, it could be a frightening experience for those unfamiliar with them.

Come on, boys, Yrsa said, sitting up. Let Farona draw breath. They backed off, and the girl stood, smoothing her clothes. It’s good to see you, Yrsa continued. I didn’t know you’d come back with Varluss, or I would have come to find you, or at least sent these two to say hello.

I’d had enough of Caropa, Farona replied. There isn’t enough work for me in the palace when he isn’t there, so I asked if I could join the household full time.

It’s a long way from your home.

We all have to leave our families some time, lady. Yrsa had told Farona some of her story and accepted the reminder with a smile. The prince came to see me this morning and told me to put myself at your disposal. I gather you need a maid.

There is some truth in that, and some untruth.

Lady?

I’m not used to living like this, Farona. I don’t know where anything is, and I’m not used to having people wait on me. It’s Varluss who thinks I need a maid.

Whereas what you really want is someone who knows their way around, and won’t fuss over you.

Exactly.

Well, I don’t know this place that well yet, but I know everyone in the household, and I’m not afraid of any of them.

You’re hired, Yrsa replied, laughing at Farona’s good spirits. But on one condition.

Lady?

You’re my companion, not my maid, and I’m Yrsa, not Lady. You know that from Caropa.

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Farona’s presence made life much easier. She did indeed know just about everyone; who they were, and what they did. She knew her way around the main areas of the citadel, and together, they explored the bits they didn’t know.

Bodro and Pek followed them everywhere, as curious as ever. More people knew them now, though many were still wary of these huge animals which looked something like dogs, but clearly weren’t. They wore the collars the king had given them as a reward. Yrsa had tried to explain their meaning.

‘If we wear them,’ Pek vayed, ‘it makes people fear us less?’

Yes.

‘Why?’

Yrsa was stumped for an answer.

Well, she finally said, we often put collars on our dogs. I guess it gives the impression that they’re under control. But sometimes it’s to chain them up.

‘We’re always well-behaved,’ Bodro replied.

I know that, but those who haven’t met you don’t. Are the collars uncomfortable?

‘No, we’re happy to wear them. We just want to understand why.’

* * *

Do you ride? Yrsa asked Farona one day.

I’ve never had reason to. I grew up in Caropa, and the few times I’ve left the city to come here, I’ve ridden in a cart or walked.

Do you like horses?

The Burans scare me. They’re so big.

Let me introduce you to my team.

It was one of the warmer days. The remnants of snowdrifts dotted the courtyard as they crossed it and entered the stables, where a few guards were tending their mounts. They reached the prince’s stable and found his groom brushing Semlac, his personal mount.

Good morning, Yrsa called out as they passed.

Morning, Lady Yrsa, came the now standard reply.

Her stall was empty, and the door open to the paddock. Outside, her horses were grazing, scraping the remaining snow to reveal the sparse fresh grass.

The little one is Brimble, she told Farona. I’ve had her since we were both young. The middle one is Lucky, and the Buran is Tennell.

Hearing her voice, all three came over to greet her. She noticed Farona back away as Tennell drew near.

This is Farona, Yrsa told them. She nursed Bodro after he was injured in Caropa. She’s not used to horses, so be gentle with her. She turned to Farona. Just let them say hello.

She stood back as each, in turn, stepped towards Farona, gently nuzzled her, and let her stroke their heads, before wandering off to resume their grazing.

The way you talk to animals, Farona said. It’s as if they understand you. Yrsa winced, remembering what Rald had said: keep her skills secret. She shouldn’t have spoken out loud to them. I’ve heard about Tennell, Farona continued, oblivious. She’s huge. I don’t know how you control her.

I don’t have to. She’s a very smart animal and Amluss trained her well. I merely have the privilege of riding her. A horse will never do something it doesn’t want to do. You have to have an understanding. We’ll get you on one yet.

The frown on Farona’s face told Yrsa that might be some way off.

* * *

Yrsa soon settled into a routine. Varluss rose early in the morning and went off to do whatever it was a prince does. Yrsa still wasn’t sure what that entailed.

