Sky of Shadows Section 5

The structure to which Brysen lead the companions was crudely put together. The boards were worn and so weathered that parts of them were splintered and peeling in curls. A roof was thrown together with bows crisscrossing each other and leaves lain over them. Sunlight shot beams through the openings, giving the dirt floor a poke-a-dotted appearance.1

Brysen kneeled, dragging his short sword through the loose dirt. From the darken corner a shadowy figure shifted in its seat, but said nothing. The silence drew out in the damp afternoon and Brysen shifted uncomfortably on his knew. Still nothing was said from the murky corner.2

Whetu glanced around her, noting first the absence of guards and other such persons. In the middle of the structure, under a blaze of one lantern, was a table. Atop was a map of the area, but as she moved a little to get a better advantage the lantern dimmed. There was no other source of light.3

“Please step away from the table, miss,” a pleasant alto voice sailed on the stale air.4

Whetu stopped in mid-stride and folded her hands at her waist. The sleeves of her robe slipped down to cover all but the tips of her long fingers. She nodded her head and stepped back.5

Again the voice came out of nowhere. “Brysen, who have brought to me?”6

Brysen hesitated before slowly rising. “The Sisters Sonja and Tonya from Tempest.”7

The figure sat forward and the dancing flame threw shadows a cross a baby smooth face. Meticulously shaven cheeks and rounded chin graced a squared head. Like Brysen he wore his dark hair long, but unlike Brysen’s three beaded braids, the figure had six on his right temple. Whetu had found the one she sought, the leader of the Beast Riders.8

“And since when do the Sisters of Tempest approach on foot? Do not the Sisters command the wind and ride the clouds?” His white teeth flashed from behind chapped lips.9

“The wind is unpredictable and flighty at the best of times, and clouds are prima donnas and ask a high price for services.” Whetu responded smoothly. “We came on horseback. Horses are predictable and easily manipulated. A little feed, a kind word and they follow.”10

The figure chuckled lightly. “I am Micah, Rider of Talia.” He gestured towards Brysen. “You’ve met Brysen, my best scout, Rider of Sinacee.”11

Whetu nodded. “I am Sonja, senior Sister.” With a hand on Avalon’s back, Whetu nudged Avalon forward. “This is Sister Tonya, my apprentice. We are here to gather more information for the Sisters.”12

Micah stood, throwing shadows across the back of the building. The shadow loomed, filling up the room. Whetu could understand why this man had made leader so young. Power and confidence oozed off him and people stopped to watch him.13

“I presume you are the leader of this outfit.” Whetu stared at the Micah, head held high.14

“I am.” He placed thick fists on his hips.15

“Your words were cryptic in the last correspondence with the Sisters. We, the senior sisters, need more detailed instructions, in order to better serve your cause.”16

Micah stroked his chin while he listened to Whetu’s words. “Brysen, please take Tonya to get something to eat. The cook should be about ready with lunch.”17

Brysen lowered his head, his curls covering his dark eyes. “As you wish.” He grabbed Avalon’s forearm and started to turn her towards the door.18

“Whe-I mean Sonja?” Avalon asked uncertain. 19

“Go with the young beast rider Tonya. Eat and be friendly.” Whetu punctuated friendly, hoping she would understand. Sometimes a young man would open up to a pretty face over a full stomach.20

Avalon hesitated slightly before shuffling towards the faint light. Whetu nodded encouragingly as Avalon followed Brysen out the rickety door.21

“So Sister Sonja, what concerns does your order have?” Micah asked as the door creaked shut. Next to him was a small table, which held a pitcher of water. “Drink?”22

Whetu again nodded. Micah passed her a plain wooden cup, worn smooth from many uses.23

After a small sip Whetu asked, “My sisters want to be reassured that they are aligning themselves with the winning side and that things are running smoothly. Are you on track with Sorceress Kirsten?”24

Micah studied Whetu for a bit. Outside the building everyday chores were being preformed. Laughter roared a cross the camp and clanging of metal plates rang in the distant. Huffs and snorts from the beasts echoed behind the low murmur of camp talk. Roasting meat and sweat drifted through the cracks of the shack as Whetu waited for her answers.25

She calmly drank her lukewarm water while studying the young man in front of her. Broad shoulders, clothed in a Kelly green tunic, tapered down into a slim waist. Muscular thighs stretched the cloth of his trousers. Curiously enough his feet were bare.26

Micah caught Whetu looking at his feet intently. “It’s easier to feel the movements of Talia with my feet bare. I forget the put shoes on after I’ve been riding.” He explained lightly.27

“I see. Being a witch of air I can see where being bare would be an advantage.” Whetu responded.28

“Exactly,” exclaimed Micah heartily.29

Whetu cleared her throat, before continuing. “So, coming back to my original questions.” She slowly began gathering energy from the earth under her. It built until it felt like a small ball had buried itself inside her chest, resting beside her heart.30

Micah glanced at the cup he held at chest level as he smiled at a secret jest.31

Tiny hairs on the back of Whetu’s smooth neck stood up as her skin pimpled as if it were too cold. She slowly released her will, focusing on Micah’s thoughts.32

