Years of the Covenant: Part 9

"Vannolyn, Master Roh would like to see you." Darrien called out as Vannolyn was sparring with one of the other nightshaders just outside the entrance of Nightwatch. Darrien disappeared back inside without another word. Vannolyn followed shortly after.1

Silious and Darrien had returned from the Covenant Citadel four days earlier. They hadn't spoke much about what happened during the gathering of the council, and he'd been left to his own doings. But now it seemed like something was coming together.2

He placed his wooden, sparring sword on one of racks in the storage room and made his way towards Silious Roh's personal chamber. He knocked twice and cracked the door open.3

"You wanted to see me master?" Vannolyn announced.4

"Yes, Vannolyn, come in." Silious invited him inside. Darrien was already at a side table pouring each of them a glass of ale.5

"My boy, I have another mission for you and Darrien. But this time you two will be traveling father than you ever have." He said taking the mug that Darrien offered him. Vannolyn took his mug next, then Darrien sat down with them.6

"Are we finally retalliating against those damned Vecnians?" Vannolyn asked, taking a huge swig of his ale.7

"No, that's been dealt with for now, but I'm sure we'll have to deal with it again. But that's neither here nor there." Silious replied, drinking some of his ale as well. "The mission I have for you is much different than anything you've done so far. It comes from the Presiding Night himself ... Darrien, would you care to explain?"8

Darrien leaned back and took a long swig of his ale. He wiped his mouth and then began to speak. "Someone has taken a keen interest in our home, someone who has no business here. An elven cleric of Pelor named Estyn Cauth has discovered several portals leading to the Shadow Plane. He knows too much, especially for someone who worships a god of light."9

"So how are we to dispose of him?" Vannolyn asked, already sure that he would have to die.10

"A tournement is going to be held in the Pelennex Kingdom in three days, and Cauth is one of the competitors. You and I will enter as competitors as well, and whoever finds the opportune moment should strike at will."11

"Are you telling me ... that I'm returning to the Material Plane?" Vannolyn asked, taking a large swig and finishing his ale.12

"Yes Vannolyn, that's exactly what we're saying." Silious answered him. "I've magically configured the portal in the Harkal Manor to link directly with the eastern portal located in the nexus chamber. A pair of horses are waiting for you in the estate stables. Several of our men have gone on ahead as back up. You two will have to leave by the next day, its two days ride to reach Pelennex. So gather your things, and prepare to leave.13

"Thank you, master." Vannolyn said, not knowing what else to say. He shook his hand and started making his way out of his master's chamber.14

"Oh, you'll need these. Just ask Darrien, he'll instruct you in how to use them." Silious added. Vannolyn held out his hand and Silious produced two small leather pouches. He didn't know what they were, but he knew better than to question his master.15

With that their meeting had concluded. Vannolyn departed to his private chamber and gathered all his weapons, his clothes, and anything else he might need.16

He still couldn't believe it, the time had finally come. After so long of living in darkness on the Shadow Plane, he was going to see the light of day again. He would embrace this mission like none other before.