She visited her horses every day to spend time with them, and ride Tennell. She never lost the thrill of thundering around the big meadows on her back, and it often attracted spectators. The stable was full of Burans, but there were none to rival the mare’s size, power and finesse.

The rest of the day she spent with Farona. In the cold spells, they stayed in the citadel, talking and exploring. When the weather was better, they explored the city and surrounding countryside with Bodro and Pek, who gradually gained acceptance as people met them and got to know them.

They were helped by the rumours circulating about the events in Caropa the previous autumn. An official version had been issued, but it had been brief and carefully worded. The rumours were anything but brief, though muddled and often full of salacious nonsense. But the gist seemed to be that the two zeffen had somehow rid the country of an evil queen with unnatural powers. It was enough to give them hero status in many people’s eyes.

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The nights were good, as well. She and Varluss were enjoying each other, and keen to explore all the possibilities of their relationship. But Yrsa had made a deal with the prince. She’d agreed to stay for the winter and share his bed. In truth, as he pointed out several times, she got as much from that as he did.

But he had made a promise in return. Two, in fact. To teach her to read, and to use a sword. It was time for those promises to be honoured.

Chapter 2

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You’re going to do what? Captain Darian asked, roaring with laughter.

Yrsa wants to learn to use a sword, Varluss replied. I’m going to teach her.

Darian had returned the previous day from a tour of the eastern borders. It had been delayed by the events of the autumn, and couldn’t be put off any longer. Caropatia had been at peace for many years, but borders still need guarding, and soldiers still need to see their commanders.

Tonight, after he’d given his report to the prince, Darian and his wife had come to dine. It was the first time Yrsa had met Exella, and she wasn’t sure what to make of her. She said little but watched and listened intently. Her dark skin and accent indicated an origin in places Yrsa had only heard of in stories. Several times, she noticed Exella studying her.

And what is wrong with me teaching her? Varluss asked, a pained expression on his face.

Oh, nothing, my prince, Darian replied. I can think of no one better. He chuckled again. Well, hardly anyone.

I can handle a sword.

Cousin, you can. But you have never used it in anger.

That is true.

And you have never trained anyone.

What do you suggest, then? Are you offering to train her?

I have a better idea. Yrsa, are you serious about this?

I’m not looking to play at it, she replied.

What do you have in mind? Varluss asked.

Darian stroked his chin for a while, looking intently at Yrsa, until he finally made a decision.

This year’s cadets have finished their basic fitness and drill training,’ he said, ‘and start with Yakoz next week.

Are you serious? Varluss replied. Yakoz wouldn’t do it.

Who is Yakoz? Yrsa asked impatiently. And what wouldn’t he do?

Yakoz is a difficult, obstinate, law unto himself, Darian said. But he’s the finest weapons trainer I’ve ever met. He taught me, and most of the men we have.

If he taught you, Exella said softly, he is surely too old to still be teaching.

She and her husband shared an affectionate look.

He is an old man now, Darian conceded. But he could still beat any man we have, including me. And you, Varluss.

I don’t doubt it, the prince replied. But I doubt he’s ever trained a woman. Nor would he.

Does he not work for you? Exella asked. Can you not order him?

He has his own ways and he’s too valuable to rein him in too tightly.

Yrsa, Darian said. If he agrees, he’ll probably go out of his way to make it as hard as possible for you. Are you keen enough to handle that?

If he’s half as good as you say, yes.

I’ll speak to him tomorrow.

Perhaps we should both speak to him? the prince added.

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The conversation moved to other topics, and Exella came to sit by Yrsa.

I’m so pleased to meet you at last, she said. Darian has told me all about you, but I never know if he gets his story right. You know what men are like. I was hoping to meet these creatures of yours, but I find they’re not here.

I think they’re with Farona. We can go and find them, if you like.

They left the men to their discussions and went out into the corridors, quiet now the day was coming to an end. Yrsa had a good idea where they might find their quarry and headed to the kitchens.

Exella asked how she’d found the zeffen, and Yrsa told the story as they walked. When they arrived, they found Farona sitting in a chair to one side of the huge fireplace. Bodro and Pek were stretched out, occupying the whole width of the now waning fire. Seeing Yrsa, they slowly rose, stretched, and trotted over to greet her and their new visitor. She introduced Farona to Exella, then turned to the zeffen.