Micah shook his head as if trying to clear his ears of water. Whetu whispered under her breath a few words and Micah stopped fighting. “You will answer my question with honesty. Forgetting all distrust and lies. I am who I have claimed I am, Sonja of Tempest. Answer me now.”33

Micah straightened and stared over Whetu’s shoulder. The cup of water dropped from his hand and spilled onto the dirt floor.34

“What are your orders from Sorceress Kirsten?” Whetu asked circling behind Micah.35

“No orders from Sorceress Kirsten.” Micah recited even toned.36

“Who are you taking orders from?” Whetu asked after hesitating slightly.37

Hands clenching at his sides as he answered, “Reimund.”38

Whetu raised an eyebrow before going on smoothly. “This name is not familiar. Who is he?’39

“A nobody.”40

“Now that makes no sense. How can a nobody give you, the leader of the Beast Riders, an order?”41

“Sorceress Kirsten has made it known that we are to listen to Reimund.”42

Whetu continued to circle Micah until she came to the map she had been warned of. She surveyed it for a moment, still holding her will over Micah. The map stretched from one end of the Sylvan Region to the other. It was as large as she recalled it, though there were more settlements in the forest than she realized. She could find no reason to hide this map from prying eyes, unless, of course, Micah had reason to fear for the safety of the Riders. And then she noticed a part of the map that was torn so perfectly that the serrated edges were almost impossible to see.43

“Ah,” she said. “Here it is. Your little secret.”44

“I hold no secrets,” Micah said strangely. He was fighting her again. A strong will accompanied him, she noted. He was a fine leader, indeed.45

“A pity, really,” she said, “that you’ve chosen to become a mercenary. Now tell me, friend, where is the rest of the map?”46

“Gone,” Micah replied truthfully.47

“Gone where?” She circled back around to face his eyes.48

He stared blankly at her, still clenching his fists at his sides. “Gone.”49

“I see,” she replied vaguely. “Then what does the missing piece reveal? What lays to the north of this forest?”50

“Nothing,” Micah said fiercely, a sudden burst of independency surging through him. Whetu compensated for this new energy by drawing up on the air.51

“With such eagerness you defend it,” she said slowly, eerily. Her words glided through the air like smoke and surrounded Micah in a thick fog that clouded his thoughts. The lantern flickered against the wind and the trees bent with the flow.52

“It – I cannot – gone – there is nothi – uuunnhh…” the Beast Rider slumped forward in his chair, rendered unconscious by the effort he’d exerted to fight her.53

She sighed softly and released him. She could not pry his thoughts. Something powerful lay anchored in his mind. Perhaps a threat of death – or that of his beloved forest. It was obvious, however, that he was guarding whatever was to the north of the Sylvan Region. That would be their next road.54

She moved toward the door as it was pushed open. “My lord?” one of the younger Riders peeped.55

“Your lord is indisposed at the time,” Whetu replied, blocking the man’s path into the room. “Leave him be.”56

“What?” The Rider pushed into the room and saw Micah. “Traitor!”57

Whetu grabbed him by the shoulder as he turned back to her. She placed her fingers on his forehead and the man’s eyes rolled back into his head. She dropped him and he fell with a soft thud against the dirt. She hurried out the door, but the young man’s cry had already been heard by many of the others who had drawn swords and were waiting for her.58

“Do not make this mistake,” Whetu cautioned. “The rage of the Tempest is not something you should want to test.”59

“Witch,” one of the Riders snarled. He lunged forward but found that his target had vanished. When he turned back, she was behind him. A sudden, massive wind roared into the encampment, stirring up leaves and dust. The Riders were blinded by the whirlwind and Whetu made a swift retreat. She found the dining hall and gestured to Avalon.60

“Tonya,” she said, “we have concluded our business here. Let us leave.”61

“But I was just…” she looked at the food. It was good. But she knew Whetu was not going to wait. “Alright.”62

Brysen blocked their way. “Nay,” he said strongly. “We suffer no traitors in this camp.”63

He drew his sword and held the edge against Avalon’s neck. Whetu glanced around as the other Riders drew their weapons, ready to attack.64

“Tonya…” Whetu said, watching Avalon from the corner of her eye. “I believe these men are hot under the collar.”65

Avalon scrunched her nose and looked at Whetu. “What-”66

Whetu blinked, ever so carefully, barely noticeable. But Avalon saw it. Her eyes widened as she understood Whetu’s meaning. Brysen moved closer with his weapon.67

“You will come with us,” he said. “And the truth shall be discovered.”68

“Not just yet,” Avalon said. She presented an open palm to Brysen and with a grin, released a burst of fire. The Rider leapt back as the flames roared into the air and then whooshed toward him. The others scattered, trying to avoid the flames. Dazed for a moment, Avalon was snapped back to reality as Whetu tugged her arm. They took off into the forest, heading north.69

“What about the horses?” Avalon asked, struggling to keep pace with Whetu’s remarkable speed.70