This is Bodro, and that’s Pek.

Exella was enchanted, and let them sniff her hands before ruffling the fur on their heads.

I was not misled, she said. They are marvellous animals. But I have never seen dogs as big as this.

I’m not really sure what zeffen are. I suspect they’re only distantly related to our dogs.

My children would love them.

I didn’t know you and Darian had children.

He keeps quiet about them, Exella replied, smiling. He thinks he has to be this stern soldier all the time. But he’s a big sweetheart really, and he gives us a world of love.

How long have you been married?

We’re not technically married, Exella replied.

Oh, sorry.

It’s not a problem, but a long and complicated tale which I won’t bore you with. He saved my life, then I saved his, and I fled here with him. We’ve been together for fifteen years now.

I guess this place is rather different from your home.

It is, but I wouldn’t leave now for anything.

* * *

Yrsa hid in the side chamber to Varluss’s office when Yakoz arrived the following morning.

I gather you wanted to see me, Varluss, the man said without ceremony.

Yes, Yakoz, the prince replied. Darian tells me the new cadets begin their training with you next week.

I expect they’ll be the usual rabble.

How many this year? Darian asked.

Six, I’m told.

I have a favour to ask, Varluss said.

So, ask.

I have someone I’d like to add to your class.

Another cadet?

Not exactly, he replied, before raising his voice. Yrsa.

She entered the room and walked towards the desk. Yakoz was staring at her, looking her up and down. He turned to Varluss.

That’s a woman, he said.

Indeed it is, the prince replied. And she wants to learn how to use a sword.

Yakoz turned to look at Yrsa again.

I don’t train women.

Don’t, won’t or can’t? Yrsa asked, making both Varluss and Darian wince. But Yakoz’s expression didn’t change.

I never have, he said calmly.

It would be a new challenge, then, Yrsa replied. Their eyes met, and they held each other’s gaze. Eventually, it was Varluss who broke the silence.

I would be grateful if you would do this as a special favour, Yakoz. At least give Yrsa a chance.

Silence fell again, as Yakoz thought the matter over.

I wouldn’t expect any special treatment, Yrsa finally said.

You won’t get any, Yakoz replied. Turn up with the others, and we’ll see if you survive.

He nodded briefly to Varluss and Darian, before turning and walking to the door, Yrsa noticing he had a pronounced limp.

Well, the prince said, I think that went as well as can be expected.

* * *

Yrsa stood as confidently as she could, the leather-handled, wooden sword in her left hand. Why did Yakoz have to choose her? She knew, of course. She was the only woman in the group. The only woman he’d ever taken on to train. She could see the amusement - or disdain - on his face, as he stood a few paces away, waiting for her attack. His arms were hanging loosely by his side, his training sword in his right hand.

She didn’t know what to do. This was their first day, and the old soldier had challenged any of them to try their luck, before calmly handing the sword to Yrsa. But the one thing she wasn’t going to do was back down. She took a few steps towards him, raised her sword, and brought it down towards Yakoz’s body, expecting him to parry it.

Instead, he dropped under it and rolled forward. As he passed her right leg, his sword hit the back of her knee, causing her leg to buckle and she ended up in a heap on the floor. Before she could get up, the tutor’s sword was on her neck. Yrsa fumed silently, while the rest of the group laughed.

Silence, Yakoz said, removing the sword, and allowing Yrsa to get up. She walked over to the bench and sat down with the six cadets, a mixed bunch of lads a few years younger than her, about seventeen or eighteen.

I’ll wager not one of you would have done any better, their instructor continued. I’m going to teach you how to use this. He held the training sword in the air. "I’ll try and lodge the finer points of swordsmanship in your thick heads. But the lady here has taught you the most valuable lesson. Fighting isn’t about grace and fancy moves; it’s about winning any way you can.

My name is Yakoz, he said. "I don’t come from this land, but I’ve been here too long to leave now. I’m an old man but don’t take that as licence to try and make a fool of me, for you’ll regret it if you do. I’m going to teach you one thing. How to disable anyone who tries to do you harm.