“The Riders will not harm animals, it is not in their nature,” Whetu replied. “I will repay our debt when this ordeal has subsided.”71

Avalon wanted to ask more questions, but the sound of a bellowing roar made her freeze in place. She turned back toward the camp, startled by the noise. Whetu grabbed her arm and pulled her away. “Come, child. Do not dally.”72

Avalon hesitated a moment before deciding that she didn’t want to discover what beast had made such a racket. She followed Whetu closely. The woman led them to a brook that was just deep enough to wet Avalon’s legs to the knees. She shivered a little against the sudden chill of the water. As she waddled across the brook, Avalon heard the roar again. This time it shook the trees and scattered the birds.73

“They’re getting closer,” the girl said almost frantically.74

“That tends to happen when one gives chase,” Whetu said impatiently, already halfway across. “Now move. We can talk later. I have no desire to be killed today.”75

Avalon scowled at Whetu’s rebuke, but fell in line behind her without a word. Once across the brook, Whetu waited just long enough for Avalon to catch up with her before continuing northward. The trees behind them shook and the ground rumbled. Whetu rushed ahead and behind a large rock formation barely wide enough for her.76

“Here, child,” Whetu said quietly. She extended her arm and Avalon ran to her. Whetu swung her violet cloak over Avalon. The girl felt a small chill as the cloak closed around her.77

“How will this protect us?” Avalon asked, worried.78

“Hush,” Whetu replied. “They come.”79

Avalon pulled back a small section of the cloak and peeked out, curious. The trees across the brook bent and rattled. Then a large creature emerged. It was a dog the size of a small castle, its fur a silvery gray and its teeth a glistening white. It sniffed the air and bellowed a bark that sounded more like a dragon’s roar. It carried a single Rider on its back, though several others followed around it.80

One of the Riders looked at the water and knelt beside it. “The waters are stirred,” he said. “They came through here.”81

“There,” another said, pointing at the large rock.82

Avalon’s heart leapt into her throat as the other men looked their way. “They see us,” Avalon said shakily.83

“They see nothing,” Whetu replied. “Hush.”84

Avalon fell silent again as the Riders surveyed the rock formation. One of the leaders, a man with two braids of hair, spoke boldly, “No. This one is treacherous. She commands wind and fire, perhaps the water too. They try to divert us. We shall separate and find them. Tarac, you take the Cú Chulainn and search west, I will take my men and search east.”85

The men obeyed without hesitation. Avalon watched in shock as the Riders split up and as the giant dog thundered off to the west. Once they were out of sight, Whetu opened her cloak again and Avalon took a step toward the brook.86

“That was lucky,” she said.87

Smoothing the edges of her cloak, Whetu replied, “There is no such thing as luck.”88

Avalon turned back to Whetu, puzzled by what had just happened. She thought for a moment and looked at Whetu’s cloak. “It’d figure you’d have a magical coat.”89

“Come, our journey leads us north,” Whetu motioned toward the trees behind them. “And hopefully out of these accursed woods.”90

Avalon nodded and walked next to Whetu. For a while they traveled in silence, only the sounds of the forest surrounding them. In the end, though, Avalon’s curiosity got the better of her.91

“Whetu,” she said, “back there at the camp, when that fire, I mean… when I… how did I do that? I’ve never done that before.”92

“You didn’t,” Whetu commented casually. “I did. You’ll find that the minds of men are easily betrayed by simple parlor tricks. As a gypsy, you should know that.”93

“Oh. Yeah,” Avalon said. “Well, I tend to stick to tricks I understand. Such as pyromantics. See this bag?” She produced a small brown pouch from one of her pockets. It was just large enough to hold a few coins or a handful of salt. It was held closed by a drawstring and had the symbol of Pyraucilles, the fire god whose international symbol was an upward pointing triangle enclosed by a circle.94

Whetu glanced at the bag nonchalantly. “Aye?”95

“Well in this bag are three measures of ignation dust, which is extremely flammable and makes a nice little explosion. Nothing dangerous, of course, but quite effective for making fireshapes or for a disappearing act. Just light the bag, throw it down, and let it explode.”9696

“Amusing,” Whetu replied.97

Avalon looked at her. “What’s the matter? You’re not as calm as usual.”98

“I am… troubled,” Whetu replied. “Question me no more on the matter for I shall say naught.”99

“Very well, then,” Avalon said, replacing her bag into her pocket.100

The rest of their walk through the Sylvan Region was silent. After a long while, they reached the edge of the woods and found that the sun had nearly fallen below the horizon. Avalon was already tried from walking so far and seeing the sun’s position somehow made her wearier. Whetu led them to a small city a few yards away. The city had no more than ten buildings all neatly arranged connected by a sandy path. The smell of a blacksmith’s furnace permeated the air. The wooden sign stated that the city was named Hyperion. Barely two steps past the sign there was an inn – the Vates. It was two stories high and built from heavy stone and clay.101

“We will rest here,” Whetu commented. Avalon made no objections. 102