"You will note, I did not say kill. I’ve seen more than enough death in my time, and I hope you never have to witness some of the things I’ve seen. Killing is a last resort, an incidental side effect. But it is not the aim. The aim is to keep yourself safe. If you put someone down with a bloody wound or render them unconscious, that’s usually enough.

As you’ve just seen, it’s not all about fancy footwork or waving your sword about. It’s not even about strength. It’s about using this. He tapped his head. The winner will usually be the one who thinks quicker, moves quicker, spots a weakness in the other man. He looked at Yrsa with amusement. "Or woman.

As you see, lads, we have a girl joining our class. Special favour to the prince. One or two of the cadets sniggered. "I’ve never trained a girl before, and I’m not sure she’ll keep up. She’s asked for no special treatment, and I’ve assured her she’ll get none. But nor will any of you.

So, listen to what I say, do what I tell you, and we might get somewhere. Any questions?

Sir, one of the lads said. My father gave me a sword. Can I bring it to training?

Anyone else got their own weapon?

Two other lads raised their hands, as did Yrsa, prompting a raised eyebrow from Yakoz.

They’ll all be junk, he said dismissively. For now, you’ll be using training swords. Wood and leather. They hurt, but at least you won’t be chopping each other’s arms off. When it’s time to practice with real steel, you’ll be issued with regulation ones. If you really want to use your own, I’ll let you bring them in, and then tell you why they’re not suitable.

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The next few days were hard. They were given training swords but hardly used them in anger. They copied Yakoz, who stood at the front, demonstrating different stances, different positions, and different swings of the blade. They did it for hours. And learnt one thing. Swords were heavy. The training version felt light when you first picked it up, but it weighed the same as a standard sword. Hours of wielding it, hours of holding it in an outstretched hand strained every muscle in your arm and shoulder.

A few of the lads were cocky and chatty at the beginning. By the end of the first week, they were silent, pushing through the pain to complete the exercises. Yrsa tried to cope by using both hands. Her left hand was dominant, but Yakoz had scoffed at wielding a sword that way.

When you’re fighting as a group, he said, you all need to fight the same side.

But I won’t be part of a group, Yrsa protested. He’d shrugged, and let her use her left. When the pain came, she tried the right, but all it seemed to do was make both sides hurt.

On the second day, Farona had a bath ready for Yrsa when she returned from training, and it felt good. She felt guilty, as the hot water had to be brought up from the kitchens, but Farona found a solution. She was an attractive young woman, and always managed to find a couple of lads in the citadel happy to carry the heavy pails for her.

‘What are you doing each day?’ Pek asked one evening, as she soaked in the bath.

‘I’m learning to use a sword.’

‘Amluss’s sword?’

‘Not yet. Just a wooden one.’

‘Can we watch?’

‘I’m not sure our tutor would agree.’

‘We’ll stay out of the way.’

‘I’ll ask, but it’s quite boring.’

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Yakoz was puzzled.

Your dogs? he asked. Why would you want to bring your dogs? This isn’t a game, you know.

But he couldn’t think of a reason to refuse, so the next day, Bodro and Pek accompanied Yrsa to the training area.

Silence fell as they walked in, the cadets staring wide-eyed at the zeffen. Yakoz looked at them with his usual calm.

Those are your dogs? he asked.

This is Bodro, and this is Pek. Boys, find somewhere to lie down.

The cadets watched the zeffen lope over to one side and settle themselves on the ground. One or two turned to study Yrsa. After a few initial ribald comments, they’d treated her no differently to each other. They were all hurting from the training and saw she was doing the same as them.

After the morning session, they stopped for lunch, and Yrsa called the zeffen to her. The others shrank back as they passed. She ruffled their heads, and they sat by her. Eventually, one lad offered his hand and Bodro sniffed it.

I’ve seen these two around the city, he said. With another woman.

He was stroking Bodro’s head now.

That would be my friend, Farona.

The others plucked up their courage and greeted the zeffen who loved the fuss. Yakoz was sitting to the side, eating his lunch and watching.

At the end of the day, he asked her to stay behind after the others left. He walked confidently over to the zeffen and stroked their heads.

"Am I right in thinking